Rolls-Royce "baby" Ghost is anything but that same luxurious treatments are much larger and more established older brother Phantom. The Ghost retains all the extravagance you would expect from a car with the double-R badge, but in a more city-friendly format.

This shrunken size, Rolls-Royce Ghost sees it as an everyday car, a luxury sedan that can be driven to the office and shopping every day. Note: it is driven, not driven in, as most owners would expect Phantom. And despite being smaller, the Spirit still has all the modern amenities of a custom luxury sedan. The seemingly endless array of cabin amenities include adjustable rear seats with individual DVD screens, automatic closing doors, a door mounted umbrella holder, and any surface dressed in real wood, leather, aluminum and chrome.

Under the hood of the Ghost is a completely new 6.6-liter twin-turbo V-12 engine with 536 horsepower as the Rolls-Royce owner would expect nothing less. Coupled with a silky smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, it is as smooth as the owners would expect, including those new to the brand. Rolls-Royce Ghost believes that many customers will be new to the brand, and hopes to double its U.S. sales.

Body Style: Sedan

Engine: 6.6-liter turbocharged V-12

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

Model: Ghost

The Ghost was a completely new car in 2009, and at Rolls-Royce, progress has not come quickly. The Ghost is a boon for the Rolls-Royce brand, selling well in Asia, the Middle East and America.

Anaesthetics, yet elegant, muscular, the Ghost takes its styling of the Phantom, but shrinks them to a more manageable scale. The upright front remains largely intact, adding an impressive appearance. The rear "coach doors" are reverse-hinged and two-tone paint is available as part of a range of options. The Spirit of Ecstasy hood legendary ornament can rise at the touch of a button, for maximum attention.

Inside, it is luxury all the way, with an outstretched hand polished wood on the dash and double-stitched leather everywhere else. All switchgear the Ghost is unique to the model, and while some controls are clearly less extravagant than in the Phantom (astute drivers will notice that the navigation system is shared with that of the BMW 7-series), all pass Rolls-Royce demanding application .

On the road, the Ghost does not feel very small. It is still large and stately - surging forward on a seemingly endless wave of torque from the V-12 engine. Shifts are seamless and silky, and the Ghost right angles to its size, thanks to the active shock absorbers. Those wealthy few expect the Ghost to maneuver for a Rolls-Royce will not be disappointed. But if they come out with the agility of a 7-series sedan expect they will not find it here.

Traction and stability control are standard equipment, like the front and side airbags for front passengers. Front and rear occupant side curtain airbags are also standard.

13 mpg city/20 mpg highway

Hyundai received numerous complaints about a lack of safety and infotainment system in their vehicle. So as expected, it was Hyundai's focus while designing the 2012 Hyundai Sonata. Hyundai gave fans what they wanted by making standard on all Sonatas Blue Link, an OnStar-like technology that provides a safety, service, and infotainment system features. Blue Link provides up-to-the-minute traffic information, links to emergency services along the way, and helps your Sonata if you can not find. Based on the Sonata 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is calibrated again this year, making it more economical. It now receives 24/35 mpg city / highway, placing the saloon at the top of the middle class sedan segment for fuel. The 2.0T Sonata also gets a boost mpg, 34 mpg highway, compared with 33 for the 2011 model. The Sonata has a high strength steel body and six airbags. Only in his second year on the market, the Sonata has become one of the top sellers in the midsize sedan segment with the base, turbo, and hybrid models.

Body Style: Sedan

Engines: 2.0L I-4 2.4L I-4 2.4L I-4 + electric

Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

Models: GLS, SE, Limited, 2.0T, Hybrid

The 2012 Sonata has some new features. Blue Link is added to all Sonata models. The three-part panoramic sunroof is now standard on the Sonata Limited. Other important additions include a new seven-inch touch screen navigation system with HD radio technology, and a rear backup camera is now available on the SE with the roof and navigation package. Fuel consumption is improved for the regular Turbo model and Sonata.

The 2012 Sonata is long and low, with Hyundai's "Fluid Sculpture" design. The entire length of this vehicle is a Hyundai signature chrome accents on the back of the rear side window on the top of the headlights. The front is overtaken by the big chrome grille. Hyundai offers a 16 -, 17 - and 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The Sonata has a classic décor, and a very large one at that. It has a cargo volume of 16.4 cubic feet, and an interior volume of 120.2 cubic feet. The EPA classifies the Sonata as a large vehicle, such as the slightly larger Honda Accord. A new seven-inch touch screen navigation system is available this year.

The Sonata has a best-in-class weight-power ratio, resulting in good performance. It is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than the previous generation model, but it is lighter at £ 3,199 for a basic model. Sonata has no less than 198 hp. Enthusiasts would choose the 274-horsepower turbocharged model considered.

The 2012 Sonata has a high strength steel body and six airbags: two before, front-mounted side-impact and front and rear curtain. The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking system to the electronic brake force distribution and brake assist covers.

GDI 2.4 M / T: 24 mpg city / 35 mpg highway

2.4 GDI A / T: 24 mpg city / 35 mpg highway

2.0T A / T: 22 mpg city / 34 mpg highway

Hyundai developed its all-new Hyundai Genesis sedan to compete against Lexus and they did so by borrowing directly from the playbook Japanese luxury brand's offering value, quality, performance and luxury for a lower price than the established luxury brands. And for 2012, Hyundai has the Genesis was better with the addition of a performance-themed R-Spec model and direct-injected 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan comes with a choice of a 3.8-liter, 333-horspeower V-6 and two V-8s: the first is 4.6-liters and makes 385-hp and the second is the all-new 5.0-liter producing 429-horsepower one. Both the 3.8 and 5.0 liter engines with direct injection offer. The 4.6-liter V-8 is port injected, and carries over from last year. All engines are supported by a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The Genesis V-6 engine offers a competitive 29 mpg on the highway. The Genesis sedan rides on a 115.6-inch wheelbase and is 196.3 inches in length. It's about the same size as the Toyota Avalon, but unlike Toyota's flagship, the Genesis is rear-wheel drive. It features a spacious, well appointed interior and comes with an impressive list of standard features for thousands less than competing models.

Body styles: Sedan

Engines: 3.8 V-6, 4.6L V-8, 5.0L V-8

Transmissions: 8-speed automatic

Models: 3.8, 4.6, 5.0 R-Spec

The 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan gets a new trim level to the top of the range: the new 5.0 R-Spec, bigger and more powerful 5.0-liter V-8 engine available. . The 4.6-liter V-8 is the mid-range option for the 2012 Genesis, while a new eight-speed automatic transmission replaces last year's six-speed automatic transmission for better acceleration and fuel efficiency. The 3.8-liter V-6 gets direct injection for more power and greater fuel efficiency. Headlamps have been redesigned and now LED accents. A Lane Departure Warning system is now optional. The taillights and exhaust tips are also new. Power-folding mirrors have been added and now with puddle lights.

From the Genesis sedan syle is modest, yet attractive, and has undergone minor updates for the 2012 model year. It sports a new, more aggressive grille and front bumper. The headlights and taillights were freshened with LED accent light and dark chrome inserts added to the headlights. The rocker panels are also updated, and the exhaust tips and rear bumpers have also been reviewed for a leaner look. A new Twilight Blue Pearl paint replaces last year's Sapphire Blue Pearl. New 17-inch wheels are available on the 3.8-liter and 5.0 R-Spec has a unique 19-inch wheels.

Leather seats are standard on the 2012 Hyundai Genesis, and feature eight-way power adjustable on the side of the driver and four-way adjustment on the passenger side. Both front seats are heated. For 2012, new interior wood grain colors Black, Beige and Saddle leather interiors have been added. The Genesis sedan has a spacious and comfortable interior and large trunk.

Motor Trend tests the Genesis with the 4.6-liter V-8 resulted in a 0-60 mph dash in 5.7 seconds and the quarter-mile pass in 14.1 seconds at 102.2 mph. It managed to stop from 60 mph to 113 meters. Control is smooth and precise, but the highway ride quality is usually stiff. The new 2012 5.0 R-Spec model posted faster times: 0-60 in 4.8 seconds and the quarter-mile in 13.3 seconds at 107.1 mph. Handling for the 5.0 R-Spec is made, but feels more like than the sports-luxury sedan-like.

Standard safety on the 2012 Genesis sedan includes ventilated discs and solid rears, four channel, four sensor ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), traction control and tire pressure monitoring. Front airbags, dual front side-impact airbags, rear side airbags, and front and rear curtains are also standard. Electronic active head restraints help prevent whiplash. New for 2012 is a lane departure warning system (LDWS) available on the Technology suite 3.8, 4.6 and 5.0 R Spec models. It also has eight sensors on the front and rear bumpers, combined with a rear backup camera to help with parking.

3.8: 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway

4.6L: 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway

5.0L: 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway

The 2012 Equus is Hyundai for the second year in the premium luxury segment. When the Korean automaker's first Equus debuted last year, more than a few eyebrows. The public and some of the more wealthy German and Japanese car manufacturers in the segment were used to seeing from Hyundai to produce good fuel-efficient cars more than the status quo are offered at a given price. But a luxury car of the caliber of the Equus "was unexpected.

In his second year, the Equus continues this theme, and gives a Hyundai luxury sedan with more goodies than the usual $ 60,000-plus price tag of the vehicle against which it competes. A new 5.0-liter V-8 engine offers 44 hp more Equus, bringing the total to a leading 429 horsepower. The new engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that allows for better acceleration, and the most impressive performance with an upgrade for the Equus still has the previous model fuel.

The top-of-the-line Hyundai is available in two models, the Signature and Ultimate. The Equus takes on the usual standard bearers with excellent interior materials and fit and finish to impress. The cab is roomy and quiet as any. Japanese and European cars are similarly equipped tens of thousands of dollars more.

Body Style: Sedan

Engine: 5.0-liter V-8

Transmissions: 8-speed automatic

Models: Signature Equus, Equus Ultimate

In just his second year available, the Equus has a new engine, Hyundai's most powerful ever. While the previous 4.6-liter V-8 produced a competitive 385 horsepower, the one knock on the first Equus, apart from luxury brand heritage, was that the performance is still a bit shy of the European competition. Hyundai has no chance with the follow-up, delivering a blistering 5.0-liter V-8 capable of 429 horsepower.

In addition, an in-house developed eight-speed automatic transmission fitted to the new engine to improve acceleration and fuel economy comparable to the original Equus account. Further changes are satin-finish chrome exterior accents, and standard rear-window sunshades on the Ultimate model.

The Equus is a big sedan with simple, attractive but conservative styling. Absent are the more aggressive lines of Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' design featured on some of the other cars in its lineup, but who do not like the aggressive lines of the 7-Series and S-Class is hot to the Hyundai luxury offerings.

The cab interior is spacious and luxurious Equus. High-quality interior materials are used. Thick acoustic glass ensures a quiet cabin, even at higher speeds. The front seats are heated and cooled with a massage function on the driver's seat. Rear seat passengers are far from ignored, as are heated rear seats and lean. Climate and audio controls are front and rear, and premium audio is equipped with a Lexicon 17-speaker sound system. The Ultimate Equus model replaces the rear seat for two heated, cooled and massaging chairs.

Air suspension with variable settings ensure the Equus to absorb road imperfections and if the next luxury sedan, but in sport mode, the large frame squat down and adds significant dynamics on the other stately ride. Cornering is sufficient, but is not something to brag about or be embarrassed by. The main complaint of the model last year was that the Equus is not the acceleration of some of its competitors, a situation put right with the new engine and eight gears to offer.

Four-wheel discs with ABS plus Brake Assist and stability control are standard. There are nine airbags: two front, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact, roof-mounted side-curtain and a driver knee airbag. The Equus' VSM manages various safety systems at once.

EPA Fuel Economy

15 mpg city/23 mpg highway

The Elantra continues to value-minded, compact sedan in the 2012 model year. This sedan offers many features that are standard, but still keep the low price of $ 15,955. Hyundai has adapted to the current rise in gas prices by adding a system that not only makes ActiveEco smoother throttle response, increases fuel consumption by 7 percent, 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The Elantra is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. Hyundai Elantra is equipped with six airbags and a state-of-the-art braking package. The Elantra is a stylish compact sedan is a good choice for buyers who want a commuter car park. Choosing the Limited trim level and you get amazing opportunities to get a decent price, such as leather seats that are heated in the front and outer rear seats, too. Those who want a more sporty driving experience might consider looking elsewhere.

Body Style: Sedan

Engines: 1.8L I-4

Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic

Models: GLS, SE, Limited

The 2012 Elantra comes with a few tweaks. New features for 2012 include a dual-shell horn for better sound quality, steering calibration and optional roadside assistance kit. There are also three new color choices: Shimmering White, Midnight Black, Indigo and night. The GLS preferred package now includes fog lamps and a passenger side sun visor extension.

Like the Sonata and the all new Velo Star, the Elantra Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' design features, a variety of hard surfaces the illusion of constant motion to give the automaker said. The Elantra is quite similar to the Sonata, both with the same lines and a tight roof. It is also equipped with Hyundai's signature hexagonal grille and swept-back headlights. Fifteen-, 16 - or 17-inch wheels are available as well as fog lights.

The interior of the Elantra is basic but well designed. A telescopic steering wheel available is offered for 2012. Also heated seats remain available in the front and rear seats - a feature not found on many cars at every price. The interior also offers plenty of storage compartments.

The 2012 Elantra is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. This sedan weighs 2661 pounds, making the Elantra a best-in-class power to weight ratio of 18.0. Although the Elantra is still a fast car, the more exciting with the standard six-speed gearbox.

The Elantra comes standard with six airbags: two before, front-mounted side-impact and front and rear curtain. It is also equipped with electronic brake force distribution that automatically adjusts the braking force on the front and rear based on vehicle loading conditions. The Elantra has front and rear crumple zones, as well as internal dual beams placed in the rear doors.

EPA Fuel Economy

Elantra: 29 mpg city/40 mpg highway

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)

The Legacy is Subaru's midsize sedan semi-premium, sporty and sophisticated offering than the smaller, entry-level Impreza. The current Legacy model made its debut in 2010, and little has changed since then. That's hardly a bad thing if the current model is a well-rounded, solid medium choice.

Each Legacy offers all-wheel-drive system Subaru, Subaru defining characteristic. But the automaker is also known for its flat-style motors, which have a lower center of gravity for better handling to offer. The Legacy lineup is powered by three engines and three transmission options, depending on your sports or economy driving intentions.

The base engine is a 2.5-liter flat-4, and with Subaru's CVT can be up to 31 mpg highway. For the spirited driver, the 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-4 makes gobs of power, but is only equipped with a manual gearbox. Subaru's 3.6-liter flat-6 engine will cost more money and makes less power than the turbo engine, but both the turbo and six-cylinder, 25 mpg highway rate.

Inside, passengers will enjoy a carefully planned interior, plenty of head and knee room, and a big trunk. The center console is tasteful modern, Subaru offers a voice-activated navigation, a rear view camera and a powerful Harman Kardon sound system.

While the Legacy has standard all-wheel drive, Subaru has a different sized sedan that does not cause or falls behind in the segment.

Body Style: Sedan

Engines: 2.5-liter flat-4, 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-4, 3.6-liter flat-6

Transmissions: six-speed manual, five-speed automatic, continuously variable transmission

Models: 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.5GT Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium, 3.6R Limited

Legacy is expected to be a few new colors, but also enhanced audio and interior to receive.

The Legacy was designed in 2010. With large wheel arches, prominent chrome grille, headlights and high-arched, it's not the prettiest midsizer, but it can be sporty, unique, or refined, depending on your taste.

The Legacy is the dimensions and clever interior packaging provide adequate usable space, and the cabin materials and overall build quality is very good.

Enthusiasts will opt for the 2.5GT Limited, with its 265 hp turbocharged flat-four, six-speed gearbox, sports suspension and revised. The transmission is awkward and the brakes are not very confident, but it's so comfortable on windy mountain road as it is in the fast lane. The rest of the lineup lacks performance, but has control over all wheel drive Subaru, that's favorite in the rain and snow climates.

Safety

The Legacy has four-wheel electronic anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, electronic stability control, two front airbags, seat mounted airbags, curtain first and second row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, traction control, and the all-wheel drive. The Legacy was an IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2010 and 2011, and expected again for 2012.

2.5 GT: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway

2.5i: 19-23 mpg highway mpg city/27-31

3.6R: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway

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 R8 is Audi's halo car: A low-slung, two-seat supercar, partly derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo (Lamborghini is owned by parent company Audi's company). Big V-8 of the R8 and the V-10 engine and quattro all-wheel drive to offer blistering performance on the job, but still pliable enough to cruise Rodeo Drive in style, all at a price more accessible than the average supercar.

Keep fresh the R8, Audi V-10 engine added in the second model year of the car, in his third year the convertible Spyder model was added, and new for the 2012 model year, Audi R8 takes its powerful engine and, well, makes the even more powerful. The 5.2-liter V-10 adds 35 horsepower, and now totals a mighty 560 horsepower. Slim exotic styling, an ultra-premium interior, the performance at the ready, the R8 is a must for anyone considering looking at this top-tier segment.

The 2012 Audi R8 is a driver's car through and through. Luggage space is minimal, but a storage package adds nets behind the seats for luggage shelf unusable. Though capable, the R8 is tuned more like a Grand Tourer than a street-legal race car. Fuel consumption remains on par with its racier brethren, but that's not really the point, right?

Body Styles: coupe, convertible

Engines: 4.2-liter V-8, 5.2-liter V-10

Transmissions: six-speed single-clutch automatic, manual gearbox

Models: R8, R8 5.2, 5.2 R8 Spyder

Among the many changes in the 2012 Audi R8 GT is more power to the already beastly 5.2-liter V-10 engine. It now produces 560 horsepower, compared to the previous 525 hp. The GT will have a limited colors available for this model year. Also, this supercar features a carbon fiber stationary rear spoiler, bumpers and mirrors.

The 2012 Audi R8 is an exotic and eminently styled coupe with strong coke bottle curves and near perfect proportions. The V-10 and Spyder models receive unique wheels, grille, headlights and side scoops. Standard on the 4.2 coupe are 19-inch wheels, LED lights are an option. 5.2 The model includes many of the optional 4.2 model features as standard, such as carbon-ceramic brakes.

The German automaker has built a reputation for producing top-notch interiors, and the 2012 Audi R8 is a good example. Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) uses a dial on the dashboard, but compared to newer systems, this is not the most convenient and user-friendly infotainment system. Aluminum accents on the multi-function steering wheel, air vents and the console to offer a premium to touch. Sporty leather power seats are standard, like climate control, navigation, Bluetooth, and a premium stereo. An optional convenience package adds a rearview camera, hill-hold and heated auto-dimming and power folding side mirrors.

The 2012 Audi R8 is already a potent road and track machine with its 4.2-liter V-8 developing 420 hp, but the real power-mad will choose the new 560 hp 5.2-liter V-10. Both engines are coupled to either a six-speed single-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, making handling and excellent cornering. Despite its impressive performance, the R8 supercar is a relatively practical and has a comfortable ultra-premium interior, good visibility, and relative comfort.

Both the passenger front, side chest, side curtain airbags and knee. Anti-lock brakes, electronic traction and stability control are standard, as is Audi's Crash sensor, the door opens and shuts down the engine and fuel pump.

R8 4.2: 11-13 mpg highway mpg city/19-20

R8 GT: 12-13 mpg city/19 mpg highway

Sticker Price: $123,300

Sticker Price: $196,800

Sticker Price: $136,800