2012 Ford Explorer - 225,000 Miles or Bust

Before 2011, Ford Explorers were never high on my list of vehicles with exciting design, so when I heard about the re-design, I didn't give it much thought since the last re-design wasn't what it said it was. But then I saw it. Finally an Explorer that's up-to-date, not too round, and not to square. But would it perform up to the standards that Explorer owners expect? Could it bring buyers from other brands? 

2012 Audi A6: Movin' On Up

Good design should be recognized & rewarded, and in my opinion Audi keeps raising the bar for automobile designers. The changes, design-wise, to the new 2012 Audi A6 aren't earth-shattering, but they are beautiful and functional. The changes to the transmission are worth noting -- this is a car that is fun to drive and so incredibly smooth you don't know when the automatic is shifting.

2011 Nissan Quest: Big & Modern

The Nissan Quest has a new look for 2011, and like the previous design, it isn't going to appeal to every one. I'm OK with that because the Quest drives like a much smaller vehicle, is incredibly smooth, and the technology inside overshadows the odd external styling. The 2011 Quest has creature comforts just right for an active family (including more dedicated storage space), and the drive is comfortable and enjoyable.