1996 Audi A4

'96 Audi A4 QuattroThe classy, pearl-white long-term Audi A4 has been highly sought after by our corporate demigods, who appreciate its sophisticated interior and exterior styling. It has proved to be a great urban commuter for navigating the traffic-choked L.A. streets with its modest size, five-speed automatic transmission, and stellar stereo. The audio and climate controls, however, have confused some first-time drivers with their similarity. One wrote, "The HVAC controls are too complicated. Even after several days in the car, I found myself stabbing at any button I could to affect some change." The cupholders have been another common topic for logbook entries; several drivers noted that they seem like an afterthought. We continue to find plenty to rave about, such as the one-touch open/close moonroof, grin-inducing handling, and tight construction. The scheduled 7500-mile service was conducted for $74. While in the dealership, a small exterior trim piece that had fallen off was replaced under warranty.

'96 Chevrolet TahoeBetween cargo hauling, trailering, camping, and commuting, the Chevrolet Tahoe hasn't had an idle minute since it joined our fleet. The logbook is overflowing with praise for the 5.7-liter/250-horsepower Vortec V-8 engine, which recently pulled a two-ton boat through nearby hills without strain; however, the large truck catches crosswinds at highway speeds, particularly when towing, which can cause it to shudder. Around town, the mighty Vortec engine gives the mammoth sport/utility surprisingly swift acceleration. This impressive power comes at the penalty of fuel economy, which has risen slightly since the last update, to 13.5 mpg. On an off-road camping expedition to the Grand Canyon, the 4x4 Tahoe proved to be very capable in the dirt and sand, with several amenities proving beneficial such as the skip-free CD player, rear-view-mirror-mounted compass, and the ability to shut the dome lights off when the doors are open, helpful when camping 50 miles from the nearest jump start. Once back home, the Tahoe was treated to an $82.92 oil and fluid change, filter replacement, and tire rotation.