Thursday, October 25 2012 10:50 AM EDT2012-10-25 14:50:50 GMT
A box is a mighty efficient shape for lots of storage space and the Ford Flex is certainly a big box. For 2013, the front end is redesigned and looks much better. Our test car is the loaded limited modelMore >>
A box is a mighty efficient shape for lots of storage space and the Ford Flex is certainly a big box. For 2013, the front end is redesigned and looks much better. Our test car is the loaded limited model with optional all-wheel drive; very reassuring on a rain-soaked day.More >>
Friday, October 19 2012 12:00 PM EDT2012-10-19 16:00:37 GMT
I always think the Infiniti FX series looks like something a space alien would drive. Love it or hate it, nothing else on the road looks the same.The FX37 replaces the FX35. The change comes from a largerMore >>
If you like a car with distinct styling, the 1013 Infiniti FX37 certainly stands out.More >>
Friday, October 19 2012 11:38 AM EDT2012-10-19 15:38:41 GMT
Big towing ability means a big truck, and the Ram 3500 HD Crew Cab is certainly huge. Our test truck is the dressed-up Laramie edition with lots of chrome, dual rear wheels and gorgeous True Blue PearlMore >>
Big towing ability means a big truck, and the Ram 3500 HD Crew Cab is certainly huge. Our test truck is the dressed-up Laramie edition with lots of chrome, dual rear wheels and gorgeous True Blue Pearl paint.More >>
Friday, October 19 2012 11:36 AM EDT2012-10-19 15:36:00 GMT
You can hear and see that the 2012 Fiat Abarth is something much more than just a "cute" Fiat 500. There are scorpion logos plastered everywhere to serve as reminders that the Abarth has enough performanceMore >>
After almost 30 years, Fiat of Italy is back selling cars in the U.S. market after it's merger with Chrysler. Consumer Reporter Dennis Buterbaugh reviewed the Fiat 500 Abarth on Cool Car Thursday.More >>
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) -
You can hear and see that the 2012 Fiat Abarth is something much more than just a "cute" Fiat 500. There are scorpion logos plastered everywhere to serve as reminders that the Abarth has enough performance to make it truly fun to drive.
Under the hood is where the car shines. The addition of a turbo to the 1.4 liter engine kicks horsepower to 160, up from 101 in the base car. Upgraded brakes, suspension and exhaust help, too.
In addition to lots of style, the little Fiat's interior works pretty well, too. While the seats are comfortable for around town, a lack of lower back support is apparent on longer trips. Since the steering wheel tilts but does not telescope, a straight-armed driving position can get tiring. A neat $400 option is the Tom-Tom GPS and Bluetooth unit that plugs right into the dash for power, so no cord is needed.
A five-speed manual is the only transmission in the Abarth. An automatic is available on a base 500.
You expect an extremely tight back seat in such a small car, but boosters and baby seats fit just fine. Fold the back seats and 5.4 cubic feet of cargo space appear.
The car's exhaust is loud, but it fits the Abarth's personality. The suspension soaks up bumps while still being tight and responsive.
So Dennis gives a thumbs up to the Fiat Abarth's great handling, great mileage and great style, but a thumbs down to the loud exhaust, non-telescoping steering wheel and tight back seat.
He averaged about 33 miles per gallon in the Fiat that has an as tested sticker price of $25,200.
