2013 Buick Enclave

The big Enclave crossover was at the leading edge of a new design direction for Buick, which is perhaps why even though it's been on sale for five years, its cleanly styled, curvy Coke-bottle exterior still looks contemporary. Yet the interior of the current model, with its conservative (and dated) look, now lags behind those of other large crossovers, like that of the Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango.
Now for 2013—and introduced at the New York Auto Show—Buick has rolled out a refreshed version of the Enclave. And it appears to have changed exactly what we thought needed help—the interior—without significantly changing the Enclave's passenger-carrying goodness.

Jumping straight to the driver's seat, the Enclave's cabin gets a full-on facelift, with new trims, materials, and overarching themes that help it fit right in with Buick's other models, like the big LaCrosse sedan. A backlit ridge arcs all the way over the instrument panel, wrapping smoothly around from front door to front door. And the entire center portion of the dash was redesigned, with Buick's touch-screen IntelliLink interface taking the upper position. Below that is an all-new control interface for the tri-zone climate system, with new at-a-glance temperature readouts and larger controls that can be operated with gloves. The steering wheel is accented in real Mahogany, while there's plenty of faux woodgrain elsewhere around the cabin. Most notably, that drab, finely grained hard plastic that was plentiful in the former version has been mostly phased out, in favor of more soft-touch surfaces and 'live stitching.'

The exterior isn't completely carry-over. Buick has also given the front end of the 2013 Enclave a slight refresh, with a new front fascia, a new headlamp design, and a redesigned hood and black-chrome version of the Buick waterfall grille. Headlamps now include standard xenon HID beams, while running lamps and taillamps have gone LED. Wheel designs are new; exhaust outlets are now integrated into the rear fascia, and exterior trims have been changed slightly to represent a 'monochromatic' look, with chrome accents. Otherwise, very little else changes on the outside.

Specs remain the same for the Enclave's powertrain. All models have a 3.6-liter V-6, making 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and it's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of either front- or all-wheel drive. An updated six-speed automatic transmission, with new calibration, could prove a key upgrade, but we'll have to update this with driving impressions as soon as we can get into a 2013. In previous model years, we've found the powertrain to be adequate, even with a full load, but a bit obstinate in the transmission's response.

Ride and handling should also be improved, thanks to new low-velocity control shocks in back, to help reduce road shocks, plus a direct-acting stabilizer bar for the MacPherson strut front suspension to help aid responsiveness. The steering remains a variable-effort hydraulic unit—one that we've been happy with in the current model. And we do hope that the changes make the Enclave feel a little more nimble, as it does currently “drive big.”

Expect the interior layout of the 2013 Buick Enclave to remain mostly the same, and that's just fine. As we say in our 2012 review of the Enclave, seating and flexibility are strengths, and there's room for up to eight, although the third row is a little cramped. There's over 23 cubic feet of space behind the third row, and if you fold the second and third rows there's over 115 cubic feet of cargo space. It all folds down neatly and flat and is just begging for outings to big-box stores.

There's also a safety industry-first in the 2013 Enclave: a new front center airbag, which helps protect front occupants in a side impact. Also, for the first time, a side blind zone alert system and a rear cross traffic alert system are offered in the Enclave, which in its 2012 edition already earned a top score of 10 in safety from us because of its excellent five-star overall NCAP rating plus its IIHS Top Safety Pick status.
IntelliLink is the big news for some shoppers, as it brings the Enclave's interior up to the leading edge in connectivity, with a relatively easy interface (as we've found in other models), well-integrated Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming functionality, and apps for Pandora and Stitcher audio. A rearview camera system, a USB port, HD Radio, satellite radio, and voice recognition are also part of the standard kit, while navigation is optional, as is a ten-speaker Bose sound upgrade.

Buick Regal Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Buick Regal ranks 2 out of 19 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 34 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Regal, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2012 Buick Regal offers performance and comfort at a price that’s less than many competing upscale midsize cars.
Buick refuses to rest on its laurels with the 2012 Regal. Buick introduced two new models into the Regal family for 2012, as well as a revised touch-screen infotainment system that should impress Regal shoppers.
The Buick Regal is the 2012 U.S. News Best Upscale Midsize Car for the Money. It won this award for its low long-term ownership costs and high praise from auto reviewers, as well as its nimble handling and comfortable interior. All of these attributes make it a good value in its segment. The Regal is also the 2012 U.S. News Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families. This is an award it won for its good safety scores, roomy interior and high-quality cabin.
The 2012 model year sees the introduction of the Regal eAssist, a mild-hybrid version of the Regal with impressive fuel economy. So far, though, the big news among test drivers has been the introduction of the Regal GS, which is even more powerful than the Buick Regal Turbo.
Still, some reviewers say that while the base Buick Regal offers great performance at a reasonable price, the Regal GS is up against better-known rivals in an intensely competitive class. “With the Regal GS, Buick is serving up a gourmet helping of nouvelle refinement and performance,” writes Motor Trend. “But the big-name chefs down the street at Acura and Audi are selling their established crowd-pleasers (TSX V-6 and A4 Quattro) for the same price."
Fortunately for buyers on a budget, most critics assert that even the base model handles like a European luxury sedan. Reviewers say that even though the Buick brand may not be strong enough to pull brand loyalists of more expensive automakers in, overlooking the Regal would be a mistake.

Other Cars to Consider

The 2012 Buick Regal is more expensive than most base-model affordable midsize cars, but less than other upscale midsize cars. If you’re shopping for value, compare the Regal with other affordable midsize cars like the Hyundai Sonata. Like the Regal, the Sonata comes with standard interior tech features that are often optional on competing models, but it’s also considerably less expensive than the Buick and gets better fuel economy.
If you’ve got a little more money to spend, and like the Regal’s composed handling and comfortable interior, consider rivals like the Audi A4. The A4 may be pricier than the Regal, but it also offers good fuel economy and optional all-wheel drive, as well as German luxury car cachet. However, the A4 also doesn’t come with as many standard features, which means that if you want to match the Regal’s list of standard equipment, you’ll have to add a longer list of options into your budget.

Buick Regal: The Details

For 2012, the Buick Regal is available in four distinct trims that are based primarily around the engine. Base models feature a four-cylinder engine, while the Regal eAssist adds a small electric motor to improve fuel economy. For buyers seeking more performance, Buick offers the Regal Turbo and the top-of-the-line Regal GS, which both feature a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
GS and eAssist models are new for 2012, and Buick will be adding its IntelliLink touch-screen infotainment system as standard equipment at some point during the 2012 model year. If you like the Regal, but also want the latest tech features, you might want to wait for this feature.
For a full list of standard and optional features, see the 2012 Buick Regal specs.

• "The Buick Regal is an entirely reasonable proposition. People and stuff fit in it. It's decent looking, priced fairly and has the requisite balance of power and fuel economy for a medium-size sedan with premium aspirations." -- AutoWeek 
• "The Regal boasts nimble, athletic road manners while maintaining the generally upscale aura expected of the brand." -- Consumer Guide 
• "Check every box and you'll end up just under $39,000. That's pushing awfully close to the $40K mark, but keep in mind, an Acura TSX V6 with the tech package will run you about $39K, as well. We'll take the Buick, thanks. (Isn't it nice to be able to say that again?)" -- Autoblog (Regal GS)
• "What it is, it turns out, is a very well tuned, near-luxury sport sedan that, in terms of sheer driving pleasure, surpasses anything else in its class made in Detroit these days, not to mention imports like the Acura TSX and the Lexus ES350." -- Automobile Magazine
• "So let's see what we have here; A gorgeous, fun-to-drive, quick, comfortable, well-equipped American sedan built with the quality of its German competitors... and it's a Buick. Who knew?" -- Jalopnik

Regal Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)

Test drivers applaud the 2012 Buick Regal for its composed handling and numerous engine options. Read More

Regal Exterior - 9.0 (Excellent)

Reviewers think that the 2012 Buick Regal is a stylish sedan whose looks easily keep pace with the competition. “Truth be told, we're smitten with the way this thing looks,” writes Autoblog. “It's bulgy, brash and uses an interesting blend of curving lines to create an aura of sharpness.” View Photos

Regal Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Cars.com says that the 2012 Buick Regal’s “five-seat cabin utilizes premium materials,” and in general, most auto writers agree. The Regal’s cabin includes comfortable seats, high-quality materials, Zen-like quietness and a long list of standard features. Read More

Regal Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

Though the federal government has not tested the 2012 Regal yet, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety names it a 2012 Top Safety Pick. Read More

Regal Reliability - 3.5 of 5

The 2012 Buick Regal reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 Buick Regal is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Buick LaCrosse Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Buick LaCrosse ranks 3 out of 7 Affordable Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Buick LaCrosse, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Whether you choose the fuel-saving eAssist engine or the powerful V6, reviewers say the 2012 Buick LaCrosse offers comfort and luxury that’s on par with longtime luxury leaders like Lexus.
The Buick LaCrosse ups the ante with significant enhancements for the 2012 model year. A four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor, which Buick calls eAssist, come as standard equipment. Power is comparable with the 2011 LaCrosse’s four-cylinder engine, but fuel economy is better. The EPA estimates that the LaCrosse eAssist gets six additional miles per gallon in both city and highway driving when compared with the 2011 model.
While fuel economy is up with eAssist, shoppers who’re looking at a V6 LaCrosse instead will reap 23 additional horsepower for 2012. The V6 is available as a no-cost option, although Buick does require V6 buyers to purchase its Convenience Group, which adds features such as an upgraded driver’s seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror and universal garage door opener.
Inside, reviewers find the comfortable, luxuriously-appointed interior has also received upgrades for the 2012 model year. Buick’s IntelliLink system provides smartphone integration, allowing LaCrosse owners to place calls or stream music via Bluetooth. The added tech earns praise from multiple test drivers, though some comment that it takes a moment to learn your way around the LaCrosse’s button-heavy dash.
Additionally, reviewers find that trunk space is in short supply on the V6 and even further compromised on eAssist models. Still, the automotive press says that the 2012 LaCrosse’s combination of luxury, tech and available engines makes it good enough to compete against cars costing several thousand dollars more. “The LaCrosse's base price of just under $30,000, these technologies, and the quality of the car, make it a compelling competitor to other luxury cars,” writes CNET. “Anyone looking at a Lexus ES 350 or Lincoln MKZ should be cross-shopping the LaCrosse.”

Other Cars to Consider

There’s only one other car that currently offers the choice between V6-power or hybrid-fuel economy at no additional cost: the Lincoln MKZ and MKZ Hybrid. Starting at $34,645, reviewers say that this upscale midsize car features a plush interior and a long list of standard features, but shares too many similarities with the Ford Fusion, which is significantly less expensive.
If you’re comparing V6 models, you’ll find that the LaCrosse offers more power, interior space and similar fuel economy for about $4,700 less than the MKZ. However, urban dwellers may be won over by the MKZ Hybrid’s 41/36 mpg city/highway fuel economy. Although the LaCrosse eAssist also offers 36 mpg on the highway, its mild-hybrid drivetrain only nets 25 mpg in the city.
Because of its comfortable and luxurious interior, reviewers frequently compare the Buick LaCrosse with the Lexus ES. At $36,725, the ES rivals the LaCrosse with its luxurious interior and smooth, quiet ride. However, like the MKZ, the ES does cost thousands more than the base LaCrosse, and many reviewers say that its softly-tuned suspension and costly options may make it less appealing to some buyers.

Buick LaCrosse: The Details

Starting at about $30,000, the 2012 Buick LaCrosse eAssist features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and 11-killowatt electric motor. This mild-hybrid powertrain is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Standard features on the base model include dual-zone automatic climate control, power driver’s seat, OnStar, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker stereo with CD player, satellite radio, USB connection and an auxiliary input.
If you choose to add Buick’s optional Convenience Group, you’ll pay about $30,400 and get the option to swap out the eAssist powertrain for a larger V6 at no additional cost. The Convenience Group also adds an upgraded driver’s seat, universal garage door opener and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
All-wheel drive is available on V6 models, but requires that customers also purchase Buick’s Leather Group, which bumps the AWD LaCrosse’s price to roughly $34,400. The Leather Group also adds a power-adjustable passenger seat, leather seating and steering wheel, heated front seats and heated side-view mirrors.

• "Boasting modern styling, an elegant interior and impressive driving dynamics, the LaCrosse quickly became one of our more favored entry-level luxury sedans." -- Edmunds 
• "The best part about the LaCrosse, though, is that from behind the wheel, there’s no real price to pay for the enormous (31.5% city, 20% highway) fuel economy benefits. The eAssist drives just as well as the regular LaCrosse did. Smooth, quiet, and comfortable - and that’s exactly what Buick customers want. Just with far better fuel economy." -- Automobile Magazine 
• "If you're in the market for an efficient, larger midsize sedan, the LaCrosse with eAssist is worth a close look. … With eAssist, Buick has done an admirable job of creating a green car with minimal compromise." -- AutoWeek 
• "Buick claims to target both the Acura TL and Lexus ES 350 with LaCrosse, but in reality it is only the Lexus that has been successfully challenged. Though lacking the TL's sporty nature, LaCrosse matches the more sedate ES in cabin and drivetrain refinement, and surpasses it in available passenger space." -- Consumer Guide 
• "It's a bit more car, but a lot less hybrid than its closest competitor, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (EPA 41/36 mpg, $35,455), and comparably equipped it should ring in about $5000 less. So, how high do you expect fuel prices to go?" -- Motor Trend 

LaCrosse Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The Buick LaCrosse offers sharp handling and engines that have been refined for 2012. Whether you choose to optimize fuel economy with the eAssist engine, or opt for the V6’s 303 horsepower, reviewers say that you’ll be pleased overall with the LaCrosse's performance. Read More

LaCrosse Exterior - 9.3 (Excellent)

Whether you choose the fuel-saving eAssist or the more-powerful V6, reviewers say the 2012 Buick LaCrosse sports the same attractive look. View Photos

LaCrosse Interior - 8.6 (Very Good)

Many car reviewers are blown away by the 2012 Buick LaCrosse’s comfortable, high-quality interior and standard tech features. However, the LaCrosse falls short with less trunk space than other affordable large cars. Read More

LaCrosse Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)

The 2012 Buick LaCrosse performed exceptionally well in crash tests performed by the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Read More

LaCrosse Reliability - 3.5 of 5

The 2012 Buick LaCrosse reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 Buick LaCrosse comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, which is one year longer than what many competitors offer.

GMC Terrain Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 GMC Terrain ranks 4 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 29 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Terrain, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2012 GMC Terrain has a high base price, but buyers get a stand-out exterior, a standard rearview camera and plenty of passenger space.
Unlike most compact SUVs, which have round, simple exteriors and a bland list of standard interior features, the 2012 GMC Terrain has rugged, truck-like styling that suggests parents are headed off-road rather than to the grocery store, and comes packed with standard features like Bluetooth and a rearview camera. On top of that, the GMC Terrain has a lot of passenger space, and a sliding second row that increases leg or cargo room. The Terrain does have less cargo space than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, but if you need plenty of room for your teenagers, it may be a compromise you’re willing to make.
Reviewers have pinpointed the Terrain’s most obvious flaws: engine performance and price. The Terrain is so pricey because it comes with a lot of standard features, but reviewers hope that GMC will tweak the Terrain’s standard four-cylinder engine and optional V6. The four-cylinder is underpowered, and test drivers even say the V6 engine’s horsepower is misleading.
Overall, the Terrain is perfect for moms and dads who want something other than a typical family SUV, reviewers say, and add that the 2012 GMC Terrain deserves a slot at the top of your shopping list because overall, it’s a great family vehicle.

Other SUVs to Consider

The Terrain is a good alternative to the Toyota RAV4 because it’s more attractive, but its good looks means you’ll give up more interior space and utilitarian features. The RAV4 tops the Terrain in terms of cargo space and has something the Terrain doesn’t: an optional third row that can seat two children comfortably. Of course, the additional seating decreases cargo capacity, but it’s a good option if you need to shuttle more than four passengers.
The Chevrolet Equinox is the GMC Terrain’s corporate cousin, and is a good choice if the Terrain is out of your price range because of its high base price. Built on the same platform as the Terrain, the Equinox also has a lot of interior room and cargo space. It also has very high fuel economy ratings. With the Equinox, however, you won’t get a standard rearview camera.

Details: GMC Terrain

The 2012 GMC Terrain is available in four trim levels: SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT-1 and SLT-2. Because Terrain hasn’t changed much, this review uses test drives from earlier models.

• "GMC's smallest SUV deserves consideration for passenger accommodations and overall refinement. Compared with the similar Chevrolet Equinox, Terrain offers unique styling, additional standard equipment, and available cloth seating that is notably upmarket of its sibling." -- Consumer Guide
• "In the Terrain, GMC has created a rugged looking compact, deceiving in size and with impressively good fuel economy. Loaded with features and priced to compete with segment leader such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Terrain is an appealing choice for those who like their trucks to look like trucks, even when they're not really trucks." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "If the handsome and cohesive design is any indicator, this could be GMC's best small SUV ever." -- Car and Driver

Terrain Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2012 GMC Terrain has car-like performance and excellent fuel economy with its base four-cylinder engine, but it isn’t as fun to drive as the Volkswagen Tiguan or Mazda CX-7, even when you opt for the V6 engine.  Read More

Terrain Exterior - 7.5 (Good)

Parents who are avoiding the Honda CR-V’s “mom car” reputation might like the 2012 GMC Terrain’s rugged, boxy exterior that houses a family-friendly interior.  View Photos

Terrain Interior - 8.9 (Very Good)

The 2012 GMC Terrain doesn’t have as much cargo space as the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, but in exchange for less space, the Terrain has more standard features. Read More

Terrain Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2012 GMC Terrain receives a high overall score from the federal government and is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick.
Read More

Terrain Reliability - 2.5 of 5

The 2012 GMC Terrain reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The Terrain has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that is typical of affordable SUVs

GMC Sierra 1500 Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 ranks 3 out of 10 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Sierra 1500, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 may be aging compared with more recently updated competitors, but reviewers say it’s still a good choice for a full-size truck.
In general, test drivers say the GMC Sierra 1500 is a good truck. It has a competitive maximum towing capacity, its controls are easy to use and its seats are comfortable. With the number of cab, powertrain, trim and bed configurations, the 2012 Sierra 1500 can be configured to nearly anyone’s specifications, which reviewers appreciate. Plus, it gets fairly good fuel economy for a full-size pickup truck.
Though reviewers like the GMC Sierra 1500 and its corporate sibling, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, better than dated offerings like the Toyota Tundra and the Nissan Titan, they say that domestic competitors outshine the GMC Sierra in most ways. The GMC Sierra’s Denali trim is luxurious, but it still can’t match competitors’ top-of-the-line trims in terms of interior quality or materials. The Sierra also doesn’t offer high-tech interior options like American rivals, and its competitors can out-tow, out-haul and out-handle it, as well.
However, the GMC Sierra is still a solid choice for a full-size pickup truck. It isn’t the best in its class, but test drivers say that buyers won’t be disappointed with the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500.

Other Trucks to Consider

Test drivers say the Ram 1500 is the best-handling truck in its class, thanks to a unique suspension that makes it more responsive and gives it a smoother ride. The Ram 1500 offers a whopping 11 trim levels, so it’s easy to find a trim that fits your budget. Plus, the Ram 1500’s Laramie Longhorn trim sports what reviewers consider the most opulent interior of any pickup truck besides the luxury-branded Cadillac Escalade EXT.
The Ford F-150 is reviewers’ top pick for a hard-working, capable pickup truck. Ford’s Work Solutions system can help track tools, oversee a fleet of pickup trucks and even print invoices from an in-dash computer. Plus, the F-150 has the highest towing capacity of any full-size truck. In the interest of fuel economy, the F-150 is available with a turbocharged Ecoboost engine, which increases power without a penalty in gas mileage. For instance, the F-150 Ecoboost makes more horsepower and torque than the Sierra 1500’s second-largest V8 engine, but gets better fuel economy.

Details: GMC Sierra 1500

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 comes in a variety of trims, including the base WT (Work Truck), SL, SLE, SLT, XFE and Denali. It can be configured with regular, extended and crew cabs; short, regular and long beds; and two-, four- or all-wheel drive. The GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid is reviewed separately. The Sierra gets only a few updates for 2012, but those include newly-standard trailer sway control, hill start assist and cruise control on base models. Denali trims gain standard heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel and a rearview camera.
See the full list of 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 specifications.

• "GM's full-size pickup trucks (Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra) are aging in the face of newer trucks from Dodge and Ford. Despite this, the GM twins are still compelling because of their excellent engines, tasteful styling, and spacious interiors. Configurable in a zillion different ways, one can be made just the way you want it.” -- Car and Driver
• "The … GMC Sierra 1500 is a worthy competitor among fresher rivals, bolstered by a wide range of body styles, capable performance and a comfortable ride.” -- Edmunds
• “GMC’s Sierra and the similar Chevrolet Silverado shine for refinement and available features. Any truck buyer would be well-advised to give these Recommended big rigs a long, hard look.” -- Consumer Guide

GMC Acadia Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 GMC Acadia ranks 10 out of 23 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 73 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Acadia, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Reviewers praise the 2012 GMC Acadia for its competent performance, spacious interior, roomy third row and aggressive looks. Still, buyers looking for a three-row SUV at a bargain-basement price will want to look elsewhere.
Reviewers say that overall, the GMC Acadia is a great vehicle for families who need a lot of space but can’t bring themselves to buy a minivan. Though its starting price is more than others in its class, reviewers say the Acadia is worth the extra money. The Acadia has more interior space than some larger, truck-based SUVs, along with better fuel economy, a more comfortable drive and an attractive, aggressive exterior.
Critics do have a few bones to pick with the Acadia. Some test drivers take issue with the Acadia’s six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission’s gears help the engine get better gas mileage than many competitors, but this also makes it more difficult to harness the V6 engine’s 288 horsepower when you need to get up a hill or merge onto the highway.
Still, reviewers encourage shoppers in the market for a three-row SUV to take a long, hard look at the GMC Acadia. "One of the best of these modern family haulers is the 2012 GMC Acadia, a large crossover that boasts a refined ride and an enormous cabin that can fit up to eight adults,” writes Edmunds.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you love the GMC Acadia but can’t justify its high base price, check out the Chevrolet Traverse. It costs about $3,200 less than the Acadia, and you won’t have to sacrifice the Acadia’s class-leading cargo space or adult-sized third row because the two SUVs share a platform and many interior, exterior and mechanical elements.
For better fuel economy, take a look at the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The Highlander Hybrid also includes three rows, and four-wheel drive models get 28 mpg both in the city and on the highway. It will save you about $920 per year in fuel costs compared with the all-wheel drive GMC Acadia, according to the EPA. Plus, it only costs about $3,500 more than an all-wheel drive GMC Acadia SL. You’ll make up the difference in fuel savings after less than three years.

Details: GMC Acadia

The Acadia’s five trims include the base SL, SLE, SLT-1, SLT-2 and top-of-the-line Denali. All-wheel drive is optional on all trims, and adds $2,000 to the sticker price.
The Acadia sees only minor changes for the 2012 model year. SLT and Denali models both get blind-spot sensors and hill-hold assist standard, all trims add an accessory power outlet and GMC has shuffled around some color options.

• "Acadia is tailor-made for buyers who need a minivan but don't want to drive one. This Best Buy crossover is dynamically capable, comes standard with a host of safety features, and offers several unusual and useful options.” -- Consumer Guide
• "The Acadia Denali caters to (its occupants) in nearly every way possible. And in a parking lot full of big crossovers with ho-hum looks, the Acadia Denali arrives looking for a fight. One that it will most likely win.” -- The Detroit News

• "The Acadia successfully combines the appearance and capabilities of an SUV with an added measure of practicality and efficiency. It seats up to eight people, has ample room for luggage or cargo and offers good fuel economy." -- Kelley Blue Book

Acadia Performance - 7.4 (Good)

Reviewers say that while the GMC Acadia won’t be setting any records at the track, it performs well enough for most drivers. Read More

Acadia Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)

Reviewers say that the 2012 GMC Acadia looks attractive enough, and some even say it looks aggressive. Though most say the Acadia blends in with the rest of the class, its flashy (and pricey) Denali trim may be too much for some. View Photos

Acadia Interior - 7.7 (Good)

Reviewers say the 2012 GMC Acadia’s interior is surprisingly classy and spacious for the class. Plus, adults can fit comfortably in the third row, which is unusual for a three-row affordable midsize SUV. Read More

Acadia Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2012 GMC Acadia gets an overall rating of five stars out of five in crash tests conducted by the federal government and was named a Top Safety Pick for its excellent scores in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests. Read More

Acadia Reliability - 2.5 of 5

The 2012 GMC Acadia reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 GMC Acadia comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Honda Earns Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Award for the Second Consecutive Year

04/19/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Honda has captured the 2012 Best Retained Value Award for the second consecutive year from Edmunds.com. Honda was named the top non-luxury brand in the Best Retained Value Awards for maintaining the highest projected residual value after five years of ownership as a percentage of value when new.

"Honda's focus on retail sales has always benefitted our most important client: Honda customers," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "This valuable award from Edmunds.com is recognition of Honda's unending mission of providing true value to customers - one that extends well beyond the showroom."

"Honda has long had a reputation for dependable used vehicles, and that is reflected in today's booming used car market," said Joe Spina, director of remarketing at Edmunds.com. "Honda's family of vehicles continues to expand the company's status as one of the best values available to car buyers today."
For more information about the Edmunds.com Best Retained Value Awards, visit http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/best-retained-value-cars.html.

Honda Announces Leviton as Preferred Electric Vehicle Charging Solution

Leviton's technologies to charge new Fit EV and Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan

4/23/2012 1:56:00 PM

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced that Leviton Manufacturing Company, the global leader in connectivity solutions, has been selected as Honda's preferred Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment provider for customer and dealer EV charging.

"As leaders in the fields of advanced technology for mobility and energy solutions, Leviton and Honda both have unique missions to create a more sustainable future," said Steven Center, vice president of the Environmental Business Development Office at American Honda. "Pairing Leviton's EV charging solutions with Honda's advanced Fit EV and

Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan electric vehicles will enable a more convenient and seamless ownership experience for our customers."

Honda will be introducing two battery-electric vehicles beginning with the 2013 Honda Fit EV this summer, and the Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Sedan next winter. The 2013 Honda Fit EV battery-electric commuter car, based on the popular Fit, targets an estimated 123 city-mile range per charge (76 mile range combined adjusted city/highway)¹ and can fully recharge its battery in as little as three hours when connected to a 240-volt circuit. The Honda Plug-In Hybrid Sedan uses an all-new, two-motor hybrid system which continuously moves through three different modes - all-electric, with up to a 15 mile per charge range; gasoline-electric; and direct-drive - to maximize driving and fuel efficiency, especially during city driving.

"Leviton is excited to work with American Honda as they launch their electric vehicle program here in America. At a high level we share a very similar overall mission; to supply products of the highest quality at a reasonable price for complete customer satisfaction," said Michael Mattei, Vice President and General Manager for Leviton's Commercial and Industrial Business Unit. "In addition, we hope to continue to enable the electric and hybrid electric industry through simple, easy to purchase, easy to install and easy to use products, while providing the highest level of consumer safety."

About Honda
Honda offers a diverse range of cars and trucks that include the mid-sized Accord, the compact Civic line-up with seven individual trim-levels, CR-V crossover SUV and Odyssey minivan. Honda also includes a wide range of fuel-efficient and low-emission vehicles such as the Insight hybrid, Civic Natural Gas (compressed natural gas-powered vehicle), Civic Hybrid, CR-Z (sport hybrid coupe), FCX Clarity (fuel cell-electric vehicle) and the soon-to-be-released Fit EV (electric vehicle). Honda's 2013 Fit EV battery-electric commuter car, based on the popular Fit, targets an estimated 123 city mile range per charge (76 mile range combined adjusted city/highway)1 and can fully recharge its battery in as little as three hours when connected to a 240-volt circuit. For more information about the Honda Fit EV battery-electric vehicle and to sign up to become a potential Honda lessee, please visit Honda's Fit EV consumer page at http://automobiles.honda.com/fit-ev/.

About Leviton
Leviton Manufacturing Company is the largest privately held global provider of electrical wiring devices, data center connectivity solutions and lighting energy management systems. Founded at the turn of the 20th century in America, Leviton has grown to become one of the preeminent leaders in the electrical industry. Today Leviton's product portfolio consists of more than 25,000 devices and systems used in homes, businesses and industry. Proven to be a smart choice, nine out of 10 homes throughout North America have Leviton products installed in them. Builders, electrical contractors and other industry professionals rank Leviton products No. 1 in brand preference. To request more information about Leviton, please visit http://www.leviton.com/.

Connect with Honda:
Honda Media Newsroom (for journalists): http://www.hondanews.com/
Honda Fit EV (for consumers): http://automobiles.honda.com/fit-ev
Honda Fit EV on Facebook
Honda on YouTube: www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Flickr: www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda on Twitter: www.twitter.com/honda
Honda on Google+
Honda on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/honda