Has Ford Abandoned the Little Guy?

Ford Focus RS

Once again, Ford is dropping a model. This time it is the EcoSport, which is its smallest and most cost-effective utility vehicle. Yesterday, we enumerated the reasons why that is happening, particularly with Ford shutting down its Indian manufacturing base. Ford also builds the EcoSport in Romania for the European … Read more

Ford Focus, Fiesta Transmission Troubles Not Over Yet

The Ford Motor Company has received thousands of complaints about the dual-clutch transmissions found in some of its models. Specifically, owners of 2011-2016 Fiesta and 2012-2016 Focus models have complained to Ford about problems, which have caused these cars to operate dangerously or break down. Ford settled one suit earlier … Read more

The Range-Topping 2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI (Review)

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Behind the wheel of Volkswagen’s best-equipped Jetta. The Volkswagen Jetta may “only” come available as a sedan, but what this automaker does to set it apart in a crowded (and shrinking) segment is worth investigating. Yes, diesels are no longer available, but there are three turbocharged four-cylinder gas engines to … Read more

New Engine, Fresh Interior for 2015 Ford Focus

Mid product cycle updates loom large for compact Focus. The Ford Focus is an instantly recognizable name, with more than 1 million units sold annually worldwide. Ford has said that the Focus is the best selling vehicle in the world, a claim that Toyota disputes. What is beyond dispute is … Read more

Top 5 Selling Compact Cars of 2013

2013 Honda Civic

Compact cars are nearly as popular as midsize models, small front-wheel drive models that typically retail for under $20,000. Also known as C-segment models, these vehicles are produced by every full line manufacturer and are typically sold as sedans with hatchbacks usually part of the mix as well. Top Selling … Read more

First Drive: 2014 Toyota Corolla

Be forewarned: if you have yet to see the all-new Toyota Corolla you may be in for a surprise. Or two. Or more. The Corolla is Toyota’s top-selling model after the Camry, a compact sedan that rolled out stateside in summer 1968. More than 40 million Corollas have been built … Read more

The Hidden Benefits of Stick Shift Transmissions

In a driver’s search for improved gas mileage and more value, the hidden benefits of a manual transmission often get overlooked. Through extensive research, automotive technologists and experts have found that a stick shift can improve gas mileage by a notable two to five miles per gallon compared to an … Read more

Best Compact Cars of 2012

2012 Toyota Corolla

The compact car segment has strengthened in recent years as new models enter the fray, contending with established leaders including the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. These days, every major manufacturer has a stake in the segment with the Dodge Dart the most recent entry to hit the market. For … Read more