Quick WOT Review: 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL350 Diesel SUV is Smooooth

Most luxury car buyers simply can’t bring themselves to consider minivans, even though many cross the $45,000 barrier with every option and become quite luxurious. For those who would prefer the image of a three-row SUV, Mercedes offers the GL350. After filling the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL350’s three rows of seating with family on a weekend getaway, I had plenty to say.

MT Staff Picks: The Best and Worst Cars We Drove in 2011

Another of the many end-of-2011 blogs pitched to other editors on Motor Trend’s WOT blogs, this controversial post asked many editors — myself included as the third contributor — to comment on the best and worst vehicles they’d driven throughout 2011. I’m privileged to drive and review anything at all, and this proved to be a bit of a challenge.

Our Cars: 2010 Ram 2500 HD – Highway Cruising and Moving Duties

After driving the Ram 2500 HD over the extended winter break in traffic, on city streets, and on the open road I’ve concluded that it’s — surprise! — too big for L.A.  Even so, I would have had to make many more trips while hauling an apartment’s worth of stuff in a smaller vehicle.

Our Cars: 2010 Hyundai Tucson – Still Holding ‘Almost There’ Status

This Tucson is impressive considering the vehicle it replaces, but solid design only carries this small SUV so far.

Our Cars: 2009 335d – Great Cruising Range, But Needs Easy Diesel Locator

After a weekend trip to Santa Barbara with Motor Trend’s long-term 2009 BMW 335d, I won’t repeat everything that’s been said about the BMW’s solid steering, handling, and braking, but I did have a few issues.

Our Cars: 2010 Subaru Outback – Do Its Virtues Overcome Questionable Styling?

After driving Motor Trend’s long-term Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited over highways, winding roads, and in heavy traffic, I know I could recommend the SUV, but not without a couple qualifications unique to this trim level.

Our Cars: 2010 Buick LaCrosse – Technology and Design

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Like the red 2008 Cadillac CTS in the photo above at the left, the Buick LaCrosse is impressive before you pull away from the curb — especially at night. Similar to Subarus and other cars, the LaCrosse’s gauges do a full sweep upon startup, but with the LaCrosse, those turning HIDs sweep back and forth, as well.

Our Cars: 2011 Kia Sportage – Stylish Details

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

You can’t miss the new 2011 Kia Sportage, especially with the upsized alloy wheels and bright orange paint of our test car. At night, LED light pipes project from the headlights, an unexpected touch for a Kia.