Engineering

The Top Car Models of 2012

2012 was an exciting year for cars. Manufacturers from Detroit, Japan and everywhere else in the world showcased the innovative new technologies that will lead automobiles into the next generation. So what were the top five models that shone past the rest of the pack?

Toyota-Camry

Toyota Camry

Those who are looking for a sedan may want to look at the Toyota Camry. The Toyota Camry has been one of the best selling cars of the past decade, and with the current models of the vehicle, this does not look to change. What makes the Camry popular is its practicality. It has some power behind it too. Depending on the model, the Camry has horsepower from 178-268 and features fuel economy up to 25 miles in the city and 35 miles on the highway. You can expect to pay as little as $22,000 for the classic L series. The only complaints users have had are the look of the interior and the steering. [Image by Rudolf Stricker].

Chevrolet-Silverado-2500HD-Single-Cab

Chevrolet Silverado HD

If you’re looking for a pickup with horsepower behind it, the Chevy Silverado HD may be the truck for you. The Chevy Silverado features some serious hauling power, so whatever you load, you shouldn’t have a problem. There are several cab styles, including 2 door, 4 door with rear access doors and 4 door front-hinged. The Silverado has a V6 engine that boasts 360 HP. You’ll have no problem cruising in this pickup. However, you may have to pay a little more for gas. You can expect to get a combined 17 mpg with the Silverado HD. Prices for this truck start at $29,000.

Honda-CR-V

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V was one of the most popular SUVs in 2012. This may be due to its incredible handling, roominess and overall value. You can expect to pay as little as $22,500 for a 2012 Honda CR-V. If you have a family, this is the crossover SUV for you. The overall space and family features make it very worthwhile. Additionally, you will get excellent acceleration on this model. Its 2.4 liter DOHC engine will generate up to 180 HP. Moreover, you will get 23 city miles and 31 highway miles out of this model. The only complaint for the SUV is the lack of engine upgrade.

Audi-TT-RS

Audi TT RS

The 2012 Audi TT RS has stunned those in auto shows and on the lot. This sports car was made to challenge the top models from Porsche and it does not disappoint. It features a 2.5-liter inline 5 cylinder engine that can blow up to 340 HP. That is some serious power. It can go up to 174 mph for those looking for some serious speed. Some don’t believe that it can live up to others in this luxury sports class, like the 911, but that is up to the user. For those who like it, it can be had for $56,850. It’s fuel economy is a tad light as well. Expect to get 25 highway mileage and 18 city miles by the gallon.

Toyota Prius III

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius is still the class of the hybrid models in the automobile world. The 2012 model piggybacks off previous Prius models and features a mpg of over 51 city miles and 48 on the highway. Additionally, the car has some pop as well with its 1.8 engine blowing up to 134 HP. The only problem some may have with the car is its noisiness. You can purchase a 2012 Toyota Pruis for $24,000 MSRP.

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Paul Tomaszewski is a science & tech writer as well as a programmer and entrepreneur. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of CosmoBC. He has a degree in computer science from John Abbott College, a bachelor's degree in technology from the Memorial University of Newfoundland, and completed some business and economics classes at Concordia University in Montreal. While in college he was the vice-president of the Astronomy Club. In his spare time he is an amateur astronomer and enjoys reading or watching science-fiction. You can follow him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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