An endearing, tossable nature that is slightly muted by mediocre steering feel and uncomfortable driving position. The new Yaris is a pleasing improvement over the previous generation. Still, issues from the last-gen Yaris remain. In particular, its 1.5-liter, four-cylinder is a noisy...
Hardcore all-wheel-drive capability makes it a monster on the track. It operates very well when pushed closer and closer to its limits. There’s just so much grip on offer that you are generally at your limits before the car is.
The big-bodied Benz offers remarkable composure despite its size. Epic powerplant sounds great and delivers plenty of power all over the rev range. AMG’s seven-speed DCT is also an excellent piece.
Sportified GS isn't a huge improvement on the standard model, but that's mainly because the regular GS350 is so good. Feels more confident and stable in the bends, and somewhat more talkative.
Really, it's better than the V-6 model. Low- and mid-range torque is quite good, and the six-speed automatic keeps up nicely. We'd like a manual mode, and perhaps the addition of all-wheel drive.
The cornering grip and transitioning from side to side are pretty good, but the steering feel just isn’t really there. 2.0-liter engine feels overwhelmed, although the manual gearbox is actually pretty nice to use. That rings true for the rest of the cabin, with its supportive seats and driving...
Besides the carryover powertrains, the Mini Coupe features added structural bracing for a stiffer chassis and better feedback. The result is the best handling Mini outside of the John Cooper Works models. In the bends, the Coupe feels even stiffer, with a quick-rotating nature that is also...
Only a lack of steering feel lets down the 3-Series legend in this sixth generation. Good power from the turbo four, with subtle, adjustable, sports sedan handling. We were happily surprised to find that the sonic profile, while a world away from the song of the outgoing inline-six, is pretty...
The 3.8-liter engine gets you moving quickly once the eight-speed trans finds the right gear. Soft suspension and numb, lightweight steering compromise sporting intentions. Decidedly more luxury sedan than sports sedan. There's more "rear-wheel-drive" feeling here than is allowed to come through...
Involvement Notes: All the on- and off-road prowess of the standard Range Rover, but with a forced-induction punch that makes it feel nicely quick. Despite the overall size, it’s still quite agile. Feedback through the suspension is limited, but a talkative steering rack makes up for that. One...
Due to its size, it’s obviously not meant to provide much in terms of sportiness. That doesn’t mean it is totally boring. A blown V-6 and torquey electric motor make the Touareg Hybrid shockingly quick for a large SUV, especially off the line. Still, the drivetrain doesn’t offer much sonically...
Slow and noisy engine and lifeless steering hurt the Rio’s involvement. Great small car if you don’t want to have any fun on your commute. The ride is decidedly soft for a small car, and this is reflected in the level of lateral movement during hard cornering. Might not be so bad if there...
The Malibu Eco has a smooth, unfussy ride, but it hardly communicates with its driver at all. The hybrid system neither intrudes, nor adds to the driving experience. Steering feel is slightly more talkative, but is outclassed by other vehicles at this price point. Seating position is...
CVT is a bit more friendly, but still a drain on overall driving dynamics. Big and soft when it comes to handling. 3.5-liter V-6 isn't bad, but could stand a bit more power.
Not very powerful, but its six-cylinder song is old-school Honda awesome. Handles like a larger vehicle, tipping too much into turns and lacking steering feel.
Completely put to shame by other cars in this class. Light, lifeless steering, slow, and overly soft in the bends. Do yourself a favor and buy a Ford Focus.
Goodbye, fun-to-drive RDX. The new model is here and Acura has removed all of the punchy, turbo'd, quick-handling fun in favor of bland competence. Yawn.