Mitsubishi Lancer GTS Function

On the bright side, the navigation system is effective once you figure out how to use it, and the Rockford Fosgate stereo’s sound quality is exemplary. Also noteworthy is the MCS’s 30-gigabyte built-in hard drive, which enables entire CDs to be ripped and stored for playback — a feature usually found on more expensive cars.

David Shamansky Blog

Toyota Venza V6 2WD Design/Fit and Finish

The 2009 Toyota Venza’s front-end styling is “inspired by the stances of athletes in competition,” according to Toyota. If you ask us, the headlights and toothy grille are uncomfortably reminiscent of a melted Ford Edge. From most other angles, though, the Venza’s styling is taut and upscale — kind of like a stretched Lexus RX. Interior styling is another high point, as we think the Venza’s swoopy dashboard is also distinctly Lexus-like. Materials quality is notably higher than in either the Highlander or the Camry, and we were pleased to discover that the Prius’ distinctively grained soft-touch dash and wheel covering has found its way into the Venza. Our tester was a preproduction vehicle, but fit and finish was nonetheless impressive, with consistent panel gaps and no audible squeaks or rattles.

David Shamansky

Saturn Astra XR Coupe

One factor that might fall in the 2009 Saturn Astra Coupe’s favor is that it’s one of only a couple of two-door compact hatchbacks on the market. Many highly rated models, such as the Honda Fit and Mazda Mazda3 wagon, only come in four-door options. Others like the Hyundai Accent are too small to be considered direct competitors. So even if buyers aren’t particularly moved by the Astra coupe’s sporty styling, dynamic handling or reasonable fuel economy, the relative lack of alternatives might be enough of a reason for some to buy.

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