BMW has just revealed the next-generation F30-based 3-Series Sports Wagon, and it will be coming to the U.S. with a release date in early-to-mid-2013. The 3-Series wagons have always represented an overall outstanding daily driver with sport sedan dynamics and all the cargo capacity of a small to midsize SUV.
Like the new 2012 3-Series sedan, the longer Sports Wagon sits on an increased wheelbase and wider track compared with the outgoing model. This adds rear seat room and brings 10% more cargo capacity, growing to around 67 cubic feet. The 2013 Ford Escape offers 68.1 cubic feet; the 2012 VW Jetta Sport Wagon brings 66.9.
Fuel efficiency in the rear-drive 328i should approach the sedan’s 23 city/34 highway mpg. All-wheel drive xDrive models will also be available. BMW has not confirmed U.S. engine choices, though expect 328i, 335i and diesel variants and a confirmed M-Sport model.
If you’re reading this, you’ll fall into one of two categories: a car enthusiast, nor non-car enthusiast. Regardless of your orientation, this story cannot be ignored. The video below is in memory of Paul Annuziata, who passed away after a battle with lung cancer. You won’t find another 1975 Plymouth Duster like it.
And you won’t find another act with as much selflessness and humility as you will here. See how Jay Leno played a part in providing a safe home for the Duster.
Every car guy can appreciate a quality build. But every person can appreciate this story…
Planning a road trip this summer? Maybe you have a large family and need to tow a trailer, or maybe you’re seeking a small, easy-to-park vehicle that still excels in cargo and passenger space and fuel efficiency. These five vehicles from five different segments all make great cars with which to tame the open road.
Planning a trip that involves crossing the Rocky Mountains? The all-wheel drive Subaru Forester is a great choice for a family of four on vacation, its usable rear seat allowing enough leg and headroom for adults or teens. Add in 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and you’ll have plenty of room for your family’s gear if you pack carefully. The Forester’s 23 combined mpg does not lead the class, but in a comfortable, spacious AWD crossover it’s not poor, either. A bargain-basement price helps its cause.
Base Price: $20,595 Fuel Economy: 21 city/27 highway/23 combined mpg
The Honda Odyssey may not be the “coolest” vehicle around, but its winning blend of comfort, utility, a surefooted and comfortable ride, passenger and cargo space, and safety makes it a fine all-around family vehicle. The kids will love the Odyssey’s best-in-class rear seat entertainment system, featuring a beautiful 16.2-inch screen and an HDMI input for high-definition video and gaming. Parents will love its outstanding safety features, seating for up to 8 passengers (with optional equipment) and economy at the pump.
Base Price: $28,375 Fuel Economy: 19 city/28 highway/22 combined mpg
The hybrid Tahoe is a great answer for those who can’t get by with a smaller vehicle but still want to save money at the pump. Seating is for a legitimate 8 passengers (just don’t put Grandpa in the third-row seat), and cargo capacity is quite generous. With a 6,200-lb. towing capacity, the Tahoe Hybrid is plenty willing for boats or smaller trailers. You’ll likely see 30-40% better fuel efficiency than with a conventional gasoline large SUV. The only downside is the rather high base price.
Base Price: $51,970 Fuel Economy: 20 city/23 highway/21 combined mpg
There are many virtues that cause the Camry to be the nation’s best-selling car year after year. Its softly sprung, supple ride may not win over sports car enthusiasts, but it makes eating up hundreds of highway miles just that much more comfortable. The Camry also has enough passenger space in the back for taller adults, and a usable trunk. Among non-hybrids, its 28 combined mpg rating is outstanding. You could also buy two for the price of a Tahoe Hybrid, with money left over.
Base Price: $20,195 Fuel Economy: 25 city/35 highway/28 combined mpg
One of many quality choices for compact cars, the Focus is a favorite around here thanks to its great gas mileage, look-at-me styling and outstanding suite of interior technology. The hatchback can carry more of your stuff, so keep cargo space in mind when choosing a body style. The optional SYNC with MyFord Touch package excels at entertainment and getting you to your destination. Smaller families with younger children just don’t need a big SUV or crossover, and the Focus is a great alternative costing thousands less.
A friendly reminder from New Car Pricing Insider: driving drunk is always a bad decision. Calling a friend or shelling out a few dollars for a taxi is a small price to pay for the safety of you, your loved ones and other motorists. A man in California apparently failed to heed this warning, smashing his Lexus GS through a concrete wall and landing in a family’s backyard swimming pool.
Luckily there were no serious injuries, but the ruined Lexus had to be crane lifted out of the pool. It was not the first time a motorist had hit the wall, resident Janelle Diaz said. The driver was ok, but now faces stiff legal penalties under California’s no-nonsense DUI laws.
Give it to Nissan once again for knowing how to connect with sports car enthusiasts. Some wise soul in social media marketing had the fine idea of allowing Z-car fans to submit and vote on performance parts for a blistering new track build they’re calling Project 370Z. Not content with a meaningless online poll, Nissan is now building that very car.
Starting with a gleaming yellow 2012 Nissan 370Z, watch below as engineers go to work tearing down the front end and expertly fitting the best combination of performance parts that money can buy. At least according to Nissan’s Facebook faithful.
Here’s the performance upgrades fans picked for the 2012 370Z, Crowd-Sourced Edition.
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