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2011 Audi Q7 3.0T S line Quattro Tiptronic (856)
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
2011 Audi Q5 2.0T quatro Tiptronic (855)
Overview:
You can, as I did, get on the 241 and not realize you’re on a toll road because other than a small note on the freeway signs “Toll” you wouldn’t know it. When you drive on the east coast you learn to expect toll roads because there has been Graft and Corruption there longer than here in California. You can bet the farm someone got paid off to get this by the people. Was there any vote on this? How could this happen when we already pay for our “FREEways”. It’s just plain BS.
I’d tell you how I really feel buy my editor / publisher would bleep it out. How about you – what do you think about toll roads here in California, and is there anything we can do about it? joe@atthewheel.com.
Handling & Performance:
I just love turbocharged engines. It ‘boosts’ performance of smaller engines when you need it. However, many people complain that the delay you feel before the turbo kicks in is a constant annoyance. True enough and Audi needs to work on this.
Some will appreciate the Tiptronic but you can have it. I find it useless and a big waste of money.
Styling:
Electronic’s are a sore point for me with all German Cars generally so they all receive a bad rating from me. I think they must be made in Poland if you get my drift. (And before you write me about ethnic slurs, my better half was born in Poland. I’ve been all over the country and I love the people, so that qualifies me to make that comment).
The elegant look of Audi is distinctive and designers have given it some pretty amazing touches – most notably the innovative lighting. You definitely know it’s an Audi when you see it cruising down the highway. Nice going guys.
Audi along with Porsche, Bentley, Bugati, and Lamborghini are subsidiaries of the Volkswagen Group. Those are all great cars and VW management is special and smart. I owned a Lamborghini and I trust VW has improved on what I experienced way back when.
Fit and Finish:
Very Good, as expected.
Cost:
If your budget is tight the Q5 is just big enough for most of us with a price tag that is livable, but if your threshold of price pain is greater you will fall in love with the Q7 as I did (coming next week).
Conveniences and comfort:
Rain sensing wipers, Bluetooth, outstanding quality seats.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you came from a prior generation you will have to put aside your experience with the mechanical maladies of model years past. VW has been involved Audi and like Ford’s involvement with Jaguar all benefited from the liaison.
Recognized Competition (MSRP):
Audi Q5 $35,200, Acura RDX $32,620, Acura ZDX $45,645, BMW X3 $38,850, BMW X6 $57,000, Cadillac SRX $34,430, Ford Edge $27,455, GMC Terrain $24,250, Infiniti EX $34,550, Land Rover LR2 $35,500, Lexus RX 350 $38,375, Lexus RX 450h $43,935, Lincoln MKX $39,375, Mazda CX-9 $29,135, Mercedes-Benz GLK $35,500, Nissan Murano $28,520, Porsche Cayenne $45,500, Volkswagen Tiguan $23,720, Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid $60,565.
Good News:
Great styling, hugely improved quality from early product, helpful features like Rain Sensing and very comfortable seating and last but not least is great management.
Bad News:
Tiptronic racing feature is a needless cost, only fair fuel economy and annoying hesitation from the Turbo, lousy electronics interface.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 211 horsepower turbocharged inline 4-cylinder direct injected engine , 8-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission, Quattro permanent all wheel drive system, 18” alloy wheels, 5-link front suspension, roof rails with crossbars, trailer hitch with pre-wiring, electronic stabilization, 4-wheel antilock disc brake system, tire pressure monitor, leather 12-way power seats, climate control, wood decorative inlays, tilt & telescopic steering column, leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel, heated power mirrors, rain sensing wipers, 60/40 split folding rear seat, Concert radio with CD, SIRIUS satellite radio, driver information system, cruise control, front, side and side curtain airbags, active & passive rollover protection, anti theft vehicle alarm, LATCH – lower anchors for child restraint & rear safety locks.
Gas Stats:
$3.71/ Gal avg. Feb. 28, 2011
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
20 City and 27 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $35,200.
2011 Audi A5 2.0 TFSI Tiptronic Cabriolet (854)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Audi A5 2.0 TFSI Tiptronic Cabriolet (Convertible). Audi is the first car maker to combine Turbo charging with a Fuel Injection system – thus the TFSI designation.
Well, the A5 made my week an enjoyable one. Nothing ostentatious, but simply quiet elegance. You slip into it with ease and it becomes an immediate friend. Perhaps it fit my liking more because I don’t need a soccer mom’s car any longer.
I can see this car fitting a single professional guy or gal beyond their surfing days with a responsible job with all the stress of today’s business world. Leave the office a little early on a hot summer day, put the top down and let the wind blow away the cares of a busy day. Its size is perfect for the small garage in Malibu or squeezes in those tight spots on narrow streets in Newport Beach. There’s always time later for suburbia and the kids when peace and quiet is boring somehow.
Opinion:
CHP Watch – Be alert and you won’t be a victim.
Tell us about your experiences on the highway. joe@atthewheel.com. Others want to know. Give us your tips on how to avoid pitfalls of all kinds on the highway. Report potholes and other dangers and I will print them and notify the authorities and Cal Trans of the problems. Let’s all be a part of the solution and not remain silent.
Bob, a reader in the Antelope Valley, CA, made his feelings known recently about a couple of highway weaknesses in his opinion.
“… some designs leave me scratching my head. The I-5 through East Los Angeles is down to 1 lane southbound while the northbound in the same area is 2 lanes. What moron thought that was good? Another of my favorites is CA 14 northbound at the top of the (summit) grade where it goes from 3 lanes, 4 if you count the car pool lane, where you lose the far right lane at the crest on a blind curve. I have seen more crashed vehicles in that area than any other spot I drive on my daily commute.”
Those of us who drive that area of the 14 freeway every day can relate to that. Hello Cal Trans, is anyone awake up there?
Handling & Performance:
Performance is fast from the smooth power delivered by the turbocharger. Love it. Handling is enhanced from a perfect subcompact size to go with the solid all wheel drive grip rain or shine. I appreciate the confidence you get from the Quattro.
All Wheel Drive isn’t new or unique to Audi. The concept dates back to 1966 when supercar-builder Jensen introduced it to British buyers with its FF model. The Audi Quattro was shown to the public for the first time on March 3, 1980 at the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland. Audi was the first mass market car to feature all-wheel drive technology with the tag: quattro.
Styling:
Clean and simple but comfortably and quietly elegant. That’s Class.
Electronics is not as user friendly as I like but is common in most German cars. I suspect over time I would get used to the European ways, but simplicity is better. I’m old fashioned and prefer knobs.
Sun visors that don’t extend were a surprise. If you don’t drive west in North America in the afternoon then it really doesn’t matter, but if you do, it is annoying.
Convertible top – you’d never notice with the top up – a really a nice design, unless you need a lot of space in the trunk. On the plus the rear seat is decent for a convertible.
Fit and Finish:
Good fit and finish, but I wish they had made it a little quieter and eliminate road noise that is more noticeable than I would have expected.
Cost:
In this company of competition pricing is fair.
Conveniences and comfort:
Rain sensing wipers are really cool. It gives me more time to write notes while driving… ok, it’s not recommended but I don’t look at what I’m writing but just capturing a thought. But – it is still not the same thing as putting make up on while looking in the mirror. OK, so I only do that when I cross dress.
Bluetooth –
I have a portable since I change cars every week but you should opt for this inexpensive safety device, not to mention it is unlawful to use a cell phone without it.
Oh, the cross dressing – just kidding.
Consumer Recommendation:
When you sit in a new car and get the immediate feeling “I could own this car” it’s a good thing. And giving it back came way too soon.
Recognized Competition (MSRP):
Audi A5 Cabriolet $44,190, BMW 6 Series Convertible $85,550, Cadillac CTS $44,505, Chevrolet Corvette Convertible $56,790, Infiniti EX $35,950, Infiniti G Convertible $49,450, Infiniti G Coupe $39,750, Mercedes-Benz E-Class $56,850, Volvo C70 $39,950.
Good News:
Great AWD handling control, great looking, comfy, classy convertible top, decent fuel economy and cool rain sensing wipers.
Bad News:
Noticeable road noise, non-user-friendly electronics controls, sun visors don’t extend.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 211 horsepower turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, Quattro all wheel drive system, 18” alloy wheels, 5-link front suspension, speed sensitive steering, electronic stabilization, antilock brake system, halogen headlights, tire pressure monitor, fog lights, automatic soft top, leather 8-way power seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, climate control, Concert radio with CD with SD card slot and auxiliary audio input, SIRIUS satellite radio with 10 speakers, cruise control, remote locking system, split folding rear seat with full pass through to trunk, front and side airbags with front knee airbags, anti theft vehicle alarm, lower anchors for child restraint.
Gas Stats:
$3.46/ Gal avg. Feb. 19, 2011
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
21 City and 29 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $44,190.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2011 – An Automotive Love Affair
2011 Kia Optima EX (853)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Korean made Kia Optima EX, and with only minor differences the computer has done a great job of cloning our car market. And although they do all look similar, there are subtle differences that give some a more pleasing look. This Kia has some quality of style that elicited some thumbs up on the freeway and observers in parking areas. The range of ages were varied as well. I was pleased that others felt the same way I do.
I continue to be impressed with cars from Korea, and as an aside, back in the 1960’s our family took a chance on a car from a new car maker from Japan. Datsun was the brand and buying a Japanese car turned out to be a good decision and we never regretted it. I believe that to be the case with the newest of car makers to evolve, and in this case it is from South Korea.
Opinion:
If you use cruise control you know how irritating it is to be following a driver who slows and speeds up and slows again as he goes in and out of consciousness. Reminds me of a nursing baby who needs to be nudged to stay awake long enough to feed.
But it will be you who gets the ticket for passing those inconsiderate drivers. It reminds me of being a kid and playing cowboys and Indians or cops and robbers (in today’s world the latter two are the same), because you can bet when you pass that sleepy driver you will surely be the one who gets the $200 to $1,000 ticket. Obscene is what that kind of taxation has turned into. My constant reminder is to tell you to slow down and avoid them. When they can’t write tickets they will be forced into real jobs when the government can no longer afford to pay them.
Handling & Performance:
Good power but when you put the pedal to the metal it sounds like it is straining more than it should. The ride is comfortable and general handling is stable and solid. Of course all the advanced control features make that possible. Thus cars can have softer rides and still be in control.
Styling:
Lots of thumbs up from the lookers. It is a very nice classy looking car. It is roomy inside and has a nice size trunk.
Fit and Finish:
Quite good in class.
Cost:
Very competitive in this midsize segment of the market.
Conveniences and comfort:
Cool cooling glove box, and the seats heat and cool as well. For 200 horsepower this is a very energetic quick car, but the gas pedal is annoyingly touchy.
Consumer Recommendation:
The thumbs up speaks volumes of how this Kia looks and coming from young and older alike it will stay in favor.
Let’s face it, Korean cars are gaining favor much faster than other countries brands and thus it helps to remove the ‘fear’ of buying from newer entrants into the car market. This is a MUST drive inclusion in your search. I think you’ll be impressed overall. Cars like this have helped to launch South Korea into the 21st Century and out of the category of a third world country. North Korea is another story all together.
Recognized Competition:
Kia Optima $18-24,000, Buick LaCrosse $25-31,000, Chevrolet Impala $23-28,000, Chevrolet Malibu $20-25,000, Chrysler 200 $19,000, Chrysler Sebring $20,000, Dodge Avenger $20,000, Ford Fusion $18-26,000, Ford Taurus $23-34,000, Honda Accord $19-28,000, Honda Accord Crosstour $30,000, Hyundai Sonata $18-25,000, Mazda6 $20,000, Mercury Milan $22,000, Mitsubishi Galant $20-23,000, Nissan Altima $19-27,000, Pontiac G6 $19,000, Saturn Aura $23,000, Subaru Legacy $18-28,000, Suzuki Kizashi $19,000, Toyota Camry $18-26,000, Volkswagen GLI $25,000, Volkswagen Jetta $14-24,000, Volvo S40 $28,000.
Good News:
Great pricing segment of the midsize market and Kia is a player with features found on more expensive cars.
Bad News:
Sensitive accelerator pedal,
Standard Equipment:
2.4 liter 4-cylinder 200 horsepower engine, 6-speed auto trans with front wheel drive, power steering, 17” alloy wheels, front, side and side curtain airbags, LATCH child seat system, anti lock brake system, traction and stability controls, hill start and down hill brake assist control, tire pressure monitor, climate control, audio with CD/MP3 and 6 speakers, satellite radio, USB & Auxiliary outlets/ input, Bluetooth, leather seating & steering wheel, power driver seat, power windows & locks, power heated mirrors with turn signal indicators, fog lights, solar glass, push button start with smart key, cruise control, cooling glove box.
Gas Stats:
$3.41/ Gal avg. Feb. 15, 2011
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
24 City and 34 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $22,495.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2011 – An Automotive Love Affair
2011 Suzuki SX4 Sportback (852)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Suzuki SX4 Sportback. Right off the get go, I have to say whoever was responsible for the sun visors that don’t extend should be shot, or at the very least run out of town. Ok, so that is one of my pet peeves when you can’t block the sun on the side window. Glad I got that out of my system. It just bugs me because I’d be willing to pay the extra $5.00 to make them slide.
Pea popper was the first thought that came to mind when I saw this SX4 up close and opened the door. But after I drove it for a while I got used to it being smaller than my need, but moreover it is much larger than the exterior would imply. Years ago I bought an efficient Ford Fiesta that was very basic and fit the need at the time. For the money I could see buying this SX4 for my kid’s graduation from high school. Guy or gal it would serve them well all the way through college. The VW bug was the hot ticket when I went through college.
Opinion:
The thought occurred to me that everyone should buy one of these efficient cars. In fact, why can’t government force everyone to drive one of these green cars? Our social engineers in Washingtonshould take over all car makers, produce reliable green cars and while they’re at it, they could paint them all one uninteresting green color. Isn’t that the American way? Ford did it with the Model A and you could have any color you wanted as long as it was black…. oh, that’s right that was an innovative private enterprise company. Silly me.
Handling & Performance:
Pea popper zippy little car that is fun to drive and handles well on the freeway at 70 mph. The 6-speed manual transmission covers for the minimal horsepower at 150. Finally we’re reaching fuel cost at the pump and a social awareness of the world cost of oil the rest of the world has always lived with. When gas in the US reaches world prices of about $8.00 a gallon you’ll see a lot more of these small cars on the road. You can take that to the bank.
Styling:
Clean and simple aerodynamic lines. Older car buffs will relate to the similarities between the cars of today and the cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Young drivers would modify the look and feel by ‘torching’ the springs in the front to lower it, which was referred to as putting it on a ‘rake’. It was done to reduce air drag (or make it more aerodynamic). It would be several years’ later Detroit brainiacs with computer aided design tools would figure out the same thing high school kids had been doing for decades. So now every new car comes off the production line just that way.
Fit and Finish:
Quite good in class which tends to be typical of Japanese cars.
Cost:
Excellent price to value.
Conveniences and comfort:
The most evident difference I see from the Ford Fiesta I owned and this SX4 is the many power features that were not readily available back then. Of course one of today’s competitors to the SX is in fact the new Ford Fiesta re-introduced recently. It is equally as nice as this SX4.
We handed our first Fiesta down to our daughter as a graduation gift for not flunking out or getting pregnant and having to drop out. (just kidding, she was a good student and earned the car). Our son bought his own car at 15 and a half, if that tells you anything. Of course boys are not as good in high school as girls because boys are more interested in cars and girls than doing homework.
Consumer Recommendation:
Beat the rush and buy a small car now before the rapid rise of gas prices that are imminent in the near future. It’s possible people will demand we drill and use up some of the 200 years worth of oil we have right here in the USA.
Recognized Competition:
Suzuki SX4 $13-19,000, Chevrolet Aveo $12-15,000, Dodge Caliber $17-20,000, Ford Fiesta $13-17,000, Ford Focus $17-20,000, Honda Fit $15-19,000, Hyundai Accent $10-15,000, Hyundai Elantra $15-20,000, Jeep Compass $15-25,000, Jeep Patriot $16-24,000, Kia Forte $15-19,000, Kia Rio $12-16,000, Mazda3 $16-23,000, Nissan Versa $10-17,000, Toyota Corolla $16-18,000, Toyota Yaris $13-14,000.
Good News:
Fun to drive, economical, roomier than the size implies.
Bad News:
Sun visors don’t extend.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 150 hp inline 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 17” alloy wheels, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability program, traction control, 8 standard air bags front side and side curtain bags front and rear, tire pressure monitor, LATCH child anchor system with rear safety locks, keyless entry, fog light5s, air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, audio with CD/ MP3, Cruise control and tilt leather wrapped steering wheel mounted audio controls, trip computer, fold flat split rear seats, rear window defroster and wiper.
Gas Stats:
$3.31/ Gal avg. Feb 7, 2011
for more information.
22 City and 30 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $16,499.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2011 – An Automotive Love Affair
2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4X4 (333)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4X4. This is essentially an Explorer with a pickup bed rather than its SUV cousin with the cargo area inside. Size wise I see it a lot like the Ford F150 Super Crew. This Sport Trac however, has a shorter wheelbase by 13-inchs. I didn’t measure the bed of the truck but the inside legroom is almost identical between the two, so my sense is that the bed is about a foot shorter too.
The extender device used with the tailgate down gives additional length, but if your cargo is small it could be a problem because things could slip through the back that is not solidly enclosed. That of course is the limitation of its use. This Explorer will have lots of application for those who prefer a smaller pickup but also want to transport more people.
Handling & Performance:
The small size makes this a delight to run around in and also is quite responsive with the 205 horsepower V6.
Styling:
The styling is “Today” and I believe it will appeal to those active outdoors people who might be looking at the Xterra, for example. I question the addition of the rail type running board step on both of these vehicles that seem to be more of a styling statement than a useful feature of a real running board.
Fit and Finish:
For a pickup truck, likely to see extra dirty duty, this Explorer is more like a passenger car in its detailing. I have to point out that American manufacturers are simply getting better in this area. They must be acutely aware of how the Japanese have kicked our butts for years in workmanship and attention to detail. Their workers have a work ethic that is still unspoiled by success. This Ford shows that disparity between workers has changed now and we’re in another fight for our economic lives and we’ve proved that war unites us and “we’re back”. We can thank the Japanese for that wakeup call.
Conveniences:
You get all the comforts of home and this Ford left me wanting for nothing. I got a lot of use from the rear power window with three positions and it’s amazing how the little things count in making the driving experience more enjoyable.
Cost:
Sticker shock hit me right off the bat. I like to have the four doors, but I don’t want to pay for them. Does that sound familiar?
Consumer Recommendation:
I liked all the competition in this class and they are competitively priced, even if all a little too much. You should drive all three, as I did and you’ll find the one that feels best to you. It would be tough for me to choose. Brother John and I owned an auto repair shop for years and for the tough jobs around his ranch, he feels Dodge is the way to go. All things being equal, I’d have to buy American too.
The Competition:
Dodge Dakota 13,910-22,370, Nissan Frontier $11,699-24,399.
Good News:
Good size option, plenty of power, utility pickup bed for a thousand and one uses.
Bad News:
None with the exception of the poor gas consumption. I heard it said that if we got just one mpg better on our cars we wouldn’t need to use the oil reserve in Alaska. Can that be true? If you know, email me and I’ll share your comments with other readers. It’s about time we demanded better from a product that has become a necessity to us all.
Standard Equipment:
4.0 liter V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, remote power mirrors, rear split folding bench seat, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, power rear window, stereo with cassette and CD, front disc and rear drum antilock brakes, locking tailgate.
Gas Stats:
15 City and 19 Highway MPG.
Pricing
MSRP $24,435
2011 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan (851)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 4-door sedan.
Remember when Studebaker was on the scene and people complained that you couldn’t tell whether it was coming or going because the front looked just like the rear end. I remember it mostly because my grandmother, born in Sicily before the turn of the 20th Century, visited us in California and thought we had weird cars here. In those days cars were distinctive for sure, but more important there were fewer brands so you weren’t confused by several hundred models. They were either Ford, GM or Chrysler cars. Today the computer kicks out pretty generic ho-hum similar looking cars. In the case of this Lancer, the grill is nearly the same as the Audi A4 turned upside down. Who did the design first I don’t know, but they are frightfully the same.
Opinion:
More observations about posted speed limits. While driving up State Highway 99 through the central valley of California I was reminded posted speeds are 70 mph in most areas. I have made that trip a lot since I have family and business in Southern Oregon. What I have observed is that traffic moves along at about 75-80 mph. Not much different from average commuter speeds in Southern California where the posted speed limit on the freeway is 65 mph.
There is a comfort zone in speed that drivers feel in control and the vast majority move along in packs at 75-80 irrespective of the posted limit. The bad guys can choose their prey at will because we’re all exceeding posted speed limits. Do you think there is a method to the madness of the law makers who set those limits?
In response to my belief that limits should be raised encouraged Bill says (summarized):
“I think current speed limits are just fine… (more importantly) Our highways are in great need of repair, and cause much wear on vehicles that drivers are not aware of, steel belts of tires broken from pot holes, wheels out of round, suspension damage, wheel alignment, shock and strut damage…
What about our growing population from south of the border and around the world, what kind of driving skills do they bring? Yes modern vehicles have many safety features… I argue that if the speed limit was 75 mph, drivers would drive 85/90 mph and while I’m not a Al Gore fan, after 80/85 mph fuel consumption goes sky high… As my wife say’s “If you are in that big of a hurry, leave sooner”. At the end of your article it says, “buckle up and drive safely”. How can driving faster be safer?
My whole point was that the limits are artificially low and serve only to raise money. Moving the limits up to what people persist on driving respects the will of the people, in spite of the obscene fines.
Handling & Performance:
Lancer provides just adequate power at 148 hp mostly because of the manual shifting. The low center of gravity provides excellent cornering.
Styling:
In my opinion Mitsubishi cars are mostly designed for the younger driver which means they just don’t fit the over 40+ group. I wanted to see if was just me or is it a fact. The study noted below seems to support my feeling.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Well priced compact sedan.
Conveniences and comfort:
Nothing special, but the important features like traction and stability control are included.
Consumer Recommendation:
A new study recently completed by TrueCar.com, showed that Mitsubishi, Mazda and Volkswagen have the highest concentration of younger buyers. The study was completed in May 2010 and looked at the last full year of available data.
The brands with the highest percentage of buyers 18 to 34, is topped by Mitsubishi (18.3%), with its young skewing list of models that includes the Lancer and the Eclipse. Mazda (18%), with the popular Mazda3 and Mazda6, and Volkswagen (17.6%), which features the list topping GTI and Jetta, were next with Nissan (15.6%) and Mini (15%) rounding out the top 5.
Recognized Competition:
Mitsubishi Lancer $15-27,000, Audi S4 $47-49,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $15-25,000, Ford Focus $17-20,000, Honda Civic $16-25,000, Hyundai Elantra $15-20,000, Kia Forte $15-19,000, Mazda3 $16-23,000, Nissan Sentra $16-20,000, Subaru Impreza $17-20,000, Toyota Corolla $16-18,000, Volkswagen Golf $18-24,000, Volkswagen GTI $24-30,000.
Good News:
Well price, fun to drive, good safety features and very good fuel economy numbers.
Bad News:
A little under powered. You’d need to move to Ralliart for 237 hp with a price of about $27,000.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 148 horsepower inline 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front Macpherson strut, rear multilink suspension, 4-wheel ABS front disc and rear drum brakes with electronic brake force distribution, front stabilizer bar, front and side curtain airbags with drivers knee airbag, LATCH child seat system, tire pressure monitor, engine immobilizer with anti-theft system, stability and traction control, air conditioning, height adjustable column, power steering with wheel mounted cruise and audio controls, multi information display, audio with CD/MP3 w/ 4-speakers, 6-way adjustable driver seat, 60/40 split fold down rear seatback, power windows, locks and mirrors, 2 12 volt outlets, remote keyless entry and auto headlights.
Gas Stats:
$3.33/ Gal avg. Jan 29, 2011
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
24 City and 33 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $16,395.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2011 – An Automotive Love Affair
2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS (850)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS Sedan. How can you NOT be impressed with Korean cars. This is the Japan of 30 years ago. In fact some Japanese cars are built there. Cost of labor in Japan has skyrocketed so it makes good business sense. I don’t know if they have China build any as we do because they have never been friends.
Fuel economy is wonderful and the car overall has to be a winner in the future as well as now. Consider it gets better fuel economy than the Toyota Camry (to pick the top dog competition) and has a better warranty.
Opinion:
As I truck down the highway it always occurs to me that if Cal Trans could post average speed for the next several miles we could set our cruise controls for that and solve several problems. On the other hand if they wait (as they will if they even consider our driving safety) perhaps the newer Nav systems could do it for them. My contention is that if you did set the average speed there would be less accidents, less stress, fewer tickets and you would get there at exactly the same time… unless you can fly over the traffic.
A reminder one more time – don’t speed because as one Sheriff Lieutenant told me, they are stepping up the quota for tickets big time. You know – job protection and a failing state government. Doubtful it will matter because when the states file bankruptcy cops will be cut with so many other useless services. Don’t be too quick to tell me I’m wrong (as some cops have) – when’s the last time a civil servant helped you? I can take care of myself thank you, which is what you have to do anyway because they are never around when you really need them. All the rest of the time they are writing $300-500 tickets that few can afford. The state would rather raise our taxes than cut expenses. Shame on them.
Handling & Performance:
Typical sedan but the turning radius is good. It struggles for power but it gets the job done.
Styling:
What a pretty car. I couldn’t believe the price as it looks far more expensive. With a bit more insulation from road noise and weight and you wouldn’t know it wasn’t a Lexus at twice the money. Curb weight is only 3161 lbs., as compared to Toyota Camry for example at 500 lbs., heavier. I might be willing to give up a couple of mpg for the added weight to this Sonata. I’ll have to think about that.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
Outstanding.
Conveniences and comfort:
A huge trunk is appreciated and overall it is quite roomy, which is what a large car is all about, but for the money it is also a pretty luxurious looking car that is comfortable as well.
Consumer Recommendation:
Don’t hesitate. This is a great buy today and since the price will surely rise on all Korean cars it will hold its value and resale will be much better than other expensive cars. But this pricing won’t last, because it is simple economics and supply and demand will push up the price.
Recognized Competition:
Sonata $19-27,000, Acura TSX $30-38,000, Buick LaCrosse $27-34,000, Buick Regal $26-29,000, Chevrolet Malibu $22-27,000, Ford Fusion $20-29,000, Ford Taurus $25-38,000, Honda Accord $21-32,000, Kia Optima $20-26,000, Mazda6 $20-29,000, Mitsubish Galant $22-24,000, Nissan Altima $20-30,000, Nissan Maxima $31-34,000, Subaru Legacy $20-31,000, Suzuki Kizashi $20-27,000, Toyota Camry $20-29,000, Volkswagen Jetta $15-24,000.
Good News:
Great price and great fuel economy along with great styling.
Bad News:
A little light weight and more road noise than necessary.
Standard Equipment:
2.4 liter 198 HP 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing, 6-speed auto trans with Shifttronic, traction and stability controls, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist and force distribution, front and side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring, 16” wheels, remote keyless entry with alarm, power heated mirrors, power windows & locks, cloth seating, 60/40 split folding rear seat, tilt & telescopic steering column and wheel mounted cruise, audio and phone controls, air conditioning, audio with CD/MP3 w/ 6-speakers, XM satellite, iPod, Aux., & USB ports, Bluetooth phone, trip computer, lane change signal assist.
Gas Stats:
$3.33/ Gal avg. Jan 16, 2011
for more information.
22 City and 35 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $20,195.
2011 Mazda RX-8 (849)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Mazda RX-8 sports car. The RX-8 is a fun coupe that revs smoothly thanks to the unique Rotary engine, and the ride is sports car impressive. Handling is agile and the steering is communicative – meaning you can sense the road through the power assist. Although the Rotary engine is smooth, fuel economy is disappointing because I expected more.
The Rotary Engine – Advantages:
Mechanical simplicity – far fewer parts than a piston engine that cuts manufacturing costs and decreased weight without valves, camshaft, rocker arms, timing belts or flywheel. That leads to less and easier repairs. Rotary engines were used early on to power aircraft due to high power-to-weight ratio. Rotary means less vibration and it will continue to run for a time, whereas a piston engine will stop running immediately under similar stresses.
Disadvantages:
Leakage between engine chambers is common resulting in a loss of efficiency over time. They are not expected to last as long as traditional reciprocating piston engines and design includes burning small amounts of engine oil, thus requiring more frequent checking and adding oil.
Applications:
A safer choice for aircraft and preferred by many in sports and racing cars, (notable in Mazda’s RX series) due to being able to run at high rpm and produce more power.
Other applications preferring a smooth operation include go-karts, personal watercraft, gas generators, motorcycles and chainsaws.
Read more at http://www.ehow.com/about_5113539_pros-amp-cons-rotary-engine.html#ixzz1BDjWyciA
Opinion:
Putting yourself in Harm’s Way – don’t do it on the highway where your full attention is imperative. I try to drive defensively and encourage you to do the same.
Be aware of where you are, in relation to other drivers, and avoid putting yourself in places that box you in, or where you can’t be seen. No one wants to have an accident – that’s why they are call accidents. Consider that if another driver makes a move in a panic, without being able to see you in their blind spots or is drunk, asleep or whatever you must be able to react to avoid an accident. It is not a case of if it will happen but ‘when’, because it WILL happen.
Handling & Performance:
The RX-8 is agile but not the quickest horse in the barn. But overall this 1.3 liter rotary engine is impressive in design and performance, in that it develops 232 horsepower out of only 1.3 liters.
Styling:
Sporty and low slung gives it superb handling, but for the same reason you’ll struggle to get in and out of either front or rear seats. The rear-hinged rear doors make it far easier to enter and exit the back seat albeit the space is suited best for little people.
That’s not a bad design but a simple fact for any sports car. Sports car enthusiasts understand that design and although my first assumption is that buyers must surely be younger. Not true. Older less agile folks overlook the inconvenience common to these little high performance vehicles.
According to Sports Car Marketing 54% of their readers have a net worth in excess of $2 million and 60% have an annual household income of $250,000 or more. Subscribers are serious buyers – 41% own five or more collector cars and a staggering 73% say they will buy another collector car in the next year. The conclusion they make is that high net worth readers are not just lookers but rather they are Buyers.
An interesting read on the Sports Car Market can be found at http://www.sportscarmarket.com/about/advertising/circulation-a-demographics .
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
A pricey class but the RX-8 may be the best bang for your buck.
Conveniences and comfort:
Once you get into the driver seat you will appreciate the ease of accessing all features that are numerous. If you fly a small aircraft you will appreciate the sports car experience. Bigger is better only when you need to tote a lot of folks and stuff around. Ilona and I took a road trip in a Mazda Miata MX-5 that turned into one of the more memorable travel experiences. Even further back in my younger family travel years four of us including all luggage loaded on the rear trunk rack of a Corvette made for a vacation not soon forgotten.
Consumer Recommendation:
The Rotary engine was designed in 1954 by German Engineer Felix Wankel. And although it has been embraced by few automobile manufacturers it should not dissuade you from owning this unique sports car. If the Rotary Engine is good enough for the airplane I fly it’s good enough for my car.
Recognized Competition:
Mazda RX-8 $27-32,000, Audi TT $38-49,000, BMW 1-Series $29-41,000, BMW Z4 $47-62,000, Chevrolet Camaro $23-40,000, Chevrolet Corvette $49-120,000, Dodge Challenger $23-41,000, Ford Mustang $22-38,000, Hyundai Genesis Coupe $22-32,000, Infiniti G Convertible $45-57,000, Infiniti G Coupe $36-50,000, Mercedes Benz SLK $48-53,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $19-33,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution $34-37,000, Nissan Z $31-41,000, Volkswagen GTI $24-30,000.
Good News:
Fun to drive, well priced in class and tried and true unique power plant.
Bad News:
Only fair fuel economy.
Standard Equipment:
1.3 liter 232 horsepower rotary engine, 6-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, traction control, 18” aluminum allow wheels, power mirrors, Xenon headlights, fog lights, auto on/off lights, climate control, 300 watt Bose stereo with 6-disc CD changer and 9-speakers, power windows & locks, leather seats, 8-way power driver seat with 3 memory settings, heated front seats, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, keyless entry, sport tuned suspension, electronic assisted direct drive steering, front wishbone and rear multi-link suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, rear window defogger, rain sensing wipers, power moon roof, rear bucket seats with trunk pass through, Bluetooth phone, SIRIUS satellite radio with 6 month subscription, front and side and side curtain airbags and tire pressure monitor.
Gas Stats:
$3.33/ Gal avg. Jan 17, 2011
for more information.
16 City and 22 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $32,265.
2011 Frontier 4X4 Pro4X King Cab (847)
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Nissan Frontier 4X4 Pro4X Small Pickup truck with a King Cab (secret code for no room for the Queen). Other than the unimpressive fuel economy it is a very nice truck to drive. It is very comfortable and although it only has small jump seats in the rear of the King Cab model I tested, it IS after all classed as a small truck. You can move up to a 4-door for about $4,000 more if you need 4 real seats.
But if you intend to use it for off road-ing the V6 with 261 horsepower may appeal to most as more capable. I guess there is no substitute for more power and the 4 cylinder 152 hp engine will leave you wanting in some situations. However, serious off roaders will tell you more power is not necessary but rather nimble attributes are more important. The off road courses I have experienced, small Jeeps are the most effective climbers over and around and under obstacles.
Opinion:
Posted speed limits of 65 mph are archaic and should be changed. What’s your opinion?
Roads in today’s world are designed for a comfy ride at speeds far greater than the posted 65 MPH. With such well designed roads coupled with the evolving design and safety features of the cars that travel them, it is high time we increased the posted limits to 75 mph. That is the average speed anyway in America, unless of course, there is a California Cowboy lurking around the next corner or hiding behind the proverbial ‘billboard’. Why do we all do it…. BECAUSE IT IS SAFE. Sorry I didn’t mean to yell. But I have driven the Autobahn’s in Europe where cars travel at speeds well over 100 mph on a normal day, particularly in Germany, and I have personally driven for long stretches at over 125 mph.
I will remind you that these speed limits in America were made for cars with mechanical brakes and suspension systems that were very unsophisticated and dangerous at any speed. That simply is no longer the case, but the signs persist in telling us that the maximum speed that is safe is 65. I say BS and it is just a way to generate revenue.
Hell, a little over 100 years ago the ‘so called’ experts thought you would surely die if you traveled over 50 mph because the body couldn’t take such speed. Reminiscent today of such expert morons like that bozo Al Gore who conned folks into believing they were the cause of global warming and thus he bilked them out of a lot of money to grow his personal wealth by over $100 million in just a few years after leaving the VP spot. Yet, the polar ice caps on Mars have also been melting and there are no SUV’s on Mars that we know of.
Handling & Performance:
It’s a truck but the lousy turning radius is not common to all small trucks. Not a bad thing, I suppose, but a nuisance none-the-less. It is plenty powerful which explains the lousy fuel consumption. A friend’s very large Ford one ton pickup with 4 wheel drive gets about the same fuel economy, but I expected better from this ‘Small’ size Nissan Frontier pickup.
Styling:
My first truck was a 1955 Ford ½ ton pickup and that style is classic. Designers gave up classic, unique and different styling long ago. Cars are far more aerodynamic than they ever were, but what can you do with a truck to make it streamlined when it is designed for work and not beauty. But still most trucks are darn nice looking outside and carlike inside. My ’55 Ford had no carpet and cardboard like panels on the doors and hand crank windows. 4 Wheel Drive was not practical until the 1970’s although it had been invented as early as 1893. It began to take off in the 1980’s and today is commonplace of course.
Fit and Finish:
Trucks have come a long way from the early days when close tolerances were not tolerated. These were work vehicles and needed lots of space between component parts as they would need to twist and give with loads. Today close fitting joints are nearly as much a part of the truck as they are in passenger cars.
Cost:
Most of the competition is closely priced and cost more than they need to. As we’ve said before, truck based chassis vehicles are more profitable than passenger cars. Demand has pushed sales of trucks and SUV’s to about 40% of the vehicles you see on the highway, and thus the price has followed demand.
Conveniences and comfort:
This truck is loaded with not only creature comforts, it is well equipped with all the high tech safety features for vehicle control in the 21st century.
Consumer Recommendation:
Don’t ya just love a small menu with few choices from which to select – so you can apply the KISS principal.
Recognized Competition:
Nissan Frontier $18-32,000, Chevrolet Colorado $17-29,000, Ford Ranger $18-26,000, GMC Canyon $17-30,000, Honda Ridgeline $29-37,000, Ram Dakota $23-34,000, Suzuki Equator $18-31,000, Toyota Tacoma $16-28,000.
Good News:
Perfect size truck for most non-commercial jobs, and thus car like comfort and powerful as well.
Bad News:
Only fair mileage, tiny rear jump seats, so you’ll need to move up to the Crew Cab if you want 4 doors, and that’s a few grand more.
Standard Equipment:
4.0 liter 261 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, shift on the fly 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case with 4 high and 4 low, electronic locking rear differential, power assisted steering, independent front suspension and multi-leaf rear suspension with solid axle, Bilstein off road high pressure shocks, 4-wheel ABS vented disc brakes, 4-wheel active brake limited slip, and electronic brake force distribution, dynamic vehicle control, tire pressure monitoring, security system with immobilizer, hill start assist and hill descent control,16” off road machine finish alloy wheels, front and side and roof mounted side curtain airbags, LATCH tether system for children, reclining front bucket seats, 8-way manual driver seat with lumbar support and fold flat passenger seat, tilt column with leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and cruise and radio controls, cruise control, audio with CD, MP3 and XM Satellite radio, Bluetooth phone, trip computer, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power windows and auto locking locks, cargo light, fog lights, power mirrors, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates, sliding rear window with lock, utility track channel system with 4 adjustable tie down cleats, bed rail caps, detachable tailgate with lock, front and rear splash guards and front tow hook.
Gas Stats:
$3.29/ Gal avg. Jan 4, 2010
for more information.
14 City and 19 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $28,870.