Automotive Reviews
Road tests
2012 Honda Pilot
Jan 21st
Honda’s Pilot comes off as family-values motoring at its finest. It’s big and purposeful, with a blocky design that’s more curb appeal-friendly than a minivan’s but enough smooth edges that it’s not mistaken for a self-indulgent, fuelish SUV. Those slab sides also project an impression of strength and a willingness to protect the seven passengers within.
And that’s just from the outside. An environment-friendly 3.5 liter V6 engine, generous safety and comfort features and improved fuel economy for 2012 are on hand to put the Pilot near the top of any family’s list. More >
2012 Toyota Corolla
Jan 10th
“Beige” is fast becoming automotive-enthusiast shorthand for “dull and uninteresting appliance, so some might think it fitting that the 2012 Toyota Corolla that arrived in my driveway was painted Sandy Beach Metallic. You’ve probably already guessed that’s a fancy name for a metallic beige color.
The Corolla makes no apologies for being a driving appliance, though, and it doesn’t need to. The sturdy, reliable Corolla is the Maytag of automotive appliances not matter what color it is, with a well-deserved reputation for drama-free ownership. For 2012, the Corolla is largely unchanged after its 2011 refreshing. Toyota’s added a few features to the standard-equipment list and improved the sound systems, and left everything else be.
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2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T
Dec 20th
It’s not quite a Cinderella story, because the Hyundai Sonata’s been getting steadily better for the past decade or so. The most recent evolution is certainly the most eye-catching, though, thanks to a new, dynamic face and extravagant styling.
After twenty-three years in the North American market, the Sonata seems to have finally developed a personality, and it’s cutting-edge. The Sonata features dramatic, sporty lines, fuel-efficient powertrains and dramatic improvements in road manners and comfort. Hyundai has expanded the Sonata lineup to include a hybrid, and there’s a turbocharged version as well. More >