Take a sneak peak at the 2011 Charlotte Auto Show cars

If you are an enthusiast, you know that this is nothing new. After testing several of these 2012 models first-hand, I wrote this feature to give you an idea of what to expect from some of these models.

I have also included information on several models that I have not tested. This is one of the most comprehensive automotive preview features you will find anywhere. I hope that you enjoy my work and that it helps you in your search for your next new car.

2012 Acura TL SH-AWD (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Entry level luxury, all-wheel drive, four door, five passenger performance sedan PRICE RANGE: $36,000—$43,000 ENGINES: 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 pounds feet of torque, 3.7-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower and 273 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Six speed manual & six speed automatic transmission with front wheel drive & all-wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 5.2 seconds (3.7 liter V6, SH AWD) FUEL ECONOMY: 17mpg city/25 mpg highway SPECIAL FEATURES: Super Handling All-Wheel Drive COMPETITOR MODELS: Cadillac CTS (sedan), Audi A4, BMW 3, Infiniti G (sedan), Lexus IS (sedan), Mercedes-Benz C (sedan), Volvo S60 PRODUCTION LOCATION: Marysville, Ohio WEBSITE: acura.com/tl NOTES: I was thoroughly impressed by the Acura SH-AWD edition of the TL during my comprehensive test a few months ago, which has already been updated. Acura has made two changes to the TL for the 2012 model year. The most noticeable is to the exterior styling making it less edgy. Although I thought and still think, the chevron shaped grill looks like an element from the Transformers emblem and its overall design was atypical, the TL had character. Love it or hate it, the TL evokes an emotional reaction and is not bland. The next change is the addition of a six speed automatic transmission. My test was of a six speed manual, which was an absolute blast to drive. The Acura TL holds its own against stellar performers like the class leading Infiniti G and the Cadillac CTS, if not betters against these and the likes of the Lexus IS and Mercedes Benz C. Tangible attributes, its accurate steering, solid brakes and nimble, high tech all-wheel drive suspension are all evident when behind the wheel. The intangibles are not so evident especially from the outside. Unlike some of its competitors, the TL gives one the singular feeling of not following the crowd and the uniqueness a model that is just a bit unconventional but nevertheless right on point.

2012 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible LT (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Two door, four passenger performance convertible PRICE RANGE: $30,000—$42,000 ENGINE: 3.6 liter V6 producing 323 horsepower and 278 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Six speed automatic with rear wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 6.0 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 17mpg city/28 highway SPECIAL FEATURES: COMPETITOR MODELS: Ford Mustang phantom top, BMW 328i, Lexus ISc, Infiniti G phantom top PRODUCTION LOCATION: Oshawa, Ontario Canada WEBSITE: chevrolet.com/camaro NOTES: When Chevrolet introduced the Camaro concept a few years back at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, I got it all wrong. Based upon past experiences, Chevrolet typically waters down the production versions spawned from their concepts. I thought that the Camaro would be a washed out, "bean counter" picked apart whisper of a production version. Part of me thought that there was even a chance that Chevrolet would not even produce the Camaro, and that the concept was just a cruel tease. Long story short, open mouth and insert foot… Not only did Chevrolet build a production version that is virtually a duplicate of the concept, it was not overweight, bloated, slow and clumsy like another muscle car concept that debuted in Detroit during the same show; hint, hint. Now there is an open air phantom top version of the Chevrolet Camaro. Anyone that has read my reviews over the years and especially those who know me, know that I am not a huge fan of "muscle" cars. I prefer smaller, lighter, less powerful, more nimble sports cars. Don't read me wrong, I do appreciate and have a lot of fun with well designed, good performing muscle cars. However, the Chevrolet Camaro phantom top gave me a small serving of Crow to eat along with my main entrée of foot. The Camaro phantom top looks excellent and easily surpasses the style of the Camaro coupe. Power for the 3.6 liter V6 unit that I tested over the summer was not mind blowing, but was enough wrestle a few grins from my ugly mug. Rather than look at the V6 Camaro as all out muscle car, it should be thought of as stylish, comfortable, quick cruiser more suited as a daily runner and especially for that weekend getaway to the mountains or coast.

2012 Chevrolet Volt (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Plug in electric model assisted by gasoline powered electric generator, four door, four passenger sedan PRICE RANGE: $39,000—$45,000 ENGINE: 1.4 liter four cylinder producing 84 horsepower and 90 pounds feet of torque, and an electric drive motor producing 149 horsepower and 273 pounds feet of torque http://www.chevrolet.com/volt-electric-ca Chevy Volt DRIVETRAIN: One speed, direct drive, with front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.9 seconds EPA FUEL ECONOMY: 95 city 93 highway electricity only / 35 city 40 highway gasoline only TESTED FUEL ECONOMY: 66.5 mpg city/highway average (622 miles total during my week long test one tank of gasoline) PRODUCTION LOCATION: Detroit, Michigan COMPETITOR MODELS: Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius plug-in SPECIAL FEATURES: Electric generator powered by gasoline WEBSITE: chevrolet.com/volt NOTES: Although the Chevrolet Volts extended range set-up is a simple solution to the issues of the limitations of current plug-in electric vehicles, explaining it can be clumsy. This is why many are confused about the Chevrolet Volt. Is a gas or an electric model? Traditional hybrids like the Ford Fusion hybrid or the Toyota Prius are gasoline powered models that are assisted by electric motors. These electric motors propel them from 0mph up to a certain limit. Sometimes this limit is speed or a combination of speed & distance which is determined by how long the charge lasts.

The Chevrolet Volt is similar and different at the same time. It is similar in that it has a gasoline engine too, but it is also a plug model which hybrids are not. Hybrid models charge their limited electric motors typically during braking with regenerative systems. The Chevrolet Volt is different because its gasoline engine is only used as an electric generator. This engine/generator does not move the car but only generates more electricity, which in turn propels the car.

Unlike plug-in electric models like the Nissan Leaf, the Chevrolet Volt has a much greater range. The Nissan leaf has been tested with a range just over 100 miles, between 120 miles and 150 miles. During my extensive test of the Chevrolet Volt, I was able to drive it for a total of 622 miles before its gasoline powered electric generator was completely depleted of fuel.

The Chevrolet Volt achieved a combined city/highway average between 66 & 68 "mpg" during my week long test. My shortest range in assisted electric mode was 27 miles which used one gallon of gasoline generated electricity. This was impressive because this was achieved in the mountains where the elevation put the most strain on the system. The fact that I had two adult passengers with me on this trip made this even more impressive. My longest non-assisted electric charge was 62 miles, which is twice the distance that most who will within a metropolitan area drive on average. By my estimation, the Volts range could be extended far beyond the 622 total miles that I achieved. These 622 miles was covered on neighborhood streets, busy roads, highways, mountains and with speeds up to 101mph. Add to this that I was only using a 110v outlet to charge the Volt meant that I did not get a full charge every night.

When I ride my all carbon-fiber Specialized Roubaix bicycle into work, it's a 15 mile ride each way covering 30 miles round trip. Even with errand stops by restaurants, the grocery store or pharmacy most of these points are along my ride route. If I can do much of this on a bicycle, it can be achieved in a car. It also means that someone with a 220v charger could get a full charge every night after work. In turn, they could drive the Volt for days without tapping into the gasoline electric generator.

Yes, the $40,000+ price is steep, but I am surprised that Chevrolet has not sold more Volts. In fact, the Nissan Leaf is killing it in sales. Not to knock the Leaf, but the Volt has superior range, great economy, is very comfortable, quick, is more powerful and actual looks good. Another way to look at the Volt is to accept it for what it is; the half-way point between hybrids and full plug-in electric models with 300+ mile maximum range limitations.

2012 Chrysler 300 (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Full size four-door, five passenger entry level luxury sedan PRICE RANGE: $32,000—$37,000 ENGINE: 3.6 liter V6 producing 292 horsepower and 260 pounds feet of torque http://www.chrysler.com/en/2011/300 Chrysler 300 DRIVETRAIN: Six speed automatic transmission, rear wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 7.1 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 18city mpg/27highway mpg PRODUCTION LOCATION: Brampton, Ontario, Canada COMPETITOR MODELS: Lincoln LS, Acura TL, Ford Taurus, Buick Lacrosse, Dodge Charger, Lexus ES350, Chevrolet Impala, Nissan Maxima SPECIAL FEATURES: UConnect infotainment system WEBSITE: chrysler.com/en NOTES: The previous generation Chrysler 300 was a revolution of sorts. Hold on, first I need to back this joy ride up by a couple of feet. The 2012 Chrysler 300 is in reality, just a revised, updated version of the first generation model that was first introduced in 2005. This is more of a half step, before a truly all-new version is introduced.

In 2005, when the 300/300C was introduced, it marked the first rear-wheel drive sedan the company had produced in years. It was/is based upon the excellent Mercedes Benz E-Class platform borrowed from then parent company Mercedes Benz.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 instantly communicates that the level of its refinement has been raised. In many ways; its handsome style, features like prox key, remote start, push button start, touch center screen and smooth ride announces luxury. Transversely at times it only feels like a near luxury model rather than a true, fully on luxury car.

Horsepower and torque have both been increased over the old 3.5 liter V6 power plant, from 250 horsepower and 250 pounds feet of torque, to 292 horsepower and 260 pounds feet of torque generated with the larger 3.6 liter V6.

Overall, the 300 is smooth, convenient feature packed and comfortable.

Technology is increasingly becoming a corner stone feature among American models. The 2012 Chrysler 300 is no different with its UConnect infotainment system. A 8.4 inch touch screen is the portal which can provide live weather, sports, entertainment and fuel pricing information. Sirius provides information on current weather and future forecasts, schedules on NFL & NBA contests, well NFL schedules and scores. UConnect can even give race results for past and current Indy Car and NASCAR races. Off the line power is good from 2,000rpm but levels off afterwards. Overall the 2012 Chrysler 300 is a smooth, comfortable, well-appointed model that most would enjoy.

2012 Ford Focus VEHICLE TYPE: Four-door sedan & four-door hatch back economy model PRICE RANGE: $17,000—$23,000 ENGINES: 2.0 liter four cylinder producing 160 horsepower and 146 pounds feet of torque, DRIVETRAINS: five speed manual transmission, six speed automatic transmission, front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 7.2 seconds, 7.5 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 26mpg city/38mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Warren, Michigan COMPETITOR MODELS: Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Jetta, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Chevrolet Cruze, Nissan Sentra, Dodge Caliber SPECIAL FEATURES: MyFord Touch WEBSITE: Ford.com/cars/focus NOTES: Everyone and I do mean everyone, and their monkeys uncle even, was disappointed with the last generation Focus. We all thought that the version Ford sells in Europe was going to be brought over, but no dice. In an effort to divert our attention from this blunder, Ford introduced an all-new Fiesta. Not only was this an excellent move in distraction, but an excellent redesign too. In fact, the Fiesta is one of my all-time favorite economy cars. Fast forward to now, and Ford has finally brought us the version of the Focus that it pushes in Europe, SCORE! The 2012 Ford Focus is stylish from practically every angle elevating its visual value above its respective class. Only the Hyundai Elantra can compare with everything else in this class being boring and as bland as a straight line. Not only is the Ford Focus stylish, it also has a host of high tech features. One such feature is torque vectoring control which uses one wheel braking to increase stability and cornering performance. This is a feature typically only found on high-end sports cars.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss VEHICLE TYPE: Two-door, four passenger Pony car PRICE RANGE: $42,000—$44,000 ENGINE: 5.0 liter V8 producing 444 horsepower and 380 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Six speed manual transmission with rear wheel drive http://www.ford.com/cars/mustang/2012mustangboss/ Mustang Boss 0-60 TIME: 4.2 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 17mpg city/26mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Windsor, Ontario Canada COMPETITOR MODELS: Chevrolet Camaro SS, Dodge Challenger SRT8, BMW M3 SPECIAL FEATURES: 7,500 redline, quad exhaust, removable rear seat with x brace WEBSITE: ford.com/cars/mustang/2012mustangboss NOTES: Simply put the Roush Mustang 427R is the measuring stick by which all Ford Mustangs are measured. The Roush 427R, albeit a few years old now, made me a believer in the "Cat in the hat", and what he can do with a Mustang. Not only did the 427R kick like a government mule, it had impressive lateral performance levels too. Ford has since released the all-new 412 horsepower 5.0 liter V8, follow by the 550 horsepower Shelby GT500. Both of these Mustangs, like the 427R proved to me that Pony cars can perform laterally as well. Now Ford has brought back the Boss 302 and it is more than the special "Boss sticker edition" that has been offered in recent years. This Boss 302 is designed to be a street monster, but primarily a weekend track tool. There are a number of impressive performance features that are available for the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 from Brembo brakes, adjustable suspension, removable rear seat with x-brace member, supportive front seats, performance gauge package and front air splitter. Although the Shelby GT500 has more horsepower, the Boss 302 is nearly 200lbs., 188lbs. lighter and is better tuned for the track. Now there Ford has a Mustang for everyone. 2012 MyFord Touch, Sync & Safety (tested) We will be treaded to many unbelievable technological advances that will break to the public in the coming days, weeks, months and years. It is my theory that these major leaps in technology are not the only factors that will change the way we all live and play. It will however be how existing technology is re-envisioned that will change the playing field. When someone takes a technology initially designed for one purpose and adapts or applies it in a way not thought of before, amazing things will happen.

When Ford first teamed up with Microsoft and created the Sync system it was a revelation. A system that translates different languages, take telephone calls via voice, and reads text messages. This was the next big leap since General Motors launched OnStar.

Now Ford has upgraded the system and has announced fresh and crispy techno bits for Sync and MyTouch operations. I attended a technology symposium hosted by Ford in Dearborn, Michigan on its new and upcoming entertainment and safety advancements.

Some of the safety advancements include sensors that can monitor heart rates for possible heart attacks and inflatable rear seat belts. The rear inflatable seat belts were actually old news since they made their debut on the all-new 2011 Ford Explorer. Even more impressive is the technology that Ford wants to introduce that will allow cars to communicate with each other. Equipped vehicles will have the ability to communicate via short range Wi-Fi. This will allow cars to alert cars of oncoming traffic, which will allow for your car to avoid an accident if you are unaware of approaching or crossing traffic that is blocked from view. Traffic congestion will also be communicated when other cars are stopped by grid lock, which will allow other cars to avoid these areas. By default, this in the long run can save fuel since fewer cars will avoid grid lock burning gas stuck in traffic.

Entertainment wise the Sync system powered by Microsoft and accented by Nuance speech recognition voice control now has the ability to connect with Pandora, Stitch and OpenBeak. Long story short, American manufacturers like Ford are advancing not only how cars are designed or built but also how well they interface with the driver and passengers.

Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Two-door, two passenger sport hybrid hatch-back PRICE RANGE: $19,600—$26,000 ENGINE: 1.5 liter four cylinder producing 122 horsepower and 128 pounds feet of torque, 13 horsepower, 58 pounds feet of torque electric motor DRIVETRAIN: Six speed manual transmission, front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.2 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 31mpg city/37 mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Suzuka, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: No true direct competition SPECIAL FEATURES: Only hybrid on the market with a manual transmission hybrid on market WEBSITE: automobiles.honda.com NOTES: Many have bashed the 2012 Honda CR-Z because they were expecting it to have Si performance levels. The CR-Z was not designed to be a Si equivalent. Simply put, the CR-Z is a two-door, two-seat, small car that is fun drive. In fact, the CR-Z could be considered slow boasting a zero to sixty time of say, Molasses. Alright, maybe that was a bit heavy. Rather say its slow as Molasses, I will say its more like thinner, mass produced pancake syrup which is quicker. No matter how you serve it, 8.3 seconds is still considered slow.

The Honda CR-Z is somewhat of an enigma. It is not fast and it does not come close to shattering any economy fuel savings numbers. In fact, during my bi-coastal test of the CR-Z, I averaged a combined city/highway 33 miles per gallon. My test in Charlotte netted me 340 miles on one tank of fuel before the gasoline was completely exhausted. I was not able to exhaust the fuel during my test in San Diego, California but averaged about the same fuel economy rating.

The CR-Z was pushed hard during both tests, especially my blasts back and forth across the 405 between Los Angeles and San Diego. My average highway speed in Charlotte was around 82mph and my average highway speed in Cali was around 91mph. So I am sure that those who drive "sanely" would average a higher miles per gallon averages. Someone driving sanely could probably get close to a 40mpg average. Nevertheless, the numbers are not the 45+ mpg averages that most expect from hybrids.

OK, it is not that fast of a "sports" car and it does conserve fuel like some earth saving, Captain Planet, super-mobile. What makes it special? Why buy it? But wait, there is a plot twist…

If you are unfamiliar with my taste in automobiles and motorcycles; I love power, high performance and speed. Well, I guess you can tell that from the way I drove the CR-Z. Even with its "short comings" I would highly recommend the 2012 Honda CR-Z. I had a blast driving the CR-Z and it put a smile on my face practically every time I drove it. In fact, the CR-Z is a model that I would buy myself.

The CR-Z is the only hybrid on the market with an available with a manual transmission. The stick was fun to operate with my only complaint being that the clutch was a bit vague. However it was easy to drive even for a first time driver like my 15 year old niece. The steering was good and nimble as you would expect from a Honda. Even the brakes and suspension made for fun "sporty" treks.

Anyone that complains about the Honda CR-Z either has not driven it, or cant see the big picture. After all, if you cant afford the Tesla Roadster, I know that I cant. Is there another sporty hybrid alternative? What, the Toyota Prius? Really, who would rather drive the Prius than the sleek, sporty, two-door Honda CR-Z? That's what I thought. Nuff, said…

2012 Honda Fit (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Four-door, four passenger (five in a pinch) hatch-back PRICE RANGE: $15,000—$20,000 ENGINE: 1.5 liter four cylinder engine producing 117 horsepower and 106 pounds feet of torque TRANSMISSION: Six speed manual DRIVETRAIN: All wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.2 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 27mpg city/31mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Suzuka, Mie, Japan and several other countries COMPETITOR MODELS: Kia Soul, Hyundai Elantra Touring, Kia Rio, Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic Hatch, Dodge Caliber SPECIAL FEATURES: Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System WEBSITE: automobiles.honda.com/fit/ NOTES: Power for the Fit was just enough for daily transportation and will by no means impress most drivers. However, this compact like many other Hondas urges you to drive it. Recently Honda made some changes to the styling of the Fit, giving it more character. In fact, it looks like a completely different vehicle. Although the Fit's main purpose is utility and economy it has an element of fun. Other than the Ford Fiesta, one of the Fits key competitors, is about the only other vehicle in this class that I would own. The Fit has great style, good economy and its nimble steering and suspension also give it a sporty feel. Its seats are supportive, but comfortable and the rear seats fold to expand the Fits cargo space.

2012 Hyundai Veloster VEHICLE TYPE: Three door, four passenger (five in a pinch) sporty hatch back PRICE RANGE: $18,000—$20,000 ENGINE: 1.6 liter four cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 123 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Six speed manual transmission & six speed automatic transmission with front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.8 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 28city mpg/40mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Ulsan, Korea COMPETITOR MODELS: Scion tC, VW Beetle, Ford Fiesta, Mini Cooper Coupe, Honda Civic Coupe, Fiat 500 SPECIAL FEATURES: BlueLink WEBSITE: hyundaiusa.com/vehicles/2012/veloster/ NOTES: If you are not a fan of stylish, sporty hot-hatchs just move on to the next model, because this will not interest you. It only takes one short look at the Hyundai Veloster and you want one. It is simply that "kuel". Power for the current model is not impressive, but with unique features like BlueLink, great styling and three doors accented by a hatch back, the Veloster wins one over with the overall package. Early word is that Hyundai plans to introduce a more powerful turbo charged power plant. When manufacturers like Hyundai get on a roll, it is hard to stop their momentum.

Lexus CT200h (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Four door, five passenger, "performance" hybrid hatch back PRICE RANGE: $29,000—$35,000 ENGINE: 1.8 liter four cylinder producing 134 horsepower and 142 pounds feet of torque with electric motor drive DRIVETRAIN: CVT transmission with front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 9.7 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 43mpg city/40mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: Audi A3 TDI, Volvo C30, BMW 1 Series, Mazdaspeed 3 SPECIAL FEATURES: Performance mode hybrid drive WEBSITE: lexus.com/models/CTh NOTES: There is one big problem with most purpose designed hybrids. Most are odd, if not outright goofy looking. On one hand, I understand the reasoning. Many hybrid owners want it to be obvious that they are being "friends" to the Earth. OK, I get this, and I too would probably want it to be known that my vehicle purchase was an "attempt" to be green as well.

Transversely, there are many others who would buy "green" vehicles if they looked good, say like the Chevrolet Volt. This brings us to the 2012 Lexus CT200h. Upon initial sight, the CT200h is odd looking too. There is also the quirky name, CT200h, a mouthful. After my first day of testing, the CT200h's design began to grow on me. From some angles it looks similar to the Audi A3 sport wagon. Its low, wide, stance has a sporty side to it and if lowered would look even better.

The "sportiness" of the exterior continues to the interior with the driver and passenger surrounded by a snug dash. As you would expect, the 0—60 time for the CT200h is not all that swift. In fact, the estimated 0—60 time for the CT200h is between 9.7 seconds and 10.4 seconds. To make things worse, that estimate bracket was set in "sport" mode.

Another thing that is expected from the Lexus is a high level of refinement and comfort. The CT200h passes on both of these marks with flying colors.

In all honesty, nothing truly stood out about the CT200h. It simply did not flip my wig. It did however do what I expected it to do. The steering was smooth, it was quite, the ride was comfortable and featured a touch of "sportiness".

Fuel efficiency was also as advertised and I averaged a combined city/highway of 40mpg. As you know, unlike traditional models, hybrids have better fuel economy in the city. Most of my testing, at least 60% of it was conducted on the highway. This in addition to my well above posted speed limit averages, made the 40mpg even more impressive. In other words, the average driver will reach higher mpg's than I did.

The Lexus CT200h fills a niche in that there are no small luxury hybrids on the market with a sport style, sport feel and utility. I don't know how many CT200h's Lexus plans to produce, but I cant see a MEGA amount of these being sold. Don't quote me on that. Well, I guess, I just quoted myself. Just forget that you just read that.

If you are in the market for a "unique" luxury hybrid, this could be the choice for you. Again, the CT200h did not "fail", it just did not floor me in any particular way.

2012 Lexus LS460 VEHICLE TYPE: Four door, five passenger, full size, luxury flagship PRICE RANGE: $67,000—$80,000 ENGINE: 4.6 liter V8 producing 380 horsepower and 367 pounds feet of torque http://www.lexus.com/models/LS/ Lexus LS DRIVETRAIN: Eight speed automatic, rear wheel drive & all-wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 5.9 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 16mpg city/24mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Tahara, Aichi, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: Audi A8, BMW 7 series, Cadillac STS, Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes Benz Sclass, Porsche Panamera SPECIAL FEATURES: Lexus quality and refinement WEBSITE: lexus.com/models/LS/ NOTES: When Lexus introduced the current LS a few years ago in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show, it stood out. First, although still conservative and bland even when compared to the bold styling of the BMW 7 or the contoured lines of the Mercedes Benz Sclass, it was different. It was different from the other LS models because it actually looked good. The other thing that stood out was its eight speed, yes, eight speed automatic transmission. I remember attending the Mercedes Benz press conference and then the Lexus that day in Detroit. It was like a television commercial come to life. Mercedes Benz was so proud adding another gear to their six speed transmission, giving it the first seven speed automatic transmission. Then Lexus introduced its eight speed automatic transmission. Wait, WHAT…it was classic! What can be said about flagship luxury models like the LS460? What can be said, everything and nothing at all. As you would expect, practically every creature comfort and luxury feature is available on the LS460. Then add to this Lexus' trade mark quality and refinement and you have it. The Lexus LS460 is the type of luxury car that will pamper the driver and its passenger in a way that few others can. In addition, with a 0-60 under six seconds, it can scoot for a full size luxury model. So what is the LS460? It is a luxury model that is stylish, quite, smooth, luxurious and spacious.

2012 Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTec 4MATIC VEHICLE TYPE: Four door, five passenger, full size, luxury flagship PRICE RANGE: $90,000—$94,000 ENGINE: 3.0 liter turbo charged V6 diesel producing 240 horsepower and 455 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Seven speed automatic with all-wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 7.0 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 21mpg city/31mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Berlin, Germany/ Frankfurt, Germany/ Toluca, Mexico/Santiago, Mexico/ Tianguistenco, Mexico COMPETITOR MODELS: Audi A8, BMW 7 series, Cadillac STS, Maserati Quattroporte, Lexus LS460, Porsche Panamera SPECIAL FEATURES: Efficient Bluetech diesel WEBSITE: mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/class/class-S NOTES: Most people, even non enthusiasts know what horsepower is, but most do not know what torque is. In the "real" driving world, torque is paramount and is just as important if not more important than horsepower. So it absolutely kills me when I reading a "general" interests or watch a "general" interests television program about a particular automotive product and torque is never mentioned. Simply put, horsepower is a measurement of how much power an engine generates and torque is a measurement of how much of that energy reaches the ground in the form of pulling or pushing. Diesel engines generate far more torque than comparable gasoline engines. They are in general far more efficient in burning this fuel as well. Several years ago, I tested a Mercedes Benz e-class diesel. This model was the predecessor to the current more efficient Bluetech diesel. This "old" Mercedes Benz diesel achieved an impressive 620+ miles on one tank of fuel. Now the top of the line Mercedes Benz Sclass has this impressive diesel technology as well. What a combination; the Sclass' luxurious accommodations, style, safety, prestige and an efficient diesel power plant.

2012 Nissan Quest Mini-Van (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Five door, seven passenger mini van PRICE RANGE: $28,000—$42,000 ENGINE: 3.5 liter V6 producing 260 horsepower and 240 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: CVT Transmission, front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.2 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 19mpg city/24mpg highway PRODUCTION LOCATION: Shatai, Kyūshū, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Dodge Caravan, Volkswagen Routan SPECIAL FEATURES: CVT transmission WEBSITE: nissanusa.com/quest NOTES: Many, many, many moons ago, the Minivan market was dominated and controlled by American manufacturers, primarily Dodge. Now the script has been completely flipped. In fact, the whole Minivan market has changed with only a few manufacturers now producing them. It is Honda and Toyota who rule this realm with an iron fist. Now Nissan has entered the fray with its latest version of the Quest to compete with the likes of the outstanding Toyota Sienna and the excellent Honda Odyssey. The Nissan Quest is more of a utilitarian Minivan than the Sienna and the Odyssey. Where the Sienna has a host of features and nice style, and the Odyssey has a sleek style, non-minivan performance levels and luxury, the Quest is more about space. Even its boxy, squared off style allows it to open more space for people and cargo. The Quest will simply shuttle you and your family with space and comfort. In the end this what most Minivan drivers want.

2012 Nissan Murano Phantom Top (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Two door, four passenger convertible SUV PRICE RANGE: $44,000—$48,000 ENGINE: 3.5 liter V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 pounds feet of torque http://carreviewsratings.net/ Murano Crossover DRIVETRAIN: CVT Transmission, all wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 7.6 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 17city mpg/22highway mpg (observer combined city/highway average: 19 mpg) PRODUCTION LOCATION: Kyushu, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: None SPECIAL FEATURES: Convertible top on an SUV WEBSITE: nissanusa.com/murano NOTES: Most people that are into cars or motorcycles instantly know when they see something new. Practically any change, no matter how subtle, is spotted by these enthusiasts. On the other hand, those who are not into cars or motorcycle only recognize large, obvious changes. It is vehicles like the three wheeled Can-Am Spyder motorcycle or a phantom-top SUV, like the Nissan Murano Cross-Cabriolet that will catch the attention of these non-enthusiasts too.

The first thing that you will notice about the Murano phantom-top is how much everyone notices it. Similar to the Can-Am Spyder, the Murano phantom-top gave many passersby whiplash. I could practically see cartoon bubbles above their heads fill with the words; "WHAT IS THAT?!"

When you think about it, this solves a common problem with most drop-tops. Phantom-tops are fun, but typically only have enough space for two passengers with very little space for cargo. Transforming an SUV into a drop-top is a risk, but could pay off big for Nissan.

Immediately after ending my test of the impressive, sports car low, Chevrolet Volt, I began my test of the Murano. This magnified the Muranos height, width and overall girth. Simply put, the Murano looks and feels massive. Rear leg room and passenger space is not luxurious, but is far better than most drop tops. In reality, rear passenger space is good, even when compared to fixed top models. Headroom falls a bit short when the top is up, but is still good. When the top is down and occupying a large chunk of the trunk, cargo room is still pretty good.

Overall the Murano was impressive. Wind noise and buffeting was pretty low with the top down.

The ride was comfortable over most surfaces, the seats were comfy, and the engine and transmission was like butter. Overall, I was very impressed by the Murano Cross Cabriolet. But as a car guy, I think that it looks and feels a bit girly. Don't read me wrong, it is not as girly like some others like the Fiat 300 drop top, Mercedes Benz SLK drop top and especially the Mini Cooper drop.

I am sure that Nissan will sell a good amount of these to the general public, but I have some advice for the company. Fleet sales, fleet sales, FLEET SALES! They are the key to this model. Think about it. If you are on vacation and you want to rent a phantom-top, would you rent a traditional drop or pick the Murano? I can also see the Murano drop as part of high-end vacation resort fleets too. Nissan, are you reading this? If so, I want a cut of the commissions.

2012 Porsche 911 Carrera (991) VECHICLE TYPE: Two doo, two passenger pure sports car PRICE RANGE: $85,000—$100,000 ENGINE: 3.4 liter flat-six boxer producing 350 horsepower and 287 pounds feet of torque, 3.8 liter flat-six boxer producing 400 horsepower and 325 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Seven speed automatic transmission & seven speed manual (not a typo) transmission with rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive coming soon 0-60 TIME: 4.4 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 18city mpg/26highway mpg PRODUCTION LOCATION: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany COMPETITOR MODELS: Aston Martin V8 Vantage, BMW M3, Chevrolet Corvette, Ferrari 458 Italia, McLaren MP4-12C, Lamborghini Gallardo, Lotus Evora SPECIAL FEATURES: Seven speed manual transmission WEBSITE: porsche.com/microsite/911 NOTES: There are few manufacturers who place a premium on motorsports and pure sports car models. Some of those manufacturers are BMW, Ferrari and McLaren. Then there is Porsche. Like Ferrari and McLaren, Porsche stands out as one of those brands all enthusiasts love to hate or absolutely love. The new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera is the next step in the legendary sports cars evolution. Porsches engineers have made it larger but lighter, more fuel efficient but more dynamic. The 911 is one of those few sports cars, like the Chevrolet Corvette or BMW M3 that can truly be lived with as a daily driver and perform on the track as well. Many will complain, including me, that the shape has not changed much. True, but neither has the 911's high level of practicality, technology and performance.

2012 Subaru Forester (tested) VEHICLE TYPE: Four door, five passenger, crossover SUV PRICE RANGE: $20,000—$30,000 ENGINE: 2.5 liter boxer four cylinder producing 170 horsepower and 174 pounds feet of torque DRIVETRAIN: Four speed automatic transmission with all-wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.4 seconds FUEL ECONOMY: 21city mpg/27highway mpg PRODUCTION LOCATION: Ōta, Gunma, Japan COMPETITOR MODELS: Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Nitro, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4 SPECIAL FEATURES: Detachable Tom Tom GPS unit WEBSITE: subaru.com/vehicles/forester NOTES: Everyone knows Subaru's glamour models such as the very surprising Legacy sedan and the awesome WRX. Soon the WRX will be joined by an all-new two door, rear wheel drive (yes, rear wheel drive) sports car developed along with Toyota. However many, including myself, overlook Subaru's "adventure" wagons and crossover SUVs. In fact, Subaru was one of the pioneers in this category with the Forester.

Another thing that is often overlooked when it comes to Subaru is its customer loyalty. No, it's not because the Hippies absolutely love Subarus. Well, the hippies do absolutely love Subarus, but I digress. This is not a dig at Hippies because I feel like I am a Hippie sometimes or was a Hippie before (whoa!). Their customers are loyal because Subarus are solidly engineered, well built and are reliable. In fact, Subaru was one of the top rated manufacturers in the industry, over Toyota even.

The Subaru Forester is a crossover SUV that the Hippies are going to love. In fact, when your kids are driving through the mountains 30 years from now, Hippies no doubt will be driving the Foresters that they buy this year then.

The Forester has a new but conservative style, one that blends in with its surroundings. It is also a comfortable and very versatile crossover. I did not get a chance to test the turbocharged version, but the normally aspirated version was just "all right" on power. However, its suspension and all-wheel drive made up for this lack of power in the curves.

The available, detachable Tom Tom navigation unit was a neat surprise, and it came in very handy in and out of the Forester.

Bottom line: the Subaru Forester will deliver everything that a new crossover should. It will just do it in a very chill way.

2012 Toyota Camry VEHICLE TYPE: Four door, five passenger contemporary mid-sized sedan PRICE RANGE: $23,000—$30,000 ENGINES: 2.5 liter four cylinder producing 178 horsepower and 170 pounds feet of torque, 3.5 liter V6 producing 268 horsepower and 248 pounds feet of torque, 2.5 liter four cylinder paired with Hybrid drive producing 200 horsepower DRIVETRAIN: Six speed automatic transmission & CTV with front wheel drive 0-60 TIME: 8.7 seconds (2.5 liter) FUEL ECONOMY: 25city mpg/35highway mpg (2.5 liter) PRODUCTION LOCATION: Georgetown, Kentucky COMPETITOR MODELS: Buick Regal, Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata SPECIAL FEATURES: Infotainment system WEBSITE: toyota.com/camry NOTES: For years, decades even, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord were tops in the contemporary sedan class. That turf has now been invaded by the likes of the Ford Fusion and the Hyundai Sonata. Hyundai has made the biggest transformation from seller dweller to industry darling. While the Camry is still considered an industry benchmark, so too now is the Hyundai Sonata. It is the Sonata and the Fusion that the Camry will be measured by. Toyota will offer three models including a four cylinder, six cylinder and a hybrid edition. No doubt Camry loyalists will flock to this new model like they have the others that came before it. However, the challenge from its competition is much, much stiffer than ever before.

2012 Verizon Wireless 4GLTE

Nothing is worse than being on the road and not being able to connect to the Internet. Over the summer I tested Veriszons MiFi hotspot unit while traveling between North Carolina and California it worked like a charm. I was even able to get service in the middle of a state park near San Diego. Verizon already has one of the, if not the best wireless networks available, and now it can provide 4G LTE service . This service can be tapped either by way of an Android phone or MiFi 4GLTE hotspot unit. Since I am always on the road testing cars or motorcycles, it is important that I can stay connected. My brief test of the Verizon unit opened my eye to practically unlimited wireless communication.