2010 Auto Reviews

We take a different approach to auto reviews here at MPGomatic.com … Our unique focus on fuel efficiency, driveability, usability, and in-cabin technology cuts to the chase with an unbiased approach. Concise auto review video segments put you behind the wheel, as they deliver the look, feel and sounds of each model. Corresponding articles provide detail on driving conditions and model specifics.

2010 Audi A3 TDI Review

The clean diesel A3 TDI joins the conventional gasoline-powered A3 in Audi’s 2010 line up, providing a marvelous fuel-efficient alternative for folks that enjoy spirited driving. Although the 2010 A3 TDI is not available in Quattro (all-wheel-drive) trim, we found the front-wheel-drive (FWD) to be sure-footed through a variety of driving conditions.

2010 Buick LaCrosse CXL AWD Review

The 2010 Buick LaCrosse seeks to shake up the four-door sedan market as it goes head-to-head with competition ranging from the Lexus ES350 and Acura TL, through the Lincoln MKZ and Chrysler 300C. Luxury, comfort, and convenience abound in a sedan that’s bound to stretch buyers’ expectations.

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon Review

The 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon was primarily designed for the European market, to do battle with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5-Series wagons. Only a limited number of CTS Wagons will be sold here in America, unless it catches on … which we hope it does. Spend a bit of time driving the CTS Sport Wagon and you might change your mind about buying a luxury SUV.

2010 Cadillac SRX Review

It’s not surprising that the 2010 Cadillac SRX is decidedly European, as Cadillac’s compact crossover rides on the same platform as the Opel Antara. The SRX currently offers a choice between two V6 engines (turbocharged or naturally aspirated) with front-wheel-drive (FWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD). While its gas mileage results are middle-of-the-road, the crisply-designed SRX delivers all the style, comfort, and tech goodies you’d expect in a modern high-end Cadillac.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro V6 Review

With an efficient 3.6-liter V6 engine, the 2010 Chevy Camaro 2LT is a rock star with a conscience, easily capable of scoring 30 MPG highway when driven with a light foot. The Camaro turned more heads and elicited more positive responses on the street then any vehicle we’ve tested in the last year, with the possible exception of the Dodge Challenger.

2010 Chevrolet Equinox Review

With segment topping highway gas mileage, the redesigned 2010 Chevy Equinox goes to battle in the crowded field of five-passenger crossovers. A car-like and quiet ride along with a roomy and smartly-designed interior makes the 2010 Equinox a worthy contender for families swapping out of conventional SUVs.

2010 Chevrolet Malibu Review

The Chevy Malibu is a classic American mid-size sedan, with roots that run back to the mid-1960s. While old school Chevy Malibu fans may argue that the ‘72 was the last truly beautiful Malibu, a highly-successful redesign in the 2008 model year breathed new life into the model. These days, Malibu battles it out in a wickedly competitive mid-size market with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and newly redesigned Hyundai Sonata leading the pack.

2010 Chrysler 300C AWD Review

If you need to transport your entourage with a high level of comfort in distinctive style and under adverse weather conditions, the 2010 Chrysler 300C AWD presents an intriguing alternative to a conventional SUV or crossover. The 300C AWD’s powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine uses Multi-Displacement technology to shut off half its cylinders to conserve fuel under light loads, for a stated fuel economy increase of up to 20 percent.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review

The Ford Fusion Hybrid sets a high mark in the growing four-door sedan hybrid segment with its capability to cruise under electric power at speeds up to 47 miles per hour (MPH). When driven under the right conditions, the Fusion Hybrid achieves remarkable fuel economy. Just as importantly, this car makes no compromises, with plenty of technology, style, and comfort.

2010 Ford Mustang V6 Review

When equipped with the standard 4.0-liter V6 engine, the 2010 Ford Mustang delivers a winning combination of style, handling, driveability, and in-cabin technology along with reasonable fuel economy. If you want a brand new factory convertible, the 2010 Mustang is the sole choice among the Detroit Three’s retro pony cars.

2010 Ford Taurus Review

The Taurus has triumphantly returned to the Ford lineup. The new model’s striking looks, comfortable ride and ample amenities are sure to turn heads and lure new owners … the Taurus has moved significantly up market. The 2010 Taurus Limited AWD is a roomy choice for folks downsizing into a sedan from less-efficient full-size SUVs.

2010 GMC Terrain Review

The 2010 GMC Terrain shares its platform with the Chevy Equinox, and like its cousin, delivers solid gas mileage results when equipped with the standard four-cylinder engine. The Terrain is a prime choice for fuel-conscious families swapping out of larger SUVs, with generous interior space, a comfortable ride, and plenty of in-cabin amenities.

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour Review

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour delivers a sleek, unique, well-mannered and comfortable alternative to conventional SUVs and more pedestrian Crossovers. An aerodynamic design and an i-VTEC V6 with Variable Cylinder Management allow light-footed drivers to crush the official highway mileage estimates. With a plenty of storage space and a comprehensive electronics package the Crosstour is a solid choice to replace a larger and less thrifty vehicle.

2010 Honda Insight Review

The 2010 Honda Insight is the least expensive, and arguably, the most sporty hybrid car currently available in the United States. The Insight delivers the goods for cost-conscious drivers with a focus on overall cost of ownership and driver engagement.

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Review

The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe goes to battle with the V6 editions of America’s legacy rear-wheel-drive (RWD) pony cars, carving the corners as it carves its niche. Eye-opening performance, solid handling, a high level of drivability, a host of in-cabin amenities, and the potential of 30 miles per gallon on the highway provide stiff competition for the traditionalists.

2010 Hyundai Tuscon Review

While the Hyundai Tuscon faces tough competition in the five-seat crossover category, it’s clearly up to the task. The Tuscon carves out a healthy chunk of the segment with good fuel economy numbers, solid handling, a roomy and well-executed cabin, and unique styling.

2010 Jeep Liberty Review

As the competition moves to soft and cushy crossover designs with limited off-road abilities, the Jeep Liberty remains a competent and conventional mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV), designed to tackle tough terrain while hauling the goods. Although the Liberty’s 3.7-liter V6 has been newly equipped with an interactive Decel Fuel Shut Off feature to improve fuel economy, this is still a relatively thirsty SUV.

2010 Mazda3 Sedan Review

The 2010 Mazda3 is a blast to drive and can be more frugal at the pump than one might be lead to believe. As one of the best handling front-wheel-drive compacts on the market today, this affordably-priced sport sedan offers a brilliant alternative to a hum-drum life. Scoff at the big grinning grille and Zoom-Zoom tag line if you must. Once you drive one, you’ll understand.

2010 Mazda6 s Grand Touring Review

The Mazda6 s Grand Touring provides a boldly-styled sporting alternative to the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, and Nissan Altima. With a willing 3.7-liter V6 engine, responsive six-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel-independent suspension, the Mazda6 s Grand Touring delivers the Zoom Zoom in a sufficiently roomy four-door sedan.

2010 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec Review

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC is one of the most fuel-efficient seven-passenger luxury SUVs on the road today. From the calm and comfort within the GL350’s well-crafted cabin, one can only wonder why so many manufacturers have been slow to embrace clean diesel as the ideal solution for premium vehicles.

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo MR Touring Review

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring is positioned as the most-refined entry in the legendary EVO lineup, for those that enjoy spirited driving without generating too much attention. Outfitted with goodies including BBS wheels, Bilstein shocks, Eibach springs, Brembo brakes, and Recaro bucket seats, the EVO MR Touring uses top-shelf parts, while forgoing the decklid wing in favor of a discreet spoiler. The Evolution MR Touring goes head-to-head with the 2011 Subaru WRX STI sedan and little else.

2010 Nissan Maxima Review

The Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV is a thoroughly modern sedan that brings a high level of driving enjoyment, a lovely cabin, and sweet array of technology. While the Maxima is once again billed at “The 4-Door Sports Car,” a quick look at Nissan’s website tells a different story. Nissan lists the Maxima at the top of the range under the Cars tab, rather than the Sports Cars tab (which is reserved for the 370Z and GT-R). Whether you consider it a true sports car or simply a sporty sedan, the Maxima takes its own road.

2010 Nissan Murano Review

Nissan bills the 2010 Nissan Murano as “the Premium Crafted Crossover” with the goal of nibbling away at the sales of more expensive luxury competitors. This roomy and comfortable five-passenger crossover is chock full of amenities and style. A curvaceous design, a smooth ride, and plenty of interior space have earned the Murano a space in many a driveway.

2010 Nissan Rogue Review

The 2010 Nissan Rogue plays in a hotly contested field, as it scores big points for style and handling among the compact crossover competition. Slotted between the luxurious Murano and the raucous Juke, the Rogue leans toward the sporty side with a distinctive design.

2010 Subaru Legacy Review

The 2010 Subaru Legacy offers a trio of legendary Boxer engine choices along with Subaru’s renown Symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD). The Legacy is an excellent alternative for folks that need the safety and security of AWD to deal with adverse weather conditions, but have no desire to drive a SUV or crossover. Legacy drivers in search of more gusto will likely opt for the 2.5-liter turbo four or 3.6-liter six.

2010 Toyota Prius IV Review

The 2010 Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient gasoline powered car for sale in America today. The third-generation Prius offers significant improvements over previous versions, and is fully capable of scoring 60 MPG combined when driven with a light foot.

2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI Review

The return of the VW Golf TDI to America marks a milestone in the clean diesel revolution, as it hearkens back to times gone by. While the original diesel-powered Rabbit, ancestor of the Golf TDI, was a revered fuel-sipper during the energy crisis decades ago, the little old diesel Rabbit wasn’t praised for its abundance of power. The thoroughly modern 2010 Golf TDI, on the other hand, is both frugal at the pump and a pleasure to drive.

2010 Volkswagen GTI Review

The 2010 Volkswagen GTI is the latest incarnation of the “Original German Hot Hatch,” and it’s a winner in every way, as the Mark VI GTI delivers thrilling performance, solid fuel economy, excellent handling, and a wonderful cabin. Choosing a GTI over the extremely thrifty Golf TDI comes down to the trade-off between fuel-efficiency and performance.

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