The Dodge Ram 1500 charts its own course in a crowded field, as it competes against the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan in the full-size pickup truck market.

Under the hood, the mid-range Dodge Ram 1500 SLT is equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine as standard equipment. The top of the line Ram 1500 Sport is fitted with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, while the basic Ram 1500 ST comes with a 3.7-liter V6 (4×2 only). The Hemi is optional in the SLT.

The SLT’s 4.7-liter V8 puts out 310 horsepower (HP) and 330 foot pounds of torque, while the Sport’s 5.7-liter Hemi puts out 390 HP and 407 foot pounds of torque. (The ST delivers 210 HP /235 lb./ft.) All Ram 1500s are equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. A manual transmission is not offered.

When fitted with the 4.7-liter V8, the official mileage estimates for the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 are 13 city / 18 highway miles per gallon (MPG).

(As one would expect, the two-wheel drive Rams score a wee bit higher, with the 1500 ST 4X2 rated at 14 city / 20 highway, and the 1500 SLT 4X2 rated at 14 city / 19 highway.)

We covered more than five hundred of miles in our Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat review unit. By driving conscientiously with a light foot, we were able to do a touch better than the official estimates on the open road, with an average of 20.1 MPG on the Interstate highway and 15.4 MPG combined with a light to no load. Overall test period temperatures ranged from the fifties through the seventies, with highway testing in the sixty degree range.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 19.8 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 20.5 MPG

The standard 4.7-liter engine provides plenty of grunt on and off road.

While the Ram beat the numbers on the highway, there’s no forgetting that this is a beefy full-size pickup. Getting the Ram off the line takes its toll on fuel-efficiency.

The 4.7-liter V8 is a Flex Fuel engine (FFV) that can use E85 ethanol, gasoline or a combination of both. We performed our tests with conventional unleaded regular gasoline. Fuel economy results while running E85 are likely to be significantly lower than with conventional gasoline.

The Ram 1500 is fitted with a 26 gallon fuel tank. A 32 gallon tank is optional.

Ride comfort sets the Ram 1500 apart from the competition.

Rather than using leaf springs, the Ram benefits from a multi-link coil suspension that delivers a smooth ride and solid handling, whether the box is empty or full.

Our Regular Cab SLT 4×4 test unit was equipped with the 6.4’ box. The Regular Cab can be fitted with an 8 foot box, as well. The Quad Cab box measures 6.4’, while the Crew Cab’s box measures 5.7’.

The Regular Cab SLT 4×4’s standard payload capacity is 1410 pounds. The standard towing capacity is 6350-6400 pounds, with a maximum towing capacity of 8850 pounds. A 3.55 axle ratio is standard issue, while a 3.92 axle ratio is optional. Four wheel disc brakes are standard.

The 24T Preferred Option package includes TRX fender flares and badging, along with the 3.92 axle, and skid plates for the front suspension and transfer case, among other goodies.

The Ram’s interior is handsomely designed, quite comfortable, and highly functional.

A center mounted display screen providing trip meters, transmission and coolant temperatures, engine hours, and average miles per gallon is standard in the SLT, Sport, and TRX. An instant fuel economy gauge is not offered. We recommend adding an aftermarket real-time MPG gauge to help achieve higher fuel efficiency.

There are two 12-volt power outlets at the base of the dash. An 115-volt power outlet is optional. The standard six-speaker audio system includes an audio input jack. One year of SIRIUS satellite radio is standard. Uconnect Bluetooth is optional. A 506-watt seven-speaker Alpine Premium sound system is available.

Audio options in the 2010 Ram are significantly upgraded, with updated Uconnect systems that include 30GB media storage, a 6.5” touch screen display, and iPod control.

There’s an abundance of in-cabin storage, with dual gloveboxes, a center seatback console, and behind the seat cubbies.

All-in-all, the Ram 1500 SLT Regular Cab 4×4 is one easy riding pickup, whether on or off the beaten path. No question about it, Dodge has upped the ante when it comes to comfort and driveability. We still hold out hope they’ll see fit to add a highly fuel-efficient clean diesel option for the 1500 in future models.

Parts Content

US/Canadian Parts Content: 53%

Country of Origin:
Engine: United States
Transmission: United States

Final Assembly Point:
Fenton, Missouri

The four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4×4 is fitted with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that can be mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler’s V6 produces 202 horsepower (HP) and 237 foot pounds of torque.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4×4 are 15 city / 19 highway miles per gallon (MPG) with both the manual and automatic transmissions. (The 2WD Sport 4×2 and Sahara 4×2 are rated slightly higher, at 15/20)

We put more than five hundred miles on the odometer of our automatic-equipped Red Rock Crystal Pearl review unit over a range of terrain and were able to squeak past the official mileage estimates with an average of 22.1 MPG on the Interstate highway and 17.9 MPG combined.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 21.2 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 23.1 MPG

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the mid-fifties through the low eighties, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the sixties. Highway tests were performed with the removable top on the vehicle.

The Wrangler’s 3.8-liter engine runs on regular unleaded fuel. The 22.5 gallon capacity gas tank provides a good amount of range.

There’s no mistaking the Wrangler for a speed demon, as it takes a leisurely trot up to highway speeds.

We had the opportunity to run our test unit through a variety of conditions, including miles upon miles of sand roads crisscrossing Wharton State Forest in the heart of the Jersey Pinelands. We found the Wrangler Unlimited to be most at home when off the beaten path. While the highway ride is smooth, it can be a bit bouncy in-town.

Although the Wrangler includes an average fuel economy display as standard equipment, it lacks a real-time fuel economy gauge. We used an aftermarket AutoMeter EcoMeter throughout testing in order to achieve higher fuel efficiency through light-footed driving.

The Wrangler Unlimited rides on a 116-inch wheelbase that’s stretched 20.6-inches over the standard Wrangler. This allows for a generous amount of passenger room and cargo capacity. 46.4 cubic feet of cargo space is available when the 60/40 rear seats are up and a whopping 83 cubic feet of space is available when the rear seats are down. Underfloor storage provides additional space to store items away from prying eyes.

Rear seating is designed to accommodate three, with plenty of leg and headroom.

A subwoofer-equipped 368-watt 7-speaker Infinity sound system is standard in the Wrangler Unlimited Sahara. Our test unit was fitted with the optional Uconnect Navigation and audio system, which includes a 30 gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) for music storage.

While there are both USB and audio input jacks, USB performance is limited. The system does not work directly with iPod menus and cannot play music downloaded from the iTunes Store unless converted to MP3 format (or run through the audio input jack). Music files can be downloaded to the HDD from USB devices or ripped from audio CDs.

The look may be retro, but the modern conveniences are covered. True to Jeep tradition, the doors are removable, even though they include power windows and locks. There are two power outlets at the base of the dash. While our test unit was not equipped with it, a Bluetooth option is available. Although we’ve gotten a bit lost in the Pinelands in previous outings, off-roading with a satellite navigation system on-board is like having a little bird on your shoulder.

Make no mistake about it … this is a serious four-wheeler, not a fashion accessory. Four wheel disc brakes, a Dana 44 heavy duty rear axle, skid plates (for the transfer case and fuel tank), Command-Trac Shift-on-the-fly 4WD, and Hill Assist are standard, along with two front two hooks and one rear tow hook. The Wrangler Unlimited rides on 18 x 7.5 inch machined cast aluminum wheels shod with P225/70R18 On-/Off-Road Tires. A full size spare is standard issue.

The Wrangler Unlimited comes standard with Jeep’s Sunrider soft top. We highly recommend adding a hard top. The optional three-piece modular Freedom hard top includes a rear window wiper/defroster and is reasonably priced. One person can easily remove or install the front sections of the Freedom top.

All-in-all, the Jeep Wranger Sahara Unlimited 4×4 continues to fill a unique niche by delivering dependable off-road performance, in-cabin technology, iconic design, and open air motoring, along with plenty of cargo capacity and passenger space. If you want to get there with four doors and an open roof, the Wrangler Unlimited is the only game in or out of town.

Curb Weight: 4,269 pounds – manual, 4,294 – automatic.
Final Assembly Point: Toledo, Ohio
Country of Origin: Engine – United States, Transmission – United States
U.S/Canadian Parts Content: 57%

The five-door 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring is fitted with a 2.0-liter DOHC engine that can be mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The Elantra’s inline four produces 138 horsepower (HP) and 136 foot pounds of torque.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring are 23 city / 31 highway miles per gallon (MPG) with the manual transmission and 23 city / 30 highway with the automatic.

We put roughly three hundred miles on the odometer of our five-speed manual Carbon Gray review unit over a long weekend and easily dispensed the official mileage estimates with an average of 35.4 MPG on the Interstate highway and 29.8 MPG combined.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 34.5 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 36.3 MPG

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the fifties through the seventies, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the high sixties.

The Elantra Touring’s 14.0 gallon gas tank provides for a reasonable amount of highway range. The 2.0-liter engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel.

While the little four-banger’s numbers might not look impressive on paper, it delivers off-the-line when fitted with the five-speed manual. Performance is quite adequate in an unladen vehicle. Fill the car with friends, family, and cargo, however and the 2.0-liter will have its work cut out for it.

Those who opt for the manual transmission will not be disappointed. The Elantra Touring’s standard B&M shifter makes it a pleasure to take a quick run through the gears.

Through the twisties, the Hyundai five-door’s handling isn’t as tight as the segment-leading Mazda3 … but when it comes to hauling gear the Elantra Touring absolutely shines.

There’s a remarkable amount of cargo capacity, with 24.3 cubic feet of space available when the 60/40 rear seats are up and 65.3 cubic feet when the rear seats are down. Cubbies underneath the rear floor provide concealed space for even more stuff.

Rear seating is comfortable for four, with a center fold-down armrest and plenty of headroom.

Driver’s amenities are quite good, given the Elantra Touring’s price point, with the beefy leather-wrapped steering wheel providing integrated controls. Manual lumbar support is standard.

Our test unit was fitted with the Premium Sport package, which includes a power sunroof, heated front seats, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system is housed above the windshield.

There are two power outlets at the base of the dash, and another in the cargo area.

The standard six-speaker audio system provides both auxiliary and USB input jacks. Although the standard audio system does a great job of iPod integration, volume is limited. iPod support includes access to playlists, artists and albums.

The steering wheel controls allow you to switch between songs, auxiliary input devices, CDs, radio and satellite radio without lifting your hands from the wheel, so your eyes can stay on the road.

While the trip computer provides an average mile per gallon fuel economy display (along with distance to empty), the Elantra Touring lacks a real-time fuel-efficiency gauge. We always recommend the use of a real-time fuel economy display as a means to encourage light-footed driving in the effort to achieve higher gas mileage.

All-in-all, the Hyundai Elantra Touring delivers excellent value with a combination of technology, fuel efficiency, driveability, and cargo capacity. Whether viewed as a competitor to the Toyota Matrix and Mazda3 or as an alternative to a small SUV, the Elantra Touring provides plenty of bang for the buck.

The 2010 Mustang V6 is fitted with a 4.0-liter SOHC engine that can be mated to either a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Mustang’s V6 produces 210 horsepower (HP) and 240 foot pounds of torque. Although the Mustang V6 gives up a bunch of HP to both the Camaro and Challenger V6s, Ford’s pony car is significantly lighter than the competition.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the 2010 Ford Mustang V6 are 18 city / 26 highway miles per gallon (MPG) with the manual transmission and 16 city / 24 highway with the automatic.

When driven conscientiously, the V6 Mustang can easily exceed its fuel economy ratings. We put over six hundred and fifty hundred miles on the odometer of our automatic-equipped Sterling Gray review unit and slipped past the official mileage estimates with an average of 27.9 MPG on the Interstate highway and 21.3 MPG combined.

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the fifties through the seventies, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the sixty degree range.

The 2010 Mustang V6 rolls in at approximately 4,300 3,400 pounds with the manual transmission (tack on another fifty pounds or so for the automatic). The Camaro is more than 400 300 pounds heavier, while the Challenger weighs in at the heaviest of the bunch at over 3800 pounds. While the Mustang’s 4.0-liter V6 delivers adequate punch on the roll, off the line performance falls behind the Camaro’s 300 HP direct-injected V6.

In the battle between Chevy, Dodge, and Ford, the Mustang V6’s weight advantage allows its less powerful engine to deliver middle-of-the-pack acceleration.

Fuel economy displays include both average mile per gallon and real-time fuel-efficiency. We always recommend light-footed driving and the use of a real-time fuel economy display as a means to improve gas mileage.

The Mustang’s 16.0 gallon gas tank provides a good amount of highway range. The 4.0-liter engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel. The Easy Fuel capless fuel-filler system ensures that you’ll never leave a gas cap behind at the service station.

Top up or down, this one’s a joy to drive.

Out in the twisties, the V6 Mustang out-handles the competition. Never mind that it’s still sporting a coil spring 3-link solid-axle rear suspension setup. A 33.4 foot curb-to-curb turning circle bests the competition. Four-wheel anti-lock power disc brakes are standard.

Our V6 Convertible Premium review unit was equipped with the V6 Pony Package, fog lights, fender badges, pony tape stripe, rear decklid spoiler, and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels. Sequential LED tail lamps are standard.

The 2010 Mustang’s interior sets a high mark, with excellent fit and finish. Our Mustang featured leather-trimmed upholstery, with the Comfort package adding heated driver and passenger seats and six-way power adjustment. Power lumbar support hits the spot.

This little pony delivers the tunes, with an eight-speaker, 500-watt Shaker Audio System, voice-activated Microsoft SYNC, SIRUS satellite radio, and steering wheel controls. SYNC’s USB iPod support and Bluetooth cellphone support earn high marks. There are two power outlets, one on the dash and one in the console. A standard audio input jack is also provided.

Convertible top operation was smooth and easy, although not exceptionally speedy. The Mustang was relatively quiet with the convertible top up. SYNC voice-operation was challenged with the top down, but functional. Although rearward visible isn’t too bad for a convertible (with the top up), a rear view camera is available.

The 2010 Mustang has two gotchas.

Rear seating is rather tight, especially with the top up. Needless to say, it’s much easier to climb into the back seats with the convertible top down.

The Mustang’s trunk is relatively small. The Mustang coupe’s cargo area is rated at 13.4 cubic feet (larger than the Camaro, but significantly smaller than the Challenger), while the Mustang convertible’s cargo area is rated at just 9.6 cubic feet. While the rear seat folds down in the coupe (allowing for more flexible cargo arrangement), the rear seat does not fold down in the convertible.

All-in-all, the 2010 Ford Mustang V6 represents a significant step up over previous years. While a bit down on power, the Mustang V6’s solid handling, sweet interior, rocking sound system, and convertible model earn it a slot at the top of the pack. Rest assured, the ante will be upped as Ford switches over to the EcoBoost engines in upcoming models, with higher fuel economy and improved performance.

This wonderful beast delivers a unique combination of fuel efficiency, range, driveability, luxury, and towing capacity, along with some of the best in-cabin technology on the market today.

If you’ve spent much time on MPGomatic.com, watched a bunch of my review videos on YouTube, or follow me on Twitter, you might already know that I dig clean diesel technology and the potential it holds for America.

So when I was invited to take the clean diesel Q7 TDI on a road trip to see how many miles I could squeak out of the 26.4 gallon fuel tank, I jumped at the chance.

While the 2009 Q7 TDI is officially rated at 17 city / 25 highway miles per gallon (MPG), I knew it was capable of significantly better mileage when driven conscientiously.

The first leg of the effort on the Interstate proved that out, as I scored 28.3 MPG with the cruise control on (set at our standard 68 MPH) and 30.1 MPG (at speeds between 60 and 72 MPH) with the cruise control off. With outside temperatures in the 80s, the air conditioning ran for the entire day. By the time the Q7 TDI rolled back into the driveway late that afternoon, I had travelled just under 200 miles on just over seven gallons of fuel.

These are impressive numbers for a seven-passenger vehicle, all the more so when you consider the amount of power and towing capacity. With the Q7 TDI, fuel economy is just the start.

When you talk about diesel engines, it’s not the horsepower (HP) that makes the difference … it’s the torque. While the common-rail injected 3.0 liter V6 is rated at 225 HP, it puts out a stunning 406 foot pounds of torque. All that torque allows for a very generous towing capacity of 6,600 pounds. Not to mention a very rewarding rush of acceleration when you step on the pedal …

The second leg of our test was largely spent on local roads, both in-town and out in the country. Once again, the Q7 TDI’s mileage results were exemplary for its size and weight, with 45 MPH back road cruising delivering mileage well into the thirties.

Our goal for the tank was 600 miles of combined driving. If we had planned out a route that consisted exclusively of backroads and Interstate driving, we could have exceeded that distance handily.

As it turned out, we fell a just a bit short of our goal. Blame it on the route and the rush that the Q7 TDI delivers when you mash the pedal. That blast of locomotive-like power is remarkably smooth and all too addictive.

Despite what the naysayers might think, the availability of diesel fuel was not a problem whatsoever around these parts, whatsoever.

When it came time to finally fill up, we rolled past a raft of stations, looking for the least expensive price per gallon. 6 of 7 stations had diesel fuel, although there was a wide variation in pricing. For the most part, the cost of diesel fuel hovered around the cost of unleaded regular gasoline.

After traveling 588.4 miles, we pulled into a Quik Check with five miles worth of fuel left in our tank.

If we had the chance for a do-over with a tightly planned route, 750 miles on one tank would be well within reason.

The 2010 Prius features an upgraded Hybrid Synergy Drive system with a DOHC 1.8 liter 16-valve VVT-i four cylinder engine and permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor mated to an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT). The gasoline engine produces 98 horsepower (HP) and 105 foot pounds of torque, while the electric motor adds 80 HP and 153 foot pounds of torque. The engine in the 2010 Prius is significantly larger than the 1.5 liter engine used in earlier models.

The official gas mileage estimates for the 2010 Toyota Prius are 51 city/48 highway miles per gallon (MPG), a slight improvement over earlier models, despite the increase in displacement.

We travelled more than 750 hundred miles on our Blue Ribbon Metallic 2010 Prius and dismissed the official fuel economy estimates, landing an average of 59.2 MPG on the highway, and 55.1 MPG combined. With those numbers, the 11.9 gallon gas tank provides a generous cruising range.

Interstate Mileage Testing:

• Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, ECO mode, windows up (1-inch gap): 56.5 MPG
• Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, ECO mode, windows up (1-inch gap): 61.9 MPG

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the seventies to eighties, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the seventy degree range.

Even with the added 3/10ths of a liter, the 2010 Prius covers the 0-60 sprint in the same ballpark as its predecessor.

The ride and handling, however, have improved significantly over earlier models.

The 2010 Prius comes configured with one of four trim levels for consumers (there’s a base model that’s intended specifically for fleets).

The interior of the 2010 Prius is more hospitable, as well, although its travels further into the spaceship realm of design. We appreciate the Prius IV’s leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, and power lumbar support.

Our Prius IV test unit was fitted with the Solar Roof Package, which includes a tilt/slide sunroof and interior fan to ventilate a parked car on hot sunny days with power from rooftop solar cells. The $3,600 option package also includes a voice-activated DVD touchscreen navigation system and an integrated backup camera.

The backup camera is especially welcome, as rearward visibility in the Prius is somewhat compromised by the car’s aerodynamic design.

The Prius IV features an eight-speaker JBL sound system along with hands-free Bluetooth and Bluetooth music streaming. While there is a auxiliary audio input jack in the center console as standard issue, the Prius oddly lacks provisions for USB iPod hookup is an added-cost option. Steering wheel controls are well thought out.

The rear seat of the Prius provides a respectable amount of headroom and leg room. Cargo flexibility is a highlight and the Prius can handle those Costco runs with ease. 60/40 rear seats fold flat and provide 21.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Scoring higher fuel economy marks with the Prius is simply a matter of diligence. Once you learn how to drive with a light foot and max out the hybrid system’s potential, you’ll find that 60 or 70 MPG segments are easy to achieve, under the right conditions.

The transmission provides Eco, Power, and EV modes. (We performed the majority of our testing in Eco mode.) EV mode is appropriate only for short-term low speed crawling, in the absence of significant grades.

All 2010 Prius are fitted with P195/65R15 tires, with the exception of the Prius V, which is fitted with larger P215/45R17 tires. Integrated regenerative braking and anti-lock brakes are standard, with power-assisted ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. We found the regenerative brakes to operate smoothly.

All-in-all, the third-generation 2010 Toyota Prius delivers a significant step up from the previous edition, with a more comfortable interior, a smoother ride, and higher fuel efficiency. Although the car’s design might be polarizing, there’s no denying the technical achievement. When driven properly and under the right conditions, conscientious Prius drivers can achieve positively remarkable mileage results.

The 2010 Honda Insight is fitted with a 1.3-liter four cylinder engine and a DC brushless electric motor, mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Insight’s inline four, produces 98 horsepower (HP) and 123 foot pounds of torque, while the electric motor adds 13 HP and 58 foot pounds of torque.

The crisply designed exterior harkens back to the original Honda Insight (sans side skirts) and the CRX which inspired the first generation hybrids.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the 2010 Honda Insight are 40 city / 43 highway miles per gallon (MPG)

We rolled up more than five hundred miles on the odometer of our Clear Sky Blue Insight EX review unit and had no problem trumping the official mileage estimates with an average of 50.8 MPG on the Interstate highway and 46.5 MPG combined.

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the seventies to the high-eighties, with Interstate highway testing temperatures running into the the high eighty degree range. All tests were run in ECON mode.

The Insight scored significantly higher with cruise control off on the highway. There was insignificant difference when running the air conditioner at highway speeds over our test period.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 48.9 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 54.8 MPG
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C on, windows closed: 48.7 MPG

The Insight’s hybrid power train gets the 2734 pound (curb weight with Navigation system) up to highway speeds in a reasonable amount of time. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (courtesy of the Honda Fit), provide access to seven simulated speeds, for those times when you feel the need to indulge your sporting self.

The Insight delivers crisp handling and a 36.1 foot curb-to-curb turning diameter. Some folks may consider the ride to be taught. Our only beef was with the feel of the regenerative brakes.

When driving the Insight, you’re constantly aware of gasoline consumption. The Ambient Meter surrounds the digital speedometer with glowing color that changes from green – when driving in a fuel-efficient manner, to a blue-green – for the times when the engine is under moderate load, to dark blue – when you’re really on the pedal. The speedometer’s placement keeps your eyes centered and on the road.

When you come to a full stop, the Insight’s gasoline engine may shut down, depending on conditions. This can save a considerable amount of fuel in city traffic.

Pressing the ECON button optimizes the drive train for economical driving. This function delivers more MPGs with a bit less performance. The Assist/Charge meter lets you know when the electric motor is providing power or in recharge mode.

The Multi-Information Display (MID) provides instant and average fuel economy data, along with an Eco Guide and the fuel economy results for previous trips. There’s even an “Eco Scoring” feature that turns saving gas into a game.

MPGomatic Note: While the Insight’s glowing Ambient Meter is wicked cool (and quite effective), we always recommend driving with the instant fuel economy or Eco Guide display active, in order to develop a light-footed driving technique to ensure the greatest amount of mileage from every gallon of fuel.

The Insight’s 10.6 gallon gas tank allows for very generous range, with the fill ups few and far between.

The Insight EX features a six-speaker 160-watt audio system that provides a handy USB interface, along with a standard audio input jack. (The base LX model has four speakers.) Our test unit was equipped with the satellite-linked Navigation package with voice recognition and hands-free Bluetooth. Steering wheel controls are excellent. The Insight’s iPod and USB flash drive integration is comprehensive. The USB interface allows for access to playlists, artists, albums, and songs from the Navigation system’s touchscreen display and steering wheel controls.

Note: The 2010 Prius may deliver higher gas mileage, but it does not provide an USB interface.

The rear 60/40 fold down bench seat allows for flexible cargo arrangement, with 15.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity when the rear seats are up and 31.5 cubic feet of capacity when the rear seats down.
Headroom in the back seat is tight for taller folks.

The Insight EX includes a number of welcome safety features, including Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and heated side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.

All-in-all, the 2010 Honda Insight is an extremely thrifty ride for the budget conscious. While its pure fuel economy numbers may fall a bit short of the Toyota Prius, the Insight’s lower sticker price make it a more economical choice. With crisp handling and tight lines, the Insight seeks to widen the niche.

2010 Honda Insight EX Navi Specs at a Glance:
Engine: 1.3-liter inline SOHC i-VTEC four cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system.
Transmission: CVT
Fuel: Regular Unleaded Gasoline
Tank Capacity: 10.6 gallons
Drive: Front-wheel
Brakes: Front-Disc / Rear-Drum (Anti-Lock)
Curb Weight: 2734 pounds with navigation (2727 without)
CARB Emissions Rating: ULEV/AT-PZEV

The 2009 Nissan Cube is fitted with a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Cube’s DOHC inline four, which is shared with the Nissan Versa, produces 122 horsepower (HP) and 127 foot pounds of torque.

With a daring and asymetrical shape, there’s nothing else that looks quite like the Cube on the road today. Say what you might (and we heard a lot over the course of a week), the design provides excellent visibility, while the short wheelbase allows for a high degree of maneuverability, with a turning radius under 34 feet.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the 2009 Nissan Cube are 24 city / 29 highway miles per gallon (MPG) with the manual transmission and 28 city / 30 highway with the CVT. That’s right, my friends … the Cube scores better fuel economy with the automatic.

We put well over five hundred miles on the odometer of our top-of-the-line CVT-equipped White Pearl Cube Krom review unit and easily eclipsed the official mileage estimates with an average of 36.1 MPG on the Interstate highway and 33.4 MPG combined.

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the seventies to the eighties, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the low-eighty degree range.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 34.8 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 37.3 MPG

The Cube’s aerodynamics play a big hand. We were able to flirt with the 40 MPG mark on the two-lane blacktops, at speeds between 45-60 MPH.

This is a transportation appliance, not a sports car. The Cube Krom’s naturally-aspirated inline four and CVT transmission motivate the 2864 pound (curb weight) four-door efficiently and without fanfare.

The Cube responds well to light-footed driving. The Multi-Function Trip Computer provides two trip meters, average speed, miles until empty, average fuel economy, and instant fuel economy data, along with an outside temperature display. The 13.2 gallon gas tank provides a healthy cruising range. The Cube runs on Regular Unleaded gasoline.

MPGomatic Note: We recommend driving with the Cube’s instant fuel economy display active, in order to develop a light-footed driving technique to ensure the greatest amount of mileage from every gallon of fuel.

On the exterior, the top-of-the-line Krom package includes unique 16″ alloy wheels front bumper fascia and grills, along with bodyside sills, rear bumper fascia, and roof spoiler. A sticker on the roof spoiler warns about automated car washes and high-pressure hoses. (Buy the Krom and you’ll be washing it by hand.)

Inside the moon bus, the headliner ripples around the dome light, like a pebble dropped into a pond, while 20-color interior accent lighting aims to set the right mood.

The Cube Krom’s leather-wrapped sport steering wheel provides Bluetooth, audio, and cruise controls. The Krom’s audio system includes six speakers (four 6-1/2 inch speakers and two 1-1/2 inch tweeters), along with a Rockford-Fosgate amplifier and tailgate mounted subwoofer that rattles the windows and echoes the ripple effect.

The AM/FM/CD audio system provides both a basic audio-in jack and USB iPod input, which allows scrolling through playlists, artists, albums, and songs at the head unit.

There are two power outlets at the base of the dash.

Our review unit only included one option, the Interior Designer Package, with plush wavy floor and cargo mats, a peculiar shag dash topper, and front door bungees. (Don’t ask why … it just does.)

Driving the Cube is a bit like piloting your living room sofa, with a bit of an over-stuffed comfy couch feel. The driver’s seat features six way manual adjustment. The front passenger seat provides four way adjustment. The front seats do not provide heating or adjustable lumbar support.

The Cube goes out of its way to accommodate both passengers and cargo. We found the seating to be quite comfortable for four, with an abundance of headroom.

The rear 60/40 fold down bench seat reclines, in addition to sliding forward and backwards. There’s 11.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats up and a whopping 58.1 cubic feet of capacity with the rear seats down.

It’s worth noting that we saw just two other Cubes on the road over the course of our one week review period and both were commercial vehicles. (There’s a special Cargo Version Package, for those so inclined.)

All-in-all, the 2009 Nissan Cube Krom is a unique ride for folks with an open mind and an eye for the future. Good gas mileage, an abundance of interior space, and a high degree of maneuverability and visibility make the Cube a compelling little space ship for transporting both crew and cargo.

2009 Nissan Cube Krom Specs at a Glance:
Engine: 1.8-liter inline DOHC four cylinder
Transmission: CVT
Fuel: Regular Unleaded Gasoline
Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
Drive: Front-wheel
Brakes: Front-Disc / Rear-Drum
Curb Weight: 2864 pounds

When you want to take control over the transmission, just pop the console shifter into manual mode to gain access to gearshifts via the slapstick or steering wheel column mounted paddle shifters.

While it took us a while to warm up to the new-fangled way of changing gears, we’ve seen the light. If you like to keep both hands on the wheel at all times, you’re predisposed to take a liking to the paddle shifters.

Truth be told, the real magic isn’t in the shifters … it’s in the SST transmission itself, as it makes those lightning fast gear changes. The twin-clutches assure that the next gear is always there, with a healthy snap.

As shown in the video’s shift sequences, the difference between the SST transmission’s Normal and Sport modes is readily apparent, with Sport mode providing aggressive up and downshifts.

When the SST transmission is left in Normal mode and is driven conscientiously, shift points are conservative, yet fast. Toggle the console switch forward and Jekyll turns to Hyde. While there’s a just a hint of this under light acceleration, it shows clearly when the pedal is pushed with more urgency.

The shift points are relatively similar between modes at wide open throttle, with the assumption that if you mash it, you must mean it.

The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed twin-clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (SST) and full-time all-wheel-drive system. The inline four produces 237 horsepower (HP) and 253 foot pounds of torque.

The EPA’s fuel economy estimates for the AWD 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart are 17 city / 25 highway miles per gallon (MPG).

We put roughly five hundred miles on the odometer of our Rotor Glow orange metallic review unit and had no problem slipping past the official mileage estimates with an average of 27.8 MPG on the Interstate highway and 22.1 MPG combined.

Overall test period temperatures ranged from the low-seventies to the high-eighties, with Interstate highway testing temperatures in the mid-eighty degree range.

Interstate Mileage Testing:
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 28.0 MPG
Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up (1-inch gap): 28.5 MPG
Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C on, windows closed: 27.3 MPG

The Ralliart’s intercooled single-scroll turbo cranks up the inline four, as it delivers plenty of punch to motivate the 3462 pound (curb weight) sedan, while the SST transmission knocks out rapid fire shifts.

This one’s on rails. Mitsubishi’s full-time All Wheel Control system gets all that power to the road via an automatic center differential that deals out the torque to the front (helical) and rear (mechanical) limited slip differentials.

Switching modes between Tarmac, Gravel, and Snow covered roads is a push-button affair.

Driver controls are excellent.

The Ralliart’s leather-wrapped sport steering wheel puts Bluetooth, audio, and cruise controls safely and conveniently within the driver’s grip. The Sportronic transmission’s steering wheel column-mounted Magnesium paddle shifters are top-notch.

Our review unit was equipped with the Recaro Sport option package, which includes Recaro front bucket seats, high-intensity discharge headlights, and a 9-speaker, 650-watt Rockford-Fosgate Punch sound system, Sirus Satellite Radio, a six-CD in-dash head unit, and a 10-inch trunk mounted subwoofer.

While the Recaro seats keep you snug between the bolsters, they do not provide heating or lumbar support. Seat adjustments are limited to fore/aft and recline. There’s plenty of legroom for tall drivers.

There are two power outlets: one at the base of the dash and the other inside the center console. The audio system provides a basic audio-in jack. There is no USB iPod input.

Our test unit was not equipped with the optional Navigation Package, which includes a 40GB HDD Digital Music Server.

Is that a subwoofer in the trunk, or a Marshall amp?

The Fast-Key allows automatic unlocking and a power trunk release. With the subwoofer in the trunk, the cargo area provides 9.1 cubic feet of space. (Count on 10.0 cubic feet of storage, sans subwoofer.) The 60/40 fold-down rear seats allow for a flexible arrangement of cargo and passengers.

We found the seating to be reasonably comfortable for four, with plenty of headroom.

The Ralliart’s Multi-Information LCD display provides two trip meters, coolant temperature, outside temperature, service reminders, and range to empty, along with average and instant fuel economy data.

We always recommend driving with the instant fuel economy display active, in order to develop a light-footed driving technique that gets the greatest amount of mileage out of every gallon of fuel.

The 14.5 gallon gas tank provides an average range when driven conscientiously. The turbocharged four cylinder engine is designed to run on Premium Unleaded (91 octane) fuel.

All-in-all, the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a trusty steed, well-suited to a variety of road conditions. This all-wheel-drive sports sedan delivers a level of performance that one would expect in a much more expensive vehicle, and with reasonable fuel economy, to boot.