keoni

True, but these new elements are showing up at the same time, specifically the tablet looking screen. I find it odd that three manufactures released this element within a year of each other.

Upon attending a recent auto show and looking at new upcoming products, I've noticed certain similar design trends in multiple manufactures. The one that stands out the most is the "phablet/tablet" type nav/info screen. I first experienced it in the new 3-Series but have seen it appear in Mazda and Audi as well. It's almost as if designers thought, lets jump on the tablet craze and permanently dock a flat screen on top of the dash. The other element I've been seeing is an evolution of circular vents. Moving from Ford type (in which the vents can be closed making a flat surface) I'm seeing articulated concentric rings within each other. Surprisingly they felt great in Mercedes and Audi. Was the latest XJ the first to use these? Guess I'm wondering why these similar designs are popping up across multiple manufactures at the same time. Did some door to door salesman land all the German luxury makes in one felt swoop? Is there some sort of convention in which all the latest ideas are presented by third parties and the manufactures jump on it?

Looks great but I don't understand the gray plastic expanse on the car's rear in the license plate area. It looks awful on the white car. I'm looking to get an MKZ in about a year and I have no doubt in my head but to get it in Smoked Quartz.

Ummm, it just my foot after all. However, I really hope that the Fusion has a 2.0 Eco + manual. I'd be all over that.

I guess the gears are the reason, I feel like I have to feather the clutch a lot. That or I need to stop releasing my foot so fast.

Good question. I have a manual 2012 Focus hatch... I think it is incredibly clunky. I previously owned a Mazda3 5 speed and felt that it was very smooth in the shifts. After driving this one, I just might get an auto next go around. Mostly because I want to get a Fusion

The Quest might be the worst...

Thanks for the pics! So now you're ok with the CD slot being on top of the dash? I recall some grumbling previously...

Borg use to own a catfish Taurus from what I recall. He isn't scared of it.

What's the deal with the center ridge not lining up with the front cinch? Bad Photoshop or is my iPad playing tricks on me?

It looks like a Mitsubishi... I'm hoping the cowl won't be overly long and low.

Don't get me wrong, I love the car. I just really wanted Sync. However, the plusses outweigh the minuses. Also, it's more of an errand car vs. full on commuter. I'll survive with the 3.5 audio jack...that's placed in a bad spot.

Dang. It was the only one they had on the lot. Zero Fiestas. I really needed a car so I snapped it up and the dealer trades were too extravagant. I'm going to have it re-upholstered though. I prefer leather.

I just bought a 2012 Focus and need accessories. The car is an SE hatchback base Sonic Blue. Can I add Sync or cruise control? My salesperson was great but lacked knowledge. Any ideas? Oh, and the car is a blast to drive!!

Would you call a first gen CR-V a SUV?