2008 Audi A3 3.2 S-Line quattro "A package that begs to be flung about on the turnpike", the Audi A3 is also extremely practical, says columnist Michael Clark. Minor complaints include retractable sunshades that don't block out the hot Sun, and time-intensive spring-loaded temperature actuators.
2008 Lexus LX 570 While luxuriously equipped with soft leather seats, real wood trim, front and rear air conditioning, and navigation system, the interior of the new Lexus LX 570 is "an obvious facsimile of other Lexus models," says contributor Michael Clark.
2008 Nissan Altima Coupe 3.5 SE The Altima coupe is the 21st century definition of the boulevard cruiser, where the scene is to be seen, says contributor Michael Clark. "The best part is that when you're being seen, you won't be fumbling about in an unplanned interior."
2008 Nissan Altima Coupe 3.5 SE The Altima coupe is the 21st century definition of the boulevard cruiser, where the scene is to be seen, says contributor Michael Clark. "The best part is that when you're being seen, you won't be fumbling about in an unplanned interior."
2008 Dodge Dakota SXT Crew Cab 4X4 While the capability of the Dakota 4X4 cannot be questioned, larger concerns surround the lack of interior inspiration and functionality, says contributor Michael Clark.
For example, the transfer case dial is completely below the driver's line of sight, he says.
2008 Porsche Cayenne S As far as its interior goes, "the Cayenne is simply a Touareg 'ute with enhanced breeding," he says. "Exceptional road manners and drool-worthy acceleration aside, the Cayenne fails to deliver the expected Porsche Design quotient within."
2008 Hyundai Tucson GL FWD The compact Hyundai Tucson SUV has a "crisp and simple" interior layout, plenty of cup and bottle holders, fold-flat front passenger seat and a two-part tailgate, reports reviewer Michael Clark. "There's plenty of think within the Tucson," he says.
2008 Cadillac CTS "All of that Bob Lutz-flavoured talk regarding GM interiors wasn't just a smokescreen," remarks Michael Clark. "The quality control for this GM needs to be bottled up and sprayed with reckless abandon on the rest of the divisions," he says.
2008 Lexus GS450h For tree-huggers with cash, the Lexus GS 450h offers sumptuous luxury with a hybrid powertrain that reduces fuel consumption and emissions including CO2. But its large battery reduces trunk space considerably, says reviewer, Michael Clark.
2008 Mazda5 GT It's not that often that reviewer Michael Clark gets this excited about a vehicle. "Not only is the 5 jam-packed with sensible cargo solutions, it doesn't penalize you for all this thought with a price point that screams 'third mortgage'," he says.
2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid This week, Inside Story sports a new look, with feature highlights tied directly to the photos for easier reference. Columnist Michael Clark finds little to complain about the new Highlander Hybrid's interior, other than its cramped third row seat.
2008 Volvo XC70 3.2 XC70 Apart from limited engine serviceability, "the comfort levels and genuine 'think' within this Volvo's cabin are worth a visit by the entire contingent of manufacturer's design spies," reports contributor, Michael Clark. He gives the XC70's interior five stars.
2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 Well-finished and well-equipped, the VW Touareg 2's cabin features "tight tolerances, slick switches, and good grains for plastics, leather, and authentic Walnut trim," reports Michael Clark. His major beef is with the complicated folding rear seatbacks.
2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Saab is among the most appealing of any wagon, says contributor Michael Clark, as he tests the 9-3 SportCombi. Style, luxury and quality abound, but what's up with those staples?
2008 Mazda Tribute GT Basically a mildly restyled, rebadged Ford Escape, the Mazda Tribute has a comfortable cabin with minor design annoyances, says columnist, Michael Clark. Its split folding rear seats provide a flat cargo floor, and under the hood, engine fill points are accessible, he says.