Photo courtesy of General Motors

Shopping for a 2012 hybrid vehicle and thinking about the 2012 Buick Regal eAssist sedan? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The 2012 Regal is one of two cars in the Buick line that comes with eAssist technology.  It includes a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder ECOTEC gasoline engine and an electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery pack, which powers the motor as well as the radio, climate control and other accessories. The motor provides a 15-horsepower boost and the technology permits the car to achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 25 MPG city and 36 MPG highway. There is also a start/stop technology that seamlessly shifts power from the gasoline engine to the electric motor and back, thus conserving fuel. Stepping off the throttle turns the gasoline engine off, stepping off the brake restarts the gasoline engine. In other words, you can coast using the electric motor, but it doesn’t power the drivetrain by itself. Other features include regenerative braking, which harvests the energy from the brakes and diverts it to the battery.

A Power Flow Display in the center of the instrument cluster shows the driver when the battery is charging, when the engine is in start/stop mode, and when the electric motor is providing a boost. An ECO gauge offers information to the driver to assist him or her to drive more efficiently. The 2012 Regal offers eAssist as an option. The 2013 Regal will feature eAssist standard in its base model. MSRP starts at $31,670.

Autos.al.com — 2012 Buick Regal Car Reviews, Ratings & Road Test

Autos.al.com refers to the car as a “light” hybrid. This means that the electric motor provides a boost of power instead of wholly powering the car as a regular hybrid does. The motor provides 15 horsepower of boost and 79 lb-ft of torque on demand.

They say that the exterior of the car offers a “curvy, aggressive and performance-oriented” look. Inside the instrument panel runs across from the driver’s to the passenger’s door panels. The sports seats are said to include firm bolsters.  A thick rim steering wheel and “ice blue” lights help set a “sportier mood” then previous Buicks.

They report that the car has a length of 190 inches and a wheelbase of about 108 inches making, it a little smaller than mid-sized cars like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. They also note that the Regal eAssist is “a bit more maneuverable” than the Camry and Accord. Still, the rear seat area has enough space to accommodate adults. Trunk space is said to be 14 cubic feet.

Safety features included in the car are electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and airbags. They say that the body is stiffer and more rigid than previous models which helps protect passengers inside the car and also helps with the ride and handling.

The car includes such standard features as a power driver’s seat; leather upholstery; Bluetooth; XM Satellite Radio; OnStar; 17-inch alloy wheels and “low rolling resistance” tires, which is supposed to assist with fuel economy. The car also includes features that help to lower the drag including an under body aerodynamic plate.

Detroit Free Press — eAssist’s light electrification gives LaCrosse, Regal more power and better fuel economy

The Detroit Free Press dubs the Regal an “enjoyable, sporty sedan.” They claim that the electric steering is “direct” and offers “good feedback,” and the suspension is good.  They say that the car “accelerated confidently” with the help of the eAssist technology.

They complained that there were problems with the voice recognition system, especially with iPhones, and they added that Buick said software patches will be available. They gave the car a four out of four star rating and concluded that people will buy the car because of fuel economy, styling and features. They identified “shortcomings” as the trunk size, no memory for the driver’s settings and iPhone compatibility.

Consumer Guide Auto –  2012 Buick Regal: Road Test

Consumer Guide Auto test drove the Regal with eAssist and compared it the other (non-eAssist) models. They found that the Regal’s acceleration, especially from a stop was a bit more powerful than the other engines due to the eAssist. Fuel economy of the eAssist was better than the other Regal models without the technology. They found ride quality was equal to the other models. Steering, handling and braking was at par with the other models.

They ruled that controls and gauges were unobstructed, but the markings on the gauges were small and therefore somewhat difficult to see. They also noted that there are a lot of buttons with which the driver has to become familiar. The climate control was easy to use but the use of other functions was not intuitive. They liked the redundancy of the controls on the navigation system but found that the driver had to stretch somewhat to reach the touchscreen.

They found the cabin to be “upscale,” but more sporty than plush. They liked the leather upholstery and there was satin-metal looking trim that spruced things up, but there was also hard plastic present. They found legroom and headroom to be good and the seats comfortable in the front portion of the cabin. Legroom was cramped and headroom was lacking in the rear. They found that the hinges of the trunk were intrusive and affected overall space.

Consumer Guide Auto rated each segment of the test drive on a scale of 1-10, giving the highest marks to the Regal’s value within its class, fuel economy, ride quality and front seat comfort. Lowest marks were given to its cargo room and back seat comfort. The car received a total score of 65.

2012 Buick Regal with eAssist Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• Comfortable front seats with good legroom
• Rides well
• Good fuel economy
• Solid feel
• Soft rear suspension
• Good acceleration

Dislikes:

• Inadequate headroom and legroom in rear
• Voice recognition system
• Memory for driver’s settings
• Trunk space and storage space for small items

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take? Leave a comment and help out the people who are researching this car!

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photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America

Shopping for a 2012 hybrid car and thinking about the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The 2012 Sonata Hybrid is a midsize sedan that competes in the family car category with the Ford Fusion and the Toyota Camry. It features a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine and Hyundai’s Blue Drive fully parallel hybrid system.  The powertrain generates 206 horsepower and achieves an EPA fuel economy rating of 40 MPG on the highway.  The car was introduced in the 2011 model year. The Hyundai Blue Link Telematics system, a three-piece moonroof,  a navigation system with a 7-inch touchscreen and HD radio are new for 2012.  MSRP starts at $25,850.

Cars.com — 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Cars.com reports that the comfort of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid matches the gasoline-only four-cylinder Sonata. The car offers a better battery pack and better mileage on the highway than its competition in the family car market, the Toyota Camry and the Ford Fusion. They add that “it looks cool, too.”

They say that the Sonata Hybrid looks “dramatically” different than the gasoline-only version due to a “radically” enlarged grille and LED headlights in the front.  The car is light, includes aerodynamic wheels and low-rolling-resistance tires, and flaps behind the grille that open or close depending on the speed of the car. This combines to give the Sonata Hybrid a co-efficient of drag rating of 0.25 Cd. They point out that this is better than the Camry Hybrid (0.27 Cd) and the Fusion Hybrid (0.33 Cd).

They note that the car features a lithium polymer battery, which is said to be better than the nickel-metal hydride batteries found on many hybrids. The polymer battery is also different than the popularly used lithium ion battery because it is smaller. Still, due to the battery, cargo space is reduced when compared to the regular Sonata, they said. They note that Hyundai chose a “traditional” six-speed automatic transmission over a continuously variable automatic transmission so that the driver of the car could enjoy a better driving experience.

Cars.com noted that when the Sonata Hybrid was not in the so-called “fuel-sipping mode” acceleration was “strong” and shifting was “crisp.” However, when the car was in “Blue mode” they commented that “The transmission didn’t seem to know what to do on steep inclines, and the engine whined unsettlingly on hilly roads.” However, they countered that the Blue mode is commonly used for city and highway driving — not on hilly roads. Under the proper conditions, the mode increases efficiency by 5 percent.

Edmunds.com — 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Edmunds identified the pros of the car to be high fuel economy; a comfortable and “handsome” cabin; smooth ride, lengthy warranty and good safety scores. They found the cons to be unrefined hybrid powertrain, clumsy braking response, and significant price increase compared to the regular Sonata. They also claim the fuel economy was not as good as the EPA numbers.

MotorTrend — First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

MotorTrend notes that the lithium polymer battery is lighter than the 2012 Camry and Fusion Hybrids, and is smaller and more durable than the lithium-ion battery. Moreover,  they note that the six-speed engine clutch “…seamlessly engages and disengages at all engine speeds to imperceptibly deliver gas, gas-electric, and full-electric drive modes.” They conclude that the car does not have any conspicuous “hybridness” — such as whirring CVT and “grabby” brakes.

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• Battery pack
• Good mileage
• Looks “cool”
• Good aerodynamic features
• Good acceleration
• Good shifting
• Comfortable cabin
• Smooth ride
• Good safety rating
• No “hybridness”

Dislikes:

• Unrefined hybrid powertrain
• “Clumsy” braking
• EPA fuel economy numbers overestimated
• Price compared to all-gas model

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take?

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photo courtesy of Acura

Considering a new 2013 hybrid and wondering about the 2013 Acura ILX hybrid? Here’s a roundup of what we know about the vehicle so far. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The 2013 ILX hybrid isn’t totally a secret. We didn’t have to contract the CIA to find out about it. In fact, a concept of the car was displayed at a number of auto shows including the 2012 Chicago Auto Show held in February. Acura’s website is showing videos of the car and it’s due out in late May. If you want to get in on the ground floor, so to speak, there is a page on the Acura website where you can sign up to receive details on the vehicle before it is released. According to Acura, the registration commits you to nothing and you can opt out of the process at any time. Pricing for the hybrid ILX starts at $28,900.

Car and Driver — 2013 Acura ILX: More than a Civic by another name?

Car and Driver said that the 2013 Acura ILX takes its cues from the Honda Civic. It comes with a choice of three engines including a hybrid powertrain taken from the Civic Hybrid. The 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine gets a boost from a 20-horsepower electric motor and there is also a continuously variable automatic transmission. They say that the total system generates 111 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, which is the exact specs for the Honda Civic Hybrid system. This car also includes a stop/start technology that shuts off the engine at stop lights.

EPA rates the fuel economy as 35 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. That proves to be lacking when compared to the Civic hybrid, which has fuel economy of 44 in the city and 44 on the highway. Car and Driver speculates that the car is probably heavier than the Civic due to more content, better materials, and more sound suspension. They caution that because of the weight, the ILX hybrid won’t perform like the Civic Hybrid. Car and Driver notes that it is longer (179.1-inches), lower (55.6-inches) and wider (70.6- inches) than the Civic.

Kelley Blue Book — 2013 Acura ILX: 2012 Chicago Auto Show

Kelley Blue Book suggests that Acura is targeting the so-called Gen Y buyers who want to move up to an entry-level luxury car. The car is the first Acura model to include a hybrid powertrain as an option.  According to KBB, the front-wheel-drive, four-door sedan has a “well-appointed” cabin with a lot of creature comforts like keyless entry that includes remote start, SMS text messaging, stability assist, anti-lock disc brakes, and airbags for the front of the car as well as both sides.

Cars.com — 2013 Acura ILX

Cars.com points out that the seats are covered with cloth and the front seats include side bolsters made of imitation leather. The car allows for smartphone integration. The navigation system is extra, but there is a color display that resembles the Honda i-MID system. They said that the center control area  is easy to use and features a multifunction controller knob. They add that the car includes such safety features as front, side and side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes and an electronic stability control that includes traction control.

Inhabitat.com — Acura Debuts Its First Hybrid, the 2013 Acura ILX

Inhabitat.com notes that Acura is offering the model as a means for consumers to enter into the Acura luxury car line. It is the first ever hybrid for Acura. They also point out that the car achieves 111 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque between 1,000 and 3,000 rpm. They say that when the driver applies the brakes or when the car is stopped, the gasoline engine shuts off for better fuel economy and to reduce emissions.  They add that a Pandora Internet Radio interface and an SMS text messaging system is included. There are also packages available for an additional cost. The Technology Package features a surround sound audio system and a navigation system with real time traffic information. The Premium Package includes leather seats, heated front seats, a rear-view camera and a 360 watt sound system.

UPDATE:

Since we first wrote this article, several test drives have been published:

Road & Track — 2013 Acura ILX: First Drive

Vehix.com — 2012 Acura ILX First Drive

Daily Tech — Driving Impressions: 2013 Acura ILX Base, Manual, and Hybrid

What’s your take on this hybrid? Leave a comment and help out the people who are researching this car!

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photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales, USA

Shopping for a hybrid vehicle and thinking about the 2012 Toyota Prius v hybrid wagon? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The Toyota Prius was the first hybrid to really get the attention of the American public when it was introduced in the 1990s. Now the Japanese manufacturer has expanded the line to include a plug-in hybrid, a wagon known as the v, and a smaller model called the Prius c.

The Prius V has an EPA fuel efficiency rating of 44 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. MSRP is $26,400.

Road & Track — 2012 Toyota Prius v: 2011 Detroit Auto Show

No doubt you are wondering what the “v” means in the 2012 Toyota Prius v. No, it is not the roman numeral five. Rather it stands for “versatility,” according to Toyota. Road & Track notes that this Prius version is bigger than the regular Prius and includes “ample” seating for five people and a 60/40 fold-down rear seat. The wedge shape of the silhouette assists the vehicle to cut through the air at a very efficient 0.29 coefficient of drag. That contributes to the fuel economy of the car and also helps to reduce wind noise, they say.

Road & Track adds that the Prius v features four driving modes — Normal, Electric (EV), Economy (ECO), and Power (PWR). The car has a push button start and includes Hill Start Assist, Stability and traction control, a back-up camera, and Toyota’s Entune infotainment system that provide entertainment, navigation and information. Mobile apps are available for the Entune which offers such things as the best fuel prices available, restaurant recommendation, live traffic updates, stock reports and sports scores.

Automotive Trends — 2012 Toyota Prius V: Can a Bigger Hybrid Actually Be Better?

It is not surprising that Automotive Trends says more of the same when comparing the v to the Prius. However, they note that this model does have a little more cargo space and has a little bit lower fuel economy. There is no third-row seat here due to the shape of the vehicle.

They liked the “gargantuan” dual sunroof which includes a cool feature where the sunshade automatically closes whenever the doors are locked. They presume this is to keep the car cooler and reduce energy consumption by the climate control when the vehicle is started.

They say that the drive is similar to the Prius. However, they complained that the steering is “very non-communicative” making the car less entertaining to drive, but the ride is smooth due to suspension tuning for pitch and bounce. They were not overly fond of the dash mounted gear shift that does not include a “park” setting. Instead, there is a separate button on the dashboard for this action.

Automotive Trends identified the “Good” to be the wagon’s versatility and styling as well as the fuel economy; they found the “Bad” to be the “uncommunicative” steering and sounds from the engine compartment. Despite this, their verdict was that “The Prius v proves that even in the world of hybrids, bigger is better.”

Consumer Reports — Behind the wheel: 2012 Toyota Prius v wagon

Consumer Reports says the car is practical and has good fuel economy. They note that it is 6-inches longer, 3.3-inches taller and about 1-inch wider — and has 60 percent more cargo space than the regular Prius.

They also quote Toyota to explain that the larger v has similar acceleration as the Prius because of lower final-drive gearing which provides quicker take off from a start. CR notes that the Prius v earned 44 MPG overall in their tests, which is the best of any small SUV or wagon they have tested. The next closest was the VW Jetta TDI wagon at 36 MPG.

Toyota Prius V Review Conclusion

Here’s a summary of the reviewers likes and dislikes:

Likes:

• Great fuel economy
• Roomy
• Good visibility from cabin
• More cargo space than the Prius
• Dual sunroof
• Smooth ride
• Versatility
• Styling

Dislikes:

• Steering
• Gearshift doesn’t have “park”

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take?

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photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz USA

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel car and thinking about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC crossover diesel? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

It is the diesel turbo engine of the Mercedes R350 that excites consumers. The 3.0 liter turbodiesel V6 engine generates 210 horsepower and the vehicle has a maximum towing capacity of 3500 lbs. It gets 18 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. MSRP is $53,840.

Kelly Blue Book — 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Review

Kelley Blue Book starts out with a comment on the design of the vehicle:  “It’s definitely not a minivan nor is it really a crossover (even though that’s what Mercedes-Benz calls it). Rather, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R-Class has staked its territory as a no-nonsense rolling monument to practicality.” They like the diesel engine, noting: “the 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC is quick enough to keep you from lamenting the diesel engine…. This great engine proves the viability of the right diesel in the right machine.”

They write that it was a “joy to see second row seats with such comfort and adjustability.” Moreover, they called the interior and its amenities “top notch.”  “The cabin is spacious, as are the second- and third-row seats. Rear-seat passengers have seat adjustments, cup holders and an optional dual-screen DVD player. Elegant wood trim along with the well-integrated monitor of the COMMAND system goes a long way toward keeping Mom and Dad sane.”

They note that some may not like the appearance of the angular hatch of the vehicle, but that the benefit of easy loading and unloading may outweigh any concerns.

AOL Autos — Mercedes-Benz R-Class Expert Review

AOL Autos also like the roominess of the interior: “The cabin is still a comfortable place to spend a road trip no matter where you’re sitting. Mercedes-Benz is particularly proud of the fact that the vehicle’s third row is actually functional, and it’s true that full-grown adults who are less than five-foot-eleven can fit in the way back seats without suffering a cramped neck or bruised knees.” However, they weren’t crazy about the position of the navigation screen, saying it was too low, and the position of the cruise control lever, which they called awkward.

They call the diesel engine “quiet” and praise its power: “In diesel dress, the epic 400 lb-ft of torque makes up for any horsepower shortcoming, and the crossover easily builds speed as a result.” As far as handling goes, they were disappointed in the vehicle’s steering, but said the braking was excellent.

Car and Driver — 2011 Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTec

Car and Driver noted, “The diesel’s fuel-economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 24 highway easily trump the gas V-6’s 14 and 19. We achieved a respectable 20 mpg in the BlueTec.”

They also pointed out that the R350 BlueTEC includes the “old-style” Mercedes steering and added that the steering is “heavily weighted with a large on-center dead spot. It’s relaxing, and we appreciate the dead spot because of the tremendous amount of body roll that accompanies steering inputs. That said, the R350 BlueTec did manage to improve on the R500’s skidpad performance, from 0.75 g to 0.80. Braking from 70 mph takes 177 feet—pretty good for a six-seater—but pedal feel is noticeably absent.” They complained about the noise from the suspension and that the chassis sent “tremors through the interior.”

C&D concluded: “No doubt, the R350’s configuration endows it with great ability to move people and gear. But the unruly ride strips the diesel R-class of what should be its greatest asset: the ability to do so in supreme comfort.”

Road & Track –  2011 Mercedes-Benz R350 Bluetec 4Matic and R350 4Matic – Driving Impressions

Road & Track calls the R350 a “capable people hauler.” Like the other reviewers, they liked the roomy interior and the diesel engine’s efficient power. But they were not too pleased with the steering:  “I was disappointed in the lackluster low-speed steering feel. It was heavy, which in and of itself isn’t bad. But in hairpins, at residential speeds, the steering wouldn’t come back to center. It was as if the front wheels had no self-centering force. Although this is a minor quibble, especially considering the R’s pedestrian role, it’s one that needs to be mentioned.

2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 BlueTEC Clean Diesel Crossover Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• Comfortable seating
• BlueTEC diesel engine
• Comfortable and adjustable second row seats
• Top-notch interior

Dislikes:

• Angular hatch appearance
• Position of navigation screen
• Steering
• Ride

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take?

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photo courtesy of Volkswagen of America

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel car and thinking about the Volkswagen Jetta TDI? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The Jetta experienced a redesign for the 2011 model year.  The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Diesel is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel inline 4-cylinder that generates 140 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. VW also offers an optional six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It has an EPA fuel economy rating of 30 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway. Standard equipment includes a navigation system, Bluetooth, iPod input, Satellite Radio, side and curtain air bags, and stability and traction control. MSRP starts at $22,775.

Car and Driver — 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan TDI Diesel

Car and Driver noted that the Jetta is larger since its redesign in the 2011 model year and that the base price of the car was reduced. They mark the highs as a roomy back seat, good fuel economy, efficient diesel engine, a good base price, and a sports-sedan handling and feel. They identify low to be the interior, which they say lacks the “richness” of the previous version.

They conclude, “Despite cost cutting, the Jetta is still a solid-feeling sedan with good steering and handling.”

Cars.com — 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

Cars.com reported that the standard manual transmission features stiffer clutch pedals than any other compact car they have driven. They also cautioned that they stalled more than once, but not from a standstill: “Every stall happened at low speeds when I thought 2nd gear was called for, but the engine bogged and stalled. Once I started keeping it in 1st gear longer, the stalls stopped.”

They found the car to be “punchy” after driving it.  “The Jetta TDI moves away from lights and passes quickly. There wasn’t lag at any point, and it always felt like there was more power on tap,” they said. They also said that the car’s performance made it fun to drive. This is because the car has more torque than other cars in its classification due to the diesel engine.

They liked the steering too. However, they did comment that it required more effort. “The payoff is that it also gives you more feedback and you feel more connected to what the car is doing… It’s my favorite steering in this car class.”

Handling also passed muster with them. “It feels planted to the road, and the suspension and chassis are well-tuned. The Jetta doesn’t squat or roll as much as others in this segment do, so it feels level going through turns. The suspension absorbs bumps very well for a small car, and that gives you a sense of security at high speeds. The road doesn’t beat up and toss the car around,” they said.

They noted that the car is not as “light and sprightly” as the previous version.

C&D concluded, “To my mind, the new Jetta isn’t a dilution of the previous model, it’s simply a slightly different take on the car — but the spirit of the machine remains.”

Edmunds.com — 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

What jumped out to Edmunds was the roomy interior and that the car was more affordable.

Their review identified the pros to be a spacious interior and trunk, that the car was well-equipped and featured a smart electronics interface, and that the diesel engine was fuel efficient.

They defined the cons to be “lackluster interior materials, sluggish throttle with automatic, and numb steering.”

They cautioned that the newly designed Jetta may be lacking in what it had in the previous models because the German manufacturer wants to attract more entry-level buyers. The car has been downgraded somewhat and the price has been reduced substantially. “The Volkswagen Jetta once presented a good middle ground between Japanese compact sedans and entry-level German luxury. It offered a sturdy chassis, tasteful interior materials and enough sport to make the package lively around town. Most buyers felt the premium quality was worth the extra price of admission. But Volkswagen thought the premium price discouraged an even greater amount of shoppers. So last year it made its redesigned Jetta a centerpiece of an aggressive new pricing strategy,” they reported.

On interior design and special features, Edmunds wrote, “ We particularly like the available touchscreen stereo interface and its redundant dial knob that’s ideal for controlling an iPod. The associated navigation system, however, is a bit of a letdown due to the small screen and limited amount of displayed information.”

Their driving impressions were pretty good. “Though it’s notably more expensive than the 2.5-equipped SE and SEL, the TDI is a keen choice thanks to its meaty low-end torque and frugal fuel economy. The manual would again be a preferred choice, though the [automatic], with its automated and manual modes, works well as a best-of-both-worlds choice,” they said.

2012 Volkswagen Jetta Clean Diesel TDI Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• Roomy back seat
• Good fuel economy
• Efficient diesel engine
• Good base price
• Sports-sedan handling and feel
• Good steering
• Punchy
• Great torque
• Cruising range

Dislikes:

• Interior not as rich
• Stiff clutch pedals
• Stalling problems with manual transmission
• Handling not as light and sprightly

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take?

Leave a comment and help out the people who are researching this car!

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photo courtesy of Volkswagen of America

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel car and thinking about the Volkswagen Passat TDI? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The 2.0 turbocharged diesel inline 4 engine in the 2012 Volkswagen Passat has a dazzling EPA fuel economy rating of 31 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. Although many may find that it lacks punch on initial acceleration, it’s been clocked at 9.1 seconds in the 0-60 mph test.

The Diesel Driver — 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI SEL Review and Report

 The Diesel Driver wrote, “I found the Passat TDI to be an excellent Autobahn cruiser.  Expansion joints, bumps, and potholes go practically unnoticed. Passengers will not be disturbed. It is Verboten.”

It was the torque that they really liked. “Ultimately, it’s the torque of the diesel engine we’re after, not the horsepower, and the omnipresent 236 pound-feet available to the driver made overtaking on highways something to look forward to,” they continued.

They called the interior of the Passat “high end.” “Fit and finish is excellent and outclasses what one finds in other VWs.  The comfortable seats with suede seating surfaces are quite suitable for backpain-free longer drives,” they praised. They also noted that the car is a little longer and that helps with additional legroom in the front and rear.

They did find a problem with a missing safety feature. “…the lack of a telematics solution that includes ACN (automatic collision notification) and SOS/emergency calling is a glaring omission.” But they were happy to report that Volkswagen had signed an agreement with Hughes Telematics to provide those services starting with the 2013 model year.

They conclude that the SEL Premium diesel model is “$755 less than the petrol variant and, in addition to these savings, the buyer gets 35% better fuel economy (43 mpg/5.47 l/100 km versus 28 mpg/8.4 l/100 km) while giving up a mere 22 pound-feet of torque. While the V-6 has more horsepower (280 v. 140), it’s still a fair match.  While the V-6 will clearly be appreciably faster off the line, the TDI can go 800 miles (1,287 km) between fill-ups.”

Car and Driver — 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI SE

Car and Driver liked the torque of the car as well as the EPA fuel economy ratings and they found the cruising range of the car when the 18.5 gallon gas tank is taken into account to be 670 miles.

They cautioned, “If you plan on purchasing a Passat TDI, order it with the manual transmission. The dual-clutch automatic is an awkward match with the diesel engine.”

They found good and bad things about the ride. “…the TDI is an excellent highway cruiser. … Cornering is less rewarding…. The TDI feels nose-heavy, and the steering is slow to respond to driver inputs. But the brakes offer easy modulation and a commendable 178-foot 70-to-0 stopping distance (13 feet shorter than the six-cylinder).”

C&D noted that the initial acceleration could be better. “A 0-to-60 time of 8.6 seconds is decent, too, but the quarter-mile figure of 16.8 seconds at 83 mph reflects the patience required to cope with the car’s meager 140 horsepower.”

They praised the interior trim, including a brushed aluminum-look trim along the beltline, soft touch plastic that covered the dashboard,  and the touchscreen radio.

They concluded, “Meanwhile, the TDI quietly achieves something we have yet to experience in a hybrid — better-than-promised fuel economy. It’s the sort of thing we wish other car companies were eager to copy.”

MotorWeek — 2012 Volkswagen Passat: Road Test

MotorWeek began their piece with this, “In the highly competitive mid-size family sedan segment, the Volkswagen Passat has always been a fun-to-drive choice. But, its too-small-size and too-big-price have kept sales more in the enthusiast realm, more so than in the mainstream. But for 2012, Volkswagen is looking to change that with a bigger, less expensive Passat that’s got Camry and Accord squarely in its sights.”

The new Passat is longer than the previous model.  “The expansion allows for a huge trunk that holds 15.9-cubic feet of cargo; that’s over 1-cubic foot more than the Honda Accord. And rear seat backs fold 60/40 to accommodate long and bulky items,” they discovered.

They found that the interior continued to hold the “classic VW sporting flare,” that space was not an issue, the seats were “incredibly comfortable” and the gauges were big and well-hooded. They also liked the Fender audio system. They described the exterior as “more classy than flashy.”

When it comes to the engine, they stated: “our choice for everyday is the available 2.0-liter TDI turbo diesel.” And they described the diesel as a “joy” to drive. “While cornering is pretty solid, the ride is on the soft side, and things can get a little floaty over big bumps. Steering however, is light and delightfully quick, helping the Passat to feel smaller than it is,” they said.

MotorWeek concluded: “It’s roomy, affordable, and can drive rings around Camry and Accord. We like it a lot.”

2012 VW Passat Clean Diesel TDI Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• The price
• Great fuel economy
• Excellent cruiser
• Responsive steering
• Solid chassis
• Solid and predictable brakes
• Great torque
• High-end interior
• Excellent fit and finish
• Comfortable seats
• Decent space front and rear
• Quiet
• Great range
• Larger than previous models
• Fender Audio System

Dislikes:

• Lacks telematic safety features
• Dual-clutch automatic awkward match with diesel engine
• Cornering “less rewarding”
• Feels nose heavy
• Slowish acceleration
• Bumpy shifts

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photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz USA

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel SUV and thinking about the Mercedes ML350 BlueTEC? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The Mercedes-Benz ML350 M-Class SUV has been redesigned for 2012. Under its hood is a redesigned 3.0 liter V-6 turbo-diesel engine that generates 240 horsepower — that’s an increase of 30 horses from the previous model. The redesigned ML350 is about 1-inch longer and half an inch wider than the previous model. Cargo space measures  7 cubic feet more than before. It features 4MATIC all-wheel drive and gets 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. Base price for the diesel is about $50,490.

Car and Driver – 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-class ML350 BlueTEC

C&D discusses much-needed changes including a repositioning of the turn signal/wiper stalk and the cruise control command. Still, they complained that “you’ll still find yourself flicking at the column-mounted gear selector whenever you desire wipers. It’s annoying.”

They report that due to the addition of high insulation glazing and sealing, the car is very quiet. They also found the ride is “cushy” and the “suspension travel feels endless.”  They also praised the off-road ride as better than the earlier ML350. “Over hill and dirty dale, the long-travel suspension, the silky dampers, and the rock-solid platform conspire to improve the experience,” they said. In addition the diesel engine is given an assist for the better off-road experience. “The diesel engine definitely is an ally—it’s among the most velvety oil-burners ever installed in a passenger car. No clattder, no soot, no odor, no tactile evidence to reveal its baser origins,” they comment. However, they were somewhat disturbed at the weight of the new ML350, stating that the SUV “feels massive, a little slow-witted, and somewhat resistant to course corrections.”

C&D liked the efficiency of the turbo-diesel and the “loads” of safety equipment. They also praised the improved interior and “more modern” exterior. They identified the low as being the sticker shock and they labeled it as “a little boring.”

They conclude, “If you’re looking for driving gratification or personality, well, it will have to derive from the M-class’s luxurious fittings and from its soothing soundlessness.”

MotorTrend  - First Drive Review: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC

MotorTrend begins with praise of the BlueTEC diesel engine. “Truth is, when you’re hauling people, gear, and 5000 pounds of luxury SUV, diesel engines make a lot of sense,” they say. “The Bluetec mill in question is also one of the smoother diesel engines we’ve experienced… And all the while, fuel economy is estimated to the tune of 20/25 mpg city/highway, which equates to a 3-mpg gain over the gas-powered version.”

They say the cargo capacity doesn’t disappoint — more than 36 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 71 cubic feet when the seats are folded down. They also liked the shape of the cargo space, with minimal intrusion from the wheel wells.

They also loved the all-wheel drive. “(T)he all-wheel-drive sport ‘ute also is among the top in its class when it comes to driving experience. There are few other midsize SUVs that deliver the blend of comfort and sport the ML does.” They also mentioned that the ML “remained highly controllable and more responsive than many others in this class” and that brakes were “always solid and easy to modulate.”

MotorWeek – Road Tests: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC

The review begins, “Over a decade and a half ago, when Mercedes-Benz announced that they would not only start building a luxury SUV, but assemble it here in America, most people thought they were crazy. Well, after two generations of setting the pace for luxury utilities, it’s safe to say the Mercedes-Benz M-class has been a success. Now, with an all-new third gen ML, Mercedes is addressing a few areas they felt still needed improvement.”

They really liked the interior. “(T)he overall quality of materials is greatly improved. Fit and finish, an early bone of contention, is also solidly up a big notch.” However, they still complain that  the Mercedes COMMAND system and radio controls leaves them “more frustrated than satisfied.” They mention that rear seat room is adequate for three passengers and the seats are “very comfortable.”

They were able to achieve a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds and they claimed that the diesel’s “massive torque” helped. They also liked the transmission, turbo power, handling and braking. “With the barest amount of turbo lag, our diesel likes to rev, as it made its way to the end of the quarter mile in 15.4-seconds at 89 miles-per-hour. Handling feels very solid and composed, more like a top-heavy S-class than an SUV.” MotorWeek concludes, “The 2012 ML350 is a true premium SUV. And, even with a few quirks, this made in the U.S.A. luxury Ute is one classy ride.”

2012 Mercedes GL350 BlueTEC Diesel SUV Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• Quiet
• Cushy ride
• Suspension
• Off-road ride
• Efficiency and power of turbo-diesel engine
• Strong and solid
• Improved interior
• Loads of safety equipment
• Sufficient cargo space
• Adequate rear seat room
• Comfortable seats

Dislikes:

• Location of wiper stalk “annoying”
• Vehicle’s weight
• Limited driving gratification
• A little boring
• Frustrating controls for Command System and Radio

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photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz USA

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel car and thinking about the Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC sedan? Here’s a summary of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

Perhaps the most eye-opening news about the 2012 Mercedes E350  is the 3.0 liter BlueTEC diesel engine, which generates 210 horsepower, sprints from 0 to 60 in 9.0 seconds and has a fuel economy rating of 21 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The E350 diesel comes only in rear-wheel drive with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The MSRP runs from $50,490 to $88,900.

AOL Autos – 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Expert Review

AOL Autos reports that “We particularly like the diesel-powered E350 BlueTEC sedan. Mercedes’ V6 turbodiesel is the smoothest, quietest diesel engine available, so virtually all the smoky, clattering drawbacks of more traditional diesel power are gone (though the oily diesel smell during fill-ups remains). Performance is virtually identical the gasoline-powered E350…”

Leftlane – 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC

The reviewers at Leftlane said, “What makes the E350 BlueTEC different from other models in the E-Class range is the 3.0-liter diesel V6 under the hood. Though its output of 210 horsepower isn’t impressive, the motor also produces a mighty 400 lb-ft of torque from just 1600 rpm. Hooked up to a polished seven-speed automatic transmission, the mill facilitates effortless passing while also returning notable fuel economy: 22 mpg in the city and a superb 33 mpg on the highway.” They also report that the E350 has a new powertrain for 2012.

They also note that “Like other E-Class models, the E350 BlueTEC recently received a complete redesign covering both the exterior and interior. Outside, the car’s styling could best be described as edgy traditionalism: there are more hard edges and surface creases than on previous models, but overall the look is unmistakably Mercedes Benz.”

Describing the interior, the article noted that “The cabin is a comfortable place for five occupants to spend time, boasting sumptuous seats, genuine wood trim and high levels of fit and finish.”

Those of you who are concerned with safety, don’t be. After all, this is a Mercedes-Benz. They wrote, “Mercedes-Benz has long been known for its safety features, and the E350 BlueTEC will only add to that reputation. In addition to ABS and ESP stability control, the car boasts nine supplemental restraints including two-stage front air bags, a knee air bag for the driver and pelvic air bags which work together with curtain and side air bags to provide extra protection for front occupants in dangerous side-impact collisions.” Other standard features include an Attention Assist system that alerts the driver when he is beginning to get drowsy.

Leftlane concludes by mentioning that the E350 is the only diesel-powered sedan in the luxury midsize category. Readers who are interested in similar economy could research the Infiniti M Hybrid or the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

MotorTrend – 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 BLUETEC Sedan

MotorTrend pointed out the new features of the car in their most recent overview: “The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class receives a few minor revisions mostly to the interior, including a new and redesigned steering wheel, a color instrument display panel, and a media interface that is relocated to the center console. LED daytime running lamps are now standard on all E-Class models. Non-AMG variants are fitted with a new, more fuel-efficient, seven-speed automatic transmission.”

In their review of the E350 the previous year, MotorTrend wrote: “The E350 Bluetec is not a blast to drive, period. In fact, the driving experience is actually quite dull.” They describe the acceleration as “lackluster” and the brakes and handling as “middle of the road.” But they add that the car is not intended to be a sport sedan and that the BlueTEC’s reason for being is its fuel economy. In nearly 900 miles of driving during their road test “the oil-burning Benz achieved an average of 26.8 mpg and needed a total of two fuel stops.” They also like that the diesel model is only $1500 more than the gas version.

Two other minor critiques were the “cheap-looking plastic pop-up door locks” and the fact that folding rear seats were optional instead of standard. They conclude by saying “Given its fuel economy and ability to effortlessly eat up highway miles, it would certainly make a great road-trip car.”

2012 Mercedes E350 BlueTEC Diesel Review Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• fuel economy
• effortless passing
• highway driving
• luxury interior
• safety features
• price and performance compared to the gas E350

Dislikes:

• Lackluster acceleration
• Dull driving experience
• Folding rear seats optional

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photo courtesy of BMW of North America

Shopping for a 2012 clean diesel and thinking about the BMW X5 xDrive35d SUV? Here’s a round up of major reviews of the vehicle to help you decide. Be sure to leave a comment at the bottom if you have questions, or something to add!

The BMW X5 xDrive35d  experienced a major refreshening in 2011 and, although some options have become standard, not much has changed for the 2012 model year. Of course, it is the  diesel engine that attracts interest in this car. It sprints from 0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds and fuel economy is attractive at 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. MSRP starts at about $52,000.

The Diesel Driver — BMW X5 xDrive35d Review

The Diesel Driver touts the diesel engine on the xDrive 35d. They say, “While the 335d is the embodiment of the Ultimate Driving Machine, the X5 xDrive35d, which competes with the Audi Q7 TDI, Mercedes-Benz GL320 BlueTEC, and the Volkswagen Touareg, is the performance leader in this crowd.”

They add that the BMW X5 xDrive35d is “virtually indistinguishable in appearance from the 3.0-liter petrol model – until you lift the hood. Peer inside and you’ll see an all-aluminum, twin-turbo, 3.0-liter oil-burning I-6 that… provides the X5 xDrive35d owner with the performance of a V-8 with the fuel economy of a four-cylinder.”

They also lavished praise to the available space within the cabin saying, “The interior has capacious amounts of space for its passengers, as befitting a car of this size. Thanks to the electric shifter and parking brake control, there’s an impressive amount of storage in the center console as well as a very large glove compartment.”

The Diesel Driverliked the handling: “we found the X5’s handling to be exceptionally sure-footed. It benefits from the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system, which constantly adapts to changing road conditions, as well as multiple electronic systems including Electronic Damping Control (which controls body roll) and dynamic stability control…” They said it was a joy to drive on the open road and city streets. They note that the engine noise was noticeable at low speeds, but referred to the noise as a “pleasant clamor.” They added that the sound was “…virtually inaudible at speed.”

They ended their review mentioning that the diesel is about $5,000 less than the V-8 version of this model, and it has a longer cruising range of almost 600 miles.

Edmunds.com —  2012 BMW X5 Diesel

Edmunds praises the “athletic handling” of the car as well as its “potent and efficient engines; luxurious and comfortable interior; huge list of features; steadfast high-speed stability. However, it was not perfect. “Standard steering is stiff at low speeds; ride may be firm for some; hefty price,” they listed as cons. The vehicle includes Bluetooth, iPod input, side curtain airbags, stability and traction control. Available as options are a navigation system, third row seats and DVD player.

Road & Track — 2012 BMW X5

Road & Track was succinct in its praise of the X5 xDrive35d saying, “We think most owners will be quite happy toting 6 passengers with the turbodiesel X5 xDrive35d’s 425 lb.-ft. of torque, although the $1700 optional third-row seating is a tad expensive and only for use by children.”

Popular Mechanics —  Year-Long Review of the BMW X5 xDrive35d

Popular Mechanics was short and sweet concerning its praise of the 35d:  “By way of breaking in the X5 xDrive35d, we hopped a flight to BMW’s factory in Spartanburg, S.C., and returned to our New York offices in style—and in just over 11 hours, averaging 60 mph and 26.7 mpg, impressive for a large, feature-laden five-passenger wagon (seven with the optional third row). First impressions are all positive…. the 425 lb-ft of torque at 1750 rpm provides a 0-to-60-mph time of under 7 seconds. Best of all, the big Bimmer’s odometer currently shows 1020 miles, and we’ve only refueled it once.”

2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d diesel SUV Summary

In conclusion, the consensus appears to be:

Likes:

• xDrive 35d is “performance leader”
• Impressive torque
• Price compared to V8 version
• 600-mile cruising range, 30% better than the V8
• Athletic handling
• Efficient engine
• Luxurious, spacious interior

Dislikes:

• Some engine noise at slow speeds
• Steering stiff at low speeds
• Ride too firm for some
• Third row only comfortable for children

Do you own this car, or have you driven one? What’s your take?

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