The 2011 Lexus RX Hybrid blends a luxurious interior and a refined powertrain with excellent fuel economy. Though it’s expensive compared to the gas-only RX, it’s been ranked “excellent” as a hybrid SUV.

When it comes to luxury mid-sizers, the Lexus RX has longed reigned popular for its high-end and high-tech interior and smooth performance. While the 450h Hybrid engine is impressive, it adds another $5,000 to the already high price tag. Even with rising gas prices, it would still take a while to recoup that extra investment in gas savings. Also considered a mid-size SUV, the Ford Flex really is in a class of its own and a nice alternative to the mini-van. The Chevy Traverse is another strong contender among the mid-sizers. With 24 MPG highway, The Chevy Traverse FWD offers better fuel economy than any eight-passenger crossover. When it comes to room, Traverse delivers there too, offering more cargo space than any vehicle in its class.

The seven-passenger Ford Flex is a good-looking, high-tech alternative for families who want minivan features without minivan style.

With its stylish good looks, spacious cabin, carlike ride and handling, plus decent fuel economy, the 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is a popular downsizing option for those used to driving large SUVs.

Cadillac style, the gorgeous and classy Range Rover, and the mystique of Jaguar…who wouldn’t love to drive any of these beauties.  But absent an immediate industry comeback and greatly fattened wallet, the price may put them out of reach for many.  Our primary criticism of the 2011 models so far would have to go to the luxury car makers for one reason.  With customers willing to pay the luxury price tag, it would appear that manufacturers of luxury priced vehicles simply fail to make much effort in fuel efficiency.  Whether the people with the money to buy these vehicles will flinch when gas prices rise will be something to observe, particularly when they fill them with the premium gas that’s recommended.

Cadillac has one of the best looks in crossovers, but compare the price tag and operating costs, and you may find that a fully loaded model from a lesser expensive competitor could do the job

2011 Cadillac SRX Turbo AWD Premium

Looks: One of our favorite crossovers

Drive: Critics have claimed that the base engine disappoints due to the fact that the SRX is heavier and larger than most crossovers, but it met our expectations.

Gadgets: In true Cadillac style, it’s loaded with the best.  But unless you have the money and relish the prestige associated with Cadillac or one of its other luxury Euro cousins in the crossover category (Lexus RX 350, Audi Q5, BMW X3 & X5, Mercedes GLK), consider taking a look at some of the lesser expensive crossovers (Chevy Equinox, GMC Traverse), and get them fully loaded for a closer comparison.

Fuel Efficiency: 15 MPG City; 22 MPG Highway

Base Price: $52,360

Total price with delivery charges and test vehicle’s upgrades: $55,555, including trailering package, rear seat entertainment system, roof cross rails, all weather floor mats, pet guard cargo net.

Most drivers would never have the occasion to fully appreciate the off road capabilities of the Range Rover Sport HSE.

2011 Range Rover Sport HSE

Looks: It’s simply gorgeous and classy—the definition of luxury.  But its pristine look is misleading; this one capable on roads the Grey Poupon guy wouldn’t think of being on.

But there’s a good reason that Queen Elizabeth choose the Range Rover when driving the hills and dales of her private kingdom, and those that can afford it will love just knowing what it’s capable of.

Drive: The performance version of the HSE, it comes with a choice of naturally-aspirated or supercharged V-8 engines, a six-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive. In spite of having a curb weight just under 6,000 pounds, it has excellent acceleration in the critical 20-to-50 mile-per-hour range and boasts 7.2-seconds zero-to-sixty. Most drivers would never have the occasion to fully appreciate the off road capabilities of this one, meaning that you’re paying for a lot of things that you may never use.

Gadgets: Land Rover’s terrain response system modifies throttle, transmission and suspension response according to the driving surface: road, grass/gravel/snow, mud/ruts, sand, or rock crawl.

Fuel Efficiency: 13 MPG City; 18 MPG Highway

Base Price: $59.645

Total price with delivery charges and test vehicle’s upgrades: $68,495  with premium audio package, luxury interior package and vision assist package.

2011 Jaguar XF Premium

The 2011 Jaguar XF Premium has been called the best looking sedan on the road today.

Looks: Designed by the same designer as the Aston Martin Leather, it’s been called the best looking sedan on the road today for good reason.  Outside, its subtle curves and wide fenders support all the mystique of Jaguar.  Inside, wood and aluminum (all standard) are everywhere.

Drive: The 85hp 5.0 Liter V8 makes allows it to pass its inferiors on the highway with confidence.  Steering and suspension work together to make the car feel much smaller than it is.

Gadgets: loaded, but nicely tucked away delivering the clean and simple look of luxury

Fuel Efficiency: 16 MPG City; 23 MPG Highway

Base Price: $56,500

Total price with delivery charges and test vehicle’s upgrades: $57,375 (just the transportation and handling charge; all the luxuries were standard)

Comfort and safety are two things that weigh heavy in the car buying decision. Volvo makes the mark!

Lane departure warning beeps with even the slightest stray; you know you need to pay a lot more attention when it tells you it’s time to stop for coffee!  Part of the $2100 Technology package that we thankfully did not test in action is Volvo’s pedestrian-detection system.  Aimed at the road ahead, the camera sends pictures to an onboard computer that tries to match them up to the computer’s database of more than 10,000 pedestrian images. If the computer “senses” an individual, it then uses the radar to determine how far away that person is. As the car continues to approach the pedestrian, the collision-warning alarm mounted at the base of the windshield will start flashing and sounding an alert in an attempt to warn the driver of an impending impact. Should the driver ignore the warning, the S60 will automatically employ full braking power until the car comes to a complete halt.

Looks: Smart and modern while maintaining those things that make it Volvo.

Drive: The standard all-wheel-drive system is 95 percent front-drive most of the time.  Care & Drive said it concisely:  “The primary controls, the powertrain, the ride, the sound—even the way the seat is cushioned—all come together in a harmonious and consistent way.” 

Gadgets: Finally, the sensible Swedish designer make a satellite radio that allows you to scroll through the hundreds of channels to find the one you want without all the complexity.  But most impressive are the advancements Volvo has made to retain its reputation for safety.

Fuel Efficiency: 18 MPG City; 26 MPG Highway

Base Price: $37,700

Total price with delivery charges and test vehicle’s upgrades: $46,200 with Premium Package, Technology Package and Climate Package

Buick has come a long way in making its all-new designed and engineered Regal a competitor to be reckoned with in the popular mid-size sedan category.  And you’ve got to appreciate that Dodge actually found ways to lower the entry cost on the 2011 Grand Caravan Crew while souping it up in style and conveniences.   We would have loved all the things it can do during our carpool years.  But this could also be a worthy choice to consider for anyone needing to haul families around to see property.

People look twice at the Regal to see if they saw it right. Yep it’s a Buick!

2011 Buick Regal CXL Turbo

Looks: Striking!  The Euro-design of the 2011 is definitely NOT your father’s Buick.

Drive: nice, tight suspension with some zip

Gadgets: all you would expect from a 2011 vehicle

Fuel Efficiency: 18 MPG City; 28 MPG Highway

Base Price: $28,745

Total price with delivery charges and test vehicle’s upgrades: $35,185 with rear seat mounted airbags, power sunroof, interactive drive control system with sport and tour modes, 19: allow wheels, high intensity headlamps, premium 9-speaker system, upgraded audio system with navigation

We would have loved all the things the Grand Caravan Crew can do during our carpool years. But this could also be a worthy choice to consider for anyone needing to haul families around to see properties.

Dodge Grand Caravan Crew

Looks: Capable of getting the job done! The 2011 has new crosshair front grille and a more sculpted front fascia.  In back are a redesigned bumper and a liftgate sporting sharper creases and new lettering. There’s also a smart new interior.

Drive: 2011 brings better suspension, and Chrysler’s more-powerful, more-efficient Pentastar V-6 engine.

Gadgets: Sliding doors and lifting hatchbacks make it easy to get the crew safely secured on their way.

Fuel Efficiency: 17 MGP City; 25 MPG Highway

2010 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, The “Green” TRUCK for “Green” Builders

Until you drive and experience the full size, powerful Silverado Hybrid you will always wonder if this green monster is for real. Like its GMC Sierra cousin, it is available in 4-door crew cab only. While crushing the competition in fuel economy with a nearly 50% improvement in the city (21MPG) and 25% overall, the Silverado still hauls with a towing capacity of 6100/2767 for the 2WD and 5900/2676 for the 4WD. The transmission is a 2-mode continuous electric ratio hybrid with four fixed gears. All you really need to know is that it has two types of motors–a powerful 6.0 liter/332 HP aluminum block gas engine and two 60-kilowatt electric motors  that  switch between the gas/electric power plants at optimal times for maximum efficiency and performance needs.

Wow!  With more than a 50-percent increase in fuel economy, the 2010 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid is another Ultimate Builder Machine. The gas savings are a tremendous help on the pocketbook that we can all appreciate, especially now.  The GM 2-mode continuous electric ratio hybrid transmission with four fixed gears and 6.0 l Vortec V-8 engine with active fuel management helped my two wheel drive text model to achieve a remarkable 21 MPG City and 22 MPG Highway.

When it comes to hybrid cars, Lexus’ first car available as a hybrid only is a luxury compact sedan vehicle that is a not shaped like an insect that screams “save the whales.” The Lexus HS 250h is for those who respect the environment, like saving money while being very comfortable, and don’t care whether or not anyone notices that they are driving a hybrid.  With a modified version of its Toyota Camry cousin’s hybrid powertrain, the HS 250h’s main power comes from a 2.4-liter gasoline inline-four making 147 horsepower. Two electric motors in the powertrain add an additional 40 horsepower, bringing the total to 187HP. The gasoline engine utilizes an automatic start/stop technology, which means once you press the start button on the dash the electric and gas engines will activate at the appropriate moment power is needed. When braking or idling, the electric motors recharge the nickel/metal-hydride batteries.  The transmission is extremely efficient and varies continuously to offer a seamless transition between gears.

The HS 250h’s technology and functionality are the fun part!  In the center control panel, there is a mouse-like toggle called “Remote Touch” that operates the Mark Levinson infotainment system with DVD audio, voice controlled navigation along with Lexus’ new Enform services. This command service center offers stock info including weather and sports. Upon starting the vehicle, a DVD screen pops up from the dash and tilts to give you a perfect viewing angle. There is a very convenient USB and audio jack to plug in your I-Phone, MP3 or I-POD. I plugged in my son’s I-Phone and he was ecstatic to see that his phone calls and songs integrated perfectly with the infotainment system. The phone calls were hands free and all his songs appeared in perfect order and sounded fantastic through the Mark Levinson stereo

The Chevy Volt assures the garage will become the service station of the future

Purely electric cars have served their purpose in getting a person to and from work.  But you better not run any unplanned errands that require driving outside of your normal route.  Limited driving range, and the time it takes to charge up the battery would also make the electric car highly impractical to take on a road trip.  The revolutionary new Chevy Volt is a game-changer and proves Chevrolet’s commitment to innovation that continues to evolve from gas-friendly to gas-free.

GM invested more than $700 million in eight Michigan plants to produce a front-wheel-drive, 4-passenger electric vehicle with extended-range capability.  “Extended range” means you don’t have those worries about running out of electric power and getting stuck away from your home or public charging station. The Volt differs greatly from a hybrid vehicle that uses electric power in low speed and depends upon the gas powered engine to provide enough power to assist it in reaching its cruising speed.  Its Voltec propulsion system combines pure electric drive capable of 100 mph and 0 to 60 in 9 seconds for about a 40 mile range.  Only when the battery energy is depleted, does the Volt seamlessly transition to extended-range mode, and the on-board engine generator turns on the 1.4L gas engine to move the car for about another 300 miles before the need to refuel or stop to recharge the battery.  This makes Volt the first electric car that can be the only car you need in your garage if you so choose!

The Volt’s long-life battery consists of a 5.5-foot, 435-point T-shaped, 16-kWh lithium-ion battery back

An advanced 111-kW (149 hp) electric drive unit powers the Volt’s wheels at all times.  The Volt’s long-life battery consists of a 5.5-foot, 435-point T-shaped, 16-kWh lithium-ion battery back which supplies energy to propel the vehicle in electric mode. Then, once depleted, power is inverted from a technically advanced 1.4L 63-kW (84-hp) gasoline-powered onboard engine to the electric drive unit.  Every aspect of the car was optimized to increase its electrical efficiency in order to increase its electric driving range and enhance its gas fuel efficiency, too.  Its aerodynamic exterior design, lightweight wheels, specially designed tires and energy-saving premium stereo system are just a few of the examples of its energy-saving engineering.  The EPA city cycle data estimates the 40-mile electric driving range under normal driving circumstances, however, our test drive in Austin showed that this is a conservative number.  But even 40 miles of completely gas-free travel per day would save approximately 500 gallons of gasoline a year.

Lithium-ion was chosen over nickel metal hydride for the Volt battery because it packs two to three times the power in a much smaller package and suffers little loss of charge with not in use.  The Volt battery pack is one of the first lithium-ion battery packs offered on a high-volume production vehicle and carries an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.  It is located in the center tunnel of the vehicle and protected by ultra high-strength steel. Major features include thermal management for durability and reliability, real-time diagnostics for safety and performance, cell design and chemistry for performance and efficiency and energy management for durability.

The Volt also proves that electric driving can be spirited.  Riding with a fellow Texas Auto Writers Association member who is also a speed demon, Steve got to see the Volt prove its 100 mph capability on the electric engine.  Thankfully, Austin area police must not be patrolling for speed as much as our DFW area police force.

The Volt comes equipped with a 20-foot 120V cord conveniently stowed in the cargo area.  Just plug it into any standard three-prong plug.  It will take about 10 to 12 hours to fully charge in a 120V outlet, but you have the option of purchasing and installing a 240V charging unit in your garage for about $500; this will accomplish a full charge in about four hours.  To encourage consumer purchases of electric vehicles, federal grants and other funds have been awarded to install more than 15,000 home charge stations.  The first buyers of the Volt will be eligible for one of 4,400 free 240-volt home charging stations.

What about the cost of electricity you ask?  At a cost of about 80 cents a day, a once-daily charge of the Volt is less expensive than purchasing a bottle of water and will consume less electric energy annually than the average home’s refrigerator or freezer units.  A Smartphone application will even allow you tell your car what time you need to leave the house in the morning, upload utility rates into the charger’s brain, and the vehicle will be charged during the lowest rate time!

While the Volt’s technology alone would be reason enough for some to buy, Chevy was determined for it also to deliver good looks, a whisper-quiet cabin, safety features and plenty of easy-to-use technologies.  The Volt features two seven-inch screens that display key information and house touch screen controls for infotainment, climate-control, driver efficiency and other key vehicle functions.  A reconfigurable, high-resolution, full-color cluster display replaces the speedometer and other traditional gauges.

2010 Chevrolet Camaros--Retro meets today!

I have to say, driving the 2010 Camaros has been thrilling, surprising and fun! From a pure looks stand point, I doubt there is any car in America that garners so much attention for the dollar. Everywhere I drove, people stared, remarked and gave the “thumbs up.”  Remember, we are starting at under $23,000 for a 304 hp V6 that goes zero to sixty in 6.7 seconds and gets 29 mpg highway/18 city. The handling was very good with very little body roll, and the engine had a nice growl to it. Don’t feel like you chickened out by not getting the V8, because this V6 has only 11 hp less than the V8 Mustang!  If you are looking for an eye catching, quick, comfortable, everyday drive, look no further than the Camaro LT, and for less than $2,000 add the RS package. Have fun!

Now lets talk about the monster “SS.” On my 6-speed manual test car, the growl rising up from the exhaust kept inviting me to “punch it” every time I got in the car. The voice in the back of my mind whispered, “Let’s do something fun,” every time I got behind the wheel.  I could see myself getting in trouble with this machine! The “SS” received a lot of attention on and off the road. Be ready to get lots of compliments and get into conversations with complete strangers about performance and price, and how jealous of it they are. Bottom line: It goes zero to sixty in 4.8 seconds, has Brembo brakes, stunning retro looks and is loaded with everything a modern sports car should have for about $34,000!

2010 Corvette Grand Sport is Chevrolet’s Ultimate Toy

Starting at about $56,000 the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport (formerly known as the Z51 package) is the American Ferrari.  It doesn’t play second fiddle to any sports car. In fact, I know two Italian friends who have imported these Vettes into their homeland in Italy where the Vette is considered an exotic that turns a lot of heads.

The facts are quite simple: This machine does zero to sixty in 3.8 seconds.  With the standard 430-hp LS3 V8, it tops out at about 190mph.  And with the upgraded exhaust, add 6 more hp.  All this, while it achieves 1.0 g on the skid pad.  Not a shabby comparison to the Italian Ferrari, right?  But compare the Corvette’s 26 mpg highway/16mpg city to a Ferrari with similar specs.   First there are no Ferraris capable of achieving 26mpg, and then there’s the fact that most Ferraris are at least three times the price.  On top of that, compare the reliability and repair costs of Chevrolet versus that of its Italian cousin.  If I’m paying, I’ll take the Vette any day!

Dodge & Chrysler Flex Their MUSCLE

2010 Dodge Challenger R/T –The Time Machine

For the real feel of yesteryear with today’s modern needs, nothing available comes as close as the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T. Dodge engineers have paid meticulous attention to the original look, colors, size and feel of this modern dinosaur. On first approach you do a double-take to be sure it is not a restored vintage classic. The fantasy continues as you slide into the leather trimmed bucket seat and take notice of the dash, shifter and steering wheel. Only when you turn this beast on do the electronics give it away, even though Dodge did a great job blending in the modern touches for minimal visual impact. On board is SIRIUS satellite with live traffic control, iPod control and a U-connect mini computer with voice/phone control, tire monitoring, temperature and compass. To go a step further, the stereo option on my test car had CD/DVD/HDD/NAV with 3GB-Watt amp, seven Boston Acoustics speakers with sub and a 30-Gigabyte hard drive capable of storing your music and even photos!

2010 Chrysler 300C SRT8-American Bentley

The 2010 version of the 300C SRT8 I tested had upgraded interior premium leather, genuine wood accents throughout, sleek satin aluminum and large, legible white gauges giving it a first class feel.  Special touches like LED lighting in the map pockets and cup holders also make night driving a surreal experience.

Lexus ES 350—Constantly Raising the Bar for Its Imitators

The ES 350 is Lexus’ best selling car for good reason. This year, Lexus has added a Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio system set and the optional Pre-Collision system that can help reduce damage in case of a crash.

Jaguar XF –Supercharged

Jaguar has always been known for high quality, prestigious and sexy cars, and the XF Supercharged is no exception. To me, it is in the same category as the Maserati Quatroportte in terms of performance, prestige and great looks– at about half the cost! This cat is equally suited to a male or female driver, perfect for any occasion and dressed for success with enough power under the hood to embarrass almost any car on the road.  In the old days we referred to these type of cars as “sleepers.” Unlike some of its competitors, there is little on the outside to give away the power lurking under the hood. I mean, we are talking a direct injected 5.0 liter V8 with 470 HP capable of hurling you from zero to sixty in 4.9 seconds and through the quarter mile in 13 seconds flat! If you want to be a real show off, the XFR is an even more powerful version.  This one is not so subtle looking, and with 510 HP is capable of 225.675 MPH top speed!  (This is not a misprint!  It was recently recorded as an average speed at Bonneville by a near-stock 2010 XFR).  Fortunately, the street version is electronically limited to an insane 155MPH.

Infiniti EX35 JOURNEY—Tops in Technology

What happens when you take a great luxury sport sedan and then raise the roof and pack it with all the bells and whistles the way only Infiniti can?  You get a crossover that is comfortable, luxurious and capable of transporting you in style anywhere!   Based on the very successful “G” class chassis, the EX35 JOURNEY is bound to please.

Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon – Shreds All Uncool Wagon Stereotypes

While wagons have always maintained their purpose and popularity in Europe, Americans have turned up their noses at them for years—until now.  Clark Griswald’s pea green wood package version in the movie “Family Vacation,” pretty much sums up the stereotype.  Even the previous attempts at a Caddy Wagon, like the 1970s “Castilian Fleetwood Estate Wagon” didn’t do much to break that mold.  Wagons were still reserved for uncool parents reduced to playing taxi driver for a herd of kiddos.  Perhaps it was the recent success of Cadillac-based trucks that inspired a second chance for the Cadillac Wagon.   Whatever the case, the Cadillac CTS Sports Wagon definitely shreds all negative stereotypes!  This luxurious, sporty wagon drives has the good looks, power and smoothness of the CTS sedan, but maintains  the utility of a wagon with 58 cubic feet of storage back there with the seats down, 25 up.

2010 LaCross Represents a Reinvigorated Buick

The great look, intelligent personal technologies and safety features of the completely redesigned 2010 Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan make it a shining example of the globally influenced product renaissance at Buick. Buick positions the LaCross against the Lexus ES models, but I find its size and solid feel and ride more comparable to larger luxury cars such as the Lexus LS.   This makes it an even better bargain at thousands below those comparable counterparts.  It offers all-wheel drive as well as three efficient, powerful engines—which were especially felt when accelerating on the highway.

Chevy Equinox--A Home Run for GM

When I opened the driver’s door of the Chevy Equinox, my first impression was WOW!  Black leather seats with red stitching, a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter and the impressive array of futuristic gauges made me feel like I was in a Porsche Cayenne. The comparison vehicles in this “crossover” segment are supposed to be Toyota RAV-4, Ford Escape, Honda CRV and Jeep Liberty, but I beg to differ. These vehicles are more like mini SUVs. If you only look at size and fuel economy, you might be able to understand the comparison, but the 2010 Equinox is a true crossover that’s handsome, comfortable, and economical with car-like characteristics that put it in a class of its own!

My first few days with the Equinox were rainy so I really was able to put this vehicle through its paces on slippery roads. The four wheel disc antilock brakes performed flawlessly and gave me great confidence as I drove in a variety of city traffic and open highway conditions. The Cadillac-like quietness of the cabin during thunderstorms was impressive. The sure-footed cornering ability combined with the responsive 6 speed 2.4 liter 4 cylinder DOHC engine provided that much needed trust required in these conditions. Some of the safety features include stability traction control, front-side-head curtain airbags with rollover protection and a rearview camera system which is integrated into the rearview mirror.

Bells and whistles on this vehicle are endless. My test car had many: 8-speaker amplified Pioneer Sound System with Sirius/XM satellite (with controls on the steering wheel), a USB port, OnStar with automatic crash response, Bluetooth,, on-board computer measuring of mpg, oil life and tire pressure, heated front seats and mirrors, rear parking assist, and get this–a power opening AND closing liftgate that can be operated from the driver’s seat! Navigation and dual rear seat DVD players are also available. Of course, it still had all the goodies like power windows, locks, mirrors, cruise, tilt & telescopic steering wheel, foglamps etc, etc, etc.
As far as utility, it has sliding 60/40 rear seat, numerous cupholders, power ports, and a compass; then you add available all-wheel drive. The Equinox is ready for anything from a night on the town to an off-road adventure. With a 600 mile highway driving range, you won’t have to stop for gas very often either!

General Motors has hit a home-run with this one. After driving the Equinox for a week and confirming its estimated 22 MPG city and 32 MPG highway, I really didn’t want to give it back. This is one crossover anyone will be proud to drive. It has the looks, the luxury and the sport that few vehicles have achieved, especially starting at only $23,185. You will not be disappointed!

GMC Terrain— Smaller and More Fuel-Efficient But Packing the Punch of GMC’s Full-Size Trucks

I found the look of the GMC Terrain to be bolder and more aggressive than it’s sibling the Chevrolet Equinox . The ride is smooth, quiet and fun to drive. My test car was powered by the optional direct injected 3.0L V6 DOHC engine which packed an impressive 264 horsepower. Even with the larger engine, the terrain still turned in some impressive mileage numbers: 17MPG City and 25 MPG Highway. The base price is about $2,000 more than the Equinox but includes options like the rearview back up camera and a number of other options which are included that easily justify the cost. Overall I believe GMC is going to sell a lot of these crossovers, and it will end up being an integral part of the new GM success story.

by Steve Smirnis

The Dodge Ram Outdoorsman Crew Cab 4 x 4 helped the line attain the coveted title.

Nearly 60 vehicles from all corners of the globe competed for the extremely competitive awards handed out by journalist members of the Texas Auto Writers Association during the 2010 Texas Truck Rodeo event.   Many capable vehicles achieved success on the treacherous off road course this year at San Antonio’s Knibbe Ranch.  Climbing steep grades and descending rocks can be a scary proposition for some.  But the days of fear and smacking your head against the side window as you hit dips and road ruts is over thanks to the technologically savvy engineered suspensions on the new trucks.  Chrysler RAM brand was awarded 4 top awards by the journalists and took the top prize for Truck of Texas.

The winners were:

Truck of Texas – Ram 1500

SUV of Texas – Jeep Grand Cherokee

CUV of Texas – Nissan Juke

Truck Line of Texas – Ford

Outstanding Feature – Ford /My Ford Touch

Full- Size SUV - Jeep Grand Cherokee 4×4

Mid-Size SUV- Jeep Wrangler Sahara 4×4

Compact SUV – Subaru Forester

Full-Size Luxury SUV – Cadillac Escalade Hybrid 4×4

Mid-Size Luxury SUV – Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid

Full-Size Luxury CUV – Lincoln MKT

Mid-Size Luxury CUV – Cadillac SRX Turbo

Compact CUV – Nissan Juke

Mid-Size CUV – Ford Edge Limited

Full-Size CUV – Chevrolet Traverse AWD

Full-Size Pickup Truck – Ram 1500 Outdoorsman Crew Cab 4×4

Mid-Size Pickup Truck – Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4×2 Texas Edition

Luxury Pickup Truck – Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn

Heavy Duty Pickup Truck- Ram 2500 Power Wagon Crew Cab 4×4

NOTABLE TRUCKS WE’VE ROAD TESTED FROM AMONG THE COMPETITORS:

The 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie Mega Cab with 6.7-Liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, capable of towing just about anything, is what sets this giant apart from any other pickup on the road.  To match all this power, it also has an almost intimidating aggressive-looking newly designed front end.  In driving it to several builder networking functions across the Metroplex, it was an attention-grabber.  Builders love big and powerful trucks, and this one fits the bill.  They wanted a look inside and asked lots of questions.  My test model was also loaded with options offering all the creature comforts of a luxury SUV—real time traffic navigation, a 30 GB hard drive media center with 4,250 song capacity, USB port and 506W Alpine sound system.  The U-connect phone system with voice command will keep your hands on the wheel.  You really need the back-up cameras and parking sensor options on this one. And unless you’re the size of my builder friend John Montgomery from Fort Worth, you’ll need side running boards to climb in.

If you do any off-roading and you’re not familiar with the 2011 Ford F-150 4X4 SVT RAPTOR , you’re missing out!  As one of the newest members of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), it was my first opportunity to experience this truly remarkable machine at the recent Texas Truck Rodeo and later on the roads here at home in DFW.  Whether on the off-road challenge in San Antonio or challenging traffic on the freeways here at home, something that looks as ferocious as the RAPTOR has certain benefits.  With its swollen flanks, carved-in headlights and taillights, aggressive stance, visibly rugged suspension pieces and mud graphics on your choice of Molten Orange, Tuxedo Black, Blue Flame or Oxford White paint, it definitely sends a message.

At this year’s Texas Truck Rodeo, the RAPTOR was somewhat of an elephant in the room as it was the super star among Ford’s F-150 line-up which has earned the prized “Truck of Texas” award from TAWA for two years in a row; the previous two year’s Truck of Texas awards went to the Ford F-250.  With nearly 60 vehicles from all corners of the globe competing for the extremely competitive title, it was definitely a benchmark against which all other 2011s were measured. While there are many capable vehicles that achieved success on the treacherous off road course this year at San Antonio’s Knibbe Ranch, the RAPTOR chewed it at high speed, gobbling up steep hills and rocks almost effortlessly. The confidence you get while driving this truck will inspire a whole new sport for people who thought they would never enjoy “off-roading.” Climbing steep grades and descending rocks can be a scary proposition for some.  But the days of fear and smacking your head against the side window as you hit dips and road ruts is over thanks to FORD’s incredibly engineered suspension and brutally powerful 6.2 liter 411 HP beast!

As promised, Ford followed up with a major power infusion with its 6.2-liter V-8. Once optional, this beefy, 411-hp engine is standard equipment for the 2011 RAPTOR. And the big truck gets bigger, and more versatile, with the availability of the four-door SuperCrew cab.  It remains an eye catcher on the lot—the perfect choice for one who is having a hard time deciding whether to buy a sports car or a heavy duty truck.  Its sleek looks continue on the inside with a subtle reptile pattern on its leather trim.  For a heavy duty off-road truck, its smooth ride continues to set a benchmark among its competitors.

In these days of doing it all yourself, if you find yourself needing something with more kick and more muscle than the Ford F-150, there are a number of reasons for  popularity among Ford’s F-250 Super Duty niche segment. Chief among them is the fact that the F-250s can handle massive payloads while also being easy to drive and comfortable to ride in. Ford has typically offered a mind-boggling variety of body styles (regular cab, extended cab, crew cab), powertrain options and trim levels to choose from. This wealth of options allows everyone from small business owners to career ranchers to find an F-250 Super Duty that suits their needs. Recent improvements have yielded a stronger turbodiesel V8, even better ride and handling dynamics and a redesigned cabin with higher-quality materials.

The King Ranch is the grandaddy of them all!

I also had the opportunity to drive the ultimate beast.  The monster Ford F-450 is only available as a crew cab with a long 8-foot bed, dual rear wheels, four-wheel drive and a brawny 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 that makes 400 horsepower and a whopping 800 lb-ft of torque. The F-450 also features a wider-track monobeam front suspension and bigger disc brakes to contend with higher load-bearing capabilities. Properly equipped, the F-450 Super Duty can tow up to 16,000 pounds with a conventional trailer setup. When configured for fifth-wheel towing, that figure jumps to a class-leading 24,400 pounds. Maximum payload capacity tops out at 4,920 pounds.

Buyers may choose among four trim levels: the base XL, XLT, Lariat and King Ranch.  The XL is the workhorse of the stable, with standard equipment that includes 17-inch forged aluminum wheels, a black grille and bumpers, running boards, roof clearance lights, manual-telescoping trailer tow mirrors, air-conditioning, vinyl upholstery and floor coverings, a 40/20/40-split front bench, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a two-speaker AM/FM radio.  Stepping up to the XLT will add a chrome grille and bumpers, heated outside mirrors, cruise control, full power accessories, keyless entry, an integrated trailer brake controller, a carpeted floor, cloth seats, lockable second-row underseat storage with a power point and a four-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player and auxiliary audio jack.  The Lariat trim level adds foglights, power-telescoping mirrors, rear parking sensors, 18-inch wheels, a power rear sliding window, chrome tubular step bars, dual-zone automatic climate control and upgraded interior upholstery. Also standard on the Lariat is a 4.2-inch LCD multifunction screen, wood-grain trim, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable pedals, leather seats, a middle front seat that converts into a center console, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, the Ford Sync voice activation system and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite radio.

We were fortunate enough to drive the granddaddy of them—the King Ranch, which piles on power-folding mirrors, two-tone paint, a body-colored grille with chrome insert, unique exterior and interior badging, remote start, upgraded Chapparal leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, driver seat memory and a rearview camera.

It was fun to observe people staring everywhere I pulled up beside them.  I had them fooled in thinking I was a wealthy Texas cattle baron instead of just a hard-working Greek from Canada!