Research Cars, Trucks or SUVs

2011 Honda Fit Sport: The Ultimate Urban Runabout

Nuts and Bolts

When I first saw that our test car was an automatic, I was disappointed. I actually like automatics in cars with a lot of torque, especially daily drivers. But automatics tend to suck all the life out of small four bangers. Well, I’m pleased to say this was not the case with the Fit Sport! The Fit Sport auto comes with little paddle shifter and two modes--Drive and Sport. Put it in Drive if you want to get the best mileage. But if you want to hoon around a bit, kick into into Sport. Yes, the manual is faster. But the auto in Sport is still quiet engaging. And that little 117 hp 1.5 liter is surprisingly flexible, zippy and fun. There is a reason why people like Honda drivetrains.

Read the full review at Autoholics!

What's New
Stability control, cruise control, keyless entry and iPod/USB audio interface are standard for 2011

Turn Ons:
Stylish, roomy, versatile, fun, good gas mileage.

Turn Offs:
Annoying A pillar design.

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

Nuts and Bolts

I started out really excited about the Cruze. A week later, I’m still pretty excited. First of all, the design. I think the Cruze looks great from any angle, which is not something I’d also say about most cars these days. I’d say it looks like a car that costs more than $16,000. It’s not trying to be flashy or cutting edge or weird. It just looks good and kind of classy. Nice work, Chevy.

Read the full review at Autoholics!

What's New
It’s all new.

Turn Ons:
Great looks, great price, great fuel economy, handles well.

Turn Offs:
Seats aren’t the best, rear seating a bit tight.

2011 Kia Optima EX: Moving Up the Food Chain

Nuts and Bolts

Seems like Hyundai gets all the press, but keep an eye on Kia. They are doing some cool stuff. I particularly like where they are taking their styling. I thought the Sportage we had recently looked pretty good, and other a bit too much front overhang, I think this Optima is a very successful design as well. The Optima seems to be sized between the Civic and the Accord. Roughly Ford Fusion sized, or for me, just about right. The Optima shares its platform and engine with the new 2011 Hyundai Sonata, but the sheetmetal and interior are all Kia. And maybe it’s the styling, but the car seems to have it’s own personality, too.

Read the full review at Autoholics!

What's New
The whole car.

Turn Ons:
Good looks, good performance and good fuel economy.

Turn Offs:
nothing really.