About: Autolove

Joe Mavilia is a syndicated columnist with more than 35 years in the automotive industry. He is a member of the Motor Press Guild and Automotive Press Association. His reviews have been published in print media including the Los Angeles Times, The Golden Transcript - Colorado, La Feria News - Texas, The Pasadena Weekly - California, and others around the country, including www.theweekenddrive.com where he is the West Coast Editor. Reviews and Opinion Columns may also be seen in Sunnews.org and The Country Journal every week in the Antelope Valley, CA. I hope they are helpful

Recent Posts by Autolove

2016 Volvo V60 Station Wagon AWD T5 (1166)

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2016 Volvo V60 Station Wagon AWD T5 (1166)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Volvo V60 Station Wagon. Right off the bat….. 5 reasons for buying a V60:

1.) Turbocharged 5-cylinder engine
2.) All wheel drive traction
3.) Great features
4.) Family / luxury combo.
5.) It’s a Volvo.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwAfGJS1QOs]

General Information: It is assembled in Gothenburg, Sweden; Parts U.S./Canadian 1%, Sweden 43%, Germany17%, Engine – Sweden and Transmission – Japan. Classification is Small Station Wagon. Cars from Volvo: XC90, XC70, XC60, S60, S80, S90, V60, V90

Handling & Performance:

This V60 delivers a solid ride all around. Some may be put off by the stiff steering but on the other hand it gives road feel and feedback that will be appreciated by many. The 5-cylinder turbocharged 250 HP engine may encourage a heavy foot on the pedal for it’s exhilarating acceleration. But that will cost in fuel consumption of course which isn’t bad at 20-28 mpg for those who use the turbo sparingly. BUT, it is fantastic to have the power when you need that burst of speed and acceleration.

0-60 mph is in the mid-5 second range.

Instant Traction AWD is a system that allows all drive wheels to be locked for maximum traction from the moment you start the engine. Under normal driving conditions 95% of the drive power goes to the front wheels and 5% to the rear wheels. This traction feature splits the power more evenly for best traction.

Styling:

Classic Volvo styling from Swedish designers who also build in great safety features. They have designed and marketed to give the perception that it is safer than other cars. I don’t know about that but it feels that way too.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Some may see the price as expensive while others will see it as an investment because of the perception of the consumer generally that this car will be around for a long time.

Conveniences and comfort:

The features list below is impressively good, even though in this price segment of the market such technology is somewhat expected.

Consumer Recommendation:

I’ve always had good experience with Volvo cars which goes back longer than I care to admit… but for the more than a decade that I was in the auto repair business it is important to note that those cars you don’t see much is more telling than those you do see a lot. Volvo is one of those cars we didn’t see all that often. Those we did see all the time include, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Fiat, Jaguar to name but a few of the constant ‘offenders’ to the wallet.film The Lost City of Z 2017 streaming

Recognized Competition:

Volvo V60 Wagon $41,000, BMW 3 Series $44,000, Audi A3 Sportback e-tron $39,000, Audi Allroad $46,000, Subaru Outback $32,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, solid ride, very good array of features, Platinum package adds about $3,700 that includes a host of features I particularly care a lot for.

Bad News:

Upper end of the Budget for most.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 250 hp turbo-charged 5-cylinder engine, ultra low emission vehicle, 6-speed auto trans, all wheel drive with instant traction, stability control, hill descent control, traction control through torque vectoring, power assisted rack and pinion steering, electronic brake distribution, 18” alloy wheels, navigation with 7” color LCD monitor, 160 watt audio system with 8-speakers, in dash single CD with WMA and MP3, HD radio, USB & Auxilary inputs, Bluetooth hands free with audio streaming, Sirius radio and Sensus Connect and Volvo On-Call (6 mos. Complimentary), in-car WiFi Hotspot, smart phone apps for engine remote start, collision avoidance system, front airbage, side curtain and side impact protection system, driver and front passenger dual chamber side impact airbags, whiplash protection system, security system with back-up batteryt for siren, rear cargo cover, child safety locks/ rear doors, tire pressure monitor, rear park assist, 8-way power driver seat with memory, power passenger seat, electronic ignition with push button start & stop, leather & silk metal steering wheel, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, electronic parking brake, dual zone climate control, heated power mirrors, 40/20/40 flat folding seats, power foldable rear seat headrests, rain sensing wipers, power retractable exterior mirrors.

Gas Stats:

$2.69 Gal avg. November 5, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $41,000.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@autolove.com
Copyright © 2014 – An Automotive Love Affair.

2017 Hyundai Santa Fe LTD ULT FWD (1165)

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2017 Hyundai Santa Fe LTD ULT FWD (1165)

Overview:

This is the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe LTD ULT (for Ultimate) FWD. Who makes up these designations? ULT – oh well. Whatever! As the kids say.

Hyundai is one of my favorite “Cars for the Masses”. They came on the scene as affordable well made cars with a great warranty. If nothing else, it has been Great Marketing for sure. And incidentally Hyundai cars come to us from a very nice company.

I’ve always been a proponent of Cars that come to us from Japan and South Korea, because the world at war that divided our countries also was the reason for joining together to heal. One would have thought the wounds of war would have persisted and festered. But it didn’t happen that way. The times were turbulent but as both countries emerged from war torn conditions they embraced American Capitalism. And whether forced through the occupation or willingly, both flourished economically as was so desperately needed as they rebuilt from the devastation that war brings. Surely from an economic point of view Capitalism has been, hands down, far superior than the autocratic rule before the wars. Capitalism continues to enhance the quality of life for any country willing to incorporate such principles into their culture. We all have choices, eh.

Another observation is how cars start out small and morph into ever larger versions of themselves. Kinda like people do over time. But as gas prices begin to rise (which prices tend to do) vehicle size shrinks again. Since prices hover around $2.50 to 4.00 a gallon in the US, cars in the largest markets like the US tend to get larger in recent years. Consider world prices for gas are currently $7.22 a gallon with prices in oil rich countries are as low as $.57 per gallon while US prices average $2.51 per gallon.

General Information: It is assembled in Ulsan, Korea; Parts – US/Canadian 2%, Korea 90%; Engine & Transmission – Korea; Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Coupe, Elantra GT, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, Tucson and Veloster.

Note:  although the literature notes it is a ‘Small SUV’ I disagree. 6 or 7 seats isn’t small to me. All in this review are 6 or 7 seat standard size SUVs. I’m thinking the literature has to be wrong or a mistake.

Handling & Performance:

Being a ‘full-size’ SUV (in my judgement) this Santa Fe is a great highway car. It performed well on our journey to the San Diego area of Southern California. I found it comfortable and stress free because of ‘smart cruise control’ and ‘blind spot detection’. It made the journey far better than lesser equipped automobiles.

Fuel economy in class are all within 1-2 mpg of each other and for the size and seating that is in the range of 20-24 mpg average combined.

Styling:

Delightful designs on all models of Hyundai cars.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

If ‘loaded’ with features as this test vehicle was, the cost is not cheap as you’d expect. It was also beautiful and as ULTimately equipped the cost is nearly $43,000. Base price, however, is very affordable $30,000.

Conveniences and comfort:

I’m very bullish on the current technology that adds more than any other features developed over the past 100 years. The array of great features has blossomed in recent years. The additions are wonderful and continue to get better every year. Smart Cruise (with stop/start), Lane Departure, Blind Spot Detection and the like are a must for my car buying dollar. I’d rather not have a moon roof and put the money into Stability control and all of those features noted above.

Smart cruise has a, not so common, stop / start feature that allows the car to come to a complete stop (say on freeway travel) and start again when traffic resumes moving. Very cool.

Consumer Recommendations:

Include Hyundai and Kia (sister company of Hyundai) in every car buying decision you make where they have product offerings. You won’t be disappointed.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Santa Fe $40,000, Nissan Murano $40,000, Buick Enclave $49,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $40,000, Chevrolet Traverse $43,000, Kia Sorento $41,000, Dodge Durango $44,000, GMC Acadia $45,000.

Good News:

Cost efficient Luxury, great comfort and safety features.

Bad News:

n/a

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter 290 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, stability management and traction controls, front, front side and side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, tire pressure monitor, 19” alloy wheels, auto headlights, heated power mirrors with turn indicators, panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, 8-inch tourh screen, Nagigation with Android auto, multi view camera system, hands free smart liftgate with auto open, proximity key with push button start, rear side window sunshades,  heated and ventillated front seats, heated steering wheel and rear seats, leather seating surfaces steering wheel and shift knob, 6-passenger seating with captain chairs, 50/50 split third row seats, dual climate control with clean air ionizer, rear vents,integrated memory system for driver seat, third row USB outlet, Bluetooth, power adjustable driver and passenger seat, AM/FM/HD radio, Sirius XM/ CD/MP3 Overhead logic surround sound, Hyundai Blue Link Connected Car system, compass, 115 volt power outlet, smart cruise contol with stop/start, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, electronic parking brake, high beam assist.

Gas Stats:

$2.69/ Gal avg. October 31, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

17 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $42,545.

2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Manual Transmission (1164)

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2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Manual Transmission (1164)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Manual Transmission two seater sport car. Yes – an automatic transmission is an option. Over the years that I have driven the Miata it has matured but so has the cost. In early years it was rather ‘tiny’ sounding but even though it is still a ‘light weight’ small two seater, it has many of the safety features once only found on much more expensive sport cars.

And beyond the technology built in and it has matured from that standpoint, it is still a small car that simply can’t and shouldn’t be able to provide bigger car space and features. Some of the competition that is in the same price range – The Subaru BRZ and the Scion FR-S both seat 4 -and thus have more room generally.

General Information: It is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 95%   Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Two Seater. Cars from Mazda: CX 3, CX 5, CX 9, Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mazda 6, MX-5 Miata.

Styling:

Classic Miata that has been updated to meet or go head to head with higher priced cars in this segment.

Fit and Finish:

No complaints.

Cost:

Very competitive among all of those listed here. But when considering alternatives like the Audi and the Nissan they are far more sophisticated and substantial albeit similar in size.

Conveniences and comfort:

For a small two seater sport car it has an impressive number of features that make your drive more comfortable. On the other hand, there is very limited space but I’m sure if you’re in the market for a sport car, you don’t expect larger car space conveniences.

Sport car enthusiasts will also appreciate a manual transmission. But for the ladies there is an option for a 6-speed automatic transmission. Typically female drivers, in my experience, don’t like man-ual transmissions. In fact, both men and women under 40 may never have driven a car so equipped. As I recall the DMV driving test required applicants to take the test in a manually shifted car.

Finally, I’m guessing most older drivers (men or women) aren’t terribly interested in the inconvenience of getting in and out of cars this low to the ground.

Consumer Recommendations:

If you are young, or simply young at heart, no matter the age, and you have a yearning to drive a sport car you will enjoy the ride.

Some of the most memorable times of my life include my wife and I traveling to Lake Tahoe in a Miata for the week. I rather like traveling light. Really light – by necessity in this case. The trunk is very small and there IS no back seat. One way around the space problem is a rack on the trunk lid to put extra luggage.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda MX-5 Miata $30,000, Audi TT Roadster $47,000, MINI Roadster $27,000, Nissan 370Z Roadster $46,000, BMW Z-4 $51,000, Subaru BRZ $28,000, Scion FR-S $26,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, very good handling, fun , fun, fun to drive.

Bad News:

Limited use, low profile discomfort.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 165 hp 4-cylinder engine, Skyactive MT 6-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brake system, rear wheel drive, 17” alloy wheels, manual folding black cloth convertible top with liner, auto LED headlights, 2-passenger seating, power windows and locks, keyless entry and push button start, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio/ cruise/ Bluetooth controls, leather shift knob and brake handle, 5 year 60,000 mile warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance, anti-theft alarm, blind sport and rear cross traffic alert and lane departure warning system, tire pressure monitor, electric power assist steering, power heated side mirrors, rain sensing wipers, glass rear window with defogger, Bose am/FM/cd 9-speader HD audio, Sirius XM satellite radio, Navigation system, 7” color touch screen, Bluetooth hands free phone/audio, cruise control, trip computer, tire pressure monitor, climate control, heated leather seats, stability control, traction control, hill launch assist, front, front side air bags.

Gas Stats:

$2.65/ Gal avg. October 22, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

27 City and 34 Highway MPG

Combined MPG

Mazda MX-5 Miata – 30 combined mpg, Mitsubishi Lancer – 25 combined mpg, Ford Focus – 25 mpg, Kia Forte 5 24 combined mpg, Prius Hybrid -52 combined mpg (electric), Nissan LEAF – 114 combined mpg (electric), VW Golf – 28 combined mpg.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,545.

2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV ES (1163)

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2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV ES (1163)

Overview:

This is the 2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV ES. Well – I have to tell you I’m not a fan of electric only vehicles. BUT – we cannot forget everything has a use. OK, so Politicians may be the exception.

Anyway, my point is that you must consider the what the right ‘tool’ is for the job you have. Let me be perfectly clear (sorry, I’m beginning to talk like a politician), you may be perfectly happy with this new technology vehicle.

Me – I live 50 miles from my office. (no wise cracks). The range on this EV is 60 miles… and takes 8-12 hours to recharge to a full charge. I like my job but I don’t intend on working 12 hours while my car gets recharged to get me home. Result of this is that I had to drive my internal combustion engine vehicle to get to work. Then if I have side trips to make during the work day I’m able to use my all electric vehicle as long as I’m not traveling more than 20 miles one way.

The real problem (for me) is the anxiety I feel when I venture out. Even if there were recharge stations for a fast charge it will always be at least an hour or more to get me back on the road. I don’t know about you but I don’t want to spend all my time planning how I get from charge to charge.

Let me be even more clear – it isn’t Mitsubishi’s error in providing cars to the public, it is the politically correct pressure for car companies to manufacture such modes of transportation. After all, you say, Tesla makes versions that cost $150,000 so it must be a good technology. Our company has a Tesla and the problems are only multiplied by the cost of the Tesla that is 7 times more than this Mitsubishi.

Well a little more clarification is that more than 100 years ago electric vehicles had a range of 100 miles. Granted they only traveled 20 mph but we have made precious little improvement. What does that say about the technology? Just say’n.

General Information: It is assembled in Kurishiki, Japan Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 100%; Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is SubCompact Cars. Cars from Mitsubishi: iMiEV, Lancer, Lancer Evolution, Mirage, Mirage G4, Outlander and Outlander Sport.

Handling & Performance:

Electric power is immediate power and it performs well around town or very short trips on the highway. Literature indicates that the annual cost of operation is $600 for this EV. That is somewhat less than the annual cost of a compact gas powered car.

Styling:

Unique styling. Remember the first VW Beetles in the 1960s? Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Cost:

Considering the size and constant need to recharge the cost is not very competitive with other options.

Conveniences and comfort:

This EV car does have several convenience features. However most, if not all, take energy and thus you must consider if the feature is important enough to shorten the range you can travel. So on a hot day I may be pressured to open the windows and not turn on the Air Conditioning. Lights, Radio etc. That fact defeats the usefulness of the ‘tool’ I’ve decided to buy / support.

Consumer Recommendations:

The real consideration is what you intend to use the vehicle for. You must also consider that you will be using electricity and there IS a cost comparable to a conventional gas powered car. You must also consider the continuous need to recharge once or more times per day, and you will never go long without thinking about where and how you will get your next ‘fix’ if I can use the analogy akin to having a drug addiction.

Among battery / electric cars on sale in the U.S., only three vehicles have sold more than 10,000 copies since 2010:  Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model S, and BMW i3.

Recognized Competition:

Mitsubishi i-MiEV $24,000, Chevrolet Spark $26,000, Nissan LEAF $30,000. Tesla S $67,000

Others without sufficient data available: 2017 Chevy Bolt, Honda FCV, Hyundai ionig, BMW i3.

Good News:

All electric – no gas required

Bad News:

All electric – no gas possible. . . except indigestion.

Gas Stats:

$2.59 Gal avg. October 16, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

121 City and 102 Highway – Average is 30 KW hours per 100 miles.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,995.

2016 Mazda-3 grand touring 5-door sedan (1162)

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2016 Mazda-3 grand touring 5-door sedan (1162)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Mazda-3 grand touring 5-door sedan. It is obvious that all cars stand on their own as to how well they perform in ‘class’ or ‘type’. This is a midsize affordable family 5-door sedan that is among my top three in class.

The test vehicle sported a manual transmission and that rules out many buyers if an automatic were not available. That is true especially for younger drivers who have probably never driven a manual transmission. Back 30 or 40 years ago the manual transmission was referred to as a “Standard” transmission. Auto was an option. Well the tables have turned in favor of Automatic.

The reason you see so few cars with manual transmissions these days, simply put, is that the consumer opts for automatic in most cases. But mostly it is because automatics have become so good that there is less reason for a manual shift transmission.

Older drivers will remember how cluggie automatic transmissions were in the early days. History buffs may also remember Oldsmobile’s Hydromatic, or Chevrolet’s Powerglide, or Packard’s Ultramatic or Buick’s Dynaflow? Those are just a few of the early versions of the Automatic transmission. That is why Manual transmissions were and continue to be referred to as “Standard” as it was in those early day designs. Automatic was an option.

General Information: It is assembled in Hofu, Japan; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 95%   Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Midsize. Cars from Mazda: CX 3, CX 5, CX 9, Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mazda 6, MX-5 Miata.

Handling & Performance:

The manual trans adds a few mpg and that is good, but in stop and go traffic you’d rather have an automatic. On the optimistic side it gives you something to do and thus you may even be more awake and alert.

I found that on a mountain course I found you don’t really need to shift all that much. The 184 hp matched with a long third gear pretty much handled slow to intermediate speed of travel.

Styling:

As always, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. On the practical side Mazda is a solid company with well made cars with a generous supply of standard equipment and comfort built in.

Fit and Finish:

I can always count on Mazda to deliver fit and finish that is consistently very good.

Cost:

It is competitive with a host of features that put Mazda at the top of my list.

Conveniences and comfort:

I’m impressed with a generous list of stuff that includes the most modern state of the art technology features. Blind Spot and Cross traffic sensing and alert is important to me. Stability and cruise controls are a must for my car as well. I also appreciate the Hill Start, especially with a manual transmission.

Consumer Recommendations:

I have tested all of these makes and models and I encourage you to test drive all if you can, but the top of my list include this Mazda 3, Ford Focus, Kia Forte and VW Golf.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda 3 $26,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $23,000, Ford Focus $25,000, Kia Forte 5 $23,000, Toyota Prius Hybrid $31,000, Nissan LEAF SL Hybrid $38,000, Volkswagen Golf $26,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, great listing of standard features, comfortable, good power.

Bad News:

For many, the manual transmission will be a drawback, (but you will only sacrifice a few mpg with an automatic if that is your choice).

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 184 hp 4-cylinder engine, Skyactive MT 6-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brake system, 18” alloy wheels, rain sensing variable intermittent wipers, heated power mirrors with turn signal lights, 5 passenger seating, fog lights, moon roof, leather trimmed seats, 8-way power driver seat, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry and push button start, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, leather wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and brake handle, 5 year 60,000 mile warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance, anti-theft engine immobilizer, blind sport and rear cross traffic alert, tire pressure monitor, electric power assist steering, auto on/off lights, body color rear hatch spoiler, 7” color touch screen, rear view camera, navigation system, Bose 9-speaker audio system, am/fm/cd HD radio, Sirius XM radio, sms text message, Bluetooth hands free phone/audio, cruise control, trip computer, steering wheel mounted controls, paddle shifters, stability control, traction control, hill launch assist, front, front sided front and back side curtain air bags.

Gas Stats:

$2.65/ Gal avg. October 9, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

26 City and 35 Highway MPG

Combined MPG

Mazda 3 – 30 combined mpg, Mitsubishi Lancer – 25 combined mpg, Ford Focus – 25 mpg, Kia Forte 5 24 combined mpg, Prius Hybrid -52 combined mpg (electric), Nissan LEAF – 114 combined mpg (electric), VW Golf – 28 combined mpg.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,545.

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWD (1159)

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2016 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWD (1159)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer 2.4 SEL AWD. And in this class they are fairly basic general purpose 4-door sedans that seat 5. This Lancer is comparable in most respects and I enjoy all competitors listed here. All are affordable at around $22,000.

Some will determine their purchase based on country of manufacturer that include Japan, Germany, Korea and USA.  I’d be hard pressed to make a final decision and although I don’t presently need to make that call, you may.

Considerations will vary widely based on your particular situation. But if your current car will need major repairs all the way to simply needing tires, you can hardly go wrong replacing that car that also is likely 5 years old and pushing 70,000 miles. Make your choice and take the plunge – that’s my suggestion.

General Information: It is assembled in Kurishiki, Japan Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Japan 97%; Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Compact Cars. Cars from Mitsubishi: iMiEV, Lancer, Lancer Evolution, Mirage, Mirage G4, Outlander and Outlander Sport.

Handling & Performance:

Handling is perfectly fine. I enjoyed the ride all week and enjoyed the excellent fuel economy while I never felt shorted on the power it delivered. I was a happy camper.

Styling:

Basic… and that’s a good thing.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Competitive.

Conveniences and comfort:

Basic in this class to me means it just doesn’t have that level of convenience including things like adaptive smart cruise control, Blind spot detection, Crash avoidance and the like. But that being said, it DOES include all the necessary features as standard equipment. I was, for example, surprised when it began to rain and the windshield wipers came on before I would have turned them on. Yep, rain sensing wipers. Cool.

And you know what, as I drove each day I appreciated simple things – like the radio that actually had knobs for volume and tuning. That is important because it gives me hope that some car makers still agree that knobs may be the best way to select stations. Not everything needs to be push button. A good example is the years that Chrysler employed a push button shift system. Predictably it didn’t last long.

Consumer Recommendations:

Mitsubishi has a long heritage and a very good reputation. I haven’t heard a lot about them and for me that is a very good thing. Why? Because as you may recall I was co-owner of an automotive repair shop in La Canada CA for many years. We simply didn’t work on many Mitsubishi cars.

Recognized Competition:

Mitsubishi Lancer SEL $23,000, Subaru Impreza $20,000, VW Jetta $25,000, Hyundai Elantra $22,000, Chevrolet Cruze $20,000, Mazda 3 $24,000, Dodge Dart $25,000. Kia Forte $21,000, Toyota Corolla $24,000.

Good News:

Fantastic price point value, very good fuel economy – what more can you ask of a lower cost family sedan / commuter.

Bad News:

A little light weight that IS this segment of the market. For example, you notice the “thin” and a bit flimsy sun visors and they don’t extend. I know it’s a small thing but it reminds me that I’m in a basic car priced accordingly and you therefore expect such things including a higher level of road noise and trunk lids and doors that sound tinny when closed.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine, power steering, all wheel drive, auto headlights, fog lights, heated mirrors, rain sensings wipers, 18” alloy wheels, heated leather front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seat, climate control, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio, cruise and Bluetooth controls, am/fm/cd/mp3/siriur XM 6-speaker audio, bluetooth technology with usb port, rear view camera, keyless proximity entry system, power windows and locks, ABS brake system with brake force distribution and brake assist, stability and traction controls, tire pressure monitor, front and side airbags and driver knee airbag, LATCH, safety rear door locks, theft security alarm system and theft deterrent engine immobilizer.

Gas Stats:

$2.59 Gal avg. September 24, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

23 City and 31 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $21,995.

2016 Hyundai Tucson Ltd., FWD (1158)

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2016 Hyundai Tucson Ltd., FWD (1158)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Hyundai Tucson Ltd., FWD. It is named after the American desert town in Arizona, styled in Germany, and built in South Korea. It’s value packed, too—touchscreen infotainment with satellite radio is standard. This Limited model has navigation, leather seats, and front-wheel drive that are standard. It is powered by a 175-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is optional.

It was a joy to drive. I kept thinking that I could own this car/SUV. It has almost everything I want in a car. However, I would make sure my Tucson included smart cruise control.

General Information: It is assembled in Ulsan, Korea; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Korea 93%; Engine & Transmission – Korea; Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Coupe, Elantra GT, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, Tucson and Veloster.

Handling & Performance:

Everybody has a different like when it comes to steering feel. Some want more steering effort, others less. Well, with Drive Mode Select, you get to choose. Drive Mode adjusts both engine and transmission response and steering effort to match your driving style. Select from three modes: Eco, Normal or Sport by simply touching a button on the center console.

Turbocharging makes it fast which is welcomed because for normal driving you don’t always need the boost but nice to have in a pinch, all the while maintaining good fuel economy.

Styling:

All competition is very similar is styling but taken as a whole Hyundai cars and crossovers are my favorites.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Priced competitively

Conveniences and comfort:

Most every feature you’d ever need and more.

Consumer Recommendations:

The only other feature I would want to be included in my car is the Crash Avoidance that I equate with Smart or Adaptive Cruise control. That, to me, is among the most valuable of technology features available in today’s cars. That I’d be happy to pay extra for. One day, however, such features will be standard. Until then we’ll have to pop for the added cost, but it is worth it.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Tucson $23-32,000, Mazda CX-5 $23-31,000, Ford Escape $24-33,000.

Honda CRV $25-34,000, Kia Sportage $23-32,000, Jeep Cherokee $24-39,000, Chevrolet Equinox $26,000, Jeep Patriot $27,000, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport $23,000, Subaru Forester $23-35,000, Toyota RAV-4 $27,000 and Jeep Wrangler $25-38,000.

Good News:

Well priced, one of the best warrantees of any car, quiet and smooth ride, Turbo gives it that needed boost and is good on gas.

Bad News:

n/a

Standard Equipment:

1.6 liter Turbo GDI 175 hp 4-cylinder engine, 7-speed ECO-shift auto transmission, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic brake assist and brake force distribution, stability and traction controls, down hill brake control, Hillstart assist control, front and front side and side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitor, drive mode select, 19” allow wheels, side mirror turn signal indicators, proximity key with push button start, fog lights, LED taillights, leather seating with heated front seats, power front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seats, power windows and door locks, dual auto temp climate control, tilt and telescopic steering comumn, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio, cruise and phone controls, Bluetooth hands free phone system , 8” Touch screen, navigation system with rearview camera, Sirius XM radio, AM/FM MP3 premium audio with USB and Aux input jacks, Leather wrapped shift knob, Blind Spot detection, with rear cross traffic alert and Lane change assist.

Gas Stats:

$2.57/ Gal avg. September 17, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

25 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,900.

2016 Mazda CX-3 (1157)

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2016 Mazda CX-3 (1157)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Mazda CX-3 4-door 5 passenger compact car. One distinction of this model, as equipped so well, has an MSRP of just over $26,000. To me this is a great commuter that doubles as a family car that is economical. We have choices, choose wisely for your need.

General Information: It is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 85%   Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Compact. Cars from Mazda: CX 3, CX 5, CX 9, Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mazda 6, MX-5 Miata.

Handling & Performance:

My Crest Test part of the review was an outstanding experience. I don’t automatically see Mazda as an ultra-capable road warrior, but this CX-3 made me a believer. It handled rather impressively over the challenging mountain course over Angeles Crest highway through the San Gabriel Mountains. It was smooth and met every challenge perfectly. Nice.

Styling:

Very clean contemporary design evidenced not only to my senses but even by inquiries from a couple of youthful drivers who wanted to know what I thought. Most are curious because they like the look. My response was “It really handles and performes very well”…

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Affordable for this 5-passenger AWD commuter.

Conveniences and comfort:

One of the best coverages of safety features of most cars in this segment of the market. In particular the safety features are usually present only on more expensive cars. The features I’m most interested in include Smart Cruise control, Blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and Navigation add a lot to be more comfortable in my travels.

Consumer Recommendations:

We have choices in how we use our financial resources. Brother John opted for Ferrari’s and Corvettes and lots of horses. I don’t recommend that unless you are really lucky. Average Joe’s like me lean more on the practical mode of transportation. Horses and buggies and Ferrari’s hardly fall into my thought process of economy. He did convince me to get a Harley and although I took a couple of interesting falls, it didn’t kill me. Same with the horses that I never owned but loved that quiet mode of transportation in the back country. Going where few will ever go.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda CX-3 $27,000, Fiat 500 X $28,000, Honda HR-V $27,000, MINI Countryman $29,000.

Good News:

Well priced, good fuel economy (mpg), handles and performs very well.

Bad News:

Range could be better with a larger fuel tank.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 148 hp engine, skyactive drive 6-speed transmission, all-wheel-drive, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brake system, 18” alloy wheels, variable intermittent wipers front and rear, heated power mirrors with turn signal lights, rear roof spoiler, 5 passenger seating, tilt and telescopic steering column, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, power automatic door locks, power windows, leather/suede heated front sport seats, 6-way manual adjustable driver’s seat, tire pressure monitoring, LATCH child safety seat anchors, anti-theft engine immobilizer, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert , electrical power steering, front stabilizer bar, LED headlights, daytime running lights, LED fog lights, climate control, active driving display, navigation system, Bose AM/FM /CD,MP3,7-speaker audio system, Aux jack / USB input, Bluetooth hands free phone/audio, 7” color touch screen display, rearview camera, traction control, stability control, hill launch assist, front, side and front and rear side curtain airbags.

Gas Stats:

$2.65/ Gal avg. September 10, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

Combined MPG

Mazda CX-3 – 29 mpg, Fiat 500 X 24 mpg, Honda HR-V – 27 mpg, MINI Countryman – 29 mpg.

28 City and 40 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,240.

2016 Jeep Renegade Sport 4X4 (1156)

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2016 Jeep Renegade Sport 4X4 (1156)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Jeep Renegade Sport 4X4.  Well, I need to admit I have been testing a lot of Jeeps lately because I’m looking to buy one and wanted to look at all Jeep options. I want a good all-around vehicle to tow behind a motorhome. I understand Jeeps are easy to tow and gives great off road capability. If you have a first-hand experience and you care to share your information, I’d be interested in your thoughts. joe@atthewheel.com

I was interested to see this Jeep Renegade is made in Italy. I have to say it brings up an industry shift over the past half century to a ‘cooperative’ global industry. But it is not just international responsibility.

It has been my experience, first-hand, that the goodwill developed from trade between countries is a good thing. I have visited factories in Japan, Mexico and Europe and found that mutually beneficial relationships break down barriers between people.

So the point is that I’m encouraged to see this Jeep and other cars being manufactured, in part or total, in cooperating countries around the world. This link shows those car companies that manufacture their cars in the US. It will surprise you.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_automobiles_manufactured_in_the_United_States

Likewise, U.S. companies manufacture some of their brands in other parts of the world as they share the car market in today’s world. They also share ownership of each other and that adds to the fact that we see more and more assembly of all car brands being done everywhere and anywhere.

General Information: It is assembled in Melfi, Italy. Parts – US/Canadian 22%, Italy 62%,Engine and Transmission – Italy; Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Jeep: Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, Renegade & Wrangler.

Handling & Performance:

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.

2016 Jeep Renegade Sport 4X4

2016 Jeep Renegade Sport 4X4_1

Styling:

Thankfully there has been little change in styling in the Icon that Jeep has become. And from my military days up to today it remains an image of can-do and wanna do. This is a mechanical buddy in good days and in tough times, as well, that you can count on. Yep 75 years old and counting. Nice job Jeep.

Fit and Finish:

This SUV is built for endurance so it is necessarily basic and quite frankly as good as it needs to be.

Cost:

The renegade is a good value at an MSRP of $20,000. The only way it becomes more is when you add things unnecessary for effective off road use.

Conveniences and comfort:

Yep – basic is good. Too much high tech stuff is not only unnecessary, it detracts from the practical use so likely un-wanted by serious outdoorsmen as well.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you have never been on a Jeep Jamboree somewhere on the two dozen venues in the USA and you are an outdoors lover and you own a Jeep you should look into it. If you don’t own one you’re missing the experience and education of a lifetime.

Jamboree’s are rated according to level of difficulty of the venue. Visit the link for more –https://jeepjamboreeusa.com/tripsregister/

Recognized Competition:

Jeep Renegade $20,000, Chevrolet Trax $25,000, Nissan Juke $29,000, Honda HR-V $24,000, Mazda CX-3 $22,000.

Good News:

Affordable, good fuel economy for 4-wheel drive.

Bad News:

n/a

Standard Equipment:

1.4 liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 4X4, front and side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, LATCH child anchor system, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, stability control, electric park brake, remote keyless entry, electronic roll mitigation, traction control, capless fuel fill, hill start assist, tire pressure monitor, front and rear 12-volt power outlet, 3.5 inch monochrome display, radio with 4-speakers, steering wheel mounted audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering column, USB hub, Manual 6-way driver seat and 4-way passenger seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, 16” steel wheels, rear wiper.

Gas Stats:

$2.69/ Gal avg. September 4, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

24 City 31 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $19,995.

2016 Audi TT Coupe 2.0 T Quattro S tronic (1155)

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2016 Audi TT Coupe 2.0 T Quattro S tronic (1155)

Overview:

This is the 2016 Audi TT Coupe 2.0 T Quattro S tronic. Lovely and a styling improvement visually from previous years, in my opinion. And that is only the beginning of a special driving week.

If I were in my youth this would have been a car I would “have” to own. But like the VW Carmen Ghia we had when married, it became too small when the kids came along. Surprise, surprise. Everything in its own time and place.

This was a flash back to years long gone by, but a welcomed visitation. What a fun car to drive and you sit in a jet-like cockpit that is cozy and comfortable. It is small but that’s the whole idea. If you need a bus, you buy a bus but if you want the exhilaration and heart throbbing thrill of such well-done sports cars this is just what the doctor ordered.

It is interesting that the industry identifies competitors that are much more money and only seat 2 as compared to the Audi and Infiniti that seat 4.

General Information: It is assembled in Gyor, Hungary; Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Hungary 52%, Germany 39%; Engine – Hungary and transmission – Germany; Classification is Sub Compact. Cars from Audi: A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sedan, A3 Sportback e-tron, A4, A5, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6, A7, A8, Allroad, Q3, Q5, Q7, R8, RS 5, RS 5 Cabriolet, RS 7, S3, S4, S5, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S6, S7, S8, SQ5, TT, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, TTS and TTS Coupe.

Handling & Performance:

Exhilarating doesn’t express the emotion adequately. If you read my columns often you know Audi is the “tops”. It can always be counted on for an amazing driving experience. Really among the best there is. I’ve driven all including Ferrari and even owned a Lamborghini and Porsche that were all exciting but for the money this Audi is hard to beat.

Styling:

Stunning in a simple sort of way. But even before I read about the term “Virtual cockpit” that Audi uses to explain the design of the driver seating area I explained it as a jet-like cockpit. And while we’re on the cockpit the interior is quietly elegant with nice LED lighting highlights, and aluminum touches on the pedals, etc.

Fit and Finish:

Audi excellence.

Cost:

As expected and highly competitive pricing. Note that only the Audi and Infiniti seat 4 while all others are two seat cars and substantially more money.

Conveniences and comfort:

Audi MMI operating system allows you to instinctively manage an array of systems including navigation, entertainment, interior, even ride dynamics on models with Audi drive select.

Consumer Recommendations:

If you have a love affair with cars that are exceptional handling and performance and you are in the market for a sports car, you must test drive this little gem. You’ll love it – I promise. However, if you are on a tight budget, buy a Mazda MX 5 Miata. They’re fun but – well –  drive them both, check your wallet or bank account …. Then decide.

If you tend to get in trouble with the CHP definitely go with the Miata.

One more consideration is that you should always be informed. Go to this website link for further information on cost to own and drive performance cars like this Audi TT:

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/10-most-expensive-cars-to-own-and-drive-1.aspx#ixzz3xX9RQ6Kz

Recognized Competition:

Audi TT $43,000, BMW Z4 $51,000, Infiniti Q60 $42,000, Porsche Boxster $53,000, Jaguar F Type $66,000.

Good News:

Fan-tastic driving delight, good fuel economy, beautiful styling inside and out.

Bad News:

Luxury car performance means luxury car cost of ownership – both of which are not for the faint hearted.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 220 hp inline 4-cylinder engine, quattro all wheel drive, 6-speed automatic transmission, 18” 5 double spoke wheels, stability control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist, adaptive (automatic) rear spoiler with manual operation feature, tire pressure monitor, audi virtual cockpit, heated mirrors, keyless entry and push button start, drive select, heated 12-way power driver seat, leather interior, 50/50 split folding rear seat, AM/FM/Sat/CD audio with SD card reader, 3-spoke multifunction leather wrapped flat bottom steering wheel with shift paddles, climate control, LED tail lights and interior highlights, HomeLink, Bluetooth with audio streaming, Audi MMI touch with voice control, music interface with two USB ports and a 3.5 mm aux-in, auto dimming interior mirror with compass, parking assist, rain and light sensor, front and side airbags and front knee bags, side curtain airbags, LATCH child safety teathers, anti theft alarm system with ignition immobilizer, 4-year roadside assistance.

Gas Stats:

$2.40/ Gal avg. August 26, 2016

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

23 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $42,900.

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