A Best Seller for a reason

Photo from Toyota.com

      The balancing act continues for the 2016 Toyota Camry. With nimble, aggressively styled rivals nipping at its rear bumper, Toyota debuted an all new Camry for the 2015 model year. At the same time, the Camry faithful demand things like an easy to use control layout, and a quiet, smooth ride. Serving up these 2 traits will likely keep the Toyota Camry at the front of the pack.

      The 2016 Toyota Camry is a 5 passenger midsize sedan available in LE, SE, Special Edition, XSE, and XLE trim levels. The Camry Hybrid may be reviewed at a later date.

      Standard equipment on the base LE trim includes 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlamps, heated mirrors, a/c, keyless entry, a rear view camera, cruise control, 8-way power driver seat, 60/40 split folding rear seats, cloth upholstery, a 6.1 inch touchscreen with Entune, voice controls, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, and a 6-speaker sound system.

      The SE builds on the LE by adding 17-inch alloy wheels, a sport tuned suspension, sporty exterior styling, cloth and synthetic leather upholstery, a leather trimmed steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a 4.2 inch driver information screen.

      Optional on the LE and SE is an Entune Audio package which includes a 7-inch touchscreen, satellite and HD radio. A sunroof is also an option.

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      The SE based Special Edition gets the Entune Audio package and a sunroof as standard, as well as 18-inch wheels, smoked tail lights, keyless entry and ignition, blue interior trim, unqiue gauges, and Qi wireless charging for your smart phone.

      The XSE doesn't come standard with the sunroof, keyless entry and ignition, or the wireless phone charger, but it does retain the sport tuned suspension, and adds different 18-inch wheels, LED running lights, leather and synthetic suede upholstery, heated front seats, a 4-way power passenger seat, and dual zone a/c.

      A Convenience package is offered on the SE and 4-cylinder XSE trims that includes keyless entry and ignition, and an auto dimming rear view mirror.

      The XLE is similarly equipped to the XSE, but switches to the LE's comfort tuned suspension and forgo's the sporty styling elements. it has 17-inch alloy wheels and leather upholstery.

      The sunroof is optional on the SE, 4-cylinder XSE and XLE, while the wireless phone charging is optional on the latter 2 trims.

 

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  Of note is that the V6 powered versions of the XSE and XLE get a few extra goodies, like LED headlamps, a noise reducing windshield, the sunroof, Convenience package, the wireless smartphone charger, and an upgraded Entune system. The latter is optional on all but the LE, as is a navigation system.

      Optional on the XSE and XLE is a blind spot monitoring system with cross traffic alert, a Technology package, and a 10-speaker JBL audio system.

      Every 2016 Toyota Camry trim comes standard with front wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic, and a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 178 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque.

      In testing, a 4-cylinder Camry LE did the run to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds, which is average for the class.

      The XSE and XLE trims also offer a 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. An XSE that I tested last year did the sprint to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is quick for the class in a car with the upgraded engine.

      EPA estimated fuel economy numbers for the 4-banger are 28 mpg combined, while the V6 comes in at 25 mpg combined.

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      Every 2016 Camry comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side airbags, front knee airbags, full length side curtain airbags, and a rear view camera.

      The XSE and XLE can be equipped with a blind spot monitoring system with cross traffic alert. The Technology package adds a lane departure warning system, and a collision mitigation system. Optional on the XLE only is Safety Connect.

      In brake testing, my tester was able to stop from 60 mph in about 123 feet, which is on the longer side for this class. In government crash test ratings, the 2016 Toyota Camry was able to earn 5 out of 5 stars for overall crash protection.

      The 2016 Toyota Camry provides one of the largest and most comfortable in the midsize sedan class. There is plenty of headroom and legroom up front, and hardly much less in the rear. Moreover, a rear facing child seat can fit in the back with no problems at all, unless you are child seat deficient like me. Of note on this subject, the fixed rear headrests can make installing a forward facing seat a bit of a chore. With the trunk rated at an average 15.4 cubic feet, you shouldn't have much of a problem fitting luggage for the family in there.

      From the driver's seat, most of the physical buttons that you touch are surely large enough, easy to understand at a quick glance, and are even glove friendly. The smartly designed climate controls should get praise for their simple, logical operation.

Photo from Toyota.com

      Thanks to a host of improvements last year, the 2016 Toyota Camry is more responsive to inputs from the steering wheel, and more composed when going around the twisty bits. This is especially true of the SE, Special Edition, and XSE trims which dial up the driver engagement level with their sport tuned suspensions.

   
Of course, the Camry has been long known for its comfort and quietness, and thankfully, those traits still make an appearance. Even the sport tuned suspensions have a plush ride, but the LE and XLE certainly have the most. Under the hood, the base 4-cylinder engine delivers enough power for everyday driving, but for those of us that like more power and seemingly endless thrust, the V6 is the engine of choice for the 2016 Toyota Camry.

Performance Overload

   

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Few things in life can kick rational thoughts to the curb, and the 2016 Audi S7 is certainly one of them. The rational decision would be to purchase the cheaper, but still just as good A7 hatchback, on which the S7 is based. However, the S7 kicks it up a few notches from its sister, by adding a 450 horsepower, turbocharged V8 to the mix, along with upgraded suspension and brakes. Saying this, the S7 is quick enough to hang with most sports cars in a straight line, and it goes around corners with more pizazz. Good luck going with the rational option when you have that kind of performance under your foot.

      The 2016 Audi S7 comes in one rather well equipped trim level. Unlike the A7, which can seat 3 people in the rear, the S7 has 2 distinctive seats, meaning it can only hold up to 4 passengers total.

      Standard features include 19-inch wheels, full LED exterior lighting, an adaptive air suspension, sunroof, power lift gate, heated and auto-dimming mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, a blind spot monitoring system and keyless entry and ignition. Inside, you will find a head-up display, a driver information center with a 7-inch screen between the gauges, Audi Drive Select, diamond-stitched leather upholstery, 8-way power heated front sport seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with paddle shifters, driver memory settings, 4-zone auto a/c, Audi MMI, a rear view camera, a navigation system with voice controls, Siri Eyes Free, Bluetooth, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system.

Photo from Audi.com

      Options for the S7 come in a number of different packages. The Cold Weather package adds heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel that lacks the flat bottom design, while the Driver Assistance package adds automatic high beam control, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a corner view camera parking system, and Audi Pre-Sense Plus. The Comfort Seating package comes with contour front seats with ventilation and massaging features, passenger memory settings, comfort rear seats and leather upholstery without the diamond stitching.

      The Sport package comes with variable ratio steering, a sport rear differential, and a sport exhaust with black tailpipes. The Black Optic package adds special 20-inch wheels, body color exterior mirrors, a blacked out grill, and gloss black window surrounds.

      Individual options consist of 20-inch wheels, power closing doors, a faux-suede headliner, night vision assist, rear side airbags, and a 20 speaker B&O sound system.

      Under the hood of the 2016 Audi S7 is a turbocharged, 4.0 liter V8 that pounds out 450 horsepower and 406 lb.-ft of torque to all four wheels. Shifting is done via a 7-speed automated manual transmission.

   

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  In testing, the S7 made the sprint to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, which is considerably quicker than most other offerings in the class. Also impressive is the EPA rating of 21 mpg.

      Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, front seat side airbags, full length side curtain airbags, and front knee airbags. Front and rear parking sensors, a rear view camera, lane keep assist, and a blind spot monitoring system are also standard as well. Rear side airbags and a corner view camera, however, are optional. In brake testing, the S7 stopped from 60 mph in about 112 feet, which is average for this class.

      In usual Audi fashion, the 2016 S7 interior is characterized by a sleek, attractive design and top-notch materials quality, with some S-specific measures thrown in for giggles. The standard MMI system features a dash mounted display screen, while controls are center console mounted. The system boasts logical menus, good graphics, and a touchpad to enhance the experience. Certain other systems may be easier to get used to, but MMI should become second nature in a short amount of time for most shoppers.

      Whether you stick with the standard sport seats or opt for the massaging contour seats, you'll enjoy excellent support during every drive you take. However, due to the design of the S7, rear seat headroom is on the small side for averaged sized folks. Legroom is good, thankfully, and there is something to be said for the snug fit of the rear buckets versus the bench found in the A7.

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      The S7's handy hatchback design allows for easier loading of items that wouldn't fit in the trunk of a normal sedan. Official luggage space is rated at 24.5 cubic feet, while lowering the rear seats will give you even more space.

      With 450 horsepower itching to be set free, the 2016 Audi S7 is a pretty quick car by any means. Throw in the crisp shifting transmission, and all wheel drive, and you have at your hands one of the most satisfying and rewarding powertrains known to mankind. It is worth noting that the RS7 makes do with a conventional auto transmission, so the S7 might feel a little more quicker and responsive when you are manually selecting gears.

      The S7's standard adaptive air suspension delivers a smooth ride along with plenty capable handling, a herculian task that once again sets Audi apart from everybody else. Around turns, the S7 can feel like the heavy and sizable car that it is, but it does inspire confidence in the driver, no matter the situation. In short, few 4-doors can match what the S7 can do.

German Luxury

   
If the 2016 Audi A6 were a baseball player, it would be a player molded in the likes of Derek Jeter, the type of celebrity athlete who does everything but sell the food and beer. Indeed, with it's expertly crafted cabin, roomy interior, athletic handling, and strong yet fuel-friendly engine line-up, this Audi treats its occupants rather well, and looks sharp while doing it.

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      The overall sense of refinement is perhaps the A6's most notable trait. Underway, the engines are smooth, and provide performance stronger than their respectable numbers would suggest.

      The 2016 Audi A6 is a midsize luxury sedan offered in 6 trim levels; 2.0T Premium, 2.0T Premium Plus, 3.0T Premium Plus, 3.0T Prestige, TDI Premium Plus, and TDI Prestige. The 2.0T, 3.0T and TDI designations denote the engine equipped, like the 2.0T Premium is equipped with a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The S6 will hopefully be reviewed at a later time.

      Standard equipment for the 2.0T Premium includes 18-inch wheels, Audi Drive Select, automatic xenon headlamps, LED running lights and tail lamps, automatic wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, sunroof, tri-zone auto a/c, heated 8-way power front seats, driver memory settings, leather upholstery, Bluetooth, Audi MMI, a 6.5 inch display screen, and a 10 speaker audio system.

     Going with the 2.0T Premium Plus gives you front and rear parking sensors, a rear view camera, blind spot monitoring system, Pre-Sense Rear, power folding exterior mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, an 8-inch display screen, a voice-activated navigation system, Bluetooth, an upgraded MMI with enhanced controller, and Audi Connect.

      The 3.0T Premium Plus is equipped much like the 2.0T version, but adds chrome exterior bits, a stop-start system for the engine, and a power adjustable steering wheel.

Photo from Audi.com

      Going with the 3.0T Prestige gets you adaptive LED head lamps, ambient LED cabin lighting, a power open and close trunk, head-up display, ventilated front seats, power lumber for the front passenger seat, a 14 speaker Bose audio system, and the Warm Weather Package.

      The TDI Premium Plus is equipped like the gas version, as does the TDI Prestige.

      The 2016 Audi A6 2.0T is powered by a turbocharged, 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque. Front wheel drive and a 7-speed automated manual are standard, but you can get it equipped with Quattro, or all-wheel drive, which comes with a conventional 8-speed auto. The EPA says you can expect 28 mpg with the front wheel drive version, and 26 mpg combined with the all wheel drive version.

      The Audi A6 3.0T gets a supercharged, 3.0 liter V6 engine that produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb.ft of torque. The 8-speed auto and all wheel drive are standard, as is stop-start technology. EPA fuel economy estimates come in at 24 mpg combined.

      The Audi A6 TDI gets a turbocharged 3.0 liter diesel V6 that cranks out a whopping 240 horsepower and 428 lb.-ft of torque. Like the 3.0T, it is paired up with the 8-speed auto and all wheel drive. Fuel economy comes in at a very respectable 29 mpg combined.

     

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Standard safety equipment includes things like anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, front seat side airbags, front knee airbags, and full length curtain airbags. Rear side airbags, rear view and top view cameras, front and rear parking sensors, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and a night vision camera system are all optional. In government crash testing, the Audi A6 earned 5 stars for overall crash protection.

      The 2016 Audi A6 has one of the best cabins in its class, with an attractive dash layout, excellent materials quality as well as fit and finish. The familiar MMI system controls an astounding amount of functions using a pop up screen and a rotary controller as well as buttons on the center console. The system boasts logical menus and crisp graphics, and the MMI Plus upgrade includes USB integration and a touchpad that can recognize fingertip scrawls.

      The A6's front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer trips. The rather spacious back seat offers more real-world legroom than most other cars in the class. The A6's 14.1 cubic foot trunk is a little smaller than average, but the rear seat backs fold or offer a pass through when more space is needed.

      The 2016 Audi A6 is a fun car to drive, especially considering the size and weight of the car. It changes directions eagerly, with plenty of grip coming from all 4 corners. Not many midsize luxury sedans forge such a satisfying connection with the driver. One small demerit is the overall light and numb feeling of the steering, however that effort level firms up as you gain confidence in the car.

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      The 2.0T and 3.0T offer spirited acceleration as well as quick and unobtrusive shifts from either the 8-speed auto, or the new 7-speed automated manual in the front drive 2.0T. If cost wasn't an issue, the TDI would be the pick of the litter, as it provides a large mountain of torque, and by far the best fuel economy of the power plant options.

      Although the A6 has a composed ride that you might hardly ever consider harsh, it certainly is firm, and there are more rough jolts than you might like on rough pavement. For this reason alone, you might want to forgo the 20-inch wheels and the stiffer suspension offered with the Sport package. The regular A6 rides and handles just fine with the standard 18-inch wheels and all season tires.

Hot Hatch Legend

 

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 You never quite outgrow a machine like the VW Golf GTI. A super versatile machine, the GTI has all the space and comfort of any other Golf, but thanks to the professional performance enhancements, it's loads of fun to drive. This formula is what gave the GTI legendary status, and it carries through to the current model.

      The redesign completed last year made the GTI a more visually entertaining model than previous years. While not totally different in personality from recent GTI models, the current model has more responsive steering and brakes that make it far more capable and fun to drive on country roads. Accelerating out of the turns is made easier by the equally legendary 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine packed into the engine bay on the 2016 VW Golf GTI.

     The 2016 VW Golf GTI is offered in 2, and 4-door hatchback body styles, while being offered in trim levels of S, SE, and Autobahn. All-season tires are standard on all trims, and summer performance tires are a no-cost option.

     Standard features for the base GTI S 2-door include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, rear spoiler, heated mirrors, cruise control, a/c, cooled glovebox, plaid cloth upholstery, heated front seats, a leather wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, rear 60/40 split folding rear seats, a 6.5 inch touchscreen technology interface, Bluetooth, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, rear view camera, and much more. 4-door versions of the S also get power reclining front seats.

     Available on all GTI's is the Performance package, which includes an electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip differential, larger front and rear brakes, and an extra 10 ponies.

Photo from VW.com

     Stepping up to the GTI SE adds a sunroof, auto headlamps and wipers, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, and a Fender Audio System. The range topping GTI Autobahn adds a navigation system, 10-way power drivers seat, and dual zone a/c.

     Any GTI can be ordered with the Lighting Package, which includes adaptive bi-xenon headlamps and LED running lights. Optional on the SE and Autobahn models equipped with the Performance Package is Dynamic Chassis Control which provides driver-adjustable shocks and a larger rear stabilizer bar. Optional on any SE or Autobahn model, the Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, a frontal collision warning system with emergency brake assist, lane departure warnings, blind spot monitoring with cross traffic alerts, automated parallel parking and an auto dimming rear view mirror.

     The front wheel drive 2016 VW Golf GTI uses a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine the produces 210 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of the good stuff. If you opt for the Performance Package, you get an extra 10 hp, for a total of 220 horsepower. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, and VW's DSG automated manual is optional.

     During testing, a 4-door GTI with the optional Performance Package and a 6-speed manual did the traditional 0-60 mph run in 6.0 seconds. Fairly quick for sporty compact cars.

Photo from VW.com

     Standard safety features on the 2016 VW GTI include anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes, automatic hill-hold, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and a drivers knee airbag. A post-crash braking system is also standard and automatically applies the brakes to reduce the chances of a secondary crash. A rear view camera is standard while front and rear parking sensors are part of the optional Driver Assistance package. Said package also includes a frontal collision warning system, lane departure warnings, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alerts.

   
 In brake testing, a 4-door GTI with the summer performance tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 108 feet, which is a really short distance. In government crash testing, the 2-door GTI earned 5-stars for overall crash protection.

     You will fall in love with the interior of the 2016 VW GTI within 30 seconds of getting inside. It really is just that good. Materials are well grained and soft to the touch, and the overall design is European, comfortable and sporty thanks to bold red stitching. Buttons and switches are placed close to the driver and offer simple, easy to use controls.

     Every 2016 GTI includes a 6.5 inch touchscreen with all new software behind it. Autobahn models also include navigation, but with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility across all trims, you don't really need a factory nav system anymore. The touchscreen is still small compared to the 8-inch screen that you get in the Focus ST, but it is a huge step forward compared to the screen offered on last year's model. Also, a universal USB port is finally included.

Photo from VW.com

     Passenger space is excellent for this class. The front seats provide good support and comfort, even during long driving stints. Best of all, it doesn't come with the sacrifice of rear seat passenger space either. Wide, tall doors combined with a moderately high seat make this an easy car to get in and out of. Even the 2-door models have good rear seat access. up to 22.8 cubic feet of stuff can be stored behind the rear seats, or up to a massive 52.7 cubic feet of space if you fold the rear seats down.

     The 2016 VW GTI lives up to its hot hatch heritage with sharp handling and steering, brisk acceleration, and a rather manly engine and exhaust note. These are best explored on twisty mountain roads, where the GTI playfully darts around every corner, while giving the driver plenty of confidence.Though all GTI's are fun to drive, you should think about opting for the Performance Package if you are planning on taking the occasional challenging road or a track day or two.

     Either the slick-shifting manual or the well-executed DSG would be a good choice, but for a proper experience, I would go for the manual. When compared to traditional autos, the DSG is quick and smooth, and offers perfectly rev-matched downshifts. However, the DSG can be frustratingly slow to respond to gas pedal inputs when you want to accelerate quickly, or you are slugging along in traffic.

     Although it is comfortable on long drives, the GTI can ride harshly over imperfect pavement, especially when equipped with the summer tires. Models with the adaptive suspension are more forgiving, but not enough so to justify the added expense if you weren't already planning on getting the Performance Package. I have yet to drive a GTI with the all season tires, and there is a decent chance that rubber compound would offer a better ride.

2015 Toyota RAV4 XLE

 

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 With their up-for-anything personality, easy-to-park size, and hardly no appetite for fuel, compact crossovers are some of the most popular vehicles on the market today. Versatility is by far their greatest asset, as you can easily fill them with car seats, groceries, sports equipment, or the latest spoils from your most recent shopping trip. Among these practical SUV's, the Toyota RAV4 has long been a favorite of savvy shoppers of all ages and tastes.

     Thanks to more competent rivals, the RAV4 isn't quite a no-brainer pick anymore. Still, you are likely to find that it checks off most of your boxes on that must have list.

     The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is a 5-passenger compact crossover that is offered in 3 main trims: LE, XLE, and Limited.

     The LE comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlamps, power folding mirrors, keyless entry, rear privacy glass, full power accessories, a/c, cruise control, and tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40 split fold and reclining 2nd row seat, rear-view camera, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker sound system with a 6.1-inch touchscreen.

     The XLE adds 17-inch alloy wheels, fog-lights, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, roof rails, sunroof, dual zone auto climate control, sportier front seats, a cargo cover, and extendable sun visors. The audio system on the XLE is upgraded to include satellite radio, HD radio, traffic and weather. Options for the XLE include a height-adjustable power liftgate, a navigation system, and Toyota's Entune system.

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     The top-of-the line Limited comes with all of the above plus 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and ignition, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, an 8-way power adjustable driver seat with memory settings, and premium synthetic leather upholstery.

     Options on the Limited include a navigation system bundled with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The Technology package adds a blind spot monitoring system with cross traffic warning, a lane departure warning system, and automatic high-beam headlamp control. There is also the Blizzard Pearl Premium package which adds the Blizzard Pearl color, and 18-inch machine finished wheels with black accents.

 

Photo from Toyota.com

 The 2015 Toyota RAV4 is powered by a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that makes 176 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard, and all trims come with the option of all wheel drive.

     In testing, the RAV4 equipped with AWD took 9.3 seconds to reach 60 mph, which is average in this class. The front wheel drive equipped RAV4 is EPA rated for 26 mpg combined in LE and XLE trim, while trims with AWD come in at 25 mpg combined, which are good numbers, but hardly class leading.

     Standard safety equipment on every 2015 Toyota RAV4 includes anti-lock disc brakes, rear-view camera, stability and traction control, whiplash-reducing front head restraints, front-seat side airbags, and full length side curtain airbags. A driver knee airbag is also standard. The optional Technology Package on the Limited provides blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alerts, and lane departure warnings. In testing, my vehicle came to a stop from 60 mph in about 130 feet, which is roughly 5 feet longer than the average. In crash test ratings, the RAV4 has earned 4 out of a possible 5 stars for overall protection.

     The 2015 Toyota RAV4 features an interior design with pronounced angles and lines that form a streamlined and modern looking dash. Overall, the materials used are average for the class, and a few of the audio and climate controls feel a little on the cheap side. The cupholder count is fine, but there aren't as many useful storage cubbies like you will find in other vehicles in this class.

Photo from Toyota.com

     Although all of the RAV4's audio system have Toyota's Entune branding, only XLE and Limited models with the navigation system include the Entune suite of apps. There is a decent amount of functionality here, but getting started can be a bit of a pain as you have to download the app, then register for an account. Plus, you always need an active data connection to use all of the features. The touchscreen interface has straightforward menus, but it's sometimes unresponsive to user inputs. On the upside, all of the basic controls in the RAV4 are easy to use.

     The cargo bay measures in at 38.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and can grow to a respectable 73.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. There is a bonus to having a lower mounted rear seat like in the 2015 Toyota RAV4, a near flat floor, and a low load-in height which will help to reduce the strain on your body when you are lifting heavier objects into the vehicle.

 

Photo from Toyota.com

 Most small crossover shoppers will find the RAV4's 2.5 liter engine adequate for most tasks, and fuel efficient enough. The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but if you tend to drive more aggressive, you might find it slow to down shift in passing situations. Additionally, when climbing steady mountain grades, the transmission has a tendency to hunt between gears. Both of these are more than likely due to the transmission being set-up more on the fuel economy side of things.

     The 2015 RAV4 handles well and feels refined and comfortable when cruising down the highway. A potential exception to this is the Limited trim, which can get a little rough on harsh pavement thanks to the larger wheels. In spite of this, the cabin remains very quiet, making the RAV4 a good option for families with young children who tend to sleep in the car.

2016 Mazda CX-5

   

Photo from mazdausamedia.com

With their ample cargo space, rather good fuel efficiency, elevated driving positions, and enhanced poor-weather driving capabilities, compact crossover SUV's have huge appeal. Indeed, this is one of the post popular auto segments. Within that crowded class, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 stands out as one of my favorites.

     What pushes this Mazda to the front of the class is that, in addition to satisfying those core requirements, it also boasts a rather nicely trimmed cabin, excellent safety ratings, a smooth and quiet ride, comfortable seats and good visibility. The CX-5 also has something quite rare in this segment: a fun-to-drive personality that comes by way of its precise steering and sporty handling. With the bigger engine that's standard on most trim levels, the CX-5 also provides an impressive combination of peppy acceleration and high fuel economy numbers. Whether you are driving to work, running errands, or dropping the kids off somewhere, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is enjoyable to drive and as comfortable and as easy to live with as your favorite pair of jeans. These traits also make the CX-5 a great road trip companion.

     The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a 5-passenger compact crossover SUV available in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims. All trim levels offer a choice of front wheel drive, or all wheel drive.

Photo from mazdausamedia.com

     The base Sport comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, a/c, cruise control, height adjustable driver seat, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, Bluetooth, and a 4 speaker sound system.

     Initially, the Sport will offer an optional Mazda Connect package that adds a 7-inch touchscreen interface, a multi-function controller knob, HD radio, Pandora Internet Radio, automatic crash notification, SMS text message reading, and voice controls. Later in the model year, the Rear Camera Package will supplant that, and add all of those features, plus the rear-view camera.

      The Touring includes all of the above and adds a more powerful engine, keyless ignition and entry, blind spot and rear cross traffic warning systems, 6-way power driver seat, 40/20/40 split folding rear seat, 6 speaker sound system, upgraded cloth upholstery, and a leather wrapped steering wheel. The Moonroof and Bose Audio Package adds a sunroof and an upgraded 9-speaker Bose Audio system.

   

Photo from mazdausamedia.com

 The Grand Touring includes all of the above plus 19-inch wheels, automatic headlamps, automatic windshield wipers, heated mirrors, dual zone auto climate control, satellite radio, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.

     Available on both the Touring and Grand Touring is the Technology Package. It adds a navigation system, Smart City Brake Support System, adaptive LED headlamps, LED running lights, LED fog lights, LED tail lights, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. Optional on the Grand Touring is the i-ActiveSense Package that adds adaptive cruise control, Smart Brake Support, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlamp control.

     The 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport comes with a choice of 2 powertrains. You can chose either a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft of torque matched to a 6-speed manual transmission, or a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine with 184 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft of torque that is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional on Sport when you equip it with the 2.5 liter engine. The bigger engine is standard on Touring and Grand Touring models.

     The EPA estimated fuel economy for a FWD Sport is 29 mpg combined. All FWD CX-5's with the 2.5 clock in the exact same numbers, while those with AWD come in at 26 mpg combined. In testing, my tester that was equipped with the 2.5 liter engine and AWD accelerated to 60 mph in a very respectable 8 seconds.

Photo from mazdausamedia.com

     Every 2016 Mazda CX-5 comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags. An automatic crash notification feature is optional on the Sport, and standard on the Touring and Grand Touring, which also get blind spot and rear cross traffic warning systems.

     Optional on Touring and Grand Touring is Smart City Brake Support, which is a system that uses a laser to detect objects like other cars or people in front of the car, and will apply the brakes to stop the vehicle at speed up to 19 mph. In brake testing, my CX-5 Grand Touring tester stopped from 60 mph in 121 feet, which is a bit better than average in this class. Crash test ratings for the 2016 Mazda CX-5 are 4 stars for overall crash protection out of a maximum of 5 stars.

     Regardless of the trim level, the cabin of the CX-5 is attractive, modern, and most importantly, functional. It's a mature design, and it isn't loaded up with fake wood or highly reflective chrome trim. Instead, materials are simple and rather high in quality, and soft-touch surfaces are set off with tasteful bits of metallic or piano black trim. The gauges in their contrasting black and white design are quite legible as well.

     The 2016 version of the CX-5 brings a much improved infotainment system. Boasting a 7-inch touchscreen, and a super intuitive multi-function control knob, this is one of the better systems out on the market today. Most drivers should be able to find a comfortable position, and front seat comfort is excellent on long road trips.

   

Photo from mazdausamedia.com

 The Mazda's back seat is plenty spacious and offers plenty of leg room for this class. That rear seat features an innovative folding mechanism on the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels that lowers the seat bottom before folding the seatback on top to provide an almost flat load floor. With all of the seats filled, there is 34.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which grows to a massive 64.8 with the rear seats folded.

     Equipped with the base 2.0 liter engine, the Mazda CX-5 offers competitive power on paper, but it just doesn't feel that strong during passing and merging maneuvers in the real world. For the majority of shoppers in this category, the 2.5 liter engine is a much better choice, given its greater power, and near identical fuel economy numbers. Furthermore, the 6-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, and is easily one of the most responsive transmissions in this class. Mazda still makes a very good manual transmission, but seeing as how that is only offered with the 2.0 liter engine, I feel the appeal is quite limited on that set-up.

     Easily the most striking thing about the 2016 Mazda CX-5 is its athletic character. Even if you are just looking for a small crossover to drive to work everyday, you will notice that its steering, brakes and suspension are unusually capable for a vehicle in this class. It's a rather enjoyable vehicle to run errands in, and if you happen to turn onto a road with twists and turns, the CX-5 could be downright fun. On the highway, the Mazda rides just as comfortably, which makes it a great road trip companion.

2015 Lexus NX 200t F-Sport

   

Photo from Lexus.com

Can you think of things hotter and more wildly popular than the compact luxury crossover SUV segment? Didn't think so. Most shoppers clearly find these models' size, ride height, fuel economy, and premium cabins to be just right for them. Lexus already has a fan favorite in the RX, and it isn't too far north of this segment in terms of size and price, but the company felt that there was room for a more directly aimed contender. Enter the 2015 Lexus NX 200t.

     On the outside, the NX has a distinctive look that takes inspiration from the new IS sedan. Clever interior packaging has led to an impressive amount of rear seat legroom that is more than what is found in most other options in the segment. Cargo room, on the other hand, is lacking a bit, both with the rear seats in the up, or folded down positions.

     The 2015 Lexus NX 200t is a 5 passenger, compact luxury crossover SUV. It is offered in a single trim level, but there is a hybrid NX 300h that might be reviewed on its' own if you would like to read that.

Photo from Lexus.com

     Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlamps, LED fog lights and running lights, rear privacy glass, keyless ignition and entry, driver-selectable vehicle dynamics settings, cruise control, dual zone auto climate control, NuLuxe premium vinyl upholstery, a leather wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel, 8-way power front seats, a 60/40 split folding and reclining rear seat, a cargo cover, and an auto dimming rear-view mirror. Standard technology features include a 7-inch touchscreen, a rear-view camera, Bluetooth, Siri-based voice controls and readouts for iPhones, the Display Audio electronics interface, and an 8-speaker sound system.

     The NX 200t F-Sport is essentially a package that adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels along with styling elements and summer tires, a sport tuned suspension, transmission paddle shifters, performance gauges, special interior trim and a generated sportier engine note.

     Other packages are also optional, though they can vary by region, so you should check with your Lexus dealer on what you can order. The Comfort package adds a power adjustable steering wheel and driver memory functions. The Premium package includes the Comfort package items and adds 18-inch wheels, auto-dimming exterior mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats ( not on F-Sport,) and a sunroof. The Luxury package includes Comfort and Premium items, then adds things like a power liftgate, automatic wipers, tow package, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel and wood trim. A power folding rear seat can be added to the Luxury package.

Photo from Lexus.com

     The Navigation package adds a navigation system, but also adds the Remote Touch electronics interface, adds 2 speakers to the sound system, voice controls, and various Lexus Enform apps.

     Stand alone options include 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, various advanced collision warning systems, the sunroof, the power liftgate, upgraded LED headlamps, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel and a wireless charging tray for Qi-compatible smartphones.

   
 The 2015 Lexus NX 200t is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive are standard. All-wheel drive is an option.

     In performance testing, my NX 200t F-Sport did the 0-60 mph run in about 6.7 seconds, which is average for the segment. The EPA estimates the fuel economy for the 2015 Lexus NX 200t at 24 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. Those vehicles equipped with front wheel drive should clock in around 25 mpg combined. During testing, I averaged around 25.2 mpg.

Photo from Lexus.com

     Every Lexus NX 200t comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags, full length side curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag and a front passenger cushion airbag that prevents submarining under the seatbelt and off the seat. A rear-view camera is also standard, along with Lexus Enform Safety Connect. Optional safety features include a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert, as well as a lane departure warning system and a frontal pre-collision system. In brake testing, the NX 200t with summer tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 120 feet, which is several feet better than the average. The government has yet to crash test the NX, but in IIHS testing, the NX earned its' Good rating.

Photo from Lexus.com

     The cabin of the 2015 Lexus NX 200t isn't quite as radical as the exterior would make you think, but it nevertheless does exert a vibe that won't be mistaken for anything else in the segment. Construction is the usual top-notch from Lexus with materials that look and feel rather expensive. Soft leather lines the seats and passenger side dash, as well as the padded areas that cushion the center console to keep your legs from hitting a hard surface. Details like contrasting stitching, wood trim and an analog clock are tastefully applied.

   
The high-mounted climate controls are easy to reach and see, while the secondary controls are intuitive. The infotainment controls are less so, however. The standard Display Audio system uses a knob-and-screen system similar to what you might find in a Mercedes-Benz. With Remote Touch, various menus and icons are selected with a new console-mounted touch pad, just like on your laptop. There is haptic feedback through the pad when you click something, but in general, using this system takes your eyes away from the road for an extended period of time.

     Rear passengers in the NX should find a generous amount of space, at least when compared with most other luxury compact crossovers. Cargo space is tight however. The NX has 54.6 cubic feet of total volume, which is similar to the Mercedes GLK, and just a few feet shy of the Audi Q5. However, the raked tailgate seems to make the space less versatile than the modest volume number would suggest. That is driven home even more when you factor in that with the rear seats up, it offers just 17.7 cubic feet of cargo room, making it less spacious than some of its rivals.

Photo from Lexus.com

     If you are expecting the 2015 Lexus NX to be a smaller RX, you are either going to be sadly disappointed, or rather surprised. The ride is a bit more firm, the steering is more responsive and body motions are more controlled when going around turns or through dips. There is a sense of connection between the car and the driver that is missing from most of the other offerings in this class, including the RX. Even more of this engagement can be found in the F-Sport model courtesy of the sport tuned suspension, paddle shifters, extra gauges, and the admittedly extraneous Active Sound Control that pumps artificial engine sound into the cabin.

     One of the reasons the F-Sport has to use artificial engine noise is because of how quiet the NX's cabin is. The engine, in particular, is surprisingly hushed especially when compared with the other 4-cylinder turbocharged engines in the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60. It's also very smooth and respectably powerful. Current luxury SUV owners who are used to V6 engines are unlikely to complain about have 2 fewer cylinders, if they even notice at all.

   

2015 Kia Soul !

   

Photo from Kiamedia.com

 If you take a look at the Kia Soul, you might think that it is hard to put in a category. Is it a hatchback? What about a wagon or small suv? All of the above? Whatever you decide to call it, just know that it appeals to both the head and the heart.

     On the practical side, the Soul offers quite an amazing amount of features, both standard and optional. The cabin of the Soul is a comfortable and rather user-friendly place to be, with good amounts of room and intuitive controls. Kia's Soul will be a friendly companion for errand running as well.

     The Kia Soul has 4 doors and seating for 5. It's available in 3 trims, base, plus, and exclaim.

Photo from Kiamedia.com

     The base comes standard with things like 16-inch steel wheels, roof rack mounting points, rear privacy glass, full power accessories, 3 driver selected steering modes, a/c, height adjustable drivers seat, cloth seating surfaces, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, Bluetooth, a six speaker sound system with cd player, satellite radio. Keyless entry and cruise control are optional.

     The Soul + adds a more powerful engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, cruise control, a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area, a cargo cover, upgraded cloth seating surfaces, a fold down rear seat armrest, and a front seat center armrest with storage.

     Optional on the base and Soul + the Uvo eServices package adds automatic headlamps, fog lights,a rear view camera, and the Uvo interface.

   

Photo from Kiamedia.com

 When equipped with this package, the Soul + becomes eligible for 2 more packages. The Audio Package adds auto a/c, a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, simulated leather cabin trim, piano black and satin metallic interior accents, a navigation system, an 8-inch touchscreen display, and an upgraded Infinity audio system with speaker lights and a subwoofer. The Primo Package, which requires the Audio Package, adds a panoramic sunroof, fog lights, keyless ignition and entry, leather upholstery, an 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar support, heated and ventilated seats, heated rear outboard seats, LED interior lighting and a heated steering wheel.

     An Eco Package, optional on the Soul + adds fuel saving features like an auto stop-start system and low rolling resistance 16-inch tires.

     The top of the line Soul! builds upon the Soul+'s Uvo Package, then adds things like 18-inch alloy wheels, body colored fascia accents and bumpers, LED daytime running lights, power folding side mirrors with integrated LED turn signal indicators, an 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, further upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, simulated leather cabin trim and chrome interior accents.

Photo from Kiamedia.com

     The Soul!'s Sun and Sound package provides a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, LED interior lighting, the navigation system, 8-inch touchscreen display, HD radio, and the upgraded Infinity sound system. The Whole Shebang package adds xenon lowbeam headlamps, keyless ignition and entry, an upgraded instrument panel, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated rear outboard seats. The Umber package adds special leather upholstery.

     The front wheel drive 2015 Kia Soul is offered with 2 different engines. The base Soul gets a 1.6 liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and 118 lb.-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, and a 6-speed automatic is optional. The EPA's figures for the base Soul come in at 24 city/30 highway for 26 combined with either transmission.

     Soul + and ! models have a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine that makes a stout 164 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft of torque. The 6-speed auto transmission is the only transmission. Fuel economy with the 2.0 liter engine is 23 city/31 highway for 26 mpg combined, and the + with the Eco package comes in at 27 mpg combined. I observed 28 mpg during the week with my tester. In performance testing, the Soul ! did 0-60 mph in 8.9 seconds, which is average for a small wagon/hatchback with an upgraded engine.

Photo from Kiamedia.com

   
 Standard safety equipment for all Soul models include four-wheel antilock disc brakes, hill-start assist, stability and traction control,  front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active front head restraints. A rear-view camera is standard on the Soul! and included on the other trims when they are equipped with the optional Uvo eServices package.

     In brake testing, the 2015 Kia Soul came to a stop from 60 mph in 112 feet. While this is a short distance, it is worth noting that my tester for the week had the 18-inch wheels. Souls with the smaller wheels may or may not perform the same. In government crash testing, the Soul earned 5 stars overall, which makes it a safe vehicle for your family.

     With its modern look and expressive styling details, the 2015 Kia Soul has a cabin that offers a pretty good balance between form and function. Quality materials make the interior feel more refined than you might expect for a car in this price range.

     Gauges and controls are logically placed and easy to use, and using the Uvo interface to control your smartphone is pretty easy compared to other systems out there. In addition to upgrading the sound quality, the optional Infinity audio system includes trim rings that light up to the beat of your music. It is more of a marketing gimmick, but I have a feeling that some buyers of the Soul will find it quite fun.

     One of the benefits of the Soul's boxy design is the amount of head and legroom, even in the backseat. Behind the rear seatbacks, you will find 19 cubic feet of cargo space, which will grow to 61 cubic feet when you fold both portions of the 60/40 split folding rear seat down. This is greater than compact wagons, and even more than some smaller SUV's. Worth noting however, is that the now defunct Scion xB can hold more cargo.

Photo from Kiamedia.com

     With respectable power on tap from the 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine, the Soul is enjoyable around town, and feels satisfyingly quick when merging onto the freeway. The engine does get a bit raspy sounding during hard acceleration, but the automatic transmission shifts smartly and does a decently good job of holding gears on uphill grades to help the car maintain a constant speed. I have yet to drive a Soul with the 1.6, but I suspect that most buyers will opt for the 2.0, seeing as how it has more power, and gets just as good fuel economy.

     While the Soul doesn't really feel overly sporty, it does handle better than you might think. The steering has a reassuring weight to its effort at highway speeds and it feels precise when you are driving around turns. The brake pedal even has a reassuringly firm feel to it too! However, the Soul! does lose some of its appeal on long highway trips, due to the 18-inch wheels not liking to soak up the bumps very well. Also, the boxy shape does result in more wind noise at highway speeds, but if you can overlook this, than the 2015 Kia Soul might be the car for you.

Fast and Orange: 2015 Lexus RC 350 F-Sport

   

Photo from Lexus.com

 The all-new Lexus RC coupe is about the size of a Ford Mustang, but without all of the pony car heritage to go with it. It combines luxury with sporty intentions and delivers an aggressive package unlike anything else in the Lexus lineup. You could think of it as a true alternative to the Audi A5 or BMW 4 Series.

     Unlike the other automakers, the Lexus RC isn't just a 2-door version of a sedan. Instead, it is a blend of different elements put together for luxury coupe duty. The nose, for example, comes from the larger GS, while the center section comes from the IS convertible, and the rear comes from the new IS sedan.

Photo from Lexus.com

     This results in a car that is about 2 inches longer compared to the Audi A5 and BMW 4 Series coupes. The engine is the standard 3.6 liter V6 that feeds directly to an 8-speed automatic, unless you opt for all-wheel drive, then it feeds directly to a 6-speed automatic. Rated at 306 horsepower, the V6 is the only option unless you opt for the RC-F, then you get a V8.

     There are 2 versions of the RC 350 offered: The base RC 350, and the RC 350 F-Sport. The F-sport package includes an adaptive suspension package, 19-inch wheels and tires, sport seats with contrasting stitching, and digital instruments that Lexus says was inspired by the LFA.

     One step higher than the RC 350 is the RC F. That beast is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 that thumps out 467 horsepower, and is mated to a 8-speed Direct Shift transmission. I feel that the RC F is different enough to warrant it's own review, so stay tuned for that review.

 

Photo from Lexus.com

 There is a certain elegance to the way the V6 delivers its punch. It doesn't have enough power to truly overwhelm the chasis, but you can certainly build speed rather quickly if you aren't being careful. It's almost to easy going and the wide ratios of the 8-speed auto transmission mean that the engine is barely operating at higher than idle, up to about half-throttle.

     Leave the traction control and suspension settings in normal, and the RC 350 feels like it is singing bumps and lullabies to the road. It is more composed than a Mustang, but it also seems like it is asleep, like it doesn't want to be woken up to play.

     Its subdued nature doesn't mean that it isn't capable when you give it some gas. The variable-ratio steering comes alive as speed builds, and in Sport mode the suspension begins to tell you almost exactly what is going on. The chasis feels neutral, the tail nor nose feel like they want to wag, even when speeds go beyond legal.

Photo from Lexus.com

     By using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, it's easy to keep the V6 near its 4,800 rpm peak. However, there is only 277 pound feet of torque to keep the 3,800 lb car at speed, so there never is quite enough power to overwhelm you.

     It isn't a super fast car. the 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds is decent, but hardly enough to light the charts on fire. The quarter mile saunters by in 14.3 seconds at 99 mph, or the rough times of a Mustang or V6-powere Camaro. The 0.86g on the skidpad is also modest. Braking was solid overall, with short distances and not much fade to report.

     As you may have come to expect from a Lexus, almost every element of the RC 350's interior is well considered and perfectly stitched together. A wide center console defines the driving experience and divides the cockpit between occupants. A conventional shifter lies alongside the knob that adjusts the suspension, while a trackpad for the navigation and entertainment systems sits just behind it. When you throw in the straight forward instrumentation, and you feel like you are in a series driving situation.

Photo from Lexus.com

     The trackpad works well for operating most of the a/c, navigation and entertainment systems. It is an interesting alternative to all of the knobs and switches and buttons you might find on other vehicles in this class. Still, there is somewhat of a learning curve to all of the menus and options that you have.

     In contrast, the display directly in front of the driver is simple to the extreme. It does without a conventional speedometer in favor of a digital one.

     As for most coupes, the rear seat is only really useful for short trips. However, the front seats are among some of the best in the business. They are adjustable in an almost infinite number of ways, and comfortable in just about every way as well. It's luxurious and without being pretentious or over-decorated.

   

Photo from Lexus.com

The EPA rates the RC 350 at 19 city/28 highway for a combined number of 22. I observed 24 mpg during testing. There is an ECO mode that you can try, but i didn't observe a huge increase in numbers compared to standard or Sport.

     If you have just shipped the last of your brood off to college and feel the need to treat yourself to a 2-door coupe, the RC 350 is a softer, gentler easier going machine than many of the other choices in this class. It's luxurious first, sporty second, and good looking in many ways. The F-Sport adds a dose of masculinity to the car's personality that is rather attractive.