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

2008 Hyundai Elantra SE 4-door Sedan (725)

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2008 Hyundai Elantra SE 4-door Sedan (725)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Hyundai Elantra SE 4-door Sedan. Now that’s what I’m talking about Richard. I know you liked this one and everyone appreciates the fuel economy numbers. Good job Hyundai.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Korea 97%,

Assembly – Ulsan, Korea.

Class:  – Compact

Cars: – Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Genesis, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tiburon, Tucson and Veracruz.

Observation:

Many in the Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita and the Newhall Pass must travel CA 14 highway and the I5 to get almost anywhere in Los Angeles. And when there are problems on the highway we all have phones but we can’t call anyone to find out the latest information on road closures and related emergency situations. This was most noticeable October 13, 2008 with the mountain fires that closed the 118 and 210 highways.

But there is something you can do. If you tried to call the CHP or Cal Trans you would not have got the information you needed. 800 427 7623 is the road conditions number of Cal Trans. 323-982-4900 is the CHP Non-emergency Dispatch number. I suggest you put all of these numbers into your cell phone and be prepared. The Website for DOT is www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi and you can enter the highway number and get road conditions as well.

Officer Porter of the CHP Traffic Management Center advises they are available 24/7 at 323-259-2010. Naturally they would likely get overloaded if everyone had known this number. However, if there is a great need and the phones do get overloaded you would expect they would be smarter than the problem and direct you to a broadcast station to tune into to get that information or have a minute to minute update of the information vital to all those who use our highways.

And don’t be shy. We pay dearly for the CHP, Cal Trans / DOT (Department of Transportation).

Handling & Performance:

You won’t be breaking any records at the drag races but this 2 liter 138 horsepower engine is geared well and it handled the mountain Crest Test effortlessly.

Styling:

Basic in design but at this price point you gotta appreciate what they can do with a limited budget. The important thing to remember is that the South Korean labor market makes production of a great commuter possible for the money.

Fit and Finish:

Good in class.

Cost:

Well priced.

Features and Conveniences:

I think you’ll agree there are a lot of great functional features for a car in the price range which is not unusual for Korean cars.

Consumer Recommendation:

Resource – www.safercar.gov

I just finished testing the Chevrolet Cobalt and I’d look at that one for sure in this class. I’ve had good experience with the Toyota Corolla as well. But there are so many good cars in this category that you’ll have your work cut out for you to find the best one for your need. Price alone the Elantra is hard to beat but I’d look at the Cobalt, Saturn Ion and Focus in that order. Good luck.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Elantra $14-17,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Subaru Impreza $17-35,000, Nissan Sentra $16-20,000, Suzuki Forenza $14-15,000, Toyota Corolla $15-20,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $15-23,000, Scion tC $17,000, VW Jetta $17-24,000, Kia Spectra $13-16,000, Pontiac G5 $16-20,000, Ford Focus $15-15,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-26,000, Mazda 3 $14-21,000, Dodge Caliber $16-24,000, Honda Civic Hyrbid $24-27,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000.

Good News:

Good pricing and fuel economy with decent roomy trunk and rear seat.

Bad News:

Light weight.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 138 hp Inline 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, anti lock brake system, Electronic Stability control, front, side and side curtain airbags, 4-wheel independent suspension, 16” alloy wheels, tilt and telescopic steering column, air conditioning, power windows, locks & heated mirrors, remote keyless entry with alarm, audio with CD/ MP3 and 6 speakers, XM radio w/ 3 months included, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, trip computer, cruise control and fog lights.

Gas Stats:

$3.39/ Gal avg. October 14, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

25 City and 33 Highway MPG

www.safercar.gov  or    888-327-4236

Pricing:

MSRP $17,325.

2008 Honda Accord EXL (724)

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2008 Honda Accord EXL (724)

General Info:
Parts – US/Canadian 60%, Japan 25%,
Assembly – Marysville, Ohio, USA
Class:  – Compact
Cars: – Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Element, Fit,
Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, S2000.

“An Automotive Love Affair”
By Joseph Mavilia       2008 Honda Accord EXL
Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Honda Accord 2 Door EXL V6 NV
(Navigation). It is assembled in Marysville, Ohio, USA using parts from the
US and Canada 60%, and Japan 25%. It’s in the Compact class and Honda’s
lineup includes – Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic, Civic Hybrid, CR-V, Element,
Fit, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline and S2000. I’ve tested them all but I don’t
have to tell you this is the best looking Accord ever. Well, it is in my
opinion.

It was my pleasure to review the car in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Hopping on and off the ferries to the San Juan Islands off the coast of
Washington State we had the opportunity to cozy up to this lovely
automobile. It took us effortlessly, in part because of a great navigation
system, to romantic historic places like Port Angeles and Port Townsend,
Victoria BC and Orcus Island where the film Free Willie was made. Friend
Glenn, the FX guy, was the rescue diver on the filming. Lucky guy because
that is an enchanting island. From a mountain top on Orcus you get a 360
degree panoramic view and can see many of the Canadian San Juan’s and
Vancouver as well. I highly recommend the journey in any make auto, but this
Accord helped to make our trip special. The rain forest was very cool too
where we stopped on our drive down the coast to Astoria and the Columbia
River.

Handling & Performance:
Sweet, smooth, powerful, quiet are just some adjectives to describe this
lovely car.

Styling:
Bravo Honda. This is a car that Honda has a right to be really proud of.
Nice job guys.

Fit and Finish:
Excellent.

Cost:
Worth the price of admission.

Features and Conveniences:
If you read my column from time to time you’ll know that the most useful
feature in today’s cars is the Navigation system. I wouldn’t buy a car
without one. However, I will remind you that Garmin and other portables like
Tom-Tom can save you money and do essentially the same thing. Yesterday I
added Navigation to my Blackberry now with a Traffic Alert feature. Now I
can keep from getting lost even when I’m walking. At my age I can’t waste
time and it even helps me find a different route if the one I’m on is not
doing well.

Consumer Recommendation:

Resource – www.safercar.gov
<http://www.safercar.gov>
I suspect if you’ve read this far you know I’m impressed with this Honda
Accord. I did test the Hybrid version as well as the Civic / Hybrid and
these are wonderful cars. I could own this car but I can’t own all the cars
I’ve liked over the past 16 years of testing. But the Honda has never
disappointed me. This car is the top of the heap of all those listed below
and is priced to make the decision easy. Don’t misunderstand me, all listed
here are good cars but when I look at the beautiful styling I can’t help but
fall in love. It has a great “bod”, nice lines, clean, silky smooth ride and
comfortable to be with… the car as well as my Polish best friend. A Pole
and Italian in a Japanese car. Isn’t America great?

Recognized Competition:
Honda Accord $20-31,000, Chevrolet Monte Carlo $21-28,000, Pontiac Grand
Prix $22-29,000, VW Passat $24-38,000, Kia Optima $17-21,000.
2009 – Toyota Camry $19-29,000, Mitsubishi Galant $21-27,000, Hyundai Sonata
$19-27,000, Chevrolet Malibu $21-26,000, Buick LaCrosse $25-33,000, Saturn
Aura Hybrid $24,930, Saturn Aura $21-26,000, Pontiac G6 $20-31,000, Ford
Fusion $19-25,000, Mercury Milan $20-26,000, Mercury Sable $24-31,000,
Nissan Maxima $29-32,000, Subaru Legacy $21-35,000, Chevrolet Impala
$23-30,000, Ford Taurus $24-31,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Nissan Altima
$20-29,000, Dodge Avenger $19-25,000, Nissan Altima Hybrid $26,650.

Good News:
This is a 10 for me in all respects Dudley Moore and it doesn’t talk back.

Bad News:
I had no complaints.

Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 268 hp V6 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel power ABS
disc brakes, stabilizer bars, 100K mile tune ups, front side and side
curtain air bags, stability control, tire pressure monitoring system, remote
keyless entry, security and immobilizer system, child LATCH system,
Navigation w/voice recognition, hands free phone, leather trim, stereo w/6
CD/MP3, tilt & telescopic steering wheel with controls, climate control,
8-way power driver seat, heated front seats, power windows and locks, cruise
control, power moon roof, 18″ allow wheels, heated power mirrors and auto
on/off headlights.

Gas Stats:
$3.43/ Gal avg. October 7, ’08
www.fueleconomy.gov <http://www.fueleconomy.gov>
for more information.

17 City and 25 Highway MPG
www.safercar.gov <http://www.safercar.gov>
or 888-327-4236

Pricing:
MSRP $30,510.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
<mailto:joe@atthewheel.com>
Copyright (c) 2008 – An Automotive Love Affair

2008 Mazda RX-8 (723)

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2008 Mazda RX-8 (723)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda RX-8. As the demand for economical cars heats up the more people want to know what their options are. Obviously every class from top to middle to large will downsize from the recent past that bigger was better somehow. Years ago while I was in Japan smaller, efficient and practical was simply a way of life. By necessity or choice small vehicles hauled amazing loads and of course roads didn’t allow for large vehicles anyway. Well, it was their collective need and now it is becoming a need here in America as well.

The good news is that people tend to be emotionally closer when there is less abundance. In Japan I observed workers in a plant I visited playing softball and I thought how similar people were and I was angry at the leaders who let their hunger for power rule their lives. They were willing to sacrifice the common people to keep it. I was sad when I visited Hiroshima where this Mazda is built. I looked at the devastation and got angrier still.

Well as a result of the abundance from the spoils of war, the US people splurged after years of want from a depression and a long protracted war where sacrifice was the word of the day. Americans quickly became consumers while Germany and Japan were rebuilding with our money, of course. All World War II countries mentioned haven’t stopped consuming and have wanted for nothing, generally, for 60 years. Retired Dallas Cowboys star quarterback and then NFL TV color man on Monday Night Football “Dandy” Don Meredith at this point in the game would begin singing “The party’s over…”.

This coming period of want, which I suspect we all expect, is unlikely to continue for very long. We weathered the extended recession of about 10 years in the 90’s, and of course we came through the depression of the 1930’s even better for the experience.

Small cars will return to energize the market and car companies will simply have to shift their production lines to accommodate the needed change. Toyota, for example, shut down some product lines to retool for Prius. People will not only accept smaller cars but embrace them for lots of reasons. Once again cars will serve us instead of us being slaves to them. Perhaps then we’ll find spending less time making more money to pay for more and bigger will give way to spending more time with our families. Then we may rebuild family values and tell big government and big cars to take a hike.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 95%,

Assembly – Hiroshima, Japan

Class:  – Subcompact

Cars: – CX-7, CX-9, Mazda 3, 5 & 6, Mazdaspeed3 & 6, MX-5 Miata, RX-8, Tribute, Tribute Hybrid & Truck.

Handling & Performance:

Economics is changing the mood of people and their need for small cars is sure to improve their performance. And you’ll see big cars begin to downsize as well.

The Mazda is zippy and agile… Zoom Zoom will impress you with its 232 hp rotary engine coupled with the 6-speed manual transmission that shifts perfectly. And its sporty look helps to make this a winner. I believe however it will appeal very little to drivers over 40.

Styling:

Sporty and even if not practical with a very small rear seat they did add a nice touch to make it more accessible by providing a small rear door. It really does remove the criticism for me. But I must say, because of the door design you have to slam them so they close completely. That was annoying.

In addition, they didn’t spend enough time designing the seats for comfort. I’m not all that big but the cushions felt restrictive and thus uncomfortable. The fact that I was aware of the seat meant it was poorly designed.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Cost:

More than I expected. But with today’s value of the dollar, I don’t know what I expected. Secondly it is up against some pretty expensive competition.

Features and Conveniences:

The list of features that are standard are extensive and that accounts for some of the pricey-ness noted above.

Consumer Recommendation:

Resource – www.safercar.gov

The competition is all very capable, but some are clearly out of the price point. However from a performance to cost comparison this RX-8 does very well.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda RX-8 $26-32,000, Audi TT $35-46,000, VW R32 $32,990, Nissan 350Z $37-43,000, BMW Z4 $37-43,000, BMW 1 – Series $29-39,000, Lotus Elise $46-55,000. 2009 – Ford Mustang $20-34,000, Mercedes Benz SLK $45-64,000, Dodge Challenger $21-39,000, Honda S2000 $35-38,000.

Good News:

Small, sport car handling and 232 hp performance and thus fun to drive and the much underrated Rotary engine.

Bad News:

A bit pricey in my opinion and fuel economy is a negative and rear doors must be closed hard and that was annoying.

Standard Equipment:

1.3 liter 232 hp rotary engine, 6-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, 19” forged Alloy wheels, 4-wheel power assist ventilated disc brakes, limited slip differential, sport tuned suspension, xenon headlights, fog lights, dual power mirrors, air conditioning stereo with 6-disc CD changer, aux. Input jack, power windows and locks, front Recaro sport seats, keyless entry, tilt leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, dual front airbags and side and side curtain airbags, alarm and engine immobilizer, front and rear stabilizer bars, rear wing spoiler, rear widow defogger and antenna, variable intermittent wipers, center console with power outlet, rear trunk pass through, passenger seat one-touch walk-in feature, blue tooth hands free, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring system.

Gas Stats:

$3.50/ Gal avg. October 1, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 22 Highway MPG

www.safercar.gov  or   888-327-4236

Pricing:

MSRP $31,930.

2008 Nissan Sentra Spec V (722)

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2008 Nissan Sentra Spec V (722)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 Nissan Sentra Spec V. One has to wonder how any of the car makers listed below can put a very capable product on the market for under $20,000, but these are all impressive offerings.

I suspect this is much more suited to the younger crowd… young singles or even young married guys and gals and I think it would be good for up to a couple of kids. When I was first married we bought a Datsun station wagon that serviced our need well and the price was right then as it is today for the company who changed its name to Nissan brand.

With an announcement in fall of 1981, Datsun’s parent Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. decided to change the name on cars sold in the United States and Canada from Datsun to Nissan. David Aaker, a noted Marketing guru in his 1991 book: “MANAGING BRAND EQUITY” presents interesting business world facts with the conclusion that the name change campaign over a 3-year period from 1982 to 1984 cost Nissan in excess of $500 million dollars.  When Japan became committed to the US car market in 1960 Aaker suggests corporate choice favored “Datsun” to distance the parent factory Nissan’s association by Americans with Japanese WWII military manufacture

General Info:

Parts –  n/a

Assembly – Aguas, Mexico

Class:  –  Midsize Cars

Cars: – 350Z, Altima, Altima Hybrid, Armada, Frontier, GT-R, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Quest, Rogue, Sentra, Titan, Versa and Xterra.

Handling & Performance:

Zippy and fun to drive.

Styling:

Utility simple while being a great looking commuter car.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Cost:

Competitive in class.

Conveniences and comfort:

More than most of us need, but pretty usual stuff for this price point commuter.

Consumer Recommendation:

A huge low cost array of competitors that are all quite good. High profile cars like Toyota Corolla have been on the road for a good long time and are known for reliability, but I’ve tested all of these and find I’m just as impressed with the Sentra out of all cars in this price level. Nissan has been a good reliable car since its introduction to the American market back in the early 1960s. I owned one of the first Datsun imports back then and we liked it a lot.

Recognized Competition:

Nissan Sentra $16-20,000, Mini Cooper $18-25,000, Toyota Corolla $15-20,000, Suzuki Forenza $14-15,000, Kia Spectra $13-16,000, VW Jetta $17-24,000,  Chevrolet Cobalt $15-23,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-26,000, Hyundai Elantra $14-17,000, Mazda Speed3 $23-24,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Pontiac G5 $16-20,000, Ford Focus $15-18,000, Scion tC $17,000, Mazda3 $14-21,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000, Subaru Impreza $17-35,000, Nissan Altima Hybrid $26,650.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy in class, comfortable and fun to drive.

Bad News:

I couldn’t find anything to nit pick about but it will likely not be a good choice for the senior set. Low profile makes it more difficult for elder drivers getting in and out.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 200 hp Inline 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, sport tuned suspension, ventilated front disc brakes, electric power steering, electronic brake force distribution, antilock brake system, 17” alloy wheels, rear spoiler, air conditioning, power windows and locks, aluminum pedal pads, audio with CD, sport bucket seats, 6-way adjustable driver seat, remote keyless entry, trip computer with temp and distance to empty, cruise control with steering wheel controls, variable intermittent wipers, tilt steering column, front and side and roof mounted side curtain air bags, vehicle security system and immobilizer system, child safety rear locks, LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for Children) and tire pressure monitoring system.

Gas Stats:

$3.71/ Gal avg. September 7, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

21 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $20,180.

2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4X4, 4-Door (720)

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2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4X4, 4-Door (720)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2007 Jeep Wrangler 4X4 Unlimited X 4-Door. Bravo. This is great. I’ve always liked the Wrangler but this just adds to it’s capability without sacrificing the look and feel of the original. The first time I closed the door in this newest of Wranglers and buckled up I was reminded that I was in a Jeep – and very special piece of history. Then I reached for the power windows and as I cranked the manual windows I knew I was home. I thought these things went the way of Buggy Whips, but at the same time it occurred to me that hand crank roll up windows are more reliable and don’t need power to operate them in the back country, in an emergency situation for example. So I wasn’t surprised when I was also able to tune the radio with a “Knob” thank you. Some things are best left alone and simple.

One of the great things you get with owning a Jeep is the spirit and camaraderie of other owners and their love of Off Road performance. That extended family feeling is evident by the great numbers who join together each year at some of the 26 venues around the country for Jeep Jamboree’s. Great fun. Jeep has promised me another adventure this coming year after a memorable 3 days that I spent with 120 Jeep owners on the Mohawk Trail in Northwest Massachusetts. That was about 10 years ago and I’m ready for another location Scott.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 79%.

Assembly – Toledo, Ohio, USA

Class:  – Special Purpose

Cars: – Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot and Wrangler.

Handling & Performance:

This Unlimited X is powered by a V6 202 hp engine but some will say it is underpowered. However, this is an adventure vehicle and although you need hp for speed it is unnecessary for crawling over boulders on the Rubicon Trail in Tahoe, CA… or other off road trips. In any case, on the highway, once you get it rolling it is just fine.

Styling:

For the Jeep devotee this 4-door is a welcomed addition to the Jeep lineup. It expands the capability of the vehicle while keeping true to the Jeep tradition of simplicity.

Fit and Finish:

Jeep Wrangler is known for being rough and tumble and basic, but today’s Wrangler is just a little bit upgraded for more comfort.

Cost:

Not bad relative to the competition especially when you consider Wrangler is all alone really and its uniqueness stands out from the field listed.

Conveniences and comfort:

More comfort than older models, while maintaining the basic feel it also provides some of the more modern conveniences.

Consumer Recommendation:

If your lifestyle takes you outside and outback, and you love off road adventures without all the fluff common to the other competitors in this segment this is the one and only – it’s a Jeep. You can upscale a bit to the Hummer series but in class this is the best for your lifestyle.

Recognized Competition:

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited X $$19-29,000, Suzuki XL7 $23-32,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $21-25,000, Saturn Vue $21-29,000, Kia Sorento $20-26,000, Ford Escape $19-26,000, Chevrolet Equinox $22-29,000, Honda CR-V $21-28,000, Toyota RAV4 $21-27,000.

Good News:

It’s built in the US and it is a unique bit of history for the outdoors enthusiast.

Bad News:

A bit underpowered and poor fuel economy.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter V6 202 hp engine, 4-speed auto trans, front air bags, power steering, ESP electronic stability program, hydraulic brake assist, traction control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, heavy duty rear axle 3.21 axle ratio, shift on the fly 4-WD system, 600 Amp maintenance free battery, transfer case and fuel tank skid plates, theft deterrent system, front stabilizer bar, air conditioning, glove box reclining front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seat, stereo with in dash CD player, tilt steering column, roll bar with padding, rear compartment covered storage area, removable soft top, swing away mirrors, 16” steel wheels.

Optional Equipment: tint windows, cruise control, leather wrapped wheel, temp and compass gauges, aluminum wheel upgrade, fog lights, front tow hooks and 1 rear hook. ($2,515)

Gas Stats:

$3.06/ Gal avg. October 21, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 19 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $22,530, $25,705 with options.

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited (718)

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2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited (718)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Limited Convertible. The Photo shows the optional Hard Top convertible version. But the normal top is a soft or cloth top. Remember the Edsel and the Ford hard top convertibles back in the late 1950s? Well if you do, not only are you likely over 50 but you’ll notice from this adaptation of the hard top convertible that technology has done wonderful things for those great ideas of the past. They were simply too ahead of their time back then because the materials were not available to make those early retractable hard tops work well or reliably. This Sebring has come a long way since I tested the 2003 model year convertible. This 2008 model is really very nice and you absolutely have an excellent hard top or convertible option. Soft tops are not necessary these days and other than the nostalgia of a “rag top” idea, they don’t add much to the convertible experience. But they do cut the cost, in this case by $1,100.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 77%. Engine – USA, Transmission – USA.

Assembly – Sterling Heights, MI, USA

Class:  – Subcompact Cars

Cars: – 300, Aspen, Aspen Hybrid, Crossfire, Pacifica, PT Cruiser, Sebring and Town & Country.

Observation:

It occurres to me that lots of you who have shared your thoughts about the high price of gas were right on. You said there was too much speculation going on. You said we weren’t drilling enough at home. You pointed out that we have conservatively 200 years of oil in this country alone.

Then, Newt Gingrich former Speaker of the House came out and actually said it on national TV and you can see it on YouTube. Take a look at the video here:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOpcPfAarjY

Handling & Performance:

Plenty of power from the 235 hp V6 and responsive and comfortable to drive. It has good fuel economy in class.

Styling:

Very nice design changes over the years with a more substantial look and feel. The small rear seat is unavoidable for a 2-door. They have designed a good amount of trunk space when the top is up, but of course limited when it is down.

Fit and Finish:

Very good

Cost:

Competitive in class in spite of the fact it is a convertible as well. The hard top feature adds about $1,100.

Conveniences and comfort:

Usual standard equipment is fair but the cost goes up fast with options.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re in the market for a sporty convertible and don’t need a big back seat this is very nice. If adults will accompany you to the beach it won’t be a comfortable alternative.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler Sebring $20-33,000, Chevrolet Monte Carlo $20-28,000, Toyota Prius $22-24,000, Toyota Solara $20-31,000, Kia Optima $17-21,000, VW Passat $24-38,000, VW Eos $29-38,000;

2009 models: Toyota Camry $19-29,000, Mitsubishi Galant $21-27,000, Hyundai Sonata $18-26,000, Chevrolet Malibu $21-26,000, Saturn Aura $21-26,000, Pontiac G6 $20-31,000, Ford Fusion $19-25,000, Mercury Milan $20-26,000, Mercury Sable $24-31,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Honda Accord $21-31,000, Nissan Altima $20-29,000, Nissan Altima Hybrid $26,650.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy in class, fun to drive and powerful.

Bad News:

A little pricey for a subcompact along with others closest in class.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 235 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission with autostick, front and side curtain airbags, LATCH (child) system, 4-wheel power disc brakes, security alarm, sentry key theft deterrent system, power windows & locks, one touch top down, keyless entry, cruise control, power rack & pinion steering, air conditioning, power 6-way front seats, temp and compass, stereo with 6-disc CD/MP3 player, SIRIUS satellite with 1 year included, tire pressure monitoring, tortoise shell style steering wheel with audio controls, tilt and telescopic column, fog lights, power heated mirrors, power Soft top convertible.

Options:

Hard convertible top – $1,995, multimedia, GPS Nav, UConnect hands free – $900, Electronic Stability control and traction control – $425, Luxury group including heated seats, 18” chrome aluminum wheels – $1,095, Electronic convenience group incl. Auto air, auto headlights, touch screen display multimedia, hard disc drive, remote start, heated and cooled cup holders -$895.

Gas Stats:

$3.71/ Gal avg. September 7, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $32,055 – With options $38,320.

2008 Chrysler 300C SRT (717)

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2008 Chrysler 300C SRT (717)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Chrysler 300C SRT 4-door sedan with unique styling that sets you apart from the crowd. The low profile “chopped top” look and wide stance and bold sturdy appearing design has endeared this car to every adventurous souls everywhere.

From the launch to now I have always appreciated the fine points of products from Chrysler that are subtle and classy, like the analog clock, and beautiful gauges set in a great dash board. Seats are overstuffed and comfy. It’s just a great looking car.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 74%. Engine – Mexico, Transmission – Germany.

Assembly – Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Class:  – Large Cars

Cars: – 300, Aspen, Aspen Hybrid, Crossfire, Pacifica, PT Cruiser, Sebring and Town & Country.

Observation:

I will miss the kids being out of school. Summer is a driver’s paradise with the significant decrease in traffic. Back to traveling off rush hour for me. Altering your hours is about the only way to retain your sanity – if that is possible for you. I find that if you don’t ask you don’t get.

Perhaps the greatest sadness in driving today is “road rage”. It’s a term we all understand the meaning of but don’t really understand why. Why have we become such an uncouth, impolite and impatient society? I suspect the “little old lady from Pasadena” would flip off a fellow traveler when they cut her off or simply pulling in front of her simply because she leaves a safe distance between her and the car in front.

In speaking with Sgt. Robinson at the CHP there are things you can do if someone is being a jerk. You can dial 911 or 800 tell chp. That goes to Sacramento but they will immediately transfer your call to the area Communication Center you are in. You’d give your location / city and dispatch will determine if there is a CHP officer in the area.

They catch people all the time this way so be informed because the more people know this is available, the more others will think twice before breaking the law. An armed society is a polite society, whether with guns or knowledge.

Handling & Performance:

Fuel economy is lacking a bit, but this HEMI powered sedan will effortlessly walk away from all traffic when you need the power to do that.

Styling:

Unique and classy.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Competitive in class.

Conveniences and comfort:

One of my favorite features on any car, which I enjoyed on this 300C, is the smart cruise control that monitors the distance to the car in front of you with a distance finder. It allows for 3 settings for several car lengths to only a few. The comfort is pretty amazing with this feature because it goes a long way at taking the stress out of driving. I get so accustomed to using this feature that when I step into the next test vehicle I really miss that safe guard from running into the car in front of me. No one is perfect and accidents happen in the blink of an eye when some distraction causes you to take your eyes off the road. If the car in front brakes unexpectedly or while you are distracted the car will apply the brakes as hard as necessary to prevent a collision. Now that’s peace of mind and you’ll notice it in minutes of using the feature.

It can however make you a little lazy and dependent on the device. But used properly it is really cool.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler 300 $25-42,000, Lincoln Town Car $45-51,000, Infiniti M $44-53,000, Lexus GS $45-53,000, Nissan Maxima $29-31,000, Acura TL $34-38,000, Toyota Avalon $27-35,000, Dodge Charger $23-37,000, Ford Crown Victoria $25-28,000,

Good News:

Unique styling, powerful and a comfortable ride.

Bad News:

Fuel economy less than most competition noted here by a mile or two. (ok, so not too bad for a 5.7 liter HEMI).

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter HEMI multi displacement engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brakes, electronic stability program, remote start system, 4-wheel independent suspension, traction control, power adjustable pedals with memory, rain sensitive wipers, dual zone climate control, SIRIUS satellite radio with 1 year service incl., 276 watt amplifier, power windows, power tilt / telescope steering column, speed sensitive power locks, sentry key engine immobilizer theft deterrent, cruise control, security alarm, keyless entry, audio with CD / MP3 players, illuminated entry, mirrors and cup holders, power heated front seats, 18” chrome wheels.

Options:

Preferred package $2,905 including leather appointments, graphite pattern accents, additional airbags, performance steering and suspension and exhaust, perforated suede seats, performance 20” tires / wheels, body color handles and mirrors.

Protection Group II is $1,275 including park sensor, air filtration, hands free communication, hi intensity headlights and auto dim mirrors. Navigation & sound group II for $1,475 includes entertainment / Nav / GPS system, SIRIUS traffic (1 year), upgrade of speakers and 388 watt amplifier. Power sunroof for $950 and rear seat video entertainment / back seat TV $1,460.

Gas Stats:

$3.79/ Gal avg. August 31, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

15 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $35,395 – With options $44,135.

2009 Dodge Journey R/T (716)

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2009 Dodge Journey R/T (716)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2009 Dodge Journey R/T SUV. August pretty much marks the time when new model years hit the fleet and shortly after, the show rooms. As far back as I can remember that was always a big deal and exciting to go look at what was new… kinda like Springtime in the Fall. Re-birth and fresh and interesting new stuff to be amazed about.

But that was more then, when there was no Disneyland or Six Flags and in fact no freeways to get to those places or the adventurous trip to the beach. A Sunday drive in the family car was a thing to do. Not so today I fear since we’re jaded by all the truly amazing accomplishments the world has made beyond my childhood imagination. Today we’re in limbo or a holding pattern in the auto industry awaiting the launch of cars that are truly innovative and exciting. In fact we’re still waiting for the cars of the future that were unveiled at the LA Auto Show in the 1950s when I was a little guy.

Several years back I tested a car powered by Hydrogen. I’ve tested all electric car technology but not an air powered vehicle yet, but everything new has awakened visions of those early Auto Shows that really tickled the imagination. I surely didn’t think we’d have to wait this long.

On the other hand, Boston University’s Andrew Bacevich says in his book “The limits of Power”- an end of American Exceptionalism”, that we need to change our attitude of expectation. I interpret that to mean that he’s saying we need to acknowledge that our demand for material consumerism is part of our problem and that which is bankrupting our country. Our balance of trade is way out of whack and so it is important to consider supporting products made in the US no matter what they are. We’ve been warned over the past few decades and now it has come home to roost that we’re suffering because our demand for cheaper material goods is pushing their production to China among other exotic places. It is predicted that in a decade or so China will be manufacturing more cars than USA production. Wow.

Green is the buzz word now and Al Gore is an icon of the concept of melting ice. I have news for Al who’s made a quick fortune of $100 million since he left office when his net worth was $3.5 million. Brokering fear has indeed been profitable especially since too many experts disagree with his contention this warming trend is anything but normal cyclical changes of earth’s history. Al baby can’t save us no matter how much we buy into his game. But it does give him lots of money to pay for his private plane, big mansion and fleet of fuel inefficient cars, trucks, boats and all the trappings of wealth and power.

Staying informed about what the REAL people are doing is a good idea. One current topical source is the Green Car Journal. If you are not already subscribing to this periodical go to www.gcjusa.com and for $20 a year you can stay tuned to new technology. One of the interesting companies can be reached at UQM.com. Good stuff.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 35%. Mexico 54%, Engine and Transmission USA.

Assembly – Toluca, Mexico

Class:  – SUV

Cars: – Avenger, Caliber, Charger, Challenger, Dakota, Durango, Grand Caravan, Journey, Magnum, Nitro, Ram 15, 25 & 3500, Sprinter Van and Wagon & Viper.

Observation:

Green Car Journal Summer 2008 outlined 5 ways to cut your gas bill. Briefly the are: 1. less driving. 2. Slow down… significant savings is achieved by keeping speed around 60 mph rather than the current average speed of 80 mph in California, for example. 3. Avoid Jack Rabbit starts. 4. Use Regular instead of Premium grades. It is very unlikely you’ll notice major differences in performance, and I hate to mention this one but here goes: 5. Check your tire pressure and be sure they are properly inflated. The news is talking about this a lot and giggling about it but it’s no big deal. Under inflated tires wear faster and you’ll see the results in uneven wear as the outside of the tire will wear faster. If you over inflate those tires the abnormal wear will be in the center. It is most likely your tires are already properly inflated according to manufacturer’s specifications.

Handling & Performance:

Comfortable as expected from a car in this class, but not as lush as its big brother – Durango. Even so this smaller version still has lots of power when needed from a 235 hp V6 engine. It will do better on fuel as well.

Styling:

You’ll notice it looks a great deal like a minivan rather than an SUV, and if you put sliding doors on the sides the transformation would be complete. Smaller is getting better every day and accepted more as time passes and oil prices continue to make more efficient cars acceptable no matter how unattractive they become.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Closely priced competition and with an average of $25,000 there is a lot of value in today’s world. One has to wonder how much of the good pricing can be attributable to its assembly in Mexico, and how much cheaper it will be when made in China.

Conveniences and comfort:

You’ll notice some innovative stuff like under-seat storage and built in adjustment that provides raised child seating areas. Third row seating easily folds down for expansion of cargo area.

Consumer Recommendation:

A number of competitors in class is a good thing but that means your work is cut out for you in making a buying decision. I’ve tested them all and I don’t have any real favorites and it’s interesting that all have city mpg of 15-17, unless you’re interested in the Hybrid listed that gets double that fuel economy.

Recognized Competition:

Dodge Journey $20-29,000, Chevrolet Trail Blazer $ n/a, Cheverlot Traverse $28-41,000, Saturn Vue $22-30,000, Saturn Outlook $29-35,000, GMC Acadia $31-40,000, Subaru Tribeca $30-34,000, Toyota Highlander $28-34,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $21-30,000, Mitsubishi Eneavor $28-31,000, Honda Pilot $28-40,000, Mercury Mariner Hybrid $29-31,000, Mercury Mariner $22-27,000, Mercury Mountaineer $ n/a, Suzuki XL7 $21-29,000, Ford Edge $26-33,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $29-43,000, Hummer H3 $32-42,000, Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000, Nissan Murano $27-36,000, VW Touareg 2 $39-68,000.

Good News:

Great size with good seating, small enough to be more economical, comfy and competitive enough to buy American.

Bad News:

I’m waiting “Impatiently” for the real technological breakthroughs promised over half a century ago.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 235 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, multi stage front air bags, supplemental side curtain and front seat air bags, LATCH system, brake assist 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, Elect. Stability program, traction control, remote start system, performance steering and suspension, cruise control, keyless entry, theft deterrent system, security alarm, tire pressure monitor system, heated front seats with 6-way power driver seat, 2nd row 60/40 split fold flat seats w/ in floor storage bins, power windows, stereo w/ 6-in dash DVD / MP3 player, SIRIUS  satellite radio, climate control air conditioning, flip – n – stow front passenger storage, tilt and telescoping leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, leather wrapped shift knob, trip computer with temp and compass displays, dual glove boxes with upper chill zone.

Options:

Many options are available such as Sunroof, 19” chrome wheels, multimedia Entertainment center with video, 3rd row 50/50 seats and trailer tow group. This and more can run the price up by over $6,500.

Gas Stats:

$3.95/ Gal avg. August 25, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $25,920 – With options $32,265.

2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited (715)

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2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited (715)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Hyundai Sonata Limited 4 door sedan. Welllll… there’s a new sheriff in town as they say. I continue to be impressed with the new kid on the block – Hyundai. Each added exposure to testing this car company’s products makes me feel the world is closing in on the once dominant US auto industry for consumer personal transportation. The American Dream continues to be exported to the world by immigrants in America from virtually every country on earth. Some would say they come from other places in the universe too, even though not quite like the characters from the bar scene in Star Wars, but visit Downtown Anywhere USA and you may just bump into one of those strange characters. You’ll find they are not from Alpha Centuri but from a continent far far away on planet earth.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 39%. Korea 61%.

Assembly – Montgomery Alabama

Class:  – Passenger sedan

Cars: – Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tiburon, Tucson & Veracruz.

Handling & Performance:

Easily as good as all those in class for a lot less money.

Styling:

This is not a BMW or Audi or Lexus but you can’t help but be impressed with the fact these newcomers are blurring the lines of difference more each year. What a nice looking car for those consumers without their nose in the air and for who a “Badge” is required to make them feel better than others. Those with a strong ‘Self’ image will see the attractive styling of this Korean newcomer without the badge of snobbery.

Fit and Finish:

Quite good.

Cost:

Huge value for the money, which will fade just as the Japanese cars did in the 1970s and 1980s.

Conveniences and comfort:

Pretty good features list, but I suggest you add to the list sparingly and choose only those options to enhance safety and quality first. To me that means “Hands Free” everything you can afford. Blue tooth, steering wheel controls etc., which makes your travels safer.

Consumer Recommendation:

Look seriously at this car because it not only looks good, you will notice high quality mechanical things like variable valve timing in the engine, stability control, four wheel disc brakes, air bags a bunch and tire pressure monitoring system. All these are usually found on more expensive cars.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Sonata $18-26,000, Pontiac Grand Prix $22-29,000, Nissan Altima $19-29,000, Honda Accord $20-31,000, Ford Fusion $18-25,000, Kia Optima $17-21,000.

2009 – Toyota Camry $19-28,000, Mitsubishi Galant $21-27,000, Chevrolet Malibu $21-26,000, Buick LaCrosse $25-33,000, Saturn Aura Hybrid $24,930, Pontiac G6 $20-31,000, Chevrolet Impala $ n/a, Mazda 6 $19-28,000.

Good News:

Nice styling, comfortable ride and handling, priced very well in class, good safety features and impressive fuel economy.

Bad News:

Relatively new company products from an otherwise century old industry.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter engine 175 hp Inline 4-cylinder engine, continuous variable valve timing, 5-speed auto transmission with shift-tronic function, electronic stability control, power assist 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, tire pressure monitoring system, front, side and curtain air bags, audio system with CD player, keyless entry, power windows and locks, power windows, locks and mirrors, leather seating with front heated seats and leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, climate control, fog lights, 17” alloy wheels and power sunroof and tilt.

Gas Stats:

$4.09/ Gal avg. August 5, 2008

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

22 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $23,970.

2008 Hyundai Tucson SE 4-WD (714)

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2008 Hyundai Tucson SE 4-WD (714)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Hyundai Tucson SE 4WD. If you gotta have an SUV / Crossover and you don’t need huge, I guess this is a pretty good choice. And 90% of you will never need 4-wheel drive so you can save a bunch of money without it. As much as $5,000 less with the GLS 2.0 2-Wheel Drive.

Hyundai is probably one of the most impressive startup companies in the car business in recent years. Lots of good product without a lot of fan fare. And if I didn’t mention comments from friend and colleague Merkel about how poorly management treats their employees at Hyundai it would be a perfect world. Merkel is a guest writer for my column and as a design engineer and professor of engineering in a prior life he knows a lot about cars and people in the industry. Friends of his who’ve worked for the company tell him the management style and philosophy of Hyundai management is abrasive. When you’re the new kid on the block you surely don’t want other kids talking about what a jerk you are. Well, that’s his opinion and whatever the gossip is, Hyundai products are very impressive, so it can’t be as bad as he suggests. If you work for Hyundai and can add to these comments email me.

Happy cows produce great cheese and unhappy workers can make the company look bad in time.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 1%. Korea 97%.

Assembly – Ulsan, Korea

Class:  – Crossover / suv.

Cars: – Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tiburon, Tucson & Veracruz.

Observation:

Good news and bad news… Bad news first. Gas prices are obscenely high; Good news is there is less traffic on the highways.

Handling & Performance:

Even with the2.7 liter engine you only get 173 hp so it won’t jump out of its skin for instant acceleration. The 2.0 liter develops 140 horses but I didn’t test that one. The 173 was not particularly impressive. But it must overcome the 4-Wheel Drive anchor weight so the 2-WD may not be as sluggish.

Styling:

This is a nice size SUV for most uses and provides decent storage space. On the other hand I wouldn’t suggest it to son Mike with 4 kids as it is just not large enough for a large family.

Fit and Finish:

Good.

Cost:

Pricing is very competitive in class. The South Korean’s are enjoying the fruits of capitalism and the labor pool is still affordable to manufacturers. Remember when Japan was like that? Well, that advantage will soon disappear and they, like Japan, will eventually need to begin assembling cars in China where the labor market is less than $1.00 per hour and even less in some trades.

At the Detroit Auto Show (on at this writing), Chinese cars were a hot topic. The fact is it is inevitable they will not only be the assemblers of tomorrow they have already begun making their own products being sold in Asia and Europe. They are where the Japanese were in the 1960s and the Koreans were in the 1980s.

Conveniences and comfort:

All good stuff, but the important features are the disc brakes, stability and traction control.

Consumer Recommendation:

Take advantage of the price point benefit today because of cheaper labor in Korea. The product is capable and the feel and performance is a good value for the money.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Tucson $17-23,000, Toyota RAV4 $22-27,000, Jeep Liberty $21-27,000, Honda CRV $21-28,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $20-25,000, Jeep Wrangler $20-30,000, Kia Sportage $16-23,000, Kia Rondo $16-20,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-25,000.

2009 Ford Escape $20-27,000, Ford Escape Hybrid $28-32,000, Subaru Forester $20-28,000, Pontiac Torrent $24-31,000, Saturn Vue Hybrid $ n/a, Acura RDX $34-37,000, VW Tiguan $23-31,000, Chevrolet Equinox $24-31,000 and Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000 .

Good News:

Price competitive advantage, solid feel, fairly good fuel economy and excellent safety tests.

Bad News:

Some will think it a bit underpowered.

Standard Equipment:

2.6 liter engine 173 hp V6 engine, 4-speed auto transmission, 4-WD system, electronic stability and traction control, power assist 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, tire pressure monitoring system, front, side and curtain air bags, audio system with cassette, CD/MP3 player and 6-speakers, keyless entry, power windows and locks, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, power mirrors, fog lights, 60/40 rear split folding seat, 16” alloy wheels and roof rack.

Gas Stats:

$4.09/ Gal avg. August 5, ‘08

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

17 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $22,735.

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