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

2014 Hyundai Azera (1033)

13-05-2014Autolove No comments

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 2%, Korea 89%; Engine & Transmission – Korea
Assembly – Asan, Korea
Class: – Large cars
Cars: – Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2014 Hyundai Azera 4-door sedan. I like all of the Hyundai products and it is customary for car companies to provide a model for all budgets. This Azera gives mid-range buyers a luxury like car for the young executive and family. It seats five and competes with far more expensive luxury cars where you are paying $10-15,000 more just for the ‘badge’. This relatively new entrant into the market still offers the advantage of aggressive pricing. The window of opportunity to get in before the prices rise will not last more than the next year or so, because the press is singing its praises.

General Information: Parts from the US / Canada 2%; Korea 89%. It is assembled in Asan, Korea, Classification is Large cars. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.

Handling & Performance:

Smooth comfortable ride that has the power when called upon.

Styling:

The look of today’s luxury cars. Sleek aerodynamic lines that are common to most luxury sedans.

Fit and Finish:

Very Good

Cost:

A real value in class.

Conveniences and comfort:

The list below is very complete with all the necessary safety features and technology items I consider customary in today’s world.

Consumer Recommendation:

As I have mentioned in prior Hyundai reviews it is my opinion that Hyundai is the car of the year. It has unseated the Japanese cars generally and it reminds me that when you are number two you try harder. It is clear the Korean’s came to the game to play hard. I have had personal experience with another division that manufacturers large truck trailers and in the past 20 years they have won the business of companies like Fed X and UPS. In their plant in Mexico you see a quality operation. I’m as impressed with the management there as I was a few decades ago when I visited a Japanese plant.

Here with a consumer testimonial:

The styling, fit and finish, engine performance and smoothness, you can barely hear the engine at idle speed. Gas mileage is very good, I just returned from a road trip of about 800 miles, my gas mileage average was 30.5 per gallon in my 2014 Limited. This car is in a class by itself. Before my purchase I drove the Lexus ES350, Toyota Avalon and Buick Lacrosse. In my opinion the Azera tops all of them. I also owned a 2013 Azera base model that led me to the 2014 limited model, so far I am extremely pleased.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Azera $35,000, Buick Verano $29,000, Chevrolet Impala $36,000, Dodge Charger $29,000, Honda Accord $33,000, Mazda 6 $30,000, Mercedes Benz $47,000, Nissan Altima $31,000.

Good News:

Excellently managed company, exceptionally well priced, powerful and comfortable ride.

Bad News:

None

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter 293 horsepower V6, Continuously variable valve timing, 6 speed automatic transmission, 18” Silver Alloy wheels, stability management system, traction control, front, front and rear side bags, driver knee bag, side curtain airbags, brake assist disc brakes with brake force distribution, tire pressure monitor, heated power folding side mirrors, proximity key entry with push button start, auto headlight control, leather seating with heated front and rear seats, ventilated front seats, power adjustable front seats, power tilt and telescopic steering column, Bluetooth, memory system for driver seat, mirrors and steering wheel, 8” touch screen Navigation system, HD radio with SIRIUS XM satellite, climate control.

Gas Stats:

$4.05 / Gal avg. May 26, 2014

www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

19 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $34,750.

2013 Hyundai Genesis (955)

14-12-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Hyundai Genesis which is my second favorite of the Hyundai line right after the Equus as far as luxury goes. It surely is a contender to unseat the European giants like Mercedes Benz, BMW and Audi, and the Japanese Lexus.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada 1%; Korea 78%. It is assembled in Ulsan, Korea, Classification is Large cars.Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent in every respect. Seating is comfortable, lots of leg room and head room, and a lot of power. This is truly a very nice road / highway car.

Styling:

Elegant like all the rest in this luxury class. Some people, totally unsolicited, commented it looks like a Mercedes, or Lexus. And people with a lot of money are terribly impressed and some I know have opted to buy Hyundai. These Korean’s have stolen a page out of the early Japanese auto makers in giving what the consumer wants and by now that formula is tried and tested and true.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent

Cost:

Now when you talk about cost to buy, the Giants are knocked off their feet with a MSRP of $34,200. I’ll take two and replace the one popular badged luxury car so my wife and I can have one each.

Conveniences and comfort:

Ultra comfortable and all the conveniences most cars should include and those consumers want or need. Ok, so there could be other features I would pop for but they are few and not needed… unless I want to spend $4 grand more.

The car I tested did have some ups and extras you may want to include, like Nav (which I have on my iPhone and I used even when one is built in, in many cases), BlueLink that is a new “Super Sleuth” feature I would do without (you may have young drivers who need monitoring), Bluetooth is one I wouldn’t do without but there are portable options available, Smart Cruise is a feature I love but could live without, front and rear parking assistance is nice but that too I could live without, cooled and heated driver seat is not a must if you live in California, but if you live in Minnesota I’m guessing you might want to warm your back side when the weather outside is frightful. If I just had to have it all, you would push the price up by $4,000.

The other is the Premium package that adds things that are even less likely to push me to spend another $4,800. Power sunroof, leather dash and door trim, memory system for driver seat, mirror and steering wheel settings, power tilt and telescopic steering column, power rear sun shade totally unnecessary (but nice), rain sensing wipers and auto defogger, Nav traffic 90 day trial (that I have found to be almost useless anyway), Hyper Silver Split spoke alloy wheels (Woopie).

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are looking at Lexus, Mercedes, BMW or Audi keep looking all the way to the Genesis or if you must spend more, look at the Equus, but of course both are from Hyundai.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Genesis $34,000, Audi A6 $42,000, Audi A7 $60,000, Jaguar XF Series $53,000, Infiniti G Sedan $37,000, Cadillac XTS $44,000, Lincoln MKS $43,000, Volvo S80 $38,000, Chrysler 300 $30,000, Acura TL $36,000, Mercedes Benz E-Class $46,000, Lexus GS 350 $47,000, BMW 5 Series $47,000, Infiniti FX $42,000, Infiniti M $49,000.

Good News:

Great styling, decent fuel economy for a powerful luxury car, lots of great features and options available, it is priced very well and is a comfortable ride that looks elegant.

Bad News:

n/a

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 333 horsepower V6 engine with continuously variable valve timing, 8 speed automatic transmission, special damping shock absorbers, fully independent suspension, 17” alloy wheels, stability control, traction control, ABS 4-wheel disc brakes with brake force distribution and brake assist, front, side and side curtain airbags, fog lights, auto headlights, heated power mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather seating with heated front seats, power windows, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, proximity keyless entry with push button start/ stop, climate control, cruise control, homelink integrated transceiver, Bluetooth hands free phone system, audio with Sirius XM, CD, MP3 with 7 speakers, iPod and USB and Auxiliary input, steering wheel mounted controls.

Gas Stats:

$3.45 / Gal avg. December 237zs, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

18 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $34,200.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com

2014 Audi S4 3.0 Supercharged Quattro Automatic (1002)

10-10-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2014 Audi S4 3.0 Supercharged Quattro S Tronic sedan. The “S” in S4 means Supercharged as opposed to “T” for Turbocharged engine. If you didn’t see last week’s A5 review, it was turbocharged and I am repeating the explanation of the difference between Super and Turbo charging:

Let’s start with the similarities. Both turbochargers and superchargers are called forced induction systems. They compress the air flowing into the engine that has the advantage of stuffing more air into the cylinders which means more fuel can also be stuffed in as well so you get more power from each explosion in each cylinder. Thus = more power.

The typical boost provided by either a turbocharger or a supercharger is 6 to 8 pounds per square inch (psi). Since normal atmospheric pressure is 14.7 psi at sea level you get about 50-percent more air into the engine.

The key difference between a turbocharger and a supercharger is its power supply. In a supercharger, there is a belt that connects directly to the engine to turn the compressor, like an alternator does. A turbocharger, on the other hand, gets its power from the exhaust stream. The exhaust runs through a turbine, which in turn spins the compressor.

There are tradeoffs in both systems. In theory, a turbocharger is more efficient because it is using the “wasted” energy in the exhaust stream for its power source. On the other hand, a turbocharger causes some amount of back pressure in the exhaust system and tends to provide less boost until the engine is running at higher RPMs. Superchargers are more responsive and avoid the characteristic delay you get from Turbo boost compression. Superchargers are also easier to install but also tend to be more expensive.

General Information:

It is assembled in Ingolstadt, Germany. Classification is Compact. Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Germany 75%, Engine – Hungary, Transmission: Germany.
Cars from Audi: A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, allroad, Q5, Q7, R8, RS5, RS7, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, SQ5 &TT.

Handling & Performance:

Super-fast off the line with a 3.0 liter 333 horsepower supercharged engine. It has a noticeably smooth ride in my opinion and more importantly it was mentioned by my friend Mark who drives a new BMW 7 Series with every bell and whistle for a ‘smooth’ $125,000. The fact that he mentioned the acceleration and smooth ride speaks volumes.

Styling:

Audi just has that signature look of German engineering and design and is very distinctive and easy on the eyes. If it evokes passion it does so on several levels for me: Looks, Luxury and Performance.

Fit and Finish:

Exceptional.

Cost:

You get what you pay for as always and the Audi badge doesn’t disappoint and is a super competitor in every class. But, once again, I have to say you must also know you pay for the image this car delivers.

Conveniences and comfort:

As equipped it has all the expected features in class and pricing.

Consumer Recommendation:

At the top of any market the players are pared down to a precious few, and it is a very fine line as to good better or best, because they are all fabulous. Such a lineup is like the Miss Universe Pageant when they narrow the field down to the final few contestants – they are all winners to me but then I’m easy. These are all beautiful cars and although I have my favorites I’m glad I don’t have to choose just one. I prefer to drive them all. But I will share a passion of mine over the years which is Cadillac and suggest you won’t be disappointed in the test drive. It is special.

Recognized Competition:

Audi S4 $49,000, BMW 3-series $45,000, Cadillac CTS $62,000, Infiniti G Sedan $39,000, Lexus IS 350 $42,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG $60,000, Mercedes Benz E-Class $52,000, Volvo S60 $42,000.

Good News:

Elegant, fabulously fun to drive if you appreciate performance in ‘speed’. It also has a cloud-like soft ride.

Bad News:

This is a narrow group of contender because it is a pricey class. In Detroit you could buy two or three houses for the money.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 333 hp Supercharged V6 engine, seven speed auto transmission, all-wheel drive, 18” wheels, 4-wheel ABS brake system, stability control, speed sensitive power steering, sunroof, heated power mirrors, S sport leather seating, heated 8-way power front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seats, climate control, audio with Satellite and CD player, iPod music interface, front side and curtain airbags, anti-theft vehicle alarm, LATCH Child system.

Gas Stats:

$3.67/ Gal avg. Oct. 23, 2013
www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

18 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $49,500.

2014 Audi A5 2.0T Coupe Quattro MT (1001)

03-10-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2014 Audi A5 2.0T Coupe Quattro Manual Transmission. Just after testing this coupe I tested the S4 sedan that lit my fire as well, but for me the 4 door sedan is more to my liking. The “S” is Supercharged as opposed to this A5 “T” Turbocharged engine. I think most are aware of the difference between Super and Turbo charging by now but for those who don’t know, here is a brief explanation:

General Information: It is assembled in Ingolstadt, Germany. Classification is Subcompact. Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Germany 75%, Engine – Hungary, Transmission: Germany.
Cars from Audi: A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, allroad, Q5, Q7, R8, RS5, RS7, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, SQ5 &TT.

Handling & Performance:

Very responsive with the turbocharged engine and the ride is smooth and simply a delight to drive.

Styling:

Audi icon of German engineering. Design has improved over the years and is very distinctive and a lovely looking automobile.

Fit and Finish:

Exceptional.

Cost:

You get what you pay for but if you like the Audi badge and don’t need all the options it is competitive in class. But make no mistake you pay for the image.

Conveniences and comfort:

All the expected features in class and pricing.

Consumer Recommendation:

This is a pretty small field of cars to consider. With the exception of the Ford and VW this is a sophisticated group of luxury brands. This is a tough grouping to find a clear standout. I especially like the styling of Cadillac and it is a super performer as well, but I enjoy driving the substantial performers from Germany. I can take or leave the Japanese contenders.

Recognized Competition:

Audi A5 $39,000, BMW 3-series $41,000, Cadillac CTS $53,000, Ford Mustang GT Coupe $31,000, Infiniti G Coupe $40,000, Lexus ES 350 $36,000, Lexus IS $41,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (250) $38,000, Volkswagen CC $31,000.

Good News:

Nice performance and good fuel economy when you don’t push it the enticing power available, it is comfortable and provides a host of nice features.

Bad News:

Price will be a barrier to most consumers.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 220 hp inline 4 cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive, 18” wheels, 4-wheel ABS brake system, stability control, speed sensitive power steering, sunroof, tire pressure monitor, fog lights, rain and light sensors, power heated mirrors, leather seating, 8-way power front seats, drive information with trip computer, AM/FM/Sat/CD card reader, climate control, music interface w/iPod cable, front side and curtain and knee airbags, LATCH child tethers, anti-theft vehicle alarm. Note there are a lot of options that can push the total over $50,000 that you may want to consider but are not at all necessary.

Gas Stats:

$3.63/ Gal avg. Oct. 19, 2013
www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

22 City and 32Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $39,000.

2013 Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab 4X4 (999)

19-09-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2013 Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab 4X4. It provides super comfort and is a nice ride, especially on the highway where it also has the benefit of great visibility for safer maneuvering. However, on city streets and in town generally, it is cumbersome because of its size and long turning radius. That makes parking a challenge which is typical and expected for large trucks even if classed as ‘Standard Pickups’, like this one, it is still large.

Most folks call this a Dodge Ram because that is what it has been branded from its beginnings in 1981. In 2010 it began to be branded and sold simply as a Ram Truck and no longer a part of the lineup of Dodge vehicles. The Ram hood ornament first appeared in 1933 on Dodge vehicles.

This Ram is assembled in Michigan, and like many US auto manufacturers Chrysler also has some vehicles assembled in Canada and Mexico. It isn’t advertised which makes one wonder ‘why’? Toyota is a big ‘Made in Mexico’ company but also has huge manufacturing and assembly plants in the US as well. They all should promote such facts because it is a positive thing in today’s world. Consider that if all products were made just here in the US with its multi-national workforce. But setting up shop south of the border is good for both countries. It helps the economy where Mexican nationals don’t need to travel to the US for those jobs.

Yes, it is for economic reasons and jobs – not because the geography is different north of the border. Thanks to Chrysler, Ford, GM and Toyota to name some of the companies who have set up shop in Mexico, our neighbors to the south are able to earn a living in their country of choice.

I owned an automotive repair facility in Southern California where we employed mechanics and body work for primarily German and Italian cars. Workers were from Italy, Argentina, Mexico and Guatamala. I learned firsthand it was not because they were in love with America, per se, but the money was good. Oswaldo, one of the Guatamalan’s, sent nearly all of his pay home to his wife and children and their grandparents. They built a large home where he would retire, and has at this writing. He was legal, by the way, and one of the finest men I’ve ever known.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada 67%, Mexico 22%, Engine – Mexico, Transmission – Germany. It is assembled in Warren, Michigan, USA. Classification is Standard Pickup. Cars from Ram: 1500, 2500, 3500, Cargo Van, Dakota and Promaster.

Opinion and Observation:

Parking and modern day cars – in the old day’s most cars were large with higher ground clearance than today’s aerodynamic designed cars. They are therefore built closer to the ground to cut wind resistance which adds to fuel economy. That fact will not change any time soon.

My point is that every time a new parking area is built it should use lower tire stop cement to prevent damage to new cars. Is that only obvious to me? Are they stupid or what? Is it because all construction people drive Trucks and don’t notice the problem? Don’t they consider the cars that will use those spaces?

It may be a small thing to some, but it explains why more folks are backing into parking spaces.

Handling & Performance:

My first impression was how robustly powerful this truck is. It delivers a solid ride but it is also very big which will present problems when parking, especially because this is a world of a growing number of ‘compact’ or small cars. In days of old most cars were large and parking spaces were also. But today most spaces are marked “Compact”. Tough for most trucks.

Styling:

Ram tough in look and feel.

Fit and Finish:

Perfect.

Cost:

Competitive.

Conveniences and comfort:

Pretty basic but Options are available for a host of luxury upgrades that can total $11,000 if you opt for all.

Consumer Recommendation:

It is pretty clear that how you intend to use a truck should dictate which configuration fits best for you. For example, if it will be used on construction sites or ranch or farm you probably won’t need or want all the luxury items. If you will carry various sized cargo the RamBox Cargo Management system is another matter and very nice even at a cost of $1,295 if you need that feature.

Owners give it a very good rating. It is cheaper than the competition and better built was one comment from an owner in comparing to a Ford. I personally own a Ford F350 as well as a Chevrolet Silverado, and have owned a Dodge Dual wheel Ram 3500.

When you need a tough truck around the ranch, Dodge Ram has been a favorite for brother John. One reason is the Cummins diesel engine consistent with his Dump Truck fleet.

Recognized Competition:

Ram 1500 SLT $35,000, Chevrolet Avalanche $36,000, Ford F-150 XL $36,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $44,000, Honda Ridgeline $32,000, Nissan Titan SL $43,000, Toyota Tundra $35,000.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy for a work horse, actually 305 horses, super comfortable ride and powerful. There are lots of options to choose from to customize it to your need.

Bad News:

Large size will be cumbersome around town.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter 305 horsepower V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, electric shift on the fly transfer case, remote keyless entry, 7-pin wiring harness, 26 gallon fuel tank, front, side curtain front and rear airbags, stability control, 4-wheel ABS (antilock brake system) disc brakes, cruise control, sentry key theft deterrent system, auto headlights, locking tailgate.

Options are available for a host of luxury upgrades that can total $11,000.

Gas Stats:

$3.89 / Gal avg. October 5, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

16 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $35,120.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder PLT 4X4 SUV (998)

12-09-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder PLT (Platinum) 4X4 SUV. Overall this new version of the Pathfinder receives great consumer approval which I can understand thoroughly.

In the early days of Pathfinder it was rather uninspiring other than it was intended to be a serious off road alternative. But over the years the off road component has become less important and is at best a perception of why you need an off road vehicle. In keeping with that reality the outer appearance has improved for image as a SUV Sport Utility Vehicle made for the family with seating for 7 in its three rows of seats.

Pathfinder’s name implies they are indeed an off road vehicle and held out the longest to adopt the crossover configuration. And that means it put lipstick and a new dress on to go to the ball. I don’t imply it is the “Bell of the Ball” but you’ll have to admit it is very good looking. And the redesign is quieter and roomier inside. It claims a major (25%) improvement in fuel economy as compared to the older model.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada n/a. It is assembled in Smyrna, TN. Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Nissan: Altima, Armada, cube, Frontier, GT-R, JUKE, LEAF, Maxima, Murano, NV Cargo, NV Passenger, NV200, Pathfinder, Quest, Rogue, Sentra, Titan, Versa, Versa Note, Xterra and Z.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent in all respects. I really enjoyed driving this Nissan.

Styling:

Crossover redesign gives it a modern day look for the hills of Beverly Hills.

Fit and Finish:

Stands out and clearly up to the competition.

Cost:

Very competitive with all and perhaps in some views most closely aligned with Traverse, Pilot and Durango.
Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding array of features and conveniences. It is built into the pricing. And personally I could easily live without the Options packages noted here.

Consumer Recommendation:

Surely this will be at the top of the list of those to test drive unless you have a bias to a particular brand. But this Pathfinder is sure to turn your head and give you pause to reflect if Nissan might be a good move.

Recognized Competition:

Nissan Pathfinder $41,000, Acura MDX $43,000, Buick Enclave $38,000, Chevrolet Traverse $42,000, Dodge Durango $38,000, Honda Pilot $41,000, Mazda CX-9 $36,000, Subaru Tribeca $33,000, Toyota 4Runner $41,000, Toyota Highlander $39,000.

Good News:

Nice ride, nice looking and easy on the wallet or purse. Me, I don’t carry a purse but to each his own. Fuel economy is acceptable for a 7-passenger SUV.

Bad News:

Nothing jumped out at me so I didn’t want to spoil the date.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 200 Horsepower V6, Continuous Variable Transmission, Intuitive 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel vented ABS power disc brakes, electronic brake force distribution, 20” alloy wheels, front and side curtain airbags, LATCH child safety and rear door locks, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, immobilizer and security system, tire pressure monitor, 7-passenger seating, 3-rows leather seating with easy flex second row glide system, third row 50/50 split fold flat seating, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats, power windows and locks, leather wrapped steering wheels and shift knob, memory for driver, intelligent key with push button start, Remote engine start, climate control, rear sonar system, HDD nav system with voice recognition, traffic and weather, Sirius XM radio, Bose audio with CD/USB and MP3 playback, Bluetooth streaming audio, and hands free phone, 8” color monitor, advanced drive assist display, 4 12-volt outlets and one 120v outlet, power liftgate, power mirrors, auto headlights, fog lights, stainless steel kick plates, tow hitch, roof rails.
Options: Platinum premium package with entertainment system with DVD 7”, headphones wireless remote control, rear headphone jacks and Dual panorama moon roof with tinted glass with rear sliding sun shade for about $2,300 .

Gas Stats:

$3.89 / Gal avg. October 1, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov
For more information.

19 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $40,770.

2013 Dodge Journey SXT Blacktop (997)

05-09-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Dodge Journey SXT Blacktop small SUV. The base SXT front wheel drive is bargain priced with a smaller 4-cylinder engine that doesn’t do more than 1 mpg better than the V6 (standard on the Blacktop model), so if your budget permits I suggest you opt for the added power. All option items noted below as standard are for the model I tested and adds about $6,000 more than the base model priced at about $23,000. The base SE model is $19,495 and of course should be considered.

It has seating for 7 and really is a good SUV consideration for families on a budget and the built in Bolster seats is great for the kids. Dodge tells us it is the most affordable 7 passenger Crossover and it is hard to argue with that statement. It was introduced as a 2009 model year in late 2008.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada 35%; Mexico 57%; Engine – Mexico, Transmission – USA. It is assembled in Toluca, Mexico. Classification is Small SUV. Cars from Dodge: Avenger, Caliber, Challenger, Charger, Dart, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey, Nitro and SRT Viper.

Handling & Performance:

Crossovers, of course, are still higher profile than a minivan but lower profile than a typical off road vehicle. Thus they do handle pretty well with the benefit of good visibility and a softer ride. I tested the 273 horsepower V6 but from past tests the base model with the 2.4 liter 174 hp inline 4-cylinder is only adequate.

Styling:

Conventional crossover SUV design.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Base cost is $23,000 for the SXT with 173 horsepower 4-cylinder engine and without the customer preferred options. With the options noted the cost is $29,000.

Conveniences and comfort:

Good features with comfortable seating and a comfortable ride. I was annoyed with a touchy accelerator pedal but by the end of the test period I was able to adjust. The large touch screen display will be appreciated as it is simple and well laid out. The most notable convenience these days is the push button start/stop that is super convenient in my opinion. It has well designed visors that give perfect coverage of side window glare. The radio is easy to tune and they must be listening since more and more I’m finding traditional knob tuning is coming back.

Consumer Recommendation:

This field of competitors is closely matched in price and features so price won’t be as much a consideration as brand confidence, which is considerable for all Chrysler products these days. The size is perfect for most uses and because it seats up to 7 it is a great family car. It is a FWD and although it doesn’t get as good fuel economy as I would like, it is livable at 25 mpg highway.

Recognized Competition:

Dodge Journey $23,000, Chevrolet Equinox $24,000, Ford Edge $28,000, GMC Terrain $26,000, Honda Crosstour $27,000, Hyundai Veracruz $28,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $29,000, Kia Sportage $19,000, Nissan Murano $28,000, Nissan Xterra $23,000, Subaru Outback $23,000, Toyota RAV4 $23,000, VW Tiguan $23,000.

Good News:

Comfortable seating and ride, roomy, good visibility and a perfect size for most uses with 3-rows of seating for up to 7, and is fairly priced.

Bad News:

Fuel economy only average.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter 263 HP V6 engine, 6-speed automatic trans., six airbags, LATCH child system, 4-wheel power ABS brakes, stability control, roll mitigation, traction control, cruise control, keyless entry push button start, power windows and locks, theft deterrent, tire pressure monitor, variable intermittent wipers, audio jack input for mobile devices, leather seating steering wheel and shift knob, 19” wheels with gloss black aluminum paint, climate control, 8.4” touch screen display, Uconnect SAT/CD/DVD/MP3/SD card input, power 6-way driver seat, 4-way power passenger fold flat seat with storage, security alarm, auto headlights, overhead console, remote start, rear backup camera, park sense assist, 2 nd row seats with child booster seating, heated steering wheel, Bluetooth with voice command.

Gas Stats:

$3.89 / Gal avg. August 17, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

17 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,250.

2013 Chrysler 300 C Luxury Series AWD (996)

29-08-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Chrysler 300 C Luxury Series AWD Sedan. You know, over the years the consumer has dictated how cars should look and so we have the look we see in this classic new Chrysler style. It was, after all, a practical lowering of the front of the car to reduce wind resistance long before wind tunnels were reshaping the design of the automobile. Of course we did it by hook or crook, and my first application was my 1949 Oldsmobile hardtop coupe that at the time was the love of my life. It was a very un-scientific heating of the front coil springs and then we jumped up and down on the front until we got the desired amount of “Rake”.

And those were the “Good old Days”? Well it was effective and looked cool. I doubt it improved the fuel economy which you must know those cars were lucky to get 8-10 mpg and the way I drove it was more like 5-8 mpg. But then at $.20 a gallon who was counting.

In any case I think this 300 C looks cool with the added benefit of actually getting great fuel economy at 18-27 mpg. You gotta love that for a large luxury sedan.

General Information:

It is assembled in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Parts – US/Canadian 59% Mexico 15%; Engine – Mexico; Transmission – Germany; Classification is Large Cars. Cars from Chrysler: 200, 300 and Town & Country.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding.

Styling:

Distinctive – and pretty pretty pretty.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Best bang for the buck amongst this luxury sedan line up.

Conveniences and comfort:

One feature that I never could understand is the remote start system… until I was in freezing conditions in the Pacific Northwest. I stood by the window pushed the start button and when I braved the freezing cold everything in the car was toasty warm. I was a believer there, but in many climates it is like an appendage that is not needed.

However there are some features I really liked as noted in the options. Although interesting, I could live without the auto high beams but if they throw it in that’s ok, but some that are worth paying for include: (in my opinion), the “smart cruise control” they refer to as adaptive speed control, and the sensors for rear and blind spot side and cross traffic detection. You really appreciate such features when you don’t have them as they are addictive and you come to depend on them very quickly. You may not want to wait until they are standard equipment… of course depending on your budget.

Consumer Recommendation:

There is little doubt in my mind that if you are in the market for luxury this 300C is the best bang for the buck. Some will be more impressed with the “Badge” rather than the value but clearly this wins the debate hands down as you don’t pay for the high end foreign imports name recognition. Definitely one to strongly consider. Me, I’m conflicted because I love the Hyundai Genesis as the only other that would turn my head when making the decision to choose between them.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler 300 $42,000, Acura TL $43,000, Audi A6 $42,000, BMW 5-Series $48,000, Cadillac CTS $56,000, Chevrolet Impala $36,000, Dodge Charger $32,000, Ford Fusion $32,000, Ford Taurus $31,000, Hyundai Genesis $47,000, Indiniti M $51,000, Jaguar XF Series $47,000, Kia Cadenza $35,000, Lexus GS $47,000, Lincoln MKS $45,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class $39,000, Mercedes –Benz E-Class $51,000, Nissan Maxima $33,000, Toyota Avalon $36,000, VW Passat $34,000, Volvo S60 $45,000.

Good News:

Extremely well equipped luxury sedan that is priced well for all you get. Decent fuel economy, lots of power at your disposal, nice styling and an overall super smooth and comfortable ride.

Bad News:

None noted.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter 392 horsepower V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel ABS (anti-lock brake system) performance disc brakes, stability control, traction control, power steering, front and side curtain airbags front and rear and driver knee bag, sentry key theft deterrent and security alarm system, keyless remote entry and remote start system, cruise control, heated and ventilated front seats, leather interior accents, power front seats, heated rear seats, Uconnect CD/DVD/MP3/Garmin navigation system, rear backup camera, 276 watt amplifier and 6-speakers, Bluetooth streaming audio, SiriusXM Satellite radio, climate control, steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, heated luxury steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering column, power adjustable pedals with memory, rear power sunshade, 19” polished aluminum wheels, 4-wheel independent AWD suspension, heated exterior mirrors.

Options:

for about $6,000 more you can opt for some pretty slick features, including blind spot and cross path detection, adaptive speed control, forward collision warning, rain sensitive wipers, adaptive headlights, auto high beam control, auto headlight leveling system, rear fog lights, dual pane panoramic sunroof and parking assist front and rear.

Gas Stats:

$3.99/ Gal avg. September 15, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

18 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $42,345.

2013 Hyundai Accent SE 5-door (995)

22-08-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Hyundai Accent SE 5-Door sedan. And the “Accent” is on Economy transportation. It’s not my style but neither do I look to drive a gas guzzler any longer, so I’ve learned a balanced approach is best for me. But I would buy this for my kids as they enter high school or college.

In this class and price range it is surely a good buy, as I said for the kids or a young family or simply a commuter car. It also fits any cost conscious budget in order to have a rather spacious compact sedan priced right and cheap to operate day to day.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada 1%; Korea 91% including engine and transmission. It is assembled in Ulsan, Korea, Classification is Compact cars. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.

Handling & Performance:

Zippy, around town car but only ok on the highway. It will keep up with traffic but must continually shift down to do so. But on the flip side it gets you there stingily on gas which is the most compelling mitigating fact and that is a very big deal these days and will be even more so in the immediate future.

I did feel the accelerator is a little too touchy which they (Hyundai engineers) need to look at. On the other hand the cruise control is smooth and better than some other more expensive car.

Styling:

As I said, it doesn’t appeal to my sense of sight but it is more important that “you” like the design. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and further I could take ‘ugly’ if it got 100 mpg.

Fit and Finish:

One consumer / owner said fit and finish is ‘excellent’ but I can only give it a very good.

Cost:

Now THIS IS excellent. This is a cost of a new car most can justify.

Conveniences and comfort:

It holds the road well, and generally it is a comfortable ride. It has nice simple gauges and controls including the manual a/c. It does not have NAV or back-up camera, but most of us can live without these features.

Consumer Recommendation:

This segment of the Compact Car market is rich for the picking. I have driven them all and would be hard pressed to pick out just one for me to buy. I’ve owned a Ford Fiesta and handed it down to my daughter when she turned 16 and it was a great car… right up until she totaled it. And although she flipped it upside down, slid thru one yard to the next by crashing through a fence and ended up on the porch of that second house. She and her two companions survived un-scratched – although shaken and stirred because they were not wearing seatbelts. Go figure. Luck or just a good car. Your guess is as good as mine.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Accent SE $16,000, Chevrolet Sonic LT $18,000, Fiat 500 Hatchback $18,000, Ford Fiesta SE $16,000, Honda CRZ $20,000, Honda Fit $18,000, Kia Forte $19,000, Kia Rio EX $17,000, Mazda 2 $16,000, Nissan Versa $17,000, Toyota Yaris $17,000.

Good News:

Very good fuel economy, great pricing, good features for the money.

Bad News:

Touchy accelerator, struggles to keep up and shifts down a lot on grades.

Standard Equipment:

1.6 GDI 138 HP 4-cylinder engine, dual CVT continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed automatic transmission, Stability control, traction control, 4-wheel ABS power assist brakes with brake force distribution, front side and side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitor, air conditioning, audio system with AM/FM/satellite Sirius XM/CD/MP3, iPod/USB and auxiliary input jacks, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, Bluetooth hands free phone, power windows and locks, heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, trip computer, cloth door inserts, 60/40 rear split folding seat, tinted window glass, fog lights, 16” alloy wheels, (add $900 if you want a power sunroof).

Gas Stats:

$3.85 / Gal avg. September 7, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

28 City and 37 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,095.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE (994)

14-08-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE that continues to please those who appreciate German engineering. Friend and colleague Merkel you may recall is an automotive engineer and designer who is a devoted German and Italian car enthusiast.

You may recall that I owned a foreign car repair shop in Southern California for many years called G & I Automotive (for German and Italian) although we worked on most imports. I’ve owned several German cars including VW, Porsche and Mercedes Benz and I prefer them to most other imports for a long history of craftsmanship of European workers.

High end Italian and British cars in the past tended to be poorly engineered but you gotta love the flair and excitement of great European Art that is exemplified in cars like Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini. And what can I say about Jaguar other than it too is beautifully elegant in design and they have all endured for so many years.

General Information:

Parts – US/Canadian 11 %; Mexico 31%; Germany 16%; Engine and Transmission – Germany. It is assembled in Germany; Classification is Compact. Cars from Volkswagen: Beetle, CC, Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Passat, Routan, Tiguan and Touareg.

Opinion:

Last time I recounted an email from David M about the Diamond lane access. This is just a follow on since someone asked for the references of the CA Vehicle Code sections that deal with the law.

21460 CVC; 21651 CVC; 21655.8 CVC.

If you read this last opinion you will recall the final conclusion was that although half of the officers out there would not ticket for folks crossing over the divider lines ‘off-hours’ but that means it is a toss-up of whether you will suffer a fine of about $500 half of the time – simple law of averages.

Thanks to David M., for his research and opinion and advice.

Handling & Performance:

Solid and confident feel in handling and really fast 170 horsepower turbo hybrid.

Styling:

Nice lines that are relatively conservative, which is good in my opinion. To each his own, but I’m not in love with ‘homely’ and some would say ‘ugly’ of the radical designs becoming more common these days. But some think they have to ‘shock’ us with their designs. Sorry I don’t buy that. I suppose that is the concept of choice and that is why there are so many choices.

Fit and Finish:

VW quality that is typical of German cars.

Cost:

This hybrid is greeeeen and gets great fuel economy at 42-48 mpg, so I temper the few thousand more in purchase price with lower operating costs.

I might note here that the original concerns of the hybrid mechanical complexity is long past as they have been out for a long time and there are not glowing maintenance issues that I have heard about.

I’d be interested in your personal experience if you have a hybrid.

Conveniences and comfort:

It is a very nice car and a comfortable ride. I did however get annoyed with the jerky accelerator and grabby brakes. It was connected with the Hybrid feature that I believe needs work to smooth out both acceleration and braking where the braking action charges the batteries.

One of my favorite features is the keyless entry and push button start. I rarely take the key fob out of my pocket all week long. Great convenience.

Consumer Recommendation:

I am convinced that we should all begin to replace our current gas guzzlers when replacement is called for because the writing is on the wall for escalation in gas prices in the future. Keep in mind that world prices of $8 a gallon is inevitable.

Recognized Competition:

VW Jetta Hybrid SE $27,000, Acura ILX $26,000, BMW 1 Series $31,000, Chevrolet Cruze $18,000, Dodge Avenger $20,000, Ford Focus $24,000, Honda Civic $19,000, Hyundai Elantra $20,000, Mazda 3 $25,000, Mitsubishi Lancer SE $20,000, Nissan Sentra $18,000, Subaru Impreza $20,000, Toyota Corolla $19,000.

Good News:

Outstanding fuel economy, comfortable, perfect size for most of our needs and if you don’t care about fuel use it can be ultra-fast and a pleasure on the road.

Bad News:

Jerky accelerator and grabby braking system (this needs attention by the engineers).

Standard Equipment:

1.4 liter Hybrid 170 horsepower TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) engine, front wheel drive, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brakes, Anti-slip regulation (traction control), electronic stability control, electronic differential lock, 15” alloy wheels, front side and side curtain airbags, LATCH system and rear child door locks, tire pressure monitor, V-tex leatherette seating, touchscreen radio and CD changer, Sirius satellite, climate control, 60/40 split folding rear seat with pass through, cruise control, height adjustable & telescoping steering column, keyless entry and push button start, power windows and locks, heated power mirrors with turn signal indicators, engine immobilizer, trip computer, leather wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and hand brake, MDI / iPod cable.

Gas Stats:

$3.75/ Gal avg. August 30, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

42 City and 48 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,990.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com

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About: Autolove

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