The 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring is a value-minded, hatchback / sedan. More traditional design than some of the latest automaker to offer what may be missing the Touring in prominent positions in pizzazz it makes. In many cases, an Elantra Touring same features as the competition end up costing less. This can be attributed to the belief Hyundai in pairs a lot of equipment with competitive pricing.

The Touring is powered by a 2.0-liter 138 horsepower engine that can be linked to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. There are two models: base GLS and the more upscale SE. What is immediately clear how the cabin is spacious and comfortable. Offering spacious and cushy seats for front and rear passengers, the Touring is a pleasant way to get across the city. Cargo room is excellent, and with the seats folded, you're compromising compact SUV territory. The Touring has a solid build quality, better than expected handling, excellent visibility while driving, and many of the standard functions. People who enjoy the conservative styling, this spacious carrier gives a glimpse.

Body style: five-door hatchback / wagon.

Engine: 2.0-liter, four cylinder

Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic

Models: GLS, SE

The 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring is largely unchanged. Volcanic Red and White Pigeon join the color palette. Touring now includes 16-inch alloy wheels on the preferred package renamed. A new roadside assistance kit is optional. Keep the back in place and you will find 24.3 cubic feet of space and 65.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded. The Elantra Touring is expected to be redesigned for next year, and are in the U.S. similar to the new European Hyundai i30.

Styling is homey and no frills compared to the more modern and dynamic design Hyundai Elantra. Although they share the Elantra name, the hatchback is not yet received updated facade, which is expected for the 2013 model. Those who prefer a more conservative, traditional hatchback will Touring humble attitude. The newest model gets 16-inch alloy wheels on the Preferred package to replace the standard 15-inch wheels. Two colors are new for 2012: Volcanic Red, White and Dove.

The current Elantra Touring is a simple, versatile, value-minded carrier. The cabin is very spacious, with comfortable seating for both the front and rear occupants. Large cargo space available, besting some compact SUVs. The Touring offers easy to use controls, for example, climate institutions are large and close at hand. The cabin is simple and unadorned. Leather seats are available on the Elantra Touring SE. Cruise control and a cooled glove box are options.

The current generation Elantra Touring's 2.0-liter, 136 horsepower, four-cylinder engine offers a surprisingly fun-to-drive sedan experience. Steering is light, but the sporting driving dynamics provide a lively ride and decent cornering. The five-speed manual provides an extra touch of sportiness, but we would recommend that you wait for new powertrain options for the Elantra, which is projected to be both powerful and economical. We also expect a hybrid option at some point for the hatchback.

In government crash tests, the Elantra Touring was the highest score, with five stars in frontal crash tests. Four-star ratings were given for side-impact tests. Elantra Touring comes standard with six airbags: two for front and side curtain. His four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake force distribution, and tire-pressure monitoring. Traction and stability control are optional.

GLS Touring, SE Touring: 23 mpg highway mpg city/30-31

The Accent is Hyundai's budget-minded subcompact car and it has been completely redesigned for 2012 in an effort to provide a more luxurious appearance and quality to supply the lowest priced offer. The new 2012 Hyundai Accent comes with the full line of Hyundai's standard equipment, including standard disc brakes on all four wheels - a class exclusive.

Body style: Four-door sedan, five-door hatchback

Engines: 1.6L I-4

Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

Models: GLS, GS, SE

The Accent is all new for 2012 and win Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' design language. The four-door sedan body style remains, but the three-door hatchback has been replaced by a five-door hatchback. The wheelbase has increased 2.8 inches more interior space. The Accent gets Hyundai's new "GAMMA" 1.6-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower on tap. Last year, five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions are replaced with new six-speed manual or automatic available in flavors. A number of passive and active safety features are standard for the Hyundai Accent, including four disc brakes.

The Accent finally gets Hyundai's' fluid sculpture "design theme, making the system can get family resemblance to its larger Elantra and Sonata siblings. Overall Accent hatch is a smart, contemporary look that should appeal to a broad spectrum of the budget-minded car buying public. The Accent sedan also has a fresh look, but it's not as fat as the slightly larger and more expensive Elantra. The 2012 Accent rides on a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase and is now 3, 5 inches overall compared to the 2011 model.

Like the exterior styling updates, the accent was on the inside. The dashboard of the monochromatic "tech" design with the better-than-average class of plastic trim give the interior a more luxurious look than the price indicates. The premium cloth seats are nicely supportive. Air conditioning is standard on the GS and SE trim levels, but optional on GLS. Rear leg room feels bigger than its competitors. The sedan has a trunk with 13.7 cubic feet trunk. The folding rear seats increase the Accent hatchback cargo capacity of 21.2 cubic meters to 47.5.

Accent the class-leading 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque helps speed up the highway without much drama. The Motor Trend test team obtained a 9.2-second sprint to 60 mph the Accent SE hatch. Ride quality is on the firm side, but the treatment has helped balance the standard stability control. The 2012 Accent electrical control has a minimum of effort, but the feeling is more consistent compared to the model it replaces. When it came time to stop the four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with four hubcaps and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), the subcompact comes to a halt with aplomb.

Hyundai offers a long list of standard safety features, including: six airbags (front impact, front seat-mounted side impact and curtain side-effect), front-seat active head restraints, Hyundai's Collision Load Dispersion Mechanism, back bar, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) , Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Management and Motor Drive Power Steering (MDPS). Focus of the anti-lock brakes (ABS) also feature Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) and pulled the Accent SE we tested from 60 mph to 128 meters.

GLS: 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway (manual), 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway (automatic)

HS: 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway (manual), 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway (automatic)

SE: mpg city/40 mpg highway (manual), 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway (automatic)

For many Americans, the Impreza is associated with two three-letter abbreviations: the high-powered, rally-inspired WRX and STI. These models are loosely based on the Impreza, but for 2012, the performance variations to break up. This leaves the Subaru Impreza again function as entry-level sedan.

While the WRX STi 2011 and remains on the old platform, the 2012 Impreza's have a completely new chassis, engine, continuously variable transmission (CVT), and suspension. To improve fuel efficiency, nixed the Subaru 2.5-liter engine in favor of a smaller 2.0-liter flat-4. It makes less energy and has a smaller fuel tank, but with weight savings, the new Impreza is just as fast, and it gets 30 percent better mileage and the same range as the 2011 model.

The Impreza is still the only all-wheel-drive car in its class, and now it is the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive car in America. But this grill is not a gimmick. The new Impreza has improved steering feel, safety equipment and interior and stylish, sporty design while maintaining price.

Body styles: sedan, hatchback

Engine: 2.0-liter flat-4

Transmission: CVT, five-speed manual

Models: 2.0i, 2.0i Limited, 2.0i Sport Limited, 2.0i Premium

Everything about the 2012 Impreza's new: 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder engine, suspension, smaller fuel tank, but 30 percent increase in fuel mileage, power steering, CVT, knee airbag for driver and tons of interior infotainment functions.

The Impreza has been completely redesigned for 2012, and now that it is separate from the WRX / STi, it has its own fresh styling cues. Although the external dimensions are similar to the 2011 model, the new Impreza's nose and tail protrude so far from the wheels, making it the more impressed. The front end and grille are sporty, like the new Legacy, and there are beautiful arches framing 16 -, 17 - and 18-inch wheels.

While the external dimensions are similar to 2011, the new Impreza is actually more interior room - including a larger rear seat room and trunk volume. Subaru also upped the quality of the materials in the cabin, and made a lot of connectivity and infotainment features by default. On Limited and Sport models, a 4.3-inch LCD screen, HD Radio and iTunes switch covers. For Premium models, a six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth and a USB port, but also iPod functionality.

Dimensions for the 2012 Subaru Impreza are similar to the 2011 model, but the Subaru has a new suspension and a smaller engine - but it also has less weight. These changes positively affect fuel mileage, and Subaru says the new model is just as fast as the previous model, meaning that it is not very fast. But with a new electric power steering and familiar all-wheel drive, it's still a great handling car.

Subaru has not released any information on the new Impreza, but the 2011 model was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, and the 2012 model has a new knee airbag and whiplash protection front seats.

EPA Fuel Economy

2.0 CVT: 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway

2.0 5MT: 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway

Sticker Price: $17,495

Sticker Price: $18,995

Sticker Price: $22,095

Sticker Price: $21,595

Sticker Price: $20,295

Sticker Price: $19,795

Sticker Price: $22,395

Sticker Price: $19,595

The 2012 Audi A7 is the newest member of the Audi family, making his debut this year. The 2012 A7 is a true blending vehicle segment, as it combines the convenience of a hatchback body style with gently sloping roofline of a coupe, not much different from the class definition of Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class sedan. The A7 is a good mix between sport and luxury, and like other Audi models, it is jam-packed with technology.

This five-door hatchback is powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque produced. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Audi claims that the vehicle is so exciting to drive as it is to watch.

The interior of the 2012 Audi A7 is world class. The design is elegant, as a "wraparound" line encloses the driver and passenger, which is complemented by high quality materials, colors and wood veneers. The center console is aimed at the driver, providing easier access and allowing him to continue to concentrate on the road.

Latest version of the A7, Audi's MMI of an eight-inch pop-up display, five-inch LCD screen for the driver and optional head-up display. MMI allows the driver to enter information via phone navigation and handwriting recognition. It also serves as the interface with industry-first Audi-connect system that Google Earth navigation. Watch out Mercedes-Benz, you finally some real competition for the CLS550 CLS63 AMG and.

Body Style: Hatchback

Engine: 3.0L supercharged V-6

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Models: Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige

The Audi A7 makes his long awaited debut in 2012. It features an industry-first MMI touch that allows the driver to enter information via phone navigation and handwriting recognition. Also, the tailgate features a height-adjustable power-lift system opens with a push of a button. The A7 is equipped with a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 15 speakers. The A7 runs on 18-inch wheels, but if you're looking for something bigger, Audi offers 19 and 20-inch wheels.

The 2012 Audi A7 is essentially a coupe-like five-door hatchback, resulting in the vehicle with a sleek, sporty look. It has a low roofline and integrated rear doors are the coupé-like silhouette. This vehicle is 195.6 inches long, and has a wheelbase of 114.7 cm. The A7 is a large vehicle at 84.2 inches, and the low air intakes and horizontal bracing makes the product look wider. The 18-inch wheels polish off this futuristic vehicle.

The main feature of the interior of the 2012 Audi A7 is a "wraparound" design that surrounds the driver and front passenger. The center console and driver oriented for optimum comfort level, the front seats are 10-way adjustable and available in four-way lumbar support, three-stage fan and three-stage heating. Two different types of leather are offered for the A7 Milano or Valcona. Whatever you choose will coordinate with the four-spoke steering wheel and shift knob.

The 2012 Audi A7 will receive more than enough power from the supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine 310 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque produced. This allows the A7 to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, quite fast for a car this size. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission that results in a good balance of acceleration and fuel economy. A7 All models are equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive, the handling on this car is better than average, despite its loose control.

The A7 is a genuine product of Audi's commitment to safety. It is equipped with six airbags, and the strong floor and tunnel structure absorbs impact. The Audi headrest system helps prevent whiplash caused by rear-end collisions. Numerous opportunities are offered to the safety of yourself and others to raise. Audi offers an adaptive cruise control, Night View Assist and pedestrians that identifies and provides their silhouettes on the screen to warn the driver.

Audi A7: 18 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

Although it was redesigned for the 2011 model year, the improvements will continue for the 2012 BMW 5-series. Downsizing the basis of an atmospheric engine inline six-cylinder in small, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, BMW was able to not only the basic car faster, but also to provide an EPA highway fuel economy of 32 mpg. A turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder and 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 standard-issue rounds of the 5-series' engine options before you to the exotic M5 range-topper.

If you're a fan of the drive BMW cars, the unfortunate news that the automaker no longer the 5-series wagon in the U.S. However, its role to complete offers, BMW created a high-roof hatchback version of the 2012 BMW 5 - series called the Gran Turismo. Practical and state, the bulky, somewhat controversial styling separates it from the more conventional 5-series range.

Each model has four-wheel drive and can be loaded with a seemingly endless list of options. Although no longer available in the base BMW 528i and the all-wheel-drive 528i models, a unique feature that the 2012 BMW 5-series much of its class apart is the availability of a six-speed gearbox in the 535i and 550i sedans. All other non-M 5-Series features BMW's new eight-speed automatic. In the spring of 2012, BMW plans to offer a 5 Series ActiveHybrid with the 535i's turbocharged engine and an electric motor 335 hp grids and deliver significantly better fuel economy.

2012 BMW 5-Series The Range
Body Styles: Sedan, four-door hatchback
Engines: 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 ​​with electric motor, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8
Transmissions: eight-speed automatic, six-speed manual
Models: 528i, 535i, ActiveHybrid 5, 550i, 535i Gran Turismo, Gran Turismo 550i

2012 BMW 5-Series What's new
For the 2012 BMW 5-Series, BMW introduced its TwinPower turbocharged direct injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine of the atmospheric 3.0-liter inline-six used to represent the name 528i replaced. While paying upwards of $ 46,000 for a mid-sized luxury sedan with a four-cylinder engine may seem a big leap to take the new engine delivers the same power as the outgoing engine has more power lower down the rev range quicker to accelerate and reach 32 mpg on the highway - a 5 mpg improvement over the old engine. An automatic start-stop function for the engine is now standard on all models 528i and 535i to save fuel at traffic lights, and all-wheel drive is now available for the 528i sedan.

In addition, the ActiveHybrid 5 start spring 2012 with a 55 horsepower electric motor coupled with turbocharged 3.0-liter BMW inline-6. Together, the net effect is improved fuel economy, acceleration and a host of innovative technical solutions for everyone who need environmentally friendly gadgets.

2012 BMW 5-Series Outside
The 2012 BMW 5-Series' styling is a more conservative direction than the 2004-2010 models to replace. That's not a bad thing, though. With a very traditional, upright look with the wheels pushed to the corners, the 5-Series has an elegant, unmistakable BMW look to it. It's a welcome sight after years of off-putting lines, "flame surface" (BMW speak for folding into the body), and one largely designed incohesive that defined BMW in the mid 2000s.

2012 BMW 5-Series Interior
Rebuilt around the driver, the 2012 BMW 5-series has a simple, elegant layout for ease of use. Although it is more intuitive with each iteration, can with BMW's iDrive control unit for the stereo, navigation system (if any), and climate control system still think its fair share of critics for its interface. It is standard on all 5 Series models. Otherwise, the interior is still on the stricter side of the midsize five-passenger sedan spectrum, but it is able to seat adult-sized man in any position without much hassle. In the redesign, BMW gave an inch more rear-passenger knee room.

2012 BMW 5-Series Performance & Handling
No engine in the 2012 BMW 5-series can be regarded as a slow, even when charged with moving more than two tons of car but the 535i and 550i are the real gems of the 5-Series lineup. Coupled with either a manual gearbox or an eight-speed automatic, both cars seem relatively quick and agile for their size. There is no escaping the gravity of each car, despite the suspension electric BMWs AIDS, but that does not mean they do not handle their class. Though the feel of the electric power steering is a bit numb, still gives a responsive and rewarding experience for the driver on twisty roads.

2012 BMW 5-Series Key Safety
All 2012 BMW 5-Series come standard with dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and curtain airbags that stretch front to rear for head protection. The power tilt and telescoping steering column has a deformation section, improving the driver's ability to protect against structural intrusion into the cabin.

2012 BMW 5-Series EPA Fuel Economy
528i: 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway, all-wheel drive model was not tested
535i: 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway (automatic), 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway (manual), 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway (all-wheel drive)
5 ActiveHybrid: Not yet rated
550i: 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway (automatic), 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway (manual), 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway (all-wheel drive)
535i GT: 20 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway (all-wheel drive)
550i GT: 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway (rear wheel drive and four wheel drive)

A New Beetle was launched to great fanfare in 2011, but not call it the New Beetle. The "new" part of the outgoing name (that everyone forgot in any case) was dropped, along with the flowers and the delicate vase, ovoid styling. Volkswagen says the new Beetle is more masculine than the model it replaces, and with a more aggressive roofline and an adult, body-colored interior, the automaker could even point.

The Beetle still has the appearance, but is now longer, lower and wider than the last model. Now there are three engines to choose from: a base 2.5-liter five-cylinder with 170 horsepower, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 200 horsepower, and for 2012, a TDI diesel engine with 140 horsepower and the ability to 40 achieve mpg on the highway. A six-speed automatic is standard, but popular Volkswagen's DSG dual-clutch transmission will also be available.

The new Beetle is finally less a styling statement for young-at-heart and females more of a vehicle itself, and the impressive list of options reflects this: a navigation system, Fender Premium eight-speaker surround sound, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity , keyless entry and bi-xenon headlamps are all available. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard on the base price of $ 18,995, making Volkswagen a stylish option on the retro Goofball Mini and Fiat.

Bodystyle: coupe

Engines: 2.5-liter inline-5, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, 2.0-liter diesel inline-4

Transmissions: six-speed automatic, six-speed dual-clutch automatic

Almost everything: the New Beetle was only in 2011. Yet there is already a limited-edition model, the Turbo Black, which offers smooth black pearl paint, carbon fiber-look interior, turbo graphics and tough 10-spoke wheels. There will only be produced 600 examples, so if you want one, act quickly.

For anyone who has been for the past 15 years (is it really that long?), The Beetle is instantly recognizable from her old model. The Beetle is still fun, but far less - its graceful shape reminiscent of the original Beetle was more than the last, and with a sticker Heritage package and retro-style one-piece wheels on the non-turbo model, the Beetle is bring back many memories.

The dashboard is the same color paint on the outside, which not only adds visual interest, but also avoid looking cheap. The rest of the interior is solid Volkswagen quality: a mixture of soft-touch plastic that feel screwed tightly together, and a classic design element, the "Beetle bin," is integrated into the top of the passenger-side dashboard. For the first time, the Beetle will get a screen with an integrated navigation system available, and has an eight-speaker audio system standard.

Based on the same underpinnings as the Volkswagen Golf, the Beetle of the suspension stability promised by potholes. The non-turbo five-cylinder is adequate, but the turbo engine is shared by the GTI and the Beetle pushes along nicely. Volkswagen golf diesel engines should be good for the Beetle as well as they launch later this year.

The Beetle uses a laser-welded very strong body to wrap its inhabitants, and is equipped with side airbags standard for all passengers. Stability control and front airbags are also on every model.

22 mpg city/29 mpg highway, five-cylinder

22 mpg city/30 mpg highway, four-cylinder turbo

29 mpg city/40 mpg highway, TDI diese

2012 Volkswagen Beetle Prices 

Mazda's popular Mazda2 hatchback will be the second year of availability here in the U.S. after three years of successful sales in Europe, Australia and Japan. So far, the Mazda2 has proved itself a worthy player in the small car segment and the world looks at the popularity here in North America to continue its impressive usability, comfort, and fun, quirky styling.

Powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Mazda2 produces only a modest 100 horsepower, one of the lowest in every new car. That said, the relatively low weight makes the best hatchback, and offers good handling car with some pep and sportiness, especially with the manual transmission. The four-speed automatic transmission could use refining, and other gear.

America's smallest Mazda shares its chassis with the Ford Fiesta, but that's about all they have in common. Handling, powertrain selection and interior / exterior characters are unique for each. Inside the cabin feels spacious and sports outlines many forms for a modern and vibrant passenger compartment. There are numerous storage compartments and cup holders too. Plus, the rear seats folded for cargo capacity. Under the motto "Zoom-Zoom Concentrated," the Mazda2 looks to the owners to provide spirited driving personality of its bigger brothers and sisters are known for. The EPA estimated 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway rating with a five-speed manual transmission on board should continue to make new buyers looking for a cheap, economical option to attract.

Bodystyle: Hatchback

Engine: 1.5-liter, inline-4

Transmissions: five-speed manual, four-speed automatic

Models: Sport, Touring

Reflected in the Mazda2 styling design elements seen in other models. Perhaps most notable is the smiling grille that seems to work on the mini-wagon, as it was meant for a fun, spirited get-about-town car. 15-inch wheels with wheel covers are standard, the Touring trim gets 15-inch alloy wheels. The higher trim also receives chrome exhaust tips, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, improved seats with red trim, and two speakers to the audio improvement. In short, for Mazda2 and rear overhangs give a sporty look. Even in "concentrated" form, it maintains the prominent smiling front end.

The Mazda2 is powered by a 100 horsepower 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder, the only available motor vehicle. It is not a street light racer, but it makes for his lack of speed and power with a pony and good handling unexpected sportsmanship, probably due to relatively light weight of the car. Controller reacts just like brakes. We found the manual transmission model, fun to drive. The automatic will get the city in an efficient manner, but lacks the promised "concentrated Zoom Zoom."

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Mazda2 are top "good" rating in frontal crash tests, and "Acceptable" in side-impact tests. Standard on the Mazda2 are driver and passenger front and side airbags, side airbags as well as curtains and side impact door beams. There is also a crushable pedal assembly, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control with traction control.

Driver and passenger front and side airbags are standard, as are curtain side airbags and side impact door beams. There is also a crushable pedal assembly, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control with traction control.

2012 Mazda Mazda2 EPA Fuel Economy

Manual transmission: 30 mpg city/35 mpg highway

Automatic transmission: 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway

The CR-Z is Honda's attempt to channel its legendary CRX, albeit with a contemporary twist on eco-friendliness. Hence, its Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system, which pairs a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine to a small electric motor for a total of 122 horsepower.

Bodystyle: Coupe, Hatchback

Engine: 1.5-liter inline-4 and 14-hp electric motor

Transmissions: six-speed manual, continuously variable transmission (CVT)

Models: CR-Z, CR-Z EX

The CR-Z is an all-new model built upon updated platforms and systems already utilized across Honda's lineup. Built upon the global small car platform that underpins the Fit and Insight, the CR-Z utilizes a modified version of the Fit's CVT and 1.5-liter engine, in conjunction with the sixth-generation version of Honda's IMA electric motor/battery system. The six-speed manual comes from the European-spec Civic.

The rakish slopes and high tail are there for maximum efficiency, but they're also reminiscent of the original CRX, contributing to the CR-Z's eager bulldog stance. It cuts a handsome shape that promises more sportiness than the drivetrain delivers. However, attention seekers can have their dealers install eye-grabbing accessories from famed Honda aftermarket tuner Mugen.

The CR-Z is strictly a two-seater, with a parcel shelf instead of rear seats to alleviate the lack of storage space. The dashboard is pure Honda futurism, copied from the Civic, with an instrument binnacle that puts all important functions up on both sides of the steering wheel. EX models add Bluetooth, leather, and premium audio, though navigation is still an option.

With its three-mode drive system, the CR-Z bills itself as the enthusiast's hybrid, but performance doesn't come easy, with a 0-60 time of 9 seconds flat. The CR-Z has 122 horsepower total from a combination of its electric motor and a 1.5-liter four-cylinder lifted from the Fit. With the hybrid system there is more torque at a lower range. The six-speed manual is the desirable transmission, even though the CVT is more fuel efficient.

The CR-Z uses Honda's special ACE structure for a stiffer body and to maximize occupant protection during collisions. Driver and passenger have dual stage, multi threshold front and front side airbags. Side curtain airbags and traction/stability control also come standard.

31 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (manual); 36 mpg city / 37 mpg highway (CVT)

Sticker Price: $20,195

Sticker Price: $21,755

In 2011, Fiat returned to North America after a 28-year break, but as the old saying goes "the more things change the more they stay the same" as is the case here. Known as the "Cinquecento" in the rest of the world, the small 2012 500 spearhead Fiat's return to North America after the Italian company acquired the Chrysler Group. Because gas prices are still unstable, the 500 are the next big (or small), like the manual transmission model hovers just under 40 mpg on the highway.

For now the only engine offered is a compact 1.4-liter engine that produces 101 horsepower and is mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. Although it does not sound like much, the 500 weighs 218 pounds less than his arch rival the Mini Cooper, as well as cans of 20 less horsepower. While the 500 shows a tremendous amount of promise of the unknown reliability could dislodge perspective buyers. The 500 is not the most spacious car in the market, but it does have a unique look to turn heads.

New for the 2012 model year is an optional retractable soft top. Although not a true convertible, the soft top model gives the feeling of open-air motoring, but with the advantage of a fully enclosed top when not in use, along with a stiffer body structure to a more comfortable ride.

Bodystyles: Hatchback, convertible

Engine: 1.4-liter inline-4

Transmissions: five-speed manual, six-speed automatic

Models: Pop, Sport, Lounge

With the 500 hatchback, Fiat returns to North America for the first time since 1984.

The 2012 version of the popular Fiat 500 has the same exterior styling that signs of a common vehicle on the road in Europe after World War II. The signature 'whiskers and logo' face is shifted to 2012, together with the oval headlights. The roof retains the original diagonal line, and can be seen from the side more than head-on or rear. The Sport model rides on 16 -inch alloy wheels and firmer suspension receives, and a spoiler. The Lounge gets 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents, and a fixed glass roof.

From the moment you step into the 500 it is clear that the Mini was in Fiat's cross hairs during production. Although not as many customizable features are available on the 500 compared to its British rival to the 500 can still hold its own. The control layout is simpler than the Cooper. The available "Blue & Me" voice-activated iPod controls are weak, but there is a plug-in. There are more hard surfaces in the 500 than other cars its size, but the space is pretty good. Besides the Smart Fortwo, the 500 is the smallest car available in the U.S., but surprisingly enough legroom for tall drivers the most satisfaction.

The latest 500 gets its motivation from a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that is responsible for 101 hp. While that may not sound like much of the 500 weighs only 2.363 lbs, so not much is needed to power it. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Pop and Sport models, the six-speed automatic is optional on models and standard on the Lounge. The manual gearbox provides great fuel for a small car, but the automatic transmission fuel economy is far worse than the other competitor.

Standard safety features on the 2012 500 including anti-lock brakes, front and rear airbags, brake assist, and child seat anchors. Other safety features include stability and traction control, electronic brake force distribution and a headrest Whiplash Protection System.

Manual-30 mpg city / 38 mpg highway

Automatic 27-mpg city / 34 mpg highway