Fuel Mileage

The ever growing concern over high priced gasoline has prompted the majority of car makers to increase vehicle mileage values to attract customers. In fact, Hyundai has mastered this mileage increase: the Sacramento Bee states that the Elantra boasts a staggering 29 miles per gallon (mpg) within the city and 40 mpg on the freeway. Was this mileage only available on the manual transmission version, you may ask? The answer is a resounding NO; both the manual and six speed automatic transmissions within the 2012 Elantra offer this gas mileage value. Try to compete with that Toyota and Honda!

Clean Engine

With the concern over global warming and pollution at a fever pitch, Hyundai has blown past the competition in regards to a clean engine. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has deemed the Elantra’s engine as a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle, or PZEV, within the strict emission states of California and Oregon. Otherwise, consumers can still benefit from the clean engine in other states as a Ultra Low Emission Vehicle, or ULEV. Even with a low emission rate, Hyundai’s Elantra does not skimp on engine power. The engine still has between 145 and 148 horsepower, based on the state that it was sold within. Driving down the open road never sounded so tempting in this new car!

Sleek Styling

Aesthetics are extremely important to the average car buyer; for all intensive purposes, the majority of purchasers will be driving the Elantra for several years. What sets the 2012 Elantra apart is its flowing exterior design. The curves across the sidewalls and roof create a feeling of flow, as if the vehicle is moving swiftly through wind or water currents. This flow also contributes to its aerodynamic styling; as the Elantra moves down the roadway, the front end cuts through the air flow and creates its own pathway. Proper aerodynamics contribute to improved gas mileage and less wear on the engine block.

Judging

According to the Sacramento Bee, 50 judges looked over the Hyundai Elantra. Not only were they impressed by its design and engine power, they also saw its powerful affect on the public. People who test drive the 2012 Elantra actually enjoy the time behind the wheel; the vehicle responds quickly and nimbly with a high level of safety features, such as air bags. The Elantra’s attractive price tag also excited the judges: starting prices are commonly at $15,000.00. Quite a steal for an outstanding new vehicle.

Hyundai’s Conundrum

With such a successful vehicle design, Hyundai’s manufacturing division is scrambling to feed the public’s thirst for more Elantras. Yahoo! Autos reports that sales have risen as much as 41 percent since 2010, due to the Elantra’s popularity. Montgomery, Alabama is the home base of production for the new 2012 Elantra; they are at peak manufacturing levels and still cannot fill orders fast enough. Although Hyundai is striving to improve the production output, they do not want to compromise on quality; customers that have test driven the new Elantra know the features that are selling points. Hyundai does not want to become frugal and disappoint excited consumers. Patience may be a key factor for all Elantra enthusiasts until they can get their hands on a new vehicle.

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The auto industry is expected to significantly change during the 2012 year, Edmunds.com notes the following trends:

• People seeking that new car smell once again and are trading in their old cars for newer models that feature the latest in technology.
• With gas prices becoming more stabilized and affordable — depending on who you ask, of course –buyers are expected to purchase midsize cars and compact crossover SUVs.
• Although interest in the electric car is not expected to increase, supply shortages are expected to boost the sale of the Toyota Prius.
• Production of cars is expected to increase – giving you more choices than ever.
• If you want a used car, things don’t appear so bright. A lack of supply could keep prices high and force you to consider a new car. But this might not be so bad; a new car may offer cheaper payments and will definitely let you bask in that new-car smell.

Toyota

Many people are turning to cars produced with green technology. Green cars help you save gasoline and in the process save money and the environment. As a result, in 2012, Toyota is focusing on hybrid models, such as the best-selling Prius. The new Prius will feature restyled tail lamps and standard LED running lights that are controlled by an on-and-off switch. In addition, it will come standard with an updated multi-information display system.

These new features will cost you some extra dough, though. The price of the Prius One will increase to about $23,000, and the Prius Two will now sell for around $24,000. You can get a 2012 Prius Three, whose price has increased the most, for around $26,000. The Prius Three justifies its price increase by the addition of many new standard features, such as Toyota’s Entune audio system, Smart Key, its navigation system and a backup camera display. The MSRP for Prius Four is around $28,000, and the most recently debuted Prius, Prius Five, will sell for close to $30,000.

Additional upcoming news from Toyota:

• The more affordable, new Toyota Prius C is on its way — priced in the very low $20,000s.
• A plug-in Prius is on the horizon.
• The luxurious Toyota Avalon is likely heading for a redesign as is the Toyota Tacoma.
• The RAV4 will be somewhat re-engineered, and don’t be surprised to see a RAV4 electric vehicle on the market in the near future.

Honda

Although the Honda Civic has been a long-standing top pick as one of the best small sedans, Consumer Reports gave the 2012 Honda Civic LX scores too low for it to be recommended. However, its reputation for reliability is not expected to change. Consumer Reports based its low rating on the Civic LX’s “cheap interior” and lack of features to make it worthy of its $19,405 price tag. In addition, the Civic LX automatic didn’t reach the high level set by other models in its class, including the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. However, by the end of 2012, expect to see significant changes in the Honda Civic LX that will help remedy the problems which led to its low rating.

The 2012 Honda CR-V presents an “evolutionary advance” over other small SUVs; however, it faces stiff competition when compared to the high-scoring Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4, according to Consumer Reports. Also, get ready for the new Honda CR-V crossover, produced in Canada, and the revamped 2012 Honda Accord

Hyundai

The Hyundai Azera is basically a stretched-out version of the Hyundai Sonata. When compared with the Sonata, it has a larger rear seat and a multitude of upscale features. The 2012 Azera is a front-wheel drive sedan and, unlike the Sonata — which gets its power from only four-cylinders — is powered by a 3.3 liter V6 with 293-hp. The new Azera features standard equipment, including a GPA navigation system and a rear-view camera, which Consumer Reports points out could cost up to $2,000 when purchased from other automakers. This new Hyundai also comes with standard luxury features, such as heated leather seats, a cooled gloved box and a voice-controlled Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

The future of Hyundai may also include:

• A Hyundai Elantra coupe
• Hyundai Veloster turbo
• Remake of the Hyundai Genesis coupe
• New Hyundai Elantra touring model
• Redesigned Hyundai Santa Fe
• Hyundai plug-in hybrid

Volkswagen

This German manufacturer has redesigned its 2012 Passat model, but it doesn’t make the cut for any “Car of the Year” list, says Consumer Reports. The 2012 Passat has a spacious interior, roomy rear seat and large trunk. The SE model, at $25, 595, costs several thousand dollars more than its competition. The Passat SE TDI with a TDI turbodiesel engine impressed the experts at Consumer Reports the most. Priced at around $28, 500, this Passat will take you a whopping 825 miles on the highway before you need to fill-up.

Ford

The Ford Motor Company says its automobile sales in the United States reached 2 million automobiles in 2011—the largest jump since 2007. Beginning 2012 year, Ford holds a 15 percent share in the second largest auto market in the world. The company’s success is believed partly due to the Fiesta, with sales tripling at the end of 2011, and the Explorer, whose sales have more than doubled. Although sales of the Explorer are up, higher gas prices have many consumers flocking to smaller compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, says Ford. Projected changes in the Ford fleet include:

• Restyling the Lincoln Navigator
• Producing a small Lincoln Navigator
• Reinventing the MKZ and MKS models

In addition, the Ford Escape SUV will receive a complete makeover in 2013. The future Ford Escape SUV will offer standard features such as a motion-controlled hand-free lift gate under the rear bumper and an upgraded Sync with a MyFord Touch infotainment system. The 2013 Ford Escape also features park assist, along with curve and torque control — to help the vehicle slow when cornering and accelerate when turning. This new SUV from Ford also features blind-spot sensors.

Ford’s first all electric car, the Ford Focus Electric, based on the 2012 Ford Focus, is a five-door hatchback that seats five. Ford expects this electric car to get 100 miles per gallon. Wow! This electric car is also expected to take less time to charge than other electric cars coming to the market. The Ford Focus Electric is expected to fully charge in only 3 to 4 hours when plugged into a 240-volt plug. However, its 24 kwh lithium-ion battery reportedly uses up a lot of trunk space and, when the back seats are folded down, there is no flat floor in the rear. So, if you need to take a long trip, pack lightly.

Nissan

In 2012 or 2013, expect to see completely new versions of the Nissan Altima, Sentra, Pathfinder and Rogue. Restyling will also occur in the Nissan Frontier pickup truck. Within the next year and a half, you can expect to see a small utility vehicle, called the NV200. Moreover, the Murano crossover will get engineering upgrades and the Nissan Versa Hatchback will be introduced in 2012.

Saab

If you had your heart set on getting a new Saab, there may be some hope. According to AutoNews.com, India’s largest sport-utility manufacturer, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., is interested in buying some components of the bankrupt Swedish manufacturer and might even be interested in buying the whole company. Sold by General Motors, in February 2010, to a Dutch sports-car maker, now known as Swedish Automobile NV, Saab stopped producing cars, due to its inability to pay suppliers and eventually filed for bankruptcy. And, if the Indian manufacturer doesn’t buy Saab, you may still be in luck. The Turkish government wants to produce a brand it can call its own, and is also interested in helping a manufacturer take over at least some of the unsuccessful Saab automaker.

Infiniti

The 2012 Infiniti JX is larger than the Infiniti EX and FX models and seats seven people with a comfortable third-row seat. This high-end luxury brand from Nissan gets its sleek style from the Infiniti Essence and has a 265-hp, 3.5 liter V6 engine to give you all the power you need. The new Infiniti JX offers front and all-wheel drive to help keep you safe in all weather conditions. Moreover, Consumer Reports notes safety features in the JX, such as blind-spot intervention and a back-up collision system, with cross-traffic awareness. You can compare the high-end Infiniti JX can be compared with the Audi Q7. The new Infiniti JX three-row crossover will hit the market in the spring of 2012. According to Infinity America’s vice president Ben Poore, three-row crossovers are one of the hottest trends in the luxury market.

Additional Luxury Vehicles

• Jaguar: The 2012 Jaguar XF, with a V8 engine, provides speed, agility and comfort, and the redesigned XJ is now a luxurious sports sedan with the power of a 385-hp engine. The 2012 XK is a sleek, athletic model that comes in coupe or convertible styles. A new Jag sports car may also be in the works that may give some competition to the Porsche Boxster at a lower price.

• Mercedes-Benz: This German luxury automobile manufacturer is expected to redesign its GL and SL models and might remodel the S-Class. New arrivals on their way to North America include the B-Class and possibly an A-Class. Mercedes E-Class and CL models might also get a makeover. In addition, the C-Class was refreshed for 2012. The Mercedes Benz M-Class 2012 model offers many key improvements, most notably, in performance, cabin ambiance and fuel efficiency, reports Edmunds.com. However, when compared to some its rivals, the new M-Class model is expensive and has no third-row seat option.

• Lexus: Toyota’s luxury brand will get rejuvenated for the 2013 year. However, the changes will begin in 2012 with the newly designed Lexus GS models arriving in the spring. The 2013 Lexus GS will include a new hybrid model with power like a V8 and fuel economy like a V6 engine. As with other hybrids, the battery will take up a great deal of trunk space in the new Lexus GS.

• Porsche: The new 2012 Porsche 911 continues to improve says Edmunds. The 911 comes in multiple models, accelerates and stops easily and is fuel-efficient. This luxury sports car will take a large bite out of your wallet, though, at a MSRP of $79,000.

• BMW: During 2012, expect a new roadster and coupe. The Clubman will be revamped and a new model, known as the Paceman, may also surface in 2012. The BMW 528i gets a new 240 horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 260 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive will also now be available on this model. In addition, when it arrives on the market, the 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i will be the first BMW in the United States with a four-cylinder engine – having the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as the 2012 528i model. The all-new BMW 6 Series has an increased body size and weight, and to accommodate its growth, it is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter, V8 engine with 400hp.

The 2012 automobile industry is changing and growing to meet the needs of its consumers and developing new ways to save gasoline and improve the health of the environment.

The smart phone car was revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show, which takes place every two years in the Japanese capital. Most of the Japanese auto makers usually use the Tokyo Motor Show to display futuristic concept cars that nobody has ever seen before. Every concept car that was revealed would make every car lover drool, but no of them were nearly impressive as the Toyota Fun Vii.

The car’s name stands for vehicle interactive internet and is a rather small car at only 13 feet long. The Fun Vii also does not feature any paint on the exterior. Instead of a paint job, the Fun Vii features an interactive touch screen that you would see on most of the smart phones currently on the market. During the presentation of the Fun Vii, the car was able to recognize and greet the driver as he walked up to the car. This kind of technology could potentially be used in cars to help prevent from auto theft.

Some of the other impressive features of the Fun Vii that were on display at the Tokyo Motor Show include the exterior of the car being able to display your favorite photos, videos or other media. The interior of the Fun Vii also features several features that have never been seen in a car before including the car waring the driver of upcoming driving hazards. The Fun Vii was also able to instantly read Facebook status updates to the driver without having to press a button. When you combine all of the features that were on display in Tokyo, the Toyota Fun Vii is truly a smart phone car.

While all of this very impressive to see, there is no reason to get too excited about actually being able to drive a Toyota Fun Vii in the near future. As with all of the other concept cars on display at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Fun Vii is a car that Toyota is hoping to be able to replicate several years in the future. Toyota may start to implement several of the features found in the interior of the Fun Vii in their upcoming cars. The driver recognition, Facebook feature and driving hazard warnings are something that can be placed in any car without raising the price too much. While we may never see a smart phone car hit the market, it is nice to see a company that is trying to innovate several new technologies.

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In previous years, manufacturers have primarily featured their most exotic, most luxurious, and most expensive vehicles at the L.A. show. This was mostly due to L.A.’s reputation for being the epicenter of these types of cars. However, this year’s event doesn’t place all the weird and exotically-designed, high-priced cars in the primary limelight. Various manufacturers have chosen to display family-sized sedans, SUVs, and crossovers instead of the more sporty vehicles due to high consumer demand for more economical, fuel-efficient vehicles.

Featured 2012 vehicles
Although it’s impossible to give all the details of every vehicle on display at the L.A. Auto Show, there are several worth mentioning.

For example, Honda has given the 2012 Honda CR-V crossover an entirely new look, with a 185 horse-powered four-cylinder engine. It also features an innovated folding mechanism that makes it very easy to flip the seat down for use as a cargo area. In addition, the CR-V features compatibility with Pandora in-car audio streaming and has other infotainment features too.

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Another 2012 model worth mentioning is the Hyundai Azera. This full-sized sedan is comparable to a Taurus, Passat, Avalon, or LaCrosse. Although it has a 293-horsepowered V-6 engine, it’s ideal for teenage drivers and people looking to save money on car insurance. The Azera’s Blue Link telematics system makes it easy for drivers to obtain driving directions or make reservations through live operator assistance. However, what makes it ideal for teenage drivers and lower insurance rates is the fact that owners can set some limits simply by going to a website that the Blue Link is connected to. For instance, the owner can limit where and when the car is driven, and how loud the stereo is played.

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Featured 2013 models
The 2013 Ford Escape is also worth mentioning. The 2013 models include a choice of three types of four-cylinder engines, but do not come with the Hybrid edition option. The buyer can choose a carryover base engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, or a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine. Some other new features included in the 2013 Ford Escape are a roomier cabin and MyFord Touch. MyFord Touch permits the driver to utilize voice commands, touchscreen swipes, or steering-wheel button clicks to control the phone, stereo, navigation, and climate systems.

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In the meantime, Cadillac’s new XTS will be replacing its STS and DTS sedans. The buyer has the option of in-front or all-wheel-drive. However, the XTS only comes with a 3.6-liter, 300-horsepowered V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic. Cadillac won’t be offering the V-8 engine with this model. Nevertheless, the XTS does debut the Cadillac Cue system, which is similar to Ford’s MyFord Touch system. Cadillac Cue enables drivers to utilize a blend of touchscreen, voice, and steering-wheel controls to operate their audio, climate, navigation, and phone systems.

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Shared technology
Many of the auto show attendees may also be surprised by all the shared technology among the various manufacturers. Some manufacturers are now using each others technology to improve vehicle performance and to cut down the production costs. For instance, like the 2013 Ford Escape, the 2013 Mazda CX-5’s underpinnings are built off of Ford’s “C” architecture. Although not as stylish as it was in prior years, the CX-5 model does use “SKYACTIV” engine technology. This technology makes it possible for the 155-horsepowered CX-5 to get approximately 33mpg on the highway.

Another model sharing a different vehicle’s technology is the 2013 Infiniti JX. The seven-passenger JX crossover shares the Nissan Murano production line and V-6/CVT powertrain. However, the JX comes with its own unique features of a standard third-row seat and deluxe wood-trimmed interior. In addition, the JX features more compactness than the EX and FX models. It’s also more economical and less bulky than the QX56 SUV model.

Exotic, sports, and concept cars
Some exotic brand manufacturers, such as Lamborghini, have chosen to not make an appearance at the 2011 L.A. Auto Show in order to make a more intimidate debut. For example, the limited-edition Gallardo was revealed at its Beverly Hills showroom instead of being displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show. However, there are still numerous exotic vehicles on display, such as Bentley’s exotic GTC convertible (shown below).

Although the sports and concept cars are not the main attractions this year, they can still be seen at the show. For example, Ford is displaying a 2013 Mustang trio, which included a 420-horsepowered GT, a 650-horsepowered Shelby GT500, and a Boss 302. Chevy is using its latest 580-horsepowered Camaro ZL1 to compete with these Mustangs. Although it’s still in its concept-car form, the Subaru BRZ is also on display. The BRZ’s final shape is set to be revealed at the December 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. The L.A. Auto Show may be a bit different this year, but it was definitely still an exciting event to attend.

Forget about Ferrari, Bugatti, and Pagani, the elite in luxury sports automobiles just got better. With a 7-litre turbocharged and supercharged V8 engine that goes from zero to 60 in just 2.9 seconds, the Zenvo ST-1 packs more power than most comparable brands. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on one of these rare beauties, you’ll not only be amazed at its quickness but also will be able to keep track of it too; as right now they come with a complementary Swiss made Apsen watch valued at $49,000.

The ST-1’s carbon-fiber body is contentiously styled in a way that accurately pays homage to what lies under the hood. This 3000 pound marvel comes equipped with an 1104 horsepower engine that offers 1055 foot pounds of torque and maxes out at 233 miles an hour. As if that wasn’t enough, Zenvo also created a special edition called the ST-1 50S that offers an amazing 1240 horsepower and 1106 foot pounds of torque! One of the fastest accelerating cars on the market, with its 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission, the Zenvo ST-1 line of cars lets nothing stand in its way.

This cars lightweight racing chassis has an automatic hydraulic suspension that helps to increase speed and limit damage caused by steep drives. Its interior is much likes its performance, way beyond that which one would expect from a luxury sports car. This supercar’s cockpit style design includes a heads-up display that allows you to view everything without taking your eyes of the road and a g-force meter that screams you’re not driving, you’re flying.

With dual zone automatic climate control, electronically adjustable racing seats, driver information center, telescoping steering wheel, auto-dimming rear view mirror, electronic instrument display, and key-less access the ST-1 is not only built for speed but also for comfort.

If you are concerned about maintaining such an expensive investment, fret no longer. This car’s on-board diagnostics as well as new engine and transmission software can be remotely accessed and analyzed from anywhere in the world. If you think that’s impressive, think again. The manufacture will even fly a technician to your location for upkeep and service.

If you happen to have a small fortune lying around and are wondering where you can get one, you must act fast. The Danish automaker is only releasing 12 ST-1’s and 3 ST-1 50S’s for sale in the states, which are being released from Red Sea Distribution in Anaheim, California. Most dealerships that will have access to the stock are asking buyers to place their custom orders at least 8 months in advance so hurry, even at $1.8 million their bound to go fast.

High probability of theft

Drivers who carry comprehensive insurance are covered if their car is stolen or damaged in an attempted theft, as well as by fire and certain other eventualities. Sports cars attract thieves due to the high resale value of their parts, so a comprehensive policy for a sports car will cost more than for a compact or even a luxury car. Some companies will give discounts if the vehicle has theft deterrents like car alarms or if it is kept in a secure area that may partially offset this factor.

High probability of damage

Sports cars are more likely to be involved in accidents than other vehicles. They are smaller, making them harder to see. Their engines are more powerful than some cars, and their transmission, steering, brakes and even their suspension are likely to be tuned for high performance, making them less simple to operate. The power of a sports car compared with other vehicles of the same weight increase potential damage to other vehicles, meaning that even basic liability insurance for sports cars may be quite costly. Tiny sports cars are also easily damaged, so collision insurance is expensive, too.

Cost of repair

Many sports cars use high performance parts that are extremely expensive to replace. Some of these vehicles are imports requiring parts that may have to be imported. Both these factors mean that an accident can be quite costly to an insurance company, and the company’s exposure to costly claims will be reflected in the premiums a sports car owner must pay.

Another factor is repair cost is the availability of trained personnel. Those high performance parts require a technician that understands them, and that sort of knowledge may not be available at the average local garage. Highly skilled mechanics are expensive, and so is the need to transport a vehicle to them. The need to cover this sort of claims means that insurance companies must charge more to insure sports cars.

A sports car is an expensive proposition in many ways, but for the driver who loves them, the expense is more than justified. However expensive sports car insurance might be, drivers should remember that it protects their investment in their car. Comparison shopping to find the best deal is one thing, but skimping on insurance for an expensive car to save on premiums is false economy.