2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Bottom Line
The 2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is mechanically the same as the 2010 Volkswagen Passat Sedan, and like the Sedan is now only offered in a single Komfort trim, with a 200-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. For extensive coverage of both models, including TheCarConnection.com's Bottom Line and Full Review, along with how the Wagon sizes up as an SUV alternative, please visit our page on the 2010 VW Passat Sedan.
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2010 Subaru Forester
TheCarConnection.com has read through a number of competitive reviews to bring you a survey of the best as part of our coverage of the 2010 Subaru Forester. Additionally, our editorial team has brought firsthand driving impressions of the Forester, presented in a Bottom Line assessment of how it matches up with other crossover vehicles.
Likes
Better styling
Carlike dynamics
Constant all-wheel drive
Quiet cabin ambience
Dislikes
Outdated four-speed auto
No manual option on XT turbocharged model
Unappealing cabin plastics
Derived in part from the Subaru Impreza, the Forester blends a useful, cargo-friendly body with the automaker's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. The Subaru Forester helped pioneer the crossover segment when it was launched back in 1998. The original model was essentially a taller, more rugged wagon that combined carlike handling with a pseudo-SUV body.
Last year the Forester saw a complete redesign, and the new Forester is a bit larger and more sophisticated in appearance. The 2010 Subaru Forester has a familiar wagonlike shape, but it's no longer as tall and boxy--it's sleeker from the outside. Inside, the Forester inherits a swoopier design from the larger Tribeca, with an upright dash that flows smoothly around to the doors, yet the center stack of controls is quite upright and straightforward.
Overall, the Forester's styling leaves a lot to be desired, but in terms of handling and dynamics, it's hard to beat. Handling is one of the Forester's strong points. With the standard 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, you'll find reasonably quick acceleration with the five-speed manual transmission, but it's hampered slightly by the wide ratios of the four-speed automatic. XT variants get a turbocharged four-cylinder with 224 horsepower and 226 pound-feet of torque, but with only the four-speed auto, it's not as enjoyable as it could be.
The 2010 Forester has a roomy interior that's actually good enough for four full-size adults, with the capability to fit three across in back in a pinch. The backseat folds flat, and the Forester has a lower cargo floor than some of the other vehicles in this class, lending a roomier feel and easier loading. Yet the Forester has 8.7 inches of ground clearance--especially useful for negotiating deep snow or climbing up a modest trail to a camping spot. All the while, the Forester feels much more refined than previous models, yet road noise can be obtrusive on some surfaces, and it's certainly not quiet. Also, the Forester's interior materials and trims--especially the unremarkable dash plastics--are a weakness.
Safety is another area where the 2010 Subaru Forester really shines, however. After all, the vehicle has scored top marks in federal government testing. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the Forester its best rating of "good" in its frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests. On top of that, the vehicle comes with a long list of standard safety features, including anti-lock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags.
The 2010 Subaru Forester comes very well-equipped with comfort features, and even the base 2.5X gets standard cruise control, full power accessories, air conditioning, automatic headlights, keyless entry, a tilt steering column, a trip computer, and a four-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. If you're willing to spend, the options list isn't surprising, but it doesn't lack any major items either. Available are a 10-way adjustable power driver's seat, steering-wheel audio controls, and a touchscreen navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Subaru Forester may not be as powerful or well-equipped as its rivals, but it really shines in its more carlike dynamics and superior handling.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Subaru Forester, also consider:
- Dodge Journey
- Honda CR-V
- Nissan Rogue
- Toyota RAV4
Reason Why:
The class leader remains the roomy Honda CR-V, but its most recent styling update is somewhat controversial and the Honda won't wake up anyone's driving enthusiasm. The Mitsubishi Outlander is a good alternative for those who like good, carlike handling in a tall wagon; however, its interior is even more of a letdown. Nissan's Rogue also has a well-executed interior, a smooth ride, and a spacious layout, but the driving experience isn't anything special. The Toyota RAV4 has an optional V-6 and available third-row seating. The Dodge Journey crossover was introduced about the same time as the current-generation Forester, and like the Subaru, it comes well equipped and offers plenty of space. However, its powertrain leaves a lot to be desired, and it's seriously lacking in the quality department.
Buying Tip
The base versions of the Forester are a great bargain, especially if you can live with a manual transmission--it's the pick of the bunch.
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2010 Toyota RAV4
TheCarConnection.com has searched the Web for some of the most insightful reviews from reputable sources. In a full review, they've weighed that against the editors' own Bottom Line, which includes firsthand driving impressions and an assessment of how the 2010 Toyota RAV4 measures up against rival models.
Likes
Spacious interior
Strong acceleration with V-6
Relatively fuel-efficient
Modest off-road ability
Dislikes
Third row is useless except for tykes
Side-opening rear hatch
Rear-mounted spare
Toyota can't help but hold on to tradition with its RAV4. Even though it's a modern crossover ute, with much more of an emphasis on roadworthy performance than off-road ability--and three rows of seating--most of the 2010 Toyota RAV4 lineup keeps with a very traditional sport-utility design, including the spare tire hanging off a side-opening rear hatch.
Last year, the Toyota RAV4 got a modest redesign, with a restyled grille and front bumper, improved fog light trims, and redesigned tail lights, but it kept its taller, more trucklike stance. For the first time, a Sport Appearance Package makes a move toward a more carlike silhouette, with the rear spare deleted.
The powertrain lineup in the 2010 Toyota RAV4 is quite close to what you'll find in the Toyota Camry sedan--which is fine as either choice is responsive yet quite fuel-efficient. A new 179-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was introduced last year, while a 269-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 remains optional; as such, it's the most powerful vehicle in its class. There's no manual gearbox to be had; V-6 RAV4 models have a five-speed automatic, while four-cylinder models make do just fine with a four-speed auto. In either case, the RAV4 is offered with either front- or four-wheel drive.
In the 2010 Toyota RAV4, most drivers will be happy with the four-cylinder base engine, which is smooth and responsive with all but the heaviest loads or toughest mountain grades. The larger engine gives the RAV4 the ability to sprint with hot-rod-like authority or pull off astonishingly quick passes. The RAV4 is sprung quite softly, so enthusiasts won't find much satisfaction in the handling, but it's stable and safe. And ride quality isn't as pitchy as some compact crossovers, thanks to a rather long wheelbase. Though off-road ability isn't a priority in the RAV4, its four-wheel-drive system is a bit more able than rival crossovers, capable of sending as much as 45 percent of torque to the back at up to 25 mph and including a center diff-lock mode.
Spacious and well designed, the interior of the 2010 Toyota RAV4 features an attractive two-tier instrument panel, good seats, a nice upright driving position, and plenty of storage spaces. The RAV4 teeters between compact and mid-size, but in any case, it's one of the few vehicles of its stature to offer a third-row seat. The third row officially expands the RAV4's capacity to seven, but that back row is way too small to be used by any adult. For that, you'll need to move up to the larger Highlander. But the seat design doesn't eat up much if any cargo space; when they're not occupied by children, they stow nicely in a recessed area of the cargo floor.
The safety story is mostly good for the 2010 Toyota RAV4. It's achieved four- and five-star results in federal crash tests, as well as top "good" ratings for frontal and side impact from the IIHS but a "marginal" rating in the seat-based rear impact category. Driver and front passenger front-seat-mounted side airbags, along with first- and second-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags, are standard on all versions of the 2010 RAV4, as well as electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes. All-wheel drive, stability and traction control, and electric power steering come together in Toyota's VSC system. Models equipped with the third-row seat also come standard with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC)--two features that are derived from what Toyota offers in its off-road-worthy vehicles and would come in quite handy for negotiating a steep, snowy driveway.
Base, Sport, and Limited trims of the 2010 Toyota RAV4 are offered for each powertrain. Even base models come well loaded, with air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, and a six-speaker sound system. The options list includes an upgraded JBL sound system with Bluetooth interface, heated seats, and a power moonroof. While the Limited model costs several thousand dollars more, it feels considerably more luxurious. The top Limited model adds bigger wheels, fog lamps, a different grille, upgraded seats, dual-zone climate control, and a tonneau cover, among other items. Many buyers will choose the middle Sport model; it includes all the equipment on the Base, plus a sport-tuned suspension, heated mirrors, and appearance extras--the most important of those being the lack of a spare tire hanging on the back.
The Bottom Line: Though it might wear a spare tire on its tail like the hard-core SUVs of yore, don't let that throw you off. The 2010 Toyota RAV4 is actually a practical, fuel-efficient choice for frugal families on the go.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Toyota RAV4, also consider:
- Honda CR-V
- Ford Escape
- Subaru Forester
- Kia Sorento
Reason Why:
Most of the compact crossover vehicles now offer a choice of four-cylinder or V-6 engines, as well as front- or all-wheel drive. The Honda and Subaru are the only exceptions. But take a look at styling and interiors and they differ significantly. The Ford Escape prioritizes boxy styling and a basic, square interior layout that still shows strengths versus sleeker, more rounded rivals. It performs well, too. The Subaru Forester became quite a bit larger with its last redesign; it still emphasizes all-weather handling over third-row utility or overt luxury. The Honda CR-V is an excellent, very space-efficient design with plenty of room for five, and it's TheCarConnection.com's longtime pick in this class, though it's not much fun to drive, nor does it have any significant off-road ability. Another model worth considering is the 2010 Kia Sorento--fresh off a complete redesign and to be assembled in Georgia. The new Sorento measures up closely with the RAV4--between compact and mid-size--and promises especially nice interior appointments and a very generous feature list.
Buying Tip
Don't forget to ask to see a Sport model. We bet you'll like the way it looks better than the other models--unless you're a hard-core off-roader. And in that case, you should consider a vehicle like the FJ Cruiser.
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2010 Chrysler Sebring
To assemble this comprehensive review covering the 2010 Chrysler Sebring sedan and Convertible, TheCarConnection.com has read a wide range of reviews from around the Web and include the most useful information in this full review. In addition, the editors of TheCarConnection.com lay it all out here in this Bottom Line summary, which includes their own firsthand observations.
Likes
Smooth ride
Lots of useful options
Spacious interior (sedan)
SpaceRoom for four adults (convertible)
Choice of convertible tops
Dislikes
Awkward styling
Unimpressive performance
Chintzy interior materials
Lack of refinement (four-cylinder)
For 2010, the Chrysler Sebring is again offered either as a sedan or a convertible. The sedan competes at the heart of the mid-size sedan class--including models like the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion--but fails to wow on almost any count, while the Convertible, despite being one of the best-selling ragtops in America, is decidedly mediocre. The Sebring Convertible is neither a sporting machine nor a car to be seen in; rather, it's the kind of car you take for a cruise for ice cream on a hot summer night for the sheer experience of being in a convertible.
Overall, the Chrysler Sebring sedan is less controversially styled than its Dodge Avenger sibling, which tries to pull off a scaled-down version of the Dodge Charger's muscle-car stance. However, the Sebring ends up lookingappearing slab-sided and offers a collection of details andthat is neither look attractive nor hideous. The Convertible's styling is downright awkward, though, with a roofline that doesn't quite work. On the inside of either model, the Sebring is inoffensively styled but disappoints in the details, with the Sebring lagging behind its rivals in terms of quality.
The Sebring line now offers just two engine choices--: a standard 2.4-liter, 173-horsepower four-cylinder; or an optional 3.5-liter, 235-hp V-6 coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle. While we've found the four-cylinder versions of most other modern mid-size sedans to be perfectly agreeable and adequate for mostthe majority of needs, the base powertrain in the Sebring feels coarse, and sluggish to react with the four-speed automatic. The much more powerful V-6 brings a different, smoother character altogether, with a more responsive six-speed transmission and better refinement, but fuel economy ratings with the V-6 lag the competition, at 16 mpg city. Fuel economy is rated at 24/32 mpg for the four-cylinder.
Whether in sedan or Convertible form, the 2010 Chrysler Sebring isn't very responsive or satisfying to drive. Steering is direct but not at all razor-sharp, and the independent suspension is firm enough to be safe in emergency maneuvers but not at all sporty. The Convertible feels a step sloppier. Overall, the ride tends toward the absorbent side, though it's also a bit pitchy.
The 2010 Chrysler Sebring will likely continue its appearance asremain a favorite in rental fleets, because its interior is actually find foraccommodates four adults--if you're willing to lwedge yourself through a narrow opening. The sedan also has a reasonably roomy, comfortable interior, with enough space for adults in back. The plasticky interior is not wonderful to touch, but the controls are laid out logically. In the sedan, the backseats fold forward and open up to the trunk; the front passenger seat also folds flat for loading long objects inside the car.
Several different top configurations are offered on the Convertible. Base LX models get a vinyl top, which basically does what it needs to do--keep the elements outside and the cabin fairly quiet--but from the outside it looks unattractive, compared with the nicely stitched fabric top offered on midlevel Sebring Convertibles. The three-piece hardtop, engineered by Germany's Karmann, arguably cleans up the Sebring Convertible's lines, but editors find the car's lines already to be among the least attractive of convertibles on the market.
The Chrysler Sebring gets mostly five-star ratings from the government for crash protection;, and it now getsearns top '"good"' scores in every major category from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), thanks to a new whiplash-averting front-seat design. That makes the sedan an IIHS Top Safety Pick for '10, although electronic stability control isn't a standard feature--it's a stand-alone $425 option.
The 2010 Chrysler Sebring doesn't wow in terms of standard features, but if you're willing to spend a little more money, there are truly some truly class-exclusive features in these value-priced mid-size vehicles. The Convertible is offered in twothree trims--LX, LXI, and Limited--while the Sebring sedan lineup now has been whittled down to a single Limited trim. The base LX Convertible is strictly for the rental-car crowd, but the LXI offers bigger 17-inch wheels and some upgraded trim inside that makes it seem less bargain-basement. On the Limited Convertible, a leather interior, automatic climate control, and Boston Acoustics sound are included, but even then the price has already passed the $35,000k mark.
The options list is extensive and one of the few ways in which the Sebring does well against rival models, but checking even a few boxes will drive the price into a range that no longer makes sense for most mid-size buyers. Standout features include an optional heated/cooled front cup holder that can warm beverages to 140 degrees or chill them to a near-freezing 35 degrees. Plus, there's a Harman Kardon information, entertainment, and safety navigation audio system with 6.5-inch touch-screen display, as well as a 20GB hard drive that includes a Music Juke Box interface for organizing music and pictures and. In addition, it comes with a USB connection for both MP3 connectivity and downloading of WMA, MP3, and JPEG files. Not all of these extras are offered on the Convertible.
The Bottom Line: An impressive feature set and a reasonable price can't keep the 2010 Chrysler Sebring Convertible and sedan from mediocrity.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Chrysler Sebring, also consider:
- Ford Fusion
- Mazda Mazda6
- Hyundai Sonata
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Ford Mustang
Reason Why:
If you're considering the 2010 Chrysler Sebring sedan, you'll also want to look at the Hyundai Sonata. Perhaps closest in marketing position to the Sebring, the Sonata aims to offer a few more features at a slightly more competitive price compared to other mid-size sedans. But the Sonata pulls it off a little more convincingly, especially after a design and features refresh for 2009. The Ford Fusion and the Mazda6 are both sportier-feeling rivals to the Sebring, and they perform much better in nearly every way. The Fusion is a bit larger than the Sebring, while the Mazda6 may handle more in tune with some drivers' tastes and has a distinctive new look and feel that's more luxurious. Against the Convertible, there aren't many other choices anymore, with discontinuation of the Pontiac G6 and Toyota Camry Solara. But shoppers should consider the 2010 Ford Mustang Convertible, which also offers a back seat that's tolerable for adults and offers much more head-turning potential.
Buying Tip
Especially if you're interested in the Convertible and want a longer, hassle-free test drive, consider renting one. They're quite easy to find in most major rental fleets.
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The Ten Most Fuel-Efficient Cars For ’10
Most ordinary gasoline models look like guzzlers next to the hybrids--and a few compact diesel models--that dominate the upper echelon of this year's EPA fuel economy ratings. For instance, according to the EPA's Fuel Economy Guide information released last week, a 2010 Toyota Prius will cost less than half as much to keep fueled for a year's worth of driving than the seemingly fuel-efficient four-cylinder, all-wheel-drive 2010 Toyota RAV4. According to EPA estimates, the savings would rack up to $850; and that's with gas prices at a relatively low $2.58 a gallon.
At least you're not driving a 2010 Lamborghini Murcielago (8 mpg City) or a 2010 Bentley Azure or Bentley Brooklands (9 mpg City), right? Right?
The hybrid-heavy results aren't too surprising, but there remains just one non-hybrid gasoline model in our top ten, with the 2010 Toyota Yaris, and Volkswagen's new 2010 Golf and Jetta diesels, filling it up. Several new hybrid models for 2010, including the Honda Insight and Lexus HS 250h, have taken new top positions and pushing out other small, inexpensive cars, while the 2010 Toyota Prius was again the most fuel-efficient vehicle overall, with a 50-mpg Combined rating.
We've listed official fuel economy figures and estimated annual fuel cost from the EPA (assuming 15,000 miles and that $2.58/gal fuel price), and our Overall Rating and Bottom Line take on these models. Please click on the individual models for detailed information including pricing, specs, and comprehensive reviews, plus galleries of images.
Here are this year's fuel economy champs:
Toyota Prius
EPA City/Highway/Combined mpg: 51/49/50
EPA Annual Fuel Cost: $774
TheCarConnection Meta Review Rating: 8.2
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Toyota Prius ups the ante in the hybrid world with 51-mpg city fuel economy and a finer style.
Between TheCarConnection.com, GreenCarReports.com, and our go-to site, AllAboutPrius.com, we've reported, literally, all about this mileage-topping model. We like the more upscale feel of the new Prius, its improved headroom, and more upscale feel while criticizing its restrictive new console design and, well, how it still drives very much like a hybrid. In several driving experiences the editors of TheCarConnection.com have seen some very extraordinary high-mileage results in ordinary driving. Most recently, we averaged 53 mpg in 140 miles of commute-style driving, but we've also seen as high as 77 mpg, and in his First Drive Executive Editor Marty Padgett reported getting nearly 70 mpg "without even really trying--just coasting to stops, accelerating very gradually and using the Prius' EV mode to coast into our host hotel."
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2010 Hyundai Sonata
So that you're better able to compare the 2010 Hyundai Sonata with other vehicles in its class, the editors of TheCarConnection.com have driven the Sonata and compiled an authoritative Bottom Line that uses firsthand observations and impressions. Then TheCarConnection.com assembled a comprehensive full review with excerpts from other respected sources from around the Web.
Likes
Smooth four-cylinder engine
Upscale look and feel of interior
Reasonably handsome exterior
Strong warranty
Dislikes
Doesn't steer as well as rivals
Flat-feeling seats
Fussy Bluetooth integration
Although the 2010 Hyundai Sonata still hangs in the second echelon of mid-size sedans, after well-known nameplates like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, there's no reason why it shouldn't be compared directly with those mainstays. The Sonata is an excellent package with well-coordinated styling, a spacious interior, and the usual choice of four-cylinder or V-6 engines. After a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh last year that included a new four-cylinder engine, a substantially redesigned interior, and an update of available tech features, the Sonata carries into 2010 with no significant changes.
Last year the Sonata got a light touch-up at the front and rear, with most of the sedan's sheetmetal carried over; that's fine as the Sonata is nicely proportioned, if a bit conservative. The Sonata gained a new interior last year, most notably refinished in soft-touch plastics and padded surfaces, with a matte-metallic finish that's comparable to what's used in Lexus vehicles and Hyundai's upscale Genesis. Overall, the feel is surprisingly sophisticated, though there are still a few hard finishes in places.
The 2010 Hyundai Sonata lineup is somewhat abbreviated compared with previous model years; the V-6 is no longer offered with the base GLS. Sporty SE and upscale Limited trims are still available with the four or the V-6. The 2.4-liter, 175-horsepower four-cylinder engine comes with with a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic, but you'll be hard-pressed to find a stick. That's fine, as the four works just fine with the automatic; it's smooth in everyday driving with just enough torque for comfortable passing. The available 249-hp, 3.3-liter V-6 isn't that much quicker, with the Sonata feeling significantly heavier with this engine. Fuel economy ranges from 21/31 mpg for the four to 19/28 mpg with the six. Handling isn't quite as responsive and nicely weighted as you might find in the Mazda6 and Ford Fusion, but for ride and handling it does compare with the base Honda Accord and Toyota Camry models. Sporty SE models still manage an absorbent ride.
Ever since this generation of Sonata made its debut in 2006, interior space has been significantly better relative to other mid-size sedans. The front seats in any of the versions are quite comfortable but a bit flat, while in terms of backseat space the 2010 Sonata qualifies as a large car, like the Honda Accord, with the backseat contoured just right. Interior appointments in general feel high quality, with plenty of padded surfaces, and doors open and close with a solid sound. The high-mounted radio and climate controls are easy to use, and cup holders and storage abound.
The Hyundai Sonata earns five stars for front and side-impact safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) calls it "acceptable" for side impacts.
Electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and side curtain airbags are included across the model line.
You don't need to step up beyond the base 2010 Hyundai Sonata GLS to get a well-equipped car. The GLS offers an AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio with USB and auxiliary jacks, air conditioning, cruise control, and a tilt steering wheel. A spoiler, 17-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a power driver seat, and steering-wheel audio controls are all part of the sporty SE. The Limited gets a multidisc CD changer, a subwoofer/amplifier, and heated front seats. A sunroof and a navigation system are available, and the Sonata now offers an Infinity premium audio system. One area that disappoints is the low-rent Bluetooth interface on the GLS, which is mounted like a speakerphone on the headliner. No matter which model you choose, the warranty coverage is very strong: five years or 50,000 miles basic, and ten years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain.
The Bottom Line: The refined and roomy 2010 Hyundai Sonata lands solidly in the middle of a crowded field of mid-size family sedans, with just a little more value for the money than most of the rest.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2010 Hyundai Sonata, also consider:
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Ford Fusion
- Honda Accord
- Nissan Altima
- Toyota Camry
Reason Why:
The mid-size sedan field has long been ruled by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, though the Camry no longer has the top-notch reliability and build quality it once did, and the Honda Accord has gone off in left field in terms of styling. Meanwhile, the Nissan Altima is an exceptional large sedan, with responsive handling and sporty styling to match; however, it has less space overall than the Sonata, and its CVT automatic is a less appealing combination than the Sonata's four-cylinder and five-speed automatic. The Chevrolet Malibu is just as roomy as the Sonata, with a very comfortable ride and well-appointed interior, though its four-cylinder engine isn't quite as smooth and quiet. The Ford Fusion is a slight step smaller than the rest but feels much sportier overall.
Buying Tip
If you like the 2010 Hyundai Sonata, you might be able to swing a deal toward the end of the model year; for 2011 an all-new Sonata is on the way, and a Hybrid version will follow shortly thereafter.
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2010 Mazda CX-7
To assemble this cohesive review covering the entire 2010 Mazda CX-7 line--including the new 2.5-liter models--TheCarConnection.com incorporated its firsthand driving impressions in a Bottom Line, then looked outward to other review sources to include a host of other perspectives and insights.
Likes
Sophisticated design
Well-detailed interior
Handles well
Reasonably fuel-efficient
Dislikes
Smallish backseat
Disappointing cargo space with seats up
Bluetooth not available on base SV
When the CX-7 was first introduced for 2007, it was one of the only small crossover utility vehicles with more rakish styling and an emphasis on sport-sedan-like road performance. Now for 2010 Mazda has expanded the CX-7 line to include a more economical base engine, spruced up the interior, and worked on making the cabin quieter.
The CX-7 retains its aggressive profile, including a 66-degree windshield incline that's the steepest for any vehicle of its type. Mazda touches up the CX-7's front and rear details for 2010--including a larger grille and Mazda logo--but the creased sheetmetal, bulging fenders and wheel wells, and low, sleek hoodline remain mostly unchanged. Inside, the CX-7's interior continues the feel of part sport sedan, part utility vehicle. The instrument panel has a thin upper shelf that hosts audio and climate-control displays up in the driver's line of vision. Next to it, there's a new monochromatic trip computer or color nav screen. Hooded gauges and a new steering wheel design with controls for audio and Bluetooth calling functions complete the performance feel, while subtle new brightwork around the vents adds more visual panache.
The 2010 CX-7 lineup is now split into "i" and "s" models. The "i" models feature a new 161-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with a five-speed automatic transmission. Standard on "s" models is a 244-horsepower, turbocharged direct-injected 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The "i" comes in front-wheel drive only, while the "s" models can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive.
Overall, shoppers will find the 2.5 adequate for most needs, but for those who buy the 2010 Mazda CX-7 with its sporty image in mind, the turbo engine better fits the appearance. During normal driving, the 2.3-liter turbo engine accelerates the CX-7 almost effortlessly; downshifts aren't always necessary as 90 percent of peak torque is achieved from 2,000 rpm all the way up to 5,000 rpm. However, the trade-off is a slightly coarser sound versus the 2.5. Both engines are reasonably fuel-efficient. The base engine returns 20 mpg city, 28 highway; the turbocharged engine has improved fuel economy for 2010--up to 18 mpg city, 25 highway--and it's been retuned to accept regular gas.
Across the board, the CX-7 isn't going to disappoint those who enjoy driving, and most will be surprised at how well such a tall vehicle can handle. The CX-7 is hard to fluster, even around tight corners, and although its steering feel isn't quite as nicely weighted and direct as the Mazda5 (a minivan!), it's a joy to hustle through the curves.
Limited legroom for backseat passengers and a rather small cargo area (compared to other utility vehicles) are the downsides of an otherwise pleasant and functional interior. Front seats are wide yet quite firm and supportive in the 2010 Mazda CX-7, and the driving position affords a good view ahead (although there's a substantial blind spot and difficult rear vision when parking). There are several smaller cubbies, and center console compartments have been reconfigured to be more useful. The story is less delightful in back, where there's barely enough width to fit three across; adults will find plenty of headroom, but the low position leaves knees elevated and a general shortage of legroom. Folding the backseats forward yields 70 inches of flat cargo floor; it's not very tall, but enough to move a coffee table or love seat.
For 2010, all Mazda CX-7 models get improved sound insulation. New lower-door insulation is included throughout the CX-7 line, while models with the turbocharged engine have additional hood padding and strut-tower insulation to help keep both engine and road noise under wraps. We used to call the CX-7 one of the noisiest vehicles in its class; it's still not the quietest, but this aspect is no longer a deal-breaker. The CX-7 feels well put-together, and Mazda upgrades seat materials for 2010 and moves to a different plastic for the instrument panel and door panels that's less likely to attract dust.
Safety features on the 2010 Mazda CX-7 include standard electronic stability control on all models, plus anti-lock brakes, front side airbags, and side-curtain bags covering both rows. The underlying structure is carried over, and the 2009 CX-7 gets top five-star ratings in federal NCAP tests along with mostly "good" results from the IIHS, except for a "marginal" rating in the rear-impact category. TheCarConnection.com plans to update you on ratings for 2010.
The lower-priced 2010 Mazda CX-7 models don't look much different from the turbocharged ones; the base SV and Sport get 17-inch alloy wheels instead of 18- and 19-inch designs, and turbocharged Touring and Grand Touring models pick up other detail extras like turn-signal-integrated mirrors and chrome-finish door handles. Inside, Touring models add leather upholstery, which isn't available in "i" models. Top Grand Touring trims include automatic climate control, a SmartKey entry system, a moonroof, heated mirrors, the nav system, rain-sensing wipers, and xenon HID headlamps. All models but the base SV come with a Bluetooth hands-free interface--Bluetooth streaming audio is also offered--and for the first time, the top-of-the-line Grand Touring picks up a Blind Spot Monitoring System. Bose Centerpoint audio is optional.
The Bottom Line: If you want the driving experience of a sports sedan but need the versatility of a wagon, the 2010 Mazda CX-7 remains one of the better choices.
Other Choices:
If you like the 2010 Mazda CX-7, also consider:
- Acura RDX
- Honda CR-V
- Infiniti EX35
- Nissan Rogue
- Subaru Tribeca
- Volkswagen Tiguan
Reason Why:
The 2010 Mazda CX-7 now effectively has two sets of rivals. Competing with the bargain-priced 2.5-liter "i" models are the Nissan Rogue, the Honda CR-V, and new four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, among others, while the turbo CX-7 takes on the Subaru Tribeca, Volkswagen Tiguan, and perhaps even Acura RDX. The Rogue has less of a performance emphasis; it exhibits a more laid-back personality, and the driving experience is a little more isolated (and numbed). It can allow quite a bit of road noise inside, but the backseat is more spacious. The CR-V is one of the best vehicles in the compact crossover class, with a very roomy and refined interior, but it's not an exciting driving experience. The new base four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox has been redesigned with much-improved noise isolation, along with attractive interior materials, and it deserves another look. Competing with the turbo models, the Acura RDX is a performance-oriented crossover that also packs a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and a suspension that's tuned for sporty handling, and it's probably the closest rival to the 2010 Mazda CX-7. There's more usable backseat space in the RDX, and its powertrain feels and sounds more refined. The RDX also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that is harder to fluster in brisk driving on curvy roads. The EX35 is a new competitor to the 2010 Mazda CX-7, with an excellent interior design and sharp handling, but its interior is also somewhat cramped. The Subaru Tribeca has quirky styling inside, sharp handling, and a surprisingly fun-to-drive feel on the road, thanks to the responsive flat-six engine, while the Tiguan is bound to attract some shoppers due to its responsive turbo four and attractive interior.
Buying Tip
Planning to hold off, hoping for a manual transmission or MazdaSpeed version of the 2010 Mazda CX-7? Neither of them is in the works, sadly.
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2010 Ford Ranger
In order to bring you a complete set of information on the 2010 Ford Ranger, the experts at TheCarConnection.com collect highlights from some of the Web's leading review sources in the Full Review on adjacent pages, along with editors' firsthand driving impressions and shopping advice in this comprehensive Bottom Line assessment of the Ranger.
Likes
Truly a compact truck
Fuel efficiency
Newly standard safety features
Focused off-road model
Dislikes
No full four-door body style
Longest bed is just six feet
Still lacks side curtain bags
The Ford Ranger hasn't changed significantly in nearly two decades and might very well win the award of being the longest-running model line with the fewest major changes. With only a handful of refinements, the family of compact trucks has carried over with few changes in recent years. That said, the 2010 Ranger remains reasonably competitive for cost-conscious buyers needing a basic pickup, and it's one of the few compacts remaining on the market.
Periodic minor updates have kept the Ranger's front end looking fresh even if the profile is basically the same as it was for 1993, when the Ranger was last redesigned. With overall styling that qualifies as "classic" at this point, it's arguably more attractive than some compact trucks. Materials are better than you might think in the Ranger; the standard cloth upholstery is sturdy (the base vinyl isn't cheerful, though), plastics aren't overly scratch-prone, and it's basic but not bare. The seats themselves in the 2010 Ford Ranger are a weakness, though; they're thin, flat, and unsupportive for longer trips.
The 2010 Ford Ranger remains available in four- and six-cylinder forms, in rear- or four-wheel drive, and in two-door Regular Cab and four-door SuperCab configurations. There's no true four-door version of the Ranger, but the SuperCab has two small access doors for cargo stowage.
The Ranger's 143-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine provides what other compact-truck buyers seek but largely fail to find in the U.S. market: good fuel economy with acceptable performance. The four-cylinder brings ratings as high as 21 mpg city, 26 highway and is a good choice for those who don't tow and only occasionally haul heavy loads. The only other choice is a 4.0-liter V-6, making 207 horsepower; it's standard on XL 4x4 models and most other trims.
If off-roading is what you have in mind, the 2010 Ford Ranger can be entertaining and able when properly outfitted, either with options or with the focused FX4 Off-Road model, which gets standard Rancho shocks, a Class III trailer package, skid plates, sport bucket seats, and an available Torsen limited-slip differential. The six-foot bed in the Ranger is useful for most casual use and some professional tasks, but the gold-standard 4x8 sheet of plywood just won't make it flat (you might see Rangers out there with a seven-foot bed, but it's a fleet-only option).
Safety has been a glaring deficiency for the Ranger in recent years, but it finally gets a huge boost for 2010. Seat-mounted side airbags are standard this year, as are electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes. The Ranger's stability control system helps prevent conditions that might lead to rollover, but the safety list isn't perfect; side-curtain bags still aren't available.
Trim levels of the 2010 Ford Ranger include the XL, XLT, Sport, and the aforementioned FX4 Off-Road model. All models now come with air conditioning, but on the XL you'll find manual windows, locks, and mirrors. XLT models get dressed up with fog lamps, a chrome grille, and step-up bumpers, plus an upgraded sound system with aux input and MP3 compatibility, while the Sport includes trailer-tow hardware, as well as upgrades in the suspension and the interior. A Class 3 trailer hitch comes with all Rangers. Options on most trims are pretty limited, with remote start, a sliding rear window, and keypad entry among the most significant additions.
Bottom Line: The 2010 Ford Ranger isn't so modern and refined, but it's a practical, fuel-efficient, and reasonably safe choice for those who just want a truck.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Ford Ranger, also consider:
- Chevrolet Colorado
- GMC Canyon
- Mazda B-Series
- Toyota Tacoma
- Nissan Frontier
Reason Why:
The most direct competitors for the Ranger are the GMC Canyon/Chevrolet Colorado compact trucks. The Ranger has a smoother V-6 engine, but the GM twins have an optional five-cylinder engine with more power and, for 2009, a V-8 selection that in some respects gives it the ability of a larger truck. The Canyon and Colorado also offer a true four-door model with a back bench seat, though it's uncomfortable for long trips. Other rivals include the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier. Both of these models offer four-cylinder base engines, though they feel significantly larger than the true-compact Ranger. Surprisingly, the Ranger's base four-cylinder engine feels more refined than either the GM trucks or the Toyota. However, if you're going to step up to a V-6 yet think a V-8 is overkill, you would probably be happier with either the Toyota or Nissan.
Buying Tip
The 2010 Mazda B-Series remains virtually identical to the 2010 Ford Ranger, with only slightly different styling; if you can find one of those at a Mazda dealership, you might be able to get an even stronger deal.
| Permalink:2010 Ford Ranger | |
2010 Mazda Mazda5
To put together an especially thorough review on the 2010 Mazda Mazda5, TheCarConnection.com's experts read a number of reviews from some of the Web's top sources and included the most useful information from them. And to arrive at a Bottom Line assessment, TheCarConnection.com reports on the firsthand driving experience as well as the ins and outs of this mini-minivan.
Likes:
Nimble small-car handling, with room for six
Available manual transmission
Parking-friendly sliding doors
Truly a mini van
Dislikes:
Feels underpowered when fully loaded
Short, unsupportive front seats
With options, Grand Touring model is pricey
Whether you see the Mazda5 as a seven-eighths-scale minivan or a compact wagon with the roof raised and sliding side doors, the Mazda5 fills a niche that no other vehicle does in the U.S. market. And this year, with demand for fuel-efficient vehicles way up, sales have surged for this unique three-row, six-seat "sport minivan."
With its mechanical underpinnings closely related to the Mazda3 sedan and hatchback--models that TheCarConnection.com ranks high for small-car shoppers--the Mazda5 brings much of that same eager, nimble character to the driver's seat in a way that few other SUVs or minivans do. That handling prowess is assured via MacPherson struts in the front and a multilink setup in the rear, with 17-inch wheels and tires available. Surefooted four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes provide the stopping power to match. The Mazda5 rides well, too: smoothly but firmly and without much body motion.
The only thing that hinders the Mazda5 from being a truly cohesive sporty package is its 153-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. With an empty load it's somewhat peppy-feeling with the standard (on Sport trims) five-speed manual (a rarity among minivans) and acceptable with the available (standard on Touring and Grand touring trims) five-speed automatic. But fill up the van with six occupants--or even three or four adults and their bags, and the engine feels completely overwhelmed on the highway. Around town it does the job, but if you often road-trip with a full load, you might be disappointed.
The Mazda5's interior is surprisingly spacious. Although the rearmost two seats are kid's stuff only, theater-style seating makes the most of those backseats, although the front seats are skimpy in size for taller or larger people and there's no side support for when you do want to enjoy the cornering abilities. A one-touch walk-in mechanism offers easy access to the third-row seats, and both the second- and third-row seats can fold down to create a virtually flat floor for transporting large objects. The second-row seats slide fore and aft to allow more space for the third row (or more cargo space) as needed, and the liftgate actually has two detents to help out shorter users.
You certainly won't find luxurious materials and trims in the 2010 Mazda5, but it gives the overall impression of being nicely put-together, with well-coordinated if simple surface textures. The instrument panel is straightforward, and there are no complicated interfaces to overcome. Ride quality is quite good; it's firm overall but yields to potholes and the really rough stuff. One issue to some buyers might be road noise--the Mazda5 allows more in than the average minivan.
The 2010 Mazda5 does well in the federal government's crash tests. Driver, front passenger, and side front impact protection score the highest: five stars. Rear side impact protection and rollover resistance score four stars. Electronic stability control, a must-have feature for virtually any vehicle and families especially, is newly standard across the model line. Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are paired in the standard-features list, which also includes front side and side curtain airbags that cover all three rows of seating.
The 2010 Mazda Mazda5 includes a pretty impressive list of standard features in Sport or Touring trim levels, including a standard CD stereo, power windows and locks, and cruise control. An alarm system, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system, automatic headlights, heated sideview mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers are included with the uplevel Grand Touring model. Options on the base models include fog lamps, a CD changer, and a power moonroof, while a DVD-based navigation system, remote engine start, Sirius Satellite Radio, and an overhead rear-seat DVD entertainment system are available on the Grand Touring.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Mazda Mazda5, also consider:
- Kia Rondo
- Scion xB
- Toyota RAV4
- Hyundai Elantra Touring
- Kia Sedona SWB
Reason Why:
The 2010 Mazda Mazda5 is quite a deal for a sporty, economical people-mover, provided you watch the options. The base 5 starts at around $18,000, yet fully loaded top-line Grand Touring models can come surprisingly close to the $30,000 mark--and that's a whole different landscape of vehicles. The Kia Rondo can be odd-looking to some, but it's the closest match to the Mazda5, with an equally space-efficient interior and fuel-efficient base four-cylinder engine. The Rondo, however, has hinged rear doors, which makes it slightly less convenient in some cases. The Sedona minivan should also be considered; it's one of the few remaining minivans sold in a maneuverable short-wheelbase version. The RAV4 is another fuel-efficient rival, and it's one of the rare compact SUVs that offer a third-row seat good for kid duty. The perky Scion xB might suit those who don't really need a third row of seating, as its stylish, boxy body affords a roomy interior, while the Hyundai Elantra Touring is a new wagon that's more an economical, sporty small car than a minivan.
The Bottom Line: For families looking for fuel-efficient, maneuverable, and roomy transportation--with a fun-to-drive feel--the 2010 Mazda5 is your best and only choice.
Buying Tip
The 2010 Mazda Mazda5 makes more sense if you keep it simple, where it's priced low; with a lot of options, it costs almost as much as full-size minivans. Also, as much as you might want a manual-transmission Mazda5, they're hard to find and the options are more limited.
| Permalink:2010 Mazda Mazda5 | |
2009 Audi Q5
TheCarConnection.com has researched reviews and driven the 2009 Audi Q5 to bring you this comprehensive review of its safety, performance, styling, comfort, and quality. TheCarConnection.com's expert editors also drove this and other luxury sport-utility vehicles to compare and contrast the Audi Q5 with other crossovers in its class.
Likes
Appealing style, inside and out
Quality feel of cabin and controls
Ample V-6 power
Standard all-wheel drive
Dislikes
Drive Select gimmickry
Steering too heavy in all modes
A pricey addition to the class
The 2009 Audi Q5 is the German automaker's first compact sport-utility vehicle, and it's a direct competitor to the Mercedes-Benz GLK and BMW X3, as well as the Lexus RX crossovers. It's available in one drivetrain configuration, with "quattro" all-wheel drive, a six-cylinder engine, and a six-speed automatic. The 2009 Audi Q5 provided to TheCarConnection.com for this Bottom Line road test summary carries a base price of $38,025, including destination, and an as-delivered price of $48,275.
Even in its stylish class of luxury utes, the 2009 Audi Q5 is a handsome winner. Like the Volvo XC60, its softly sculptured lines use height and stance to convey all the right SUV messages, the opposite of the angularity that the GLK and LR2 depend on for their more masculine looks. The Q5 is more subtly good-looking than most sedans, in fact, except for the massive grille up front that's too large, too deep, and too everything. The slope of the roofline and the sedan-like tail lamps (with LED lighting) walk the best line between sport-ute size and German-wagon efficiency. It's the same story inside, where Audi's traditionally well-executed cabins make sense of what could be a lot of little buttons. Framing them in metallic trim, applying wood (like the maple in the vehicle tested by TheCarConnection.com), and matching leathers and plastics closely gives the somewhat cluttered dash a unified, rich look.
A single powertrain defines the 2009 Audi Q5 sold in America this year. It teams a 3.2-liter, 270-horsepower V-6, a six-speed automatic with manual gear selection, and all-wheel drive. The engine's fairly sweet-revving, though a little louder and more vibration-prone than you might expect--just like the six-cylinder in the latest Lexus RX. Gear changes are quick and mostly trouble-free, unless you choose a downshift manually in Tiptronic mode at the wrong power point. The Q5 will obey, so long as it doesn't frag its engine doing so. Paddle shift controls would be a plus to enhance the drivetrain's sporty feel; Audi says hybrid and diesel engines are possible in the future, and a turbocharged four-cylinder model is almost assured.
Handling and ride are a mixed bag; you can tell the Q5's essentials and the rearward power bias (40:60) want to feel responsive and sporting. But like the 2009 Audi A4, most U.S. vehicles come with Drive Select, an electronically variable system that allows drivers to choose response levels for steering, braking, transmission shifts, and throttle quickness. The vast preference for TheCarConnection.com's editors is a single well-developed suspension setting; the Q5 with Drive Select has heavy steering in all modes, and ride quality doesn't soften enough to justify variable controls. With all-wheel drive, about 8 inches of ground clearance, and hill descent control, the Q5 can handle moderate all-terrain activity, but it's clearly not meant for anything more than casual hill climbing. Towing capacity is 4,400 pounds, and fuel economy is 18/23 mpg. TheCarConnection observes just over 18 mpg in mostly city driving.
The 2009 Q5 offers a comfortable, roomy cabin and cargo hold for well-heeled buyers. As long as or longer overall than all the competition save for the 2010 Lexus RX, the Q5 is among the widest vehicles in its class and sports the longest wheelbase. That gives front passengers more than enough leg- and shoulder room; headroom is numerically mid-pack, but the Q5 tested here, with a panoramic sunroof, still has enough height for six-foot drivers and passengers. The seats themselves are firm and adjust for great comfort, even in back, where the passengers can recline for long-trip comfort. The second-row seats split and fold to create more cargo space, but even when five people (four adults, really) are seated inside, there's enough cargo room for four roll-on suitcases and a clear view out the rear hatch glass. Audi molds in 1-liter-sized drink holders in all the doors, the console, and the fold-down armrest in the backseat, so you'll remain well-hydrated.
Safety features abound on the Q5; Audi's crossover also earns five stars in all ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which also names it a Top Safety Pick. Standard front, side, and curtain airbags combine with anti-lock brakes as well as stability and traction control for those top safety ratings; Audi also offers a rearview camera and parking sensors to cut down on low-speed mishaps.
For $38,025, the 2009 Audi Q5 arrives in showrooms outfitted with standard features like three-zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, an AM/FM/CD player, Sirius Satellite Radio, leather seating, wood trim, heated power mirrors, and a tilt/telescope steering wheel. TheCarConnection.com's Premium Plus Q5 adds $4,300 for a panoramic sunroof, a power tailgate, power heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity, an iPhone/iPod interface, and a six-CD changer. Atop that, a $3,000 Navigation package adds hard-drive-based GPS mapping, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a DVD player. The $2,950 Drive Select package is the one feature editors wish was omitted from the options list; the 14-speaker, 505-watt Bang & Olufsen stereo system would be more welcome.
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Audi Q5 sports the sleek lines of a sweet German sedan, a date-worthy cabin, and good, hefty, but gimmicky handling.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Audi Q5, also consider:
- Mercedes-Benz GLK
- BMW X3
- Land Rover LR2
- Infiniti EX35
- Acura RDX
- Cadillac SRX
- Lexus RX
- Volvo XC60
Reason Why:
Three distinct groups of competitors emerge for the 2009 Audi Q5. The first group comprises its fellow travelers from Germany and Great Britain; the Mercedes-Benz GLK wears angular clothes and bakes in off-roading, four-wheel drive, and a big V-6, with diesel power on the way. The BMW X3 is the senior officer in the class and is substantially improved in ride and handling in 2008. Land Rover's LR2 is a square-jawed niche player in the group, with true four-wheeling bred in its blocky silhouette. The next pair, the Acura RDX and Infiniti EX35, share Japanese heritage, but feel radically different. The RDX's pulsing turbocharged four-cylinder seems at odds with its mission, while the EX35's teensy cargo area leads to questions about its SUV classification. Lastly, the soft and comfy SUVs in this group include the Lexus RX, a luxury favorite with little driving feel and a hybrid model; the new Volvo XC60, a sleek and fairly quick-footed SUV with a marvelous interior; and the Cadillac SRX, a new entry in this size class with crisp styling and good on-road maneuvers.
Buying Tip
If you're eager for diesel power in your Q5, you'll have to wait: Audi plans a hybrid Q5 sport-ute for 2011, and the oil-burner won't arrive until after that gas-electric model.
| Permalink:2009 Audi Q5 | |
