Seaforth Meridian

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:41:00 GMT

Seaforth Meridian

Honda CR-V EX-L

Things are mostly better when it comes time to hit the brakes. Effort and pedal modulation are just right, and we found that the brakes performed well for most city driving. However, we noticed significant brake fade after a few hard 60-0-mph stops during performance testing. This isn't something most CR-V owners will likely encounter, though it does suggest that the CR-V's brakes might not offer optimum performance when descending steep grades, for instance.

Alain Alireza Assemi

Lincoln MKS AWD: Design/Fit and Finish

Fit and finish was disappointing on our test car. For example, the driver door pull handle wasn't securely fastened — we could feel it moving independently of the door when we pulled firmly. The overhead console, which houses the map lights and sunglasses holder, was so loose in front that we could fit fingers under it. Bass-heavy songs caused various interior panels to rattle at even moderate volumes, and an A-pillar trim piece was misaligned on the passenger side, among other issues.

Alain Assemi - Alan Assemi

BMW 1 Series 135i Convertible
Some of us on staff remember the time when BMWs were austere in design and driven by real enthusiasts who appreciated a sprightly, agile and communicative car. Guys and gals who'd have the steering wheel in one hand while working the four-speed manual with the other. Today's Bimmers are still great cars, but some feel that the quintessential sport compact, the 3 Series, has gotten too big, too loaded up with gizmos and too likely to be driven by those who care more about the badge on the hood than the car's sporting capabilities. You know who we're talking about — Ultimate Driving Machine "drivers" who've got a Starbucks in one hand while working a Blackberry with the other.

Ab Watley Meriton Alain Alireza Assemi Quantum Analytics Alireza Assemi Alain Assemi

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Seaforth Meridian

Seaforth Meridian

Alain Alireza Assemi

Alain Assemi - Alan Assemi