Nissan GT-R: Function Unlike some other super
cars, the GT-R features a rather sizable trunk that can fit two sets of golf clubs and a
standard
carry-on roller suitcase. The lift-over is very high, though, and the rear transaxle and gas tank underneath can heat up your groceries.
Toyota RAV4
Performance The four-
wheel-drive system is typical for this "soft-roader" segment in that it
functions in a front-drive mode until slippage is detected, at which point it sends
power to whatever
wheels have the best grip. But the RAV4's system also allows (under 25
mph) the front and rear
power distribution to be locked at 50/50 (to optimize traction in slippery going) and features hill ascent and hill descent
controls (which minimize rollback when starting up a hill and keep
speed in check when going down). This makes the 2008
Toyota RAV4 a good
choice for mild off-roading, say, to a woodsy cabin or campground.
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2008
Aston Martin
Design/Fit and Finish The
interior of the
DBS is simply stunning and impeccably hand-built. Nearly every inch is swathed in leather, Alcantara and subtle accent trim of
aluminum,
carbon fiber and piano black. Although initial
DBS
models will only be available in all-black or black-gray
interior colors, our test
car featured the striking red hue that will be available later in 2008. Our
car also had the
optional piano black dash top trim, which is certainly a visual upgrade over the
standard alloy. Like all
Aston Martins, the
DBS is made to order, although there are fewer customization
choices available.
2008
Kia Rondo The idea behind the
Kia Rondo is to combine the practicality of an
SUV with the look and feel of a
car. And the Rondo does it, sort of, with seven
seats and a profile that is, in its own awkward way, more reminiscent of a
car than an
SUV. So how does the Rondo work in the real world? Read on.
BMW 328i Of course, the 328i's worth can't be measured by its
performance alone. Sport-
sedan shoppers want athletic driving dynamics in a practical package — and on the latter count the 328i comes up a little short. This is literally true of the back
seat, where headroom and legroom are tight for even moderately tall passengers. The
functionality of the
stereo and climate
controls also leaves something to be desired, and while
interior materials are generally top-notch, storage nooks for cell phones and such are few and far between.
Volkswagen Tiguan The Tiguan's smart, low-key sheet metal is clearly a product of the
Volkswagen gene pool. More specifically, it looks like a big brother to the Rabbit — not surprising, since the two share a platform. Things get even better once you climb inside. Soft-touch
surfaces are everywhere, and the
design aesthetic is one of muted elegance.
Audi A4 3.2 Quattro
Performance Ride and
handling vary from soft and comfortable to stiff and responsive thanks to
Audi's Drive Select. Three preconfigured settings adjust the suspension, throttle response, steering and
engine and
transmission mapping with the push of a button:
Comfort, which provides a smooth ride on long trips or over bumpy
roads; Dynamic, which is tight and firm for spirited cornering; and Auto, which continuously and reactively adjusts the A4's settings depending on the terrain and driving
style. Settings can be further customized in
Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) menu.
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