Car Prices Blogs - April, 2012

Car Price Comparison: Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra

April 30th, 2012

We will now make a comparison between the Ford Focus and the Hyundai Elantra, two of the best compact cars that money that can buy.

You might be asking yourself: why choose the Focus and the Elantra, and not include the equally talented Chevy Cruze, Mazda 3, or Honda Civic into the mix?

There are two reasons for this:

1. There is no doubt that the Ford Focus changed the way on how people will perceive a compact car. The Focus has the kind of road behavior that can only come from the best European marquees. We are not saying that the Chevrolet Cruze or the Mazda 3 is inferior in terms of the Focus (the Mazda 3 is related to the Ford Focus, after all), but there is no question that the Focus is still the benchmark when it comes to designing and engineering a modern compact car; and

2. The Hyundai Elantra managed to overtake the competition when it comes to styling and perceived value. It also happens that the Elantra is one of the newer entrants in the compact department (we wanted to include the Dodge Dart but we will do that in the near future.)

The Ford Focus (especially in hatchback form) can attend to the needs of the young and the “young-at-heart”. Strangely enough, the same can be said for the Hyundai Elantra–albeit with a lower price tag.

Engine and Powertrain

The Focus is powered by a stout 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 160hp. This engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or a high-tech 6-speed dual clutch automatic. The Hyundai Elantra is motivated by a smaller 1.8-liter 4-cylinder that produces 148hp (145hp in California models). The engine can be controlled via a 6-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. The Focus can deliver more linear acceleration than the Elantra, with the Focus reaching 0 to 60 MPH in 8.7 seconds, compared to the Elantra which completes 0 to 60 MPH in a decent 9.4 seconds

Fuel Economy

The Focus achieves an average of 38mpg to 40mpg in highway driving. The Hyundai Elantra can easily achieve 40mpg in highway driving.

Equipment Levels

The Focus comes equipped with air-conditioning, keyless entry, power accessories, and a 4-speaker audio system in base S trim. The Hyundai Elantra gets more standard equipment for the price, including a 6-speaker audio system with satellite radio, a trip computer, full power accessories, and keyless entry.

Safety

Both the Ford Focus and the Hyundai Elantra were named into the IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012. Both cars managed to garner the highest score of ‘Good’ in front-offset, side-impact, and roof integrity tests.

Price

This is perhaps one of the brightest merits of the Hyundai Elantra, as it starts at only around $16,695. In the meantime, the Focus starts at around $18,300.

Choose the Ford Focus is you want a spacious and fun-to-drive compact car with solid on-road dynamics. The Hyundai Elantra is the best choice if you are looking for an economical, safe, and stylish city car.

Car Price Comparison: Toyota Prius and Lexus CT 200h

April 23rd, 2012

Hybrid cars are here to stay. Hybrid vehicles are not only quiet, refined, and fuel-efficient, but they are also fun to drive as well. Ever since the introduction of the Toyota Prius in the US automotive scene, this car has proven once and for all that it is possible to make a reliable and dependable hybrid car, without sacrificing interior comfort and design.

Enter the Lexus CT200h. When it comes to luxury, Lexus cars are one of the best–and one of the most expensive as well. But the CT 200h is different. Many might say that the Lexus CT is just a more plush version of the Toyota Prius, but this is not the case. The CT is properly sporty, with a revised suspension and a lower stance compared to the Toyota Prius.

As an added bonus, it just so happens that the Lexus CT 200h is the cheapest Lexus model in the lineup.

Both cars are made by Toyota, and both cars cater to the same market. But can the Lexus CT 200h justify the more expensive price tag over the Toyota Prius?

Engine and Power Train

The Toyota Prius is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors, which is the same with the Lexus CT 200h. Both vehicles produce 134hp. Even though the Lexus was designed for sportier driving, the Prius is marginally faster when it comes to acceleration, hitting 0 to 60 mph in 10.1 seconds, compared to the Lexus’ 10.4 seconds.

Fuel Economy

The Toyota Prius is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in America, achieving an impressive fuel mileage of 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. The Lexus CT 200h achieves 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The Prius is more fuel efficient, but the Lexus is heavier and has larger wheels and tires. Besides, not many cars can achieve the fuel mileage of the Lexus CT 200h.

Equipment Levels

The Lexus CT 200h comes with a premium badge, hence it is expected to come with more standard equipment. Available in two trim models, the base CT already comes with large and lightweight 17-inch alloys, keyless entry, a dual zone climate control system, Bluetooth, a power adjustable driver seat, and a 6-speaker audio system.

The Toyota Prius is not short on features, either. Base models come equipped with automatic climate control, trip computer, heated power mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Safety

The Toyota Prius has an impressive list of safety features that includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a knee airbag. The Lexus CT 200h has the same level of safety features as the Toyota Prius but adds a passenger-side knee airbag, the Vehicle Proximity Notification System that alerts pedestrians on the presence of the whisper-quiet Lexus, and the Safety Connect telematics feature.

Price

The Toyota Prius starts at around $23,000 while the Lexus CT 200h starts at around $29,000. If you need a hybrid car for the family, then the Toyota Prius is a wiser and more economical choice. But if you need a personal hybrid car that is sporty, luxurious, and refined, then the Lexus CT 200h should be your top pick.

Find and compare hybrid car prices before approaching the dealer so you can easily figure out the right hybrid vehicle for your needs and budget.

The 5 Best Luxury Cars to Buy for 2012

April 16th, 2012

Luxury cars are on top of the food chain, followed closely by the large luxury SUV. Not including ultra expensive sports cars and super cars, luxury cars are the epitome of engineering, comfort, and prestige.

Luxury cars can come in all sizes and shapes, but the 5 best luxury cars in our list are those that pushed the boundaries of performance, style, and plush comfort.

Here are the 5 best luxury cars to buy in 2012:

1. Audi A6/Audi A7

The Audi A6 and A7 deserves to be mentioned in the same breath because they are both designed with supreme luxury in mind. However, the difference lies in the design. The A7 is obviously designed for a different type of buyer, one who prioritizes art and engineering over practicality. The redesigned Audi A6 is even better than before. It is lighter, faster, and more fuel efficient than the old A6.

2. Cadillac CTS-V

The Cadillac CTS-V is special, because it successfully bridged the gap between a full-on luxury car and dedicated sports car. The CTS-V was honed on the German Nordschleife, displaying incredible composure and handling even on the most demanding of roads.

3. Lincoln MKS

The Lincoln MKS is designed and engineered to please the senses. It is not the best handling car in the group, but it delivers a cushy ride, supreme driving silence, and a bevy of high-tech standard features for the price. The Lincoln MKS is American luxury redefined.

4. Jaguar XF

No one ever thought that Jaguar would once again reign supreme in the luxury segment. In all honesty, the new Jaguar XJ also deserves special credit for being one of the most stylish and comfortable luxury cars in the market today. However, the Jaguar XF is able to deliver the same kind of refinement and performance as the XJ, but for a lower price. The XF is modern, luxurious, and beautiful in true Jaguar standards.

5. Mercedes-Benz E-class

When it comes to luxury, the Mercedes-Benz E-class is a brilliant choice. It now also comes in coupe and convertible versions, enabling you to experience true German luxury in any kind of body type. The Mercedes E-class is the benchmark of a true luxury car. It rides smoothly and quietly even on pockmarked roads, with the kind of ride comfort that can only be described as plush.

Remember to compare luxury car prices online to easily find the best deals and the best offers from a dealer near you.

The 5 Best and Most Affordable Large SUVs of 2012

April 9th, 2012

If the modern pickup truck is choice of the average American car buyer, then there is always a demand for large SUV’s. Say what you want about their heavy bodies and equally gargantuan engines, but the SUV can take on a wide variety of roles that your normal car simply cannot.

Can you tow heavy loads with your fuel-efficient compact car? Can you go off-road in a large sedan? Probably not. But the good news is that modern large SUV’s have been honed and refined to deliver acceptable levels of fuel economy. These macho machines may not be the last word in fuel economy, but they fulfill heavy duty jobs with utmost ease and comfort.

Here are the 5 best and most affordable large SUV’s of 2012:

1. Ford Expedition

Simply said, the Ford Expedition is a capable and comfortable SUV. It remains to be cavernous, ergonomic, and luxurious all at the same time. The Ford Expedition can do it all: it can tow up to 9,400 lbs. and it can carry eight passengers in luxurious comfort. The Expedition is a valid excuse to spend your $37,600.

2. Chevrolet Suburban

When it comes to large SUV’s, it is hard not to include the Chevrolet Suburban into the conversation. Similar to the Ford Expedition, the Chevrolet Suburban is a true truck-based SUV. It was built to withstand the rigors of heavy duty work and countless hours of demanding driving. On the inside, the Suburban presents a very comfortable passenger compartment, made better by the smooth and fuss-free ride. The Suburban presents good value at $42,220.

3. GMC Yukon

Starting at a base price of $40,000, the GMC Yukon allows you to experience American luxury without spending a lot of cash. The GMC Yukon has superb fit and finish both on the outside and inside the cabin. You will instantly get the feeling that the GMC Yukon is a superbly-built SUV right from the very moment that you enter the cabin.

4. Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota line of cars and SUV’s are all known for one particular attribute: reliability. But it so happens that Toyota SUV’s are refined and extremely durable as well. The Toyota Sequoia is big, spacious, and capable of lasting hundreds of thousands of enjoyable driving miles. The Sequoia is also quiet and serene on the highway, making it the perfect family vehicle in the $40,000 price range.

5. Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevy Tahoe starts at only $38,700 and is a solid pick in the large SUV category. The Tahoe is perfect for medium to large families and it has the ability to carry seven passengers in true comfort–with enough legroom and headroom to fit real adults in the third row seats. The Tahoe is quiet and smooth on the highway but equally capable when it comes to challenging dirt roads.

In these tough times, it is still possible to buy a large SUV without investing all your life’s savings. Remember to compare large SUV prices to effectively determine the right SUV for your budget.

Car Price Comparison: Ford Flex versus Toyota Highlander

April 3rd, 2012

The Toyota Highlander is still a valid contender in the midsize SUV category. However, the Ford Flex dares to add a dose of style and advanced driving dynamics into the niche. Let us see how the Toyota Highlander fares against the Ford Flex.

Price

The Ford Flex starts at around $30,800 and the Toyota Highlander has a base price of $28,200. The Flex is more expensive, but it does have unique styling and an overall premium feel compared to the Highlander.

The base model Ford Flex also comes with additional equipment such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking sensors, and a power operated driver’s seat.

When it comes to cost, the Highlander wins because it has a more affordable base price. But if you don’t mind paying an additional $2,000 or more for more style and added features on the Ford Flex, then you will not be disappointed either.

Safety

Both the Ford Flex and the Toyota Highlander were named to the 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick in the midsize SUV category. Both vehicles come standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and a host of airbags for better crash protection.

Power, Performance and Fuel Economy

Both vehicles were not designed for all-out performance, but engine power will determine how well the vehicle reacts to a slight push of the pedal, and will also affect fuel economy.

In this regard, the Ford Flex gains an advantage over the Toyota Highlander. The base model Ford Flex comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 285hp and 25 MPG highway. The base Highlander is powered by a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187hp and 25 MPG highway. If you choose the more expensive Highlander with the V6 engine, you can only muster 270hp and 24 MPG highway.

Interior Space and Overall Comfort

The Ford Flex has a more unusual, unique, and premium exterior design over the Toyota Highlander, and this trend continues inside the interior. The Flex is incredibly roomy for seven adults, and the third row seat was designed to fit real human beings. The cabin is also wrapped in soft touch plastics that further enhance the premium feel.

The Toyota Highlander provides vast amounts of space in the front and in the back, but it lacks room in the third-row seats, making them only suitable for children or vertically-challenged adults.

The Ford Flex is comfortable to drive, and the suspension is able to soak up and muffle unnecessary road noise from entering the cabin. The Toyota Highlander is also comfortable to drive, but the Ford Flex has sharper steering that makes it totally fun to drive.

The Toyota Highlander is a solid choice if you are looking for a competent, versatile, and reliable family SUV. On the other hand, the Ford Flex is ideal if you are looking for something different and more fun to drive, without losing the capability to carry the entire family.

Find the lowest new car prices for the Ford Flex and the Toyota Highlander in under a minute, so you can instantly figure out which vehicle is better suited for your needs and budget.