Entries from August 2010 ↓

MPG-o-Matic 2010 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV Review Summary: 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.

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SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.—You know that old saying about not judging a book by its cover? Well, it kind of applies to the all-new 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.

The exterior sheet metal gets a complete overhaul, and gone is the almost whimsical wide-mouthed grille in favor of a much more sedate and conservative facade. The lines are long, harsh and lean, and the new Jetta looks more like a BMW than its Audi brethren.
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MPG-o-Matic 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring Review Summary: 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.

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We’re kicking around a new motto here at MPGomatic.com, “Burn Rubber, Not Gasoline” … and nothing exemplified it better this week than ACP Racing’s performance in this year’s X Games Rally Car Racing and Super Rally events. Drivers Andrew Comrie-Picard (ACP) and Samuel Hubinette each grabbed a Bronze medal in their Mitsubishi Evolution rally cars, while running on an Ethanol blend.

Double X-Games Thrill: Andrew Comrie-Picard in a 2006 EVO IX followed over the 70-foot jump by ACP Racing teammate Samuel Hubinette in a 2008 EVO X. (Photo credit: Matt Galantoumini)