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Auctions are the perfect way to find rare, classic cars
Buying a car at a live auction adds a certain excitement to your vehicular purchase. While it’s often just as exciting making the rounds to your local dealer and hunting down your ideal ride, an auction adds an element of the unknown and that underlying sense of competition amongst you and your fellow auction goers. While the concept of an auction process is not entirely complex, many of us shy away from the excitement — it can be quite intense at times. But, don’t dismiss the idea entirely — you’d be cutting yourself out of a great automotive market.

There are several points you should keep in mind if you do decide to purchase at auction — specifically what rules and regulations apply to specific types of auctions — so read on and get ready to bid.

Government auction
Government auctions offer buyers the potential to bid on vehicles with unique histories, and are open to the public with registration available for free. Following a near-identical format to typical auctions, government auctions are held in about 40 locations across the U.S. and are open to the public.

A bidder can expect to see two types of vehicles at a government auction: 1) Government-seized property (taken by police and law enforcement agencies, the IRS, as well as customs and; 2) Car and trucks used by various government services. While a Bonnie and Clyde special is unlikely to be moving across the auction block, the condition of these seized vehicles can vary significantly and you should be wary of the cars you see up for bid.

Government service vehicles are sold by the United States General Services Administration (GSA) after their leases end, and they can range from full-sized pickup trucks and police cars to commercial passenger buses. As opposed to vehicle seizure auctions, cars and trucks sold by the GSA are generally well-maintained and in good shape. However, take into consideration that former police cars and ambulances have certainly seen some stressful days serving the public. As a final note, keep in mind that buying a vehicle at a government auction is equivalent to an as-is purchase in a store, and you must be prepared for any flaws or damages the cars may come with.

Estate auction
Estate auctions are organized by auction companies representing one client instead of numerous consignments. Often connected to settling assets relating to an individual’s death or financial hardship, estate auctions are often just fancy garage sales for people moving.

You must keep in mind that not every estate auction is going to have a Jay Leno-type car collection to unload, however it is possible to come across some real automotive gems when you least expect it. With that said, you’re limited to one or two chances to prevail in the bidding war that will inevitably ensue. Since estate auctions are one-off opportunities to sell merchandise, this factor could work in a buyer’s favor. Not only are these auctions usually undiscovered by other potential bidders, it is also likely that the condition of the vehicles featured in the auction will be much better than those sold at various other auctions.

Online auction
More efficient and far-reaching than conventional auctions, online auctions are strongly embraced by mainstream consumers these days — hey, who doesn’t want to buy a car from the comfort of their own home? While there’s many online auctions selling automobiles, eBay Motors quickly rose as a front-running alternative for used car classifieds. With just a scroll and click of a mouse, bidders can view ranges of vehicles, from early ’90s Chevy Cavaliers to a classic Chevrolet Corvette. There is no limit to the make or year of cars available online; you just have to be willing to lend the time and effort to perusing through the entire lot to find what you want.

Another major advantage of buying a vehicle in an online auction like eBay Motors is that bidding is free and there are no additional costs or commissions to the buyer. The only fees are paid by the seller, totaling $90, which are the lowest fees of any auction we came across.

Because online auctions are so simple and straightforward, anyone can get in on the action, and it’s that fact alone that can make this type of bidding so problematic. Misrepresentations — such as the seller trying to pass off a lemon as a great buy or failing to list an accidented vehicle — have left numerous bidders with a sour taste in their mouth. And While eBay Motors provides some protection coverage from fraud, you might want to opt for a prior inspection of the vehicle that may save you headaches in the future.

Classic/luxury car auction
Standing on the upper strata of the auction society, classic/luxury car auctions deal prominently with desirable, collector cars of higher quality. While pre-war classic vehicles and supercars were always the main focus at these auctions, baby boomer crowds have made muscle cars a popular draw as well. Unlike the other auctions which sell vehicles below market value, these auctions can actually establish higher market prices for some of the cars featured.

A bidder will pay close attention to every detail before they pay top dollar, and every buyer is looking for a top-quality car to match the price tag. Beyond physical appearance and mechanical worthiness, bidders search for available paperwork including maintenance records and even original dealer invoices to ensure the car’s value. Classic/luxury car auctions are open to the public, but serious bidders are required to pay a registration fee. As well, in order to register for some major auctions, bidders may also need to provide proof regarding finances, such as a Bank Letter of Guarantee.

Barrett-Jackson, along with Russo and Steele, are two premium, annual classic and exotic car auction events that have elite bidders scrambling to attend in Scottsdale, Arizona. Both auctions have remarkably positive reputations of selling top-notch vehicles to their bidders. And Barrett-Jackson uniquely offers 40 hours of live, prime-time television coverage on the Speed Channel as well. This added media attention requires Barrett-Jackson to turn down thousands of potential vehicle entries each year to fit into their multi-day schedule. Unfortunately for many of us, we could only drool last year as a sole surviving 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake was snatched for $5 million, including the 10% buyer’s commission, at a Barrett-Jackson auction.

going once, going twice, sold!
Definitely an emotionally-charged activity, auctions will entice bidders to relax their consumer senses and let their gut take over. Keep in mind, the ones who truly triumph through the auction process will always retain their purchasing savvy and know when enough is enough. Make sure to show up early at the auction, and inspecting the vehicle or vehicles of interest is key to any purchase — you don’t always get the best look at the car when it’s sitting up on display during the auction. Determining the market value of the car, weigh out any additional expenses for repairs and possible taxes that may have to be spent after the purchase. For all auctions, treat the experience like you would a typical used-car buy, but make sure to have some fun with it too.

As you attend your chosen auction, you are ready to look the auctioneer in the eyes and belt out your bid with confidence.

Resources:
www.auctioneers.org
www.autoauctions.gsa.gov
www.barrett-jackson.com
www.businessweek.com
http://en.wikipedia.org
http://pages.motors.ebay.com
www.speedtv.com
www.variety.com

Gas prices are rising, so learn how to save your money
With the constantly soaring gas prices, many drivers wonder if the prices will ever come back to a reasonable level. The next question on everyone’s mind is then: If the prices don’t fall, what will people do? Stop driving and take the bus?

Many consumer advocate groups have started to take action, boycotting certain gas stations in an attempt to pressure the powers that be into lowering prices. While this is a step in the right direction, prices do not magically fall overnight just because of a little pressure. It takes an effort from the countries that export and set prices of crude oil.

And because we, unfortunately, don’t have the individual powers to sway a country’s export decisions, follow the below tips to help improve your gas mileage and save yourself some serious dough.

improve your mileage
Drive less
The first, most obvious solution is simply to drive less. Consider using public transportation, carpooling or even biking to work or school. Think about how fit you will be and how much money you can save by cycling everywhere — while this may be time consuming, it’s worth your health and the money you’ll save.

Do it all at once
Another solution is to run several errands at once. Don’t leave home to go to the store; stop by on your way home from work, for example. Meeting friends at the restaurant? Instead of meeting there, try to go in the same car if it’s convenient.

Don’t let it idle

Park and walk into the fast-food joint instead of using the drive-through. Anytime your car isn’t moving for more than two minutes, turn it off. Leaving the car to idle just wastes gas (this doesn’t apply to rush hour, of course). Not to mention the effects your idling emissions are having on the environment.

Ditch the guzzler
If you are lucky enough to have two cars, use the one that consumes less gas. Yes, this may mean leaving the Navigator in the garage and pulling out the Ford Focus, but it’s worth it. If there are multiple drivers in the house, give the most efficient car to the most frequent driver.

If you can afford it, and are in the market for a new car, a hybrid option is, of course, the best gas-saving driving option. The Toyota Prius and Honda Hybrid have both seen excellent reviews since their releases and will definitely lessen your gas-bill burden.

drive wisely
While the aforementioned tips make for a good start, we also know that you can’t stop driving completely. So it’s time you learned how to drive better. There are definitely some things you can do while you’re behind the wheel that can make a serious difference to your gas mileage.

Slow down
Yes, it is easier said than done, but it will save you a boatload on gas. For every 5 mph you exceed over 55 mph, you lose about one mile per gallon. High revolutions and unnecessarily revving your engine will burn gas faster than you can say “Fill ‘er up.”

Don’t floor it

When the light turns green, stay away from those jackrabbit starts; accelerate smoothly and be gentle on the gas pedal. If you are driving standard, try shifting slightly earlier, as this will keep your revs down.

Use the brakes
For those of you out there who are “shift-it-yourselfers,” avoid engine braking — downshifting to slow the car down instead of pressing the break. Make use of your brakes instead. If you drive an automatic, use the overdrive gear as much as possible.

Know your octane
The octane level you use may also be wasting your hard-earned cash. Most normal engines do not require the high-octane fuels (some are called supreme, extra, gold, etc.). Read your owner’s manual to find out what your car really needs.
more things to consider
How are your tires?
The next thing you should check is the air pressure in your tires and your wheel alignment. I have seen many under-inflated tires that had 10% increases in rolling resistance, all because the owner was too lazy to check the pressure. An alignment that is one-quarter-inch off will bring about a 2% decrease in gas mileage. Furthermore, this will wear out your tires faster, adding more cost to you.

Are you in tune?
Get a tune-up, buddy. Inefficient operation due to misfiring spark plugs, improper fuel system and malfunctioning emission controls can result in up to a 15% loss in fuel consumption.

Go easy on the air
Also, use your air conditioning sparingly, as it’s a drain on your tank. If you must use it, turn off the A/C before you arrive at your destination, and allow the vents to circulate the air in the cooling system, which is likely still cold.

Make your girlfriend walk
OK, I’m kidding. But excess weight will use more of your gas. While a few pounds may not make much of a difference every time you fill up, it can be a factor in the long run, so that “trunk full of junk” should be emptied. Keep only what you need.
for your next car
You may want to consider the following points the next time you buy a car:

Automatic transmissions burn more gas than their manual counterparts.
Vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive or 4×4 options will also hurt you at the pumps.

Any accessories or options you choose can lower overall operating efficiency and add weight to the vehicle.
Larger engines with more horsepower and torque burn more gas, as do turbos, superchargers and other go-faster goodies.

Keep all of this in mind the next time you go car hunting. Hopefully these tips will help you get better gas mileage. Once again, none of these are a cure-all, but use as many as you can and you will see a noticeable difference.

Resources:
www.cartrackers.com

If thinking outside the box is good, driving inside the box must be better. At least that’s the idea with the Honda Element and Scion xB. Along the way, they’ve attracted a wider crowd than their intended Generation Y buyers. The Element and xB are fun and practical — a way to jazz up driving and stand apart without creating irreversible financial damage.

Scion’s parent company, Toyota, announced the end of xB production around the end of 2006, but it will be replaced with a new model in 2008. So why involve a lame duck in a comparison? Toyota intends to keep Scion cycles tight, in part to cope with the short attention spans of young buyers. Even though the xB is going away, we still see it as a competent ride.

So which is the better ride? I decided to get behind the wheel and compare them with a highly scientific formula of driving, poking and prodding. Here’s how they compare.

2007 Honda Element LX
MSRP: $18,900
Engine: 2.4 liter, 16-valve, DOHC In-line 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 166 @ 5,800 rpm
Torque: 161 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
MPG (city/highway): 21/25

Performance - 15/20
The two-wheel drive LX with a five-speed manual transmission makes the most of the 2.4 liter, i-VTEC engine’s 166 horsepower, and allows us to keep the revs high when necessary. Elements with automatics and four-wheel drive inspire less confidence when merging and passing on the highway. However, once up to speed, the engine delivers that typical Honda smoothness. It’s an amazing feat for a four-cylinder engine — even better than a lot of six-cylinder engines in competitors’ vehicles.

Exterior Design - 16/20
For 2007, two- and four-wheel drive EX models feature the scratch- and dent-resistant composite body panels that match the body color. Also, in a nod to the street-tuner scene and perhaps as an attempt to sway would-be Scion xB buyers, the two-wheel drive SC edition is offered. It isn’t more powerful than the standard Element, but it tries to look the part with 18-inch wheels, special bodywork that includes body-colored composite panels and other assorted bling. Overall, the lack of any major changes to the Element is to Honda’s credit since there isn’t much to dislike, assuming the design works for you.

Interior Design - 8/10
Being a Honda, ergonomics are decent, with theater-style seating allowing the rear passengers to get a view of what’s to come. The Element boasts 64-way configurable seating, including fold-flat capability to stretch out and nap. To make the most of its generous 75 cubic feet of cargo space, the rear seats fold up to the side or they can be removed altogether. The clamshell tailgate and cargo hooks further encourage using the space to its full potential. The clamshell rear side doors, on the other hand, are a mixed blessing. Without a conventional B-pillar between the front and rear doors, loading and unloading gear from the sides is convenient. Loading and unloading passengers isn’t as handy, though, since the front doors must be open before the rear doors can operate. Unless everyone’s getting in or out, it behaves like a two-door vehicle. Not a major point of contention, but worth mentioning.

Sound System/Goodies - 6/10
Honda nicely equipped the Element LX for a base price of $18,900. The extensive list of standard features includes a basic CD player with four speakers, air conditioning, cruise control, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and brake assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and front side and side curtain air bags.

Driving Experience - 15/20
I’m lukewarm to the idea of using traditional SUVs for daily duties, but I understand the usefulness of having adequate room when it’s needed. The Honda Element is a great compromise, with more cargo room than a number of sport-utes, good mileage and a cool — if no longer, more edgy — look. Its boxiness doesn’t pose a problem in crosswinds as I first suspected. Actually, it handles well in most conditions — if not amazingly well. Overall, compared to other small SUVs, it feels solid and composed.

Bang For Buck - 16/20
Honda moves so many units because it delivers reliability and value — in other words, lower total cost of ownership. With fewer standard bells and whistles and a more aggressive base price, I suspect a few more people of the Generation Y persuasion would be getting into the Element. Remove the target demographic from the equation and the bang for the buck is respectable. I’d like to see a V6 option, but the Element is a solid choice nonetheless.

Overall Score - 76/100
The Honda Element represents what contemporary SUVs should aspire to be: manageable, stylish, roomy, and practical. All-wheel drive is an option, though the vehicle doesn’t pretend to be raring and ready for mud bogs and sand dunes. It does, however, succeed at its goal of being a modern, youthful, multipurpose vehicle with broad appeal.

2006 Scion xB
MSRP: $14,030
Engine: 1.5 liter, 16-valve, DOHC 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 103 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 101 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
MPG (city/highway): 30/33

Performance - 15/20
If you stumble upon an xB Release 3.0 edition at the dealer, don’t mistake it for a 3.0 liter. The uniqueness of the 3.0 edition is limited to little more than cosmetics, and it still has the standard 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine. If that doesn’t sound like much, you’re correct. The VVT-i variable valve timing is no substitute for supercharging or a turbo, but keep the revs up and the xB feels better-endowed than its 103 horsepower and 101 lb-ft of torque. The Vehicle Stability Control and traction control allow exploration of the xB’s surprisingly decent handling without capping the fun too early. When you do pull in the reins, the ABS brakes are up to the task. I was impressed by their feel and fade resistance relative to other vehicles in this class, and one of my biggest peeves, the front-end plow, was minimal under hard braking. The shifter left me a little disappointed: Without the optional TRD shift kit, it felt less precise than other Toyota products, and the throws were longish, making it somewhat of a challenge to maintain revs in the power band between gears.

Exterior Design - 17/20
With the crosshairs set for Generation Y buyers, Toyota realized that the Scion should be sold in a way that would appeal to its demographic, and not to the demographic that buys Camrys and Land Cruisers. Scion relied heavily on the internet for attracting customers, and once they were in the showroom, sales pressure was virtually nonexistent as cars sold at the advertised price. Since the typical owner is inclined to modify the Scion inside and out, Scion embraced that tendency and offered personalization options straight from the factory.

Interior Design - 6/10
When Scion states that the xB has room for five, it doesn’t mean five defensive linemen. Still, the packaging allows you to schlep four of your moderately proportioned buddies across the city or leave one behind and road trip comfortably. They’ll benefit from theater-style seating, which will keep them perched a little higher than the driver. A curious feature is the off-center control panel on the dash. Scion designed the remaining space in front of the steering wheel for storage, and I’ll admit I got used to that in no time.

Sound System/Goodies - 5/10
I hope you have a steady right foot, because cruise control isn’t available on the xB, and neither are front or rear side air bags. A high note is the standard six-speaker Pioneer CD sound system, which produces decent sound for a vehicle in this price range. At least, for many owners, it’s adequate until they save enough for the thousand-watt multimedia center that they’re inclined to install.

Bang for the Buck - 17/20
Despite the omission of cruise and extra air bags, your money is still well-spent. The base price of $14,000 includes the aforementioned CD audio system, safety and traction control, ABS, and air conditioning. That’s nothing short of remarkable for the money. Watch out, though: You’ll have to exercise restraint with the options if price is a priority. You can add nearly $10,000 to the sticker if you check every option.

Driving Experience - 18/20
Successfully escaping the branding of a “Cute Ute,” the Scion xB has a look only an owner could love. It has an edgy, urban design that hasn’t jumped the shark — Toyota’s pulling it from the market before that becomes a possibility. The xB doesn’t promise ungodly performance, even though it is great to work the little four-cylinder for all it’s worth, and whip it around curves and corners. Obviously, that cuts into the credible gas mileage, but it’s a small price to pay. Best of all, it gives Generation Y buyers a chance to make a statement with new wheels instead of suffering the indignity of a lame hunk of junk.

Overall Score - 78/100
Proving that Toyota did its homework to avoid a Chevy Nova-like error in branding, Toyota gave its youth-targeted brand a cool name that happens to signify exactly what it is: “Scion” means the descendant of a successful family. The xB bridges the gap between coolness and modest means.

and the winner is…
The Scion xB. Close scores for two vehicles with different missions. Both are standouts with attention-getting designs that happen to be extremely practical. No doubt this attracted many of the baby-boomer owners in addition to the intended buyers. Each offers fit finish and materials that are among the best in their class. Reliability is also a shared strong suit. Both are a snap to maneuver in the city and nice on long-distance drives. Behind the wheel, little differences gave xB the edge as a more connected, fun-to-drive vehicle. The Element is a terrific choice for anyone who ventures off pavement now and then, and desires the utility of an SUV without the requisite headaches. The xB is at home on pavement, where 90% of us spend 90% of our time. Even with my gripes regarding the gearshift, the unavailability of some choice equipment and its announced demise, the Scion xB is still the box that rocks.

Resources:
http://autos.aol.com
http://automobiles.honda.com
www.scion.com/showroom/xb/gallery

Every once and awhile, something comes along that takes the world by storm. And while many of these fads are crazes we’d rather forget, there are others that we have fully embraced. The hybrid automobile falls safely into the latter category.

In 2001, the Toyota Prius was released worldwide and it was unlike any other automobile, coming equipped with ultra-low emission technology and relying on electronic power. Die-hard automotive enthusiasts condemned the environmentally friendly hatchback at first, but by 2003 nearly 160,000 units had been manufactured for sale in Japan, Europe and North America. Who would have thought this little green-thumbed vehicle would spawn a wave of new hybrid vehicles?

Today, the Prius, while still No. 1, has direct competition, such as the Honda Civic Hybrid. While the Civic’s engine differs from the Prius’, the antagonism is there and both cars offer the chance to reduce emissions and drive a stylish, functional and affordable vehicle. With Honda’s popularity in the automotive market and the Civic’s strong social status, the Prius better watch out — fads are quick to change.

2007 Toyota Prius
MSRP: $22,175
Engine: 1.5 liter, 16-valve, aluminum DOHC VvT-i 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 76 @ 5,000 rpm
Torque: 82 lb-ft @ 4,200
Motor: Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor
Horsepower: 110 @ 1,200 rpm to 1,540 rpm
Torque: 295 @ 0 rpm to 1,200 rpm
MPG (city/highway): 60/51

Performance - 15/20
The combination of a gasoline and an electric motor is a curious one. While the 1.5-liter gasoline engine only produces 76 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque, the car is surprisingly quick when asked to perform. Thanks to the 295 lb-ft of torque produced by the environmentally conscious electric half, the Prius almost feels normal on the road. Reaching highway cruising speeds and merging with traffic is a breeze when the Hybrid Synergy Drive system kicks it into high gear.

As a traditional manual driver, the only unusual and perhaps slightly disturbing feature on the Prius is its continuously variable transmission (CVT). While some might refer to this system as elegant, smooth and sophisticated, I’d rather describe it as strange and slightly irritating to listen to when driving, thanks to the gasoline engine. Actually, a CVT helps save on gas mileage in the end, no matter how weird it is. However, for that futuristic bit of engineering, the Prius loses a few points.

Exterior Design - 9/20
At first glance, the Prius truly is a Frankenstein mix of European and North American design — and the seams are visible. Perhaps Toyota believed their radical new engine deserved a design so bizarre that it would make the average consumer stop and stare. Their intentions were good, but the outcome was less than desirable.

The bulbous shape and stubby front end of the Prius make the car look cramped and uninviting to taller and larger drivers. Head-on, the Prius has zero personality and the simple design doesn’t do justice to the intricate mechanical feats just below its dull hood. The ho-hum feeling continues along the length of the car to the back end where the hatchback abruptly ends in a mock-trunk design. The taillights are an attempt at style, but the effect is lost thanks to the boring look of this “futuristic” car.

Interior Design - 7/10
At first glance, the interior design seems drab, but a second look will reveal a design that is intriguing and very well done. The lines are clean, the buttons and knobs are all accessible and the centered control panel actually improves the driver’s focus on the road. A navigational package is available, which nicely compliments the interior; however, without it the dash is lacking in personality.

The Prius seats two adults and two kids nicely, but squeeze a couple of adults in the back seat and the suspension suffers. Again, the seats are very simple in design and aren’t made to hold you in place — so hold back on the corners.

Sound System/Goodies - 9/10
The base-model Prius comes nicely equipped with power windows, locks and mirrors; automatic climate control; a steering wheel that features at-your-fingertips audio and climate control buttons; cruise control; trip computer; 15-inch aluminum wheels; and a six-disc CD player. But if all that isn’t enough, Toyota has provided four packages per model that may include options from a backup camera to a voice-activated DVD navigational system.

The standard sound system is typical to any economy car. However, if the soundtrack to your life must be played in full force with ample bass and proper treble, then Toyota offers a package that includes a JBL AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD changer with nine speakers and the ability to playback MP3/WMA files, as well as satellite radio.

Drive Experience - 14/20
I love the idea of saving our environment, but I also love to drive. Unfortunately, that’s where the Prius loses me. It should be a blast to drive because it’s a small hatchback, and hatches usually maneuver easily through traffic — and parking is often a dream — but the lack of power is noticeable when compared to gas-powered cars (not to mention the CVT that’s just plain creepy).

With gas prices what they are, the low mileage is almost enough to make me fall in love with the Prius and forget about gas-guzzling cars… almost. Ultimately, drive experience is just that, an experience.

Bang For Buck - 17/20
The Prius deserves some serious respect for being the first Hybrid Synergy car to hit the market. It may lose points for its exterior design and driving experience, and it may seem a little abnormal, but overall it does what it’s meant to do. Moreover, it comes with a list of standard features longer than some manufacturers’ extras list, and it’s affordable. On the whole, the Prius is an excellent choice for the price.

Overall Score: 71/100
The Prius lost valuable points thanks to its horrendous exterior design and decidedly strange driving experience. While it is the first of its kind and should be given its dues, the Prius still has some room for improvement. New technology often takes a few attempts to get it right. I definitely think Toyota needs to sit down and work on this project; 71% only warrants a B- and I doubt the engineers at Toyota would settle for this final grade.

Civic Hybrid 2007 model

2007 Honda Civic Hybrid
MSRP: $22,600
Engine: 1.3 liter, 8-valve SOHC, Inline 4-cylinder i-VTEC
Horsepower: 110 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 1,000 to 2,500
Motor: Permanent magnet motor
MPG (city/highway): 49/51

Performance - 16/20
Just because a car is fuel-efficient and emission-safe doesn’t mean it should double as a snail on the road. Unfortunately, the Honda Civic Hybrid is a snail. The small 1.3-liter engine has little to give and merging into highway traffic can be difficult. Unlike the Prius that had that nice little kick to it, the Civic just seemed heavier and not as spirited when accelerating.

Also, the Civic boasted the same CVT as the Prius — holding revs steadily as the speed continued to rise. While it makes the ride smooth, it is something that takes some time to adjust to.

For its lack of spirit and strange transmission, the Civic lost some performance points, but the Hybrid makes up for its sluggish behavior with its impressive miles-per-gallon rating, which is noticeably better than the Prius’.

Exterior Design - 16/20
Through the years, Honda has put the Civic under the knife many times. From face lifts to lyposuction, this sedan has had it all. Finally, this sedan reached the pinnacle of vehicular beauty (as far as the Honda Civic is concerned) with its 2006 design.

This time around, Honda has designed a Civic that is noticeable and memorable without over doing it in the least — Toyota should take notes.

From the aggressive front nose to the seemingly raised and stylishly angular back end, the Civic Hybrid is something to behold. The lines of the car are strikingly seductive and the car has an air of speed about it, which will be dismissed once driven.

If this design is any indication of what Honda has in store for the future, they’re definitely on the right track and headed straight for stardom.

Interior Design - 8/10
The futuristic, modern feel of the exterior design flows nicely into the Hybrid’s interior. The dash is nearly traditional and yet it’s upgraded in such a way that it’ll make you stop in awe. The two-tiered, digital read-out speedometer is perhaps the coolest feature and the blue dash lights are just fantastic.

Everything about the dash and middle console is high-tech and forward-thinking in design and functionality. Even the steering wheel has an artsy, modern look to it, yet maintains that gadget-like feel with multiple buttons to keep everything at your fingertips. The bolstered seats and sleek interior doors complete the modern ensemble.

Where the Hybrid loses a few crucial points is the overall size of the dash. When sitting in the driver’s seat of the Hybrid, it is like looking out the windshield of a minivan. The dash just goes on and on. What a waste of space. True, the double-decker dash display takes up a lot of room, but was it necessary to stretch it out that far? It’s not all about length, you know.

Sound System/Goodies - 5/10
Honda always lacks in this area. It’s almost as if they know their cars are one of the top vehicles to modify.

The base sound system is ordinary and lacking in depth, which can be corrected with optional speakers, an eight-disc CD changer, Honda Music Link (for iPod connectivity), and XM Satellite Radio — all for around $1,700.

Overall, Honda doesn’t have any other exciting extras to offer their consumers — save for the navigational package that doesn’t even offer Bluetooth cell phone integration.

Drive Experience - 15/20
Once again, the lack of power that comes with driving a hybrid has caused this vehicle to lose valuable points in driving experience. Overall, the feel of the Civic Hybrid is great; it handles well in traffic, the suspension is good and the steering is responsive. The interior — which is nearly saturated with technology and funky designs — also makes for a pleasant driving experience.

Unfortunately, the CVT rears its ugly head again in this hybrid and causes some discomfort; however, the added fuel efficiency given by this transmission should make up for its apparent strangeness.

Also, the switch from gas to electric is completely flawless. The only indication that the Hybrid is no longer running on gas is a light on the dash indicating the transition has been made. While this light is quite informative and great to have, it also conjures up thoughts of engine trouble each time it flashes and it takes some getting used to.

Bang for Buck - 17/20
Overall, the Honda Civic Hybrid is a nice little package. This sedan lets you save the planet while still fitting in with the masses thanks to its flashy yet nondescript, sedan-like exterior. Honda has had a good thing going with the Civic for years, and the Hybrid is an excellent addition to the family. Brand recognition alone is enough to get the Hybrid to the top, but its styling and engineering will definitely help it along the way. The Civic Hybrid is definitely a force to be reckoned with and worth the money for a great-looking, environmentally friendly ride.

Overall Score - 77/100
Honda did a great job creating a green-conscious vehicle that isn’t so drastically different in design and engineering that it would scare away the average consumer. They definitely deserve a gold star for their exterior design, but lost some serious points with their lack of goodies and the sound system. Honda is continuously lacking in this department and they should take this B grade as a sign that something should be done.

and the winner is…
Trends may come and go, and while some are best left forgotten, others are definitely worth maintaining and improving upon — like the hybrid vehicle. The technology is evolving, changing and improving each year, and Toyota better be ready for it.

Being the first model out there gained the Prius some serious recognition and a band of loyal followers, but other manufacturers are quickly catching on and using the latest technological advances in hybrid engineering to their advantage.

Honda has done just that, and created a formidable opponent to the Prius — and while both are similar in engineering, their personalities might just be what sells it for you. So get behind the wheel and save the planet while you’re at it.

Resources:
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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see two luxury cars pulled off the showroom floor and put head-to-head in a drag race? Though it would be next to impossible to get a dealership to go along with this experiment, the next best thing would be to pit these cars against each other in a “virtual” drag race and see which one would win.

For this first race, I’ve matched up the BMW 328i with the Infiniti G35 because of the already fierce rivalry between them. After all, BMW’s 3 Series have been among the best selling cars in the luxury market for years, but recently, the 3 Series has been challenged by the Infiniti G35 as an entry-level luxury automobile. Given this intensifying competition, I’ve put the 2006 Infiniti G35 in lane one on our virtual track and the 2006 BMW 3 Series beside it in lane two. So get ready to smoke the tires and hold on to your leather seats.

2006 Infiniti G35
MSRP: $31,200
Engine: 3.5 liter, VQ-series V6, aluminum-alloy block and heads
Horsepower: 280 @ 6,200 rpm
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
MPG (city/highway): 18/25

Performance - 17/20
The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 280 horsepower and can launch the G35 from 0 to 60 in six seconds. Not all the credit goes to the engine; the engineers at Infiniti designed this car with overall performance in mind. The 2006 G35’s engine has been moved closer to the middle of the car and aluminum parts were used throughout, which allows the G35 to be larger and taller without excess weight. The G35 is one of the best-handling cars in the luxury market. This Infiniti comes with a standard rear-wheel-drive transmission, but if you want to bump up the handling, you can opt for the all-wheel drive. With this combination of power and handling, it’s clear the G35 is meant to be driven like a sports car and enjoyed like a luxury automobile.

Exterior Design - 15/20
The exterior of the G35 is designed to combine both style and function. The longer wheel base and wider body allows for greater handling while giving the appearance of a high-end European luxury car. Each G35 comes standard with large 17-inch wheels that add to the sense of luxury, but also serve the function of providing a smooth comfortable ride. Overall, the G35 is a beautiful car to look at and will definitely turn some heads.

Interior Design - 7/10
The spacious cabin comfortably seats five people, allowing passengers to enjoy the smooth ride and powerful acceleration. The backseat has plenty of space and gives plenty of leg room for taller adults. Also, the driver’s seat has a special foam pad to support the driver through twisties. Infiniti used high-quality material to construct the interior, but the overall design still needs to be improved.

Sound System/Goodies - 8/10
One of the perks of buying a luxury car is the special features that are not usually included in lower-end models. The G35 comes with its fair share of toys, including a gauge cluster that tilts in tandem with the steering wheel. Also, dual-zone climate control allows everyone to be comfortable no matter what time of year it is. For the tech-gadget lovers, the G35 offers a concealable LCD screen for the navigation system in the center console. And what luxury car would be complete without an automated sunroof and 225-watt Bose sound system? Certainly not the Infiniti, which is equipped with both features.

Driving Experience - 17/20
The G35 combines a powerful engine, a roomy interior and great handling to give the driver an exhilarating ride. The 260 lb-ft of torque launches the G35 forward and throws the driver back into their special foam seat. After your heart rate slows down, you can start to enjoy all the luxury features that make this ride so great. The G35 will allow you to relax and enjoy your daily ride to work or cut loose and let the horses run — the choice is yours.

Bang For Buck - 18/20
Some options available on the G35 can be rather pricey, such as the navigation system or chrome wheels, but the list of standard features is impressive especially when you consider the MSRP is just above $30,000. With standard features like Bluetooth hands-free phone, dual climate control, and a seven-speaker audio system, it’s clear why the G35 is still one of the best priced luxury cars on the market.

Overall Score – 82/100
Though the Infiniti gets high marks for performance and overall driving experience, it still doesn’t match the market leaders in interior design and quality.

BMW 328i 2006 model

2006 BMW 328i
MSRP: $32,400
Engine: 3.0 liter, Inline 6
Horsepower: 230 @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
MPG (city/highway): 21/29

Performance - 18/20
The 328i uses an active steering system to give the driver solid control over the car and to create a very responsive ride. The active steering system controls the front wheels differently depending on steering-wheel movement and the speed of the vehicle. It will also automatically counter-steer if the stability control system senses a slide. The 3 Series also comes equipped with world-class suspension, steering and brake components that allow the driver to use all 230 horses. Essentially, BMW has taken performance above the standard horsepower, giving drivers a level of control that cannot be matched.

Exterior Design - 18/20
The 2006 3 Series was completely redesigned from the inside out. And with these changes the BMW has become a work of art. From the front of the car you can see the aerodynamic design, and as you walk around to the side you notice the beautiful lines that run the length of the body — be sure to take in the 16-inch wheels. After you have completed your walk around the exterior of the car you will agree that the 328i could have a place in an art gallery as well as on the road.

Interior Design - 8/10
Once you sit inside the car, you’ll understand why they say that BMW is the standard by which all other cars are measured. The 3 Series uses high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship in every detail of the interior — from the supportive leather seats to the easy-to-read gauges. Standard features include automatic climate control, one-touch power windows, a power moonroof, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, a CD player, and keyless entry. With all these options to choose from, it’s easy to see why the 3 Series is among the top selling cars in America.

Sound System/Goodies - 8/10
If the list of standard options isn’t enough for you, the BMW offers plenty of extras. These options include onboard navigation system with iDrive for the tech-savvy crowd. For a more safety-conscious driver, the 3 Series offers adaptive xenon headlights, parking sensors, active cruise control, run-flat tires, and active steering. For those who want to go to the next level of luxury, this BMW has leather seating, remote sunroof operation and a Logic 7 sound system.

Driving Experience - 17/20
The BMW 3 Series combines comfort and control with an ample amount of power to create a very luxurious ride. The driver never feels out place on the road no matter how fast or slow the car is moving thanks to its world-class suspension and steering systems. The 3 Series has combined every element of luxury to give the driver a premium ride.

Bang for the Buck - 17/20
When you look at the long list of standard features that come with the car, the 3 Series is well-priced at $32,400. But should you want to go over the top with extras, the bottom line could get expensive really quick. Overall, if you stick with the basic features, you will get a great luxury car for a good price.

Overall Score – 86/100
It doesn’t get much better than the BMW 3 Series when it comes to entry-level luxury.

and the winner is…
The G35 is one of BMW’s main competitors and it’s clear why, but the BMW still has a slight advantage over the G35. Both vehicles offer the driver every luxury imaginable along with great performance, but while the G35 might be more powerful, the BMW gets the edge in overall performance due to the use of technology in giving the driver more control. From the outside, both cars are easy on the eyes, but BMW hit a homerun with the new design of the 3 Series. The G35 wins with regard to the amount of room inside the car, but the BMW still has a better interior design and feel. After crunching the numbers, the BMW edged out the G35.

Resources:
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