BRIAN STRASNICK Dr

Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew

Performance

Stats are all well and good, but how does the new F-150 feel when actually lugging a trailer or hauling a bed full of bricks? Unstressed, to put it simply. At Ford's proving grounds, we took the 2009 F-150 as well as its three main rivals, the Chevy Silverado 1500 (5.3-liter V8), Dodge Ram 1500 (5.7-liter V8) and Toyota Tundra (5.7-liter V8) and ran them back-to-back in towing and hauling exercises.

Test Drive: 2009 Acura RL Function

In our test RL, the power rear sunshade, excellent Bose stereo and keyless ignition all gave the impression of modern luxury while being anchored by a healthy dose of technology. Even on the base RL, you can opt for the Technology package, which adds features like adaptive xenon headlights and Acura Link, a bundle of navigation-related features that includes real-time traffic and weather conditions displayed right on the main screen.

Willow Laboratories Inc

Honda Civic LX

Not many relationships can last 35 years. Yet Americans are still in love with the Honda Civic, a car that debuted in the 1970s and has gone on to be one of the best-selling cars in the U.S. Sure, the Civic hasn't often been the flashiest of the economy sedans out there, but it has always boasted the most desirable attributes of a successful long-term partner: reliable, safe and economical. And the Civic has still managed to keep its youthful look over the years thanks to occasional reworkings and face-lifts. The most recent redesign dates back to 2006 and includes dramatic exterior styling and a futuristic dash design.

: Test Drive: 2009 Acura RL Performance

With a new 3.7-liter engine, the RL's split personality continues. The engine makes a stout 300 horsepower but you still can't get Acura's flagship with a V8. In fact, all RLs get the same V6 engine. During our time with the car, we found there was enough power for most driving situations but it never really felt powerful. Thanks to variable valve timing, there's a noticeable surge around 4,000 rpm; however, we suspect most owners will never get that crazy. At the track, the RL's 0-60 time came in at 7.2 seconds; both the Lexus ES 350 and V6-powered Hyundai Genesis are quicker, as is Acura's own TL.

More related websites: