July 19, 2011

Chicago highway mileage test

Hybrid buyers are generally looking for high mileage over all else unless they're shopping in the luxury space. Still, the 2011 Lexus CT 200h is rated at an impressive 42 mpg for combined city/highway driving. Cars.com tested the CT 200h along with the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro convertible and 2011...

February 22, 2013

What does this button do?

Cars.com reviews a lot of new cars, mostly with the same volume knobs, hood releases and temperature settings. But sometimes the reviewers get in a car and wonder, "What the heck does this do?" Here we chronicle their ongoing quest to decipher dashboard hieroglyphics. Have you ever found mystery controls on a car? Leave your comments below. —Joe Bruzek, Cars.com

June 1, 2011

Small cars: Loaded but affordable

Cars.com estimated the cost of a dozen new small cars by pricing them with power windows, air conditioning, electronic stability control and other typical extras, then adding the cost of a year's worth of gas: 15,000 miles of city and highway travel at $3.96 per gallon. The average worked out to $18,918 — $16,885 for the car and $2,033 for gas. Here are the cars and where they stood on the affordability scale. Get the full story: What's the most affordable small car?

Parents choose best minivan

Five experts, all parents, and a family of five tested six new or redesigned minivans on the road, with car seats and kids, to see which one was truly the ultimate minivan. Get the full story: Cars.com minivan buying guide

May 20, 2011

Best 2011 hybrid cars for the money

Hybrids usually get better gas mileage than conventional cars, but they also cost more — usually a lot more. To determine if the added cost is worthwhile, we divide the combined city/highway mpg by the base MSRP, then multiply by 1,000. (This formula can be applied to any vehicle.) A high mpg rating and low price yield a high efficiency-cost rating.

Our results suggest that the soundest reason to buy a hybrid is to burn less fuel, not to save money in the long run, but some hybrids do this better than others. Rather than list the most miserly small hybrids, we present the highest-ranked hybrid models of their size and type. — Joe Wiesenfelder, Cars.com

Worst hybrid cars for the money

Cheapest SUVs on the market

Here is a list of SUVs under $21,000. Some, such as the SX4 and Honda Element, are more or less four-door hatchbacks with all-wheel drive (optional on the Element), while crossovers like the Patriot and Mazda Tribute look more like a traditional SUV. For a traditional truck-based SUV, you'll have to...

Photos: The ultimate city car

You know all too well what it's like to shoehorn yourself into a tight parallel-parking spot, squeeze between Dumpsters and delivery trucks, or witness your bumpers accrue a patchwork of dimples. No wonder State Farm Insurance reports that a driver living in central Illinois would pay 30 percent...

Photos: Cars women like

Gals like Minis and Kias while guys lean to Porsches and trucks. That's the finding of a TrueCar.com analysis of gender differences in car buying. The brand with the highest percentage of retail sales to females in 2010 was Mini, 47.9%, followed by Kia, 46.8%, and Honda, 46%.

Here are the...

Concept cars: New York Auto Show winners & losers

Few concept cars debuted at the New York auto show, but editors Mike Hanley, David Thomas, Kelsey Mays and Joe Wiesenfelder trekked the show floor to see them up close, and give them a thumbs up or down. More photos: 2011 New York Auto Show winners & losers ... More from the New York Auto Show

Winners & losers: 2011 New York Auto Show

The New York International Auto Show was squarely focused on fuel-efficient small cars — and rightly so, with gas prices steadily on the rise. Automakers didn't completely forget about horsepower, though, as the show saw a few new high-powered models. Cars.com editors Mike Hanley, Kelsey Mays, David Thomas and Joe Wiesenfelder pick their favorites from the show, and the flops. More from the New York Auto Show: , 2103 Ford Taurus, 2013 Chevy Malibu, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK, 2012 VW Beetle.

2013 Ford Taurus up close

Car shoppers will have to wait until 2012 before they can buy the 2013 model revealed this week, which features a slate of upgrades. Taurus will continue to be built in Chicago. Cars.com reviewers Mike Hanley and David Thomas get a first look at the New York Auto Show. Related: 2012 VW Beetle up close, 2013 Chevy Malibu first look, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK up close

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK: Up close

The New York auto show marks the roadster's official stateside introduction. At a Manhattan dealership's unveiling of the A-Class concept, Cars.com's Kelsey Mays checked out a top-down SLK. Related: 2012 VW Beetle up close, 2013 Chevy Malibu first look

2013 Chevy Malibu: First look

The redesigned 2013 Malibu was previewed at the New York Auto Show. It's a bit more daring inside, and it gains a new four-cylinder engine. Look for it to arrive early in 2012. Pricing hasn't been announced. Related: 2012 VW Beetle up close, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK up close—Mike Hanley, Cars.com

2012 VW Beetle: Up close

The new 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (don't call it the New Beetle) marks only the third generation for a car that's more than 50 years old. Related: 2013 Chevy Malibu first look, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK up close —Patrick Olsen and David Thomas, Cars.com

The best SUVs for $29,000

Cars.com tested nine of the most popular sport-utility vehicles for the best combination of ride, room, family-friendly features and handling. Video: $29,000 SUV Shootout
Get the full story: The $29,000 SUV Shootout

8:01 AM PDT, March 21, 2013

LoJack's most-stolen cars

LoJack Corp., which manufactures the Lojack Stolen Vehicle Recovery System, today released its fourth annual vehicle-theft recovery report based on statistics from 28 states.

Worst hybrid cars for the money

Divide the combined EPA mileage estimate by its Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: The best finisher for 2011 is the Honda Insight, according to Cars.com's math. What was at the other end? Mostly luxury cars, and that's what you're really paying for.

Fast moves off car dealer lots

All sorts of vehicles were in short supply last month, from hybrid hatchbacks to minivans to large SUVs to a rare convertible. Here is the Cars.com list of popular models that sold in the shortest time, with the average number of days from when they they arrive on the lot until the final paperwork...

Photos: Insurer's best car values for 2011

USAA, an insurance company that serves active and retired military families, has created a list of Best Values in 16 vehicle segments. Its picks don't take driving into account. Instead, USAA focuses on affordability, lifetime costs, depreciation and safety — all characteristics that...

Road test: Three plug-in cars

Cars.com editor Joe Wiesenfelder compares the hands-on experience, mileage and cost results of the Nissan Leaf (a simple battery-electric car), Chevrolet Volt (an electric with a gas-powered range extender) and the Prius Plug-In (a regular Prius that can be plugged in and topped off before you drive, thanks to a higher-capacity lithium-ion battery pack). Get the full story: Three Plug-Ins Head To Head

Photos: Best high-mileage cars for 2011

Gas prices have risen faster than any time in history. If you're shopping for a new car and want something that will cut down your trips to the pump, here are Cars.com's favorite cars that achieve 35 mpg or higher on the highway.

Pictures: 2011 Hyundai Elantra

Best-selling cars of 2010

Trucks and SUVs were back in the driver's seat for 2010. The Toyota Corolla and Camry were the only two cars on the list to see sales decline in what was an otherwise booming 2010. The Chevy Silverado did well enough to retake its No. 2 spot from the Camry.    

Test Drive: 2011 BMW 5 Series car review

A new level of comfort and fuel efficiency broadens the appeal of the redesigned BMW 5 Series sports sedan, which competes with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and Infiniti M. Starting from $44,550, the 528 has a rated mileage of 22 mpg city and 32 highway. The turbocharged 535i is $58,275 as tested. Get the full story in Joe Wiesenfelder's Cars.com review. More photos: First look at BMW 5 Series

2011 Hyundai Elantra photos

The 2011 Hyundai Elantra delivers a compelling blend of ride comfort and handling poise, says Cars.com reviewer Mike Hanley. It's available at Hyundai dealerships now, starting at $14,830-$19,980. 2011 Hyundai Elantra details

First Drive: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon

The 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon is a sports car cleverly disguised as a "practical" family hauler SUV. Auto writer Mike Levine and photographer Drew Phillips produced this review for Cars.com. 2011 Cadillac CTS details

Top 10 subcompact cars: November 2010

Automakers quickly turned to small cars when gas hit $4 a gallon. Beefier compact cars have proved more popular, but fuel-sipping subcompacts remain the value leaders for 2011. Top-selling subcompacts may not be in the 40-mpg elite, but the sticker prices are persuasive. Here are the most popular in...

Up Close: 2011 Chevy Camaro convertible

David Thomas reports from the floor of the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. More on Cars.com

First Drive: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG review & photos

Mercedes re-enters the supercar market with the SLS AMG. The $183,000 starting price includes gull-wing doors and a 563-horsepower, 6.3-liter V-8 engine. Competitors include the Bentley Continental GT and Lamborghini Gallardo. Read a review and watch video., or view a comparison with the classic 1955 Mercedes 300 SL.

First Drive: 2011 Nissan Leaf photos

When you see Nissan's plug-in electric car, you know it. The Leaf is not an electrified version of a gas car, it's a model all its own, like the Prius. Read Joe Wiesenfelder's Cars.com review: Why go electric? Nissan Leaf makes its case

Photos: 2011 Chevrolet Volt

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt doesn't consume a drop of gas or exhale an ounce of exhaust into the air — but not always. Jim Mateja reviews the 2011 Chevrolet Volt.

First Drive: 2011 Hyundai Sonata Turbo photos

By using a turbo engine, Hyundai has made the Sonata as much fun to drive as the competition, but it gets better mileage, and it's cheaper. Read the Cars.com review and the Tribune Newspapers review of the standard 4-cylinder Sonata.

First look: 2011 Dodge Charger

• Competes with: Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon.
• Looks like: Dodge isn't done with retro..
• Drivetrain: 3.6-liter V-6, 5.7-liter V-8, rear or all-wheel drive.
• Hits dealerships: End of 2010.

2011 Subaru Outback photos

Outback boasts competitive mileage and a lower starting price than much of the front-drive competition, starting at $23,195 to $31,495. from Cars.com editor Kelsey Mays.

First look: 2011 Kia Optima review & photos

The 2011 Kia Optima has the same potential to light up the sales charts as its sibling, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, according to Cars.com editor Kelsey Mays. Read the complete review.

Photos: New & intriguing 2011 cars

Engineers and designers have been busily working on some new and intriguing offerings. Here are some worth watching. More

2011 hybrid cars go mainstream

Automakers are introducing more hybrids — including some that are mid-size. We are also witnessing a tiny break with one tradition: Charging more for a hybrid. Read the complete story.

Small and new: Fuel-sipping cars

This year consumers have more high-mileage automotive choices than ever. By one count, nearly 200 models get at least 30 miles per gallon. Read the complete story.

Photos: 2011 Porsche Cayenne review

In its first full redesign since the crossover model's 2003 debut, the 2011 Porsche Cayenne is quicker, larger, roomier, more efficient and richer than the previous version. Cars.com senior editor Joe Wiesenfelder says it's still very much a Porsche. Full review | Caynene S Hybrid review | Prices & specs at Cars.com

Photos: 2011 Toyota Avalon review

Cars.com editor Mike Hanley sees a lot to like in this modern reincarnation of the classic American car: It's big and comfortable, effortless to drive and luxurious. Has Toyota figured out how to prevent the floaty feeling of a big touring vehicle? Read the complete review.

Photos: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

The convertible is the newest member of the redesigned E-Class family, joining the sedan and coupe that debuted last year. Cars.com editor Mike Hanley calls the droptop the Swiss bank account of convertibles: discreet but highly appealing. Read the complete review.

First look: 2011 Nissan Murano

The upgraded 2011 Nissan Murano goes on sale in mid-October. It doesn't get the 3.7-liter V-6 upgrade to put it on par with the 370Z or the Infiniti G series. But its 3.5-liter V-6 with 260 horsepower still makes it one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs Cars.com has tested. Find more photos on the Cars.com blog. — David Thomas, Cars.com

2011 Kia Sorento photos

The updated Kia Sorento takes on both compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and larger crossovers like the Ford Edge. Cars.com senior editor David Thomas.says shoppers who need severe-weather capability will like its affordability (starting from $19,995), standard features and nice interior. Read the complete review.

Test Drive: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze photos

The Chevy Cruze is is a more-than-worthy competitor to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, according to Cars.com senior editor Joe Wiesenfelder. The compact car has a base sticker price of $16,275, but Wiesenfelder says it feels more expensive. Read his complete review.

8:56 AM PDT, October 15, 2012

Photos: 2011 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

For 2011, Ford overhauled its popular Mustang with new engines, quieter interiors and better gas mileage. Cars.com editor Kelsey Mays reviews the top-of-the-line Shelby GT500 supercharged V-8. Read the complete review or Joe Wiesenfelder's road test of the 2011 Ford Mustang V-6.

First drive: 2011 Ford Fiesta photos

Ford Fiesta returns to the U.S. this summer, starting at $13,320. Kelsey Mays of cars.com put the European import through its paces. Read the complete review.

First drive: 2011 Honda CR-Z hybrid

The 2011 Honda CR-Z, set to hit dealerships Aug. 24, has been priced at $19,200, making it the cheapest hybrid available. The sporty hybrid coupe will get a price bump to $20,760 for the EX trim and top out at $23,210 with navigation and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Cars.com editor Joe Wiesenfelder has given the all-new model a thorough going-over. Read his complete review.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee photos

The new Grand Cherokee can go toe-to-toe with the best crossovers, says Cars.com reviewer Mike Hanley: "It's a no-excuses SUV if there ever was one and, in effect, takes on Land Rover at its own game." Read the complete review.

First look: 2011 Ford Explorer

Ford launched its redesigned Explorer sport-utility vehicle with events in Chicago and elsewhere. The more fuel-efficient SUV will be built at Ford's Chicago assembly plant. Read more.

First look: 2011 BMW 5-Series

The 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan goes on sale this June as the rear-wheel-drive 535i and 550i . Excluding destination charges, prices start at $49,600 for the 535i and $59,700 for the 550i. A 240-hp 528i and xDrive all-wheel-drive versions are due later this year. Kelsey Mays got a first look at the 2011 BMW 550i at the New York Auto Show. (April 7, 2010)

Photos: More Mustang muscle for 2011

The 2011 Ford Mustang has a 305-horsepower V-6 engine to rival the 2010 Mustang GT's 315-hp V-8. (The 2011 GT moves into an entirely different class with a 412-hp V-8.) Cars.com editor Joe Wiesenfelder notes that gas mileage is also up across the board, including an amazing EPA-estimated 31 mpg highway for the V-6 automatic. Read his complete review.

April 19, 2010

First look at Scion's 2011 models

Few car brands that can turnover their lineup with new models at just one auto show. But Joe Wiesenfelder of cars.com reports that Scion did just that did at the New York International Auto Show this month.

April 19, 2010

Photos: 2010 Dodge Challenger review

Kelsey Mays of cars.com road-tested the 2010 Dodge Challenger and says there's a thoroughly modern car under that classic 1970s-inspired sheet metal.

Prices & availability | Photos & reader reviews | Dodge special offers

Family cars: 2010 Dodge Journey

The 2010 Dodge Journey starts at $20,490, an attractive price for a crossover with front-wheel drive and five seats. Courtney Messenbaugh of motherproof.com gave it a test drive with families in mind. Read the complete review.

April 14, 2010

Family cars: 2010 Kia Forte

The 2010 Kia Forte sedan may not be a true star, but it's a solid contender. Sara Lacey of Motherproof.com rates it as good first-car material. Read the complete review.

April 7, 2010

Photos: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 review

"For the first time in my life," says Cars.com editor Joe Wiesenfelder, "I have a single favorite car: the Audi R8." He's talking about the 5.2-liter V-10 version, with the Lamborghini Gallardo's engine. Read the complete review.

Photos: 2010 Toyota Corolla LE review

Cars.com evaluates how the popular Toyota Corolla stacks up in a crowded field that includes Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Chevrolet Cobalt. Read the complete review or watch video of editor Joe Wiesenfelder's road test.

Photos: 2010 Buick Enclave

The Enclave combines outstanding utility with premium touches not usually found in such a roomy vehicle, according to a Cars.com road test. Read Kelsey Mays' complete review.

Photos: 2010 cars with best expected resale value

Though probably not at the forefront of a car buyer's mind, it's important to consider what a vehicle's future resale (or residual) value might be. These 2010 model year vehicles are expected to hold the most of their original value within their vehicle class after three years. The list is provided...

June 14, 2010

Photos: 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Off-road enthusiasts love their Wranglers. Cars.com reviewer Kyle Mays tests the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with both on- and off-roaders in mind.

Acura MDX: A cut-above crossover

For 2010, one of the first-ever luxury crossovers gets better interior features and a whole lot better technology,. David Thomas of cars.com says the Acura MDX's driver comfort, fun-to-drive nature and surprising value keep it competitive in a growing segment .
May 19, 2010

Photos: 2010 Volkswagen Touareg

There's sport and utility in this competitor to the Ford Explorer. Read Steven Cole Smith's review

Photos: 2010 Lexus HS250h

The 2010 Lexus HS250h is the entry-level hybrid from Toyota's luxury division, starting at less than $35,000. Read the complete review.

Honda Accord road test

The Accord continues to be a top-selling midsize car in four-cylinder or V-6 engines, automatic or manual transmissions and sedan or coupe styling. Kelsey Mays of cars.com has road-tested most of them, most recently a 4-cylinder EX sedan with automatic transmission. Read his complete review. See photos of the top 10 best-selling new cars of 2010.

Photos: 2010 Land Rover LR4

While many full-size American-made SUVs tend to be wide, the Land Rover LR4 feels tall — like a lovely London row house, says reviewer Sara Lacey of Motherproof.com. Read the complete review.

Honda's $995 kennel puts dogs in their Element

Not every car shopper is looking for a built-in dog kennel and other canine-friendly accoutrements in their next compact SUV. But for that small niche of dog owners who are, there's only one real option: Honda's Element with its new Dog Friendly Package. David Thomas of Cars.com and his boxer Roxy...

Outback gives families room to move

The 2010 Subaru Outback has been named an 2010 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Sara Lacey of the blog Motherproof.com finds Outback big enough for a family and small enough for manuverability.

Photos: Little but loaded cars

Small luxury cars are making a big splash, merging prestige with fuel economy. Here are some of the models on sale now or coming soon (with specifications and prices estimated). Read more