These extended road tests also give us an opportunity to see how similar vehicles driven over the same roads burn fuel. True, six different drivers may have different throttle habits, but after rotating through the cars every half-hour or so, that difference averages out across every vehicle, so that our combined fuel economy figures (which ranged between 16 and 20 mpg) actually become relevant to real-world use. Over the course of three cays, we put more than a thousand miles on each car, and pumped hundreds of gallons of gasoline in pursuit of real-world data.
At the end of each day, the staff assembled at one of the Boulder's eateries to discuss the high and low points of each vehicle over martinis, dinner, and delightful desserts. Afterwards, we worked out road-caused muscle kinks with a late-night soak in the hot tub. Yep, these were long days, but worth every minute of it.
Peruse the photos on these two pages to enjoy some behind-the-scenes highlights, or click to read Art. St. Antoine's detailed "Class Action" road test, from the September issue of Motor Trend Magazine.
Which of these premium automobiles do you most aspire to own? Share your opinion in our related "Class Action" poll.
Remember to click on the images to see enlargements.
With dramatic rock formations like this, it is easy to see how The Boulders Resort came to have its name. Those who want to commune with nature will enjoy walking, hiking, jogging, and biking the many trails through the complex. Others might want to request a golf cart.
Nestled into the hillside, each little casita offers both luxury and seclusion. (Photo courtesy of The Boulders)
Nearly every casita had a bird's nest secreted in their stairway. This little dove remained quite calm, guarding her nest while resort guests stomped up and down the stairs.
A variety of wildlife could be observed around The Boulders, including an abundance of bunnies and Gambel's Quail peeking out from the bushes.
The Boulders features two award-winning 18-hole championship golf courses...alas, this is as close as we got to the greens; we walked across them on our way to breakfast each morning.
The Golden Door Spa offers an assortment of treatments, including The Boulders trademark "Turquoise Wrap," meditative garden, and tranquil labyrinth. (Photo courtesy of The Boulders)