2010 Ford Edge
TheCarConnection.com has covered all the bases by looking to a wide range of review sources relevant to the 2010 Ford Edge. In addition to conveying information from those reports, TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the Ford Edge and added some firsthand observations and insights to form a comprehensive review.
Likes
Two rows of comfortable seating
Responsive powertrain
Handling poise
Contemporary design still stands out
Dislikes
Somewhat plain inside
Lack of manual controls for the transmission
No EcoBoost engine option
The Ford Edge manages to look a little different in a class of vehicles that tend to all blur together. Like most newer so-called crossover designs, the 2010 Ford Edge rides and drives more like a car--a tall wagon--than a sport-utility vehicle, while its overall packaging is a good substitute for those who have moved on from an Explorer or Expedition. Ford has in recent years started its cars with an "F" and its trucks with an "E," but make no mistake, the Edge is very carlike in its performance.
From either the front or the side, the Edge's blunt nose and bright, overchromed grille are the dominant design features. Otherwise, the smoothly arched roofline and tasteful, understated rear details combine for one of the more attractive crossover profiles. Inside, the 2010 Edge feels a lot more straightforward and traditional. Materials and surfaces don't quite match the best ones Ford has applied recently in other models, but the upright seating position and an instrument panel that's more like a sport sedan's than an SUV's are both positives.
A 3.5-liter, 265-horsepower V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission are offered across the 2010 Ford Edge lineup, and power is delivered by either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The combination has plenty of power to move the Edge briskly, even with a full load or on steep hills, but it still doesn't come with the manual controls that are the sign of a vehicle with sporting intentions. Nevertheless, the Edge is surprisingly entertaining to drive, with responsive handling and a suspension that's tuned just firmly enough for crisp handling without sacrificing ride quality.
The 2010 Ford Edge becomes more fuel-efficient, with fuel-economy improvements of up to 2 mpg versus last year. EPA ratings now stand at 18 mpg city, 25 highway for the front-wheel-drive version.
Keep in mind that while many other models of the Edge's general size have third-row seating, the Edge has two rows and seating for five. But all five seating positions are ample for adults. Front seats are generous and supportive, while in back the bench seat is split 60/40 to fold forward or recline slightly. When folded, the backseats provide a level load floor, and with the front passenger seat folded the Edge can accommodate items up to eight feet long. However, the sloping rear window restricts the cargo area a bit. Each rear seat can also be folded manually using an industry-first single-hand release or automatically with an available EasyFold electro-mechanical remote release accessible from the rear cargo area.
Standard safety equipment includes AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, anti-lock brakes, front-seat side airbags, and side-curtain airbags. The 2010 Ford Edge gets top scores across nearly all of the federal-government and insurance-industry crash tests, and it has been an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Standout features available on the 2010 Ford Edge include Ford's SYNC system for controlling entertainment and communication systems, a voice-activated navigation system, and a new, large, panorama-style Vista Roof. A power liftgate is optional, as are 20-inch chromed wheels and brassy red-trimmed front seats. New last year was Sirius Travel Link, a useful optional feature that provides real-time traffic and weather information, as well as current gas prices at nearby gas stations.
The Bottom Line: If you don't require a third-row seat, the 2010 Ford Edge remains a satisfying alternative in the crowded pack of mid-size crossovers.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Ford Edge, also consider:
- Hyundai Veracruz
- Mazda CX-9
- Nissan Murano
- Toyota Highlander
- Subaru Tribeca
Reason Why:
Unlike most of its similar-size competitors, the 2010 Ford Edge doesn't have an available third row of seating. But its interior is a more comfortable place for four (or up to five) than several of its competitors, especially the Murano and Tribeca. The slight interior improvements and new SYNC system introduced on the '08 Edge help make the Ford more competitive against top peers such as the Highlander. Relative to the Edge, the Tribeca and CX-9 are a little sportier on the road, with a slightly firmer suspension setting and crisper handling, while the Highlander and Veracruz have styling that's less exciting and possibly less offensive. Premium fuel is recommended for several of the Edge's competitors, but cheaper 87-octane fuel is fine for the Edge. The Mazda CX-9 is a rival to the Edge, which has a slightly sportier character, but the two share mechanical underpinnings.
Buying Tip:
Don't buy a 2010 Ford Edge thinking you can take it off-road. Ford makes no promises, and the focus of the Edge is on-road performance.
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2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To bring you both comprehensive information and an expert opinion on the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse, TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven both the coupe and Spyder versions, along with both engines. TheCarConnection.com has also researched road tests covering the Eclipse to bring you the most useful information on how it stacks up with other low-priced sporty rivals.
Likes
Sheer affordability, especially of Spyder
Torquey, responsive V-6
Warranty coverage
Dislikes
Tight interior
Overstyled coupe
Doesn't handle so responsively
Poor V-6 fuel economy
The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe or convertible that doesn't have a lot of frills or a very refined look and feel, yet it can be reasonably entertaining to drive--especially in the V-6 versions of the coupe or Spyder.
With styling that's a little less mature and refined than the balanced design of the Honda Accord Coupe or Nissan Altima Coupe, the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse just isn't as pretty with its mix of lines and molten-looking, curved sheetmetal. However, its aggressive, almost giddy styling might appeal to a particular type of buyer who wants attention. Last year the Eclipse got a modest restyle in the way of restyled front and rear fascias, plus an enhanced appearance and new exhaust for the GT. For 2010, the appearance of the base GS model gets dialed up with most of those changes, even in four-cylinder form.
Inside, the plain-faced dash of the 2010 Eclipse is made with good-quality materials that are fitted together well. The front seats are supportive, but the interior is intimate and many drivers might find headroom tight in the coupe; the rear seats are uncomfortable for adults.
The 162-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that's standard on the base Eclipse GS and GS Sport quite simply struggles to keep up, and doesn't fit the Eclipse's aggressive appearance. The 265-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 that comes in GT models brings a completely different personality, with its ample torque making the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse feel at times like a front-wheel-drive muscle car. The four-cylinder cars offer a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, while the V-6 coupes come with a choice of a slick-shifting six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. Fuel economy for the four-cylinder model ranges up to 20 mpg city, 28 highway, but the V-6 rates at just 16/25 mpg with automatic in the Spyder.
The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse is based on the Galant sedan, so it doesn't handle with much finesse or brake with the same verve as true sports car rivals; that's the only truly disappointing aspect of the Eclipse if you can get past the tight cabin and slightly overstyled exterior. On the upside, the Eclipse exhibits excellent ride quality.
Stability control is now standard on the Mitsubishi Eclipse for 2010; also included are anti-lock disc brakes, side impact airbags, and side-curtain bags (except on the Spyder). Although the federal government hasn't crash-tested the Eclipse, the model receives top "good" ratings for frontal and side impact protection.
For 2010, a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface and rearview camera system are offered on the GS Sport and GT models; the GS Sport is the pick for those who want the fuel efficiency of the four-cylinder engine but are pulled in by the features on the V-6. A Rockford-Fosgate 650-watt audio system is available as part of the optional Sun & Sound Package on the GS or GT models. Other top options include heated leather seats and automatic climate control.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse isn't particularly agile, but still offers head-turning styling with strong straight-line performance.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse, also consider:
- Honda Accord Coupe
- Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- Ford Mustang
- Chevrolet Camaro
Reason Why:
With its silky V-6 engine and responsive handling, the Honda Accord Coupe feels like it's worth its higher price. The new Hyundai Genesis coupe has a rear-wheel-drive layout and more of a performance focus, with powerful V-6 and turbo four-cylinder engines. And for those looking for a different sort of style, the base V-6 versions of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro both bring crisp retro styling; the Mustang is available as a convertible.
Buying Tip
The Spyder is the more enjoyable of the two body styles; get it with the V-6 and the great-sounding Rockford Fosgate audio system and the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse feels like a more expensive vehicle.
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2010 Mazda CX-9
Experts from TheCarConnection.com have driven the Mazda CX-9 and present you the pros, cons, and firsthand driving impressions on this sporty, spacious crossover vehicle. The editors of TheCarConnection.com have also read a wide range of reviews pertaining to the 2010 Mazda CX-9 in order to compile a full review.
Likes
Enjoyable to drive
Roomy second and third rows
Lean, aggressive exterior
Interior neither too glossy nor too drab
Dislikes
Ride might be too firm for some
Not much cargo space behind the third row
Navigation system
Originally introduced in 2007, the seven-passenger CX-9 crossover is closely related to the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. The 2010 Mazda CX-9 is quite curvy, combining the handling and road manners of a wagon, the ride height and utility of an SUV, and a sporty style that's in line with Mazda's recent zoom-zoom tack.
For 2010, the CX-9 receives slightly different styling at the front, along with redesigned side mirrors, plus additional chrome plating for some instrument panel and door panel edges. The CX-9's interior remains stylish but not too obvious. Overall, the look of the CX-9 is more aggressive and overt compared to other roomy crossover models, yet it doesn't make any reference to off-roading.
The strong, 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 in the 2010 Mazda CX-9 outmuscles most other rival engines, and unlike some others, it doesn't require premium fuel. A smooth, six-speed automatic is standard, and maximum towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. The CX-9 has crisp, responsive handling for a vehicle of its size and weight, though it's not as nimble as Mazda's smaller CX-7 and the ride quality can be too firm for potholed surfaces. But fuel economy remains near the low end of the pack, with an EPA city fuel economy estimate of 17 mpg city. The CX-7 is able to tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Even though the 2010 Mazda CX-9 is just a mid-size offering as far as crossover vehicles go, all three rows are usable, and the front two rows are spacious for even the largest adults. The second row is split 60/40, reclines, or folds flat for cargo duty--although there isn't a tremendous amount of space behind the third row. The interior looks and feels upscale, with pleasing materials and impressive build quality.
The CX-9 is arguably one of the safest vehicles in its class, with top crash-test scores and a host of active and passive safety features now including standard active headrests, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. A blind-spot monitoring system and rear backup camera are optional.
The CX-9 is the best bargain, TheCarConnection.com thinks, in its base-model Sport form, which comes as well-equipped as some luxury-brand crossovers for slightly over $30,000. On the more upscale, leather-trimmed Touring and Grand Touring models, true luxury features are offered. However, fitted with top options like the Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system, a nav system with real-time traffic, and a DVD entertainment system, the bottom line can exceed $40,000--past the price of entry for some luxury-brand crossovers its size.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Mazda CX-9 loves curves more than almost any other roomy crossover, yet has three rows of useful seating.
Other Choices:
If you're interested in the 2010 Mazda CX-9, also consider:
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Honda Pilot
- Subaru Tribeca
- Toyota Highlander
Reason Why:
If roominess trumps everything else, you'll probably want to go straight to the full-size crossovers from General Motors (the Chevrolet Traverse, the closely related Buick Enclave, or the GMC Acadia). These GM models are more spacious, but they don't drive with the same verve as the CX-9. Subaru's Tribeca is probably the closest in overall driving feel--it handles very well for a tall crossover--but its odd styling and cramped third row are going to be a turnoff to some shoppers. Then there's the Honda Pilot, which breaks from the mold with outrageous chunky styling that embraces boxiness and trucklike looks, though it's really a road-oriented crossover. The Pilot performs much like the other vehicles in this group; if you can get past the styling, it's well worth considering. Toyota remains the only one to offer a four-cylinder engine in this class; in the roomy Highlander, the 2.7-liter four has just enough gusto and it's much better on fuel.
Buying Tip
TheCarConnection.com recommends the base 2010 Mazda CX-9 Sport, as it comes very well equipped for about $30,000. At $40,000 for a well-equipped Grand Touring, you could also get into a base Acura MDX or a nicely outfitted 2010 Cadillac SRX.
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2010 Audi A3
The editors at TheCarConnection.com have driven several different models of the Audi A3, including the new 2010 A3 TDI, to provide driving impressions and sum up all the important points in a Bottom Line. Then to include opposing viewpoints and even more detailed information, the experts at TheCarConnection.com put together the adjacent full review.
Likes
Excellent "S tronic" gearbox
Impressive cargo space
Fuel-efficient engine lineup
Dislikes
Artificial-feeling electric power steering
Bluetooth is optional
Options can drive price toward $40,000
Starting to look dated next to the rest of the Audi line
Although the 2010 Audi A3 is based on Volkswagen Rabbit/Golf underpinnings, the A3 is bound to attract performance-minded shoppers, with a sleek fastback-wagon profile, plenty of aggressive styling cues, and big, styling wheel designs, in addition to the large Audi grille. The availability of quattro all-wheel drive remains a major attraction for those in snowy climes.
After a modest restyle for 2009, which included new aluminum-look trim and revamped air vents and audio controls, along with new exterior mirrors, door handles, and wheel designs, the Audi A3 returns for 2010 with a few more appearance changes. The more aggressive look of last year's S line package, including additional detailing and cues, is now standard across the model line. Overall, the 2010 Audi A3 has a now-aging design, but it's been kept current with some attention to the details.
The base engine for the 2010 Audi A3 remains the 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection inline-four; newly available is a 140-horsepower, 2.0-liter clean-diesel four-cylinder engine, in the A3 2.0 TDI model. Offered with either engine is a six-speed manual transmission or S tronic automatic, which uses two clutches to speed up gear changes without involving an actual clutch pedal. With either engine, performance is satisfying, and models with the S tronic get steering-wheel paddle-shifters. Between the two, the TDI engine is narrowly the favorite of TheCarConnection.com's editors, because its engine cranks out heaps of torque, giving it the response of a torquey big-displacement V-6 off the line or in top gear. With either engine, fuel economy is better than average, but it's downright excellent with the TDI; EPA ratings are 30 mpg city, 42 highway with S tronic, and TheCarConnection.com has seen more than 45 mpg in long-haul interstate cruising.
Audi's magnetic ride system is available on the A3. The adaptive-action shock absorber control system uses voltage to electrify a magneto-rheological fluid in the shocks to change their response within milliseconds, allowing the suspension to quickly change character from soft to firm, depending on driving or road conditions. The driver can choose between Normal and Sport programs by flipping a switch.
The 2010 Audi A3 driving experience is a joy in most respects: light, direct, and refined. The ride--especially with the standard suspension--can be somewhat stiff, and the electric power steering doesn't wind and unwind like a traditional hydraulic power steering system would. The A3's turning circle is tightened for improved maneuverability on the 2010 model.
The Audi A3 has a rather small interior, but it's well laid-out and exquisitely crafted. The front standard leather buckets lack the side support needed in such a car and can cause backaches on longer journeys. For a car of this size, rear-seat accommodations are just acceptable, allowing you to squeeze a pair of adults in there--provided the passengers in front don't mind scooting forward an inch or two. The backseats are 60/40-split and fold forward. Cargo space is ample.
The 2010 Audi A3 comes with stability control, as well as front-seat side-impact and head-curtain airbags. Although the A3 is not yet rated by the federal government, it receives top "good" ratings from the IIHS in all occupant protection categories.
Standard equipment on the 2010 Audi A3 is quite good, including fog lamps, automatic climate control, keyless entry, leather upholstery, and a 140-watt, 10-speaker sound system. However, several tech features that are increasingly included on much more affordable cars--like a Bluetooth hands-free interface--remain optional on the A3. The options list is very long, and you can quickly drive the price toward $40,000 if you don't watch it. Highlights include Bluetooth, Bose premium sound, LED running lamps and adaptive headlights, a navigation system, and an iPod integration kit.
The Bottom Line: A fuel-stingy new TDI engine and spruced-up appearance make the 2010 Audi A3 a very fuel-efficient, fun-to-drive, and practical compact choice.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Audi A3, also consider:
- BMW 3-Series wagon
- Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen
- Acura RDX
- Infiniti EX
Reason Why:
If you're in the market for a wagonlike vehicle with sporting pretensions and can spend $30,000, there are some interesting choices outside of the 2009 Audi A3. The 2010 Audi A3 doesn't have a lot of competition in the U.S. market. The BMW 3-Series wagon--especially the fuel-efficient 335d--is one possibility, but it's much more expensive. The Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen is another alternative; it's actually roomier inside and has a better ride, though it's not nearly as sporty as the A3. The Infiniti EX is either a crossover vehicle or tall wagon, depending on how you see it. It has all-wheel drive as an option, but the base car is a rear-driver spun from the hot-handling G35 sedan, one of our favorite luxury sport sedans. Yet another option would be the Acura RDX, a crossover that's powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The RDX has a roomier and better-appointed interior, but it doesn't offer any fuel-efficient engine choices to rival the A3 TDI.
Buying Tip
If you plan to select a lot of options for the 2010 Audi A3 and don't mind moving to a slightly larger vehicle, you might want to consider the 2010 Audi A4 Avant as well.
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2010 GMC Acadia
TheCarConnection.com's editors read the latest reviews on the new 2010 GMC Acadia to write this comprehensive review. Experts from TheCarConnection.com have driven the Acadia, included opinions, and observed details where they aid you in choosing the perfect new crossover vehicle.
Likes
Luxurious look and feel
Spacious interior
Lots of standard features
More carlike than a full-size SUV
Clever options (heated windshield washers!)
Dislikes
Transmission often searches for gears
Hefty 5,000-pound curb weight
Expensive for a nonluxury brand
The 2010 GMC Acadia continues on from last year's model and remains more carlike than traditional truck-based SUVs, especially in handling, but with a very roomy and passenger friendly interior. The Acadia can be ordered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but since there's no two-speed transfer case or four-wheel-drive low range, there really isn't much off-road capability in the 2010 Acadia. But that's OK because the Acadia's not meant to tackle rutted backwoods roads. Instead of off-road capability, the Acadia offers everyday drivability to buyers seeking a roomier, more practical vehicle.
Interior space and well-configured seating are what makes the 2010 GMC Acadia especially appealing. A third-row seat is standard, which yields room for seven or eight people altogether (depending on the configuration). The third row's a real third row, too, and behind it, there's even 20 cubic feet of additional storage space. Plus, folding down the second and third rows of seats yields over 115 cubic feet of space.
The 2010 GMC Acadia comes with a single powertrain, a healthy 288-horsepower V-6 that gets direct injection for 2009, and standard six-speed automatic transmission. This mechanical configuration is the same one found in the 2010 Buick Enclave. Acceleration is good, but the transmission sometimes hunts for the right gear and jostles the Acadia's occupants in the process. EPA estimates give hope for 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models, although that may be a little optimistic.
The GMC Acadia's optional AWD system (which can transmit as much as 65 percent of engine power to the rear wheels as necessary) is plenty for snow days, or muddy back roads on the way to the cabin, but it won't be suitable for full-on off-road adventuring.
The 2010 GMC Acadia comes in three trim levels: SLE-1, SLT-1, and SLT-2. Each comes with the aforementioned 3.6-liter V-6 engine. Standard features for all models include cruise control, full power accessories, front and rear air conditioning, and a full array of airbags. The SLT-1 and SLT-2 trims get a premium 10-speaker Bose system with a six-CD in-dash changer. Features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, power seats, a power rear liftgate, a head-up display (HUD), GPS, a two-panel sunroof, XM NavTraffic, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, backseat DVD entertainment system, and tri-zone automatic climate control are also available as options in the higher trims.
While these options are carried over from the 2009 model, the 2010 GMC Acadia does have some new features available, including new optional 20-inch chrome wheels. Additionally, there is a new USB port located in the center console that can play audio files through the Acadia's sound system, as well as charge certain devices--specifically, it works with your iPod. Other new options include a Cashmere Interior, as well as GMC Yukon Denali-style roof racks.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 GMC Acadia strikes a good balance: more useful than full-size SUVs for passenger duty, yet a lot better-looking than a minivan.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2010 GMC Acadia, also consider:
- Toyota Highlander
- Mazda CX-9
- Honda Pilot
- Ford Flex
Reason Why:
Practically speaking, the Acadia's only direct competitor is the Ford Flex, a crossover vehicle that combines a comparable emphasis on passenger comfort and space with a completely different, boxy style. Like the Acadia, the Flex has a third-row seat that's good enough for smaller adults. The Acadia's powertrain outmuscles Honda's eight-passenger crossover, the Pilot. The Toyota Highlander offers slightly more ruggedness, but it can't match the interior room of the Acadia. The Mazda CX-9 is also worth putting on your list, as it comes close to matching many of the Acadia's people and cargo capabilities, while offering a more enjoyable driving experience.
Buying Tip
The 2010 GMC Acadia shares its mechanical layout with the Saturn Outlook and the Chevrolet Traverse, along with the Buick Enclave. Given GM's restructuring, you might be able to strike an especially good deal on the Outlook--if you can find one.
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2010 Buick Enclave
TheCarConnection.com's editors drove the new Buick Enclave in order to give you an expert opinion. TheCarConnection.com also researched available road tests on the new Buick Enclave to produce this conclusive review and to help you make sense of where and why reviewers might differ.
Likes
Elegant styling
More passenger-friendly than traditional SUVs
Upmarket interior
Well-equipped
Heated windshield included among other options
Dislikes
Hefty curb weight
Transmission "hunts"
Lackluster fuel economy
First introduced back in 2008, the Buick Enclave returns for the 2010 model year in CX and CXL trim with more features but the same 3.6-liter, V-6 direct-injection engine as in 2009. Available in either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, the full-size luxury crossover has seating for eight and lots of cargo room, while delivering 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, according to EPA estimates (although these figures look to be optimistic in light of what TheCarConnection.com's editors have seen).
Inside the Enclave you'll find a combination of subdued yet luxurious styling, with high-quality materials throughout. Buick retained most of the styling elements that made the Enclave a hit as a concept model a few years ago, and the product has largely been well-received from a styling standpoint. In terms of pricing, the 2010 Enclave's retail price is reasonable for this type of vehicle.
Under the hood, the 3.6-liter direct-injection V-6 engine in the 2010 Buick Enclave produces 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, burning regular gasoline. The V-6 is mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission that features automatic grade braking, shift stabilization, and precise shift control. Acceleration in the Enclave is good, but on the highway the transmission can sometimes be caught hunting for the right gear and, in the process, jostling its occupants. That might be because the transmission has wide ratios and is designed to compromise between performance and fuel economy. Towing isn't completely forgotten; the Enclave to tow up to 4,500 pounds--an impressive figure for this type of vehicle.
The Enclave's ride is muted and smooth, resulting in an exceptionally quiet interior compared either to other crossovers or rival GMC Acadia or Chevrolet Traverse versions from GM. A new 20-inch chrome-clad wheel package is now available for the 2010 Buick Enclave, along with optional 19-inch wheels also featured on the 2009 Enclave; as usual, be sure you test drive a model equipped with larger wheels before purchasing, as the ride quality tends to suffer a little.
What makes the 2010 Buick Enclave particularly comfortable is the large interior space. A standard third row and overall space for up to 7 or 8 people (depending on the configuration) make the Enclave a reasonable minivan substitute. The third row's a real third row, too, and not just designed for small children with nonexistent legs. Storage is also plentiful, with over 23 cubic feet of space behind the third row when the cargo management system is removed, and if you fold down the second and third rows, you'll free up over 115 cubic feet of cargo space.
The 2010 Buick Enclave should provide good occupant safety, thanks to its standard front-seat side airbags, full-length side-curtain airbags, and electronic stability control. Top results in all major crash tests affirm the Enclave's excellent overall protection.
In any of its trims, the Buick Enclave comes very well equipped, though the range-topping CXL trims pile on a level of luxury and tech features that might be surprising to see in a Buick. The CXL offers (standard or optional) a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo, three-zone climate control, a power rear liftgate, a head-up display (HUD), GPS, a two-panel sunroof, and a backseat DVD entertainment system. Heated and cooled driver and front-passenger seats, a Bluetooth hands-free phone interface, XM NavTraffic, and OnStar Destination Download are also among the available features. This year, the premium sound system includes a USB port that doubles as a charger for personal electronics, and OnStar has been upgraded to provide vehicle diagnostics and advanced emergency services.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Buick Enclave takes on the Lexus RX 350, yet provides a luxurious, uniquely American interior.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2009 Buick Enclave, also consider:
- Volvo XC90
- Lexus RX 350
- Lincoln MKT
- Audi Q7
- Acura MDX
Reason Why:
The 2010 Buick Enclave provides a new benchmark for American luxury crossovers, and it's a viable rival to other luxury-brand vehicles. The Buick has the most space in its class; the Lincoln MKT comes close, with a beautiful interior and three accommodating rows. Otherwise, only the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 offer three rows of seats, but their last rows are more suited for children than adults. If power is your thing, the Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, and Infiniti RX all offer optional V-8 engines in their crossovers, but these tend to be thirsty when it comes to fuel consumption. The Lexus RX 350 has a conservative interior ambiance that's closest to that of the Enclave, if that's what you like.
Buying Tip
As with most vehicles in this class, the rear pillar can obstruct visibility when parking; we recommend the rearview camera for the 2010 Buick Enclave.
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2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in order to give you an expert opinion. And to bring you more information and opposing viewpoints, the experts at TheCarConnection.com have researched available road tests on the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Likes
V-6 engines are smooth and responsive
Cabin is comfortable and quiet
Sport model competes with the BMW 3-Series
Choice of two distinct looks
Dislikes
Vague steering response
Use of drab plastic in base instrument panel
Needs more backseat legroom
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class features two distinct styles; the Luxury and Sport models cater to different types of C-Class buyers. The two models can be distinguished from afar, especially from the front, due to their very different front-end treatments. Overall, the C-Class is the smallest and most inexpensive model in the Mercedes lineup.
The Sport has no hood ornament but rather a large emblem in the middle of the grille that's body-colored instead of chrome. The Luxury follows Mercedes tradition with the familiar chrome grille and three-pointed-star hood ornament.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sport models also differ from the Luxury by way of lowered, sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, a sport braking system, and dual exhaust. Inside, the Sport's trim is composed of either matte-aluminum or maple wood, while the Luxury features chrome and burl walnut wood. However, the plastics used in the base Sport look somewhat drab.
Both the C300 Luxury and Sport models come with a 228-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 engine, while the C350 Sport gets a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6. The C300 models are available with 4Matic all-wheel drive, a full-time system that reverts to sending 55 percent of power to the rear wheels when more isn't needed at a particular wheel. The C300 has a standard six-speed manual or optional seven-speed automatic, but the C350 can only be had with the automatic.
The exclusive C63 AMG (covered separately by TheCarConnection.com) is the big dog of the 2009 Mercedes C-Class. Its 6.3-liter, V-8 engine produces 451 horsepower, which complements all the additional performance equipment the C63 features, including a sport suspension, Z-rated performance tires, bigger brakes, a sport exhaust, special AMG heated sport seats, a race timer, and plenty of additional appearance upgrades.
The two V-6 engines aren't that different from each other in normal driving, but the additional performance of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C350 is only noticeable during full-throttle acceleration or on the most demanding mountain roads. The seven-speed automatic shifts smoothly, whether using the manual mode or not, and it downshifts quickly and decisively when needed. The C-Class comes equipped with Mercedes' Agility Control suspension, which helps C-Class models stay flat in corners and maintain a well-controlled ride by mechanically adjusting damper settings to reduce body motion during spirited driving and sudden maneuvers, without a sacrifice in ride comfort. The C-Class has crisp steering response compared to former C-Class sedans, thanks in part to a quicker steering ratio, but the steering isn't quite as direct in feel. Of the two models, the Sport allows better handling without any significant decrease in ride quality.
Both the Sport and the Luxury C-Class models have quiet cabins with good isolation from the road, although you hear the engine when accelerating. The backseat is the C-Class' most significant weakness, though. The average adult will find headroom adequate, but legroom is very tight, and unless the front seats are pulled far forward, most will not find the space comfortable.
All 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models come equipped with pelvic airbags that work in conjunction with the dual front-side airbags and side-curtain bags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the C-Class "good" in frontal impact but doesn't test it in other areas. Crash-test performance in the federal government's program is somewhat disappointing for a vehicle from a brand that's known for such high safety standards, with four-star results in frontal protection but five-star ratings in side impact.
Standard on all models is Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, and a twin-panel Panorama sunroof. An available entertainment system brings 4GB of music storage and accepts memory cards; there's also a DVD entertainment system and a voice-activated navigation system with a convenient pop-up display screen. Most options for the 2009 C-Class are grouped into major packages and include heated seats, a rear sunshade, bi-xenon headlamps, and a lighting system with corner-illuminating fog lamps.
The Bottom Line: For the price, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers sportiness, luxury, safety, and creature comforts in an attractive package.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, also consider:
- Audi A4
- Lexus IS
- Infiniti G35
- BMW 3-Series
Reason Why:
Because of the two distinct models, the Sport and the Luxury, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class appeals to two types of buyers. The Luxury model, with its expanded list of standard conveniences, trumps the base Lexus IS model with a better, more balanced driving experience and a quiet interior that allows more generous front seating. The Sport takes a more pronounced turn toward edgier performance-oriented rivals like the 3-Series and G35 without forgetting its luxury base. The Sport provides handling prowess that's nearly as satisfying as the 3-Series and G35, although its steering isn't as sharp as the Infiniti's. The Audi A4 offers an especially frugal yet peppy base engine, a turbocharged four-cylinder in its 2.0T model, and the new 2009 A4 provides a sportier driving experience than before.
Buying Tip
For those lamenting the lack of a four-cylinder C-Class model, the Mercedes E320 CDI BlueTec model is a gas-sipping alternative with a highway fuel efficiency rating of 32 mpg--and more backseat room.
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2009 Porsche 911
TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the Porsche 911 in order to give you an expert opinion. TheCarConnection.com's experts have also researched available road tests on the 2009 Porsche 911 to assess its new features and give light to any opposing viewpoints.
Likes
Fast! With or without Turbo
Unbeatable steering
Wide range of versions
Classic silhouette and style
Dislikes
Too many audio, navigation, and climate control buttons
Rear seats almost nonexistent
For more than 40 years, the Porsche 911 has been thrilling car enthusiasts by constantly raising the performance bar, and 2009 is no different from previous model years. Highlighting the upgrade sheet are new engines for the 911 Carrera Coupe and Carrera Coupe S, as well as the addition of Porsche's seven-speed double-clutch transmission.
The new engines are constructed with a new two-piece crankcase design, and they feature direct fuel injection and Porsche's VarioCam Plus intake-valve timing and lift system. Porsche claims a 6.2 percent increase in horsepower, from 325 to 345 hp, for the standard 3.6-liter engine and an increase in torque from 273 to 288 pound-feet. The larger 3.8-liter engine in the 2009 Porsche Carrera S jumps from 355 horsepower to 385 and an equally impressive improvement in torque to 310 from 295 lb-ft. Top end speeds and 0-60 times for each vehicle are 180 mph and 188 mph, and 4.7 seconds and 4.5 seconds, respectively.
There's a 911 GT3 edition this year with 435 hp and 0-60-mph acceleration of 4.0 seconds, too. The king of the hill is the 911 GT2; with its 3.6-liter flat-six and 530 horsepower, it rockets to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. Fuel economy of all versions ranges from 16/23 mpg to 15/22 mpg, amazing figures for such high-performance cars.
There is no better-steering car on planet than the 911 Porsche; it is simply brilliant and a joy to drive in any scenario. There's no practical way to approach the 911's grip limits on the street--more so for the all-wheel-drive models, which have even wider tires. The ride is always comfortable, and the wheels never seem to be anything except squarely and firmly planted on the pavement. Dual front, side, and curtain airbags are standard, along with Porsche's excellent PSM stability control system.
The Cabriolet versions of the 2009 911s are fitted with an impressively snug top and equipped with a heated glass rear window. Putting the top down is a one-button affair that snugly retracts the whole thing in just a few seconds and sends it back up in a few more.
Porsche offers a staggering array of options and custom features, including an active suspension, ceramic brakes, 19-inch wheels, and leather trim for nearly every surface. The rear seats on any 911, however, are token gestures, not even large enough for small children.
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Porsche 911 is in a class of its own, and if you have your heart set on one, there's very little else to compare it to.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Porsche 911, also consider:
- Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
- Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
- Jaguar XKR
Reason Why:
The 2009 Porsche 911's terrific performance and looks are unmatched. The most powerful Chevrolet Corvette ever, the 638-horsepower ZR1, is a stout contender to Porsche's muscular 911 GT2. The AMG version of Mercedes-Benz's SL roadster retains the folding hardtop and stuffs in a V-8 with 538 horsepower. The Jaguar XKR comes close--with larger rear seats, an even sexier profile, and a much more lavish interior.
Buying Tip
The Porsche 911 offers a staggering array of optional colors, custom finishes, and drivetrains, and if you want the highest level of customization, you can custom-order one.
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2009 Honda Accord Coupe
TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the Honda Accord Coupe in order to give you an expert opinion in this Bottom Line. The auto experts at TheCarConnection.com also researched available road tests on the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe to help you find opposing viewpoints and other helpful observations.
Likes
V-6 engine and six-speed transmission
Sharp handling
Comfortable interior
Dislikes
Bland styling
Hard to access rear seats
Criticizing a car with decent looks, good fuel economy, impressive performance, and a great reputation for satisfaction is difficult, and the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe meets all those criteria. Considering that the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe is one of the most satisfying vehicles you can own, TheCarConnection.com's editors struggled to find some dislikes.
The Accord Coupe received a brand-new look last year and completely different body panels from the four-door. The coupe looks to be in a constant state of motion because of the bold character line sweeping from front wheels to rear lamps and the sexy curve of its roof, which also imbue the Accord Coupe with a sleek, modern profile. The new Accord's cockpit is definitely among the best, too; the dashboard is laid out in a sort of dual-cockpit mode, and gauges and controls are particularly well placed.
The base 2009 Honda Accord Coupe comes standard with a 190-hp inline four and a choice of five-speed manual or automatic. The upgraded engine is a beefy, 3.5-liter V-6. It hits a solid 268 horsepower and comes with either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Honda's powertrains are gems, and the V-6 Coupe is a particularly happy performer, with acceleration times of about eight seconds to 60 mph and 19/28 mpg fuel economy (the four-cylinder gets 22/31 mpg).
Honda engineers have lowered the Accord Coupe's center of gravity. And not leaving well enough alone, engineers also modified the double-wishbone front suspension geometry, while choosing a multilink setup for the rear. Combined with standard 18-inch wheels, the result is a very supple suspension package that seems to soak up bumps almost imperceptibly, without numbing its road feel. The variable gear ratio steering is precise and supple, with a clear, on-center feel.
The 2009 Accord Coupe has seats that are both sporty and comfortable over long distances, and they feature an expanded range of motion. The larger cabin doesn't mean backseats are more easily accessible, but there is more space between front-seat occupants and a larger center armrest. The 2009 Honda Accord Coupe is available with XM Satellite Radio, a navigation system, and Bluetooth.
The 2009 Honda Accord Coupe is an IIHS Top Safety Pick, and NHTSA rates it at five stars for crash protection, save for a four-star rating for passenger side impacts. Anti-lock brakes, six airbags, and active head restraints are standard.
The Bottom Line: Though it might not be the most exciting coupe, strong V-6 performance, good fuel economy, and a great interior make the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe one of TheCarConnection.com's top-rated vehicles for 2009.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Honda Accord Coupe, also consider:
- Nissan Altima Coupe
- Toyota Camry Solara
Reason Why:
The Nissan Altima Coupe is a new entry in the market, and it sports four- and six-cylinder engines and a profile that reminds TheCarConnection.com's editors of the late Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The Toyota Camry Solara is based on the four-door Camry and has much softer handling than the Accord Coupe. It's due to be replaced after the 2009 model year. Both cars are coupes derived from front-drive, Japanese-brand sedans.
Buying Tip
Adding the V-6 engine, leather upholstery, and the navigation system will easily put the 2009 Honda Accord past the $30,000 line. Whether you go for the basic model or splurge, the Accord Coupe will have a high resale value.
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2009 Audi A3
TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the new Audi A3 in order to give you an expert opinion in this quick Bottom Line summing up all the important points. Then for even more detailed information and to include opposing viewpoints, the experts at TheCarConnection.com have researched available road tests in a comprehensive full review.
Likes
Great roadholding
S-line transmission is top-notch
Cargo room galore
Choice of engines
Dislikes
Styling could be better
Retail prices can surpass $30,000
Electric power steering feels artificial
The lineage of the A3 Audi can be traced to the Volkswagen Rabbit, but the A3 sports tighter styling, a sleeker roofline, and most importantly, a big Audi four-ringed grille up front.
For 2009 Audi restyled both the exterior and interior of the A3. Inside, designers gave the A3 a sportier atmosphere with air vents that have an aluminum look and audio controls that also receive a modern makeover. It's one of the best interiors Audi currently makes: ergonomically flawless and exquisitely crafted. Never really a good-looking vehicle in a conventional sense, the Audi A3 is striking enough to make you do a wide-eyed double take if you saw one on the street. The new exterior features mirrors with integral turn signals, as well as new wheels and door handles. Headlamps feature a curved trim element, and daytime running lights are now standard.
Another new facet of the 2009 A3 is Audi's magnetic ride system. The adaptive-action shock absorber control system uses voltage to electrify a magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers and change its flow properties within milliseconds, thus shifting its damping characteristics from supple to firm. The driver can choose between Normal and Sport programs by flipping a switch.
Propelling the 2009 A3 is either a standard 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection inline-four or an optional 3.2-liter, 250-hp V-6. The four-cylinder utilizes either a six-speed manual transmission or S-line automatic, which uses two clutches to speed up gear changes without involving an actual clutch pedal. It's a brilliant innovation that is becoming more widely available from other brands. The bigger engine is offered with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system and the S-line gearbox; it'll accelerate to 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. Seventeen-inch wheels and tires are standard, with 18-inch rims optional.
Either version of the A3 feels like a true Audi in most every sense: light, direct, and refined. The ride can be somewhat stiff, and the electric power steering doesn't wind into a corner like a traditional hydraulic power steering system would. With either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive in V-6 versions, the Audi A3 is a competent machine on the road.
For a car of this size, rear seat accommodations are acceptable, allowing you to squeeze a pair of adults in there--provided the passengers in front don't mind scooting forward an inch or two. The front standard leather buckets lack the side support needed in such a car and can cause backaches on longer journeys. The trunk is very large.
The 2009 Audi A3 comes with stability control, as well as front-seat side-impact and head-curtain airbags. Options include Bluetooth, a navigation system, Sirius Satellite Radio, and an iPod integration kit.
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Audi A3 is more than a spruced-up VW hatchback, thanks to the fabulous interior, S-tronic transmission, and V-6 bark.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Audi A3, also consider:
- Infiniti EX
- BMW 3-Series wagon
- Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen
Reason Why:
Look to Japan and the Infiniti EX has all-wheel drive as an option, but the base car is a rear-driver spun from the hot-handling G35 sedan, one of our favorite luxury sport sedans. A traditional wagon such as the BMW 3-Series or the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen might not include all-wheel drive, but each has more cargo room than the more compact Audi A3--and in the Jetta's case, a coming diesel option. If you're in the market for a wagonlike vehicle with sporting pretensions and can spend $30,000, there are some interesting choices outside of the 2009 Audi A3.
Buying Tip
Although a TDI diesel option was originally rumored for later in the 2009 model year, you'll need to wait for the 2010 model for that.
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