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BMW 1 Series 135i Convertible Performance One measure by which the 1 Series betrays its back-to-basics ethos is curb weight. Despite its petite dimensions, the 2008 BMW 135i Convertible tips the scales at a hefty 3,660 pounds — nearly 300 pounds more than the 135i coupe, and almost as much as a Chrysler 300 full-size sedan. But thanks to its twin-turbocharged, 300-horsepower inline-6, the 135i drop top always feels light on its feet when you drop the hammer. At the test track, our 135 blasted out of the blocks like Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt, lunging to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and blasting through the quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds. We suggest powering the top down at every opportunity, not just to enjoy alfresco motoring but also to revel in the refined, subtle growl of the 135's superb engine.
Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4WD That's not to say the Explorer is a bad automobile. In fact, its design, handling and powertrain have steadily improved over the years. Now three years into its fourth generation, the 2008 Ford Explorer is still a worthy workhorse for those who truly need the utility of a body-on-frame SUV. Yet although it offers a healthy tow rating and three spacious rows of seating, the Explorer is still somewhat weak when it comes to off-roading capability. So whether the Explorer is still a wise purchase these days depends on what you're looking for.
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2009 Acura TSX Comfort A number of standard features — such as perforated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats — serve to pamper those inside the TSX.
Pontiac Vibe GT Design/Fit and Finish With the 2009 Vibe GT, Pontiac's designers deserve credit for having brought a splash of youthful excitement to this typically beige segment. Boasting a chic high-water beltline and a menacing Darth Vader scowl, the Vibe sets out to be the looker of the economy-wagon set, and most would likely agree that it succeeds on this front. Fit and finish is exceptional, serving to impart an air of quality.
Audi A5 At least, that's what we thought until we laid eyes on the 2008 Audi A5. This curvaceous coupe has more curb appeal than Barack Obama on the streets of Berlin, which is particularly impressive given that it's essentially a two-door version of the relatively restrained A4 sedan. It's that rare German car that'll have you peeking lustfully over your shoulder as you're walking away. For many A5 buyers, the nitty-gritty details of performance and pricing will be irrelevant — this is a love-at-first-sight kind of ride, and there's no arguing with that level of infatuation.
Nissan Rogue SL 2WD Performance However, this time around, we made sure to drive more prudently, like the average driver would. Specifically, we were sparing with the accelerator and kept pace with traffic flow rather than perpetually trying to get ahead of it. The Rogue is clearly intended to be driven in this manner. Not only does this strategy quell much of the engine's droning, it also provides smooth and quiet acceleration while maximizing the CVT's fuel-economy potential. In our week with the Rogue, we averaged 23.7 mpg. That's only a hair shy of the EPA's estimate of 24 combined mpg (22 mpg city/27 mpg highway), which is impressive given the amount of heavy traffic we drove in, along with a few strenuous handling evaluations on mountain roads.
smart fortwo Passion With gas hitting $4 per gallon and with its park-it-almost-anywhere size, the 2008 Smart Fortwo may seem heaven-sent for a lot of folks. Indeed, nearly all Smarts have been sold before they hit the dealers' lots, with their future owners clueless as to what it's actually like to pilot the puny two-seater.
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