Photo Credit: DriveClean.ca.gov

I want to bring your attention to a fantastic organization promoting fuel efficient cars, DriveClean.ca.gov. DriveClean.ca.gov is a web site of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) that helps car buyer’s find the cleanest, most efficient vehicles available. Since motor vehicles are responsible for more than half of the smog and global warming pollution in California, new vehicle purchases directly impact air quality, global warming and energy security.

Now that California requires the Environmental Performance (EP) Label on all new cars, it is easy to determine which cars are the cleanest and most efficient. This new Label provides a Global Warming and Smog Score from 1 to 10 with the cleanest and most efficient cars receiving the highest scores.

Visit DriveClean.ca.gov for more information about the EP Label, to compare scores and to find the latest incentives.

Photo Credit: CARandDRIVER.com

This is a comparison test between a German supercar with an Italian heart against an Italian icon. Competing in this battle is the Audi R8 5.2 FSI and the Ferrari 430 Scuderia. Ferrari has won every Car and Driver comparison tests it has contested but one, (Ford GT one upped a 360 Challenge Stradale.). Does the Audi R8 Have what it takes?

In the end, the Ferrari won again and its obsession is justified.

The Audi still scored very well as testers reported comfort and usability of a two-seat A4, an angry V-10, and quality design details and shape. However the brakes grabbed, the controls are slightly numb. They also believed it was dull for a 525-hp supercar, possibly too contrived.

Testers loved the Ferrari’s V-8 engine that was without rival, perfectly matched control feel, art everywhere, never a dull moment. However the Ferrari had a total lack of features and amenities, will eventually find another owner after your death. Overall it of course is a pricey car, but its goal of perfecting the driving experience is noble and perhaps achieved.

Photo Credit: CARandDRIVER.com

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

This is a comparison test between the ultimate modern American muscle cars. Competing in this battle are the Mustang GT, Challenger R/T, and Camaro SS. Basically a long road test following the old Pony Express trail across the West, this was an exciting comparison test to see which modern American muscle car came out on top.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

First, let’s take a look at the 2010 Mustang GT. Powered by a 315-hp 4.6-liter V-8, it has the smallest engine and least horsepower of the group. However, it is also the lightest of the group, weighing 290 lb. lighter than the Camaro and 550 lb. lighter than the Challenger. The Mustang feels quick, responsive and fun to drive. It also has a nice exhaust note.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

Next is the 2009 Challenger R/T. A surprisingly comfortable ride, it feels tight, smooth, and refined. With a 376-hp 5.7-liter V-8 and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, the engine makes true muscle car noises. Throttle response is perfect at any RPM. In addition, the appearance is designed just like the classic.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

Finally, there’s the 2010 Camaro SS. It has the most impressive engine with a 6.2-liter V-8 that produces 426 hp and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. The Camaro has tons of grip and good suspension with what seems like limitless horsepower, making it great fun to drive. Also, its aggressive and beautiful styling is enough to turn heads.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

In the end, the Mustang emerged victorious. The lightest, smallest and most agile of the group, it is also the most balanced, has the most grip, and enjoys the best fuel economy. Second place went to the Camaro SS. With its incredible looks, and most importantly its magnificent engine that seems to provide never-ending power, the Camaro is sure to be the favorite among the younger demographic. Although the Challenger R/T came in last, it is solid, refined, and comfortable. With the most room, softest handling, and great engine, the Challenger is a great all-around muscle car. However, obviously people have different perceptions and preferences. So which one would you pick?

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

How does the diesel-powered BMW 335d compare with the state-of-the-art direct-injected gasoline-powered Audi A4 3.2 Quattro? Well, each has its advantages and disadvantages, but only one comes out on top after testing across all categories. First, let’s take a look at what the Audi offers.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

Audi’s smooth V-6, which doesn’t top out at 4600 rpm like BMW’s diesel, makes it a fun car to drive. Its 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and optional Audi Drive Select, which allows you to adjust engine mapping, steering feel/response, and the suspension settings to Comfort, Dynamic, or Auto with the touch of a button are also advantages. In addition, the Audi’s all-wheel drive enhances performance and is good for rain and snow. All this, combined with a roomy and elegant interior make the Audi A4 3.2 Quattro an excellent sedan.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

On the other hand, there’s the performance-tuned 3.0-liter sequential twin-turbo diesel BMW 335d. With 265 bhp at 4200 rpm and 425 lb.-ft of torque at 1750 rpm, the inline-6 accelerates the car from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds and reaches a quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds. That’s 0.6 seconds quicker than the A4 3.2 in each category. Equipped with a stiffer suspension, summer performance tires, and sports seats, the BMW is an incredible sports sedan. Finally, another big advantage for the 335d is an EPA rating of 23/36 mpg, compared to the A4 3.2’s rating of 17/26 mpg.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

So overall, beating the Audi in every performance category while also being more environmentally friendly, the BMW 335d is definitely the winner of this comparison test.

Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

This is the ultimate battle of luxury sedans. BMW plans to give the 2010 760Li a new direct-injected, twin-turbocharged and inter-cooled DOHC 48-valve V-12. With 536 bhp and 553 lb.-ft of torque, the luxury missile will launch from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds while reaching a ¼ mile in 12.5 seconds. If not for the top speed governor which is set at 155 mph, the 760Li would probably be capable of reaching 190 mph. It is also the first BMW to be equipped with the new ZF eight-speed automatic.

On the other hand, Mercedes has made the 2010 S600 as good as ever. Although not much has changed in the physical appearance, the new S-class is jam-packed with state-of-the-art technology including adaptive high-beams, pedestrian detection for night-view assist, a lane-keeping system, and an attention-assist system among many other features. It also comes standard with active body control adaptive suspension and hydraulically boosted steering. Powered by a 512-hp, 612 lb.-ft 12-cylinder engine, the ultra luxury sedan accelerates to 60 in 4.2 seconds and reaches a ¼ mile in 12.6.

Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

With the BMW 7-series now on par with the Mercedes S-class in terms of engine, this comparison seems just too close. Although the BMW may be a bit more modern, the edge still goes to the Mercedes and its unparalleled overall driving experience.

For news about exciting new cars, click here. Also, check out this site for concept cars.

Photo Credit: RoadandTrack.com

Both with supercharged V-8 engines producing over 500 horsepower, stiffened and electronically adjustable suspension systems, big brakes, and sporty interiors, it’s hard to distinguish a clear-cut winner of these two leading sports sedans. The Cadillac CTS-V’s 6.2-liter V-8 producing 556 bhp and 551 lb.-ft of torque allows it to beat the Jaguar XFR and its 5.0-liter V-8 producing 510 bhp and 461 lb.-ft of torque in every speed comparison. More surprisingly, the Cadillac’s superb handling combines to give it the edge across all performance categories. However, the Jaguar does seem to have the advantage of a smoother, more comfortable ride, as well as a superior interior in terms of quality and presentation. Still, from a mostly performance standpoint, the CTS-V is the super sedan king, especially considering the $21,230 less it would lighten your wallet. For more on this comparison, click the following link: 2009 Cadillac CTS-V vs. 2010 Jaguar XFR

Click here to check out more Cadillac news.

If you’re in the market for a compact car, then you’ve probably considered both the Chevrolet Aveo and Dodge Caliber. We’ve decided to put them head to head.

Coming in around $5,000 cheaper, the Chevy Aveo has the advantage out of the gate. On top of that, the Aveo offers better mileage (27mpg city versus 24mpg city) and a superior green rating.

However, creature comforts are lacking in the Aveo (no options for a CD player, MP3 player, or even an AM/FM radio!). The Dodge Caliber offers an array of standard and optional Entertainment, Communication & Navigation devices – so if you spend a considerable amount of time driving, the Caliber might have a serious advantage for you.

Both cars perform as one could reasonably expect. The Chevy Aveo handles slightly better, but at the sacrifice of size (and interior space). Ultimately, there is no clear cut winner amongst these two compacts. But if you’re buying a primary vehicle, we’d lean towards the Dodge.

To get a better perspective, check out these comparison photos:

Chevrolet Aveo Hatchback – Dodge Caliber Hatchback

Image courtesy : whatcar.com