Advice: 2010 Mother Proof Awards

We’re not ashamed to admit that we have our favorites here at MotherProof.com. No, we’re not talking about our kids; we’re talking about our favorite cars. We’ve tested tons of cars over the past year, and there are a few standouts that deserve our praise. With that, we present the 2010 Mother Proof/Spoof Awards. This year, we’ve added the 2010 Mother of All Cars award to our lineup. It’s our favorite family car from our list of award-winners.

We know that families come in all shapes and sizes and that each family uses their car differently. From minivans to sedans to hybrids, there’s a Mother Proof Award-winning car that will fit your family.

Minivan: 2010 Mercedes-Benz R350 Bluetec
Mama says: OK, it’s not officially a minivan, but the R350 diesel crossover is a luxurious, clean-burning family-mobile that will turn heads. Did we mention its four sets of Latch connectors as well as its massive dual sunroofs?

News & Rants: Detroit Auto Show: Volvo C30 Electric Concept

At the 2010 Detroit auto show, Volvo introduced a C30 electric concept car. The gas-powered C30 is a car that many of my MotherProof.com colleagues have raved about; in fact, our Chief Mama Kristin Varela owns one. While the exterior hasn’t changed on the electric model, the interior receives some small adjustments to accommodate the concept’s lithium-ion batteries.

News & Rants: Detroit Auto Show: 2011 Lincoln MKX

With the entrance of the 2011 Lincoln MKX onto the Detroit auto show stage, the face of Lincoln is undeniable, with all models showing off similar, shiny grilles. Modifications to the MKX’s rear set it apart from its predecessor, resulting in a balanced face-lift as a whole.

Beyond the cool lights, fab grille and glittering paint finish, the five-seater’s interior is a standout. As the first Lincoln to showcase MyLincoln Touch — Lincoln’s version of the MyFord Touch interactive controls — the MKX was pulling people in — literally.
During the media preview, journalists stood in line at all four doors, eagerly waiting for their first glimpse of this new method of constant connectivity and easy-to-use touch-screen surfaces. Even the stereo system’s volume and air-conditioning vents are controlled by whisking your finger across a smooth surface. No knobs, no dials.

Drivers can use voice commands, five-way button controls (similar to cell phones and iPods) or the touch surfaces to make hands-free phone calls, change the temperature or track vehicle maintenance needs. The amount of technology is a bit overwhelming, but it’s also exciting.

With the MKX, it seems we’re at that place where consumers’ wants and needs are being met. I look forward to test driving the MKX — with some help from my two backseat drivers.

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News & Rants: Detroit Auto Show: 2011 Lincoln MKX