A Technology Assessment By Matthew Michaels Moore, Beverly Lu

Whether it was flying cars or jetpacks, we were all promised a compelling vision of the future at some point in our childhoods. And, although it may seem like science fiction, autonomous vehicles — cars that drive themselves — are more than just a promise; they are a growing reality. The widespread coverage in October 2010 of Google’s fleet of Toyota Prii that continue to navigate the highways of California was a clear message to the world that this technology is fact, not fiction. Questions remain, however, as to whether or not the world and the marketplace are ready for this technology. To explore this topic, we conducted an assessment of the current status of autonomous vehicle technologies in the U.S to the best of our own extent. We focused mainly on those technologies that are applicable to modern cars driven on existing, unmodified public roads. Our geographical focus was mainly on the west coast of the United States where a hotbed of activity regarding this technology is located.

This is the all-new Toyota Yaris, unveiled in pictures for the first time. Toyota says that it's the first car to bring "affordable multimedia connectivity" to the supermini segment. As you'd expect, Toyota is claiming systematic improvements over the current Yaris, including more interior space, lower fuel consumption and better quality. But the most striking thing is the infotainment system. Toyota reckons that 95 percent of new models will feature a full colour touch screen infotainment screen. A colour multimedia interface isn't new in the supermini sector - which includes the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo - but for such a huge majority of models to come with it as standard is unprecedented. Both the interior and exterior follow the corporate styling lead of the current Prius, Urban Cruiser and Verso-S, so there's nothing overly exciting about the newcomer. However, it already appears to offer more space than the outgoing car. There will initially be three engines available: 1.0-litre and 1.33-litre VVTi petrol units, and a 1.4-litre diesel. No power outputs have been given, but in the current Yaris they produce 68-, 100- and 89bhp respectively.

Myk Belmonte as he gives you a suggestion. Ok, so you would be criticizing me for featuring a second luxury SUV during the time when the kids troop back to school. Two years ago, we reviewed the E53 X5 in which people can choose between that or a brand new Montero Sport if given a chance (the results when I asked some people they'll go for a brand new Montero). While the used car world gives you lots of opportunities to drive those creatures without costing your image, there is a part of you which shouts maintenance costs without giving up your kids college funds. Replacing the W163 M Class that was heavily criticized for its dubious quality is the W164 that was first made available in April 2005 as a 2006 model. Everything in the vehicle was totally new including the 7G-Tronic transmission, active curve illuminating lights, and more dimensions translating to more interior space.

For the first time, AMG and hybrid engines debuted in this generation to provide consumers more options. Locally, the W163 was launched by CATS Motors in December 2005 as a 2006 model alongside the W221 S Class and W245 B Class. Despite being an old model than the GLK, resale values of the M are identical to its small brother but then, the former has a cheaper price tag to begin with. As the drill, going with a pre-owned unit is the order of the day. With this SUV packing tons of gadgetry inside, checking them one by one if they function well is a must. Also, maintenance costs between its European rivals are at par except for the LR which costs slightly more. Outside, the design just commands your attention with being overly styled that most competitors commit. The shape that is sculpted has better lines and a raked windshield that aids aerodynamics.

AMG Sport models have the requisite AMG body kit with rear spoiler and 21 inch rims (as opposed to the 20 ones in the lower models). Sad news for people who like placing their relatives at the back row: no more standard third row seat unlike the previous model, it has been relegated to the larger GL Class. Anyways, space inside the cabin is excellent and you'll love the comfortable aura provided by it. The interior is crammed with lots of toys including a button for the sunroof plus tons of hidden storage spaces (including the CD slot behind the COMAND screen). The biggest disadvantage is the shifter situated behind the steering wheel that is small (which you may mistaken it for a cruise control) and the cardinal rules: up to reverse, down to accelerate, and the middle is reserved for neutral. Neither engine options that we will mention would disappoint you, so weigh in your requirements between the two. The sole gasoline option is the E35 3,498cc V6 having 272hp at 6,500rpm and 350Nm at 2,800-4,800rpm which provides you a smooth power delivery. On the other hand, picking the OM642 2,987 diesel with 224hp at 3,800rpm and 500Nm that is accessible at 1,600rpm which you will love for its available power and efficiency afforded by it. Not anymore the agricultural tractor of the past, it now behaves as an E Class sedan which is a good thing. While we mention about the smooth power bandwith, its power steering is speed sensitive which means it is easily adapted. Apart from the smooth engine and transmission, all you have to do is to drive. There is nothing wrong with having a luxury SUV to school, unless you are receiving death threats in between. But if you are in the market for one (and you budget really dictates it), there is nothing wrong with the M Class, since this is a more improved model than the rushed replacement.