2012 Mazda CX-9

best car 2012 Mazda CX-9

The 2012 Mazda CX-9 ranks 1 out of 22 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 58 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda CX-9, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

If you’ve decided to trade in your sporty car for more cargo and passenger space, but don’t want to lose too much fun-to-drive performance, test drivers say you’ll be especially happy with the 2012 Mazda CX-9.

Reviewers say that the Mazda CX-9 is one of the sportiest crossovers on the market, but that’s not all it’s good at. It also has a good number of standard  features, and its first and second rows are roomy. Auto critics note that its sleek, standout styling will turn more heads than most traditional-looking SUVs, and that adults will fit in its third row, which can be rare in this class.

If you’d rather have a surpassingly smooth ride that coddles you and your passengers, some of the CX-9’s competitors may be worth looking at. But most test drivers say that if you need a seven-seat family vehicle that’s comfortable, well-equipped and fun to drive, it doesn’t get any better than the 2012 Mazda CX-9. In fact, the Mazda CX-9 does such a good job of combining performance, interior space and value that it earned our 2012 Best Affordable Three-Row SUV for the Money award.

2013 Mazda Mazda5

best car 2013 Mazda Mazda5

The 2013 Mazda Mazda5 ranks 3 out of 6 Minivans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 16 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Mazda5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Mazda5 is the smallest and least expensive minivan in the class, but reviewers say it's big on sporty performance.

The 2013 Mazda5 is powered by a four-cylinder engine that makes 157 horsepower.  A six-speed manual transmission, the only manual in the class, is standard and a five-speed automatic transmission is optional.  Reviewers say that though the Mazda5's powertrain is a bit weak on highways, overall, the Mazda5 has strong performance.  Because it is much smaller than the other vans in the class, the Mazda5 has handling that some reviewers say rivals a sports sedan.  It also gets excellent fuel economy.

The Mazda5 is the 2013 Best Minivan for the Money because it has the best combination of ownership costs and positive reviews in its class.

The tradeoff you make for performance on the 2013 Mazda5 is interior space.  The Mazda5 only seats six, and compared to most minivans, the third row is cramped. Standard features include a six-speaker stereo with auxiliary input jack and USB port.  Heated seats, Bluetooth and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system are optional.  While reviewers think the Mazda5's list of features is sparse, they agree that they're in line with the van's low base price.

2013 Mazda Mazda6

best car 2013 Mazda Mazda6

The 2013 Mazda Mazda6 ranks 11 out of 19 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Mazda6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers like the Mazda6’s spacious interior and lively handling, but its redesigned rivals offer better fuel economy, more standard features and higher safety scores.

The 2013 Mazda6 is one of few affordable midsize cars that still offer a manual transmission, and test drivers say it has precise shifts. The manual is found only on the base four-cylinder Mazda6. A five-speed automatic with manual mode is available on four-cylinder models. The top-of-the-line s Grand Touring trim has a V6 and six-speed automatic with manual mode. Four-cylinder models with either transmission average 21/30 mpg city/highway, while V6 models earn 18/27 mpg. Both fuel economy ratings are below-average for the class. Auto critics think the Mazda6’s athletic handling, accurate steering and strong brakes make it one of the most engaging midsize cars to drive. Like many midsize cars, they think the base engine is just fine, but the V6 is notably powerful.

The Mazda6 earns points with reviewers with its sporty styling, large cabin and trunk and upscale materials. They think the seats are comfortable and supportive and the trunk’s large opening makes loading cargo a breeze. The Mazda6 doesn’t have as many standard features as some of its rivals, only offering an auxiliary audio jack and CD player. USB iPod connectivity isn’t available at all, but the Mazda6 can be outfitted with features like Bluetooth, blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, navigation and satellite radio. One test driver thinks the optional navigation system is slightly confusing, but overall, reviewers like the clean, simple control layout.

2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata

best car 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks 2 out of 10 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 76 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers say the 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata proves that sports cars don’t need to carry high price tags or pack monstrous engines to deliver spirited performance.

The 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata is powered by a four-cylinder engine, which isn’t as powerful as the engines of many sports cars in the class. However, reviewers agree that, combined with the Miata’s light weight, the responsive engine delivers enough power to keep up with newer rivals like the Subaru BRZ. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and test drivers love its short throws. Most also note that the transmission offers precise shifts that reinforce the Mazda Miata’s fun driving dynamics. According to the EPA, the 2013 Miata gets up to 22/28 mpg city/highway, which is better than competitors like the Ford Mustang, but not quite as good as the Mini Cooper Roadster. In general, the automotive press loves the Miata’s quick, accurate steering and athletic handling. In a comparison test, one reviewer also notes that the Miata soaks up bumps and road imperfections better than the BRZ. From a practical standpoint, the Miata also earns a better reliability rating than most cars in the class.

Inside, the Miata earns reviewer praise for its attractively-designed interior, which features a functional, driver-focused control layout. Most interior materials are hard plastic, but auto writers say that they’re attractive and seem appropriate for the Miata’s price. Some test drivers comment that the two-seat Miata’s small size means that taller occupants may want more space. The Miata’s trunk is also one of the smallest in the class, but some critics say that if you pack carefully, there’s room for a weekend’s worth of luggage. A few reviewers write that wind and road noise are common on the highway, even with the available hardtop. A six-speaker stereo with an auxiliary input jack is standard in the 2013 MX-5 Miata. Options and features available on higher trims include automatic climate control, leather seats, heated seats, Bluetooth, push-button start, satellite radio and a Bose stereo.

2013 Mazda2

best car 2013 Mazda2

The 2013 Mazda2 ranks 15 out of 43 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 43 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda2, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Test drivers like the 2013 Mazda2’s responsive steering and simple interior, but say shoppers who want a strong engine and more optional interior tech should check out rivals.

All 2013 Mazda2 models have a four-cylinder engine that makes 100 horsepower and a standard five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional, and according to the EPA, this powertrain combination yields fuel economy ratings of 28/34 mpg city/highway, which are slightly less than the manual’s fuel economy estimates. Reviewers wish the automatic had six gears rather than four, but they still think it operates smoothly. They also say the manual is their transmission of choice, but a few complain that its clutch is vague. While the automotive press agrees that the Mazda2’s engine is underpowered even for an affordable small car, they think the Mazda2 stands out in the class for its sharp handling, which makes it fun to drive. Critics also like its strong brakes.

Test drivers are disappointed that the Mazda2 doesn’t offer interior features like a navigation system, an infotainment system or a rearview camera, which are available on subcompacts like the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio, but they like that the available features are very easy to use. The Mazda2 comes with six standard airbags, and its safety score is below-average for an affordable small car. Reviewers say that the Mazda2 has great visibility in all directions and comfortable front seats, but they are divided over rear-seat comfort. Some think that two tall adults have enough legroom, but others say adults will be cramped. The 2013 Mazda2 is one of the smaller hatchbacks in the class, and reviewers think it doesn’t offer enough cargo space.

2013 Mazda3

best car 2013 Mazda3

The 2013 Mazda3 ranks 4 out of 43 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 58 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

While the 2013 Mazda3 ranks highly for its strong engines and sharp handling, reviewers think it isn’t as practical as its classmates.

One thing that separates the Mazda3 from its classmates is its nimble, accurate handling, which makes it one of the most fun-to-drive models in the class. All models have a four-cylinder engine. The base model has 148 horsepower and the most powerful model, the Mazdaspeed3, has 263 horsepower. Regardless of which engine you choose, reviewers say that most shoppers will be very pleased with the Mazda3’s performance. The only downside to the Mazda3, auto writers say, is that fuel economy from all but one engine isn’t very good. The 155-horsepower Skyactiv engine, which was new for the 2012 model year, achieves an EPA-estimated 28/40 mpg city/highway, which is great for a small car. Plus, it doesn’t sacrifice performance for efficiency. All models except the Mazdaspeed3, which only comes with a six-speed manual transmission, offer a manual and automatic transmission. Depending on the trim, these transmissions have five or six gears. Test drivers think both the manual and automatic transmissions are responsive, but some find that the manuals make the Mazda3 feel faster.

While the 2013 Mazda3’s performance receives a glowing review from the automotive press, overall evaluations of its interior aren’t as positive. Many auto writers say that the Mazda3’s second-row seats feel tight for the class. Some test drivers even say the front seats won’t offer enough room for tall adults. The Mazda3 is available in sedan and hatchback body styles, and several auto writers complain that the sedan doesn’t have much cargo space, though hatchback models have a lot. While no test driver says that the Mazda3’s interior is cheap, reviewers think the quality of its plastics are below its main rivals like the Volkswagen Golf. Reviewers think most of the Mazda3’s interior controls are straightforward, but some take issue with the Mazda3’s optional navigation system. They say its small screen, awkward placement in the dashboard and complicated, steering-wheel mounted controls make it a pain to use.

2013 Mazda CX-5

best car 2013 Mazda CX-5

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 ranks 2 out of 21 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda CX-5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Car reviewers give the 2013 Mazda CX-5 a glowing letter of recommendation for its phenomenal handling, near-perfect manual transmission and outstanding fuel economy figures.

Performance is the main reason to choose the 2013 Mazda CX-5. The CX-5’s handling, which reviewers say runs a close second to the small and sporty Mazda MX-5 Miata, is as good as it gets in this class. The CX-5 earns praise for its neutral handling and great corner-hugging ability. Test drivers like the CX-5’s six-speed manual transmission just as much, saying it shifts smoothly and makes the CX-5 really engaging to drive. One thing reviewers crave is more power from the Mazda CX-5’s 155-horsepower four-cylinder engine because a boost would come in handy when traveling uphill.

Shoppers who prioritize comfort or high-tech features over agile handling should take a close look at the Mazda CX-5’s interior before purchasing. The front and rear seats are comfortable, but like many small SUVs, the rear seats may be tight for three adults, especially on long trips. With a standard USB port and optional Bluetooth and navigation, reviewers consider the 2013 Mazda CX-5’s list of tech features dull compared with models that have standard Bluetooth and optional rearview cameras and infotainment systems, like the 2013 Ford Escape’s MyFord Touch.

As a complete package, reviewers like the 2013 Mazda CX-5 a lot. Good cargo space, excellent fuel economy, strong safety ratings and a quality interior are wrapped in a sporty, attractive exterior. Best of all, they say the Mazda CX-5 is just as fun to drive as it looks.

2012 Mercedes Benz G-Class

best car 2012 Mercedes Benz G-Class

Nearly every reviewer says that the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class’ strange combination of unbeatable off-road performance, top-notch build quality and unique looks gives it a spot in their dream garage.

If you’re looking for a sensible luxury large SUV that will get your family through a few winter snow storms and putter around town the rest of the year, the G-Class is not the SUV for you. The auto press agrees that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is one of the least practical vehicles on the market. But if you’re able to spend some serious cash on a true automotive icon with legendary off-road capabilities, it doesn’t get much better than the military-inspired G550.

Test drivers say the G-Class’ on-road handling is terrible, it has some of the worst ergonomics in the class, its electronics are unintuitive and its interior is fairly cramped for such a large SUV. So what’s its attraction?

Its V8 engine is ridiculously powerful, giving it acceleration that’s unreal to experience in a shoebox of an SUV. Reviewers say that it feels as well-built as a bank vault, and its interior materials and fit and finish can’t get much better. Automotive journalists report that it’s one of the most capable off-road vehicles on the market. And the exclusivity that comes with a price tag of more than $100,000 doesn’t hurt either.

Nearly every critic agrees there’s no way to justify the Mercedes-Benz G-Class as a rational purchase. However, if you’ve got the budget for an illogical but supremely capable toy, you won’t have much more fun in an SUV than you will in a Mercedes G550.

2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

best car 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class ranks 3 out of 20 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Reviewers say that the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers a stylish exterior, composed handling and a high-quality interior.

From the base C250 to the high-performance C63 AMG, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class covers a broad spectrum in terms of performance. Some reviewers say that the base C250’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power, though a few critics don’t think that it’s competitive within the class. C300 and C350 models, however, offer ample power from their V6 engines. A seven-speed automatic transmission comes standard, and most reviewers agree that it’s smooth and refined. With 22/31 mpg city/highway, the C250 earns good fuel economy within the class, though rivals like the Audi A4, BMW 328i and Buick Regal eAssist all earn slightly better estimates. Test drivers say that while some rivals have better handling than the C-Class, it’s still nimble and fun to drive. Additionally, most critics are pleased with the C-Class' comfortable, yet composed ride.

Inside, the 2013 C-Class offers a straightforward, yet elegant design that auto writers like. Many test drivers agree that the back seat isn’t the most spacious in the class, but passenger space up front is good and the C-Class earns positive comments for its high-quality materials and solid construction. One test driver even compares the C-Class to its significantly more expensive sibling, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Some reviewers think that the C-Class’ electronic features could be easier to use, while others say that its controls are intuitive. The C-Class comes with a nice list of standard features, though some of its options, such as leather upholstery and heated seats, can be found standard on competing cars.

2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

best car 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class ranks 11 out of 12 Super Luxury Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 10 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS sports a freshly redesigned interior and exterior, as well as a more powerful engine. Most reviewers love the changes, but say that it’s no small task to reinvent the original CLS’ four-door coupe design.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS has been completely redesigned for 2012, and Mercedes says that the new CLS is more fuel-efficient, thanks to a new 4.6-liter twin-turbo V8 and seven-speed transmission.

So far, test drivers report that there’s no turbo lag, and that the engine is powerful and quiet. “The V8 has a nice little growl when pushed hard but quiets down at cruising speed,” writes AutoWeek. “A stop-start feature to save fuel and reduce emissions is standard, and it worked seamlessly on our test drive in Tuscany." The new engine is smaller than the previous model’s 5.5-liter V8, but it’s also more powerful thanks to twin turbochargers, and the automotive press generally likes the performance.

Although Mercedes boasts that the redesigned 2012 CLS is bolder, sportier and sleeker than its predecessor, many reviewers think that the outgoing model’s groundbreaking design is a tough act to follow. However, one aspect of the redesigned exterior that reviewers love is the optional LED headlights with adaptive high beams and Active Curve Illumination. “These are the slickest all-singing, all-dancing lamps you've ever seen, with every adaptive lighting function you can imagine being provided by LEDs: they bend in turns, swivel to look ahead when you turn onto side roads, automatically dip the high beams for oncoming traffic-but only on the left side so you can still see to your right,” says Automobile Magazine.

Most test drivers are pleased with the 2012 CLS’ interior, but some think the back seat can be cramped for taller passengers. The interior of the 2012 CLS features a chunky, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seats and either burl walnut or optional black ash wood trim. Reviewers generally like the look, and say the standard navigation and COMAND system are relatively easy to use. That’s a big deal for Mercedes, since the first few generations of its COMAND infotainment and navigation system were blasted for being confusing and counterintuitive.

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

best car 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ranks 1 out of 13 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

A luxurious interior and an improved powertrain make the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class a top choice among luxury sedans.

There’s a reason why the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is at the top of the luxury large car heap. Although Mercedes redesigned the E-Class in 2010, the automaker continues to tweak and improve the E-Class sedan. Autoblog writes, “If we didn't know any better, we'd swear the E-Class is trying to be a better S-Class."

Inside, the E-Class is basically unchanged for 2012. Reviewers find the same comfortable, opulent interior seen on the 2011 model, and although critics love the high-quality materials and excellent build quality, they do have a few concerns. They note that the E-Class’ price can inflate quickly with options, and while the E-Class comes standard with Mercedes’ COMAND system, a handful of reviewers say that it complicates audio, climate and navigation functions.

However, the E-Class still has a spacious back seat, a large trunk and some significant updates under the hood. Both the E350 and E550 have increased power and fuel efficiency for 2012, and the E550 now comes standard with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive. Shoppers looking for great fuel economy may also want to consider the diesel-powered E350 Bluetec.

With so many available options, there’s an E-Class that will suit every shopper’s needs, provided you’ve got the cash to buy one.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

best car 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class ranks 4 out of 10 Luxury Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 7 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The redesigned 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has a high price for a three-row luxury crossover, but reviewers say that if you can pay for it, you’ll love the GL’s performance and high-tech features.

Test drivers love the way the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL drives, and appreciate the great fuel economy from its standard diesel engine. Though they write that the base engine is powerful enough for around-town driving, reviewers love the more-powerful V8 engines available in higher trims. They also write that the GL’s handling is smooth and flat in the corners, and that it feels more nimble than most other large SUVs in its price range. Unlike most other luxury large SUVs, the GL isn’t meant for off-roading, but most auto writers say that its standard all-wheel drive should be plenty capable for most muddy roads or snowy driveways that buyers will encounter.

On the inside, reviewers say the GL is roomy, luxurious and available with lots of interior tech. They write that the GL’s cabin is nicer than most of its competition, and they appreciate the power-folding second-row seats that make the third row easy to access. In past generations, reviewers complained about Mercedes’ confusing COMAND infotainment system and that criticism persists, along with charges that the system feels dated as well. Plus, many note that in order to get the cool tech features like night vision assist or active lane keeping assist, shoppers are forced to upgrade to higher trims or add expensive options packages.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

best car 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class ranks 9 out of 10 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 12 published reviews and test drives of the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Though reviewers agree that the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK is powerful, they say its lack of passenger and cargo space make it impractical compared with other compact SUVs.

The base 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK has a standard 302-horsepower, V6 engine, a seven-speed automatic transmission and stop/start technology, which idles the engine when the GLK stops to conserve fuel. Overall, reviewers like the V6 engine’s power and say it’s evident as soon as they press the accelerator. Some test drivers think the start/stop system is unrefined and others say the transmission is slow to downshift. A 190-horsepower, four-cylinder diesel engine will be available in early 2013, but no reviewer has tested it yet and fuel economy ratings aren’t available yet. All-wheel drive is optional with either engine. According to the EPA, the GLK averages 19/25 mpg city/highway without all-wheel drive and 19/24 mpg with all-wheel drive. Though several car writers say the GLK’s rivals are sportier, they also say that the GLK has a car-like ride.

The 2013 GLK meets reviewer expectations with a cabin that’s both well-made and stylish. The base model lacks standard features, such as an iPod interface and leather seats, that are standard on many competitors. Still, some reviewers think the faux leather seats are nice, and say it’s hard to tell that the seats aren’t covered in real leather. One thing many auto writers complain about is the GLK’s lack of interior space. They find that the front-row seats are spacious, comfortable and offer outstanding visibility, but think the second-row seats are tight for a compact SUV. Reviewers are also disappointed that the GLK has less cargo space than many of its rivals.