The Car Connection

It's that exciting time when you've decided to buy a new car. Of course you have lots to choose from, but is your neighbor really the person who should advise you? Let's check four sites that will give you the most important info.

Let's look at the Chevy Equinox. With an MSRP starting at $22,615, this midsize SUV is fuel-efficient at an estimated 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Imagine traveling 600 miles, waving at gas stations as you drive. It offers more legroom, and new styling. You also have a choice of four cylinders. The Equinox, while being a smaller crossover, compares favorably to the CR-V, RAV4, and Escape Hybrid.

You might be checking out the Toyota Venza. The 2010 has an MSRP starting at $26,275. The body has a tall-wagon style and is similarly built to Toyota Camry and Avalon. This fastback comes with a four-cylinder engine, giving you good gas mileage. It's available with a V6, 6-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive. As for fuel economy, the EPA numbers are 25 highway, 18 city. It's been called a "sort of" sedan, a hatchback, and a crossover. See for yourself.

Maybe the BMW X6 M is the car of your dreams. The 2010 MSRP is $89,000. It compares with the Porsche Cayenne and the Mercedes M-Class. BMW calls it a sports activity coupe. Choose from two powerful engines. The X6 seats four, and this is the first time a M style offers all-wheel drive as standard. BMW boasts zero to 60 time as 4.5 seconds. The 2010 X6 updates last year's features, like HD radio and BMW's iDrive, managing climate control, audio and the navigation systems, if you should choose one. The optional Sport Package offers upgrades increasing horsepower by 20 hp and torque by 30 pounds/ft.

Are you ready for the Mercedes Benz SL Class? This convertible is offered in both V-8 and V-12. The V-8 starts at $100,000 and the V-12 $196,000 (before you start adding toys), and has been called stunning in all styles. These roadsters compare to the Porsche 911, Ferrari California, Jaguar XK and Audi R8. The 2010 SL has upgraded styling from the 2009, Never fear -- this car has amazing standard equipment...telescoping steering wheel, leather everything, power seats, navigation, satellite radio and more.

The Car Connection

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