Ford Edge is a five-passenger mid-size crossover SUV built on a car-based platform that offers more convenience, easy maneuverability, a quiet and roomy cabin, comfortable ride, Sync system and a lot of standard safety equipment. The 2010 Ford Edge is available in SE, SEL, Limited and Sport trims.

 

Power and performance

 

The 2010 Ford Edge is driven by a 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. All trims come standard with front-wheel drive, and all but the SE can be equipped with all-wheel drive. A front-drive Edge accelerates from zero to 60 mph in an 8.1 seconds.

 

When properly equipped, the Edge tows up to 3,500 pounds. The front-wheel-drive Edge delivers 17 mpg in city and 24 mpg on highways. The all-wheel-drive models yield 15 and 22 mpg. The cargo capacity stands at 32 cubic feet with the backseat in use. Folding down the second row opens up a not-so-flat cargo floor and a maximum capacity of 69 cubes.

 

Body and styling

 

The SE comes standard with 17-inch painted aluminum wheels, quad beam halogen headlamps, black exterior door handles, sideview mirrors, rear spoiler, dual chrome exhaust tips, cloth seats, front bucket seats with driver manual lumbar, full power accessories, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, rear 60/40 split fold-flat seat with manually reclining seatbacks, folding center armrest and an AM/FM stereo/single-CD player with MP3 capability.

 

The optional Convenience Package adds auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlamps, SecuriCode keyless-entry keypad, secondary steering wheel-mounted audio controls and Reverse Sensing System+ SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month subscription to the SE. All-weather floor mats Black roof side rails, Ford SYNC voice-activated, in-vehicle communications and entertainment system are the other available options.

 

The SEL is equipped with all standard SE features, plus 18-inch painted-aluminum wheels, automatic headlamps, SecuriCode keyless-entry keypad, Reverse Sensing System, fog lamps with chrome bezels, unique cloth seats, 6-way power driver seat, EasyFold rear seatback release, auto-dimming rearview mirror, AM/FM stereo/6-disc in-dash CD changer with secondary steering wheel-mounted controls and MP3 capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio with 6-month subscription, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, message center and unique aluminum finish on instrument panel. The Leather Comfort Package adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and a power passenger seat (again with manual seatback).

 

The Edge Limited comes equipped with all standard SEL features, plus 18-inch premium aluminum chrome-clad wheels, leather-trimmed seats, 6-way power heated front buckets with driver-seat memory feature and fold-flat front-passenger seat, Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control with particulate air filter, ambient Lighting, SYNC, Premium Sound System with AM/FM stereo/6-disc in-dash CD changer with 9 speakers (including A-pillar-mounted tweeters and an 8" subwoofer) with 320 watts, unique brushed-aluminum finish on center-stack panel and doorsill scuff plates and Universal Garage Door Opener.

 

The top of the line Edge Sport features 20-inch premium aluminum chrome-clad wheels, unique body-color front and rear lower fascias, body-color door cladding and side-skirt rocker moldings, unique headlamp and tail lamp blackout treatment, larger 3½-inch bright dual exhaust tips, contrast stitching on leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, leather-trimmed seats with Alcantara Grey inserts, ambient Lighting, SYNC and Cargo Management System.

 

The optional Premium Package adds Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control with particulate air filter, Universal Garage Door Opener, security approach lamps, heated front bucket seats and sideview mirrors with memory, 6-way power fold-flat front-passenger seat and power liftgate. Also optional are 22-inch wheels, which also come with a unique suspension tune.

 

A panoramic sunroof, a power liftgate, remote ignition, a rear seat DVD entertainment system and a hard-drive-based navigation system with voice activation, real-time traffic and weather, DVD audio and video capability and digital music storage are among the stand-alone options on the SEL, Limited and Sport.

 

Safety features

 

The 2010 Ford Edge is equipped with six standard airbags including dual-stage front airbags, side airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags. Antilock disc brakes, stability control (with rollover avoidance logic), and blind spot mirrors are all standard. It scored five stars (out of five) for the driver and four stars for the passenger in frontal impact tests in government crash tests and received five stars in side impact testing for both front and rear passengers. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, the Edge secured the highest possible rating of "Good" in both frontal offset and side impact testing.

 

Honda’s Accord Sedan is known for comfort, luxury and advanced technology for more than twenty years now and has come to be regarded as an icon of reliability and safety. A strong, sensible choice for family sedan shoppers, the 2009 Honda Accord offers a satisfying driving experience and utility. It may not be as sporty as Nissan Altima or the Mazda 6, but it certainly scores in terms of build quality and materials used in the cabin. This quality, coupled with Honda's solid reputation for reliability, makes the Accord a better choice in the midsize sedan category.

 

Though the EPA has termed the 2009 Honda Accord LX-P Sedan as a large vehicle, it retains its midsize handling dynamics and remains a strong competitor in the volume-selling family sedan segment. The "P" in LX-P stands for premium. A $1,000 upgrade over the standard Accord LX, the LX-P adds 16-inch wheels, an eight-way power driver seat, a security system, auto up/down driver and passenger windows with illuminated switches, and a chrome exhaust finisher. It is a practical alternative for the tidier EX and to save a few dollars.

 

Design/Fit and Finish

 

The 2009 Honda Accord is 5 inches longer and an inch wider than a Camry. It is well-built with high quality materials. The styling is simple though the clean design cues do not stand out much. The trapezoidal-styled taillights and slightly rounded deck lid are noticeable. Inside, the instrument cluster’s layout is clean and the brushed aluminum on the gauges lends the car an upscale look. The buttons on the center stack have a nice, solid feel to them, regardless of how you feel about their placement.

 

Comfort

 

The 2009 Honda Accord LX-P's spacious interior makes it easy to get in and out, and finding a comfortable position for driving is also very easy thanks to a tilt-telescoping steering wheel. Though not awfully flashy, the interior is roomy, and has a well-designed and functional layout. An eight-way power-adjustable driver seat is comfortable. Rear passengers have sufficient leg- and headroom. There is also plenty of room to install child safety seats on either side, both forward- and rear-facing. All seats are firm and well-bolstered, and the cloth upholstery is soft and comfortable. The Accord's ride quality is firm. However, one can hear and feel every change in the pavement or bump on the road. Overall, it’s quite satisfying from the driver's perspective.

 

Power and Performance

 

The 2009 Honda Accord LX-P‘s 2.4-liter engine pumps out 177 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque and is best suited for everyday use. It delivers 21 mpg in city and 30 on mpg highway. To put it generally, one can be sure of 22 mpg in varied conditions. The feel of the brake pedals is consistent under heavy braking, but yields an underwhelming 60-0 stopping distance of 137 feet. Actually this is about 12 feet longer than it takes to stop the Mazda 6. A high level of body roll can also be noticed during hard cornering.

 

Around the town, the 2.4-liter engine accelerates stylishly, with enough power to pass slower vehicles. The steering is taut and accurate, and when pushed, the Accord reveals a capable chassis lurking beneath the body roll. Look out for a slightly larger space to park this sedan.

 

Function

 

The Accord LX-P’s functional layout is clear-cut. Each horizontal row of buttons has a different-size arrangement, and they are easy to read and large. The climate control, stereo volume and tuning knobs are uniquely shaped and can be easily identified by touch. The steering wheel also features cruise control and basic stereo functions. However, one tends to use the large volume knob on the dash more than the small steering wheel mounted controls. Plugging in a phone charger to the power outlet in the center stack takes a bit more dexterity than it should.

 

The trunk has a large opening, but the usable space in the back of the trunk is narrow. The maximum cargo capacity is only 14 cubic feet, which is actually less.

 

In all, 2009 Honda Accord is a good choice for people looking for a roomy, well-equipped and fuel-efficient sedan and the LX-P trim level adds value to the base-model Accord with some significant additions.

 

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring is an all-new four-door hatchback variant of the similarly named compact sedan. Based on the Hyundai i30 CW, the 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring comes well equipped with plenty of impressive standard features, long warranty, good cargo capacity and a spacious cabin.

 

The Hyundai Elantra’s standard equipment list includes electronic stability and traction control; four-wheel disc brakes (with ABS, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution); six airbags; USB/iPod auxiliary input; XM Satellite Radio; a tilt-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls and cruise control; power windows and mirrors; and more.

 

A 141-horsepower DOHC 2.0-liter inline-4 with continuously variable intake-valve timing (CVVT) delivers an EPA estimated 23 mpg in city and 33 mpg on highways.

 

For everyday driving, the CVVT gives this small engine good throttle response and adequate torque. Shift action from the five-speed manual transmission is crisp. Similarly the clutch engagement is precise. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on this ace Hyundai model (a four-speed automatic is an option).

 

The brake pedal's effort and efficiency are well matched. The four-wheel discs function well too. However, the ABS gives out some noise during panic stops and most of it is from the all-season tires. The wind and tire noise are almost absent and the tires offer good grip on roads. At 106.3 inches, the Elantra Touring’s wheelbase is longer when compared to its rivals.

 

Inside the cabin, the Hyundai claims that the 2009 Elantra Touring has the largest overall interior volume of any vehicle in its class - 125.5 cubic feet. The rear-seat accommodations are generous but there are no ventilation vents and the seatbacks cannot be reclined. There is just 24 cubic feet of space for cargo. When the rear seats are folded flat, the cargo capacity goes up to 65 cubic feet which is more than what Nissan Murano offers. A small, hidden, watertight compartment under the cargo floor is a plus point.

 

The driver’s seat can be adjusted in six ways, and the passenger’s seat is four-way adjustable. The trendy tilt and telescoping steering is driver friendly and more suitable for full-size drivers. All the knobs and controls are placed at suitable spaces in the cabin and the quality of materials used is also good. There are a number of storage spaces. The standard six-speaker, 172-watt audio system with CD changer, satellite radio and MP3 capability sounds good but it’s not loud enough.

 

To conclude, the Elantra’s ride quality is smooth and stable, even at highway speeds. The wind and road noise are also negligible which make the Elantra one of the good choices in its class for those who drive a lot on highways.

 

A four-door, five-passenger compact pickup truck, the 2009 Honda Ridgeline has been designed to give exactly what one needs to get the job done. With Honda quality built right in, this truck will be with you for the long haul.

 

The Ridgeline was introduced in 2006 and is unlike a typical pickup truck in a number of ways. It is more like a crossover SUV than a truck with its basic structure shared with the Honda Odyssey. Its composite truck bed is made of the area that would house the cargo hold or third-row seat of a typical SUV. One may also find the Ridgeline is similar to Chevrolet Avalanche but it lacks the Avalanche's novel midgate. It is lighter by a thousand pounds, which makes for great ride and handling benefits. In short, the Honda's only pickup exactly what most suburbanites want from a truck with a calm ride and practical interior space.

 

Power and performance

 

The 2009 Honda Ridgeline pickup is available with just one engine and transmission choice: a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 250 horsepower, routed through a five-speed automatic transmission. The 5-speed automatic transmission has been built with heavy-duty truck use in mind. Clutches, shafts, gear ratios and bearings have all been upgraded for towing and hauling. All Ridgeline trucks are all wheel driven sprinting to 60 mph from zero in 9 seconds flat, never feels slow in normal driving.

 

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard and they bring the truck to a stop from 60 mph in a disappointing 141 feet, considerably longer than that of other trucks. One may feel the lack of grip which affects the handling. However, for everyday driving, the Ridgeline is surprisingly quick and lively for a truck. The V6 engine is also very smooth.

 

When properly equipped, the Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The standard Variable Torque Management (VTM-4) all-wheel-drive setup functions transparently on wet or snowy roads. The EPA estimates the 2009 Honda Ridgeline's mpg as 15 city/20 highway/17 combined.

 

Comfort and convenience

 

The Ridgeline's interior feels very comfortable and convenient. Both front and rear seats are supportive and firm. Headroom is sufficient and the driving position mostly perfect, offering a commanding view of the road. The legroom in the rear-seating area is also quite sufficient, and installing a forward- or rear-facing child seat is not at all a problem, and rear air-conditioning vents are standard.

 

The road noise from the tires is noticeable, but there is no wind or engine noise inside the cabin. However, the growl can be heard when the V6 is really pressed. The Ridgeline is amazingly delivers smooth ride and handling and comes across as refined truck. Its carlike unibody construction and independent suspension eliminates the shaking and bouncing that plagues many a pickups.

 

Functions

 

There are plenty of storage bins and cubbies inside. Many of the storage areas are lined with a durable and easy-to-clean rubber material, making the Ridgeline a family-friendly vehicle. Though there are a number of trim-based levels of equipment, every Ridgeline is a four-door, all-wheel-drive, V6-powered pickup suited for cities. The lack of color accents makes its interior a little dull. The Ridgeline lacks the separate bed and cab typical of a traditional pickup but that is not a drawback considering its power and performance.

 

The audio system is easy to use. The navigation system is basic and does not include a lot of bells and whistles like live traffic information. The Ridgeline's 5-foot-long bed is certainly a good one but there are no different bed and cab configurations. A tailgate that folds down like a typical truck gate or swings to the side like an old-school station wagon door makes the access to the bed or trunk easy. This flexibility makes the 2009 Honda Ridgeline a blend of both family-friendly minivan and down-and-dirty pickup. However, the Ridgeline does not stand out visually. Both exterior and interior looks do not appeal much. Though the interior features some interesting features such as the oval climate control display and the oversized door pulls, they are almost hidden in a sea of monochrome gray. Even the functional gauges bear a boring look.

 

A typical Honda inside and out, the Ridgeline is best suited for suburbanites who use the family pickup for daily commuting or those who need light-truck cargo and towing abilities.

 

The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is a well-appointed mid-size semi-luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV) that has room for up to seven passengers as well as plentiful cargo capacity. It is quite versatile, accommodating, with available leather-trimmed seats and innovative features such as optional PowerFold third-row seats, available Navigation System, available SYNC in-car voice-activated communications and entertainment system.

 

The Mercury Mountaineer shares its major components with the Ford Explorer but it can be differentiated with unique exterior styling, a more luxurious interior, and a more comprehensive choice of options. It is a body on frame SUV that offers a more truck-like ride in return for high towing and off-roading capabilities in contrast to the large numbers of car-based crossover SUV's that are flooding the market today. This versatile SUV can be configured with seating for 5, 6, or 7 passengers.

 

Power and performance

 

The Mountaineer is available in two trim levels: Base and the upscale Premier.

 

A 4.0-liter V6 mated to a five-speed automatic transmission rated at 210-hp and 254 lb ft of torque mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission is standard on both trims. A robust 292-hp 4.6-liter V8 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission is optional on the Premier. Standard Mountaineer models are equipped with rear-wheel drive, while All-Wheel Drive is optional on all models.

 

When the Mountaineer’s second- and third-row seats are folded down, a spacious 83.7 cubic feet of loadable cargo room is available. A Mountaineer can tow more than 7,000 pounds when properly equipped.

 

Body and styling

 

The Mountaineer enters into 2010 with only a minimum number of changes. The Premier trim now gets upgraded standard equipment including a power moonroof, heated front seats with driver memory, power adjustable pedals, auxiliary rear climate control, upgraded audio and a reverse sensing system.

 

The well equipped Mountaineer Base trim rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels with automatic headlamps, standard 5-passenger seating, a cloth interior, fog lamps, air conditioning, a CD player with MP3 capabilities and cruise control.

 

The Premier features automatic climate control, satellite radio, and a third-row seat. It also adds up market niceties as 7-passenger leather seating with alcantara trim, Ford's new SYNC hands-free system, 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, and fixed running boards to aid ingress and egress.

 

A bevy of optional features including a premium Audiophile sound system with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, a voice-activated Navigation System, enormous 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, and a power moonroof are optional.

 

Safety features

 

The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a number of safety features including dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, traction control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), fog lamps, Lower Anchors and Tether anchors for CHildren (LATCH) and anti-lock disc brakes, and an Advancetrac stability control with a rollover prevention feature.

 

The all new 2009 XF is the newest model from Jaguar that has received rare accolades around the world for its unique blend of sport performance and modern luxurious detail. The four-door, five-passenger Jaguar XF is a stunning luxury sport sedan with coupe-like exterior lines, 300-hp V8 power, and stylish interior. Its steering wheel-mounted paddles allow fast gear changes while the sophisticated JaguarDrive Selector offers a Winter Mode for cold climate peace of mind.

 

Equipment like iPod and Bluetooth integration, keyless start, and 7-inch color touch screen add a hi-tech touch to this brand new Jaguar model. The Bond Grain leather seating, polished wood veneers and aluminum dash components lend a contemporary feel. One can also add amazing Bowers & Wilkins sound, Sirius Satellite Radio, navigation with JaguarVoice, Adaptive Cruise Control, a rear parking camera, and 20-inch alloy wheels for comfort and convenience.

 

Power and performance

 

The 2009 Jaguar XF is a mid-size luxury sport sedan available in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Supercharged.

 

A 4.2-liter V8 good for 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque motivates the RWD Luxury and Premium Luxury trims. Jaguar claims a 0-60-mph time of 6.2 seconds for these models. The Supercharged boasts of a supercharged version of that V8 rated at 420 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It sprints to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. A six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddles is standard.

 

The Luxury trim delivers an EPA estimated 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway and the Supercharged is rated at 15/21.

 

Body and styling

 

The Jaguar XF is the latest in a lengthy line of beautiful, fast cars. It blends sports car styling and performance with the refinement, features and space of a luxury sedan. The styling is modern portraying Jaguar´s strength of driver-focused engineering and craftsmanship.

 

The Jaguar XF Luxury is one of the best equipped base models in its class, with features like dual zone climate control, rear park assist, passive keyless entry and start and a power glass sunroof included in the price along with the bond-grain leather seating with satin-finish walnut and aluminum trim, a sunroof, Bluetooth connectivity, a 320-watt, eight-speaker stereo and 18-inch alloy wheels.

 

The Jaguar XF Premium Luxury’s standard equipment comprises a GPS navigation system, soft-grain leather on the seats, dash and door panels, three-stage heated front seats and 19-inch wheels, among other things. It also gets 19-inch wheels, heated 16-way power front seats, upgraded leather, a navigation system with voice activation, and keyless ignition/entry.

 

The Advanced Vision Package adds a rearview camera, front park assist, a radar-operated Blind Spot Monitor and self-leveling Bi-Xenon headlights to the Jaguar XF and Luxury and Premium Luxury trims. Larger wheels, an electric rear-glass sunblind, Sirius Satellite Radio hardware are among the other options. A premium audio package adds a 440-watt Bowers & Wilkins unit with surround processing, 13 speakers, an in-dash six-CD changer and Sirius Satellite Radio.

 

The top of the line Jaguar XF Supercharged adds a more strong engine, 20-inch wheels, larger brakes, an active suspension (dubbed "CATS" - Computer Active Technology Suspension), a power rear sunshade, cooled front seats, bi-xenon headlights, front park assist, a rearview camera and an upgraded audio system with six-CD changer and satellite radio. A heated steering wheel and radar-guided Adaptive Cruise Control are optional.

 

Safety features

 

Dual-stage front airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, head-protecting curtain airbags for all outboard seats, and a tire pressure monitoring system are standard. A rear park assist with a graphic display on the dash is also standard on all models.

 

A rearview camera, front park assist and blind-spot monitor are standard on the Supercharged trim and optional on other models. Dynamic Stability Control with an understeer managing feature and the latest-generation antilock brakes (ABS) have also been included among the standard equipment. The ABS features a brake assist for full force in panic stops and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). A component called Cornering Brake Control that proportions brake force from side to side to keep the car balanced while braking through a curve has been integrated into the EBD.

 

Overview

 

Hyundai Genesis is an all-new model for 2009. A 4-door, 5-passenger luxury family sedan, available in two trims, the 3.8L and the 4.6L, the Genesis is Hyundai's the first rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan for the U.S. market. It takes on top models like BMW 5 Series, Lexus GS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Infiniti M, and is priced like the Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8. Hyundai claims that Genesis is a sport sedan with a firm rear-wheel-drive structure and sophisticated five-link front and rear suspensions.

 

With a silky smooth ride, sufficient interior room, and power, the Genesis is a practical choice that fits between conventional luxury brands and the less-expensive models. One can go for a capable Genesis 3.8L that provides better handling and fuel economy or a top-of-the-line quicker Genesis 4.6L.

 

Power and performance

 

A 3.8-liter V6 that produces 290 hp and 264 pound-feet of torque powers the Genesis 3.8L. The upgraded Genesis 4.6L features a 4.6-liter V8 good for 368 hp 324 lb-ft (375 hp and 333 lb-ft with premium fuel). A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability is standard on both models.

 

The Genesis is quick; theV8 sprints to 0-60-mph in just 5.9 seconds. The EPA fuel economy estimates for the V6 are 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway and the V8 delivers 17/25. The cargo capacity on both models is 15.9 cubic feet.

 

Body and styling

 

The Genesis 3.8L comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, automatic headlights, leather upholstery; dual-zone automatic climate control; tilt/telescoping, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, heated front seats, seven-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, XM satellite radio, auxiliary audio input jack, iPod interface and Bluetooth wireless cell phone link. It is also equipped with eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar adjustment; four-way power-adjustable passenger seat; heated power mirrors; power windows and door locks and a remote keyless access.

 

A Premium Package adds a sunroof; leather-wrapped dash and door trim; power tilt/telescoping steering wheel; memory for the driver's seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel; Lexicon 15-speaker audio system; six-disc CD changer; automatic windshield defogger; rain-sensing wipers; and a power rear sunshade to the Genesis 3.8L.

 

A Premium Plus Package has the same equipment with P235/50R18 tires on alloy wheels with chrome inserts. The Technology Package with front- and rear park assist, navigation system, heated/cooled front seats, 17-speaker Lexicon audio system with 7.1 surround, HD radio, XM NavTraffic with one-year subscription, 40-gigabyte hard drive, rearview camera, and adaptive, auto-leveling xenon headlights is another option available.

 

The Genesis 4.6L comes with a 18-inch Hyper Silver alloy wheels, chrome lower bodyside moldings, power glass sunroof with tilt and slide, Lexicon 14-speaker surround sound audio system with in-dash 6-disc CD changer, power tilt/telescoping wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Technology Package is the only option.

 

Safety features

 

Four-Wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS), advanced front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags and electronic active front head restraints are standard. Front and rear park assist and a rearview camera are available with the Technology Package.

 

Mercedes-Benz S-Class luxury sedan has been an icon of luxury and driving pleasure for more than 50 years now. Undoubtedly one of the most dazzling vehicles available today, the S-Class has been a favorite of many a people with the resources to afford the best. Its groundbreaking innovation, tremendous power and the timeless style have received drivers' and passengers’ admiration for decades. Every part of the S-Class exudes an opulent classic look and the functionality is impeccably refined.

 

A distinguished appearance, fierce acceleration and a high ride quality sensibly balance comfort with performance in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550. Its comprehensive list of features adds every imaginable high-tech luxury feature that a wealthy man could look forward to buy. That does not make it the only vehicle available in its category; there are models like the BMW 7 Series and Audi A8. However, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 has more opulent than them and comes across as a definitive luxury sedan in a crowd. Thus, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 is an out and out luxurious sedan suitable for those with deep pockets. Its spacious interior, generous trunk and long list of safety features make it a convincing pick for those seeking a high-end family hauler. It is also suitable for wealthy seniors, thanks to its comfort-oriented cabin and the availability of features like Night View Assist.

 

Performance

 

A 5.5-liter V8 good for 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque powers the S550. It reaches 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds and the power delivery is smooth, and shifts are flawless, though not much quick. The car grounds to a halt from 60 mph in just 108 feet, and brakes show zero fade even after several punishing runs.

 

The S550's optional Active Body Control (ABC) adaptive suspension is indeed a significant asset which keeps all four tires glued to the pavement on the skid pad, and banished body roll on the slalom. EPA fuel-economy estimates of 2009 Mercedes-Benz S550 stand at 14 mpg in city and 22 mpg on highways and 17 mpg combined.

 

Comfort

 

The doors open widely for easy access into the S550. The seats are firm and supportive with bolstering. There is enough room in the rear seats, even 6-footers can travel in comfort. The child seats are easily accommodated. Though the wind noise is absent, the tire noise can be noticed — not good for a luxury sedan in this price range.

 

The optional Blind Spot Assist is a good feature for a freeway travel. There is also an optional Night View Assist which uses a near-infrared camera to deliver a clear view of the dark road ahead. The audio and navigation systems can be controlled through the COMAND system. A big push-and-turn knob on the center console allows drivers to manage these functions using an in-dash screen. The Harman Kardon stereo system delivers a good quality sound.

 

The S550's spacious trunk can hold 16.2 cubic feet of cargo. It is nearly 2 cubic feet more than its competitors Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series but less the Lexus' LS sedan.

 

The S550's sheet metal is classy and looks a little bit old-fashioned for younger buyers. It is a flagship Mercedes-Benz model that embodies craftsmanship and attention to detail. The quality of materials used is worthy of appreciation. The plastics used are flexible and pleasantly textured. The gauges are lovely. The speedometer — a crisp digital image of a classic analog gauge — is eye pleasing. In short, the S550’s interior is ultra luxurious and takes on the ultra luxury sedans that cost twice as much. In this respect, the S550 sedan is really a good choice.

 

Honda Odyssey has evolved comprehensively in the last 15 years to meet the changing demands and tastes of minivan buyers. There are more choices than even before in the minivan segment now including the old favorite Toyota Sienna and Mazda CX-9 and the number is growing. However, the Honda Odyssey still leads the list. Its spaciousness and hauling capability leaves crossovers far behind, and exceeds most other minivans in style, drivability and execution. In short, the Honda Odyssey is a perfect family vehicle.

 

The 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring is the priciest trim level in the Odyssey line up which competently endures long journeys and comes across as a focused family van. Triple-zone climate control, navigation, rear-seat DVD entertainment, plenty of power outlets and satellite radio are among its key features. The Odyssey has secured a perfect five-star rating in government front- and side-impact crash tests. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety test results are equally impressive.

 

Performance

 

A 3.5-liter V6 that makes 244 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque powers the 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring. The available Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) automatically disables two or three cylinders when cruising or decelerates to increase fuel economy. When the VCM is on, a green "ECO" light in the gauge cluster indicates that the engine is running a few cylinders short. A five-speed automatic transmission shifts the gears swiftly and easily.

 

Acceleration in the Odyssey is a bit slower with a 0-60-mph time of 9.1 seconds, but the instant throttle response and heavily built engine make it seem quicker. Fuel economy is better than its competitors with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in city, 25 mpg on highways. The suspension is solid and better and the Odyssey handles the curves amazingly well. Steering is also well weighted and accurate.

 

Comfort

 

The Odyssey has sufficient space for all passengers. There is no wind noise but that does not make it quite like competitors. The legroom and headroom are adequate even in the third-row seats. The driving position is more like a delivery truck than a car but it is suitable for the drivers, even on long trips. An eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with a tilt-and-telescoping wheel and adjustable pedals is available.

 

The 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring’s styling is ordinary like most of the traditional minivans and the floor height is the same as a passenger car. However, the roof is placed high and it makes the passenger access easy and paves way for a larger cargo space. The cabin is simple and may look dated for some people but the hard plastic materials used here can be easily cleaned and are long-lasting.

 

The Odyssey scores in terms of utility and allows for multiple configurations to handle varying passenger and cargo combinations. There is an impressive 38 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row seats. One can even flip down one or both sides of the 60/40-split seats for more cargo capacity (Maximum 147 cubic feet).

 

Function

 

Large windows and narrow roof pillars are visible given the Odyssey’s large proportions. Parking and reversing have been simplified with the short sloping nose, tilt-down side view mirrors, proximity sensors and rearview camera. A convex conversation mirror, placed above the rearview mirror, allows the driver to see the passengers sitting in the rear seat without turning around.

 

The 2009 Honda Odyssey Touring is full of electronic features that can be controlled from the driver seat. There are nearly 100 buttons, knobs and switches within the driver’s reach (excluding the touch screen buttons). Sometimes you may need to go through the manual to find correct settings. The upgraded 360-watt stereo’s quality leaves a lot to be desired and there is no iPod facility. The storage space is adequate with twin gloveboxes, smaller bins and a folding center tray.

 

No other vehicle can match the Odyssey's combination of drivability, extensive features, safety and versatility in its class. If you require more cargo space than an SUV or want to take your wife and kids on a long trip, the 2009 Honda Odyssey is a good choice.

 

The 2010 Infiniti QX56 is a four-door, up to eight-passenger full-size luxury SUV available in two-wheel and four-wheel drive models that offer an outstanding combination of refinement, roominess, advanced technology and power providing maximum utility and all-season versatility.

 

The QX56 is motivated by an advanced drivetrain, featuring a high-strength steel frame and standard 5.6-liter V8 engine. Its sophisticated body design is marked by a distinctive chrome "waterfall" style grille, High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights, Infiniti-style LED taillights, power sliding moonroof and power-operated rear liftgate.

 

Power and performance

 

The 2010 Infiniti QX56 has one of the strongest engines Infiniti has ever built: a 5.6-liter V8 that makes a formidable 320 horsepower and 303 lb-ft of torque mated to an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimated fuel economy for 4WD models stands at 12/18 mpg city/highway and 12/17 for 2WD models.

 

The QX56 offers a decent 20 cubic feet of luggage room with all three rows in use and the maximum cargo capacity available when the second and third row seats are folded down is 97 cubic feet.

 

The QX56 hauls up to 8,000 lbs, and the 2WD hauls up to 9,000 lbs when properly equipped. This capacity comes from its truck-based chassis, lower gear ratios and auto-leveling rear suspension that adjust for the added weight of a trailer and cargo.

 

Body and styling

 

High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon automatic on/off headlights, 9-spoke 20-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels with 275/60R20 all-season tires, front fog lights, power sliding tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade, power rear liftgate with flip-up window, UV-reducing tinted glass and LED taillights are standard on the exterior of both models.

 

Inside, dual zone front automatic temperature control system, rear zone temperature control, power windows, remote keyless entry, 10-way power driver's seat including 2-way power adjustable lumbar support, leather appointed seating for all three rows, wood and leather trimmed interior, heated steering wheel, Bose premium audio system with 12 speakers, XM satellite radio, second-row captain's chairs, 60/40-split power folding third-row seats and 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for music storage and playback are standard.

 

The available Infiniti Mobile Entertainment System Package adds front console-mounted DVD player, ceiling-mounted 8-inch monitor, remote control, two wireless headphones and auxiliary audio/video inputs to the Infiniti QX56. Body-color splash guards (4-piece) and Brake Assist with Preview Braking are optional.

 

Safety features

 

Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), side-impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags, rollover sensor, active head restraints, seat belt pretensioners, LATCH system, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system, brake assist, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), traction control, TPMS and vehicle dynamic control are standard safety and security features.