World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2006 - 3rd Place - Buick Lucerne

3rd Place - Buick Lucerne

Review
Buick's campaign to remake itself as an American version of Lexus began last year with the LaCrosse, which was a valiant effort flawed by somnambulant styling. In developing its new Lucerne flagship, which effectively replaces both the aged Park Avenue and the LeSabre, Buick continued its case of Toyota envy by benchmarking the Avalon and the ES330. Slide into the Lucerne's driver's seat, squint at the creamy, finely stitched leather and the close tolerances of the interior trim pieces, and you might actually think you're in one of those cars. Run your hands over the plastics, though, and you'll realize that the materials are, alas, not quite as rich as the Avalon's.

Yet despite its considerable heft, the Lucerne is more entertaining to drive than the floaty Avalon, thanks to firmer damping and better body control, particularly in the CXS model, which offers magnetic ride control and has the same Northstar V-8 as the far more expensive but mechanically identical new Cadillac DTS. (GM's old 3.8-literV-6 is standard in the $26,990 CX and the $28,990 CXL.) GM aimed at Lexus with the Lucerne, but the bull's-eye turned out to be Cadillac.

Specification
2006 Buick Lucerne Performance
- 3,791 cc 3.8 liters V 6 front engine with 96.5 mm bore, 86.4 mm stroke, 9.4 compression ratio, overhead valve and two valves per cylinder L26
- Unleaded fuel 87
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 28 and EPA city (mpg): 19
- Multi-point injection fuel system
- 18.5 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 147 kW , 197 HP SAE @ 5,200 rpm; 227 ft lb , 308 Nm @ 3,800 rpm

2006 Buick Lucerne Handling
- Four-wheel ABS
- Four disc brakes including two ventilated discs
- Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
- Immobilizer
- Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
- Strut front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2006 - 2nd Place - Chevrolet Corvette

2nd Place - Chevrolet Corvette

Review
Often referred to as America's only true sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette is one of the world's best known and longest-running nameplates. Oddly, it had a rather humble beginning, starting life back in 1953 with a straight-6 engine and a two-speed automatic transmission. The first few years saw the fiberglass-bodied two-seater from Chevrolet earn praise for its handling but criticism for its relatively tame performance. (At the time, it was soundly outgunned by a variety of European sports cars in terms of performance.)

Thankfully, a V8 engine option debuted in 1955, and by the late '50s, the Chevy Corvette could hit 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. The intervening decades have seen the Corvette pass through multiple generations. Each decade has brought its own Corvette theme, including the muscle-bound '60s, the highly stylized '70s and the electronically aided '80s. More recently, the Chevrolet Corvette has improved enough in the refinement department that many finally consider it worthy to compete against the world's best.

Highlights of the Corvette's timeline include the '57 Fuelie (the nickname for the optional fuel-injected 283 V8), the '63 Sting Ray split-window coupe, the 1965-'67 big blocks (396 and 427-cubic-inch V8s), the high-revving LT-1s of the early '70s, the ultra-high-performance ZR-1s of the early '90s and the fast yet user-friendly C5s (fifth generation) of the late '90s. Of course today's Corvette, an outright bargain when compared to sports cars from Europe, should be acknowledged as well. The current Corvette offers the performance of an all-out exotic at a third to a quarter of the price.

Specification
2006 Chevrolet Corvette Performance
- 5,967 cc 6 liters V 8 front engine with 101.6 mm bore, 92 mm stroke, 10.9 compression ratio, overhead valve and two valves per cylinder LS2
- Premium unleaded fuel 91
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 28 and EPA city (mpg): 18
- Multi-point injection fuel system
- 18 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 298 kW , 400 HP SAE @ 6,000 rpm; 400 ft lb , 542 Nm @ 4,400 rpm

2006 Chevrolet Corvette Handling
- Four-wheel ABS
- Cornering brake control
- Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs
- Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
- Immobilizer
- Rear limited slip differential
- Stability control
- Wishbone front and rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and leaf springs

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2006 - Winner- Lexus GS450h

Winner- Lexus GS450h

Review
Lexus is adding another weapon to their green-leaning arsenal as they unveilthe GS450h sedan, scheduled to reach dealerships in the spring of 2006. Itjoins Lexus's own RX400h SUV as the only luxury vehicles to offer theimproved fuel economy and eco-friendliness of a hybrid powertrain.

Lexus also touts the GS450h as the first rear-wheel-drive car to receive thehybrid treatment.
The new sedan will be powered by an electric motor mated to a 3.5-liter V-6 and it shouldboast the same sporting dynamics as the more plebian GS. The powertrain wasdeveloped exclusively for this car with athleticism in mind. Lexus claimsthat the hybrid system's performance will match that of a 4.5-literV-8--"it will produce substantially more than 300 hp and achieve 0-60 mph in well under sixseconds"--while returning gas mileage that equals that of a typical 2.0-literfour-cylinder engine. Combined fuel economy will likely fall somewhere in thehigh twenties.

Like the RX hybrid, the GS450h represents the top-of-the-line within its ownmodel range and, as such, will boast more standard equipment than non-green versions.Lexus says, however, that since the GS is already "extremely well-equipped,"the difference in spec will be less than that between the RX330 and RX400h. Expect a price premium of at least $5000-$6000 over similarlyoutfitted, non-hybrid GS430s.

Lexus plans to market the GS hybrid not on its environmentally friendlypowertrain, but rather its high-performance characteristics, and says that theprospect of spending less time--not money--at the pump will be what draws buyers to the GS450h.

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2005 - 3rd Place - Acura RL

3rd Place - Acura RL

Review
The latest RL sports a face-lift that shows off Acura's latest controversial design language. The front grille, in particular, has been described in rather unflattering terms, as a bagel slicer and the snout of an elephant seal.

Better news is under the skin, where a 3.7-liter V6 makes 300 horsepower and an advanced all-wheel-drive system gives the RL enhanced traction and handling abilities. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard.

Although it doesn't offer the posh reputation of other luxury vehicles, the Acura RL nevertheless features a classy, sumptuous interior adorned in high-quality materials, leather and real wood trim. The dash is awash in buttons, but they serve a welcome alternative to the navigation system's iDrive-like control knob and voice commands. The RL's 10-speaker surround-sound stereo with six-CD/DVD audio changer, satellite radio and optional iPod integration is one of the best in the business. An optional Technology package includes a voice-activated navigation system.

In road tests, we found that the Acura RL gets better the harder it's driven thanks to the SH-AWD system that tenaciously maintains traction. The ride is tuned more on the cushier side of the spectrum, so despite offering notable handling abilities, it is still principally designed to be a comfortable cruiser. Our chief complaint has been a lack of low-end grunt. Unlike its competitors, the RL is not offered with a V8.

Specification
2005 Acura RL Performance & Efficiency Standard Features
- 3,471 cc 3.5 liters V 6 front engine with 89 mm bore, 93 mm stroke, 11 compression ratio, overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder
- Premium unleaded fuel 91
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 26 and EPA city (mpg): 18
- Multi-point injection fuel system
- 19.3 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 224 kW , 300 HP SAE @ 6,200 rpm; 260 ft lb , 353 Nm @ 5,000 rpm

2005 Acura RL Handling, Ride & Braking Standard Features
- Four-wheel ABS
- Brake assist system
- Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs
- Electronic brake distribution
- Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
- Immobilizer
- Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
- Stability control
- Wishbone front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2005/acura/rl/specifications/index.html#ixzz0cPNApP75

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2005 - 2nd Place - Chrysler 300

2nd Place - Chrysler 300

Review
The Chrysler 300 is a large five-passenger sedan with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. It's been designed to appeal to consumers desiring something with a bit more personality than a regular family sedan or an alternative to popular Japanese or European entry-luxury sedans. Some of the 300's underlying mechanicals are derived from Mercedes-Benz technology, and it's a platform sibling to the Dodge Charger.

The 300's styling is unmistakably American. The large chrome grille, double-lens headlights, high beltline, bulging fenders and big wheels give it a strong presence on the road. A long 120-inch wheelbase shortens up the front and rear overhangs and opens up plenty of occupant space on the inside. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions, and the 300 offers more legroom than most of its competitors. Its overall interior design has been described as simple but elegant. The dash area effectively combines sporty, semi-retro and luxury motifs.

The Chrysler 300 comes in LX, Touring, Limited, "C" (labeled the 300C) and SRT8 trim levels. Though budget-oriented consumers might be attracted to the LX model's low price, we suggest stepping up to either the Touring or the Limited, as these trim levels come with the type of standard features expected for this class of car. The 300C and SRT8 versions are the performance-oriented models. The main difference between the two is that the SRT8 version has been tuned and equipped for maximum performance, though the 300C Heritage package narrows the handling gap by equipping the 300C with a sport-tuned suspension and steering. For rear-drive Touring and 300C models, Chrysler also offers the W.P. Chrysler Executive Series. This model rides on a 6-inch-longer wheelbase and provides additional legroom for rear-seat passengers.

For power, the base 300 relies on a weak 178-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Touring and Limited trims have a 3.5-liter, 250-hp V6 and a five-speed automatic. The top-shelf 300C and 300C SRT8 feature V8 engines with five-speed automatics. The 300C's V8 makes 359 hp, and the SRT8's boasts 425 hp. The SRT8 also features a stiffer suspension setup, more powerful brakes and a larger wheel-and-tire package. Most 300s are rear-drive, but Chrysler offers all-wheel-drive versions of the Touring, Limited and 300C.

In Edmunds.com reviews of the Chrysler 300, the car has fared quite well. Our editors have commented favorably on its masculine good looks, powerful V8 engines, long list of safety features and value for the dollar. Negatives are few but focus on the meager output of the base model's V6 and the car's poor outward visibility. Those desiring maximum fun will no doubt be pleased with the 300C SRT8, which can hit 60 mph from a standstill in just 5.7 seconds.

Specification
2005 Chrysler 300 Performance
- 2,736 cc 2.7 liters V 6 front engine with 86 mm bore, 78.5 mm stroke, 9.7 compression ratio, double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder EER
- Unleaded fuel 87
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 28 and EPA city (mpg): 21
- Multi-point injection fuel system
- 18 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 142 kW , 190 HP SAE @ 6,400 rpm; 190 ft lb , 258 Nm @ 4,000 rpm

2005 Chrysler 300 Handling
- Four disc brakes including two ventilated discs
- Immobilizer
- Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
- Wishbone front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , multi-link rear suspension independent with coil springs

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2005 - Winner - Toyota Prius

Winner - Toyota Prius

Review
As with many of Toyota's vehicles, the Prius has become a standard-bearer in its segment. While many automakers have yet to even develop a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle, Toyota is already on its third generation of the Prius. This four-door hybrid has become a hit with consumers because of its stellar fuel economy, relatively uncompromised driving and acceleration characteristics and reasonable price.

The Toyota Prius (its name comes from Latin and means "to go before") exists as a partial solution to the automobile's problem of tailpipe emissions. The Prius, like other hybrid vehicles, has a special powertrain that combines a gasoline-fueled internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This powertrain, along with other advanced features, allows the Prius to deliver higher fuel economy and lower emissions compared to regular cars.

Due to its popularity and relatively long sales history, Toyota's original hybrid car is a strong candidate for a shopper interested in a used hybrid vehicle. So far, it seems Toyota's reputation for reliability and durability is holding true for the Prius. Early concerns about long-term durability have turned out to be mostly unfounded. However, potential buyers of a used Prius should take extra care during the research process. As the Toyota Prius is quite complex, future repairs and part replacements could be quite expensive.

Specification
Toyota Prius Base Hatchback Performance & Efficiency Standard Features
- 1,497 cc 1.5 liters in-line 4 front engine with 75 mm bore, 84.6 mm stroke, 13 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder 1NZ-FXE
- Electric fuel with additional unleaded 87
- Fuel economy EPA highway (mpg): 51 and EPA city (mpg): 60
- Multi-point injection fuel system
- 11.9 gallon main unleaded fuel tank
- Power: 50 kW , 67 HP SAE @ 1,200 rpm; 295 ft lb , 400 Nm @ 0 rpm
- Secondary power: maximum power (kw): 57, maximum power (hp): 76, maximum torque (ft lb): 82 and maximum torque (nm): 111

Toyota Prius Base Hatchback Handling, Ride & Braking Standard Features
- Four-wheel ABS
- Brake assist system
- Two disc brakes including two ventilated discs
- Electronic brake distribution
- Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management
- Immobilizer
- Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
- Strut front suspension independent with stabilizer bar and coil springs , torsion beam rear suspension rigid with stabilizer bar and coil springs

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2005/toyota/prius/specifications/index.html#ixzz0cPGJhYBd

World's Best Cars of The Year Award 2004 - 2nd Place - Mercedes CLS

2nd Place - Mercedes CLS

Review
When it comes to shaking up the luxury car world, no amount of power, technological sophistication or supple leather in the cabin can top an alluring design. More stunning in person than even the most flattering photography might suggest, the coupelike Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class has a visual presence that few other luxury sedans can match. And that is something that's not likely to change for some time to come.

Although the CLS makes use of a number of unique pieces throughout, much of the underlying structure and hardware comes from the well-regarded E-Class. The engines in the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG, for example, are shared with the E-Class and are connected to Mercedes' familiar seven-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability. While its rakish visage does wonders for the CLS's image, it also reduces interior dimensions in several key areas. Up front, the effects are minimal as the CLS feels every bit as accommodating as Mercedes' full-size luxury flagship, but in back, its dimensions are tighter in nearly every direction when compared to more mainstream sedans. Additionally, the high beltline and small rear windows can make occupants feel closed in.

Overall, though, for the luxury car buyer who desires distinctive styling, strong performance and a sumptuous interior, the CLS is easy to recommend.

Specification
Engine
Configuration : 90º V 8
Location : Front, longitudinally mounted
Displacement : 4.966 liter / 303 cu in
Bore / Stroke : 97.0 mm (3.8 in) / 84.0 mm (3.3 in)
Compression : 10.0:1
Valvetrain : 3 valves / cylinder, SOHC
Fuel feed : Bosch Fuel Injection
Aspiration : Naturally Aspirated

Drivetrain
Chassis/body : unitary steel
Front suspension : four link, active body control
Rear suspension : multi link, active body control
Steering : rack-and-pinion, speed sensitive, power assisted
Brakes : ventilated discs, all-round, ABS
Gearbox : 5 speed Automatic
Drive : Rear wheel drive

Dimensions
Weight : 1810 kilo / 3990.4 lbs
Length / Width / Height : 4913 mm (193.4 in) / 1873 mm (73.7 in) / 1390 mm (54.7 in)
Wheelbase / Track (fr/r) : 2854 mm (112.4 in) / 1593 mm (62.7 in) / 1603 mm (63.1 in)

Performance figures
Power : 306 bhp / 228 KW @ 5600 rpm
Torque : 460 Nm / 339 ft lbs @ 2700 rpm
BHP/Liter : 62 bhp / liter
Power to weight : 0.17 bhp / kg
Top Speed : 250 km/h / 155 mph
0-60 mph : 6.0 s