The industry is moving away from conventional V6 and V8 engines toward turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines in the pursuit of fuel efficiency. Expect a smaller engine in your next car that produces similar power, though sometimes with a bit more noise. Being flexible on engine choice can pay...

The industry is moving away from conventional V6 and V8 engines toward turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines in the pursuit of fuel efficiency. Expect a smaller engine in your next car that produces similar power, though sometimes with a bit more noise. Being flexible on engine choice can pay real dividends in fuel savings.

Most hybrids provide excellent fuel economy. The exceptions are mild hybrids and hybrid trucks designed to optimize power. Hybrid models also tend to be quite reliable. Plug-ins provide electric-only power for 20-50 miles; they are well suited to drivers whose daily driving is within that range, but...

Most hybrids provide excellent fuel economy. The exceptions are mild hybrids and hybrid trucks designed to optimize power. Hybrid models also tend to be quite reliable. Plug-ins provide electric-only power for 20-50 miles; they are well suited to drivers whose daily driving is within that range, but they may not be worth the added cost if owners don’t keep them charged.

Premium gas is much more expensive than regular. It is commonly required on luxury vehicles and sports cars. But if it is only “recommended,” as indicated on the fuel filler door, then it is optional. But choosing to not use it may impact peak horsepower.

Premium gas is much more expensive than regular. It is commonly required on luxury vehicles and sports cars. But if it is only “recommended,” as indicated on the fuel filler door, then it is optional. But choosing to not use it may impact peak horsepower.

Generally, interior space scales along with the size of the exterior, but not always. It is important to ensure the driver can easily enter the car, and that there is adequate leg, elbow, and headroom. With that established, check the back seat: Is there adequate space, headroom, and comfort for you...

Generally, interior space scales along with the size of the exterior, but not always. It is important to ensure the driver can easily enter the car, and that there is adequate leg, elbow, and headroom. With that established, check the back seat: Is there adequate space, headroom, and comfort for your passengers, with the driver’s seat in its typical position? The middle seat in most sedans is suitable for only short trips.

Cargo space, and how useful it is, varies among cars, even of the same size. For traditional sedans, look at the dimensions of the trunk, the size of the opening, and if the hinges will intrude on space when the lid is closed. With hatchbacks, pay attention to the angle at the rear. A sloped liftgat...

Cargo space, and how useful it is, varies among cars, even of the same size. For traditional sedans, look at the dimensions of the trunk, the size of the opening, and if the hinges will intrude on space when the lid is closed. With hatchbacks, pay attention to the angle at the rear. A sloped liftgate will limit the size of boxy items that will fit. And with all cars, check to see how flat the rear seat folds.

Simple answer: Any car that is CR Recommend is both good and safe. CRs’ safety ratings include assessments of crash-avoidance capabilities and crash-test results, based on tests performed by the federal government and insurance industry.

Simple answer: Any car that is CR Recommend is both good and safe. CRs’ safety ratings include assessments of crash-avoidance capabilities and crash-test results, based on tests performed by the federal government and insurance industry.