The 2012 Kia Optima is an excellent car and an outstanding value that’s available in three four-cylinder iterations. The Optima is by design very versatile and the three distinct engines help broaden its appeal. There’s a powerplant for every driving style and budget.

The Optima was redesigned for 2011. The base 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine was first augmented by the lively 2.0-liter 274 horsepower I-4, which was followed by the introduction of the 2.4-liter gas/electric hybrid engine. read more »

The C-Class is the least expensive Mercedes-Benz in the showroom — but offers nothing less than you’d expect from Mercedes. The 2012 C-Class includes a new coupe, while the sedans underwent a major mid-cycle update. Our test vehicle was the C350 coupe, so this review will be confined primarily to that vehicle. read more »

No other car’s boldly aggressive styling says, “Don’t mess with me” with such eloquent menace as the Dodge Charger. From the belligerent, forward-leaning crosshair grille, and scowling headlights, to the shoebox-sized side windows, the Charger is the perfect police cruiser. Cops love it because its simple presence has drivers pulling over read more »

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is a truly unique vehicle. As such it’s not for everyone, but people that understand and love Jeeps are crazy about the Wrangler. The 2012 Wrangler Unlimited does an excellent job of blending traditional super tough, go-anywhere Jeep attributes with modern technologies and conveniences. The Wrangler doesn’t have the level of luxury found in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but it’s a million miles ahead of its 1941 progenitor — the flat fender military Jeep. It’s a true multi-purpose vehicle. read more »

The “S” in SUV supposedly stands for sport, but given the lumbering size and weight of most full-size SUVs the sporting component can be in short supply. The growing compact SUV segment provides more maneuverability, but often at the expense of horsepower. Passenger/cargo capacity is obviously less in the smaller vehicles, but how often do big rig owners really utilize all that available space? read more »

The high-performance Lexus IS lineup of sport sedans, coupes and convertibles was expanded in 2011 with more all-wheel drive and performance choices. The Lexus IS offers style and performance in three body styles that’s comparable to the BMW 3 Series — for less money.

The Lexus IS 350 now offers all-wheel drive read more »

The Jeep Liberty, true to Jeep’s legendary off-road heritage, is a practical SUV that doesn’t hesitate when leaving the blacktop. It comes with a choice of two Jeep Trail Rated four-wheel-drive systems that offer strong off-road prowess. Reminiscent of the rugged ’90s-era Jeep Cherokee, it’s tall and angular, maintaining its bold, upright styling. read more »

We attended a family wedding in Cannon Beach, Oregon, the last week of September. Weather conditions can vary dramatically (which they did) and we were charged with transporting huge cartons of glassware for the reception centerpieces. We needed full wardrobes to accommodate temperature swings and activities ranging from hiking/beachcombing to dinner parties. read more »

It’s been awhile since I’d driven the full-size Toyota Avalon, but the last time I did, I called it a “budget Lexus,” saying it’s every bit as good, for a lot less money. After driving the 2011 Avalon, my mind hasn’t changed.

The Avalon was supposedly redesigned for 2011, but its V6 engine, 6-speed automatic, and other mechanical components are all carryovers. I’d term it a mild updating, with the interior getting most of the attention. read more »