First Drives

First DrivesThe Nissan LEAF on the Examining Table
Although the Nissan Leaf is manufactured in small quantities and most models have already been purchased by the time they come off the production line, we were still able to get our hands on one for a week-long test drive. And while we were at it, we decided to have …
First Drives2012 Scion iQ: The Scion in Winter4.0/5
One of the first questions people ask me about small cars is, “How does this vehicle handle in winter?” They already know that the car isn’t terribly roomy, that its performances are respectable at best given the modest engine power, and that its fuel consumption is very economical. But for …
First Drives2012 Honda CR-V: A journey into the familiar4.0/5
With the Honda CR-V approaching its sweet sixteen, it seemed like a good time for some changes. This little freshly revamped SUV has enjoyed a lot of success since its launch in 1997. And it intends to remain a leader in its category. Following the old adage, “if it ain’t …
First Drives2012 Buick Verano – Not too shabby at all!4.5/5
This may seem anachronistic, but to succeed in the luxury and semi-luxury car category, you have to market an entry-level compact model. It helps increase your total number of clients and introduce them to the brand so that, one day, they might upgrade to a more luxurious model. Audi, BMW …
First Drives2012 Kia Soul: New, but not too new4.0/5
When Kia unveiled its Soul in 2009, it was a breath of fresh air in the automobile industry. For once, a unique vehicle didn’t go too far. The Nissan Cube (and, later, the Juke) or the Scion xB pushed the envelope a little too far – and they continue to …
First Drives2012 Ferrari 458 Spider: A brilliant masterstroke
The pinnacle for an automobile journalist and the dream of any self-respecting diehard is driving a new Ferrari in the country where it was born. I happen to be both, and I accomplished this feat during the international launch of the Ferrari 458 Spider a few days after it was …
First Drives2012 Range Rover Evoque: The urban woodsman4.5/5
For years, the Land Rover name was associated with a rural way of life. Their ads showed stylish people dressed in Barbour coats and Wellington boots stopped in a field next to a Land Rover or a Range Rover. Usually, a dog, generally Labrador, sat quietly next to his master.
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