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

1934 Chevy coupe with a Rumble Seat. (953)

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1934 Chevy coupe with a Rumble Seat. (953)

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When you do the math 952 auto reviews translates into just over 18 years of working in the auto industry. From visiting vehicle manufacturing company production lines to attending auto shows, and participating in “ride and drive” events around the country, I’ve written about 1,000,000 words as an automotive journalist.

But we all review cars from a very young age because it has been a symbol of independence and freedom to travel at the drop of a hat. It has been a passion for young men more than it has for the ladies, but we all make it the second most expensive purchase of our lives. Probably like you I began thinking about cars at age 15 when getting a drivers license was looming in the near future. I began getting ready for the big day when I’d be allowed to drive (legally) on the highways.

Dad’s know what goes through a young man’s mind even if you don’t bug them for a car, they are way ahead of you. So it was dad who would help me buy my first car. It was a 1934 Chevy coupe with a rumble seat. It cost $50.00 and I worked scraping and sanding paint or anything else dad really didn’t want to do, to pay him back.

I would drive it up and down the drive way and if the truth be told I took it on the streets close to home to learn how to drive. I missed a shift and broke a tooth off second gear and learned more about the inside of a transmission than I really wanted to, but at the time I had no choice. Learning is nothing more than a lot of mistakes that have to be fixed. This wasn’t the first fix it and it surely wouldn’t be the last.

So I’ve been learning about cars for a very long time and continue to this day since new developments are introduced to new cars every year. I attended the 2012 LA Auto Show to learn what is new in the auto industry. I have attended them professionally for the past 20 years and early in my youth dad would take the entire family to the show back in the 1950s. Let’s be clear, there weren’t a lot of things to choose from to do back then, and we’d already been to the Rodeo. But the car show was a big deal to us then and everyone was interested in this very new industry.

Today the show renews your interest in the cars you’ve driven, are driving and those you would like to drive or own. Being there got me to reflect on all the cars I’ve owned, driven and tested on and off the race track over the years. Visions of Jay Leno’s garage, that is over the top in car collections, includes many of the cars from the very early days of the industry like the Stanley Steamer. From those early attempts at finding a propulsion system all the way to current technology that has been perfected, we know that a new method of transportation is just around the corner. This is the dream of most guys I’m acquainted with. Yep, it is a Guy thing almost exclusively, but I do know one woman who has a car collection.  It was left to her by her dearly departed husband, but she too is a car enthusiast and keenly aware of all the nuances of those old relics of the past.

And as I get older I realize we all become relics of the past. Each of us is simply a generation away from that accomplishment. But I see the same wide eyed excitement of the youth of today when they are about to own their first car. It is still the symbol of freedom to explore and to experience something right down the highway.

Henry W. Longfellow in the last stanza his poem “A Psalm of Life”  that was what the heart of the young man said to the psalmist, “Let us then be up and doing with a heart for any fate, still achieving, still pursuing, learn to labor and to wait”.

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

2013 Mazda5 Grand Touring (954)

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2013 Mazda5 Grand Touring (954)

Overview: 

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Mazda5 Grand Touring midsized crossover 6-seater.

I generally put a lot of miles on all my test cars at about 100 miles plus per day both on the highway and around town. This is a comfortable versatile crossover that looks good. I see it as a great family car for those with a limited budget for automobiles, but still want all the electronics we all seem to need in the 21st Century. And we know that our kids are so in touch with new technology that is the future for them. It is also a fact we spend a lot of time in our cars and kids under driving age must accompany us wherever we go. So having connectivity is more important every day. Not many cars today have wireless connection but that is coming.

Moreover this Mazda 5 is built with all the really important safety features like brake force distribution and stability and traction controls. These features are the hidden or at least not obvious, but important never-the-less. They are ones we should be aware of, understand, and demand them for the safe handling they provide. They are “invisible” until you need them and are in danger of getting out of control. It is then that they kick in and don’t allow you to make a big mistake. This Mazda has it all and it is all included in the MSRP price. I rather appreciate when they include all that neat stuff that we shouldn’t do without.

General Information: 

Parts from the US / Canada 0%, Japan 95%. It is assembled in Japan, Classification is Midsize. Cars from Mazda: Mazda 2,3,5,6, MazdaSpeed3, CX5, 7, 9, Mx5 Miata, RX-8 & Tribute.

Opinions and Observations:

I spend a lot of time on the road and observe, as you do I’m sure, how much we see the CHP issuing tickets. That, to me, is a sign the state needs revenue and the CHP needs the revenue to protect their jobs. Yes, they are back again but you know as well as I do, they are not here in a role of HIGHWAY PATROL that is ostensibly there to serve us who pay them. You won’t notice them remove debris from the road to keep us safe. Nope – we must be ever diligent at 70 MPH to avoid the danger we pay the CHP to remove and thus dodge and swerve in danger maneuvers around tires, ladders, bumpers and all manner of junk. Now THAT is a danger they seem to ignore, while they sit along the roadside with their “impressive” radar guns to be sure you don’t exceed the posted speed limits.

So I say to the CHP we know your presence is not to protect and serve but to be the instrument of “tax collection” for a wasteful, out of control, government. Me – I’d rather see us lay off a bunch of those “Highway Patrol persons” – because we the people just can’t afford them.

So this is a friendly reminder to all you drivers to be smarter than the problem and slow down and pay attention to what you are doing out there on the highway. Then you can avoid yet another hidden tax in the use of the highways.

The exception is: If you are driving and texting or touching up your lip gloss I think you know you deserve those fines because you endanger all of the rest of us. $300 to $1,000 fines – I’m not sure how excessive they are even if they are arbitrary.

Handling & Performance:

I enjoyed zipping around town which is where we spend most of our driving time while at the same time it is a great commuter that is comfortable even for longer trips. I never wanted for or felt the engine was laboring. But if you want neck breaking acceleration you won’t be happy if you expect 0-60 mph in less than 9.5 seconds.

Styling:

Nicely designed with flowing lines that work. They also included lots of thoughtful features that everyone in the family will appreciate.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Priced right considering all the standard features.

Conveniences and comfort:

Outstanding in class with well thought out design for seating 6 people.

Consumer Recommendation:

Look at some of the more expensive competitors I’ve included below and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised you can do better for your transportation dollar.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda 5 $24,000, Honda Fit $20,000, Kia Soul $17,000, Ford Transit Connect $22,000, and some other close competitors a step up in price that are worthy of comparison: Kia Sorento $24-34,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $24-38,000, Toyota Venza $29-40,000, Honda Crosstour $29-38,000, Ford Escape $23-31,000, Chevy Equinox $25-33,000.

Good News:

Effectively competes with some upper classmates, well priced, great around town and open road midsize car that seats 6.

Bad News:

A little less fuel efficiency than is common in today’s world because growing gas prices will only go higher. It seats 6 but it will be a little tight most noticeable on those longer trips.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 157 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, front wheel drive, 17” alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers, rear wiper with washer, 6-passenger seating, 2nd row captain chairs with under seat storage and fold out table, 50/50 split fold sown 3rd row seats, leather heated front seats 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with EBD (electronic brake force distribution), electronic power assist steering, traction control, stability control, front and side curtain airbags all three rows, tire pressure monitor, independent front and rear suspension, auto headlights, rear lift gate with spoiler, climate control, 2nd row vents, audio with Sirius sat radio, USB audio input, Bluetooth phone and audio system, power windows and locks, power moon roof, remote keyless entry, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, tilt and telescopic steering column,

Gas Stats:

$3.41 / Gal avg. December 31, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

22 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $24,470.

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

2008 Kia Sorento EX 4X4

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2008 Kia Sorento EX 4X4

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Kia Sorento EX 4X4 SUV. I could find no real difference between cars in this class. The only drawback is the badge, and then only a problem for some. It’s a Kia and some folks are anxious to spend more money to impress their friends. I mean like really, why do we need a BMW, or a Lexus badge? Does it make us more important or more successful? And if I were on the hunt for chicks I wouldn’t stop with a BMW – I would go back to the Porsche or Lamborghini I drove in my younger days. Brother John made a statement with his Daytona Ferrari.

Moral of the story is drive the car that fits your need, want, wish or dream. Live it! And if you don’t care about all that – buy the Kia and go on a European cruise with the money you save. Venice is nice this time of year. Take a friend or your wife/husband if you friend can’t make it.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 4%, Korea 86%

Assembly – Korea

Class:  – SUV

Cars: – Amanti, Borego, Optima, Rio, Rondo, Sedona, Sorento, Spectra & Sportage.

Handling & Performance:

Estimated fuel cost is not stellar at an average annual cost of $2,470 based on 15,000 miles at $2.80 per gallon. I suspect gas prices are going back there, so now’s the time to take that into consideration.

Styling:

Pretty standard… yeah but that’s the point. This is a Kia from Korea! Why don’t they look like Asian cars? Why do they look so American? Are we really the last word in design? Should we be? I for one would like to see some original thoughts and ideas and not just a clone of what American car companies think cars should look like. These are just “Knock-Offs” of what the US invented. Isn’t that illegal like my friends Rolex watch for $100 that looks and feels “EXACTLY” like the real thing for over $5,000?

Fit and Finish:

Not too bad for the money and better than some at much more money.

Cost:

Competitively priced in this class.

Conveniences and comfort:

Kia has included all the things I would expect for the money.

Consumer Recommendation:

You can’t ignore the cost savings of a product built in such a favorable labor market. Take a look – it will be worth your time and consideration.

Recognized Competition:

Kia Sorento $21-27,000, Isuzu Ascender $27-29,000, Hummer H3 $33-43,000, Saturn Vue $23-31,000, Saturn Outlook $31-36,000, Mercury Mariner $23-28,000, Mercury Mountaineer $29-35,000, Toyota RAV4 $22-28,000, Chevrolet Equinox $24-31,000, Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000, Mazda Tribute $20-28,000, Honda CR-V $21-29,000, Ford Escape $20-28,000, Ford Edge $27-36,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $20-26,000, Jeep Liberty $23-27,000, Dodge Durango $28-40,000, Dodge Nitro $22-29,000.

Good News:

Looks like, feels like, and drives like the competition and for less money. If you can get past the badge it will service your need for less.

Bad News:

Image may be a problem for some.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 262 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, power rack & pinion steering, front airbags with driver knee airbag and full length side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring system, air conditioning, power windows locks and mirrors, audio with steering wheel controls & CD/MP3, 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support, 60/40 split folding rear seats with armrest, remote keyless entry, leather steering wheel with tilt, trip computer with compass & temperature, rear cargo cover & tie downs and under floor storage, lift gate with flip up glass, defroster, wiper washer, roof rails, fog lights, privacy glass, underbody skid plates, full size alloy spare, trailer hitch wiring with sub-harness connector.

Options:Body cladding & wheel arches, machined 16” alloy wheels, sunroof, leather seating, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, auto headlights, upgraded audio with 6-disc in-dash CD/MP3, full time torque on demand 4WD and rear spoiler – $3,200.

Gas Stats:

$1.99/ Gal avg. Jan 31, ‘09

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

15 City and 20 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,195. With Options $29,395.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan

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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan. The overall feeling is that for the money it is a well rounded sedan.

Models available included a DE at $14K, ES at $16k and the GTS at under $18K all with 2 liter 152 hp engines. It is an advanced technology engine that includes variable valve timing found on more expensive engines and it and the transmission is warranted for 10 years or 100,000 miles.

General Info:

Parts – Japan 100%

Assembly – Mizushima, Japan

Class:  – SubCompact

Cars: – Eclipse, Endeavor, Galant, Lancer, Outlander and Raider.

Observation:

What’s this thing about car owners putting black out on their cars windows? Is it legal? I don’t like being behind a tall truck or SUV when I’m not in a large vehicle. Likewise I don’t like being behind a coupe or sedan with blacked out rear windows for the same reason… it limits my view through the car to traffic in front of it. I really don’t care who is in the car but I am put at greater risk of rear end collision when I can’t see traffic ahead. So I have to change lanes or go around that vehicle.

Handling & Performance:

Better than average handling and feel on the Crest test mountain course. The engine is responsive with 0-60 mph at 8.66 seconds. More importantly it negotiated the curves like a pro and I felt in control and safe. Drivers will appreciate the manual transmission but if you prefer an automatic is available as an option on all models.

Styling:

Aggressive.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Very good for a 4-door roomy sedan and a decent array of standard features.

Conveniences and comfort:

The armrest is a bit low and more flimsy than I’d expect even at this price car. If you don’t like high trunk openings this will be a negative for you.

Consumer Recommendation:

A decent family sedan that is roomy and is a 5 passenger vehicle. The trunk is fairly large and styling is nice for any destination. And you won’t break the bank. It is among a good crowd of competitors so the good news is there are many choices; the bad news is you need to look at a lot of them because there are several good ones. Don’t leave the made in America Saturn and Chevrolet. Both real solid contenders.

Recognized Competition:

Mitsubishi Lancer $14-18,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Suzuki Aerio $14-17,000, Subaru Impreza $18-33,000, Nissan Sentra $15-20,000, Volkswagen Jetta $17-23,000, Scion tC $17,000, Mazda 3 $14-20,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-19,000, Toyota Corolla $14-16,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000, Hyundai Elantra $14-16,000.

Good News:

Nice styling, nice ride, roomy, good size trunk and only 87 octane fuel required.

Bad News:

High trunk opening, general resale is not as good as more popular Japanese names like Toyota and Nissan.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter Inline 4-cylinder 152 hp engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front and side air bags and side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag, front crumple zones, child safety locks, and latch system for child seats, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer with anti-theft alarm system, power steering, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with EBD – electronic brake distribution, front and rear stabilizer bars, air conditioning, steering wheel mounted cruise control and audio switches, height adjustable steering column,  6-way driver adjustable seat, 60/40split fold down rear seatback with center armrest, power windows, locks and mirrors, variable wipers, remote keyless entry, auto halogen headlights and 16” alloy wheels.

Options: Sun and sound package includes 650 watt Rockford-Fosgate punch sound system with 9 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio with 6-months included and power glass sunroof ($1,500).

Gas Stats:

$2.85/ Gal avg. Sept 25, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

21 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $15,990.

2008 Scion xD 5-door Wagon

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2008 Scion xD 5-door Wagon

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 ‘Preproduction’ Scion xD 5-door subcompact Wagon that replaces the xA. It should be available in showrooms early this fall and is worth looking at. It is a big improvement over the prior xA and others that were flat ‘ugly’. If I were a mother I wouldn’t claim it as my child – know what I mean – drop it at the dog shelter and forget to reclaim it. But finally, with the ‘08 release of the xD, it begins to look like a normal child.

Friend Merkel, my automotive engineer friend, notes that a new wave of interest in “Green” sensitive cars are becoming popular even in super rich communities where top of the line Mercedes, Lexus, BMW and the like were standard fare for those folks.

One has to wonder if it isn’t the new approach to flaunting wealth since they can have any car they want to drive but are becoming more conscious of waste in general that contributes to Global Warming. Me – I don’t believe in that global warming pitch from the likes of Al Gore. I think they have other agenda’s and aren’t really honest. I believe that because there are just as many scientists that insist our contribution to atmospheric problems is so miniscule as to be laughable. Stephen E. Blewett, Phd from Cal Tech, and Stanford undergrad work wrote “The Ozone Myth” that made sense to me.

Anyway I hope those Prius buyers in Palos Verdes and other upscale communities don’t believe my views and continue to buy “Green” in record numbers. Hey, what could it hurt and it would likely make us less dependent on Middle East oil. That will allow those OPEC countries to sell to China with its voracious appetite for oil at this singular time in history.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Japan

Class:  – Subcompact Cars

Cars: – Scion tC, xB and xD.

Handling & Performance:

The new 2008 finally sports a bit more horsepower at 128 versus 103 from the previous 4-cylinder. But you do sacrifice a few miles per gallon in a time when 10% decrease compounded with a rising cost of fuel becomes more significant to many. However you’ll need to consider part of the drop results from new government EPA mileage calculations.

Make no mistake however this rides nice but is not for the guy or gal who loves to drive and place a lot of value on performance. This is a basic commuter and it does that just fine. You just won’t expect to get all excited to get out and ‘drive’.

Styling:

The xD looks new and improved but it also sits on a new platform this year – the Camry. Thus it is heavier, has a larger engine and adds more safety features.

Fit and Finish:

Well, this is a $15,000 car so you wouldn’t expect Lexus or Toyota brand high end price and quality. But you would expect better than average assembly that is consistent with the brand generally – and you wouldn’t be disappointed.

Cost:

Affordable is a terrible word because it tells you it isn’t expensive or to others that it is cheap without the ‘tramp stamp’. But it is targeted at the youthful driver in style and affordability.

Conveniences and comfort:

Quite good frankly for the price but the real good stuff like traction control and Vehicle Stability Control are optional.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you want more fuel economy and about the same space and power consider another Toyota product. The Yaris S is worthy of comparison even if lower priced.

Recognized Competition:

Scion xD $15,350,  VW Rabbit $15-17,000, Ford Focus $14-17,000, Chevrolet Aveo5 $10-13,000, Honda Fit $14-16,000, Dodge Caliber $14-20,000, Toyota Yaris $11-14,000, Hyundai Accent $10-14,000, Nissan Versa $13-15,000, Suzuki SX4 $15-16,000, Kia Rio5 $13,750.

Good News:

Improved design that is a real face lift, good fuel economy, 25 more horsepower than prior year and it’s a Toyota product which will influence a lot of people.

Bad News:

Sun visors don’t extend, low horsepower will strain on the hills, …for Scion is the fact there is a lot of great competition and therefore it will make your purchase decision more difficult.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 128 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, front wheel drive, air conditioning, cruise control, front air bags, front side airbags with front and rear side curtain airbags, front bucket seats, 60/40 split folding reclining rear seat, intermittent wiper, 4-wheel ABS Electronic Brake Distribution brake system with brake assist, halogen headlights, audio system with CD, iPod compatibility, six speakers, power door locks, outside mirrors with turn signal, power windows with one touch driver side, rear window defogger, rear wiper, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel with audio controls, tire pressure monitor system. Optional: VSC – Vehicle Stability Control and Traction control.

Gas Stats:

$2.85/ Gal avg. August ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

26 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $15,350.

2008 Smart Car fortwo Cabriolet

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2008 Smart Car fortwo Cabriolet
Overview:

This week you’re going to be amazed by a new car to the US but one that has been sold in 36 countries for the last 10 years. The Smart Car or Smart fortwo is sure to be a repeat of the 1960s love affair with the VW Beetle/ Bug that should sweep the country like a fire storm.

Whether you consider buying one of the three models – the Pure, the Passion or the Cabriolet you’ll be fascinated and I believe shocked that something this small can seem so big. While attending the very first introduction in the US of this smart addition to the cars we can drive today I went from major skeptic to a born again believer about this wonderfully designed two seater cars. Really, you have to check it out. On line you can go to www.smartusa.com and learn more about this little marvel.

Look for the $99 reservation option and the car will begin delivery in January.

Trust me; this will be the surprise of the century for efficient and responsible cars in the coming years until the fuel cell car is ready for our consumption. GM will head up that push for the newest. Then when they have developed it the Japanese and Germans can copy it. Thanks to American ingenuity our car makers will launch us into the future of transportation. In the meantime these more conventional modes of transportation will have to do and be all the rage.

These are the hottest thing in Europe in particular and the Romans have gobbled up over 50,000 of them to date, partly because you can park two of them in a standard parking space in the US.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – France

Class:  – Economy

Car Models: – Pure, Passion & Cabriolet

Handling & Performance:

All the things I thought were sure to be all wrong with this little car I was convinced by the German engineers how they have adjusted to and solved the problems like ‘roll over’ concerns. The height of the car stayed the same but they widened the track from early versions to provide more stability.

Friend Merkel is still concerned with high speed on the freeway travel. But after I tested this car at speeds of 70 mph I was satisfied I’d feel comfortable driving the freeways in most metropolitan cities. Why, because you seldom have the chance to go that fast.

The European version is diesel powered and gets over 70 mpg. The US version required a gas engine and promises 35-45 mpg. They suspect the next power plant will be a hybrid since we are unlikely to see clean diesel any time soon in the US. For the rest of the world they’ll enjoy even more low cost transportation.

Styling:

Simple while complex. The engine is a modular design and with four bolts the entire module drops down for service. All fluids are maintained from a front access panel where you’d expect to see the hood.

The design was the product of Mercedes Benz in Irvine California about a decade ago, so Smart marketing people plug the fact this car is finally coming home.

There was a Smart for four but it didn’t make money and was discontinued along with a sport car adaptation.

Fit and Finish:

Well done.

Cost:

The Pure is priced at $11,590, the Passion starts at $13,590 and the Cabriolet begins at $16,590. The Smart fortwo will be sold 2/3 through attached but not an integral part of Mercedes Benz dealerships. 1/3 will be stand alone dealerships connected with Penske.

Conveniences and comfort:

The Cabriolet convertible top is unique in that you can put it down and up at any speed.

Consumer Recommendation:

You can go on line at www.smartusa.com and for $99 you can reserve yours. When you are able to test drive it, the tall folks will be amazed at how it accommodates most of us.  You may want to consider as I have to buy one for those short trips around town to the market, shopping or the hardware store, etc.

Some may want to buy one for the kids – Christmas, anniversaries at a cost less than a motorcycle.

Competition:

Well there is no competition really but the closest car would be the Mini Cooper

$18-25,000, which is a 1.6 liter 4 cylinder engine that promises 30-40 miles per gallon.

Good News:

Low cost to buy and operate. Ample cargo area for two to travel, shop etc.

Bad News:

Seating for two only, travel under 70 mph.

Standard Equipment:

1 liter 3-cylinder engine, 5 speed auto trans with manual shift (no clutch) operation, 15” steel wheels, fold flat passenger seat, radio ready (radio is standard on other models), dual air bags front and side, electronic stability program, ABS brake system with Elect. Brake force distribution, child tether system, remote keyless entry, front and rear washer wiper with defroster, electric tailgate release and more.

Note: some optional items are offered that won’t add a lot for the conveniences you may want even on the base model.

Gas Stats:

$3.10/ Gal avg. November 2, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

40 City and 45 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $11,590 – 13,590 and 19,590.

LA Auto Show (951)

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LA Auto Show (951)

Overview: 

This week the auto industry met in Los Angeles to show off the new cars for 2013. The first two days are strictly for the Press. The public will see mostly the same things through the weekend and December 2nd.  The media folks attend press conferences and unveiling of new product that have been under wraps until the wall opens or the curtain comes down. Sometime they have celebrities introduce the new car or truck like Jay Leno.

Well, for me I have been disappointed by the slow growth of the industry that has been wanting for big strides in technological breakthroughs. Until there is a miracle in terms of cars that fly or a transporter is developed to “beam me up – Scotty” it will have to be business as usual.

Concept car of the 1950s

That being said, there are some pretty good indicators that the industry is progressing more quickly for some, for the followers of futuristic series on TV like  “Buck Rogers”, or for kids, a couple of decades earlier, who watched “The Jetson’s”  (1962 through 1988), we’re expecting car makers to leap ahead far more quickly than ‘reality’ allows.

I too am impatient for the future. About 7 years ago I tested and wrote a review on the “Hy Wire” Hydrogen Fuel Cell powered car by GM. Finally, I thought, we’re on the move in the life cycle of cars and soon there will be exciting revelations as there were in the early 1950s. My parents took the entire family to the LA Auto Show where I recall vividly watching a video (film) of the future of automobiles. They showed how cars would drive themselves via a copper strip down the middle of each lane to guide you to your destination off ramp. There were towers along the highway where control folks would watch and control the flow of traffic. Wow, you couldn’t help but be excited and wide eyed in amazement on what was being shown. Surely it would be right around the corner. Well, in the real world, after all is said and done, much is said and little is done.

Ok, so here’s the scoop according to Jim Lentz, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, who gave the mornings Keynote Address November 28, 2012 at the LA Convention Center’s West Hall. It was titled “The Auto Industry: Architects of the Future”.

Jim was quite right in saying “the auto industry is the largest manufacturing sector in the US” and probably in the world, I might add. It truly has shaped America as much or more than the Railroads did earlier in the 19thCentury. But even those two transportation methods took a long-long time to evolve. George Washington said “True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation. So too is any worthwhile achievement. The auto industry is a great combination of achievements from a human spirit of indomitable pursuit.

Jim talked about some current trends in the economy and then told us of some fun and interesting developments being worked on at Toyota. But before he did, he pointed out there are more than 245 Million cars in the US with a record high average age of 11 years. And 20% are over 16 years old. That tells me that there is a lot of deferred maintenance and a fear of jumping into a new monthly payment. What it told Jim is that “there are a lot of positives helping drive optimism and sales, and all automakers are showing revitalized momentum”.

Some of that revitalization comes from gadget technology that keep us ‘connected’ to our world while driving. “The key is to make that connectivity ‘SAFE’” he said. All one needs to do is watch how drivers think they can text, call, get directions to a destination like a gas station, restaurant or whatever, all via the screen on the dash, an iPad or iPhone. That connectivity means that you are distracted from keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Car makers are working to overcome the distractions with new developing technologies including: Kinect Motion/ Sensor Software so you’ll raise or lower your hand to control the throttle or volume on the audio system, or even open the doors. It may mean that the vehicle will swerve on its own to avoid a pedestrian stepping out in front of the car.  Voice Recognition so you can control various functions of the car while staying “connected” with the matter of ‘driving the car’. In addition to motion and voice sensing Behavior Predictions are being developed to have the car watch for traffic and pedestrians to predict and avoid accidents given circumstances like slowing traffic, drifting out of lane, or avoiding objects behind or around the car, etc. A Virtual Agent would communicate with the driver, set the destination and, operate various other functions of the car. Eventually Pre-collision systems such as “lane Keeping” and “automatic parking” will become standard equipment on all cars.

Perhaps the most interesting new feature is what they call Invisibility Cloaking. That will take the back-up camera to a new dimension as researchers at the Keio University in Japan have developed an optical camouflage technology making the back seat seem invisible in order to eliminate blind spots. The cloaking is making use of reflective materials that captures footage from cameras and then projects the images onto the cloak visible to the driver giving the illusion of invisibility of the outer shell of the car. One of the developers said it will feel like you’re driving a glass car.

Future developments in electric technology include a “Next Generation Battery for much longer charge life and Wireless Battery Charging to eliminate the current need to use wire cable to plug in at home or while parking  at the office.

Although such developments are slow in coming, from the consumer’s perspective, the industry says improvements in technology are made, on average, every 6 months. That, thanks to partnerships with Microsoft and others.

I don’t know about you, but I’m waiting to be ‘dazzled’ by some real leaps into the future of automobiles that will be a small step for man and a giant leap for mankind.

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

2013 Hyundai Elantra GT M/T (950)

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2013 Hyundai Elantra GT M/T (950)

Overview: 

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT M/T for Touring Manual Transmission.

It seems inevitable that when a car company gains a level of success and a consumer following more body styles, like this Elantra GT are sure to be introduced. So this 2013 is all new this year. And I say bravo since Hyundai is not only the newest kid on the block, it is the best looking and most impressive of car companies in a very long time.

Blue Link system is the best of technology for the future of driving assistance and although it is a subscription service it has some interesting features you may want to give a try. Perhaps the most interesting to me is the “Fence or Curfew and Speed Alert” feature where you can lay down the rules for your teen age new driver. Then you are notified if the defined area or speed or a curfew time, for example is exceeded. Some of the other features you may be interested in, that are included is a POI (point of interest) search, voice text messaging and location sharing, theft recovery that takes over after you alert police of the theft so blue link can slow the vehicle or lock the car and prevent it from starting if it is not already running, and Remote Access allows you to lock or unlock the car from any distance, should you forget if you locked the car. You simply go to a smart phone application to do it remotely. The daily route guidance system is programmed with traffic information so you can be directed around the problem with an alternate route.

It is clear from all the press conferences I’ve attended that these kind of technological features are an extension of your computer and smart phone capability and are rapidly being included in our cars. Hyundai seems to be one of the companies that is leading the way.

General Information: 

Parts from the US / Canada 2%; Korea 95%. It is assembled in Ulasn, Korea, Classification is Small Wagon. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Equus, Genesis, Genesis Coupe, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Tucson, Veloster, Veracruz.

Handling & Performance:

The hatchback is smaller than the 4-door sedan overall, except it is one inch taller. The size makes it a great around town car. However it is also very capable on the highway with the added advantage of delivering great mileage that approaches 40 miles per gallon.

Styling:

The Elantra GT is another example of Hyundai’s typical sculptured design. They have integrated a lot of great features and interior versatility that a hatchback should include. From the compacts to the Equus model they are a nice looking family of siblings. They continue to impress the public at large and have rocketed to the top of the consumer charts. I’m one of the cheer leaders because I’ve had a lot of seat time on and off the track. Job well done goes to the Hyundai design team.

Fit and Finish:

Assembly is consistent with all other Hyundai offerings that are all very good.

Cost:

All models are well priced and highly competitive with even the far more pricey badges like Mercedes, Lexus, Audi and BMW. Everyone I’ve talked with have begun putting their money with their mouth is. They’ve turned from just being impressed to being a consumer. My brother-in-law just bought the Elantra, and my “best man” who can afford any car made opted for the Equus that is a very impressive luxury car.

Conveniences and comfort:

Well appointed and generally a comfortable ride that is roomy in front and the rear legroom is respectable by small car standards.

Consumer Recommendation:

Hyundai is simply “Hot” at all levels and the prices are good and can only go up over time. Definitely this is a MUST include in your search for a compact hatchback or wagon. You won’t do any better with fuel economy. This is yet another winner for Hyundai.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Elantra , Ford Focus,

Mazda 3, and Subaru Impreza.

Good News:

Priced well, well made, great styling and a great ride.

Bad News:

None noted

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 148 horsepower 4 cylinder engine with continuous variable valve timing, 6-speed manual transmission, electronic stability control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist and  electronic brake force distribution, front and front side and side curtain air bags with driver knee airbag, tire pressure monitor, 16” alloy wheels, front fog lights, air conditioning, audio with Sirius XM, CD and MP3 with 6-speakers, iPod/USB and Auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth phone system with voice recognition, Hyundai Blue Link system (subscription required) for ‘stay connected’ via in-car web, smartphone apps., remote keyless entry, power windows, locks and heated mirrors, trip computer, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, tilt and telescopic steering column, heated front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seat, rear center armrest with cup holders,

Gas Stats:

$3.45 / Gal avg. December 16, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

26 City and 37 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $18,395.

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

2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek (949)

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2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek (949)

Overview: 

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek that is all new this year. It is a 5 door crossover that is roomy and overall it is very comfortable. The cargo space was adequate, but I  had the occasion to load a wheel chair for a 95 year old grandma and it barely fit, but awkwardly and it consumed the entire space. Ok, so how often will you need to take grandma with a wheel chair somewhere, right? Actually the roof rails would have worked. Leave grandma in the chair and strap her to the roof … like in one of the National Lampoon’s Vacation series with Chevy Chase, for you movie buffs.

Or would it be better if you put the kids up there (instead of Grandma), with their iPhones and video games. They are so consumed by their digital life they wouldn’t know the difference. Come-on you know what I mean. God forbid that those same kids are given the keys to the car – texting and playing games while at the wheel? Really!

Although it is not likely it will ever get “Off Road” it is still capable to do so. They’ve done a good job balancing road clearance. XV comes in two models – Premium and Limited with different options.

General Information: 

Parts from the US / Canada n/a, Japan n/a. It is assembled in Japan, Classification is Compact / Crossover.Cars from Subaru: BRZ, Forester, Impreza, Impreza WRX, Legacy, Outback, Tribeca, XV Crosstrek.

Handling & Performance:

All wheel drive always (for Subaru) is comforting to drive and there is little or no slipping of the wheels relative to a two wheel drive car. The Boxer engine description is just to say that the pistons in this internal combustion engine lie flat or horizontally opposed. More importantly, it develops 148 horsepower which is just right for this 5 passenger car. It has surprisingly quick off the line and at highway cruising speed it is nicely responsive for passing.

Styling:

It is a new car for 2013 but it is pretty ‘generic’ in styling for most SUV offerings.

Fit and Finish:

Subaru’s are always well assembled. Remember the early days of automobiles when even the best of them didn’t fit together well but it wasn’t expected. You were just happy to have wheels, and that was true as recent as the 1970s when cars didn’t run all that well anyway so how well the seams fit was the least of their worries.

 Cost:

If you consider all you get standard in the Subaru this Crosstrek is priced very well. AWD (all wheel drive) is a big thing, costs a lot and provides a degree of safety on the road, the benefit of which can’t be discounted. Few cars have perfected AWD as well as Subaru and ALL Subaru’s are AWD.

Conveniences and comfort:

This Premium is well equipped with all the features I come to expect in today’s world of cars. By comparison, my first VW Bug in the 1970s had heater outlets on the base board in the rear and that was a point of discussion. Wow, that was cool, and that was the only feature other than it had a radio with push buttons no less. It was a comfort just to know it would start and you would get where you were going eventually. Cars today spoil the heck out of us, so there is little to complain about.

Consumer Recommendation:

The cars in class are all so close in price that it is safe to say consumers will fall back and buy based on their past personal experience. I encourage you to look at new or different brands than you have relied on when you’re ready to search for your next car. Korean made Hyundai is particularly interesting to me along with its sister company Kia. Smart (Mercedes Benz made) is considered competition in this grouping but I don’t consider it in this field. Chevrolet is also worth a long look.

Of the most similar noted here, the Outlander Sport is also AWD and the others are FWD.

Recognized Competition:

Subaru XV Crosstrek $22,000, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport $22,000, Ford Escape $22,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $23,000.

Good News:

Roomy, comfortable, responsive and good fuel economy (one consumer said he got 37 mpg highway).

Bad News:

Limited cargo space if you have 4 passengers.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 4-cylinder 148 horsepower Boxer engine, all wheel drive,

17” aluminum alloy wheels, dynamic control, continuous variable transmission, heated front seats and mirrors, wiper de-icer, privacy glass, tilt /telescoping steering wheel with controls for audio, cruis control and Bluetooth, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist, Roof rails, 12 v outlets in dash and console, O/S temp gauge with road surface freeze indicator, power windows and locks.

Gas Stats:

$3.77 / Gal avg. November 27, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

25 City and 33 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $21,995.

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

2013 Mazda2 Touring MT (948)

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2013 Mazda2 Touring MT (948)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Mazda2 Touring MT. Small, cheap? Smaller for Mazda is the MX-5 Miata. This Mazda 2 has a rear seat, and it fits 5 average size people comfortably. They make good use of the space and it even has decent cargo area. Amazing how much they can get into a small outside dimension car. Cheap – yes and the fuel economy is very good at up to 35 mpg.

If you impress your friends with this car, they are really wise and grounded and you have chosen your friends wisely.

It is a low weight vehicle and only has 100 horsepower but you will be surprised how well it uses that power. I never considered it a negative for me on my commute and I felt safe and stable all the time.

General Information:

Parts from the US / Canada 0%, Japan 95%. It is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan, Classification is Compact. Cars from Mazda: Mazda 2,3,5,6, MazdaSpeed3, CX5, 7,9, Mx5 Miata, RX-8 & Tribute.

Handling & Performance:

It is a delight to zip around town in, and on the open road highway it performs well and you will go a lot of miles as inexpensively as it gets these days. The 5-speed manual transmission is easy to shift and is the reason it performs so well on 100 horsepower. An automatic transmission is available for those who don’t like manual transmissions. I didn’t test the auto trans but saw no real drawback with the manual.

Styling:

“Pea Popper” is the first impression for me at first sight. But there are smaller cars like the Mercedes Benz Smart Car that will only seat 2. The design of small compact cars is amazing how they can give the feeling it is larger than the obvious small outside shell. Simply a no-nonsense car to get you from point A to B. It won’t win any beauty contest with me but it won’t pick your pocket either. It is as low maintenance as they get. The pretty ones will not only pick your pocket they will break your heart.

Fit and Finish:

Very good in class.

Cost:

All around – great value with prices starting at about $15,000. The field of competition is very close in price.

Conveniences and comfort:

A lot of standard convenience features as well as those that enhance safe driving with such things as Stability and Traction control. I think every car these days should be equipped with Hands Free Bluetooth but for the money I could buy a portable device.

Consumer Recommendation:

Small cars concern some but that is over-played. I have driven ‘em all and recommend you test drive this car that seats 5 relatively comfortably. I wouldn’t hesitate taking it on a long trip but then I’ve taken a vacation for the week in a Corvette with wife and two small kids. In comparison this is an SUV.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda 2 $16,000, Chevrolet Aveo $12,000, Chevrolet Sonic $14,000, Ford Fiesta $16,000, Honda Fit $15,000, Hyundai Accent $15,000, Hyundai Veloster $17,000, Kia Rio $14,000, Mitsubishi i $29,000, Nissan Versa $15,000, Scion iQ $15,000, Scion xD $15,000, Smart fortwo $12,000, Toyota Prius c $19,000, Toyota Yaris $14,000.

Good News:

Spacious interior in a compact, that gets up to 35 mpg, fun to drive.

Bad News:

Light small car that some will be uncomfortable from a perceived safety point of view.

Standard Equipment:

1.5 liter 100 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, stability and traction control systems, front side and side curtain airbags, 16” alloy wheels, rear window defogger and wiper, rear roof spoiler, 5-passenger seating, tilt leather steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, cloth seats, air conditioning, 12 volt outlet, power ABS front disc and rear drum braking system with Electronic Brake Distribution, anti-theft engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitor, power steering, power mirrors, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, auxiliary audio jack and USB, audio with 6 speakers, trip computer and LATCH system.

Gas Stats:

$3.67 / Gal avg. November 20, 2012

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

29 City and 35 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,210.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2012 – An Automotive Love Affair

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