Best new cars to test drive this spring

Every year brings with it a few new cars (or updates of older models) that are awaited with bated breath by car enthusiasts. After all, who wouldn’t want to be among the first to take a new model out for a test drive? Here are some of the bigger releases scheduled over the course of this year.



One of the most anticipated cars for 2011 is the new model of the Ford Fiesta - and early test drives show that it does not disappoint. In fact, the new Fiesta is already ranked at the top of various affordable small car class rankings. The Fiesta has features rarely seen in its class, such as heated seats, Ford's SYNC system and a driver’s knee airbag. On top of that, it manages to get hybrid-like fuel economy without costing as much as most hybrids.



Then there is the Hyundai Sonata. Completely redesigned for 2011, the new Sonata is one of the most unusual-looking midsize sedans you will see on the market. However, it is now one of the cheapest cars in its class and comes with impressive standard features like XM satellite radio and Bluetooth capability. Early reviewers like it so much that at press time, the Sonata was ranked at the top of its class. Hyundai offers the Sonata with a four-cylinder engine and as it’s a light car, it offers plenty of power. Even better is its impressive fuel economy. The 2011 Sonata is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car in its class.

The 2011 Kia Sorento has lost its truck-based platform and is now one of the most comfortable and powerful compact SUVs on the market. It’s even giving class leaders like the Toyota RAV4 a run for their money. The Sorento has an optional third-row seat (which is rare in this class) superior warranties, and impressive standard features like Bluetooth. Kia estimates that its fuel economy is about average for its class but that’s pretty impressive considering that the Sorento can accommodate up to seven passengers.



Holden has just released the 2011 Holden Commodore VE Series II - Australia’s first car that offers flex-fuel technology. Both ordinary petrol and premium petrol can be used or E85 fuel, which is available at selected service stations. The new Commodore also offers other improvements on previous models. It features cosmetic revisions, mainly to the front and rear bumper bars. There are also a range of new technologies applied to the interior to enhance passive comfort and Holden’s 3.0-litre and 3.6-litre V6 engines have also been re-engineered and now produce less emissions and are more fuel efficient than the previous variants. Other standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, iPod and MP3 compatibility and memory USB stick ports.



However, if you do take any of these new models for a test drive, make sure that you don’t get carried away. You don’t own the car, so the last thing you want is to have to pay for any damage or windscreen repair that has had to be scheduled as a result of your driving!