The GMC Sierra is a solid pickup truck, available in Regular Cab, Extended Cab, and Crew Cab styles. All three cab variations are available in four different trims and two bed lengths. A wide range of engines is available: 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V6; 285-hp, 4.8-liter V8; 295-hp, 5.3-liter V8 and 345-hp, 6.0-liter V8. Braking is adequate,... Read More »
The GMC Envoy is a solid midsized SUV, but it still falls short of many of its competitors. This SUV is spacious, with a comfortable ride and an agile inline-six engine. Handling is a bit boorish and can be tricky at the limit. Wind noise is blatant. The XL model has a third seat row.... Read More »
The Ford F-150 is the full-size half-ton pickup. Handsome, capable, and safe, the Ford F-150 is one appealing truck. The Ford F-150 is among the best of full-size pickups. The F-150 is available in three body styles: regular cab, extended cab and crew cab. Power comes from a 5.4-liter V8 engine. Ford F-150 offers a... Read More »
The Dodge Durango offers an appealing combination of power, comfort and utility. The Durango is Dodge’s midsize SUV. The Durango features third-row seating and roomy interior. The third row is a bit small and hard to get in but overall very nice. Handling is sound and secure and the ride is compliant. The cabin is... Read More »
The Chrysler PT Cruiser (MSRP $14,850 – $29,500) is a tall, retro style front-drive wagon available in a two-door convertible body style. The PT Cruiser is a well-rounded vehicle that offers a many-sided, flexible interior, precise, solid handling, well working drakes, relatively aspiring acceleration delivered by turbocharged engines, a bit harsh ride and a somewhat... Read More »
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a 9 passenger full-sized SUV with an impressive trailer-towing capability and an absorbent ride. Handling is blurred, the steering is amorphic, and the brakes are neither good nor bad. Electronic stability control is standard on all models. The Chevy Tahoe is available in three trim levels: base LS (4.8-liter V8, 285... Read More »
The Audi A6 is a real threatening rival to the class-leading BMW 5 Series. It’s styling has been refreshed with a more aggressive front end. Inside, there is a high quality cabin, masses of legroom front and rear, plus a huge boot. Despite the dimensions, the A6 is an entertaining drive. The sum-ups: the car... Read More »
The Acura RL is a remarkably sensible luxury sports sedan. Front-passenger comfort is excellent, with some of the best seats in the class. Everything on the RL is standard, including keyless operation and navigation, XM satellite radio (with the monthly subscription charges though). The RL is well-equipped with swiveling headlights, a Bose surround-sound DVD stereo,... Read More »
The Acura MDX is an utterly capable and perfectly useful SUV, although somewhat bland. The MDX is offered as a four-door SUV in base or Touring trim. Both of them have a long list of standard features. The MDX has a strong, refined powertrain and pleasant ride, though road noise is notable. The MDX feels... Read More »
The Volvo XC90 is a seven-seater SUV, has an all-wheel drive and a third row that folds flat. It is easy to drive and pleases the eyes. It features a stability-control system that detects a rollover. The ride is comfortable. Power is produced by five-, six-, or eight-cylinder engines. This SUV features a flexible and... Read More »