Personal Picks: Gas-saving sedans

This month’s group couldn’t be timelier. With gas hovering at $4.00, all of us at Auto Test and the CR Autos Editorial group are being bombarded with questions from friends, neighbors, and readers about finding a more fuel-efficient car. As the Ratings (available to subscribers) show, overall fuel economy ranged from thrifty 32 mpg for the Toyota Corolla to a so-so 24 mpg for the Chevrolet Cobalt.

Here’s a look at our Personal Picks for cars with slow-moving fuel gauges.

Tom Mutchler: Two little letters here make a big difference: SE. With the addition of stability control, larger tires, and a telescoping steering wheel, the Hyundai Elantra SE scores considerably better than our well-liked Elantra GLS. It just goes to show what good dynamics can do for a car. Hopefully, shoppers using our Top Pick list or the July-issue road test pay attention and buy the SE instead of the more popular GLS. Getting the top-grade SE won’t break the bank either: with incentives, you can buy an automatic Elantra SE for under $16,000.

Sure, a Honda Civic is more fun to drive, but the Elantra is quieter, rides better, and has stability control that most Civics lack. (Note to Honda: You’re falling behind in that regard.) The Elantra’s dashboard doesn’t look like it was taken from a Klingon interceptor, either.

That said, if I was plunking down my own money for a car in this price range, it would be a hatchback. That body style adds cargo hauling flexibility with very little downside. So for now, I’m recycling last month’s Personal Picks—a Mazda3s hatchback or VW Rabbit. But the Elantra SE’s qualities have me looking forward to the fall introduction of the Elantra Touring (read: wagon).

Rick Small: These small sedans are enjoying a surge in popularity due to the ever-rising gas prices, but they are not all created equal, nor fit my needs. The Subaru Impreza is a nice car but only comes in AWD, which hurts fuel economy. Plus, the driving position doesn’t fit my tall body as well as some. The Hyundai Elantra SE is very nice, has a long warranty, and good fuel economy. The Toyota Corolla gets very good fuel economy but, again, I don’t fit in it so well. The Ford Focus has lost some of its grip and with it went braking distances and its once wonderful fun-to-drive factor. The Focus’ driving position is decent for tall drivers, but it has no rear headrests--a serious safety omission. The Saturn Astra has a nice ride, but it is slow responding and fuel economy falls short for this class. Of this group, I like the Volkswagen Rabbit the best. It feels more solid and sporty than the others here, plus it has a good driving position for taller people. I also really like the Mini but not this Clubman version. It does provide a little more room in the back but I dislike the split rear doors and big blind spot they create. The bigger Mini’s handling is not as crisp as the other versions, either. The Base or S are a blast to drive, get very good fuel economy and -- surprisingly -- have a very good driving position for tall drivers. The back seat is petty much for storage or very small passengers. Fuel economy for all these models are pretty good here, but if you want even more mpg get the manual transmission version.

For more on this gas-saving sedans test group, read the road tests and watch our car review videos.

Personal picks: Hatchbacks

This month's group almost seems like a blast from the past. Hatchbacks are back and we are excited about driving them because of their combination of pretty good fuel economy and versatile cargo carrying capacities. Many of my colleagues have owned hatchbacks in the past. Here's a look at their picks:

Tom Mutchler: We heard it from family members and friends. We even heard it from contractors visiting the track. People see this group of hatchbacks and say, "Wow, you're testing a group of #@$%boxes this month." Sales figures of these hatchbacks versus their sedan counterparts hint that many Americans feel the same way.

But my fellow engineers at the track and I bristle at the dismissal of these logical cars. They do an awful lot of things right. They get good fuel economy, they can haul a wide variety of cargo, safety equipment is up to snuff, and the best ones can even be fun to drive. All this for not much money. In fact, before this group of cars, my top choice for "If I Had to Buy a Brand New Car Today, What Would I Buy?" was a Mazda3s Grand Touring hatch.

But the VW Rabbit vies for my affections and theoretical dollars. The Rabbit is fun to drive, comfortable, and has better crash-test data and a more substantial feel than the nimble Mazda. I really like that the Rabbit defies the logic that all German-designed cars must have inscrutable controls (Exhibit A: the Saturn Astra. Exhibit B: the Mini.)

Only one misgiving: having owned a VW, my attitude toward the company’s overall reliability history is "once bit, twice shy." The reliability charts for older VWs show that, as those cars aged, reliability went super bad. Hopefully the Rabbit can shake this history…

Gene Petersen: I love hatchbacks. My first brand new car was a three-door Honda Accord hatchback, the only way you could get one back in 1978. I would fold down the rear seats and use it like a station wagon to carry lumber, garden supplies, or move smaller pieces of furniture. This new crop of hatchbacks reminds of the versatility of that old Accord, plus these cars have four doors for getting passenger out of the rear seat in a respectable manner. My choice here is the Mazda3. It offers versatility, is roomy for four adults, and has a sporty flair that makes it fun to drive. It's also well finished, nicely styled inside and out and gets a respectable 25 mpg with the 2.3 liter engine and five-speed automatic. In this age of $4.00 gasoline, it may be time for me to consider a hatchback again…

Gabe Shenhar: It's too bad the Volkswagen Golf (sorry, Rabbit) isn't available with the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine attached to the DSG (automated manual) transmission. On second thought, it does exist, only then it's not a Rabbit anymore—it's called the GTI. Such a combo would give me greater agility, punch and fun-to-drive quotient as well as versatility and affordability. But I already had my GTI days in the 1980s (I owned two of them), so it’s time to move on. Besides, we’ve classified the GTI as a sporty car, so I better re-gear for the hatchbacks at hand.

Both the Rabbit and the Mazda3 hatchback possess similar driving characteristics: agile handling, decent ride and some zip in their acceleration. Both also have comfortable seats and interiors that are solid and pleasant and make you feel like you are surrounded by a nicer environment than is typical for the class. However, the Rabbit's standard 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine sounds too coarse for me and it doesn’t help that it has a relatively big thirst for fuel. The Mazda's 2.3-liter four-cylinder has a sweeter nature to it and sounds happier when it’s revved. So I’m leaning toward the Mazda3. And then there’s the likelihood of the Golf (woops—did it again—Rabbit) having more problems over several years then the Mazda3. But then again, the Rabbit has better IIHS crash test results than the Mazda3.

This has become a much bigger dilemma now, so I think I'll go with the Mini Cooper. All the Minis (S, non-S or Clubman) are a blast to drive. They look like nothing else and ooze charm and character. Good fuel economy is an extra bonus.

Rick Small: These small models are enjoying a surge in popularity due to the ever rising gas prices. The Subaru Impreza is a nice car but only comes in AWD, hurting fuel economy, and the driving position doesn’t fit my tall body as well as some others. The Saturn Astra has a nice ride, but it is slow responding and fuel economy falls short for this class. Of this group, I like the Volkswagen Rabbit the best. It feels more solid and sporty than the others here and has a good driving position for taller people. I also really like the Mini but not this Clubman version. While the "bigger" Mini does provide a little more room in the back, I dislike the split rear doors and big blind spot they create. The Clubman's handling is not as crisp as the other Mini versions, either. The Base or Mini S are a blast to drive, get very good fuel economy and (surprisingly) have a very good driving position for tall drivers like me. The back seat is petty much for storage or very small passengers, though. Fuel economy for this group is pretty good, but if you want even more mpg get the manual transmission.

Mike Quincy: My first new car was a 1987 Honda Civic Si. It was a three-door hatchback, got great fuel economy, and was more fun to drive than the car I replaced it with—a 1985 Mazda RX-7. To this day, it was one of the best cars I ever owned. Hence, I have a soft-spot in my heart for these little hatches. I think the Mini Cooper (Base model, manual transmission) comes closest to the fun and value of my original Honda. And while it's small inside, it doesn't drive that way. It's not too noisy, the ride is tolerable, and it overflows with personality. The Clubman is almost practical, but its styling seems just a bit out of proportion. Go easy with options and the Mini is affordable. Go nuts and you wind up shelling out money that could buy a larger, more comfortable car. Like I said: Base model Mini Cooper is the way to go.

Personal picks: sports sedans, part 2

Continuing our staff's personal insights into the March-issue upscale sedans test group.

Rick Small: I like most of the cars in this group. The new Cadillac CTS handles well and is now very competitive with the European sedans. The BMW 328i feels sporty, but I feel it’s not as sporty as the last generation. Plus, the 3 Series controls are needlessly awkward. My tall frame is still cramped in the front, and the back seat if for small kids only. For me, the Infiniti G35 really stands out as a sporty and fun car to drive – it’s also a good value. It has great road feel and a firm but sporty ride that isn’t punishing. The powerful V6 delivers strong performance, sounds great, and is quicker than many V8s. Fuel economy is decent considering the high level of performance. The AWD version is a little less sporty and uses a bit more fuel; I’d go with the rear-wheel drive model and get a set of good snow tires for the winter. I still also like the Acura TL, it has a good combination of luxury and sport and a better driving position than most in this class. Other good choices are the roomy Nissan Maxima, and less expensive Altima. Likewise, a Honda Accord V6 comes close to the Acura for less money.

Mike Leung: I felt the last generation Mercedes-Benz C230 Sport that we tested was better in every regard than the newer one we just tested. The old one had better controls and a superior driving experience. Plus, it was more comfortable and better looking.

That being said, in this category, the Infiniti G35 still reigns supreme when you take cost into account.  Even if you don’t take cost into account, the G’s performance is easily as good as the competition and it’s generally more reliable.

Mike Quincy: I agree with Mike Leung—the last C-Class was better than the new one, which seems to have lost an edge not only in performance but also in styling. And while I’m an admitted fan of Saabs, the V6-powered 9-3 Aero’s $37,000 price is simply too dear, with its cramped backseat and mediocre fuel economy (only 20 mpg, overall).

I think the star of this category is the rear-wheel-drive Infiniti G35. It combines excellent steering, a fabulous engine and transmission, and simple controls. It’s a sports sedan when you want it to be, as well as a (mostly) quiet and comfortable luxury car when you’re in the mood for a relaxing cruise. I also like the Lexus IS 350 (deceivingly fast, nice interior, great reliability) but at $44,000 fully optioned, it’s way over the price of all of the models in this group. And hat’s off to GM for actually producing a car that I’d consider buying: the new CTS is the only Cadillac in my lifetime that I wouldn’t be embarrassed to own. I’m WAY too young to be of the generation when Cadillac was considered “the world’s standard.” The brand was never an aspiration of mine (nor for any of my friends, family and neighbors). But the CTS has more than style: it’s quite substantive and a pleasure to drive.

There’s a lot to like about all the cars in this category. (Really, there wasn’t a “dog” in the test group). Consider yourself lucky if this is a car category in which you can shop.

For more on this sports sedan group, read the road tests and Personal picks: sports sedans, part 2, and also watch our car review videos.

Personal Picks - Family sedans

The February-issue family sedan test group represented the vehicle type that, still, many people buy. Sedans remain such good sellers because most combine decent handling, interior room, and fuel economy and low noise levels. Not every car company carries monstrous SUVs, wicked-fast sports cars, or pickup trucks, but almost all sell a variety of sedans.

This group included our first test of the redesigned Honda Accord (both 4-cylinder and V6 versions), as well as a handful of larger sedans, including the Ford Taurus and Kia Amanti.

Here are the personal picks from the Auto Test Center:

Rick Small: My favorite family sedans continue to be the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. Being the tallest auto test engineer (at 6' 4"), they fit me well. The Altima has one of the best driving positions for tall people, because of the generous head and leg room. Also, both are sportier than most family sedans. The Altima four-cylinder model with the CVT delivers better performance than many V6 family sedans, and its fuel economy is among the best. The V6 versions of both the Accord and Altima are quick and responsive, and they deliver respectable fuel economy. I also like the Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan sedans; they also have a sporty feel and good performance.

Gabe Shenhar: Although, technically, the Nissan Altima outscores the Honda Accord, I'd go with the Accord. The Altima, with its CVT, optimizes fuel economy and acceleration, but to me the Accord is both a more satisfying drive and a roomier family sedan -- not to mention it's better looking. The Accord also comes with standard stability control, which is a major safety advantage. You can't even get that on a four-cylinder Altima that's not a hybrid. An Altima V6 with stability control easily shoots past $30K. So, if you're asking my advice, I'd get an Accord EX either with the four-cylinder or V6.

But why be such a conformist? Who says you can't think outside the box? A Volkswagen Jetta GLI, with the wonderful DSG transmission (a manual that shifts like an automatic, but with a great soundtrack), could serve both my family and sporty driving needs. It's essentially a GTI with a huge trunk.

Tom Mutchler: A wealth of great choices means that this is a great time to be in the market for a family sedan. The Nissan Altima has an amazing blend of acceleration and fuel economy. Even though Internet Toyota Camry-bashing (some of it deserved, based on reliability issues) has become such a game that it will likely be an exhibition sport at the next Olympics, the Camry remains a very quiet, comfortable, and efficient car.

Those cars score well in our tests, but I want a family sedan to do it all. I want enjoyable handling (something the Camry lacks). I want easy-to-get (if not standard) stability control—tough with the Altima. So, out of this month's group, that adds up to the Honda Accord. I'm impressed by the Accord's great driving position, generous visibility, huge rear seat, standard stability control, and entertaining handling. (I'd get a loaded EX-L four-cylinder instead of our LX-P or EX-L V6, though.) But the Accord isn't perfect: it drives me nuts that you don't get a temperature display unless you get leather and you can't get a trip computer. Plus, Honda can develop a business jet but can't seem to conquer road noise. And what's with the cheapo gooseneck hinges that crush ill-placed luggage? Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Malibu handles well, has less road noise, and has all of those little trinkets—temperature display, trip computer, classy scissor-hinges in the trunk—that the Accord lacks.

Mike Quincy: Last year, I chose the Accord because of its combination of good steering, excellent fuel economy and rock-solid reliability history. Thankfully, Honda didn't mess with such good DNA for the new Accord. It still drives like a car that you'd think cost thousands more. It still looks good and does nearly everything well. I drove our V6 model to Saratoga Springs last fall and (despite some road noise) came away deeply impressed. Yes, this is a car I could drive every day.

Personal picks: 3-row SUVs

This month’s test group, 3-row SUVs, covered a segment often cited as the family vehicle of choice for many suburban families. The reason? Three-row SUVs have near-minivan practicality but with an adventurous, truck-like appearance. Several staffers here at the track praise minivans as the single, best family vehicle of all time. Yet, at least in my kid-filled neighborhood, I hear parents say over and over, “I know minivans are practical, but I just can’t see myself as a minivan driver.”

Along with 3-row SUVs, we also tested the redesigned Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans. Neither impressed us very much and didn’t come close to unseating the perennial top-scoring Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey.

Here are our picks for this month:

Rick Small: My choice here is the Honda Pilot. Being the tallest auto tester (I'm 6’ 4”), I appreciate the roomy, comfortable driving position with ample leg and head room. The Pilot is reliable and has a responsive drivetrain. It also has more car-like in handling and ride than many SUVs in this class. It excels in utility by having three rows of seats and being able to carry 4x8 building materials. Finally, it has a decent towing capacity. I would also consider the new Mazda CX-9, since it also has three rows of seats and feels sporty for its size. Its driving position is also roomy. The new Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia is also worth a look, but the drivetrain tends to shift gears more often than I like.

Gabe Shenhar: After our July ’07 group of upscale SUVs, my choice was the Acura MDX. But in this category of mid-priced $30,000-$40,000 models, it’s not so clear-cut anymore. Now I would probably choose the Honda Pilot, since it feels very similar to the MDX but costs a whole lot less. Plus, this way I would be putting my money where my mouth is—I’ve recommended the Pilot to several of my friends and neighbors. (They’re still my friends, by the way.) But the Pilot’s redesign is right around the corner —the 2009 redesign arrives in early summer 2008—and I’m hoping Honda does away with the column shifter, which was the only thing that bugged me about the Pilot.

Tom Mutchler: My family has owned Buicks in the past—my first car was a hand-me-down 1981 Buick Electra. I also drove my dad’s ‘86 Park Avenue to my prom. So driving our Buick Enclave creates something of a disconnect for me, as it is a clear sign of how so-very-far Buick (and GM) has come. This big SUV looks great, inside and out, and handles quite well. I took our Enclave to Pennsylvania with our kayaks in the minivan-like cargo area and found it to be a wonderfully quiet and relaxing way to travel.

Well, mostly. I also drove our Enclave to Lime Rock Park race track for a Skip Barber driving class. There’s nothing relaxing about how the 3.6-liter V6 has to struggle to keep the 5100-lb Enclave at speed on hills. Despite having the transmission reprogrammed, it still has to frequently shift two or three gears to keep up, creating big jumps in engine rpm that break the calm and frustrate the driver. Several of my fellow staff members consider this a deal-breaker. A bit of advice: if you’re considering one of GM’s excellent Lambda SUVs (Enclave/Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia) and you live where there are hills, make sure your test drive ventures from the straight and flat. Rumor has it that GM will add the more powerful direct-injection version of this engine at some point—it needs it STAT.

So what would I pick? The Toyota Highlander is very, very competent, but I find it downright boring. Same goes for the Ford Taurus X. Sure, the cramped Subaru Tribeca is enjoyable to drive. But the stylish Mazda CX-9 has more room and an earlier trip on the back roads to Lime Rock showed that it’s ready for the hills and curves. (Pity about the below average reliability, though.)

Mike Quincy: Since all these models make fairly decent family vehicles, I spent a lot of time in all of them. My young sons loved the rear-seat DVD player in the Ford Taurus X that we drove to Maine. I appreciated the Subaru Tribeca’s handling on some of CT’s beautiful back roads en route to the Fall Vintage Festival at Lime Rock Park. And the Buick Enclave’s cavernous cargo area has made holiday shopping a snap. All of them are remarkably adequate, but none (especially the top-scoring Toyota Highlander) are engaging. However, I like the approach GM is taking with the Enclave/Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia. With a bit more horsepower under the hood and better transmission performance, these, to me, are the ones to beat. And if GM could put a torquey turbo-diesel engine in them, the bummer of the standard V6’s 15 mpg overall might be solved.

Personal Picks: Small SUVs

This month’s group of Small SUVs takes us away from the gargantuan monsters, like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Durango and Ford Expedition, and instead introduced us to a few smaller, new and redesigned models. All are competitively priced (around $23,000 for the Kia Sportage to almost $28,000 for the Saturn Vue), and none dipped below 17 mpg overall. The big SUVs mentioned above only get from 12-14 mpg. The smaller models are also somewhat agile, easy to park, and simple to live with. Naturally, their size doesn’t suit everyone’s needs. But if you don’t require three-row seating or huge towing capacities, you might take a look at a smaller ‘Ute.

Here’s what we like:

Gabe Shenhar: In the small SUV class, provided you’re not going to tackle the Rubicon Trail  every weekend, it’s almost a no-brainer. Although I like the BMW X3 for its agility and compact dimensions, it's typical $42,000 or so price point takes it out of the class we’re talking about. I always had a soft spot for the Toyota RAV4 (available to online subscribers) ever since it pioneered the category in 1996. The latest generation, however, really takes it to another level. It looks good, rides and handles well, has many thoughtful interior features, and is roomy inside without being bulky. And, with the optional V6, the car is really transformed. It’s quick, smooth and quiet, sprinting to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds—even with the added weight of the AWD system. And, ready for this? It gets 22 mpg overall (just like the previous generation Toyota Highlander Hybrid); what an amazing combo! So, if I were to replace my family car today, the RAV6, as we call it here, would be a top contender. It’s not for nothing that it’s CR’s top-rated small SUV.

Rick Small: For me, the Toyota RAV4 is a bit more comfortable and more fun to drive than most of the others in our December test, and with a V6 model you can tow 3,500 pounds if needed. The Honda CR-V is also nice—it’s much improved over the previous model. For my tall frame, though, I was most comfortable in the Ford Escape, but the dated driveline and interior trim take it off my list. The new competitively priced Kia Sportage is also a worth a consideration; it has a very nice interior and delivers a competent ride and handling. Nissan has just come out with the Rogue, which will offer some fresh competition for these. We have our test model and will be putting it thorough its paces shortly. One other consideration: The new AWD Suzuki SX4 offers some stiff competition for fans of Subarus. I was comfortable in the SX4; it’s very well equipped, competitively priced and worth a look.

Gene Petersen: What is a small SUV nowadays? Hard to tell based on size alone. Or is it price that differentiates them? And when is it an SUV vs. a tall wagon or hatchback? From my perspective, I’m looking for something with AWD that’s reasonably priced (cheap), seats at least four adults reasonably comfortably, and has good cargo space—including the versatility of expanding the cargo area with fold-down rear seats. Can I name one? No, but I can name a bunch that would suit my needs. The Subaru Forester tops my list (confession: I own one). It just does everything I need it to do, though rear-seat room could be more spacious. Others that I would consider are the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and the Kia Sportage.If I had to replace the Forester today, I might consider the Toyota RAV4 for its slightly better fuel economy and roomier rear-seat area. The Honda is right up there, too, but it’s a little less fuel efficient; the Hyundai’s and Kia’s fuel consumption is unimpressive in this class, too.

Tom Mutchler: Sure, I know that small SUVs are all the rage. They’re practical and stuff. But I just can’t really find one that gets me all that excited. Based on the early rave reviews for the Saturn Vue, I thought that one would break the mold—but I don’t find it that fun to drive and the front seats are lousy. (Almost all of my colleagues agree about the seats.) Despite the Toyota RAV4 V6’s excellent combination of fuel economy and acceleration, I just can’t get comfortable in the seats. (Not many of my colleagues agree there.) A Hyundai Santa Fe isn’t all that small. The Honda CR-V is very practical and efficient, but I want a bit more power. (We’ll see how the Nissan Rogue works out when we test it later this year.) Finally, my last small SUV Personal Pick, the Subaru Forester XT Sports, is a touch loud and rowdy for me. So, another month of Personal Picks yields another station wagon. A Subaru Outback XT Limited gives me a quieter interior than the Forester; rides better; has seats that fit me like a glove; provides plenty of cargo room; and has a low roof for loading my kayaks. Fuel economy, based on our tested Legacy GT’s 18 mpg overall, isn’t great, but it’s quite fast and handles well.

Mike Leung: I WANT to choose the Nissan Murano… it’s the answer to everything SUV. But since some editors in Yonkers (ahem) get tired of us answering every “which one would you buy” question with the Murano, next on my short list of small SUVs is the Toyota RAV4 V6. It’s really quick, handles competently, and is quite comfortable while still delivering 22 mpg. Honorable mention: While I wouldn’t categorize it as an SUV, the Suzuki SX4 was actually quite nice. Also, the Kia Rondo was very versatile and easy to drive.

Mike Quincy: I haven’t really changed my mind about this category since the last time we gave them a look—the Hyundai Santa Fe is still my #1. However, now we know its predicted reliability (it’s average), so we can recommend it. The Toyota RAV4 V6 is also really nice. But, for about $30,000, both aren’t really a great value. I could envision saving a little money and going for a Nissan Xterra (a tough truck, but still somewhat livable); or I could see saving a LOT of money and putting another perennial favorite in my garage: the 5-door Mazda3 Grand Touring. I realize the Mazda gives up a lot of cargo room compared to the Hyundai or Nissan, but I could get a fully-loaded model for just over $24,000—and the 3’s better fuel economy numbers would continuously convince me that it was a smarter buy than any small SUV. I’m with Tom Mutchler on this one: wagons rock.

Personal Picks: Luxury sedans

This month's test groups allow us to visit the rarified field of luxury sedans. The prices--ranging from $45,700 (Infiniti M35) to $90,200 (Mercedes-Benz S550)--are so far out of reach for "normal" people that a few of wondered if these cars could possibly live up to expectations. Is $50,000 too much to spend on a car? Sales figures show there are thousands of consumers with the cash (or a fairly substantial credit rating) to buy or lease them. We measured, tested, and rated collection of such cars, reporting in the November issue and online.

Now, it is time again for our intrepid engineers and editors to answer the daunting question: Which one would you want in your garage? Our initial answers are below, with more to follow in a future post. We look forward to reading your thoughts in the Comments and in the Cars forum.

Rick Small: In this class, I like the Infiniti M35 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. I was never a diesel fan, but the new E320 BlueTec is a very nice car--it has no diesel smell, plenty of performance, and none of the usual diesel clatter that you're used to hearing. In fact, both the E320 and E350 are a pleasure to drive, with a fine combination of sporty ride and handling, good isolation, and quiet interiors. The M35 is even sportier and delivers more road feel for the enthusiast. All of these now are more of a driver's car than the BMW 5 Series, which seems to be losing its niche. The big Mercedes-Benz S550 is a wonderful car that does every thing well, but is just too cost prohibitive for most. Plus, Mercedes' reliability leaves much to be desired. The M35 will save you money and is more reliable. For even less money, the Infiniti G35 delivers fun, agile performance. I also would be very happy with the sporty Acura TL, which is very reliable, a good value, and has a better driving position for taller people than most of the more expensive models here.

Gabe Shenhar: I may be a minority opinion here, but our top-rated midsized luxury car, the Infiniti M35, doesn't feel special enough to me despite its many virtues. My gripes stem from the M's ride and noise isolation, which aren't on par with the comparable Mercedes and BMW models.

I think the E-Class is truly an impressive car, whether you choose the E320 diesel or E350 gas model. It also looks good and is really worth more than the sum of its parts. But, alas, I personally don't perceive of myself as a Mercedes-Benz owner. And I don't see myself in one of the two super-luxury cruisers we tested, the Lexus LS 460 and Mercedes S550. Both are impressive in their own right, but neither appeal to me at this phase of my life. They are just too large and ostentatious for my humble needs.

That leaves the BMW 5 Series. [Now there's a car for "humble needs" - Ed.]. Not that the car is flawless, but the 535i would be my choice. The 300-hp, twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder makes for a peach of an engine; the turbo is so well-integrated that you never know it's there. The agility and the feedback of the handling, ride control, interior quality, and seat comfort are all BMW. This car cooperates no matter your mood: It can be a docile cruiser with its quiet interior and supple ride, or, when the shifter is slapped into manual mode and the stability control turned off, the car is game for being sporty and involving. (See our BMW video for a demonstration.) Unfortunately, I'd have to deal with iDrive.

Personal Picks: Midsized SUVs, part 2

Our staff shares personal insights, and selections, inspired by the midsized SUV test featured in the August Consumer Reports.

Rick Small: These car-based SUVs are pretty nice vehicles--I like them better than the much more expensive ones we tested in July.  In this group, the Saturn Outlook is nice, but it felt a bit too big and sluggish to me. The Hyundai Veracruz is a quiet, well-rounded choice, but I don't fit in it that well and it feels less sporty than most. Overall, I like the Mazda CX-9 best. It has the best driving position for my tall frame, good rear seat room, and a useable and accessible third-row seat. Yet, with all this room, it still feels nimble. On the inside, it looks, feels and sounds better than the Ford Edge and the more expensive Lincoln MKX--which are all based on the same platform. The 3.5-liter V6 delivers lively performance and decent fuel economy and it can tow 3,500 pounds. It does everything I need it to do.

Gene Petersen: The Saturn Outlook is one that GM nailed right out of the box. It looks like an upscale SUV inside and out, but is reasonably priced. I must admit, though: I was a bit leery at first since the old Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT was not that exciting. GM pulled out all the stops on this one and included their "high feature" 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed transmission, resulting in fairly spry and refined performance. Granted the transmission could use some re-tuning, but it still works generally well. Ride and handling are carlike, too. Fuel economy is not a high point, but it's better than some of the competition and shines when compared to GM's truck-based SUVs like the Tahoe. And I would tell anyone considering a Tahoe to cross-shop this one--particularly if you don't need to tow more than 4,500 pounds (or you don't tow at all). Let's hope reliability will be at least average. Maybe this is the start of good things to come from GM.

Mike Quincy: A little bird told me that there's an editor in CR's home office who's tired of Auto Test staffers continually praising the Nissan Murano. So I'll join Tom Mutchler and get off the Murano bandwagon this month.

Instead, I'll turn to a vehicle that faithfully took my family and me on a Maine vacation a few years ago: the (marginally) politically incorrect Toyota 4Runner. Why would I pick a model that's slightly below mid-pack in the Ratings and not on any of my colleague's radar screens? I like the 4Runner because it's not uncomfortable (at least, not for me) for a long-distance drive. It's also reasonably quiet. And for a truck-based SUV, it handles pretty well and has standard stability control. For the rare times that I drive off-road, the 4Runner can hold its own for the type of terrain I'd attempt (which, admittedly, isn't much). I guess it's politically incorrect because it's not car-based, it's not a hybrid (only about 16 mpg overall...a big, black CR circle as far as fuel economy is concerned), and it's, well, a truck. I don't care. It has a reliability history any car maker would die for, which further puts me at ease. Not only can the 4Runner get me out of an off-road jam, it's built to keep me rolling down the road for years to come. Now, if only the Murano could go off-road...

Personal picks: Luxury SUVs, part 2

Here are more staff perspectives on the luxury SUVs test group:

Gabe Shenhar: I really liked the previous generation BMW X5. But the redesign? Did they really have to do that to the X5? While it looks good and manages to hide the extra length that enabled a third-row-seat, it’s just too frustrating overall. Living with the new X5 on a daily basis annoys the heck out of me. Even if I got used to the unintuitive shifter, I’d still have to contend with the iDrive, the convoluted audio system, the unnecessary running boards, and the choppy ride. It would drive me crazy. So with all due respect to BMW (and I have quite a bit of it), that’s too high a price to pay.

So thanks for making my choice easy this time, BMW. I’m going with the Acura MDX. It has a sweet powertrain and agile handling, so when you’re in a hurry the car cooperates rather than frustrates. A compliant and composed ride, supportive seats and great fit and finish keep the fatigue at bay. The easy, retractable third-row seat expands the possibilities of who rides where and keeps all options open. The MDX also has all the electronic gizmos I would ever need, and then some. Yes, you can get lost in the forest of switchgear on the dash’s center stack, but after a weekend in the car, it somehow makes sense. The MDX is neither too large nor too small, and it looks good, too.

Rick Small: I was a bit disappointed in this group, since you don’t get a lot more for your money than many of the less expensive, newly-released three-row SUVs. The new BMW X5 handles well, but the ride is stiff. It’s one of the slower models here and has hideous controls and is too expensive. The Lexus RX350 is quiet and rides well, but it is not sporty and the driving position for tall people is not as good as some. In this group, I like the Acura MDX. It feels sporty and has the best driving position for tall folks like me. However, the ride is on the stiff side. The related Honda Pilot is less money and rides better; it even has a bit more interior room. If you don’t need AWD, you’ll save even more money with a FWD Pilot. I also think that there are many less expensive alternatives to this group that are worth a look. The recently tested all-new Saturn Outlook, Mazda CX-9, and Hyundai Veracruz perform just as well, have a third-row seat, and cost thousands less. The Ford Edge is also a less expensive alternative to the Lincoln MKX. Save your money; shop some of these new alternatives and you won’t be disappointed.

Personal Picks: Upscale sedans

Upscale sedans is one of my favorite groups of cars. While these models are not as expensive as the top-of-the-line hardware from the best and brightest car companies, they represent a balance of performance, style, and luxury at a not quite bank-breaking price. Who am I kidding: I can't justify my buying one of these, but they're closer to my budget realities than the premium Audi A8, BMW 7 Series, or Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedans. The so-called "affordable luxury" class (sounds like car PR-speak to me) is priced starting at the upper end of the family sedan market, meaning these models may not be as out of reach as you'd think. This month's magazine test category ranges roughly from $27,000 to $41,000. There are several stand-outs here, but let's go beyond the Ratings (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers) to get down to the models that really appeal to us.

Here is the first installment of the staff's "Personal Picks" from the June issue. --Mike Quincy.

Rick Small: In this group, the Infiniti G35 really stands out as a sporty and fun car to drive. It has great road feel and a firm but sporty ride that isn't punishing. The powerful V6 delivers strong performance, sounds great, and is quicker than many V8s. Fuel economy is decent considering the high level of performance. The AWD model is a little less sporty to drive and uses a bit more fuel. I would go with the RWD model and get a set of good snow tires for the winter. The Lexus ES350 is refined and quiet but doesn't even try to be sporty. I also like the Acura TL; it has a good combination of luxury and sport.  For my tall frame (I'm 6' 4"), the TL has more room and a better driving position than the G35. The Nissan Maxima is very roomy but I would go with the Altima and save some money. Likewise, a Honda Accord EX V6 comes close enough to the Acura TL for less money.

David Champion: The RWD Infiniti G35 is just like a luxury roadster, with great handling and steering, reasonable amount of room, comfortable interior, good fit and finish, awesome power, and good mpg.

Gabe Shenhar: Out of this group, there isn't much of a question that I'm going with our Top Pick, the Infiniti G35. I won't elaborate on it anymore since enough ink and paper (as well as fuel and rubber) has been spent on its merits. But, somehow, I 'm missing something when driving the G35.

What is it? Perhaps it's that extra measure of steering feel and ride control and compliance that may speak to driving connoisseurs. That's why out of the larger set of cars in this category, my personal pick is the BMW 3 Series -- most likely the 328i. It's such a terrific driver's car that's enjoyable, yet docile. I'd probably go for the optional Sports Package for the sharper steering response and negligible loss of ride comfort. When you're in the mood, the straight-six engine pulls strongly and provides a perfect soundtrack. The agile handling, communicative steering, unfazed body motions on fast bumpy corners, and awesome powertrain (even with the automatic) can really start my day on a good note.

I realize I'll be giving up the head snapping 5.4 seconds 0-60 mph sprint of the more powerful G35, but let's be honest here: I'm WAY past the age of drag racing. I'd rather live with the more gradual throttle response of the BMW. Plus, it has a more comfortable ride and better fuel economy. But I'm justifying and there is no need to. Ultimately, when it comes to sports sedans, it's often a choice you make with your heart rather than your head.

Personal Picks: Family sedans, part 1

Now that the dust is settling on the New York Auto Show and 2007 Annual April Autos issue, we're catching up on sharing our personal perspectives on the magazine road test group from the March issue: family sedans. This test group included both new models (Saturn Aura) and redesigned ones (Chrysler Sebring, Kia Optima, Nissan Altima).

Midsized, mid-priced family sedans are the bread-and-butter for many auto makers, with the most-popular models selling over 400,000 units a year. There are many choices in this segment, which can make it a challenge for consumers to find the model that best suits their needs and budget. Having evaluated these particular models, and many other sedans in the segment, we present our own family sedan personal picks:

Gene Petersen: There's a lot to choose from in this category, with many models and often a choice of engines, too. It seems to me that the best four-cylinder models are as lively to drive, have practical fuel economy, and have refined road manners. In turn, some of the better V6 models here are very competitive with upscale sedans that cost thousands of dollars more.

Feeling the pressure of escalating energy costs on my wallet, I could be very satisfied with the four-cylinder versions of the venerable Honda Accord and the new Nissan Altima. Both are nicely equipped for around $23,000, fun to drive with nimble handling and a comfortable ride, and have refined powertrains. I especially like the strong 2.5-liter engine in the Altima coupled to one of the most satisfying CVTs around to provide a respectable 25 mpg overall, which beats the fuel-sipping Accord by one mpg. I give the Accord kudos for it quieter and smoother four-cylinder engine, however.  Also, the Accord has nearly bullet-proof reliability and strong resale. The Altima is too new to predict its reliability. One other consideration: I truly like the keyless start system in the Altima and the interior seems more contemporary than the Accord's.  If I'm forced to select one here for myself, I'll be adventuresome and take the Altima.

Rick Small: My favorite family sedans are the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. Being the tallest auto test engineer, they fit me the best. The Altima has one of the best driving positions for tall people, because of the generous head and leg room. Also, both of these cars are sportier than most family sedans. The four-cylinder Altima with the CVT delivers better performance than many V6 family sedans and its fuel economy is among the best. The V6 versions of both sedan are quick and responsive and deliver respectable fuel economy. I also like the new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan; they also have a sporty feel and good performance, but they are not quite as comfortable for me as the Accord and Altima.

Personal Picks: Small SUVs, part 2

Here, we revisit the February-issue small SUV test group, including the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V and Element, Jeep Compass, and Saturn Vue Hybrid, with Cars staff members casting their own personal perspective on the vehicles.

Cliff Weathers: The Honda CR-V didn't have much competition from the field in which we tested it. In the published test, the CR-V won hands-down over a bunch of middling vehicles, such as the Jeep Compass and Chevrolet Equinox. Instead, I'll compare it with the Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Forester, our other top small SUVs. To my taste, the CR-V has a more composed ride than the RAV4 and it makes the Forester seem very dated in comparison. Of course, the CR-V's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine feels anemic compared with the RAV4's available 3.5-liter V6. I'm a big stickler for outward visibility, and I always admired the Forester for being uniquely easy to see out of. Unfortunately, Honda has gone in the opposite direction with the CR-V redesign. I find the sloping rear and big rear pillars to be an impediment, not only when backing up, but when assessing the traffic behind me.

Rick Small: The small SUV market is rapidly growing and continues to be very popular. It is no surprise, as these vehicles have many advantages over the older truck-based models, including superior ride, handling, and fuel efficiency. They're also very roomy for their size and folding seats add to their usefulness. I like the new Honda CR-V and Hyundai Santa Fe, which are both much improved over their earlier versions. That said, I need a 3,500-pound towing capacity for my boat, so that leaves the four-cylinder models off my list. The Santa Fe and Toyota RAV4 offer V6s that cover my towing needs; the new Mitsubishi Outlander has a standard V6 that can also tow 3,500 pounds. Of these, the Outlander is the sportiest of the group and it fits my 6' 3" frame the best--although my wife complains that it lacks leg room. The RAV4 is a good choice, but I don't like the right-hinged rear gate door. I find that a hatchback design is much more user friendly. These well-equipped V6 models run around $30,000 and get 17-18 mpg overall. My favorite SUV, though, is still the Nissan Murano, which can be more expensive but is quicker, bigger, and sportier than most of these and still manages 19 mpg overall.

Jeff Bartlett: Living in New England, I can appreciate the desire for an affordable, efficient vehicle with a flexible interior, AWD, and elevated ground clearance. Yet, I still favor one with some personality. At today's prices, cars are simply too expensive to be passionless appliances. Among the small SUVs, the Honda Element stands out to me as addressing my objective needs and desire to have a few surprise and delight features. Now late in its model run, the Element has seen many shortcomings addressed. Most noticeable has been covering the box front to back in (gasp!) paint. For 2007, the once-door-mounted seat belts are now fed from new front seats, easing rear-passenger access. The new SC trim line brings a tribal art look to the interior, and more importantly, quiets the cabin with carpeting -- an Element first. Power climbs 10 horses and the automatic transmission sprouted an extra gear, for five total. The result is an affordable machine ready for mild adventures -- on the scale most people attempt. Fold or remove the back seats and it's ready for a hardware store run, or a mountain bike expedition. The clamshell-split rear hatch makes access easy, and tailgating fun. Sure, it is a touch heavy, with compromised visibility, rear seat capacity, and too much road noise... but it's fun, practical, and has its own distinct personality, even if it looks like the box the CR-V was delivered in.

Personal Picks: Sporty and off-road...

This month's magazine test group consisted of sporty and off-road SUVs: the BMW X3, Acura RDX, Mazda CX-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler, respectively. The common feeling among the staffers is that none of these really wowed us. In particular, the off-road models' harsh ride and bad outward vision simply required too many compromises to be considered a daily driver.

To see how all the SUVs stack up, check out our extensive ratings (available to ConsumerReports.org subscribers only). As we continue the routine of giving you, our faithful readers, a monthly insight on which models we'd personally choose, we'll keep dishing out all that's good--and not so good--for all vehicle types. Here's our personal take on the latest SUV test group, broken into selections from the sporty and off-road models:

Rick Small:
Off road: If I were looking for a serious off-road vehicle, I would choose the Toyota FJ Cruiser over the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. The Toyota does most every thing better; it's quicker, tows more, and is even better off road. It will likely be more reliable, too. Neither handle very well, but the FJ rides better, is quieter and more comfortable. I prefer the FJ's looks over the omnipresent Wrangler, as well. Both have restricted rear vision and I would add a rear-vision camera to the FJ, which is a tremendous improvement and makes hooking up a trailer a snap.

Sporty: This group of smaller, upscale SUV's doesn't do too much for me. I like their size but I need 3,500-pound trailer towing capacity on occasion. Only the BMW does that here, however, it's very expensive for what you get. Instead, I would look at the Toyota RAV4 V6, which costs much less, is quite reliable and will tow 3,500 pounds. Another promising vehicle is the new 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander, which is much like the RAV4 V6, well equipped and priced reasonably and will tow 3500 pounds. I look forward to testing the new Mitsu.

Mike Leung:
Sporty: I wasn't overly thrilled with any of this month's vehicles, actually. I'd still take a Nissan Murano over almost any other SUV. The Mazda CX-7 stood out as by far the worst due to the turbo lag issue. Rolling accelerations are unimpressive and trying to get into traffic is dangerous. For example, as you putter out into the intersection, it hesitates before it takes off. Quite scary. 

Off road: The Jeep Wrangler was the most fun to drive. It's definitely a mundane and tedious ride when you're confined by the removable top, but I want to drive it again with no doors or roof. The more body panels you take off that vehicle, the more fun it gets. It really is a terrible vehicle on so many levels (and yet a tremendous improvement over its predecessor), but removing the walls from the cage lets the vehicle's true, fun nature shine through. Between the unconfined feeling, wind in your hair, tunes blasting on the Sirius satellite radio, and countless people giving you the thumbs up, how can you resist?  The rumored Toyota FJ SUT that's supposedly coming out could provide similar entertainment. However, our tested FJ Cruiser was just not fun on any level due to being too confined and cumbersome to drive.

Personal picks: Economy cars, part 3

Consumer Reports engineers offer their own views on the budget cars featured in the December 2006 issue.

Rick Small: For my size (about 6' 3") I fit best in the Hyundai Accent or Kia Rio. The seat cushions in both can be tilted and I can get the most thigh support and most comfortable driving position for my frame. They handle well, have nice interiors, a long warranty, and Korean car reliability, in general, is not as much of a crapshoot as it used to be. The Honda Fit is the sporty one of this month's group. It has versatile interior features, but I don't 'fit' in it as well as the others. The Nissan Versa has a roomy back seat, but the front seat (again) wasn't as comfy; plus, it costs more than the Accent or Rio.

Gabe Shenhar: There's no question that the Honda Fit is the most interesting car here. It has an amazingly creative interior packaging that offers a lot of versatility. It also drives nicely, and you don't feel like you've been shortchanged with a cheesy interior as you would in most competing models. But my personal choice would be the Mini Cooper. Ideally, I'd opt for the S supercharged model, but if my goal is to be frugal, I'd go with the base. Granted, I'll be getting "only" 31 mpg instead of 34 with the manual Fit, but the Mini's go-kart like handling and cool looks more than make up for that loss. Of course, the Mini is also $4,000 more expensive, which might be justifiable considering the Mini's low depreciation.

Personal picks: Luxury sports cars

Rick Small: For the luxury coupes, my pick is the Jaguar XK8. It's, arguably, the best looking Jag since the XKE. It also has the most interior room for my 6'3" 210-pound frame. The lined convertible top is well insulated and very quiet inside -- it's even quieter than some metal roof cars. The interior looks great, with fine details and high quality materials. The powertrain provides quick and smooth performance and also sounds fabulous. One of the only things I don't like about it is its very high ($86,300, as tested) price.

Eric Evarts: Of all the great cars in the October test group, the Mercedes-Benz SL 550 became my favorite on the test track, of all places. It certainly isn't the fastest, and it doesn't even have the highest handling limits. But it throws you back hard in the seat as it rockets down the straightaway.
Subjectively, it feels almost as fast as the Corvette Z06 and the Viper, but it never threatens to break away from the driver and lose control as those cars sometimes can. Yet it's plenty fast enough that I could keep pushing my own limits without worrying about surpassing the car's. All that, and it's smooth and elegant on the street, snug and cozy in the winter, and lets the sun shine in on a summer day. Do you suppose anybody would notice if the most expensive car Consumer Reports has ever tested went missing for a week or two?

Gene Petersen: The Jaguar XK convertible is the ultimate touring car in my book. Gorgeous looks, powerful and muscular sounding engine, and nimble handling make it a pleasure to drive. Sure, the car is not a pure sports car, but the everyday handling is just fine without sacrificing ride comfort. I like the padded soft top that quells much of the ambient noise and there is virtually no wind buffeting with the top down; just that sweet exhaust note in the background with a tip into the throttle.

OK, now for a reality check. The car cost over $86,000. I can put down $5,000 and finance the rest over six years at 7% interest rate. Let's see...with local property and sales tax that I must pay in my state -- and adding in the monthly insurance fee - I'll have to come up with almost $1,800 a month. Yikes! No, I can't swing it or would I want to. But the car was never intended to be sold to low- to middle-income folks like me. Cars like these are for the well-to-do and most likely used as a week-end driver. So what do I do if I want a sporty convertible car that I can afford? Think Ford Mustang or Mazda MX-5.

Personal picks: Ultra-performance cars

In case you didn't already know, the CR folks who deal with the automotive side of things are car junkies. We live it, breathe it, and love it most everyday of the week. With that in mind, we will put together lists of cars that we particularly like -- or would choose as our own -- within the magazine's test month category. To kick off this new tradition, it's only appropriate to start with the most outrageous test group of them all, dubbed fantasy sports. As in the November CR magazine, we'll split the group into ultra-performance and luxury sports cars. In the days ahead, our Cars team will share their personal perspective of this elite group.

Rick Small: The super sports cars top pick for me is easy: the Corvette Z06. It has a much larger interior than the others, which easily and comfortably fits my tall body -- I physically don't fit in the Viper or 911. But it's not only the accommodations as to why I like the 'Vette the best. The Z06 has awesome acceleration and excellent cornering grip. It has plenty of trunk space and can hold two sets of golf clubs. Plus, it costs thousands less than the others here. Even the overall gas mileage of 19 mpg is very good for the super-car performance you get. Also resale values are also likely to remain very high.

Tom Mutchler: It's not easy picking a favorite from this group. The 911 and Z06 are a blast, but owning them would lead me to lose my license. Quickly. Driving the Viper in the summer is more like a barbeque pit than a snake pit. There are 'plain-Jane' Cadillac and Lexus sedans that are much more satisfying than their pricey roadsters. The SL costs more than some houses. So, that leaves the beautiful Jaguar XK. Wonderful to look at, great to drive - but the last time I drove an XK, I wanted to tear out the infuriating touch screen control system.

Cliff Weathers: After a few hours with the Viper down on two-lane roads in upstate New York, I emerge with that involuntary smile you see on people who just disembarked a rollercoaster. The endorphins are teeming, my head is swimming, and I swear I've got a bruise or two. Was it fun? Yeah! Did it scare me? Heck, yeah! Would I like to go for another ride? Sure, just as soon as my heart stops playing the drum solo from "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida!"

This is the way you're supposed to feel after driving a sports car. You're not supposed to feel like you've spent a day at the spa. You're not supposed to feel mellow. You're supposed to feel like you surfed the Banzai Pipeline or scaled Castle Crags. Massaging seats, touch-screen displays, and push-button door releases? Not on your life!

Not only is the Viper a brutally honest sports car without a hint of fluff, it's also the car to be seen in. Tooling around town in it is like morphing into Batman. All heads turn, kids scream, parking valets flag you down, and cops forget their danishes.

Trust me, you do not get have this much fun or attract this kind of attention in a Porsche 911 or Chevy Corvette.

The best road trip cars ever, part 2

Rick Small: "I remember one particularly memorable solo drive back from the Cape on a warm summer night as the sun is setting in a Corvette convertible. I had ocean views and scents, the wind in my hair, and a great sunset. I really liked running through the gears and listening to the engine, feeling the power, and taking in the sights. I left the top down until it was dark; the stars and the moon were the next show. No radio, no phone -- just me and the 'Vette. It was a great road trip. (I'd like to repeat it in my Cobra someday if only I could have the same conditions again.)"
Shawn Sinclair: "Traveling with kids: I'd choose any minivan with a DVD player and a third-row seat that folds into the floor. This set up makes it easy to divide kids or cargo. Also, the Chevrolet Avalanche isn't bad, especially if you have a lot of cargo - plus, the truck sits high enough for the kids to see out. Traveling without kids: The Chevrolet Corvette is a nice couple's weekend getaway vehicle. Spring, summer, and fall trips...just avoid snow driving."
Mike Quincy: "I'm torn between the incredible fuel economy and 600-mile range of the Toyota Camry Hybrid and the terrific front and side visibility of the Chevrolet Avalanche. While both models are comfortable, quiet, and well-equipped, my kids would vote for the Avalanche since it has a DVD player. My wife and I lean toward the Hybrid - with $3.00/gallon gas prices, its fuel economy simply rocks."

The worst road trip cars ever, part 2

Rick Small: “There are a few I dread for a long road trip. The Smart ForTwo is a snoozer on a long  hilly drive, with no power, large trucks looming over you and being blown around by them. This micro car takes forever to get up to speed and has the clunkiest transmission in recent memory. The Pontiac Solstice is cramped, noisy, has no storage, no power, no trunk; but everyone gives you the thumbs up because of its styling. Finally, the Dodge Viper would be a chore – especially on a hot summer’s day in stop and go traffic. And if the A/C breaks you roast inside from exhaust heat. The cabin is also cramped, the ride is bad, and it’s incredibly noisy.”

Mike Quincy: “In 2001, we were testing a group of compact pickups, and the Nissan Frontier was one of them. It had a bone-jarring ride, slow steering, and ungainly handling. The supercharged engine was powerful, but it had a pronounced, unrefined growl and a dominating whine from the supercharger. The front seats were uncomfortable and, to top it off, we only recorded about 14 mpg overall…AND it required premium fuel. Thankfully, the redesigned Frontier is much better.”

We’ll soon cover our personal choices for the best long-distance cars.

A car guy's Father's Day

Seeing as June 18 is Father’s Day, I asked the male engineers what would be their ultimate automotive-related Father's Day gift. (Don’t worry: next Mother’s Day we’ll do the same for the female engineers here at the track.)

I asked the men to be creative and not be restrained by price…in other words, if a $165,000 Ford GT on eBay would be the ultimate gift, I wanted them to say so and explain why. Maybe it's an old car, or maybe it's a new car…maybe it's a trip to Le Mans…whatever.

Here are their choices (in no particular order):

Rick Small: “Since I have already built my dream car, an ERA Cobra, I would really like a loaded Nissan Murano, which is a fun, sporty and practical ride and can still tow my boat on occasion.”

Gabe Shenhar: “Last year for Father’s Day, my kids got me a radio-controlled Ford Focus rally car, just like the one Collin McRae drove in World Rally Championship. I initially had a ball playing with it, but guess who’s playing with it now? My two boys...

“For this year, especially with the ‘money is no object’ clause, I think I'd go with the Porsche 911 Carrera S that we’re now testing. This is an outright sports car that can be driven with gusto, yet comfortable and accommodating enough to be a daily commuter. It’s so much fun to drive, and not only when you're driving hard; the handling, the sound, the throttle response, the steering and brake feel are just wonderful. With the two rear seats, my kids can come along for the ride. The front trunk can take a weekend suitcase for an impromptu getaway with my wife, such as a trip to the Nürburgring.”

David Champion: “My ultimate Father’s Day gift would be to drive an original Ford GT40 or the latest GT around Le Mans race track.”