5 Dark Horse Cars Worth a Test Drive
Some cars get more credit than they deserve, while others languish in obscurity because of any number of factors -- lack of brand prestige, poor advertising, odd styling. Yet here are five from popular segments that are certainly worth a test drive.
1) Ford Fusion: True, the Fusion's popularity has been rising after its quasi-redesign for 2010 and Ford's improved reputation. But whether in four-cylinder, hybrid or Sport guises, the Fusion is now a class-leading entry in the family sedan class.
"The Ford Fusion is a wonderfully well-rounded automobile. The Sport is simply its best version, offering an ideal ride/handling balance that is comfortable enough for the average buyer, but sporty enough for enthusiasts." - Family Sedan Comparison Test
2) Hyundai Elantra: Considering buying a Toyota Corolla? Don't, consider an Elantra instead. It's more comfortable, has sharper handling, it has a spacious interior and its cabin quality is superior. That's not to mention its lower price and longer warranty. The Elantra is the best pick for comfort-minded economy car buyers.
"The 2010 Hyundai Elantra is one of those cars that will make you feel like you've found something special. It's like a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant that doesn't look like much from the outside but serves up tantalizing meals on the inside, The unassuming Elantra aces just about every test that really matters for economy car buyers." - 2010 Hyundai Elantra Model Review
3) 2010 Subaru Outback: Some will say that the new Outback is ugly. OK, it is a little bit. Some will say it isn't as fun as before. OK, it isn't. But the Outback is a smart alternative to compact and midsize crossovers alike, delivering impressive interior space and fuel economy. It offers a comfortable, quiet ride on road and can venture off-road further than most crossovers would dare to go.
"The 2010 Outback has grown up to meet a changing marketplace ... We're not sure how Subaru's faithful will take to this new direction, but for the rest of the crossover-buying public, the new Outback certainly has appeal." - 2010 Subaru Outback Test Drive
4) Volvo C30: Remember the Hot Hatch Face-Off Tournament? Well, I must plead guilty for leaving out a worthy participant -- the Volvo C30. This is arguably one of the nicest looking three-door hatchbacks with underpinnings shared with the Mazda 3 and a solid turbo-5 engine. Yet, even we're guilty of forgeting about this enjoyable little car.
"The Volvo C30 has an advantage as an everyday commuter, with its softer ride, roomier interior and more convenient storage. Style also factors prominently in the C30's appeal, as the hipster interior treatments and customizable features should attract those seeking a bit more individuality and panache. With Volvo's reputation for safety and the C30's affordability (providing options are taken in moderation), Volvo's newest hatchback is a worthy alternative to the dime-a-dozen Mini Coopers and Volkswagen GTIs." -- 2009 Volvo C30 Model Review
5) Buick LaCrosse: This all-new Buick easily knocked out the Lexus ES 350 in the recent Inside Line comparison test, and I think many American buyers will actually prefer it over the CTS. I'd say it has a slightly nicer interior and it certainly has a more comfortable ride and welcoming back seat. Whether being considered against one of those bonified luxury sedans or simply a Ford Taurus, the LaCrosse is the real deal.
"At first we questioned GM's strategy, not only with the LaCrosse itself but also with the notion of Buick as a genuine competitor for Lexus. But after this comparison, we have no doubt that the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is a game-changing, brand-defining automobile that will go far to both revitalize Buick and promote the new General Motors." - Inside Line LaCrosse-ES 350 Comparison
James Riswick, Automotive Editor
- Posted by
- James Riswick September 23, 2009, 3:00 AM
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- Categories:
- Buick, Ford, Hyundai, Subaru, Test Cars and Car Reviews, Volvo
The Lacrosse is great. My only issue is the lack of visibility but overall, the car is hard to beat. Way more features for the money compared to the competition (except the Genesis).
The Outback is very ugly, but still worth a drive. Don't forget the redesigned Legacy too. Function > Form. Function FTW!
No love for the Mitsubishi Galant? That's ok, I don't have any love for it either.
@subytrojan
I agree with you 100% except the Outback is a little more than very ugly. But I bought my Subaru for function. Otherwise I would've got an infiniti FX50
Show a picture of the C30's back end. It looks like they could not figure out what to do and just took a giant cleaver to it. The brake lights make it look like it's still bleeding. I imagine the same people who buy into the whole "Volvos are safe" thing also like bigger cars to feel safe.
And the C30 is affordable as long as you take it easy on the options? Seriously? Even the base price of $24k for a little 2-door aint cheap. The inconvenience of a 2-door kills the deal.
The Buick is a handsome car and a giant improvement in many regards over anything in the current Buick stable. Problem is (and it's a big one) is trying to convince anyone who's not a soft-ride loving boomer that a Buick is the car they want, not the Lexus.
gearhead1977,
anyone considering an ES350 (the only lexus that would compete with the lacrosse)IS a "soft-ride loving boomer"- or they have never been in one and are just shopping for a badge.