Auto review December 2013

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autoreview 2013 Message from the Automotive Editor Darrell K. Ardison The Defender is proud to present our third special auto review section that includes entry-level economy vehicles, luxury sedans and a myriad of pickup trucks and sports utility vehicles.

With the end of the year, it’s a good time to look for a good deal as dealerships try to close out the 2013 inventory and make room for the eagerly-anticipated crop of 2014 vehicles. It’s a shopper’s market, and unbelievable deals are to be had if you’re willing to put in the time and negotiate.

Automobiles make for excellent Christmas presents, the kind that keep on giving for years to come.

With that said, the Defender invites dealerships and salespeople to advertise in our upcoming auto sections. This is the perfect opportunity to invite readers to purchase vehicles from your dealership. The next Defender auto edition is scheduled for May 2014, just in time for the Memorial Day holiday.

Contact Selma Dodson Tyler at 713-663-6996 ext. 820 or email ads@ defendermediagroup.com.

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Buick Verano Turbo

he Buick division of the General Motors Corporation continues to make fine, stylish automobiles. My dad and my favorite uncle owned Buicks so I was well aware of their history.

Buick introduced the Verano for the 2012 model year to solid reviews.

New for 2013 is the Buick Verano Turbo, a powerful compact sedan with a quiet, comfortable cabin and a long list of standard features.

Fast Fact: Verano Turbo is more powerful, faster from zero to 60 miles per hour (6.2 seconds) and less expensive than the Lexus IS 250 and Acura ILX 2.4L. Last year, the Buick Verano burst on the scene with a 180-horseower, four-cylinder engine a standard automatic transmission that excited many test drivers. The new fourcylinder turbocharged engine generates 250 horsepower and 260 pounds-per-foot of torque. It can compete with the likes of the Volkswagen GTI and Audi A3.

Gas mileage for the base and turbo engines is very similar. The turbo gets a combined (city/highway) 24 miles per gallon and 30 mpg on the highway while the base model yields 25 mpg combined and 32 mpg in the wide open spaces.

It’s not only what’s under the hood that is impressive about the Verano.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $29,105 (as tested – $31,695) Engine – Four-cylinder turbo Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 21 miles per gallon (city), 30 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,200 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

The cabin is one of the quietest in its class with attractive design and quality materials. The test vehicle I drove combined a blue metallic exterior with a chocolate-colored interior.

I was astonished at how well the interior looked and felt. A richly-finished dashboard, soft leather seating and subtly lit gauges make for a nice effect.

Even downsized to a small sedan,

the Verano is definitely a Buick. It possesses a long, arching roofline like a Lacrosse. It has a low hood and a grille sized and shaped like that on a Regal to fit neatly into the Buick lineup.

The 2013 Verano comes with a list of class-competitive features that includes items such as rearview camera, touch-screen infotainment system, Bluetooth and a USB port.

Some reviewers say the Verano’s buttons are a little confusing.

Notable features include heated steering wheel, rear spoiler, MacPherson strut front suspension and Watts Z-link rear suspension, fuel-saving electric power steering and standard 18-inch wheels.

Safety features include 10 standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags, rearseat side impact air bags and front passenger knee air bags. Side blind zone alert and rear cross-traffic alert is also standard equipment.

The 2013 Verano has earned fivestar government safety ratings in overall vehicle score, frontal driver, crash passenger, side front seat and crash rear seat categories. Four stars were earned in the rollover category.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Verano’s large trunk, ample interior room and terrific Bose stereo system.

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Chevrolet Sonic RS Hatchback

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2013 Buick Verano 2 Chevy Sonic

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Dodge Grand Caravan 4 Honda Pilot 5 Hyundai Elantra 6 Hyundai Santa Fe 6 Lexus RX 350 7 Lexus ES 300h 7 Lexus RX 450h 8

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Lexus LX 570 8

hey say good things come in small packages. After generations of producing small-car disappointments, Chevrolet never could appreciate the old adage. Remember the Aveo, Chevette, Vega and Citation?

However, those days are over.

Two years ago, Chevrolet introduced the Sonic sedan to remedy past failures in the subcompact segment. With a long list of standard features rolled into a small frame, Chevy actually got it right that time.

For 2013, the Sonic RS has been added as the sportiest ride in the Sonic lineup. Chevrolet says the RS is a throwback to the old Rally Sport days.

As with the Camaro and Cruze (the only other Chevys offered with an RS appearance package), the Sonic looks better as an RS than it does in lesser LS, LT and LTZ trims.

While I’ve never been a hatchback buff, the Sonic RS five-door has a certain swagger to it. From the diamond-shaped fog lamps to the motorcycle-inspired round headlamps to its RS-specific roof-mounted rear spoiler, the RS is outwardly aggressive.

A member of Generation Next in her early twenties commented that she liked the way the vehicle looked when I stopped at a local convenience store. I told her that it

SPECS

MSRP base price – $21,470 (as tested - $22,280) Engine – 1.4-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 25 miles per gallon (city), 33 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,900 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

didn’t have a CD player and she said it’s all about Bluetooth now.

Inside the Sonic RS, I was impressed with the comfortable leather seats trimmed in sueded-microfiber inserts and contrasting red stitching. It’s probably just me, but the fold-down armrest on the driver’s chair was somewhat awkward. There’s also an abundance of hard plastic inside, but that’s par for the course in subcompacts.

There’s a bold asymmetrical instrument cluster on the dash that features a large, round analog tachometer paired with a rectangular digital speedometer.

All Sonic models for 2013 get standard

Bluetooth phone connectivity and blindspot mirrors along with the option of the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system that includes a touchscreen, streaming audio, a navigation app and additional smartphone-compatible services.

The RS was the most fun small car to drive that I’ve ever encountered.

Armed with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, the RS has some pep in a slow car kind of way. They tell me the six-speed manual transmission is even more fun to drive.

It feels like you’re driving a heavier car.

That’s due to Chevrolet making suspension changes like stiffening the coil springs and lowering the ride height. You’ll quickly learn to take inclines at an angle. The steering is downright superb.

Standard equipment includes heated front seats, satellite radio, air conditioning, cruise control and electric power steering.

A long list of safety and security features include 10 standard frontal and side curtain air bags, traction and stability control, antilock brakes and front knee air bags. Also standard is OnStar, which includes automatic crash notification, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle locator and remote door unlock.

Chevrolet has put together quite a small package.

Nissan Armada 9 Toyota Tacoma 10 Toyota Avalon 11 Toyota RAV4 11 Toyota Camry 12 Toyota Yaris 12

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Dodge Grand Caravan SXT

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t’s one of my all-time favorites.

The Dodge Grand Caravan logged a lot of miles with my family in tow. Family vacations to Colorado, California (twice), Florida (twice) and South Padre Island produced a ton of good times and memories. All the pictures we took tell a story and the Grand Caravan was in a good portion of those photographs.

When we take a trip, we don’t pack lightly. On one of our forays to SoCal, my father marveled at how much stuff we unloaded from the so-called minivan. There’s nothing mini about it. The Grand Caravan is a veritable warehouse on wheels.

We didn’t sever ties with our 1989 DGC until my daughter was involved in an accident and MSRP base price – $26,695 (as tested the van ended up with all four tires aimed at the sky. Fortunate- $32,875) ly, my daughter escaped with just Engine – 3.6-liter V6 a few bumps and bruises. Alas, Transmission – Six-speed automatic we still have our memories.

Dodge is the undisputed Fuel economy – 17 miles per gallon leader in America’s minivan (city), 25 mpg (highway) category. In 2012, the Grand Caravan and its Chrysler Town Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,650 & Country cousin combined to (based on $3.55 per gallon) sell more than 250,000 vehicles, which represented half of the minivans sold in this country.

Nissan, Toyota, Ford and Honda integrated trailer sway damping is now standard on all are still trying to catch up. models and a new industry-exclusive dual-screen BluFor 2013, Dodge has lowered the base price to Ray video system is available on the Grand Caravan a 15-year low of $19,995. According to Dodge, that Crew and R/T models. makes the 2013 Grand Caravan the most affordable The basic design of the current-generation Grand seven-passenger vehicle on sale in the U.S. Caravan has been around since 2008, but it still looks Yet despite its low price, the Grand Caravan keeps fresh up against the competition. adding attractive new features. For example, a secondGrand Caravan rides lower and more firmly than row bench seat is standard equipment on base models,

SPECS

minivans did a few years ago, making it more responsive to driver inputs. Long gone are the annoying wallow and float once common throughout the segment.

Power is provided by a 3.6-liter V6 engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers 283 horsepower. It’s smooth and quiet while offering decent punch from a standstill and enough in reserve for passing. Fuel economy is among the best in its class.

Grand Caravan offers an intriguing interior that is characterized by lots of usable space. The clever Super Stow ‘n Go secondand third-row seats can be stored in the floorboard with a pull of a lever.

The dashboard is hard plastic and the instrumentation consists of black dials offset by blue-tinted graphics and chrome trim.

A handsome threespoke steering wheel incorporates trip computer, phone, audio and cruise control buttons. The DVD entertainment system is easy to operate. The convex conversation mirror is handy for talking to those in the rear seats without

turning around.

On top of everything else, the Dodge Grand Caravan is one of the safest minivans available. The latest Grand Caravan earned five-star ratings in both the side front seat and crash rear seat categories in tests administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

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Honda Pilot Touring

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ooks can be so deceiving. At first glance, the 2013 Honda Pilot Touring eight-passenger sports utility vehicle appears to have received no major changes from last year’s version. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Honda engineers have given the latest Pilot a technology upgrade that includes a redesigned center stack that houses an eight-inch multi-information display and features a rearview camera and other systems.

Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and streaming audio add convenience when paired with an appropriate mobile phone, and standard USB connectivity and a 2GB CD library add further entertainment possibilities.

Pilot’s trim levels include the LX (basic), EX (fancier trim), EX-L (leather and sunroof) and the top-of-the-line Touring with navigation and DVD system. There are trim levels for every need and desire along with plenty of accessories and attachments for skis, snowboards, surfboards, bicycles, kayaks, roof boxes for extra storage and even a tailgate tent.

Functionality, usefulness and versatility are hallmarks of the Honda Pilot. Combined that with a huge interior, good power, brakes and handling and that might explain why there are so many Pilots on the road.

Pilot’s powertrain remains unchanged with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 250 horsepower and 253 pounds-per-foot of torque. When a green “eco” lights up on the dash, that means the driver can continue saving fuel by driving the same way. Matched

squabbling with a rearview mirror on the side of the sunglass holder.

The steering wheel has audio, cruise and information systems controls while adjusting manually for both tilt and reach. The main instruments are directly

SPECS

with a five-speed automatic transmission the Pilot has good driving manners.

The five-door, four-wheel-drive Pilot Touring has a quiet, smooth ride with virtually no body motion.

It’s also nimble and maneuverable while the tri-zone automatic climate control with humidity control and air filtration ensures that all occupants are comfortable.

Even with its front end restyling from last year, the 2013 Honda Pilot continues its tradition of boxy shape, flat surfaces, strategic sculpting and gentlyrounded edges and corners. The bright grille with three chrome crossbars is the most notable departure from the previous second-generation Pilots.

The Pilot’s interior has been called plain by some, but at the very least it is pleasant and functional. Materials appear to be top of the line, seating surfaces are leather in the Touring model and the front seats are power-adjustable and heated.

Aside from the two front-row captain’s chairs, three full-sized adults can sit in the second row while three kids or small adults can fit in the third row. Front passengers can monitor any third-row

MSRP base price – $41,170 (as tested $42,000) Engine – 3.5-liter V6 Transmission – Five-speed automatic Fuel economy – 20 miles per gallon (combined city/highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,650 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

in front of the driver and well-shaded against glare.

The shifter is placed on the center stack close to the steering wheel. Now that closeness in proximity can be a nuisance if your hand slips off the steering wheel and inadvertently puts the vehicle in neutral.

There are plenty of storage areas in the Pilot, a huge front console and numerous cupholders.

Safety features include full air bag protection, front passenger occupant sensing, anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability assist. An advanced compatibility engineering front structure is utilized to maximize occupant protection and minimize under- or over-ride during collisions.

Among the class of behemoth people movers on the road, not many can match the Pilot across the board.

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Hyundai Elantra GT

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here’s an all-new hatchback on the market.

Within the small sedan segment, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT model is based on the popular Elantra sedan and replaces the discontinued Elantra Touring wagon.

Hyundai has offered hatchback versions of the Elantra before, and it doesn’t possess as much cargo space as the more wagon-like Elantra Touring that it’s replacing. Yet with the rear seats folded, the GT yields 51 cubic feet of cargo space that’s more than most of its rivals.

The 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT five-door hatchback comes in one base trim level. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, Hyundai’s Bluelink emergency communications system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker stereo with CD player and satellite radio.

Two option packages are available for the 2013 Elantra GT. The style package includes 17-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather seats and a power driver’s seat. The tech package includes a navigation system with seven-inch LCD screen, a rearview camera and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Elantra GT’s powertrain consists of a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine matched with either a six-speed manual or six-speed

automatic transmission. Both transmissions have excellent fuel economy ratings.

The acceleration of the 2013 Elantra GT isn’t one of its strengths. One performance test had the GT going from zero to 60 miles per hour in 9.5 seconds, a little slow for the segment.

On the positive side, the Elantra GT’s ride is very smooth. My 83-year-old aunt pointed that out on a trip across the city.

Buyers in the market for hatchbacks want to take advantage of its utility and fuel economy. When folding the rear seats, the seat bottoms first flip upward against the backs of the front seats and the rear seatbacks drop into the space normally occupied by the rear-seat bottoms.

This procedure takes no time and results in a flat cargo floor to load long or large items.

Rear-seat legroom and head room is surprisingly generous, seats in the front and rear are comfortable and I was particularly impressed with the detailed graphics on the navigation system. The control layout is excellent.

The all-new Elantra GT offers standard anti-lock brakes and stability control. Front side air bags, side curtain air bags and a driver’s knee air bag are also standard equipment. The latter feature is a first in the Elantra lineup.

Hyundai Santa Fe Ltd

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ho would have believed it? If someone said there is a crossover utility vehicle that offers its share of luxury, a long list of standard features, a spirited performance and comes at an affordable price, would you believe it?

After seven days of test driving the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited all-wheel-drive crossover vehicle, I can answer that question without hesitation.

Redesigned for 2013, the Santa Fe delivers.

Hyundai is offering two models of the Santa Fe for the first time. Last year’s five-passenger Santa Fe is now the Santa Fe Sport. The six or seven-passenger Santa Fe replaces the Hyundai Veracruz and features a third row of seats.

The larger Santa Fe comes with a 3.3-liter V6 engine that packs 290 horsepower and 252 pounds-per-foot of torque.

Santa Fe Sport buyers have an option of either a 2.4-liter fourcylinder or a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder. With only a marginal gain in fuel economy and a sizable boost in output, the turbo appears to be the engine of choice.

The only available transmission is a six-speed automatic.

Standard features on the Limited model include 19-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, cruise control, dual zone automatic climate control with clean air ionizer, 4.3-inch color touch-

screen audio system with rearview camera and a power liftgate.

Optional equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, navigation system with eight-inch touchscreen, manual rear side window sunshades and a 12-speaker Infinity Logic Surround Sound audio system that boasts 550 watts of power.

Santa Fe’s interior stacks up well against its competitors, most notably the Chevrolet Equinox, Kia Sorrento, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Venza. The dashboard carries a shield of controls at its center and flanks them with big air vents. The two-tone flavor can wake up a cabin in woodgrain or glossy trim.

The 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe is a six or seven-passenger SUV that is available in GLS and Limited trim levels. Second-

SPECS

MSRP base price – $19,395 (as tested – $25,365) Engine – 1.8-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Six-speed automatic with manual mode Fuel economy – 30 miles per gallon (combined city/highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,800 (based on $3.55 per gallon) Hyundai’s Bluelink system includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlock, stolen vehicle tracking and vehicle alarm notification.

The Ford Focus, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golfs of the world may not like their new competitor.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $34,850 (as tested – $38,730) Engine – 3.3-liter V6 Transmission – Six-speed automatic with manual mode Fuel economy – 20 miles per gallon (combined city/highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,650 (based on $3.55 per gallon) row seats can be replaced with two captain’s chairs. The smaller Santa Fe Sport seats five and is offered in base and 2.0T trims.

Safety features for all Santa Fe models include anti-lock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags, front seat active head restraints and hill hold and descent control.

In government crash testing, the Santa Fe earned a “good” rating in frontal offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. The Santa Fe Sport earned a top score of five stars in overall crash protection, frontal impact safety and side-impact safety.

Hyundai has come a long way in reaching the top tier of standard-sized SUVs. The 2013 Santa Fe is proof of it.

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SPECS

Lexus ES 300H

Nods of appreciation greeted the 2013 Lexus RX 350 F Sport everywhere I went.

Hybrid Sedan

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he ES model has always been a top seller for Lexus due to its reputation for reliability, solid construction and a comfortable ride.

For 2013, the Lexus ES is completely redesigned. A bit larger, Lexus has overhauled the suspension and steering for improved car control, along with revising the interior for up-to-date design and additional high-tech features.

The ES 300h has these same qualities as well, but that little “h” represents a big difference under the hood.

There have been five Lexus hybrids to date, but only the RX crossover has been a hit with consumers in a significant way. The others were either not fuel-efficient enough or just didn’t possess the premium look and feel expected from Lexus.

A hybrid in the classic sense, the Lexus ES 300h is all about fuel economy.

With a combined (city/highway) fuel economy rating at 40 miles per gallon, the ES 300h isn’t quite at the level

of the Toyota Prius, yet it is about five mpg better than the other hybrid models.

It appears that Lexus has come up with a luxury, hybrid sedan that actually lives up to expectations.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, fog lights, LED running lights, a sunroof, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, Lexus Safety Connect emergency communications, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.

The powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that together produce 200 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission are standard. The ES 300h will go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 8.1 seconds, which is pretty good for a hybrid.

Every 2013 Lexus ES 300h comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side

MSRP base price – $24,450 (as tested - $26,525) Engine – 2.4-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 21 miles per gallon (city), 29 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,200 (based on $3.55 per gallon) air bags, side curtain air bags and front knee air bags. The Lexus Safety Connect consists of automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle location and an emergency assist button.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the ES the highest possible rating of “Good” in its frontal offset, side and roof strength tests.

In the interior of the ES 300h, there’s still wood trim available. The analog clock in the center of the dash is a nice touch that breaks up the otherwise high-tech environment.

When you opt for the Display audio or Navigation packages, you get the Lexus Remote Touch system, a mouse-like device that controls a cursor on a large, centrally-located screen. The computer-savvy crowd seems to like this feature, while others not so much.

The ES 300h’s cabin is spacious enough for most drivers and passengers. The latest version is closer in size to a full-size Avalon than the smaller Camry. Rear legroom is a major plus.

Lexus RX 350 SUV

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ith revised styling for 2013, the Lexus RX 350 five-door sports utility vehicle introduces a new F Sport package that offers a sport-tuned suspension, an available eight-speed automatic transmission and special styling cues.

The interior receives a few design and functionality enhancements as well, while the standard equipment list expands to include a power liftgate and iPod/USB audio interface.

A pioneer at one point, the Lexus RX 350 introduced the world to the luxury car-based SUV. As more entries flooded the market this type of vehicle would later be dubbed a “crossover.” Yet despite the added competition the Lexus RX 350 remains the bestselling luxury crossover.

The F Sport package adds to all-wheel-drive models 19-inch wheels, special white-accented interior trim and perforated leather upholstery.

The 2013 Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower 248 pounds-per-feet of torque. A sixspeed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard,

and all-wheel drive is optional. The F Sport package includes all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Notably quiet, the 3.5-liter V6 engine is powerful enough to swiftly accelerate the vehicle with ease. From a standstill, the RX 350 can motor from zero to 60 miles per hour in a little over seven seconds.

When it comes to ride quality, the 2013 Lexus RX 350 supplies compliant suspension and plentiful sound insulation isolate passengers from the outside world in a silent bubble of luxury.

The softly sprung suspension never feels floaty, while the steering provides more weighting and response than past RX models.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, fog lights, LED running lamps, rear privacy glass, heated mirrors, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, dualzone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats with two-way adjustable lumbar, a sliding and reclining rear seat and a nine-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer and satellite radio.

Inside the RX 350, upscale appointments, exceptional cabin materials and cutting-edge tech features give the vehicle an expensive feel. Authentic wood trim, high-quality leather and an optional Mark Levinson sound system only adds to the experience.

With the display and navigation systems, you get the Lexus remote touch mouse-like device that allows the user to move

among a variety of icons on a large centrally-locate screen. Though a neat system, it can command too much of the driver’s attention.

Every 2013 Lexus RX 350 comes standard with anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side air bags, side curtain air bags, front knee air bags and the Safety Connect emergency communications system that includes automatic collision notification, an emergency assist button and stolen vehicle location services.

The optional adaptive cruise control system includes a precollision warning system.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $39,310 (as tested - $52,185) Engine – 3.5-liter V6 Transmission – Eight-speed automatic Fuel economy – 18 miles per gallon (city), 25 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,550 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

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Lexus LX 570 SUV

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veryone deserves to live in the lap of luxury at least once in their lives. The 2013 Lexus LX 570 five-door luxury sports utility vehicle affords such an opportunity.

Is it affordable to the masses? If you have to ask, this vehicle is probably not for

After taking the 2012 model year off, the LX 570 returns as one of the top choices in the large luxury SUV field. The competition includes the Land Rover Range Rover, Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX56, Mercedes Benz GL450 and the diesel-powered GL350.

The new LX gets a host of Lexus-wide design changes for 2013, including replacing the former front grille with the angular Lexus spindle grille. Standard HID headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, a new bumper and larger fog lamps all contribute to a needed facelift.

Upgrades continue in the rear with new LED tail lamps and a revised bumper with a stainless steel accent strip. The LX retained the horizontally-split tailgate that resembles a clam shell when opening. The top half can be opened with the bottom half still in place to aid in loading small packages.

Lexus left the interior of the LX 570 virtually intact with a few minor changes. Buttons are easy to reach and smartly

labeled. The big color LCD touch screen is prominent at the top of the center dashboard stack. A new ECO driving indicator light is visible right in front of the driver.

Technology is a major element for Lexus, and the LX 570 serves as a benchmark to display innovations. Hard discbased navigation is included along with a Bluetooth handsfree phone, audio streaming, digital sound processing and an optional Mark Levinson surround sound audio system with 19 speakers.

Under the hood, the LX 570 shares the same powertrain that Toyota utilizes in the Land Cruiser, including a 5.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The big engine yields 383 horsepower and 403 pounds-per-foot of torque. That’s what gives the 6,000-pound LX some pep.

The LX 570 has multi-terrain select, which enables the driver to choose from five different kinds of terrain to match throttle, engine and suspension settings to ground conditions.

Even with all the technology and upgrades, the LX 570 continues to adhere to some old- school methodology.

Body-on-frame construction helps ensure a limo-like ride for passengers. Solid rear axle construction ensures top-notch off-road driving.

There’s a good feel to the LX 570 with controlled body roll around curves and huge ventilated disc brakes to bring

SPECS

MSRP base price – $80,930 (as tested – $90,170) Engine – 5.7-liter V8 Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 12 miles per gallon (city), 17 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $4,050 (based on $3.80 per gallon) this big beauty to a halt. At a speed of 60 miles per hour, the LX 570 came to a stop in an unprecedented 119 feet for this category.

With a 24.6 gallon fuel tank that requires 91-octane unleaded fuel, the LX 570 yields approximately 418 miles in between fill-ups. Fuel economy goes down to 12 miles per gallon in the city.

Every 2013 Lexus LX 570 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side air bags, full-length side curtain air bags and front knee air bags. Also standard is Lexus Safety Connect emergency communications with automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and an emergency assist button.

Lexus RX 450h Hybrid SUV

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he sports utility vehicle has always been one of my favorite categories ever since they became widely popular in the early 1990s. Just about every automaker on earth sells one and most offer a collection of SUVs that vary in shape and size.

Lexus prides itself in the pursuit of perfection.

Nearly four out of every 10 vehicles sold by Lexus is an SUV. The Lexus RX 450h hybrid five-door SUV was selected the 2013 Best Hybrid SUV for the Money because it provides outstanding fuel economy in a truly luxurious package. In the past, that statement would have been considered a paradox.

It gets better. The 2013 Lexus RX 450h has a plush ride with accurate steering, a spacious interior with upscale materials and plenty of high-tech features. It’s a midsize luxury SUV that seats five people. Only one trim level is offered.

Authentic wood trim and high-quality leather lend the vehicle an air of opulence. The optional Mark Levinson sound system is one of the best available anywhere.

When you opt for the display audio or navigation packages,

you get the Lexus remote touch system, which is a mouse-like device that enables the user to move among a variety of icons on a large centrally-located screen. The device takes some getting used to, but if I can master it, I have confidence that you can too.

The RX hybrid comes standard with 18-inch wheels, automatic headlamps, fog lamps, LED running lamps, rear privacy glass, heated mirrors, a power liftgate and keyless ignition/entry. You also get automatic dual climate control, a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, eight-way power front seats along with reclining and sliding rear seats.

Powering the Lexus RX 450h is the combination of a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 engine and an electric motor. Front-wheel drive models utilize two motors. One serves as a starter/generator and the other provides propulsion. The all-wheel drive RX adds a third electric motor to drive the rear wheels.

With a total of 295 horsepower, the RX 450h can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 7.5 seconds. That’s about par with other midsize crossovers. The engine gets a little noisy at full throttle. The RX 450h can tow 3,500 pounds.

Every 2013 Lexus RX 450h has antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front and rear side air bags, side curtain air bags and front knee air bags. Other safety features include the Safety Connect emergency communications system with automatic collision

SPECS

MSRP base price – $45,910 (as tested – $53,470) Engine – 3.5-liter V6 with electric drive motors Transmission – Electronically controlled continuously variable Fuel economy – 30 miles per gallon combined city/highway Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,900 (based on $3.80 per gallon) notification, an emergency assist button and stolen vehicle location services.

In government crash tests, the RX 450h earned four out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars for frontal impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the RX 450h its top rating in the frontal-offset, side roof-strength crash tests.

The RX 450h can be a little pricey if you’re not careful. Do your homework because you’ll probably own this vehicle a long time.

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Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve 4X4 SUV

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t’s Nissan’s flagship sports utility vehicle. For 2013, the Armada adds a Platinum Reserve Package that’s like adding the cherry on top of a cream sundae.

The name itself implies that you get both size and substance.

Nissan delivers with an eightpassenger road vehicle that possesses a best in the category soft, luxury ride.

With a boxy styling coupled with a tall stance, the 2013 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve SUV has a formidable road presence. It’s not quite as big as Chevrolet’s Suburban or GMC’s Denali XL, and also doesn’t cost quite as much.

Power comes from a 5.6-liter V8 engine matched with a five-speed automatic transmission. Independent suspension at all four corners give Armada a super controlled ride.

Road obstacles like potholes and railroad tracks barely faze the Armada.

Braking and handling are exquisite.

You have the option of traveling in rearwheel drive or off-road 4X4 mode.

The Armada’s interior is just as impressive. For starters, there’s the cavernous cabin that feels like you’re sitting in your living room. The two-tone almond/ chocolate leather seating was downright ritzy. Throw in the wood-grain trim on the doors, dashboard and console, well you get the picture.

There’s also sonar object avoidance that you can switch on or off. It beeps if you get too near another object front or rear, plus there’s a backup camera that shows on the navigation/radio screen in the middle of the dash.

Armada also has power-adjustable pedals, so shorter drivers can move the accelerator and brake closer if need be.

The rear hatch powers up and down, as do the split third-row seats. Press a button in the cargo area and down they go, individually. You can carry up to eight passengers or fold down one seat and carry

seven passengers with more cargo space.

Standard equipment includes heated front and second-row seats, Bose audio system with 11 speakers, MP3/CD-Rom playback capability, front tow hooks, power sliding moonroof and side step rails.

Among the safety features are driver and front passenger, side-impact and curtain air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, engine immobilizer system and vehicle security system.

You don’t get the best fuel economy with the Armada, but buyers in this vehicle segment expect that. Its cousin, the Infiniti Q56 with a seven-speed automatic transmission, might yield better gas savings over time. I drove the Armada for seven days and still had a half tank left.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $56,180 (as tested - $59,265) Engine – 5.6-liter V8 Transmission – Five-speed automatic Fuel economy – 14 miles per gallon combined city/highway Estimated annual fuel cost – $3,800 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

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DEFENDER | DECEMBER | 2013

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Toyota Tacoma DBL Cab 4X4

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hange is good when there’s a need for change. Otherwise, you’re changing just for the sake of changing.

That’s not always a

with a 6.1-inch touch-screen display.

The street-oriented sport package offers a 4.0-liter V6 engine matched with a five-speed automatic MSRP base price – $28,085 (as tested – $34,980) transmission, 17-inch alloy wheels, a hood scoop, a sport suspension, hill Engine – 4.0-liter V6 wise choice. start assist and hill descent control on Transmission – Five-speed automatic Besides a new Limited package, automatic transmission models, fender the 2013 Toyota Tacoma is virtually flares, deck-mounted AC power in the Fuel economy – 16 miles per gallon (city), 21 mpg (highway) unchanged from the 2012 version. Why bed, an upgraded sound system and fog Estimated annual fuel cost – $2,950 (based on $3.55 per gallon) change what already is the top pick in lamps. a not-so-crowded midsize (compact) While the interior is far from fancy, truck category? The other choices it is nice with comfortable front seats, are the Honda Ridgeline and Nissan roomy rear cabin, easy-to-read gauges, Frontier. Ford and General Motors rear seats that flip down for more cargo don’t currently offer selections in this space and ample storage space. The segment. doors don’t automatically lock which I The Tacoma provides plenty of believe should be mandatory. There’s choices, ranging from body styles, also no information center like for miles engines, trim levels, drivetrains and until empty or current miles per gallon. suspensions. It depends on whether you Any shortcomings are quickly need it as a light-duty work truck or a offset by Tacoma’s rugged construction comfortable family vehicle. quality, excellent reliability and modern It’s quietly becoming the choice electronic conveniences like iPod of former fuel-thirsty full-size truck connectivity and web-based application owners looking to downsize without integration through Toyota’s Entune sacrificing functionality. Buyers can system. outfit the Tacoma from the base model Standard safety features include bench seat regular cab to the fullyantilock brakes with brake assist, who enjoy off-road driving and others that simply loaded limited edition off-road V6 workhorse. stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact want a sharp-looking city truck.

The Tacoma is available with four-cylinder air bags, full-length side curtain air bags and front Standard equipment on the Tacoma regular and V6 engines and with rear and four-wheel-drive active head restraints. cab includes a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with a drivetrains. Three cab types are offered, including In government crash testing, the Tacoma choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic regular, access (extended cab with small rear-hinged received an overall rating of four stars (out of a transmission, 15-inch wheels, a limited slip doors) cab and the four-door double cab. possible five) with three stars for frontal crashes and differential, air conditioning, a composite bedliner, I had the pleasure of test driving the five stars for side impacts. a bed utility rail system, a cloth bench seat, a tilt/ Tacoma double cab 4X4 with the Toyota Racing Why change when what you have is already telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and Development sport package that appeals to those pretty good. audio streaming and a four-speaker sound system

SPECS

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Toyota Avalon Hybrid Four-Door Sedan

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ess than a week before the arrival of the 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited, a friend and I were discussing underrated vehicles, and the Avalon was at the top of the list.

The Avalon Hybrid’s arrival was just in time for our annual trek to Austin for the state high school track and field meet. Four of us media types make that trip, and one is a cynic who can rarely be satisfied, especially when it comes to cars. When we returned the cynic had been converted.

The all-new 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid offers great fuel economy, has numerous standard features, including a comfortable, well-equipped interior, and is one of the safest vehicles on the road.

Following the trip to Austin, I drove to Baytown the next morning and there was still a quarter of a tank of fuel left. You get better than 500 miles per full tank of gas and the Avalon Hybrid gets a combined (city/ highway) 40 miles per gallon.

The Avalon Hybrid is powered by a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor which provides more than adequate power. Traveling at speeds upwards of 70 miles per hour and the air conditioning running full blast the entire trip, we still got better than 40 mpg.

The transitions between gas and electric power are virtually impossible to detect.

divisions.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid seats five passengers and has front-wheel drive. Three trims are offered – XLE Premium (base), XLE Touring and Limited.

The only negative would be that the Avalon Hybrid is a bit pricey.

A spacious, upscale interior with incredible legroom in the backseat, offers a tri-zone climate control with air filtration and rear seat vents, a backup camera, push-button start, an eight-speaker stereo with Bluetooth phone and audio streaming/USB port and a navigation system with satellite radio.

Other standard equipment includes a 3.5-inch multi-information display, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, power rear sunshade, leather seating, rain sensing windshield wipers, power tilt/ slide moonroof, heated outside mirrors with turn signals and sport, Eco and EV drive mode switch.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the 2013 Avalon Hybrid an overall vehicle score of five stars in a five-star rating system. Four stars were awarded in the rollover and frontal driver categories. Five stars were awarded in the crash passenger, side front seat and crash rear seat

TOYOTA RAV4 XLE

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he Toyota Rav4 crossover sports utility vehicle is fully redesigned for 2013. Gone are the optional V6 engine, third-row seat and spare tire mounted outside the rear gate. New features include a six-speed automatic transmission, improved fuel economy and more vigor in the acceleration.

Another upgrade is replacing the old side-hinged swing gate that swung out to the right and hindered curbside loading with the debut of a roof-hinged liftgate. The new liftgate is not nearly as heavy since the spare tire is now housed under the rear cargo floor.

Compact crossover SUVs have enjoyed renewed popularity in recent years. Drivers of full-sized SUVs back in the 1990s and early 2000s that had gotten used to elevated driving positions, cavernous cargo area and gas bills that could make you cry were looking for a more manageable package.

Now midsize sedan owners are choosing compact crossover SUVs as the family vehicle.

Rav4’s competition includes the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.

The Rav4 is a five-passenger vehicle offered in three trim levels: LE, XLE and Limited. The LE comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlamps, power folding exterior mirrors, rear privacy glass, full power accessories, air conditioning, cruise control, a rearview camera and a sixspeaker sound system with six-inch touchscreen.

The XLE adds 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, roof rails, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and sportier front seats. An option package yields a navigation system, Toyota’s EnTune smartphone integration system, satellite radio along with HD radio and voice controls.

A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower 172 pounds-per-foot of torque is standard on all Rav4s. A six-speed automatic transmission is also standard and the Rav4 is available in either front- or all-wheel drive.

Sharing motifs with the current Camry and Avalon, the Rav4 has an all-new interior for 2013. More defined angles and lines create a streamlined and modern-looking dashboard. All the conventional controls are easy to use and the interior design and materials get a thumbs-up as well.

The rear seat reclines to an impressive degree so that even taller passengers can get comfortable. The rear cargo area measures 38.4 cubic feet and expands to a generous 73.3 cubes when

SPECS

MSRP base price –$41,400 (as tested – $44,199) Engine – 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motor Transmission – Continuously variable Fuel economy – 40 miles per gallon (combined city/highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,350 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

the second row is folded down. A low load-in height for the rear cargo floor makes it easier to maneuver heavy items.

Although the V6 engine is gone, the four-cylinder has surprising pep for navigating freeway or traffic conditions. The 2013 Rav4 handles well and has a quiet ride. Braking and cornering are more than adequate and the suspension handles bumps well.

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, whiplash reducing front head restraints, front seat side air bags and full-length side curtain air bags come standard on every 2013 Toyota Rav4. A driver knee air bag is also standard. Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert systems are available on the Limited trim.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $24,290 Engine – 2.5-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 24 miles per gallon (city), 31 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – Three years or 36,000 miles

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Toyota Camry XLE

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he engineers at Toyota are masterful at transforming sensible vehicles into best-sellers. The 2013 Toyota Camry XLE four-door sedan is another classic example.

The latest seventh-generation Camry is a good pick for those who value comfort, value and safety.

The Camry has a reputation for durability and practicality. Historically, the front-wheel drive Camry has been able to acquit itself across the board in most categories while building up a stream of return customers. You can always dress up the Camry with a V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension or other premium features.

Although re-designed last year, the result was a more upright front end, boxier corners, a few more creases and a different roofline. This year’s version is virtually the same.

While driving to Austin recently, two impressions were fairly obvious. The 2013 Camry XLE is a great travel vehicle with plenty of interior comfort and very good fuel efficiency. The base four-cylinder Camry performs better than ever. The V6 fills a void for those hungry for more power.

The Camry’s interior is another plus. There’s noticeably more rear seat room due to thinner front-seat design and new packaging. Ride comfort is impressive and trunk space is improved due to the boxier corners.

Standard equipment includes projectorbeam headlamps with automatic on/off feature, daytime running lamps, dual zone automatic climate control, 6.1-inch display touch screen, woodgrain style interior trim, center armrest with cupholders, chrometipped exhaust, power tilt/slide moonroof and rear seat reading lamps.

Other standard equipment includes a 178-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

When it comes to safety, the 2013 Toyota Camry XLE sedan earned a top rating of five stars overall in government testing. Five stars were given out in frontal driver, side front seat and crash rear seat categories.

Four stars were earned in rollover and crash passengers divisions.

Stability and traction control, 10 air bags, anti-

lock brakes with brake assist, tire pressure monitor, front and rear side curtain, driver and front passenger knee and seat-mounted side air bags and whiplash injury-lessening front seats.

Technology features include Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming, navigation with rear camera and touch screen, HD and satellite radio along with the new Entune mobile app and services system.

The Camry is available in four trim levels, including the L, LE, SE and the highend XLE.

SPECS

MSRP base price – $24,855 (as tested – $30,295) Engine – 2.5-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Six-speed automatic Fuel economy – 25 miles per gallon (city), 35 mpg (highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,900 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

Toyota Yaris SE Hatchback One of my primary issues in regard to buying a subcompact is vehicle safety. There’s just something about being surrounded by less that has me wanting more – as in assurances.

In addition, most people in the market for a subcompact are seeking excellent fuel economy, low operating costs and a great deal on the purchase price. Some versatility and reliability only sweetens the deal.

In the very competitive subcompact category, Toyota has answered with a better package. The 2013 Toyota Yaris is vastly superior to any of its predecessors.

With three additional inches to the wheelbase, backseat occupants have more legroom and the rear cargo area has expanded.

While you don’t buy subcompacts for the pure driving experience, the 2013 Yaris has sharper driving dynamics such as handling, response and braking. The ride is devoid of the harshness that pervaded it in years past.

Yaris is only available in either two- or four-door hatchback (liftback). That’s Toyota’s deliberate strategy to limit option combinations and make it fairly easy to own a Yaris. The other plus of downsized options is a healthy dose of standard equipment.

Available in the L, LE and sportier SE trim levels, the base trim (L) offers 15-inch wheels, a rear windshield wiper,

SPECS

MSRP base price – $17,280 (as tested – $18,255) Engine – 1.5-liter four-cylinder Transmission – Four-speed automatic Fuel economy – 32 miles per gallon (combined city/highway) Estimated annual fuel cost – $1,650 (based on $3.55 per gallon)

power door locks, air conditioning, four-way adjustable front seats, a tilt steering wheel, trip computer, fold-down rear

bench seat and a six-speaker sound system with CD player as standard equipment.

Those opting for the SE trim get a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels with sport tires, a unique Toyota grille, four-wheel disc brakes, fog lamps, power windows with driver’s side automatic up/down feature, cruise control, Bluetooth with voice command, USB port with iPod connectivity, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and an upgraded cloth upholstery.

Standard safety features include antilock brakes (rear drums for all models except SE, which gets four-wheel discs), traction and stability control, front seat side air bags, front and rear side curtain air bags and a driver’s side knee air bags.

The Yaris earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest possible rating of “Good” in the frontal offset, side and roof strength tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the Yaris an overall rating of four stars out of five in total score. Five stars were awarded the Yaris in frontal driver, side front seat and crash rear seat categories.

The interior materials are well-finished and appear durable. The split-folding rear seat adds versatility and there is 15.6 cubic feet of cargo space.

The front-wheel drive Yaris is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 106 horsepower and 103 pounds-per-foot of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard with a four-speed automatic offered as an option.

Toyota is back in the game. That’s for sure.

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