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

2019 Lexus LS 500

29-05-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Lexus LS 500

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Lexus LS 500 luxury class sedan that represents the best of Japanese workmanship. And good cars don’t come cheap. But for those who are inclined to such quality and are accustomed to this class car the things I think of, like the price of gas and more expensive repair and maintenance, but they don’t give that much weight.

If it is in your automotive budget, you’ll surely want to test drive this one. And yes, you may have heard it ranks 5th in Super Luxury Cars but I thought it worthier.
This test car as appointed would set you back over $115,000. I think it is beautiful and to me that Trump’s some of the offsets with its competition.

General Information: Assembly: Tahara, Aichi, Japan; Classification is Midsize; Vehicles from Lexus: ES, GS, GX, IS, LC, LS, LX, NX, RC, RX, UX.

Handling & Performance:
The LS is a delight to drive and edges out Audi A8 when it comes to performance but lags slightly behind the BMW 7 Series.

The kicker, for me, who owned a high-end repair facility, experience tells me the LS beats out Audi and BMW hands down when it comes to cost of repairs. And when it comes to the #1 rated Alfa Romeo Giulia, the very good Mercedes AMG C Class, all would likely drain your wallet faster than the Lexus LS. Just say’n.

I tested the Hybrid version, so fuel economy is better by 5 mpg at 28 combined mpg. I know, you don’t care about the cost of gas but if it rises to world prices we’ll all pucker up a bit.

Styling:
I would agree with critics that even though it is ranked lower it has a great cabin design and excellent interior quality. Some say Extravagant, and perhaps you’d agree, but I’d like to think of it as just a very special automobile. The photos include a setting in one of the most beautiful settings in the famous poppy fields in southern California.

Fit and Finish:
Special

Cost:
You get what you pay for.

Conveniences and comfort:
One of the common complaints of Lexus is its less than friendly technology choices. I must agree and specifically there is a need for Lexus to look into changing the touch pad to maneuver around audio and other apps. It is simply too distracting in large part because the controls are overly sensitive, and you’ll find your eyes are drawn away from the road. I hope the manufacturer does look more closely at this feature because it is my experience in talking with other automotive journalists is that too many agree.

Consumer Recommendation:
Overall, I give the nod, in the competition, to Lexus even though I’m more inclined to the Korean cars these days. Genesis is a favorite and the Kia K900 should be considered too even if it is less expensive than the rest.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	Country of Origin
Lexus LS 500	Japan
Audi A8	Germany
BMW 7 Series	Germany
Mercedes Benz AMG S-Class	Germany
Alfa Romeo Giulia	Italy
Genesis G90	Korea
Porsche Panamera	Germany

Good News:
Lovely luxury car, powerful and a hybrid to boot, an overall delightful car.

Bad News:
n/a

Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 354 hp V6 Hybrid system, totally loaded with all my favorite features for the MSRP noted. However, with high level upgrades available and included on my test vehicle, it added over $30,000 all of which I could do without. If I had oodles of money in my budget for more, you can bet the farm I would get it all. You decide based on how deep your pockets go.

Gas Stats:
25 City and 33 Highway MPG

$3.89 / Gal avg. May 26, 2019

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

Pricing:
MSRP $79,000.

2019 Toyota C-HR

27-05-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Toyota C-HR

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Toyota C-HR that is a very nice option and has even been ranked in the top ten in class. But notice that USA products are coming back and are number 1 and 2 in ranking by a reliable source (KBB).

Another cool growing feature is the CarPlay capability. You’ll find the screen lights up with what’s on your smart phone, the iPhone presentation is pictured in my grouping of photos.

General Information: Assembly:Isawa, Iwatre, Japan; Classification is Compact Cars; Vehicles from Toyota: 4Runner, 86, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid,C-HR, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Mirai, Prius, Prius C, Prius Prime, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma Access Cab, Tacoma Double Cab, Tundra CrewMax, Tundra Double Cab, Yaris and Yaris iA.

Handling & Performance:
Easy handling always a part of this segment of the automotive market. Performance is good at 144 horsepower, but many would opt for a Turbo powered for engines of 2.0 liters or less. A personal preference for me.

Styling:
Well, it is apparent the designer was a Star Wars enthusiast. If that white paint model doesn’t look like a Storm Trooper I’ll eat your hat, as the adage goes.

Fit and Finish:
Toyota quality is nearly indisputable by most automotive journalists, and that goes for all Toyota models. After all these years Toyota management seems to have remained dedicated to staying at the top of the heap of car makers.

Cost:
When it comes to cost, you’ll pay a little more for a Toyota Badge, but that will become less of a selling point as newcomers like Hyundai and Kia press the industry to be the new leader. After being the “New Kid” on the block for the past decade, they are now a major player who is challenging the Japanese for top dog position.

Conveniences and comfort:
Very good for my liking and I believe you will want the high-tech stuff included or available as options. Comfortable seating relatively speaking. Perhaps the top of my hi-tech features is the smart cruise control and finally Toyota joined the rest of the carmakers to be functional at all speeds with “Resume” capability as the car comes to a full stop and restarts when traffic continues to move. Not only convenient, it is one of the best safety feature developments in a very long time.

Consumer Recommendation:
You have much to choose from Choose wisely. But whatever you do, remember to include Hyundai and Kia in your test driving. It would be a good idea to look at all of those listed here.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	Priced From	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Top Rankings KBB
Toyota C-HR	23,000	27-31	5	4	Japan	7
Toyota Corolla	19,000	32-42	5	4	Japan
Mitsubishi Outlander	22,000	23-29	5	4	Japan	4
Subaru Crosstrek	23,000	23-29	5	4	Japan	3
Hyundai Kona	20,000	28-32	5	4	Korea
Jeep Compass	22,000	23-32	5	4	USA	1
Chevrolet Trax	22,000	26-31	5	4	USA
Ford Escort	23,000	23-32	5	4	USA	2
Dodge Journey	15,000	19-25	5	4	USA
Mazda-3	22,000	27-36	5	4	Japan

Good News:
Consistently good cars, ranked # 7 by Kelly Bluebook, standard features that include most of the best available in today’s world.

Bad News:
n/a

Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 144 HP 4-cylinder engine, automatic CVT transmission, front wheel drive, electric power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, stabilizer bar and dampers, Pre-collision system and pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, auto high beams, full speed range smart cruise control, electric parking brake, ten standard airbags, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert, LATCH for children, tire pressure monitor, LED fog lights, power auto folding outside mirrors, rain sensing front windshield wipers, 8” touch screen , audio with 6 speakers, Bluetooth phone / Music, USB media / charge ports, Sirius XM with three month access, Siri eyes free, Leather trim heated front seats, 8-way adjustable driver seat with power lumbar, smart key system with push button start, remote keyless entry with lock and unlock, power locks, power windows, leather trim tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio, voice command, trip controls.

Gas Stats:
27 City and 31 Highway MPG

$4.19 / Gal of gas avg. May 25, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

Pricing:
MSRP $26,000.

2019 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring FWD

02-05-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring FWD

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joe Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring FWD crossover that is justright for a picnic trip to the California Poppy Reserve.

Or it will take you to the office, but in this case my office was in the desert for the day. The terrain was not too challenging, but then most of us rarely get too far off road. However, there are those times for some when you need to get further off road and for those there is an AWD version.

This new model version includes very good standard features. A new DirectTire Pressure Monitoring System, blind spot system with rear cross-traffic alert, push-button start, two USB ports, 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and a 7-inch Mazda Connect display. Grand Touring starts at $26,720 and includes black or Parchment leather seats with pleated piping, more chrome exterior accents, a full-color head-up display, power moonroof, adaptive LED headlights, LED fog lights, onboard navigation, and paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic transmission.

General Information: It is assembled in Horu, Japan; Parts– US/Canadian 0%, Japan 90% Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Compact Cars.Cars from Mazda:,CX-3,CX-5, CX-9, Mazda 3, Mazda 6, MX-5 Miata, MX-5 Miata RF.

Handling & Performance:
Not a turbo as equipped but I wasn’t in the mood / or have a need for extreme speed, and this was just fine, thank you. It handles well, and its size make it a great handling crossover.

Styling:
Not my favorite look mostly because I’m not real comfortable with the Chopped off rear end look. But design and style are a personal thing. Obviously, many others do like the look.

Fit and Finish:
Very good.

Cost:
Perfectly priced in class.

Conveniences and comfort:
I like the size but if you need room for more than 5 seating this won’t be your cup of tea.

Consumer Recommendation:
For those whose need fits the size configuration this is a great small crossover / SUV. It’s good for me, but if you need to haul the soccer team with all the gear it is limited for your use. Mazda is a great company and the product is as reliable as they come, and over the years the company can be relied upon to deliver great cars.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled
Mazda CX-3	26,000	31	5	4	Japan	Japan
Honda HR-V	25,000	30	5	4	Japan	USA
Hyundai Kona	23,000	30	5	4	Korea	Korea
Toyota C-HR	27,000	29	5	4	Japan	Japan

Good News:
Well priced, very good fuel economy, reliable, fabulous standard features list.

Bad News:
n/a

Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 4-cylinder 148 HP engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, front wheel drive, ABS 4-Wheel power Disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, 18” alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers, intermittent rear wiper, heated power mirrors, rear roof spoiler, power moonroof, tilt & telescopic steering column with audio and cruise controls on leather wrapped steering wheel, leather wrapped shift knob and brake handle, power automatic door locks, power windows, leather sport seats, heated front seats, 6-way manual driver’s seat, center armrest with storage, LATCH child safety seat anchors, anti-theft engine immobilizer, blind spot monitoring, smart city brake support, lane departure warning, electric power steering, independent front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, front stabilizer, LED headlights with auto on/off, LED fog lights and tail lights, climate control, color active driving display, navigation system, Bose AM/FM/ Satellite with 7-speakers, HD radio with USB input, Bluetooth hands free phone / audio, 7” color touch screen display, rearview camera, keyless entry with push button start, electronic parking brake, stability and traction controls, hill start assist, front side impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, rear cross traffic alert, smart cruise control.

Gas Stats:

$3.99 / Gal avg. April 29, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

29 City and 34 Highway MPG

Pricing:
MSRP $25,745.

2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4X4

30-04-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4X4

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4X4.Recently I reviewed the Wrangler and Compass and now revisiting the larger luxury model.

I had been interested personally because I’m looking to find a vehicle to tow behind a Motorhome. Very few cars will tow “Flat”, meaning on its own 4-wheels with all running gear disconnected from the engine and transmission. This way no miles are racked up on the odometer and it is easier to hook up.

Only the Wrangler and Cherokee will ‘flat tow’ so it’s a toss-up between the Wrangler and the Cherokee. Of course, the Grand Cherokee would add space and comfort and features I prefer, but not critical.

General Information: It is assembled in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Parts: – US/Canada 61%, Mexico 27%, Engine – Mexico; Transmission – USA.; Classification is Standard SUV. Cars from Jeep: Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Renegade, Wrangler, Wrangler JK, Wrangler JK Unlimited and Wrangler Unlimited

Handling & Performance:
All SUV for me are very similar on the highway, but when needed off road Jeep has the advantage.

Styling:
My banker wanted some advice on some cars she was looking at and she recounted that her dream car as a young person was a Mercedes Benz Coupe. One of the reasons she wanted a Mercedes was because the design / styling didn’t change.

I thought, yes, I felt the same and, in a world, where design changes often Jeep has always been true to its image consistently since its origin in 1942.

Fit and Finish:
It is finely assembled and at least equal to the competition.

Cost:
Of the competition noted here Jeep is one of the best buys in this line of “Off Road” capable cars. It is even a little too luxurious for a lot of off roading. If I were going to be doing a lot of that I would suggest the best adaptation is the Wrangler.

You can dress the Grand Cherokee in a Tuxedo for about $5,000. But as priced here, it is just fine. However, there is an option group (Jeep Advanced Active Safety Group) that I would add for $1,495. Included are “Smart Cruise”, advanced brake assist, full-speed forward collision warning, Lane Sense / Lane Departure Warning, Parallel and perpendicular park assist and Rain Sensitive wipers. These are all those things that add so much to your driving experience.

Conveniences and comfort:
Very comfortable ride as we’ve come to expect in a road car. In and around town it doesn’t matter so much but if your use means one or more-hour trips it’s nice to have the added padding on those seats.

Consumer Recommendation:
Determine if you will need to go off road. Consider how many times you’ve taken your vehicle out on the “outback” and if the answer is never, don’t spend the money for 4-Wheel Drive.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled	Drive Train
Jeep Grand Cherokee	41,000	21	5	4	USA	USA	4WD
Land Rover Discovery	67,000	18	7	4	UK	UK	4WD
Subaru Outback	36,000	22	5	4	Japan	USA	AWD
Ford Explorer	36,000	18	7	4	USA	USA	4WD
GMC Acadia	45,000	20	7	4	USA	USA	AWD
Porsche Cayenne	67,000	20	5	4	Germany	Germany	AWD

Good News:
Well appointed, off road capable, well priced.

Bad News:
If fuel economy is high on your list you probably won’t want to drive a big SUV, especially one that can take you off-road.

Standard Equipment:
3.6 liter V6 VVT engine, 8-speed auto transmission, Quadra trac II 4WD, select-terrain system, ParkView rear back up camera, Park Sense assist and stop, Blind spot and cross path detection, sport mode, keyless enter and go, remote start system, sentry key theft deterrent system, ready alert braking, cruise control, power liftgate, stability control, 4-wheel disc ABS brakes, hill start assist, trailer sway damping, Uconnect with 8.4” display, Navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio w/ 1 year subscription Guardian Service, 5-year traffic service, 5-year Travel Link Service, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth with voice command, 2-USB ports, Auxiliary port, 4-G LTE Wi-Fi Hot Spot, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat with memory and 8-way passenger seat, heated leather wrapped steering wheel, climate control, front and side seat mounted airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.

Gas Stats:

$3.89 / Gal avg. April 28, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

Pricing:
MSRP $40,945.

2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport M/T

30-04-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport M/T

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra Sport M/T.It hasn’t changed much from 2018 but what impresses me is how much car you can get for $22,000.

It never ceases to amaze me and boggles the mind why some folks are still riding public transportation. Owning a car has never been more affordable. This is NOT true in so many places in the world but in California, where everything is so spread out public transportation is still very inconvenient. No matter how much the state spends on rail or other metro forms of transportation, cars still reign supreme in California. It has always been true here and in most rural parts of the country.

General Information: It is assembled in Ulsan, Korea; Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Japan 1%, Korea 89%; Engine and transmission – Korea;; Classification is Midsize Cars. Cars from Hyundai: Accent, Azera, Elantra, Elantra GT, Elantra Sport M/T, Santa Fe, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, Tucson and Veloster.

Handling & Performance:
I tested the Elantra Limited a year ago with no turbo but for me smaller engines need that boost. This Sport turbocharged model delivers 201 horsepower from its 1.6 liter 4-cylinder engine equipped with a manual transmission. Fabulous.

Fewer and fewer people know how to drive a manual transmission car in today’s world, but for the sport car enthusiast a Manual transmission enhances the driving experience. Love it.

Styling:
Nice. The Sport model notches up the look a lot for me.

Fit and Finish:
Very good.

Cost:
Fantastic value.

Conveniences and comfort:
Where the Elantra Limited I tested last year was light on the high-tech features, this Sport is very well equipped with all the features I want on my car – and it comes standard. Hyundai continues, in my opinion, to be at the top of the list in this class.

I especially like the new CarPlay feature. I, like so many, use their phones for more and more and their whole life is in that little device. It used to be just a phone, but today it is so convenient to have everything on your phone right there on the cars screen. On board navigation systems, for example, are no longer needed and I suspect will be phased out in favor of using your phone’s Nav system. That saves a bunch of money. You gotta love technology.

Consumer Recommendation:
Of course, you’ll test drive the competition too, but I’m betting you’ll be as impressed as I am with the product.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled
Hyundai Elantra Sport	22,000	25	5	4	Korea	Korea
Mazda 3	22,000	30	5	4	Japan	Mexico
Toyota Corolla	23,000	30	5	4	Japan	USA
Chevrolet Cruze	23,000	33	5	4	USA	USA
Honda Civic Si	25,000	32	5	4	Japan	?
VW GTi	28,000	27	5	4	Germany	Mexico
Nissan Sentra	27,000	27	5	4	Japan	Mexico

Good News:
Good pricing, Sporty, fast, fun to drive.

Bad News:
Fuel economy is on the low end of competitors in this segment.

Standard Equipment:
1.6 liter Turbo GDI 501 HP 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, multi-link rear suspension with sport tuned suspension and steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, 18” Alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail lights with daytime running lights, Lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance assist, blind spot collision warning, rear cross traffic collision warning, front and front side and side curtain airbags, stability control with traction control, ABS electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, 7” display, audio with AM/FM/HD radio, Sirius XM with 90 day trial, android auto & Apple CarPlay, dual charging USB power outlets, Bluetooth hands free phone system, power sunroof, leather wrapped sport steering wheel, Heated sport leather seating, rear center armrest with cupholders, hands free smart trunk release.

Gas Stats:

$3.89-Gal avg. April 29, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:
MSRP $22,600.

This is new test Post

04-04-2019Autolove No comments

Just for testing.

2019 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Sedan

01-04-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Sedan

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Sedan.What has been referred to as Toyota’s Flag Ship model, the Camry has been a great representation of the product and very popular with all the Toyota consumer base.

Although Toyota has been and continues to be a very good car, I know the market is getting so fine-tuned and all car makers are jockeying for position in an ever-changing industry. Lately I have been pushing Korean made cars and apparently the consumer is too. Once again, the tables have turned, and many car makers are altering their product emphasis. For example, some will cut many models from their lineup, as they move to the most profitable for them to make and thus the market is in constant adjustment mode. That’s a good thing, by the way, because it is a free market fact of life. The consumer wins and the manufacturer lives to fight another day.

e.g. Ford Motor Company announced recently that it’s cutting traditional sedans from its U.S. lineup, except for the revered Mustang, saying goodbye to the Fusion, Focus, Fiesta and Taurus so it can double down on trucks and sport utilities. Ford realized it can’t be everything to everyone.

Ford is not alone. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles already killed the Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 to focus on more profitable Jeep SUVs and Ram pickups. General Motors has been cutting back on sedan production, too. It is reported that the Chevrolet Sonic and Impala could be axed, while Cadillac is retooling its luxury lineup to focus more on SUVs.

The big three say they’re simply following consumer preferences, which have shifted squarely in favor of SUVs and crossovers, to work to their strengths and might as well concentrate where they have the strongest following and, of course, higher profit margins.

Let’s face it, we are becoming more and more specialized in every field of endeavor, and the auto industry is no exception. This is a good adjustment to how cars are made and sold. We’ll see how it all works out over the next decade or so.

General Information: Assembly: Georgetown, Kentucky, USA; ; Classification is Midsize Cars; Vehicles from Toyota: : 4Runner, 86, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry Camry Hybrid, C-HR, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Mirai, Prius, Prius C, Prius Prime, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma Access Cab, Tacoma Double Cab, Tundra CrewMax, Tundra Double Cab, Yaris and Yaris iA.

Handling & Performance:
Toyota cars can be counted on to be tops in quality and performance. I always look at the ease of driving, and steering characteristics on Toyota cars, for example, is noticeably among the best these days. This Camry is tight and solid in ride and handling, and that means less stress on those longer drives. They are also getting better with the Smart Cruise feature that is, to me, the single best features available today. It should be ‘standard equipment’ on ALL cars, and I predict it will be soon.

Styling:
Top notch design. Kudos to designers.

Fit and Finish:
Always the best workmanship.

Cost:
You’ll pay a little more, but then again, you get what you pay for.

Conveniences and comfort:
Overall comfort is “As good as it gets”. Reminds me of one of my favorite Jack Nicholson movies.

Consumer Recommendation:
One of the most important parts of a review, in my estimation, is the Competition. Consumers need to look at all products when making a major purchase decision. Houses, a job and yes, the car that fits your needs is a major purchase and needs to be given a lot of thought.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled
Toyota Camry	36,000	26	5	4	Japan	USA
Honda Accord	37,000	26	5	4	Japan	USA
Ford Fusion	40,000	20	5	4	USA	Mexico
Nissan Altima	34,000	29	5	4	Japan	USA
VW Passat	31,000	29	5	4	Germany	USA
Kia Optima	33,000	24	5	4	Korea	USA
Hyundai Sonata	26,000	28	5	4	Korea	USA
Subaru Legacy	32,000	23	5	4	Japan	USA
Mazda 6	36,000	26	5	4	Japan	Japan
Mercedes-Benz GLA	37,000	26	5	4	Germany	Germany

Good News:
Consistently good cars, wonderful standard features as priced.

Bad News:
n/a

Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 301 HP V6 VVT engine, 8-speed auto transmission, Sport tuned suspension, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, Smart cruise control – smart stop technology, lane departure alert with steering assist, auto high beams, star safety system: stability and traction control, abs electric brake force distribution, brake assist, LATCH system for children, ten airbags, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, 19” alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto on/off feature, panoramic glass roof with power moonroof, Entune 3.0 Audio plus with JBL and Clari-fi, App suite, 8” touch screen, CD player, 9-speakers, Bluetooth hands free phone and music, USB media port, 2-USB charge ports, SiriusXM with 3-month access trial, Siri Eyes free, Apple CarPlay compatible, 10” color heads up display, sport leather trimmed heated front seats with 8-way power driver and passenger seats, leather trimmed steering wheel with audio, Bluetooth, and voice command controls, back up camera with dynamic gridlines, 7” multi-information display, smart key system with push button start and climate control.

Gas Stats:
22 City and 32 Highway MPG

$3.39 / Gal of gas avg. March 26, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

21 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:
MSRP $34,600.

2019 Kia Optima SX Turbo

23-03-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Kia Optima SX Turbo

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Kia Optima SX Turbo. Well, I’m impressed. This class has evolved to the point of near luxury. It will fit my budget while delivering all a person needs to be set apart. Great features and styling you gotta love. It is roomy and fast and looks good too. This week’s ride was a delight and reinforces my support for Korean made cars.

General Information: It is assembled in West Point, GA USA; Parts – US/Canadian 48%, Korea 50%; Engine and transmission – USA; Classification is Midsize. Cars from Kia: Cadenza, Forte,, K900, Niro, Optima, Rio, Rio 5-door, Sedona, Sorento, Soul, Sportage and Stinger.

Handling & Performance:
I love small engines that are turbocharged. Better on fuel economy with optional ‘turbocharged’ power when you want or need it.

Styling:
I love these Korean’s – they really have done their homework and know what people want. Or, are they just good copy cats? Well, doesn’t matter since they’re doing a great job and I’m thrilled with how quickly the company has picked up their share of the market.

One guy commented to me that this would be a great UBER car since it roomy in the rear seat.

Fit and Finish:
I must admit you can’t really distinguish these car options based on how well they are assembled. Coming from the ‘old school’ I remember when some makes would shake, rattle and roll more than Elvis’ hips.

Cost:
All the competition is too close to separate them based on price. They are competing and we, the consumer, is winning. Good old Capitalism with a free market principle that works every time.

Conveniences and comfort:
Toyota could learn a lot from Kia and others who feature true “Smart Cruise Control” that will stop and start with traffic changes. It adds great comfort and sense of safety and reduces stress on the highway with ridiculous traffic conditions. Thanks Kia.

Consumer Recommendations:
You will want to look long and hard at the competition and realize there is a reason you are beginning to see growing numbers of Korean cars on the highway. Kia and Hyundai get my vote for car company of the year.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled
Kia Optima SX	32,000	24	5	4	Korea	USA
Honda Accord	33,000	27	5	4	Japan	USA
Hyundai Sonata	33,000	26	5	4	Korea	USA
Chevy Malibu	33,000	26	5	4	USA	USA
Toyota Camry	35,000	26	5	4	Japan	USA
Nissan Altima	33,000	31	5	4	Japan	USA
Ford Fusion *	32,000	23	5	4	USA	Mexico

Good News:
Roomy, fast turbo, comfortable and great features list

Bad News:
No complaints.

Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 230 HP Turbo 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, 18” alloy wheels, front side and side curtain airbags, LATCH system, ABS braking system, traction & stability controls, vehicle stability management, hill start assist, tire pressure monitor, Harmon Cardon Audio, UVO Link Navigation with 8” touchscreen, rear camera, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, SIRIUS XM, Bluetooth, power front seats with memory, leather seats with heated and ventilated front seats, push button start, smart key, smart trunk, heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, blind spot collision warning, forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep and lane departure warning, parking assist, rear cross traffic collision warning, smart cruise control with stop and go feature, LED fog lights and headlights with high beam assist, Panoramic sunroof with power sunshade.

Gas Stats:
$3.23-Gal avg. March 20, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

21 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:
MSRP $31,900.

2019 Toyota Sequoia 4X4 Platinum 7 Passenger 5.7L V8

18-03-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Toyota Sequoia 4X4 Platinum 7 Passenger 5.7L V8

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Toyota Sequoia 4X4 Platinum 7 Passenger 5.7L V8. Toyota has made great cars for many years now and it is a badge you can rely on. I have to say, however, that the new kid on the block, Kia / Hyundai is a formidable competitor and can’t be ignored when looking for reliable transportation.

In any case, I really enjoyed the ride this week because of all my great experiences with the Japanese people over the years. The character of the people means a lot to me and because I’ve traveled to Japan 8 times in the past, and worked with companies there, I had the opportunity to get to know and appreciate its people. They have great dedication, as a people with a great work ethic which has given them a decided advantage in the auto industry. Its leaders, however, like any culture led them astray into a war they couldn’t win. But the people are resilient and struggled back to dominate some segments of world commerce. Electronics and automobiles are just two outstanding examples.

General Information: Assembly:Princeton, Indiana, USA; Classification is Standard SUV; Vehicles from Toyota: 4Runner, 86, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, C-HR, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Mirai, Prius, Prius C, Prius Prime, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma Access Cab, Tacoma Double Cab, Tundra CrewMax, Tundra Double Cab, Yaris and Yaris iA.

Handling & Performance:
Toyota delivers a solid ride with great handling characteristics. That feeling comes from driving, of course, but also comes from consumers because of a consistent and reliable performance record.

If you have a need for transporting a lot of folks, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Styling:
When you get a huge number of any product in the public eye it becomes immediately recognizable. Thus, it gives the appearance of a successful product.

After so many years of good designs there is great recognition, which they deserve from a faithful and near cult following. Often, however, that can be the kiss of death as well. One only need look at history showing when any organization grows very large they often become arrogant and withdrawn from consumers. And when the consumer turns on you, you’re done.

Case in point – GM had cutbacks, Ford struggled too, and Chrysler nearly went under. The big three once dominated the auto industry for a hundred years and have taken a big hit from competition. Surely it was because they became complacent and I hope Toyota has learned from history and will avoid the attitude that they’re too big to fail. That would be sad.

So now, we see the emergence of Kia and Hyundai, ‘new kid on the block’ into the market and growing rapidly. Don’t you just love competition that keeps everyone humble and on their toes.

Fit and Finish:
Attention to detail has been a real strong point at Toyota, and they continue to do a great job. Keep it up, is my suggestion to the folks at Toyota, and resist getting too big for your britches.

Cost:
Pricey. Some will say ‘you get what you pay for’ but how much is a badge worth at the end of the day? Not a hell of a lot, because there is always another company ready to knock you out.

Conveniences and comfort:
I was fortunate to test this Sequoia during the rare rainy days in California. It even snowed on me and this lovely SUV. But the good news is that the test revealed an interesting flaw in the Smart Cruise feature. The system quit, and a message came on the dash flashing: “Cruise Unavailable – Clean Sensor.” The snow must have distorted the sensor and it wouldn’t work. Some miles later, however, the snow was replaced by rain which washed off the snow and the system began to work again. In the meantime, I was quickly awakened as I came on slowing traffic without the radar sensing impending disaster.

On the same subject, I have often complained that Toyota’s smart cruise was not as smart as most others in that it ceased to operate at about 25 mph. Now, I’m testing a Toyota Camry I find they may have adopted the truly smart version of ‘smart cruise’ that allows for the car to come to a complete stop and start up again when traffic begins to move again. They may have listened to complaints and joined other cars that use the best version of Smart Cruise? I hope to see it in other Toyota products upcoming.

Consumer Recommendation:
Clearly the US companies have and still do dominate this segment of SUV market. They do for a good reason. They have the most experience and generally do a better job with the large truck platforms that apply to this class SUV as well. They generally perform better overall. Some experts put it this way – US products in class are better family haulers with better fuel economy and power which US consumers demand. Many want to haul boats and mobile homes which is prevalent in US culture.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$	MPG	Seating	Doors	Country of Origin	Assembled
Toyota Sequoia	69,000	14	7	4	Japan	USA
GMC Yukon	71,000	17	8	4	USA	USA
Chevy Tahoe	67,000	18	8	4	USA	USA
Dodge Durango	64,000	15	7	4	USA	USA
Ford Expedition	70,000	18	8	4	USA	USA
Nissan Armada	64,000	15	8	4	Japan	USA
Jeep Grand Cherokee	56,000	21	5	4	USA	USA

Good News:
Among top of the line SUV’s, well priced, super comfortable, good power, luxurious and huge cargo capability – last but not least they are all built in the USA.

Bad News:
Poor fuel economy across the board in class, Toyota’s version of Smart Cruise Control not the best, but there are signs they may be changing.

Standard Equipment:
5.7 liter V8, 381 horsepower dual VVT (variable valve timing) engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, 4-WD with locking center differential, tow hitch, electronic modulated air suspension, adaptive variable suspension system, 20” alloy wheels, Safety Sense, pre-collision w/pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, sway warning, auto high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, rear backup camera, blind spot monitor, power liftgate with jam protection, trailer sway control, windshield wiper de-icer, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, front side and side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag, child protector door locks, LATCH system, front and rear parking assist sonar, LED headlights and fog lights with auto on / off, power auto-dim heated mirrors with memory power folding with Reverse tilt-down feature, power tilt and slide moonroof with shade, rear spoiler, running boards, privacy glass, climate control with air filter, JBL audio with Nav and app suite, High resolution touch screen, Bluetooth, USB, HD radio with 14 speakers , CD, SXM-3, rear seat Blu-Ray Player with 9” screen, power windows and locks, power liftgate, Keyless entry, 7 passenger leather trim seats, heated and vented 10-way power driver seat and 4-way front passenger power seats, heated sliding, reclining 2nd Row captain’s Chairs with 1-touch access to power recline, fold flat 60/40 3rd row seats.

Gas Stats:
13 City and 17 Highway MPG

$3.15 / Gal of gas avg. March 12, 2019
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

Pricing:
MSRP $67,635.

2019 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SEL Final Edition

08-03-2019Autolove No comments

2019 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SEL Final Edition

An Automotive Love Affair
By Joseph Mavilia

Overview:
This is the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T SEL Final Edition. Hearts are breaking all over the country. Final Edition. . . Well maybe it will come back.

The only explanation I can find is that it wasn’t selling well enough to VW’s liking. Business is business and if it isn’t profitable discontinuing the bug is understandable. What I cannot believe, however, is that not enough people liked it. OR, maybe it was too fancied up and the cost became unattractive for a small car. I believe it is better than the competition

General Information: It is assembled in – Puebla, Mexico; Parts -US/Canadian 9%, Mexico 33%; Other 43%, Engine – Mexico, Transmission – Japan; ; Classification is Compact; Cars from Volkswagen: Atlas, Beetle, Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Gti, Golf R, Golf Sportswagen, Jetta, Passat, Tiguan & Touareg.

Handling & Performance:
The Beetle really turned out to be a solid performer. Fast, comfortable and great handling.

Styling:
Classic car status

Fit and Finish:
It may have been too good. All the VW’s I owned (3) were in fact vintage cars and I appreciated the bare necessities transportation. It reminds me of the Restaurant business. Whenever you’re doing great it is likely best not to change. I’ve seen it over and over again that when the ambiance changes it is off-putting to consumers.

Cost:
I guess more than people were willing to pay.

Conveniences and comfort:
Outstanding ride. The test vehicle had cruise control, but I understand they don’t offer “Smart Cruise” control, which is my favorite feature and becoming more common for most manufacturers.

Consumer Recommendations:
Some will dissuade you, but I would say, don’t give up or shy away. VW isn’t going anywhere any time soon and they stand behind what they build.

Recognized Competition:

Brand	$$$ Cost	MPG Avg	Seating	Doors	Drive	Country/ Origin	Assembled
VW Beetle	26,000	29	4	2	FWD	Germany	Mexico
MINI	26,000	28	5	4	FWD	Germany	UK
Fiat 500	21,000	30	4	2	FWD	Italy	Mexico
Ford Fiesta	22,000	28	5	4	FWD	USA	Mexico

Good News:
German/American icon with great track record, good fuel economy, powerful Turbo acceleration, , very good standard features.

Bad News:
Final Version as promised last year.

Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter turbo 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, front wheel drive, 4-wheel independent suspension, front, 6 airbags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, engine brake assist, anti-slip regulation (traction control), electronic brake force distribution, stability control, intelligent crash response system, LATCH system, tire pressure monitoring, rear view camera system, 18” alloy wheels, auto by-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, fog lights with low speed cornering lights, heated foldable power mirrors with turn signals, rain sensing intermittent wipers with heated washer nozzles, power tilt and slide sunroof, dual zone climate control, leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, tilt / telescopic steering column, power tilt and sliding sunroof, front heated 8-way manual adjusting seats, 2nd row 50/50 split folding seats, leatherette seating, final edition features including diamond stitched leather seating, stainless steel pedal cluster, metal door sill scuff plates. Park distance control front and rear, blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert, keyless access with push button start, 6.3” touch screen navigation system, multi band radio & CD player, dual USB inputs, auxiliary, voice control, Fender audio system with subwoofer, Bluetooth connectivity, Sirius XM satellite radio, Cruise control.

Gas Stats:
$3.15/ Gal avg. March 6, 2019

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

Pricing:
MSRP $25,995.

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