Cars: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Least Expensive Cars of 2011
Are cheap cars really all that cheap? We've driven the ten least-expensive 2011 cars on the American market, and here we share our opinions of the cars that carry the lowest sticker prices in the US.
Small trunk
2011 Nissan Juke cargo bay
CVT - What it is, how it works
What is a Continuously Variable Transmission (or CVT), how does it work, and what makes the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) superior to a conventional automatic transmission? This article explains, in simple terms, what the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is and how it works. By Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Snow tire Q&A
How are snow tires different from other tires? Do you need snow tires, or are all-season tires good enough? This article answers five common questions about snow and winter tires. From Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Ten Best Cars for Teens
Ten Best Cars for Teens - Ford Fiesta
Favorite Fuel Efficient Cars
My philosophy about saving fuel a fuel-efficient car shouldn't require one to give up comfort, safety and enjoyment. That's why this isn't just a by-the-numbers list of cars with the best fuel economy. Instead, I've put together a list of cars I think are the creme-de-la-creme of high-mileage cars - including hybrids, turbodiesels, and other high-MPG, fuel-efficient cars.
2011 Hyundai Elantra test drive
2011 Hyundai Elantra - Test drive and new car review - 2011 Hyundai Elantra
Cars for Women
Women's driving needs differ from men's. Herewith the Top 10 Cars for women as chosen by the automotive experts at About Cars.
2012 Hyundai Veloster
2012 Hyundai Veloster
Fuel Saving Tips
Yes, your car can get better gas mileage! These Top Ten Fuel Saving Tips will help you improve your car's fuel economy and use less gasoline. Most of these tips will give you a slight increase in MPG -- but together the gas mileage improvements can really add up. Save money and use less fuel. From Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
How DSG/twin clutch works
The Direct Shift Gearbox (aka twin-clutch transmission) is a self-shifting transmission that overcomes many of the problems with traditional manuals and automatics, and works faster than other sequential manuals. DSG is available on cars such as the Audi TT and A3 and Volkswagen GTI, Jetta GLI, and Golf R32. How the DSG works is explained here by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Small Cars You Can Live With
In years past, small fuel-efficient cars that got excellent gas mileage were limited in scope to economy cars. Today, automakers are building high-MPG cars that are more luxurious, more flexible and more sporty than ever. Check out this list of the Top 10 small cars you can live with, with links to About.com test drives and new car reviews.
Top Ten Cars for Men
Ten best cars for men
2012 Honda Civic review
Honda's ubiquitous Civic is all new for 2012, although Honda has made few changes to what is clearly a winning formula. But the competition is closing fast -- so is the 2012 Honda Civic still the best compact you can buy? Read on. 2012 Honda Civic: Reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2011 Nissan Juke preview drive
The 2011 Juke is Nissan's plucky new small hatchback. Designed like a mini-SUV, the Juke's radical styling houses a high-tech engine and an innovative interior.
2007 Mazda 3 S Sedan
Introduced in 2004, the Mazda 3 quickly earned a reputation as the most fun-to-drive car in the compact class. But 2007 brings a host of redesigned competitors, and class standards are moving up. How does the 2007 Mazda 3 compare to the competition? Read on. Mazda 3 S Touring sedan: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
What is gap insurance?
What is gap insurance, and do you need it? This quick guide explains gap insurance and what it does, so you can decide if you need gap insurance when you buy or lease your next new car.
2011 Lexus CT 200h review
Over the past twenty years, Lexus has redefined what Americans expect in a luxury car -- but now they're introducing the CT200h, a small five-door hybrid hatchback that prioritizes efficiency over luxury. Have the staff at Lexus flipped their lids, or have they stumbled on to the Next Big Thing? Read on. Estimated price range $33,000 - $40,000, EPA fuel economy estimates 42 MPG city, 41 MPG highway. 2011 Lexus CT 200h review: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Disc brakes vs. drum brakes
This article explains the difference between disc (disk) brakes and drum brakes, including how disc brakes and drum brakes work, what advantages disk brakes and drum brakes have, and how to tell if your car has disk brakes, drum brakes or both.
Best cars for moms
Who says motherhood demands a minivan or big SUV? Here are ten cars that are perfect for moms, with lots of family-friendly features that mothers everywhere will approve of.
SUV Alternatives
While SUVs offer lots of space, they aren't always the most practical vehicle -- and they certainly aren't very fuel-efficient. Here are ten vehicles that will give you the space of an SUV with all the advantages of a car, as opposed to a truck. Tested, analyzed and reviwed by the experts at About Cars.
2011 Ford Fiesta test drive
Ford is getting back into the small-car business with the Fiesta -- a European-developed subcompact designed to take on competent rivals like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa and Scion xD (and not-so-competent rivals like the Chevrolet Aveo). The Fiesta's European flair is an integral part of the way it looks and the way it drives. It definitely stands out from the crowd -- but is it the best? Read on.
MINI Cooper
MINI Cooper
Factory photo: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro interior
2010 Chevrolet Camaro coupe interior
2012 Hyundai Veloster review
2012 Hyundai Veloster review and test drive
2012 Mazda3 review
I went into my test drive of the 2012 Mazda3 thinking that my old favorite would get even better. And in many ways, it did -- but I'm also really disappointed with some of the changes. Let's take a closer look at what the 2012 Mazda3 gets right -- and where it goes wrong. 2012 Mazda3: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2011 Chevrolet Cruze test drive
The 2011 Cruze is the all-new compact sedan from Chevrolet; it replaces the Cobalt, a just-good-enough car that seemed to appeal to rental car companies rather than retail buyers. But Chevy's got a plan in place to avoid the Cobalt's fate: The Cruze is designed to leapfrog the competition in terms of features, safety, and perceived value. Can the Cruze pull it off? Or is this just another ho-hum compact from Detroit? 2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Wash your car like a pro
A good, thorough car wash involves more than simply running your car through a machine. I visited Mothers, well-known manufacturer of car washing and detailing products, to learn how to wash a car the way the pros do it.
Modern Muscle
The real muscle car era is long gone but by expanding the definition to include imports, V-6's, front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive, we've come up with a list of modern cars just loaded with muscle. An About Cars Top 10 Pick.
2012 Toyota Prius V review
Toyota Prius V: A good idea gets better. Most of my colleagues regard the Prius as the anti-car, the polar opposite of everything we love about machines that create motion and emotion from the remains of long-dead dinosaurs. That may be so, but the Prius is a really good idea -- and the new-for-2012 Prius V is an even better one. 2012 Prius V: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Build a winter emergency kit
An accident or breakdown is never a good thing; harsh winter weather brings additional problems and perils. Carry these lightweight and inexpensive items in your car to increase safety and relieve misery.
Direct fuel injection
Direct fuel injection promises better fuel efficiency, more power and cleaner emissions for car engines. This article explains what direct fuel injection is and how direct fuel injection works.
K&N Air Filters
K&N says their reuseable air filter can save on costs and pollution. How well does it work? The experts at About.com Cars have the answer.
2011 Mazda2 test drive
Meet the all-new Mazda2, Mazda's entry into the subcompact market. Though Mazda sold the previous-generation Two in other countries, it's been years since they offered this sort of small, affordable hatchback in the US. Can this small car with its small engine and small price tag deliver on the Mazda brand's "Zoom Zoom" tagline? Read on. 2011 Mazda2: Tested and reviewd by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2012 Buick Regal GS review
Forget what you think you know about Buick: The 2012 Buick Regal GS deserves an open mind. The 2012 Buick Regal GS aims to gain a toehold in the luxury performance arena. Can the Regal GS go toe-to-toe with Audi and Acura? Hey – you promised to keep an open mind! Read on. 2012 Buick Regal GS: Tested and reviewed by Jason Fogelson, one of the expert reviewers at About.com.
2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i review
What do the Guide Rating stars mean? I'm not sure if I should write a review of the 2012 Subaru Impreza
How to detail your car
Regular washing is important, but to keep your car looking good, you should detail and wax it regularly.
Top Picks for a Growing Family
The right car is a critical decision for families that are just starting out. Our Top Picks list highlights ten cars that are perfect for a growing family: Practical, safe, inexpensive, and (in most cases) entertaining to drive.
Ten Cheapest Convertibles
Ten cheapest convertibles of 2011
Chevrolet Captiva
Chevrolet Captiva
2011 VW Jetta test drive
The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is more than just a redesigned car -- it represents a whole new mission for Volkswagen's compact sedan. The 2011 VW Jetta has been designed to bring more buyers into Volkswagen dealerships, with more space, more equipment and a lower price. But price cuts have to come from somewhere, and the new Jetta has been "decontented". Was moving the Jetta down-market a smart move? Read on. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta: tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Audi RS6 Avant dashboard
Audi RS6 Avant dashboard
2012 Volkswagen Golf R review
2012 Volkswagen Golf R test drive and review
2010 Mazda3 test drive
Since its introduction in 2004, the Mazda3 has earned a reputation for being economical, fun to drive, and well outside of the mainstream. Mazda's goal for the redesigned 2010 Mazda3 was to make a car that would bring new buyers into the fold without abandoning the factors and features that current Mazda3 owners hold so dear. Have they done it? Read on. 2010 Mazda 3: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Top Ten Family Cars Under \$20k
Top Ten Family Cars Under $20,000
GT-R interior
2010 Nissan GT-R interior
Features For Your Next Car
Used to be that power windows and locks were the epitomy of luxury; today, they're standard on even the most humble econoboxes. Technology has gifted us with a great many more goodies and gadgets. Here are ten features and options that could make life with your next car a great deal easier and safer.
Leasing vs. buying
Which is better, buying a new car or leasing it? This article explains how leasing works and what the advantages and disadvantages are, so that you can decide whether you should buy or lease your next car.
How to live past 150,000
Improvements in technology, build quality and metallurgy mean that cars are living longer and longer, even in the Rust Belt. And it's not just Japanese cars, either -- domestics and Europeans are giving reliable service up to, and well past, 150,000 miles.
With proper care and feeding, virtually any car can be kept running as long as the owner wants to keep it. Here are twelve guidelines to keeping your car well into six-figure territory.
Ten Cars Worth Waiting For
Ten 2012 Cars Worth Waiting For
2007 Honda Civic EX
Redesigned last year, the Honda Civic is a mainstay of the compact sedan world. So how does the 2007 Honda Civic EX sedan stack up against the competition? Read our 2007 Honda Civic EX sedan review to find out. Tested by Liz Kim, one of the expert reviewers at About.com Cars.
2009 Hyundai Accent test drive
At $9,970 -- actually $10,665 once you factor in the destination charge, possibly less once you finish haggling with the dealer -- the bare-bones 2009 Hyundai Accent GS Base is the least-expensive car sold in America -- but a low price doesn't always mean a good deal. Does that apply to the 2009 Hyundai Accent GS Base? Find out in my 2009 Hyundai Accent GS Base test drive and review. Reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2009 Audi A4 interior
2009 Audi A4 interior
Best Cars to Crash
Few people browse new-car showrooms thinking "Is this the car in which I will have a major accident?" -- but with traffic accidents claiming the lives of well over 40,000 Americans each year, perhaps they should. No one can predict how a car will perform in a given crash, but crash tests allow us to make some predictions. Here are About.com Cars' picks for the safest and most crash-worth cars on the market.
Tire Buying Do's and Don'ts
Buying tires is a confusing experience -- but the tires are the single most important safety feature on your car. These do's and don'ts will give you the foundation to make smart choices about your tires.
2009 Nissan Versa test drive
Nissan couldn't have picked a better time to introduce a cut-rate version of their Versa subcompact sedan. The 2009 Versa 1.6 Base was the cheapest car in America for a few days, until Hyundai dropped the price of its entry-level Accent. Even so, $9,990 -- actually $10,710 once you add in the Versa's $720 delivery charge -- is pretty darn cheap for a new car. But is this a car you'd actually want to buy? Read on. Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2006 Acura RSX Type-S A-Spec
The 2006 Acura RSX Type-S A-Spec is a fully dressed version of Acura's sports performance coupe. Just add $4,281 to the $23,845 purchase price, plus six hours of labor and you'll have a factory-authorized, tuner car with a full warranty. Will wings and spoilers make the A-Spec fly? Tested, analyzed and reviewed by Jason Fogelson, one of the experts at About Cars.
2007 Toyota Corolla
With a new version looming on the horizon for 2008, the 2007 Toyota Corolla could be said to be in the autumn of its years, lagging behind its rivals on style and standard safety kit. But that doesn't mean you should discount the 2007 Toyota Corolla: It's surprisingly powerful and wonderfully economical, it knows its way around a windy road, and it's built like the proverbial brick outhouse. 2007 Toyota Corolla: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2012 Range Rover Evoque
2012 Range Rover Evoque
2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 test drive
The big news for the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is its new 470 hp 392 cubic inch HEMI V8 engine, but there's a lot more to the updated Dodge Challenger SRT8 than what's under the hood. What exactly has Chrysler done to the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 -- and have they made it worth buying? Read on.
To trade or not to trade?
To trade or not to trade? That is the question. This article gives helps you determine whether trading or selling privately is best for you, and gives you guidelines to negotiating your trade-in with the dealer.
2007 Audi A3 2.0T S-line
The 2007 Audi A3 2.0T S-line is a rarity in America: A compact sport-luxury car. In a country where bigger is better, the 2007 Audi A3 2.0T S-line dares to offer high-end amenities and German cachet in a package that is fuel-efficient, space-efficient, and family friendly. How well does the 2007 Audi A3 2.0T S-line work? Read this test drive and new car review by Aaron Gold, one of the experts at About.com Cars.
Alfa-Romeo Giulietta
Alfa-Romeo Giulietta
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG
2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG
Prepare your car for a trip
Getting ready to take a trip? Car trouble is the last thing you need. Follow these tips to eliminate some common car-related vacation headaches.
Chevrolet Spark
Chevrolet Spark
10 for the Road
Comfort, space, and convenience make for an ideal road trip combination. Throw in a little performance and you've got it all.
2011 Kia Optima 2.0T test drive
Look out, automakers: Kia is creeping up your tails, and now they've got a turbo. Hot on the heels of Hyundai's impressive Sonata Turbo, Kia debuts its own mid-size turbo sedan, the 2011 Kia Optima Turbo. Is it any good? Read on. 2011 Kia Optimaa 2.0T: Tested and reviewed by Jason Fogelson, one of the expert reviewers at About.com.
2007 BMW 328i sedan
The 3-series sedan is the smallest of BMW's ultimate driving machines. Last redesigned in 2006, the car boasts yet another variation of the long-hood-short-deck shape that's been a 3-series hallmark since the early 90s. For 2007, the 3-series sedans get a boost in power and new model names. Do they make it any more "ultimate"? Read on. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2007 Hyundai Tiburon
Hyundai's Tiburon sports car has never garnered much respect. Over the years Hyundai has endowed the Tiburon with improved performance and improved styling, but it's still been a step away from mainstream sports cars. For 2007 the Hyundai Tiburon sports a new round of improvements that should finally help it earn some well-deserved street credibility. 2007 Hyundai Tiburon test drive and review: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2012 Subaru Impreza hatchback
2012 Subaru Impreza hatchback
2012 Ford Focus test drive
The Ford Focus has always represented a tantalizing promise. We hear how great the European Focus is, but by the time it gets to US shores, it isn't quite the leader that we expected. For 2012, Ford has a better strategy. We get the good Focus this time.
Factory photo: VW R32 interior
2008 Volkswagen R32 interior
2007 Nissan Altima
It's been eight years since Nissan moved the Altima into the big leagues in terms of styling, size and performance. By car standards, that's an eternity -- and yet the previous version of the Altima seemed as fresh and new in '06 as it did in '99. If I was Nissan, I'd be reluctant to change the Nissan Altima, too. But change it they have, and the new Nissan Altima is an excellent example of keeping the good and upgrading the not-so-good. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2011 Dodge Durango
2011 Dodge Durango
2005 Volkswagen Passat TDI
The Volkswagen Passat TDI is a big, comfortable, powerful car that gets 30+ MPG. If you don't think that's possible, then you haven't driven a modern turbodiesel. While many hybrid owners have been disappointed with fuel economy, the Volkswagen Passat TDI delivers on its promised EPA mileage figures of 27 city/38 highway. Tested, reviewed and analyzed by the expert road testers at About Cars.
2008 Volkswagen Jetta
The Jetta sedan is the best-selling car in Volkswagen's model lineup. I've always admired the Jetta for its family-friendly interior and exceptional safety record, and I love the hot-rod GLI version -- but I've always found the plan-vanilla Jetta a little dull. Has anything changed for 2008? Yes -- just enough, as it turns out, to change my opinion. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2010 Mercedes E350 test drive
Mercedes mid-level E-Class is not only their best-selling model in the US, it's also one of my favorite luxury cars. The E350 and E550 sedans have been redesigned for 2010, complete with new styling and a host of new electronic gadgets. All impressive stuff -- but I wanted to see if the soul of the E-Class was still intact. Was it? Read on. 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 sedan. Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, yoru Guide to Cars at About.com.
2007 Honda Accord EX V6
For the last decade or so, the Honda Accord has consistently been one of the best-selling midsize sedans in North America and arch-nemesis to the Toyota Camry. The 2007 Honda Accord EX-L V6 is loaded with options and features, but can it still claim to be one of the leading cars in its class? Tested, analyzed and reviewed by Jeff James, one of the auto experts at About Cars.
2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan
2007 brings the second generation of the Infiniti G35 Sedan, one of our favorite sport sedans. The new 2007 Infiniti G35 sports racier looks and more power, but how does it fare on the open road? Read our review to find out. 2007 Infiniti G35: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2012 Toyota Camry review
Toyota's popular Camry is the icon of sensible-but-boring transportation. For 2012, Toyota has attempted to jazz the Camry up a bit -- but is it possible to imbue this sensible road-going appliance with real personality? Read on. 2012 Toyota Camry: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Ten Most Fuel-Efficient Cars of 2011
Ten Most Fuel-Efficient Cars of 2011
2006 BMW 325i Sedan
The 2006 BMW 325i is the compact sports-luxury sedan to which all others are compared, for better or for worse. The 2006 BMW 325i is right in the thick of the competition, wheel-to-wheel with offerings from Europe and Japan. Can the 2006 BMW 325i live up to its billing? Tested, analyzed and reviewed by Jason Fogelson, one of the experts at About Cars.
2009 Nissan GT-R
2009 Nissan GT-R front view LAAS07
2012 Volkswagen Passat review
2012 Volkswagen Passat review and test drive
Best New Cars of 2011
Best New Cars of 2011 -- About.com picks the best new and redesigned cars of 2011
2011 Hyundai Sonata test drive
For years, I've been recommending the Hyundai Sonata as a cheap alternative to the Toyota Camry. Now, however, Hyundai has decided to stop following and start leading. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is more like an entry-level luxury car than a plain vanilla sedan, yet it still costs a lot less than a Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, or Honda Accord. Is the 2011 Sonata too good to be true? Read on. 2011 Hyundai Sonata: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2009 Honda Civic Sedan review
The Honda Civic is the car I most often recommend to people who want simple, economical and reliable transportation. A week with a mid-range 2009 Honda Civic reminded me why it's such a sensible buy -- but it also reminded me that the 2009 Honda Civic is not the perfect car, and that buyers should consider its imperfections carefully before signing on the dotted line. 2009 Honda Civic LX-S sedan: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Should you buy a used car?
The days when used cars meant trouble are over. Today, buying used is a great way to get more car for less dough. An overview by the expert test drivers at About Cars.
How BLUETEC works
A technical tour of the Mercedes-Benz BLUETEC diesel system
2004 Audi A6 2.7T Test
Audi's lovely and powerful 2004 A6 2.7 V-6T twin-turbo sedan, here driven and reviewed by the professional test drive team at cars.about.com.
2004 Mercedes-Benz E55 Test
The 2004 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG is one of the fastest production cars made and THE fastest that can carry five people in comfort. Tested, analysed, and reviewed by the expert road testers at About Cars.
2008 Honda Civic
Why does one by a Honda Civic? Let me count the ways. You buy a Honda Civic because it's smart. You buy a Honda Civic because it's economical. You buy a Honda Civic because it's... luxurious? That's the idea behind the new-for-2008 Honda Civic EX-L, which adds leather upholstery and heated front seats to the top-of-the-line Civic EX. Is this the mini-luxury-car you've been looking for? Read on. 2008 Honda Civic: Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to cars at About.com.
2007 Audi A6 Avant
While Americans are smitten -- temporarily, I'm sure -- with big SUVs, Europeans, to whom $5/gallon sounds like a pretty darn good deal, prefer mid-size wagons like the Audi A6 Avant. The A6 Avant hauls lots of stuff and packs in lots of safety features, and does so with reasonable thirst. But it is a European car, and as such it's not cheap. How does this German wagon hold up to American family-car duty? Read on. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2010 Volkswagen GTI test drive
What do the About.com Rating stars mean? The Volkswagen GTI is considered by many to be the iconic "hot
Tire safety tips
Tires are vital to our cars' safety; they are literally the only thing that attaches our car to the road. These safety tips on tire inflation, tire balance, tire tread wear and tire maintenance will help ensure your car's safety.
Extended warranties
Today, most new cars come with an extensive bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers the whole car for at least 3 years or 36,000 miles. Car dealers and third-party companies offer extended warranties, also known as service contracts, that extend your car's warranty coverage for a longer period of time. Are extended car warranties a good deal? Read on. By Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2010 Kia Forte test drive
]Meet the 2010 Kia Forte, an all-new car that replaces the Spectra as Kia's entry in the crowded compact sedan market. Kia claims the 2010 Forte represents the New Age of Kia -- top-quality cars that can hold their own against Toyota, Honda and Nissan while retaining Kia's traditional value equation. That's a pretty tall order -- can the 2010 Kia Forte really deliver? Read on. 2010 Kia Forte: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
IS250 interior
2007 Lexus IS250 interior
2007 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The Volkswagen Jetta GLI is like dessert: You know it's going to be good even before you start, and it's always just a bit better than you remember. But unlike dessert, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI is more than an occasional treat. It handles day-to-day life as well as any compact or mid-size sedan. What makes the VW Jetta GLI so good? Read on. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2009 Honda Fit
For 2009, Honda is introducing an all-new Fit, and -- wait, what? Didn't the Fit just go on sale in, like, 2007? Yes it did, but while the 2007 Honda Fit was new to North America, it was old hat to the rest of the world. Rather than make us wait, Honda is already launching the new Fit for 2009 here -- so is it an improvement? Read on. 2009 Honda Fit: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
ESC - What it is, how it works
Electronic stability control (ESC) is a safety feature that can help prevent the driver from losing control of the car. This article gives a layperson's explanation of what electronic stability control is, how ESC works, and why ESC is important.
Under \$45,000 Luxury Cars
Though $45,000 is a lot of money, luxury cars can cost a lot more these days. Here are 10 fine automobiles priced for less. All of them deliver a luxurious driving experience.
How to set a new car budget
Before you go shopping for a new car, it's best to know how much you can afford to spend. Use this relatively simple method to figure out how much new car you can afford based on your budgeted monthly payment, down payment, and trade-in value.
Honda Civic i-CTDi test drive
This is the Honda Civic you can't buy in the United States -- the Honda Civic 2.2 i-CTDi, complete with hatchback body style and Honda-designed turbodiesel engine. How does the Honda Civic i-CTDi compare with the Honda Civics we get here in the States? Read on. Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Ford Mondeo
Ford Mondeo
2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
The all-new C-class is an important car for Mercedes-Benz: It's the one charged with bringing new buyers into the Mercedes fold and keeping them there. The new C is bigger and better equipped than the previous model, plus it's offered in both Sport and Luxury versions to suit different buyer's tastes. Yes, it's good -- but is it good enough to see off the competition? Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
The Truth About Hybrids
Just in case you're wondering what a hybrid car is, or means to most drivers, this simple explanation from the auto editors at About Cars will put your mind at ease. Caution: It may also cause you to become enthusiastic about owning one.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI review
Regular readers know that I was a bit underwhelmed with the new-for-2011 Volkswagen Jetta -- but I was hoping the new hot-rod Jetta GLI might absolve some of the Jetta's sins. So will the 2012 Volkswagen GLI appeal to VW purists like me? Read my 2012 VW Jetta GLI review to find out.
2009 Mazda6
The Mazda6 has always been the automotive equivalent of a hole-in-the-wall restaurant: Small and cramped, lousy location, but the food is out of this freakin' world. Now, imagine that the guy who owns the place has decided to build an addition, paint the walls, hire a couple more waitresses and clean the place up a bit. That what Mazda has done with the 2009 Mazda6. The ambiance is better, but is the food still any good? Read on. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2007 Toyota Yaris S Sedan
Most people buy a cheap car because it's cheap. In the case of the 2007 Toyota Yaris S Sedan, there are so many good reasons to buy this car that the inexpensive price and low running costs are just icing on the cake. What makes the 2007 Toyota Yaris S so appealing? Read on. Base price $13,905, $16,355 as tested, EPA mileage estimates 34 MPG city/40 MPG highway. 2007 Toyota Yaris S: Test drive and new car review by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2006 Volkswagen Passat 2.0T
Volkswagen's new 2006 VW Passat 2.0T is larger in all dimensions but it's also notably quick with the 4-cylinder 2-liter Turbo. A 6-speed manual and 6-speed Tiptronic are featured, maintaining the VW Passat's reputation as a family car that drives like a German sports sedan. 2006 Volkswagen Passat 2.0T: Test driven by Philip Powell, one of the expert road testers at About.com Cars. 2006 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 T 03PP
2011 STI hatchback
2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI hatchback rear view
2007 Saab 9-5
First introduced in 1999, the 9-5 has become a fixture in the Saab lineup. After years of neglect, Saab made a number of improvements to the 9-5 in 2006; for 2007 Saab ups the ante with a longer warranty and an appealing 60th Anniversary option package. But that doesn't change the fact that the basic Saab 9-5 design is still in its ninth year. How's the Saab 9-5 holding up? Better than you might think. Read on. Test drive and new car review by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2007 Audi S4
The 2007 Audi S4 is the hot-rod version of Audi's A4 and the smallest of its sporty S-line cars (which also includes the bigger S6 and S8). So what happens when you stuff a 340 horsepower V8 into a compact sedan? Read on to find out. Pricing: $48,220 base, $57,020 as tested (including $1,700 gas guzzler tax), EPA fuel economy estimates 15 city, 21-23 highway. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2012 Ford Focus Hatchback from the rear
2012 Ford Focus hatchback rear view
2012 Toyota Yaris review
Toyota's subcompact Yaris is all new for 2012; it's more substantial, but also more expensive. But with so many good subcompacts on the market, is it worth buying? Read on. 2012 Toyota Yaris: Reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
2006 Ford Focus
The Ford Focus may be getting on in years, but it hasn't lost its appeal. The 2006 Focus, available as the ZX3/ZX5 hatchback, ZX4 sedan and ZXW wagon, boasts a great driving position, lots of room for passengers and cargo, and a decent list of optional safety equipment. Plus the 2006 Ford Focus is a lot of fun to drive. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla may be more modern, but htye can't match the Focus' character. Focus test drive by Aaron Gold, one of the expert reviewers at About.com Cars.
Chevrolet Celta/Prisma
Chevrolet Celta/Prisma
Ford Focus
Ford Focus
Nissan Qashqai
Nissan Qashqai interior
Driving is serious business, ja?
2007 Audi A3 S-line interior
2010 Toyota Yaris test drive
'm not generally a big fan of cute, but sometimes I get sideswiped. For instance, I like Badtz-Maru, the sad sack chicken from the Hello Kitty universe. And Julius, the Paul Frank monkey, always makes me smile. Maybe that's why I liked the 2010 Toyota Yaris so much. Let's drive.
2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i
Mention the Subaru Impreza to your average car buff, and he or she will probably assume you mean the high-performance WRX or STi versions. That's something Subaru wants to see changed with the newly-redesigned 2008 Impreza -- Subaru wants the 2008 Impreza 2.5i, to have its time in the sun. Can the Subaru Impreza 2.5i take on powerhouses like the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra and Toyota Corolla? About.com Guide to Cars Aaron Gold spent a week with a 2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i sedan to find out.
2007 Hyundai Elantra
The Big Three of the compact sedan field -- the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra -- have a new peer in the redesigned 2007 Hyundai Elantra. The new 2007 Hyundai Elantra stands up against its rivals in space, safety and driving experience, and stands slightly ahead in value and warranty coverage. But in a world where compact cars are becoming more trendy, the Elantra's conservative styling could put it under the radar of many buyers. By Aaron Gold, Guide to Cars at About.com.
2007 Lexus IS250/IS350
When the Lexus IS-series first appeared as a 2001 model, it was clearly a BMW 3-series knockoff right down to the inline 6-cyl engine and beautifully balanced handling. A 2006 redesign made the IS less BMW-like and more Lexus-like; 2007 brings few changes. I tested both models of the 2007 IS, the IS250 and IS350. They still appeal to people who buy BMWs -- but more to the people who buy them for their style than for their road manners. Tested by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Elantra Limited interior
2011 Hyundai Elantra Limited interior
2007 Acura TL Type S
What do the Guide Rating stars mean? I'm a big fan of the Acura TL -- it's a well-priced, extremely well-equipped
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
With fuel prices showing no signs of abating, automakers are lining up to introduce new compact sedans that -- they hope -- will give them an edge in the marketplace. Lastest in line is Mitsubishi with their all-new 2008 Lancer. The Mitsubishi Lancer comes to the table with a unique look, an innovative automatic transmission, a base price of $14,615 (two models reviewed, priced at $18,115 and $22,615). Reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
Factory photo: 2009 Nissan 370Z interior
2009 Nissan 370Z interior
Corolla S interior
2009 Toyota Corolla S interior
2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
The 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI asks: Why go hybrid when a diesel like the Jetta TDI can do the job as well, at less cost and with less complexity? Volkswagen isn't reluctant to put you to the test, offering the 2006 Jetta TDI. The 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: Tested, analyzed, driven and reviewed by Philip Powell, one of the experts at About Cars.
2007 Toyota Camry
The 2007 Toyota Camry is a total redesign of the best-selling car in America. The 2007 Toyota Camry will be available in five grades: CE, LE, XLE, SE and Hybrid. Does the 2007 Toyota Camry have what it takes to remain on top? 2007 Toyota Camry: Analyzed, tested and reviewed by Jason Fogelson, one of the expert test drivers at About Cars.
Chevrolet Vectra
Chevrolet Vectra
2007 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E350 and E550, formerly E500) has always been a bastion of luxury, safety and image, but base models didn't give you much compared to Lexus, Infiniti, etc. That has changed for 2007. The 2007 E-Class has been substantially upgraded: new V8 engine for the E550, choice of same-price Luxury or Sport versions on both E350 and E550, and many other details that make it a much better value for your luxury-car dollar. E350 and E550 sedans tested by Aaron Gold.
Chevrolet Epica
Chevrolet Epica
Lamborghini Reventon dash
2008 Lamborghini Reventon dashboard
2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport test drive
2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport - Test drive and new car review - 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport
2012 Honda Civic Si review
Honda's sporty Civic Si has always been a favorite of mine, but like wine and my favorite pizza shop, the Civic Si has its good years and its bad. 2012 brings an all-new Civic, and with it an updated Si version -- so will 2012 prove to be a good vintage? Read on. 2012 Honda Civic Si: Tested and reviewed by Aaron Gold, your Guide to Cars at About.com.
