Buyer’s Guide: 2012 Autos

In This Guide
Buyer’s Guide: 2012 Autos
Will U.S. motorists plug into the battery-car market? The 2012 model year could provide the big test for the new technology with an assortment of import and domestic battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids rapidly expanding the range of offerings available to American car buyers.
For those more interested in conventional gas or diesel products, as well as less extreme hybrid models, 2012 will also provide a range of new offerings that run the gamut, from microcars to premium-luxury sedans, as well as a rapidly growing array of crossover vehicles.
The good news is that in today’s hotly competitive market, manufacturers are reining in prices on their latest products even as they add more features. The coming year will see an emphasis on high-tech infotainment systems — like Ford’s popular Sync, Toyota’s EnTune, and the all-new Cadillac CUE — which offer increased features, such as the ability to read and respond to text messages, while improving functionality.
The 2012 models are also delivering better mileage than ever, even as many add significant improvements in performance. Hyundai’s 2012 line-up, for example, includes four different models offering at least 40 miles per gallon. Significantly, you don’t need to ante up for costly hybrid technology options to get great mileage this year.


