2012 Kia Optima SX Sedan

2012 Kia Optima SX Sedan 

2.0L 4-cyl. engine
Automatic transmission
Up to 22 cty/34 hwy mpg
Bluetooth
iPod input
Satellite radio
Side/Curtain Airbags
Stability Control
Traction Control
Navigation System (Optional)
MSRP from $26,500

What's New for 2012

For 2012, the Kia Optima receives the optional Uvo voice command system on all but the base models and a minor shuffling of features between trim levels and option packages. The front seats have also been slightly reshaped for improved comfort.

Introduction

There was a time, not long ago, when the term "family sedan" was associated with sensible -- but dull -- vehicles. While these volume-selling cars occupied a large chunk of sales, they likely weren't the object of desire. Once in a while, though, a sedan like the 2012 Kia Optima comes along that makes you want it for more reasons than just how sensibly it transports your family.

The 2012 Kia Optima sees few changes from last year, and that suits us just fine. Compared to other family sedans, the Optima is a styling standout, with a level of aggression and modernity inside and out that we're accustomed to seeing in much more expensive cars. Thankfully, this beauty is also more than skin deep, as the Optima also benefits from a better-than-average ride quality and driving dynamics.

2011 BMW X6 xDrive35i SUV

2011 BMW X6 xDrive35i SUV

3.0L 6-cyl. engine
Automatic transmission
Up to 16 cty/23 hwy mpg
All-wheel drive
iPod input
Side/Curtain Airbags
Stability Control
Traction Control
Navigation System (Optional)
Satellite radio (Optional)
DVD player (Optional)
MSRP from $59,300

What's New for 2012

For 2012, the BMW X6 gains an optional rear center seat that increases passenger capacity to five. Otherwise, it sees no significant changes apart from a minor shuffling of standard and optional features.

Introduction

Sleek "coupelike" styling is all the rage lately. Four-door sedans with downwardly sweeping roof lines started it off a few years back, and the coupe concept now has been adopted by crossover SUVs, of which the BMW X6 is a prime example.

From the beltline down, the 2012 BMW X6 has all the expected characteristics of a crossover ute -- rugged styling, elevated ride height and all-wheel drive. But all this has been capped by a sloped roof line that suggests speed. Three inches shorter than the traditional X5 sport-utility with which it shares a platform, the X6 does indeed handle a bit better when you're driving fast. But just as with any coupe, there are compromises in the overall package, notably rear seat space and cargo capacity in this case.