About: Autolove

This week we’re looking at yet another Toyota in a series of one of the survivors of this world wide economic melt down – the new 2009 Toyota Venza FWD 4 cylinder SUV.

The survivors are a testimony to the free economic system that rewards prudence leading to profit. As sad as it is to see one time leaders of the industry fall, they do so because they were irresponsible. They allowed unions to push labor to over $75/ hour while companies like Toyota did the same job with $45 / hour labor. Not hard to see how good management with not so common, common sense win out in the end. It is clear to see Unions have outlived their usefulness.

Opinion:

Is there any question that today’s cars are far better and safer than ever? Of course not – yet the speed limits remain out of touch with the changing world. Clearly we all know everyone exceeds the speed limit including police officers whether on or off duty, not because posted speeds are unsafe but rather an opportunistic way to raise your taxes. Our men in blue however have a get out of jail free card – their badge! – so when they get stopped while off duty they simply flash that badge of honor. You guys and gals out there who work the highways know what I mean. It is they who are granted professional courtesy by the other tax collectors. Us, well we can simply pay for the ticket which is routinely $200 plus as well as increased insurance premiums because we have real jobs.

With the exception of foolish drivers most drivers observe the rule of caution and safety according to conditions. The foolish will be bad drivers at any speed.

Artificial maximums purport to improve fuel economy and safety but really only serve to raise money to support even more traffic control cops. Consider the Autobahns of Europe where two lane highways accommodate driving at double the speeds in America. I know, I’ve driven them at 125 mph and the drivers there are better than here because they have to be. Licenses to drive demand more and conditions of higher speeds demands more as well. So much for a speed limit of 65 when conditions permit much more. I suggest we cut the number of cops and let them get ‘real’ jobs where they too could produce some goods and services that add to the GNP / GDP and not consume the labor of others.

Handling & Performance:

Generally a very nice addition to the line up for Toyota. I didn’t however like the jerky accelerator pedal and brakes that grab. The inline 4-cylinder engine produces 182 hp and it was just fine and allows 2-3 mpg better than the optional V6 4X2 and 3-4 mpg better than the 268 hp V6 4X4 if you prefer more power or want a 4-WD.

Styling:

Very nice looking. Good job guys. And everyone I spoke with about the car all agree we love the Root Beer color.

Conveniences and comfort:
Auto air conditioning (climate control) where you set the temp and forget it. You don’t appreciate it until you drive without it. Auto up and down windows are cool too but I can live without them.

The tire pressure monitoring system is definitely not perfect. They need to improve that before I’d opt to pay for that feature. I have found it in error more than it is helpful.

Fit and Finish:

Toyota attention to detail. Another job well done.

Cost:

Competitive in class and as much as $15,000 less than other players. Not worth the money spread for those SUVs.

Consumer Recommendation:

Well priced and my 2nd and 3rd choice would be Dodge Journey and Chevrolet Equinox and I’ll throw in Subaru Outback for good measure.

Recognized Competition:
Toyota Venza $26-29,000, Infiniti EX $32-37,000, Nissan Murano $28-37,000, Pontiac Torrent $25-31,000, Acura RDX $34-37,000, Saturn Vue $23-31,000, Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000, Saab 9-3 SportCombi $32-45,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $22-31,000, Honda CR-V $21-29,000, Audi A4 Avant $34,850, Mercury Mariner $23-28,000, Ford Edge $27-36,000, Dodge Journey $21-29,000, Chevrolet Equinox $22-30,000, Subaru Outback $20-32,000 BMW 3-Series Sports Wagon $35-37,000.

Good News:

Sweet design, decent fuel economy, competitively priced.

Bad News:

Jerky throttle and grabby brakes.

Standard Equipment:

2.7 liter 4-cylinder 182 hp engine, 6-speed auto transmission, 19” alloy wheels, electronic power steering, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, stability control, front and side air bags with side curtain bags and driver knee airbag, LATCH anchor and child tether system, tire pressure monitoring system, halogen headlights, day running lights & fog lights, roof mounted radio and SAT antenna, front variable and rear intermittent wipers, climate control with filter, audio with 6 CD changer & Satellite, MP3 player holder and wired, reclining fold flat 60/40 rear seat, power multi adjustable driver seat, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with controls, power windows with auto up and down, remote keyless entry and cruise control.

Gas Stats:

$2.97/ Gal avg. June 27, ‘09
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

21 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $25,975.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2009 – An Automotive Love Affair

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD V6 SUV. Friend Mark who owns a Toyota Sequoia says the Highlander is his next car, but he doesn’t want a Hybrid. He’s been told to stay away from Hybrids. But from the research I’ve done and the absence of negative press I believe his concerns are not well founded. Time will tell but with all the incentives and great warranties it is comforting enough for me to take the chance. Look at Toyota Prius for example. I know several people who own them and not one complaint of horror stories and they have been around for a while now.

Correction:

Before I get on with the Highlander I have a correction on a recent review of the Toyota Yaris. Sam B. at Toyota called me to say he read the column I had written about the Yaris but the photography was of the Honda Fit. Can’t be Sam, but I’ll look into it! But Sam was right. Looking at the photos “side by each” and it’s easy to see how they could get switched.

Well, this Highlander Hybrid can’t be mistaken for much else, or could it? After a while they all blend together so it’s clear that manufacturers are keenly aware of what people like and don’t like in design. I just wonder if they are shooting themselves in the foot when they are conservative and play it safe with design. Ahh, but what about the Scion? That was a bold new look. Ok, ya got me.

But the 1950s and 1960s kind of design is what I’m referring to. There were ‘fins’ and bigger fins and grills that were so distinct you couldn’t miss what make it was that had just gone by no matter how fast it was traveling, or the split second glimpse you got. You knew if it were a Ford, Chevy or Chrysler – or European of some kind. Japanese cars didn’t exist in America then and they were just a budding industry in Japan back then. Korea was still producing bicycles shortly after they discovered the wheel. The world has come a long way baby in 50 years.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent. This Highlander is fast and smooth and quiet.

Styling:

Clean lines and attractive is what defines the Highlander. It comes in either a 5 passenger or 7 with 3rd row seating.

Fit and Finish:

Very nice – no complaints here.

Cost:

In the hunt.

Consumer Recommendation:

One has to wonder about the technology and the Hybrid cost of maintenance and repair over time. I like the way the Hybrid drive train is transparent but I also agree with those who express concern for what cost may be required after a few years.

There is some comfort in that several states offer tax deductions and incentives for hybrid purchases. The rebates vary from state to state, but when combined with the available federal tax credits, they can add up to substantial savings.

All the hybrid-specific components in every hybrid vehicle currently on the market are covered under warranty for eight years/100,000 miles or 10 years/150,000 miles, depending on the state, but these components have been shown to have a much longer lifespan in testing. Toyota, for example, reports that its battery packs have lasted for more than 180,000 miles in testing.

In ordinary vehicles the brake pads need to be changed regularly. But the hybrids’ regenerative braking systems and their reduced heat means their brake pads typically last much longer. Toyota says “We’ve seen customers go 85,000 miles before they needed to replace their brakes on their Prius vehicles” for example.

Recognized Competition:

Toyota Highlander Hybrid $35-41,000, Lexus RX 400h $42-43,000, Buick Enclave $35-39,000, GMC Yukon Hybrid $51-54,000, Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid $50-53,000, Mercury Mariner Hybrid $30-32,000, Ford Escape Hybrid $30-34,000, Dodge Durango Hybrid $45,040, Chrysler Aspen Hybrid $45,270, Subaru Tribeca $30-34,000.

Good News:

Nice design, fast, smooth and a very comfortable ride.

Bad News:
Uncertainty as to repair cost over time.

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter V6 209 hp gas engine, hybrid synergy drive system, electric continuously variable transmission, electronic power steering, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, tow prep package, vehicle stability with traction control, front air bags and driver knee airbag, front side airbags and rear roll sensing side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, 2nd row child seat anchors and tethers, power heated mirrors, in glass antenna, air conditioning, rear back up camera, audio with CD, power windows and locks, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, 8 way driver and 4-way passenger seats and rear 40/20/40 split folding seat.

Gas Stats:

$2.97/ Gal avg. June 20, ‘09
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

27 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $34,700.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2009 – An Automotive Love Affair

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2009 Toyota Matrix 4-door small wagon. I’m a fan of Toyota but some of the product is not to my taste. This is one of those very capable cars that I just can’t warm up to or that I would run right out and buy one.

Provincial might explain my indifference to the car. I always got excited getting behind the wheel of brother John’s Ferrari’s or our ’55 Porsche Speedster or Lamborghini. But when we get into a utility commuter or truck it is because we have work to do. Exotic’s are for the fun of it. We shouldn’t really expect to be wowed by our daily drivers. Last week on the other hand I was very impressed with the VW Jetta small sportwagon and really feel I could own that car and enjoyed driving it every day. But if it weren’t in my budget at 25% more money than this Toyota Matrix I would change my tune a bit since you can’t fairly compare the two. I guess I would opt to budget more rather than settle.

The real test of what you buy however is that the Need must fall within your Budget.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent on the Crest Test but I got the distinct impression other drivers had a need to pass me. I could only conclude they thought this was a wimpy car unable to keep up. It was an odd feeling because I was keeping up with traffic. Size does make a difference I’ve been told and we all know that applies to cars as well. I guess what I mean is that if I were in a Corvette they would back off knowing the Vette could chew them up and spit them out. Remember Rodney Dangerfield who’d constantly remind us he got no respect.

At the end of the day the overall road-ability of this AWD little car is exceptional and it handled the mountain curves with relative ease. If I were interested in this size car I would look at the Yaris.

Styling:

Not my thing but it isn’t ugly either.

Fit and Finish:
Good.

Cost:

Competitive in the field below.

Consumer Recommendation:

This is a good field of challengers albeit a large one and difficult to go through. I’ve tested them all and I break them down into Classic (HHR and PT Cruiser), Off road (Jeep) and Unusual (Sion and MINI). Everything else are Commuters.

Recognized Competition:

Toyota Matrix $16-22,000, Pontiax Vibe $16-21,000, Chevrolet HHR $19-25,000, VW Jetta SportWagen $19-26,000, VW Rabbit $16-19,000, Nissan Versa $10-16,000, Mazda5 $18-23,000, Mazda3 $15-22,000, Jeep Patriot $18-24,000, Jeep Compass $18-25,000, Dodge Caliber $16-25,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $18-25,000, Honda Fit $15-19,000, MINI Clubman $20-31,000, Subaru Impreza $17-35,000, Suzuki SX4 Crossover $16-19,000, Kia Rio 5 $13-14,000, Kia Rondo $17-22,000, Kia Soul $13-17,000, Hyundai Elantra Touring $18-19,000, Sion xB $16-17,000.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy, good commuter, handles well.

Bad News:
Provincial styling.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4 cylinder 158 hp engine, 4-speed auto transmission, all wheel drive, torque control electric power steering, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes with brake force distribution and brake assist, front and side air bags and front and rear side curtain airbags, child rear door locks with anchor system, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring, halogen lights, power mirrors, intermittent front and rear wipers, roof rack, air conditioner, audio with CD, WMA/MP3 player, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, front passenger fold flat and rear 60/40 split rear seat, 115 volt AC outlet, power windows and locks and keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

$2.95/ Gal avg. June 14, ‘09
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

20 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $20,400.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2009 – An Automotive Love Affair

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2009 Scion xB 5-door small wagon. Like me lots of people I talked with about the Scion felt the early versions were really ugly. The sharp boxy edges just didn’t do it for most folks. Today’s more rounded edges soften the look and less like a gang bangers car. The gay community adopted the Saab for unknown reasons and it is interesting how cars have become an integral part of our lives and how they often define us.

The Scion has blended into the competition a little more with the 2009 and in fact it is much like its cousin the Honda Element. It sits even lower than the Element and in part the low to the ground design of both is what puts them in the Wagon category rather than an SUV class.

What surprised me from the outset with the two vehicles is the broad acceptance of the design. Young and old alike have embraced the look. I believe for different reasons however. Young people like to be different – period! Older folks like the practicality of the design. When the Element came on the scene Honda felt it would appeal to the older buyer since it was easy to get in and out of. It was simple and could even be hosed out for easy cleaning. Just open the doors on both sides and the ‘suicide door’ configuration make it look like you could drive a truck thru it.

I guess the generations are not as far apart as you might think.

Opinion:

As car companies come and go cars have always been repaired and maintained. The history of the automobile should help us to get a grip on the fact that losing dealerships may in fact be a Good Thing. Have you ever experienced the cost to do anything at a dealership? Not a pretty picture at the check out counter. Bring more than one credit card because you shouldn’t carry that much cash around on your person.

As some of you know I experienced first hand the difference between the dealer and the independent repair facility. Why – because I was an owner of an independent mostly foreign and some domestic repair shop. We also had a body shop and I learned how BMW, Jag and Mercedes Benz owners would drop in as if we were an Oasis in the desert.

The point is simply this. If you have any trepidation about buying any car because they may not be around next year forget the worry – buy the car you want or need and know with confidence independents have been fixing cars abandoned by their parents for a hundred years now.

Handling & Performance:

The Scion is comfortable and has good stability in part because of the lower center of gravity. It is fast and because of its smooth ride you tend to drive faster than you should. That fact is sufficient reason why you always include ‘cruise control’ when you buy a car. Simply set the speed and forget it and you’ll avoid your, not so friendly, highway tax collectors.

Styling:

Another comparison where the Honda Element is more thoughtfully crafted than many similar vehicles is the rear ‘theater seating’. Scion doesn’t incorporate that design feature, and although it may seem like a small thing, when you try it you will love it. Correction – your passengers will love it.

Some Curb Weight comparisons: Scion 3026 lbs; Element 3352 lbs; PT Cruiser 3070; Kia Rio 2568 lbs; Chevrolet HHR 3155; Dodge Caliber 3052;

Small and large SUV examples: Ford Escape 3229 lbs; Cadillac Escalade 5511 lbs.

In the style department however the winner has to be the PT Cruiser from Chrysler. It simply stands out in the crowd and if you ask ‘mirror mirror on the wall…’ it is the prettiest one of all.

Fit and Finish:

Not bad and for this price point car it is quite good. You expect exceptional assembly from Japanese car makers and because they have set the bar so high the competition has met the challenge and none are really poorly assembled. To get to the really ‘exceptional’ level you must triple the price point, so I can’t get too excited about looser tolerances for the purchase price in this class.

Cost:

Very good car for the money.

Conveniences and comfort:

Very good.

Consumer Recommendation:

Nice selection to choose from in this economy class of small wagons. I’ve tested most but have not been in the Ford Transit Connect or the Nissan Cube. Good stuff.

Recognized Competition:

Scion xB $16-17,000, Pontiac Vibe $16-21,000, Mazda 5 $18-23,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $18-25,000, Honda Fit $15-19,000, Suzuki SX4 Crossover $16-19,000, Kia Rio5 $13-14,000, Kia Rondo $17-22,000, Nissan Versa $10-16,000, Kia Soul $13-17,000, Dodge Caliber $16-25,000, Ford Transit Connect $21-22,000, Nissan Cube $14-19,000, Chevrolet HHR  $19-25,000, Toyota Matrix $17-22,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, nice ride and well priced.

Bad News:

Light weight class that concern many.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 158 hp 4 cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, electronic power steering, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with brake force distribution, sport tuned independent MacPherson front strut and rear torsion beam suspension, stability control with traction control, front – side and side curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring, power mirrors, front and rear washer wipers, front bucket and rear split fold flat seats, cruise control, air conditioning, audio with CD, 6 speakers, iPod connector, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, privacy glass and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

Gas Stats:

$2.43/ Gal avg. May 14, ‘09
www.fueleconomy.gov