Ford Fiesta

The new Ford Fiesta is the first subcompact offered by Ford in the U.S. since its three-door Aspire of the late 1990s. The Fiesta was launched as a 2011 model, in both four-door sedan and five-door hatchback models, and has been adapted from the well-received and very popular model sold under the same name in Europe, Asia, and elsewhere—though North American versions offer more standard equipment than Fiestas elsewhere in the world. The Fiesta competes with the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, and Chevrolet Aveo. Its starting price of $13,995 can rise as high as $23,000 if buyers tick lots of boxes on the lavish lists of options offered by both the factory and Ford dealers. Ford last sold a car called the Fiesta—a subcompact three-door hatchback—in the U.S. from 1978 to 1980, following it with the Festiva three-door (1986-1993) and then the Aspire three-door (1994-1997). The newest iteration for 2011 offers “expressive” and “vibrant” styling inside and out (and bright and cheery exterior hues)—the theme is “energy in motion”—with a dashboard center stack deliberately reminiscent of a mobile-phone keypad. The driver can choose among several different colors of LED “mood lighting” to illuminate the cup holders, footwells, and so forth. The new Fiesta, in either body style, comes with just a single engine option: a 1.6-liter four making 120 horsepower. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, but the automatic option is an unusual and technically advanced six-speed “PowerShift” direct-shift gearbox (DSG). EPA fuel economy ratings rolled in at 28/38 or 29/39, but with a $795 Super Fuel Economy Package (special tires and aerodynamic improvements), the Fiesta's highway rating was boosted to 40 mpg. In reviews of the Fiesta, we noted that the Fiesta steers and handles far better than most softened, numbed appliances its size. However, its narrow body and tight backseat didn't make it as useful as some other vehicles in this class. We weren't fans of the Fiesta's odd, slanted instrument panel, either, and noted some drivability issues with the PowerShift transmission, which wasn't as smooth as we'd hoped. Engine noise can also be an issue, depending on your expectations; it's not bad compared to other subcompacts. Features are a strength of the Fiesta. Even the base $13,995 model includes air conditioning and an aux-in port; while at the SE level you get upgraded trim and lighting. SES Sport and SEL models get upgraded sound, LED driving lamps, and heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, plus big alloy wheels.

2012 Honda Insight

The 2012 Honda Insight ranks 19 out of 41 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Insight, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. The automotive press says the 2012 Honda Insight is designed for shoppers who want a hybrid without an ultra-high price tag. The 2012 Honda Insight is one of the most fuel-efficient affordable small cars on the market, but its high EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings come with a few drawbacks, including an underpowered engine, budget interior and a cramped second row. These traits, however, are characteristic of hybrids and small cars, so as a whole, the automotive press isn’t shocked that the Insight has these issues. The 2012 Honda Insight is available in three trims: base, LX and EX. This year, Honda updated the Insight’s exterior, improved rear-passenger leg- and headroom, tweaked the exterior to improve rear visibility and made some aesthetic adjustments to the center controls. Finally, Honda also fitted LX models with better seat fabric and added more cabin insulation to all models to make the cabin quieter. Honda Insight Performance The Insight has a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor that is paired with a continuously variable transmission. CVTs are designed to improve fuel economy. This powertrain makes only 98 horsepower, so it’s not surprising that many test drivers call the Insight underpowered. All models come with Eco Assist, which helps save even more gas when selected. Drivers say disabling Eco Assist doesn’t help performance. The Insight gets fuel averages of 41/44 mpg city/highway, according to the EPA. Handling and Braking Some test drivers say the 2012 Insight handles like most cars in its class and appreciate that there isn’t much body lean, but one thinks the Insight is a bit sloppy when roads aren’t smooth because the ride is choppy. The Insight has regenerative brakes, which capture the energy produced during braking to recharge the battery. Reviewers don’t mention if this system feels too unnatural compared with traditional brakes, but one does say the brakes are spongy. Honda Insight Interior One of the best aspects of the 2012 Honda Insight’s interior is its Eco Assist system, which tells drivers how fuel-efficient their driving is. Other than that, the interior resembles other hybrid models: It’s good-looking, but has a budget feel, and there isn’t enough passenger space. Honda Insight Safety The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2012 Insight the highest score of “Good” in front, side and rear crash tests and a lower score of “Acceptable” in roof strength tests. These scores make the Insight an IIHS Top Safety Pick. The Honda Insight comes with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control, dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags. All of these safety features are normal for the class. Honda Insight Reliability The 2012 Honda Insight has a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle warranty, a powertrain warranty that's good for five years or 60,000 miles and a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for rust damage. All of these warranties are normal for the class. Honda also covers the battery pack with a warranty, but the length of coverage varies.

Volkswagen Polo BlueGT

VW Polo BlueGT The new Volkswagen Polo BlueGT stands out in its ability to combine superior dynamic performance with extreme fuel-efficiency. The technical highlight of the progressive compact car is the cylinder deactivation system, which is being introduced for the first time in a Volkswagen - also known as active cylinder management or ACT. The system was realised with the new 1.4-litre TSI of the VW Polo BlueGT. The torque-strong TSI develops a power output of 103 kW / 140 PS, yet has a combined fuel consumption of just 4.7 l/100 km/h (equivalent to 108 g/km CO2). If the Polo BlueGT is ordered with the optional 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG), fuel consumption drops further to 4.5 l/100 km - and, bear in mind, this is a petrol, not a diesel (105 g/km CO2). Nonetheless, this car, with a top speed of 210 km/h, accelerates to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds. This uncommon coexistence of efficiency and dynamic performance is enabled by the systematic interplay of ACT, downsizing (reduced engine displacement plus direct injection and charging) and BlueMotion Technology (Stop/Start system, battery regeneration). As such, the Polo BlueGT closes the gap between the Polo 1.2 TSI (77 kW / 105 PS) and the Polo GTI (132 kW / 180 PS). The new car will already on the market in July. New generation of engines The 1.4 TSI in the Volkswagen Polo BlueGT is the top engine of the entirely new EA211 series of petrol engines. These petrol engines and the EA288 series diesel engines, which are also new, are technological pillars of the future Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB). One property shared by all of these engines is an identical mounting position in the car - and indeed across vehicle classes and brands Fuel savings by ACT Even before the MQB is introduced, Volkswagen Polo BlueGT buyers will get to enjoy the new high-tech TSI with cylinder deactivation. Volkswagen is the first carmaker to introduce active cylinder management as a fuel-saving technology in smaller engines - they were previously only known in larger eight or twelve cylinder units. Shutting down the second and third cylinders under low and medium load states reduces fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle by about 0.4 l/100 km. In constant speed driving at 50 km/h in third or fourth gear, fuel savings are as much as one litre per 100 km. But even when driving at 70 km/h in fifth gear, fuel consumption is still reduced by 0.7 l/100 km. ACT mode of operation ACT becomes active at engine speeds from 1,250 to 4,000 rpm, and at torque outputs from 25 to approx. 100 Nm - a broad swath of the operating map that includes nearly 70 per cent of all driving states in the EU driving cycle! When the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the two cylinders are imperceptibly reactivated. The high efficiency certainly does not come at the price of a high level of smooth engine running: even with two cylinders, the excellently balanced 1.4 TSI of the VW Polo BlueGT runs just as quietly with as little vibration as it does when all four combustion chambers are active. All mechanical switchover actions are completed within one half of a camshaft revolution; this only takes between 13 and 36 milliseconds, depending on engine speed. The transitions are smoothed by supporting interventions to the ignition and throttle valve. Ingenious: thanks to an accelerator pedal sensor and intelligent monitoring software, the system can also detect non-uniform driving profiles - such as while driving through traffic or in a sporty manner when driving on a country road. In such cases, cylinder shutoff is disabled. The driver is informed whether two or four cylinders are active by an indication in the multifunction display located between the speedometer and tachometer. ACT camshaft adjustment To further reduce emission and fuel consumption values and improve torque in the lower engine speed range, the intake camshaft was designed to be adjustable over a range of 50 degree crank angle on all EA211 engines; in the 1.4 TSI of the Volkswagen Polo BlueGT, an exhaust camshaft adjuster is added. It adjusts to the desired spread of control times, thereby ensuring more spontaneous response from low revs; at the same time, it also improves torque at high revs. Exterior of the Polo BlueGT The new Volkswagen is clearly distinguished both inside and out. From the outside, it is the new 17-inch alloy wheels with spoke styling, GT signatures at the front and rear (and additional 'BLUEMOTION' at the rear) and new tailpipe trim that are identifying characteristics of the VW Polo BlueGT. In addition, numerous standard features were adapted from the Polo GTI or the Polo BlueMotion. GTI features are the rear spoiler, rear bumper with diffuser, front bumper and fog lights including daytime running lights. BlueMotion elements are the side sills and the front rain channels (outside on the windscreen). The Volkswagen Polo BlueGT is also upgraded by a black painted radiator grille, R-line ventilation screen in the bumper and black door mirrors. Having a positive effect on aerodynamics are the Polo's 15 mm lower ride height and special underbody trim. Interior of the Polo BlueGT Interior features were upgraded by extended functionality of the multifunction display (ACT message and tyre pressure), the GTI instruments, a cruise control system, black roofliner and black pillar trim in GTI style, vanity and interior lights tuned to match, a leather-trimmed sport steering wheel with 'BlueGT' emblem, sport seats in front with newly designed trim (fabric type and colour) as well as various chrome surrounds.

TOYOTA Vios

When style, comfort and convenience matters most, the Toyota Vios instinctively comes to mind. Driven by practicality and engineered for all your needs, the Toyota Vios lets you move in full confidence and satisfaction, making it simply your smart choice. The look of the Toyota Vios meets today's design trends with a bold, youthful and sporty appearance. No matter how you look at it, the Toyota Vios is clearly the smart choice. Be in total control wherever you go. Excellent manoeuvrability, coupled with an efficient engine and transmission system makes the Toyota Vios a truly pleasant and assured drive. Simple, yet truly accommodating, the well-designed interior of this spacious sedan provides uncompromised comfort for you and your passengers, bringing pleasure to every journey. The comprehensive safety features of the Toyota Vios provides uncompromised protection so your entire family can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride as you drive with total peace of mind.

Honda Jazz

The Fit Sport has fast looks and slick style. From the rear roofline spoiler to its aero-zealous face and fog lights, this swift metro acrobat is a certified extrovert. The 2012 Fit Sport also rocks a new grille and front bumper, plus machine-finished, 16-inch alloy wheels and new headlights, all of which cement its status in the world of high style. Drivable Utility Belt!The 2012 Fit Sport shows off with its uptown interior—supportive seats, easy-to-read gauges that illuminate ambient blue at night, 10 beverage holders, an iPod®[2]- compatible USB Audio Interface[3] and an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition[1] for urban tracking. Ample Roominess Facilitator!The 2nd-row Magic Seat® lies flat, revealing more space, and a secret box for hidden storage. Go ahead and stuff the Fit: with 57.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. [1] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on Sport models with automatic transmission in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Please see your Honda dealer for details. [2] iPod® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. iPod® is not included. [3] The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details. Four Cylinders of Silent Thunder!The Fit has a 117-hp, 1.5-liter, 16-valve, i-VTEC® 4-cylinder Engine for quicker acceleration. And with dynamic i-VTEC technology, power and torque are boosted at any engine speed. Metro Dynamo!A performance-oriented suspension makes it quick on the draw with shockingly sporty handling. The steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the available automatic transmission Fit Sport model provides drivers with an engaging on-road experience. Six Airbags.The Fit has standard front, front side and side curtain airbags. Crush ZonesAlong with energy-absorbing crush zones, the ACE™ body structure helps protect occupants in frontal collisions. Honda SafetyThe Fit even has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and active front head restraints, plus Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®)[2] with traction control—just a few more examples of how Honda takes a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety.Honda's Safety PhilosophyHonda is committed to providing safety for everyone—that means crash protection not only for our own drivers and passengers, but also for the occupants of other vehicles, and injury mitigation for pedestrians. We are dedicated to identifying and implementing advanced designs and features that help enhance the safety of vehicles on the road. Learn more. [1] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on Sport models with automatic transmission in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Please see your Honda dealer for details. [2] VSA is not a substitute for safe driving. It cannot correct the vehicle's course in every situation or compensate for reckless driving. Control of the vehicle always remains with the driver. For three decades, Honda has played a leading role in meeting environmental challenges.The Fit is Low Emissions!It's enormously fun-to-drive and small on emissions at the same time. An Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (ULEV-2)[1] rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) says a lot about this little go-getter. Super Efficient Engine!Its 117-hp 1.5-liter, 16-valve, SOHC i-VTEC® engine provides remarkable fuel economy. In fact, the base Fit with automatic transmission achieves 28 city/35 highway mpg[2]. And all Fit vehicles run on regular unleaded gas. [1] ULEV-2 (Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle) models as certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). [2] Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is the Japanese brand's latest crossover compact SUV, competing with the Skoda Yeti and Volkswagen Tiguan. Sporty to drive, the CX-5 is available in both two and four wheel drive, with either a 173bhp 2.2-litre diesel or a 164bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine. Two transmissions are offered, a six-speed manual and a six speed-automatic. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, and there's a large boot. Drivers should expect plenty of kit as standard, including a touchscreen sat-nav device and safety aids, like lane keep assist. Front-wheel drive versions are sure to be popular, offering lower running costs plus a more enjoyable drive. Drive 4.2 /5 The short-throw gear lever has been tuned to feel exactly like the one fitted to the open topped Mazda MX-5 The Mazda CX-5 is available with a 2.2-litre diesel engine, producing 148bhp or 172bhp. These will account for around 85 per cent of sales but a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 163bhp is also available. The diesels are among the smoothest and most refined in this segment and you'll find that even the lower-powered unit has more than enough grunt. The petrol unit sounds good under hard acceleration but is otherwise incredibly quiet and smooth. The diesels are a far better match for the CX-5 though. When it comes to cornering the CX-5 isn't quite as agile as some models on the road but it resists body roll well and the steering is light but responsive. Comfort 4.0 /5 Front chairs offer lots of adjustment, and headroom is generous Once you are settled into the driver's seat, the Mazda CX-5 offers up a clear and commanding view of the road. Front chairs offer lots of adjustment, and headroom is generous. Rear seats offer lots of leg and elbow room – amongst the best in class – while seat materials are soft enough to be comfortable, but not so saggy that they lack support. Overall, the interior is neatly laid out and comes packed with equipment, Mazda also offers an optional touchscreen navigation system, lane keep assist and digital radio in the UK. Reliability 4.0 /5 Components are brand new but should prove reliable The engine and chassis of the CX-5 have been newly developed and are mostly unused in any of Mazda's other vehicles. That means there's really no way to gauge exactly how reliable the components will be but Mazda has generally got a great track record. A whole host of safety gadgets and a solid construction should ensure it gets five stars for crash safety too. Practicality 4.5 /5 Large boot and a few clever touches make the CX-5 hugely practical Boot space is amongst the best on offer, with 503 litres of space. The rear seats fold completely flat with just one switch mounted in the boot to liberate even more space, while a tonneau cover opens and closes with the bootlid ensuring your valuable are always hidden from prying eyes. There's also a large glovebox and useful central compartment for the driver and passenger too. Value for money 3.7 /5 The Skoda Yeti is slightly cheaper The Mazda CX-5 is far from cheap - the range starts at well over £20,000, but it remains good value for money for such a capable car, especially if you go for a cheaper two-wheel drive model. Nevertheless, alongside rivals like the Skoda Yeti and Nissan Qashqai, the CX-5 carries a slight premium. The flagship SportNav trim comes with satellite navigation, heated front seats, 19-inch alloy wheels, full leather upholstery and a Bose audio system as standard. Running costs 4.1 /5 Even the most powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine returns 54.3mpg This is where the CX-5 has a chance to really impress. The lower-powered diesel model matches the cleanest models in this class for CO2 emissions and fuel economy but provides performance that no other eco-specials can match. Fuel economy is over 60mpg and CO2 emissions stand at 119g/km. That's for a front-wheel drive model but a higher-powered diesel with four-wheel drive still manages 54.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 136g/km. The petrol model is the worst of the bunch as you'd expect but it won't cost the earth to run.

AUDI A4

2012 Audi A4 at a glance

The 2012 Audi A4 resides in a competitive compact luxury sector with rivals from Mercedes and BMW breathing down its neck. But the elegant Audi A4 holds its own with superb build quality and class-leading interior space.

2012 Audi A4 quick specs
Body Style Sedan
Class Compact Luxury
Assembled CBU
Engine Range 1798 cc - 1984 cc
Fuel Options Petrol
Seating Capacity 5 .20
Audi A4 ratings (overall rating : 4/5.0)

Styling
If you like how previous Audis look, you will like how the 2012 Audi A4 looks. Audi continued their theme of understated elegance, with touches to refresh the overall look. Of particular attraction is the strip of 14 LED lights which provides the daytime running light function. S-Line package adds exterior bodykit and larger wheels for a more aggressive look. Interior ambience is usual classy Audi with a solid feel to everything.

Handling
With so many changes on the chassis, the high expectation contributed to the slight sense of disappointment. The chassis, shared with the Audi A5 coupe, offers a good drive, with bags of grip, good body control, and a neutral, balanced handling. The redesigned steering system has a good weighting, but is a little unnatural and rubbery in feel. Crucially, though, the 2012 Audi A4 lags the BMW 3-Series in driving excitement, no thanks to its larger size that takes a toll on agility.

Comfort
Ride comfort is only decent. On our roads, it does not truly settle, and large potholes can upset the 2012 Audi A4's composure. Largely quiet on the whole, the interior peace is only interrupted by wind noise at speed. Engine sounds strained when revved hard. Drivers have plenty of steering wheel and seat adjustments to play with. Seats are comfortable. Controls are logically placed, but the many buttons can sometimes be confusing. MMI central control system is still the best among all others.

Quality + Reliability
Audi made its name through sheer uncompromised quality, especially in the interiors. To be sure, all materials are the finest, and fit-and-finish are exemplary. Once again, its the expectation and we somehow expect Audi to be able to move the game on. We are hoping for something more special. According to JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, the previous Audi A4 did not score too well on reliability, getting only tenth out of thirteen places in its class.

Performance
There is only one engine option in the form of the 1.8-litre in-line four. Capable of 160 bhp and 250 Nm, the engine has a certain urgency that complements the handling. The turbocharger and FSI Direct Injection technology certainly helped to add a different dimension to previous engines. The 2012 Audi A4 rarely feels short of power, and some credit has to go to the eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly during city driving or at speed.

Roominess
The longer wheelbase adds more head- and leg- room, making the 2012 Audi A4 one of the largest in the compact luxury class. Front and rear room are ample, accommodating four passengers very comfortably, and five decently. The regular-shaped boot is larger than in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and BMW 3-Series. Rear seats split-fold to increase storage space.

Running Costs
Fuel consumption is rated as 14.1 km/litre, which is much aided by Audi's FSI Direct Injection technology. Like most luxury cars, servicing and repairs would be costly, though Audi models are usually hardy, requiring less repairs in the longer term. Insurance is costly, but road tax is only RM 279.20. Depreciation is likely to be higher than comparable premium rivals.0.51

Value for Money
The BMW 3-Series 320i costs RM 232,800 and the Mercedes-Benz C200K starts from RM 248,888, while the 2012 Audi A4 costs RM 235,000. Audi offers a lot for this money, such as its impeccable quality and elegant styling. But traditionally Malaysians love the three-pointed star, and recently, the twin-kidney grille. So, Mercedes-Benz wins with its brand image, and BMW has the better drive. Make up your own mind.

Equipment
Standard equipment and safety kit are both generous. Audi Drive Select, adaptive lights, daytime running lights in LED, six CD changer, MMI, leather seats, adjustable suspension, gear shift paddles, and bi-xenon headlights plus fog lights are standard. S-Line package adds sport seats, bodykit and bigger wheels. Safety kit includes ABS, ESP and six airbags.

Environment
Audi's FSI Direct Injection technology has lowered emissions to an impressive 169 g/km. Petrol engines emit more carbon dioxide, and if the government is serious in tackling greenhouse gases, more diesels will have to come our way.