6 Best Car Models Released in 2012

The automotive industry has experienced a significant upswing in 2012. Several automakers have introduced striking new models, injecting new excitement for buyers. Here are the six best car models released in 2012

1. Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Toyota Camry Hybrid has been completely redesigned to attract younger buyers who wanted a sportier look. It also has a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine and an electric drive motor that provides 200 hp. The improved braking system helps the Hybrid achieve an astounding 41 mpg in combined driving and 10 mpg in city driving, according to Edmunds.com. The suspension has been improved for better handling. The Camry Hybrid is considered a great choice for a family car, Edmunds.com says.

2. Hyundai Sonata

New engines and revamped interior and exterior designs have brought this Korean model to the top of the pack. The Sonata features a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine or a 2.4-liter or 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 198 hp for an impressive 28 mpg combined (when used with the six-speed automatic transmission). A turbo engine is also available that produces 274 hp. The Sonata is great for those who regularly carry a lot of loot, with 16.4 cu. ft. of trunk space. Edmunds.com noted is attractive, upscale design and easy-to-use controls.

3. Toyota Highlander

This is a mid-sized SUV (sport utility vehicle) with a 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine cranking out 187 hp and six-speed automatic transmission (a 3.5 liter, six cylinder engine with 270-hp is also available with a five=speed automatic transmission and manual shift mode. The 2012 model features improved safety features and a flexible interior that can seat up to seven. The flip-up rear liftgate window allows quick access to the roomy cargo area.

4. Toyota Sienna

U.S. News ranked the 2012 Sienna the top among minivans. Buyers can choose between four- and six-cylinder 2.7 liter engines producing 187 hp; automatic transmission and gas mileage of 24 mpg highway and 19 mpg city. Reviewers praised the comfortable interior, roomy cargo areas and features like second-row lounge seating, split-screen DVD players and affordable price.

5. Ford Mustang

The legendary Mustang is back with the reintroduced Boss 302 and related models. The Boss features an enhanced engine the kicks out 444 hp; another model, geared toward entry0level buyers produces 305 hp and the GT model with its V-8 engine produces 412 hp. This year, the Mustang GT has adjustable effort settings for the power steering. In terms of styling, all 2012 models of the Mustang hold onto the excitement of the classic Mustang of days gone by. It’s still the ultimate driving experience.

6. Toyota RAV4

Edmunds.com calls this model spacious, comfortable and easy to drive, making it ideal for those who want a small-to-middle-sized crossover sport utility vehicle. IT features a V-6 engine, a child-sized third row seat; a. 2.5 liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 179 hp and a standard four-speed automatic transmission. The front-wheel drive version boasts fuel economy of 28 mpg highway 22 city, while the all-wheel drive version boasts 27 mpg highway/21 mpg city. This year, the RAV4 introduces touch screen audio interface and Entune suite Internet streaming.

7. Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee

This year's Jeep Grand Cherokee has been praised for its excellent on- and off-road performance, good safety scores and well-designed interior. It features a3.6-liter V6 good for 290 hp and an automatic five-speed transmission for estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg highway/16 city and 19 mpg combined for the four-wheel drive version. The interior is roomier than previous versions and overall it drives more comfortably, making it a top choice among mid-sized sport utility vehicles (SUVs). Edmunds.com notes that the Jeep Grand Cherokee has maintained its effective off-road handling as well, making it a fun vehicle to drive in rough terrain.

There you have it, the best of the best in the US auto industry in 2012.

Author Bio:
Sandra Weinberg, is a professional writer and specializes in Automotives niche.

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2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque coupe

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque coupe Dynamic

Base Price: $44,995

As-Tested Price: $58,745

Drivetrain: a pair of.0-liter turbocharged I4; AWD, six-speed automatic

Output: 240 horsepower @ five,500 rpm, 251 lb-ft @ one,750 rpm

Curb Weight: three,902 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA City/Highway/Combined): 18/28/21 mpg

AW discovered Fuel Economy: eighteen.4 mpg

Options: Dynamic Premium package together with black grille, side vents, mirror caps, spoiler extension and waist finisher, sports exhaust tips, rear skid plate, oxford-leather handwheel, perforated animal skin seat center panels, door panels with distinction handicraft, bright aluminium pedal finishers, passive entry, surround camera system, HDD navigation, intuitive voice management, 825-watt Meridian surround system with seventeen speakers, chemical element headlamps with AFS, AHBA, blind-spot observation ($7,900); 20-inch shadow chrome alloy wheels ($2,500); climate comfort pack together with heated front seats, windshield, handwheel and washer jets ($1,000); special exterior paint ($950); Sirius satellite radio and HD radio ($750); distinction black roof ($650)

I really enjoyed a weekend within the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque coupe. It actually sounds like associate degree SUV and a auto, that may be a laborious exploit to accomplish. It attracts attention for its sharp style, that appears like a electrical device or a toy -- however during a great way. It strikes a chord in my memory of a real automobile show construct come back to life. I actually have to convey props to the stylists for taking risks associate degreed actuation off an attention-getting execution with spectacular lights, curvy wheel wells and one amongst the foremost angulate rooflines within the trade. That, however, ends up in a number of the faults of this vehicle. The roof is thus raked it inhibits visibility to the rear, creating the backup camera a necessity. i would not amendment it, however it's one amongst the occasional foibles of spectacular style. The attractive window runs the length of the roof, and it's awe-inspiring.

The powertrain is adequate, although not exalting. The force comes on quickly. But, a number of the shifting makes for an ungainly expertise, particularly once driving around city. Between 2,000 rev and four,000 rpm, the engine stretches out, power unit impending stronger. It is fine, and therefore the enthusiast driver can get wont to it; traditional passengers are going to be flung forward and back because the turbo and force work their magic.

There's adequate area within the enclosure, and therefore the cabin is nicely appointed. The two-tone materials with animal skin mesh and therefore the sleek system create a snug driving atmosphere. It looked and felt spectacular on nearly each surface.

The steering is OK. I did not love it initially, preferring a little additional response, however because the weekend went on I got wont to it, and it's good. i might sort of a sport setting to quicken response.

The chassis is nicely mark, and therefore the ride height is elevated, creating for associate degree expertise Americans can like. All-wheel drive is OK, however most likely not necessary for what several can use this machine for in daily duty.

Like most of the people within the workplace, I actually have mixed feelings regarding the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque coupe. As a variety Rover, the inside is unsatisfactory in terms of beauty and build quality and therefore the like. additionally as noted on top of, if you have got children, the auto version is impractical.

But there is some great things here, too, significantly if one appearance at the Evoque -- as I tend to -- as a go-anywhere do-anything unrestricted hot(ish) hatch for one person or empty nesters. checked out that manner, it's pretty cool.

The styling to my eye is terrific. and that i was stunned at the response I got last night: a bloke force up next to Pine Tree State at a lightweight and asked all types of queries. He'd ne'er seen one before. Nor had my neighbor. The thing's been out for what, a year? Why do not individuals fathom it?

I like the manner it drives, principally -- taut and semi-sporty.

Power? it is not quick specifically, however i would say there is some fun to be had once the turbo gets with the program; although yea, there's some lag. It quite strikes a chord in my memory of a Volkswagen GTI from a couple of generations agone.

As associate degree previous married beau with 3 kids: This automobile extremely is not on behalf of me. and that is dead OK. however like I same, if I were single . . .

Scion FR-S

Producing two hundred power unit from a direct-injected a pair of.0-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine and mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, the FR-S is one in every of the best rear-wheel drive economy sports cars of uncomparable.

Starting at around $24,000, the performance to cost quantitative relation of the FR-S is unexampled not solely within the fashionable automotive market however within the historical automotive market moreover.

Developed by Subaru however got by Toyota, the FR-S additionally competes with a near-twin vehicle here within the states: the Subaru BRZ.

The FR-S is tiny, light, sensible trying, and cheap. With a well crafted however easy interior, the FR-S provides enough area for 2 adult passengers despite the fact that it's technically a four-seater and a few baggage within the trunk.

While two hundred power unit doesn't seem to be abundant lately in an exceedingly sports automobile, the FR-S is high-revving auto that's desperate to please. What it lacks in grunt it simply makes up for with its cornering capabilities. The FR-S comes from the plant with identical tires because the European Prius. This may build some scoff however it's truly a superb alternative. The tires offer enough grip to stay the FR-S planted to the road, however additionally the additional benefit of being low cost to interchange.

As for why we have a tendency to selected the FR-S over its brother the BRZ, we have a tendency to felt the altered suspension setup of the BRZ accessorial with its satellite navigation unit and exaggerated sticker value created the FR-S the apparent winner. The FR-S is stiffer, lighter, and cheaper than the BRZ, and as a corner taming economy sports automobile, it gets our nod.

Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCI

This is the all-new, second-generation Kuga, Ford's mid-size SUV. As before, it's supported Focus underpinnings, however the massive news is that it replaces each Europe's Kuga and also the utterly completely different and long-established Escape SUV within the United States of America thence it's the Escape within the United States of America. It's a troublesome equalization act: the Escape incorporates a name as a durable, direct, sensible SUV. The Kuga is a lot of of a classy crossover.

It's a great deal a logo of Ford's One Ford global-car policy: the platform is built in Cologne, the powertrain in Dagenham and also the higher body and interior in port. It'll be in-built urban center, America, and Valencia, Spain.

There square measure a selection of 2 one.6-litre turbocharged Ecoboost petrols with 148bhp or 177bhp, each putt out a similar 177lb linear unit and 2 a pair of.0-litre turbodiesels with 138bhp/236lb linear unit and 161bhp/251lb linear unit.

The base gasolene will solely be had in front-wheel drive type with a manual gear case, whereas the 177bhp model is had solely with all-wheel drive and also the Powershift machine. The 138bhp diesel, meanwhile, is had in front- or all-wheel, however solely with the manual transmission, whereas the range-topping TDI will have either gear case, however four-wheeled drive solely.

There's additionally the same old line-up of Zetec, metal and metal X trim levels. costs vary from £20,895 for a one48bhp 1.6 Ecoboost Zetec to £29,795 for a 161bhp a pair of.0 TDCI.

We're driving a 161bhp a pair of.0TDCI metal all-wheel drive manual, yours for £25,545.

It's good, if usually quotidian. the foremost powerful diesel is entirely flat below 1500rpm, however keep it higher than that level and also the force zings you on on a wave of boost that doesn't stop till 4000rpm. this can be usually all well and sensible, however it will feel perceptibly unpunctual on inclines.

The steering is Ford's acquainted electrically motor-assisted set-up, that is fast and meatily weighted and absolutely pleasant to use, however if something it's too springily desperate to self-centre.

You sit high and also the chassis is sort of soft that doesn't lend a very gaudy feel, however the Kuga is truly quite in a position handler: the compliance means that it soaks up bumps while not turning into upset over rougher tarmac, and the four-wheeled drive system is pretty wonderful it's Ford's own hardware and package, and it's as if the tall ride height and soft chassis is doing its best to disguise the brilliance of this method. It subtly snuffs out the onset of understeer with one thing a lot of neutral, which means cornering speeds is indecently high, and it quickly juggles force between the axles, which means its way quicker acting, a lot of reactive and a lot of participating to drive than, say, a Haldex system. It'd be fascinating to mix this with, say, a Focus RS.

Really, though, this can be a awfully comfort-oriented automobile, with spectacular levels of refinement.

It is. The seats square measure cozy part-leather with grippy material centres in our Titanium-spec model and there's lots of headroom all spherical, and there's rather more legroom within the back than you'll realize in a very Focus one thing that the rigorously crenated seatbacks solely exaggerate. The rear-seat passengers will recline their seats a trifle with a pull on a handle, whereas a similar handles permit the 40/60 split seats to fold flat in a rapid. There are lots of cupholders and cubbyholes, and also the door cards square measure sharply carved too, giving bigger room.

The new automobile is 81mm longer than the first-gen Kuga, however it's additionally 4mm narrower and 8mm lower. Those reclining seats mean there's a spread for the seats-up bags area instead of a collection range, however it currently stands at 438-481 litres versus the previous 410 litres.

However, there's no seven-seat possibility, as you'll realize in Ford's Grand C-Max or, indeed, Nissan's rival Qashqai +2, therefore you're primarily handling a a lot of spacious Focus, instead of one thing that genuinely offers up a lot of creative ways that to use a similar quite area.

The Kuga gets keyless access, and you'll be able to open and shut the tailgate by waving your foot below the bumper a bit like you'll be able to on the Merc FTO and BMW 3-series. It's simply a shame it takes see you later to really open which the load sill is fairly high.

The Kuga may be a sensible, refined automobile, however one that struggles to square out compared with the already excellent opposition. it's sensible, however obscurity close to pretty much as good as a (far a lot of expensive) vary Rover Evoque or maybe, whisper it, a (cheaper) Kia Sportage, and it doesn't have the desirability of either the Rangey or the VW Tiguan. It's sensible to drive, however terribly comfort-focussed: the Evoque is much a lot of dynamic.

The Kuga doesn't extremely place a foot wrong, however nor will it do something that creates you're feeling compelled to shop for it. It's a solid, practical, snug automobile that ought to work simply into family duties, however one which will do therefore while not ever dazzling you with its brilliance.

Bullet Proof New Honda Accord

FAST FACTS
Model: 2013 Accord Touring V6.
Exterior color: White Orchid.
Interior color: Ivory.
Engine: 3.5-liter, six cylinder.
Horsepower: 278.
Transmission: six-speed automatic.
Fuel economy: 34 mpg highway, 21 mpg city.
Dealer: Economy Honda.
Price (as tested): $34,220.

Most car companies worry about what a car looks like on the outside, hoping to lure buyers with love at first sight.

Honda, to its credit, cares more about your view of the world from the inside of its vehicles looking out. It's one of the many reasons why Accord owners are among the most brand-loyal in the world.

Big windows are among the many utilitarian virtues of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord sedan, which went on sale last week. (An Accord coupe will arrive next month.) Frankly, the new, airy Accord makes the cockpits of some of its competitors look like tank turrets.

If that's not enough, our test Accord, in top-of-the-line Touring trim, includes a slick lane-change camera in the right side-view mirror that allows you to merge right in freeway traffic without even turning your head to check the blind spot.

Now, that's a safety option you can use every day.

The first Accord hit the road in 1976, the year I graduated high school. Ever since, it has been the default family sedan for millions of people who wanted a buttoned-down, bullet-proof ride with a smidgen of sporttiness. (The Toyota Camry has filled the same niche for buyers who value a bit more comfort. Now Honda is on the trail of those buyers, too.)

By Mark Kennedy

2012 Acura MDX

NEWS GREG MIGLIORE: The 2012 Acura MDX is a classy SUV with respectable power and a bit of space inside. Using it for a commuter lap, I unfortunately didn't make full use of its potential, but I'll leave that to members of the staff with offspring of the two- and four-legged variety.

I was impressed with the six-cylinder engine. It didn't strike me until I merged a few lanes over and jabbed the throttle, producing a pleasing sound and decent acceleration as I trailed in the wake of a Chevy Camaro convertible. I played with the paddles a bit, too. They were fun, amusing for a good-sized crossover, but not exactly Formula One-inspired. They're just something to spice up the drive into work and summon the revs a bit more purposefully on the expressway.

The cabin of the MDX is impressive in appearance and execution. This sampler came in stately black inside, and the steering wheel and door panels were smart. The atmosphere was quiet and serene, with just a bit of wind and exterior noise getting in. The negative? I'm not a fan of the center stack, which has way too many buttons and is confusing. It's hard to get used to in a short period and not easy to operate at a glance. MIT-inspired controls are not my preference at expressway speeds.

ROAD TEST JONATHAN WONG: Even with a new MDX expected to appear sometime next year, the current model is still my favorite three-row SUV. With our 2008 MDX long-termer, we piled more than 30,000 miles onto it, it never missed a day of service because of mechanical issue and the cabin held up remarkably well.

I continue to believe that this V6 and six-speed automatic transmission combination is one of (if not the) smoothest drivetrain combination in the SUV class. When you light-foot it around town, it's quiet, with the transmission performing seamless shifts. And like Greg mentioned, it has a surprisingly nice exhaust note during wide-open throttle to unleash decent power for merging onto the expressway and passing slower traffic.

The magnetic suspension is cushy in comfort mode for a soft ride around town and more roll around corners, but tightens in sport mode. Of course, a high-riding 4,600-pound vehicle isn't going to take a corner like a sports car, but all things considered, it can round an expressway entrance ramp quite well. Steering has some weight tuned and responds well to inputs. Brakes feature good bite and slow things down without drama.

I suppose the best compliment you can give a large vehicle is that it drives smaller than it is. Maneuvering around parking lots is done with ease, and the backup camera is handy. I also think Acura's blind-spot warning displays are the best in the business, with the warning inside the cabin instead of outside on the mirror itself or on the side of the mirror housing like Audi's is.

Complaints about the MDX's button-laden center stack are expected, but I prefer buttons over having the majority of functions being controlled by an iDrive-like knob. It's kind of like your home entertainment remote control that has a billion buttons on it, but you eventually get used to it and pick up on how to control the cable box, DVR, DVD player, speaker system and TV. It's the same thing with the MDX's center stack you'll get acclimated to it and will be a pro at working through it before long.

The rest of the interior is nice, with quality materials, good-looking wood trim, soft leathers and one of the most comfortable front bucket seats you'll find in a luxury SUV.

As for complaints, I do have one. The navigation map in Acura vehicles is really outdated. While Audi has Google Maps images, Acura is still slogging along with the same beige background image that's in the Wong family's 2004 MDX. Kind of disappointing, but I'm sure updates are in the works--at least I hope they are.

2012 Acura MDX Advance with Entertainment Package
Base Price: $55,450
As-Tested Price: $55,450
Drivetrain: 3.7-liter V6; AWD, six-speed automatic
Output: 300 hp @ 6,300 rpm, 270 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
Curb Weight: 4,627 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 18/19.6 mpg
Options: None
For more information: Check out the 2012 Acura MDX Advance with Entertainment Package at shopautoweek.com

2012 SLP GMC Sierra 1500 4WD Crew Cab SLT

After four days in this truck I began to feel something of an appreciation for how Genghis Khan must have felt as he charged into unsuspecting villages.

The 450 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque were intoxicating in this pickup, and the whine of the supercharger was a quick way to bring a smile to my face.

While docile under normal driving conditions, when dipping into the WEP War Emergency Power of the supercharger, the truck became even more enjoyable.

While the truck is no slouch, given its weight, the additional height from the off-road suspension and its oversize wheels, it feels much faster than a normal Sierra, but not as insanely quick as one would hope with the additional power of forced induction.

The TVS 1900 supercharger kit for the 5.3-liter gives you instant power when you tromp on the loud pedal. And loud it is, because with the addition of SLP exhaust tips, the truck has a burble and growl that makes a great addition to something with a high ride height and badges that say "supercharged" on the door.

Looking under the hood you can tell that this is no stock truck, despite being able to order the kit and products from the dealer without impacting the warranty.

But, the underhood finish of the kit leaves something to be desired. It looks both at home and not quite right. The kit would look better with a little less chrome and more flat accents; the shiny SLP air tube under the hood looks out of place.

The interior was the biggest letdown. Much to my surprise, the Katzkin interior treatment not only mixed two colors you shouldn't mix black and brown but it made it appear that the truck had far more miles on it than it actually did.

Judging from the play in the fabric and finish, I would have thought 30,000 miles had been ridden in the seats. Much to my horror, there were just more than 500 miles on the odometer when I grabbed the keys. I would have preferred the money be kept under the hood and the interior upholstery left stock.

The crew cab provided ample interior space for both front and rear passengers and for hauling groceries.

As I was in the process of moving, I filled the bed with my large items and hauled them to my new place.

The added height from the off-road suspension option worked well for setting and picking items up when loading and unloading.

Overall the truck is a lot of fun and useful if big trucks with big power tickle your fancy. The biggest problem I had over my time with it was keeping my foot out of the accelerator. While I was no fan of the interior appointments, I'll overlook it for the sound of the supercharger and the juvenile smile I often had.

By: David Arnouts

Dodge Charger 1966

This bargain priced 1966 double black Charger is a freshly restored big block, 4-speed street warrior that will get a ton of respect and appreciation anywhere you show it and provide endless entertainment behind the wheel!

The beneficiary of a frame off restoration that was completed just last year, this fully detailed 1966 Charger's refurbished panels and brand new all-business black paint are as crisp as a fall morning at the local drag strip. During the extensive restoration, correct Chrysler code B Black was laid down over an exceptionally straight body that includes new high quality quarter panels and front fenders. Once the deep basecoat/clearcoat paint was dry and buffed to a glossy mirror-like shine, the cars original and surprisingly straight stainless trim was buffed to an excellent shine and reinstalled in its rightful place. The result is one spectacular show and go piece that is so much fun to drive and show off, you'll almost feel guilty.

Best known for its clean and muscular second generation, the Charger isn't often associated with the luxury car level of trim that this first year '66 model has. And while Detroit as a whole was trending away from ,decked out' cars, the stainless on this Charger's clean black body gives it a powerful appearance that simply can't be matched by the modernist designs that would define the late 60s. Up front, a tough looking pot metal 'electric shaver' grille houses an old school Dodge Fratzog emblem and four fully rotating headlights above a showroom fresh front bumper. Behind that grille, new glass is bordered by excellent looking chrome side mirrors and straight stainless drip rails that completely outline the cars pillarless hardtop greenhouse. At the sides of the car, stainless trim traces increasingly prominent fender lines that run parallel to pristine rocker trim and straight stainless wheel trim. At the top of the sculpted rear fenders, familiar "Charger" scripts sit just behind the cars side windows, and on the front fenders chrome "383 4 barrel" emblems look right at home. At the back of the car, a second Fratzog emblem is centered above a body width six lamp taillight that features bold chrome "Charger" lettering and a second chrome bumper that incorporates vertical reverse lights.

Lift this Charger's black hood and you'll find a correct 383 cubic inch warranty block that was fully rebuilt during the cars restoration. At the top of the motor, a satin black air cleaner with a correct Mopar decal sends air into a Carter Competition Series carburetor that's fueled through stainless fuel lines. Below that carburetor, the big block engine wears a fresh coat of correct Chrysler turquoise and a new coil and distributor shoot fire to the cylinders through fresh Mopar wires. At the sides of the block, factory replacement exhaust manifolds send spent gases into a throaty dual exhaust system, and in front of the block there's a fresh 26 inch radiator with a factory clutch fan. The correct Chrysler code B Black engine bay is exceptionally clean and has been nicely detailed with new Mopar V-belts, correct hoses and clamps, a reproduction Mopar battery, and a fresh washer fluid container. This is definitely an engine compartment you'll want to show off every time you park the car, and if you want to make the car even more authentic, the original carburetor and distributor are included in the sale.

Behind that legendary Chrysler engine you'll find an A833 4-speed manual transmission that sends power to a familiar 8.75 inch rear end. Holding that super reliable drivetrain in place is a correct front torsion bar and rear leaf suspension that benefited from a slew of new parts and hardware during the restoration. At the corners of that suspension, correct four wheel drum brakes provide firm stopping, and at the front of that suspension, factory correct power steering helps make turning easier and more precise. Exhaust is handled by an aluminized true dual system that provides an aggressive tone, but isn't overbearing, there are fresh bushings all around, and new stainless fuel and brake lines run from both a new fuel tank and a new brake reservoir. As long as you're under there looking around, you'll notice that the floorpans were fully undercoated during the restoration and the suspension components were obviously stripped and repainted. And while the bottom of this Charger isn't dressed for concours appearance, it is nice enough that you'll certainly be pointing out to your friends how good it looks up on a lift. Oh, and don't forget to point out the cool set of 14 inch Hurst wheels that wear excellent 235/60 BF Goodrich T/A radials!

The best part of first generation Chargers is their spectacular cockpits; just look at that excellent full length console in this cars correct P4X interior! Not only does it appear to be ripped straight out of a Chrysler show car, it creates a super rare four bucket sedan layout that makes you instantly think of luxury cars. At the front of the console a continuous motion clock sits at the base of the cars 4-speed shifter and at the rear of the console a folding arm rest provides added cargo room. At the sides of the console, great looking light stitched seats wear reproduction covers in the front and original covers in the back. Below the console, new black carpet shows no sign of wear or usage, and above the seats, a fresh headliner sits holds light stitched sun visors. In front of the driver, electroluminescent gauges that were WAY ahead of their time include a standard tachometer and the correct wood rimmed steering wheel perfectly complements the cars silver trim. At the sides of the seats, new silver trimmed Charger exclusive door panels feature new chrome bits, correct "Charger" emblems and switches for the cars power windows. Behind the cockpit, the cars completely restored trunk features a collapsible divider for increased cargo space. This Chargers interior is fully restored and 100% complete; the owner is even throwing in an additional Chrysler AM radio just in case anything happens to the one mounted in this Chargers dash.

There is considerable documentation that goes along with this car. We have a copy of the current owners 1972 invoice from Stetler Auto Company; yes, he has owned the car for almost 40 years. We have a CD full of restoration photos and a stack of restoration receipts. We have a 1966 Charger brochure, original service manuals and paperwork for the transmission and wheels. And finally, we have a 1966 copy of Motor Trend magazine that features the Charger on its cover.

The black ones always go the quickest (naturally; who doesn't love a bad ass all black Charger?) and I don't expect this correct black on black '66 383 car will prove an exception to that rule; especially when you consider its incredible $40K price tag. That's the bargain of the century! I'm urging you not to become the next, "Sorry, it's sold," phone call we get because this super clean, big block 4-speed black on black Charger certainly won't last long. Call now!

More info:
5527 Lakeview Road, Charlotte, NC 28269
Phone: 704.596.5211 Fax: 704.596.5980

Subaru's new BRZ

You might think you know every last detail about the BRZ. Between Subaru and Toyota, there's been a blizzard of multimedia. Enough concept cars, prototype sneak previews and track tests to broach your download limits.

But you don't know it all. Because this is a road car, and here we are for the first time on the actual road.

So does it live up to the hype? Of course not. Unless it had been styled by da Vinci and engineered by Brunel - and for good measure had Newton quietly bent the laws of mechanics in its favour - it'd never have been as good as they said it would be.

A quick recap. It's a low-built, short-overhang, long-wheelbase rear-drive coupe. But the centre of mass is even lower than everyone else's cars of that type, because it has a flat-four engine. And actually the flat-four is even lower and far further back than with other Subarus, because (since it's RWD-only) there are no front driveshafts or diff in the way. There's a limited-slip diff. It uses comparatively narrow tyres, so its 200bhp is enough.

The whole thing is a recipe for agility, low roll, tossable handling and general chicanery.

And so it turns out. The first few mountain hairpins or wet roundabouts verify that pivoting into a corner is the most natural feeling in the world. The front wheels are always happy to carve the exact track you request. Then you can poke the back end out and feel the hero. And unlike some rear-drivers, the BRZ's magical balance and progression means it's a cinch to gather up again. The low roll makes it marvellously tidy through S-bends.

But a road car needs more from its suspension and steering than a track car does. The steering needs to be direct and progressive, so you can pour the car into an uneven or unknown bend. The springs need to absorb bumps and keep the tyres evenly weighted so you don't hop about.

And the BRZ is brilliant there too. All the steering lacks is a bit more feel, to tell you how much grip the tyres have left. But in this car more than in most, you don't miss that because the rest of the car's reactions are so accurate and faithful. You get the information from other sources.

The 200bhp two-litre is enough engine. Just. In this age of turbos, it does seem very light on torque between 3000 and 4000rpm. You have to revise your whole style of driving. Change down. And again. Rev its little spuds off, make sure you keep getting flashed by shift-up light as you zero in on 7500. That way happiness lies. For a flat-four, it doesn't sound as charismatic as it might, but it's always smooth enough that there's no pain in sticking with those epic revs.

By: Paul Horrell