This year, the technological and automotive worlds have collided more than ever, resulting in a selection of 2011 cars with abundant amenities. From wireless routers to HD radio, these cars are fully loaded and are a dream to drive. Take a look at Wayne Cunningham’s list below, as the senior editor of CNET’s Car Tech channel makes his nominations* for the most memorable new cars of the year (product choices by Wayne, summaries compiled by MMNPL staff).
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With its magnetic exterior and equally elegant interior, this mid-sized luxury sedan by Infiniti offers drivers a smooth, yet invigorating, driving experience. The 2011 Infiniti M56, which hit showrooms in March, 2010, features a signature engine and Blind Spot Intervention System, making your ride both safe and powerful. With Bluetooth technology, USB connection, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, Bose audio and Zagat restaurant guide, this new Infiniti is a driver’s dream.
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Fiesta gets the most out of every corner, thanks to the technical precision of its finely tuned suspension. Covert aerodynamic design and critical technology such as the class-exclusive PowerShift six-speed automatic and 1.6L Ti-VCT Duratec® I4 engine give it a responsive and fuel-responsible driving experience. The Fiesta Movement previewed the US version in ’09 and sales started in summer, 2010. Features such as front heated leather-trimmed seats, SYNC® in-car connectivity system and Intelligent Access with push-button start reinforce that Fiesta is a choice, not a compromise.
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With a sleek design and an elegant, wood and leather interior, the 2011 Audi A8 puts your office on wheels, starting Fall, 2010. This luxury car seamlessly integrates technology, with iPod integration, Bluetooth and HD radio, plus Audi’s exclusive drive select, allowing drivers to personalize vehicle drive characteristics. If the car’s sleek design isn’t enough, the Audi A8 is equipped with a powerful engine, going from 0-60 in just 5.7 seconds.
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The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a sleek, modern styling that aims to make every driving moment grand. Premium craftsmanship is the car’s hallmark with soft, leather seats and leading edge technology. The Uconnect system puts the driver in control, with navigation, FLO TV, phone control, SIRIUS Radio and an in-car wireless router. The model hits showrooms in September 2010.
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The 2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid is proof that efficient design does not have to come at the expense of beauty. The first 6-speed production hybrid offers a fun, yet functional, design with perks such as Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation, Bluetooth, driver-centric controls and a USB audio interface. Powered by a 1.5 liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, the 2011 Honda CR-Z offers spirited performance rarely seen in hybrids, as well as impressive fuel-economy. Sales start late 2010.
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The 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman offers more power and a different driving experience as the biggest and most rugged of the Mini family. The first five-passenger Mini, the Countryman offers a spacious, yet sleek interior design. Slated to hit U.S. shores in January of 2011, this larger Mini does not disappoint.
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*Not all products chosen by the MMNPL expert panelists are guaranteed to be included in the MMNPL survey due to our rigorous criteria for selecting new products.
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