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 Mazda Speed 3, 5 passenger sedan (670)

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2008 Mazda Speed 3, 5 passenger sedan (670)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda Speed 3. By any measure or opinion you can’t argue with the fact that this is a high performance car. You need only test drive the car to be instantly impressed. It is truly a rocket and no matter what cars I have driven and on the highway or racetrack this is among the best handling of what’s available for everyday drivers.

General Info:

Parts – Japan 95%

Assembly – Japan

Class:  – Compact

Cars: – CX-7, CX-9, Mazda 3,5,6 & Mazda 6 Sport Wagon, Speed3, Speed6, MX-5 Miata, RX8, Tribute and Truck.

Handling & Performance:

The real test is always on the mountain curves of Angeles Crest where this Speed3 was right at home. The turbocharged 2.3 liter 4-cylinder 263 hp engine acted like it had a ‘jet assist’ take off module on the sides and literally it will pull the steering wheel (front wheel drive) hard to the right as it slips from your grasp… so watch that when you test it. It reminded me of taking off in a Cessna 150 just as you lift off the end of the runway and you must apply a hard right rudder to compensate for engine torque that causes a pull to the left.

Looking at the high tech steering, brake distribution and stability controls along with the front and rear stability bars it is easy to see why it handles so well. Ok, so this stuff costs money and will help to explain why the price is so high and seemingly more money than you’d initially expect from a compact car where you’d also expect better fuel economy and more economical pricing. If you want performance, however, you’ll overlook the downside effect of purchase price and operating costs. And of course it is a sedan so it doubles as a transporter of up to 5 passengers plus you get a high performance car like one of my all time favorites – the Nissan Z.

Styling:

Non-descript design which is common of today’s cars that are designed on computers that eliminates human emotion almost completely. Yes, gone are the days of wild flairs of design extremes of the 1950s and 1960s when we didn’t have computers and CAD (computer aided design software) systems.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

The purchase price was more than I expected, even after getting past the initial feeling it was a kids car. But it is impressive and comes close to being worth the money. If you’re into high performance cars you’ll love it but if you aren’t don’t waste your time looking at this one unless you are simply curious. The cost is high because it is so capable and you’ll pay for all the high tech stuff – so if you expect an inexpensive transportation or commuter look elsewhere.

Conveniences and comfort:

What you see is what you get… everything is included in the MSRP.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are into high performance cars and still want the convenience of a 5-passenger sedan this is the hot “E” ticket ride. Road racers will love this car.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda Speed 3 $22-24,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Pontiac G6 $18-29,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $20-29,000, Audi A3 $26-35,000, Dodge Caliber $14-20,000, Subaru Impreza Wagon $17-25,000, Nissan Sentra $15-20,000, Volkswagen GTI $23,000, Scion tC $17,000, Mazda 3 $14-20,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-19,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000, Hyundai Tiburon $17-22,000, MINI Cooper $18-25,000.

Good News:

Fun to drive sporty sedan, more than a kids car, very comfy seats and zippy performance.

Bad News:

Fair fuel economy at best especially when you drive to performance potential, 6-speed trans takes a little getting used to.

Standard Equipment:

2.3 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged all aluminum engine, 6-speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, torque sensing limited slip differential, 18 inch allow wheels with high performance tires, automatic on/off headlights, fog lights, rain sensing wipers, leather and fabric seats, 60/40 split fold down rear seat backs, Bose audio system with 7 speakers and 6 disc CD player and SIRIUS satellite radio, steering wheel audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering column, cruise control, power windows and locks, dual front air bags, tire pressure monitoring system, front and rear independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, variable assist power steering, and 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brakes with electronic brake distribution, dynamic stability control and traction control, climate control, center console, adjustable driver seat with lumbar support, leather wrapped steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals and foot rest, trip computer, anti-whiplash front seat design, child anchor system, anti-theft immobilizer and theft deterrent security system and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

$2.85/ Gal avg. October 2, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $24,055.

2008 Volkswagen New Beetle S (668)

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2008 Volkswagen New Beetle S (668)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle S coupe. But I have to bitch about the “dumbly engineered sun visors”. The windows are unusually large and the engineers and test drivers (yea right) went brain dead when they ignored the need to cover more of the window for side sun. Ok, so they may not have sun in Michigan.

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 17%, Germany 35% and Mexico 35%. Transmission – Argentina.

Assembly – Puebla, Mexico

Class:  – Subcompact Cars

Cars: – Eos, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle, Passat & Wagon, Rabbit and Touareg.

Observation:

I’m sure we all have observed the movement of traffic on most of our highways and how it fluctuates because there is no way to determine the average speed of that flow. Therefore drivers speed up until all lanes are bunched up like an accordion. Then as panic radiates from a rapidly moving flash of red lights our hearts pound from near misses or worse . . . “CRASH”. Then everyone is inconvenienced by slowly clearing crash scenes that back up all lanes with nowhere to go like parking at the big game – but no entertainment.

Well – what if there were strobe lights that blink at the average rate of speed of traffic for a specified number of miles ahead. That would provide a way to synchronize your cruise control to allow a smooth flow of travel. We all know that makes for more comfortable transportation.

Handling & Performance:

Impressive, especially if you’ve ever driven earlier year models – like in the 60s.

Styling:

V-Dub has become an Icon of our time. It was perhaps the first of the economy cars and simply a part of our driving experience. I appreciate the fact it has changed little in its dress and I also appreciate the conveniences and comfort designed into this old friend. It even has changed its anatomy and where you always found the engine you find a trunk – although small it is larger than the tradition of the past. But they have built in the ability to fold down the rear seat back that gives a good deal of cargo space.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding.

Cost:

Acceptable since they give a lot of hidden quality of all manner of control features to make your driving experience safer.

Conveniences and comfort:

The list below is also impressive as standard. And what you see is what you get – everything is standard.

Consumer Recommendation:

It would be an easier decision if it were better on the fuel consumption. 35-40 mpg is what I’d expect because this is a good commuter and shouldn’t be just for fun driving.  In fact, even though it is not on the competition list, I’d look at the Toyota Yaris if you want a commuter with about 40 mpg for about $14,000 – and it’s not a hybrid.

Recognized Competition:

VW New Beetle $17-26,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $15-29,000, Mini Cooper $18-25,000, Scion tC $17,000, Ford Focus $, Kia Spectra5 $15,995, Mazda MX5 Miata $21-27,000, Pontiac G5 $15-19,000, Chevrolet HHR $16-20,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-19,000, Toyota Matrix $16-17,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000.

Good News:

Great high tech features for handling and safety,

Bad News:

Tiny sun visors, low fuel economy for this class car.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 150 hp inline 5 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual trans, power assist rack and pinion steering, electronic stability program, anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, electronic brake force distribution, anti-lock disc brake system, front and side airbag, daytime running lights, side impact beams, tire pressure monitoring system, air conditioning, power heated mirrors, intermittent wipers / washers, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, remote trunk and fuel cap, folding rear seat, 12 V power outlets, anti theft alarm with immobilizer, in-dash CD player, and 16” alloy wheels with anti-theft locks.

Gas Stats:

$2.71/ Gal avg. Sept 11, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $17,365.

2008 Dodge Avenger SXT (667)

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2008 Dodge Avenger SXT (667)

Overview:
This week let’s look at Chrysler’s Dodge Avenger SXT midsize sedan.

Chrysler has to be the Cinderella story of car makers since their birth at the turn of the 20th century. They just seem to hang in there and never give up in spite of being in the background over the past 50 years – always a bridesmaid and never a bride, as they say. But they have finally become more of a threat to other car makers – braces off, hair restyled and a new set of clothes. Not just one of the big three and moreover they were #3. Lee Iacocca helped them out of bankruptcy, Daimler gave them a boost and now – well we’ll see.

Mom used to be the worst judge of cars and although young boys will be happy to drive almost anything just to get behind the wheel, that’s about all you can say for Chrysler products in the 1950s. Then there was her Pontiac that was just as much a bucket of bolts as were her Chrysler products. Remember the push button shifting? Ok, Ma I gotta admit the Ford Woody was a great choice and hitting the beach and sleeping in the back of that was really cool. “Say what officer? We can’t sleep in the car?” So we found a cave on the beach, built a fire (only visible from a boat off shore), warmed our can of beans and hot dogs – and those were the good old days? Well you be the judge, but they truly were fun times. I’ll bet you have similar stories to tell.

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 77%.

Assembly – Sterling Hts, Mich., USA

Class:  – Midsize Cars

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

Handling & Performance:

Very good results on the Crest Test mountain course with the 2.7 liter 189 horsepower V6 engine with front wheel drive in my test vehicle. Others available are the standard equipment 2.4 liter 173 hp I4 and a 235 hp 3.5 liter V6. It is also available in all wheel drive.

Styling:

It surely steps out there in style for the class with a new fresh sporty presence. It just seems to make a quiet statement and one you’re not embarrassed anywhere whether you’re dressing up or down.

Fit and Finish:

Assembly is typical in class and a continuing improvement generally for all Chrysler brands. Perhaps the most improved of all makes. The bad news is that it had to be improved but the good news is that it was – thanks to those folks responsible over the past 25 years or so.

Cost:

Affordable 4 door sedan with strong styling and presence as well as the solid feel of a much more expensive alternative.

Conveniences and comfort:

An unusual in-dash cooler for up to 4 12 oz. soda cans just above the glove box space and it wouldn’t be a must have convenience for me but it may excite you more. The seats are comfy and the air was quite good in spite of a heat spell up in the 115 degree range. Even as good as it was we found a trip to the beach was the ticket. The trunk is spacious and easily held chairs, umbrella, cooler, boogie board and all the other gear needed for a day at the beach for two. A couple of kids would not have cramped our style a bit.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re a Chrysler fan this is a great replacement for the Stratus. It is perfect for a normal family interested in nice styling yet concerned about cost to purchase and operate. It surely is affordable and not terribly wasteful on the petrol…You can opt for the larger 3.5 liter V6 engine but you don’t need it. The 2.7 liter V6 is perfect and delivers better overall performance and only requires 87 octane gas. Look closely and I think you’ll agree the SXT is a good choice as is or with the options is only $23,000.

Recognized Competition:

Dodge Avenger $19-25,000, Ford Five Hundred $23-28,000, Kia Optima $16-20,000, Mazda 6 $19-27,000, Pontiac G6 $18-29,000, Chevrolet Malibu $17-24,000, Hyundai Sonata $18-24,000, Volkswagen Passat $24-38,000, Toyota Camry $19-28,000, Honda Accord $19-30,000, Mercury Milan $19-25,000, Nissan Altima $20-25,000, Saturn Aura $21-25,000, Subaru Legacy $20-34,000 and Mitsubishi Galant $20-27,000.

Good News:

Nice styling, comfortable, decent fuel economy, roomy interior and trunk space and generally affordable.

Bad News:

Chrysler has had a history of mediocre everything so the genes are flawed, but over the past couple of decades they have blossomed.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter I4 cylinder 173 hp engine, 4-speed automatic, dual front and side air bags, front and rear side curtain airbags, rear child seat anchors and upper tethers, rear door child locks, front disc rear drum ABS brakes, power rack and pinion steering, rear window defroster, power locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system with security alarm, cruise control, air conditioning with chill zone bin, power windows and locks, stereo with CD/MP3 player, 8-way power driver seat with manual lumbar support, rear 60/40 folding seat, tilt and telescopic steering column, O/S temp, tire pressure monitor & warning, floor console with 12 volt outlets and rear folding armrest, 17” aluminum wheels and quad LHD optics headlights.

Options:

Pearl coast paint, ABS 4-wheel disc brakes, 18” aluminum wheels, fog lights, trunk lid spoiler, power heated mirrors, power windows, heated front seats, remote start system, 2.7 liter V6 engine, power sunroof.

Gas Stats:

$2.71/ Gal avg. Sept 11, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

19 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $19,120 – With options $23,435.

2007 Jeep Compass Limited 4X4 (665)

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2007 Jeep Compass Limited 4X4 (665)

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 67%. Mexico 18%
Assembly – Belvidere, Illinois, USA
Class:  – Special Purpose
Cars: – Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot and Wrangler.

“An Automotive Love Affair”
By Joseph Mavilia       2007 Jeep Compass Limited 4X4

Overview:

This week let’s look at Jeeps 2007 Compass Limited 4X4 SUV. It is the best
of the bunch all things considered. You won’t see any noticeable change from
’07 to ’08 so you may want to take advantage of year end ’07 clearance sales
as they make room for the 2008s.

The low end model comes with front wheel drive for this very car-like sport
Ute and it looks the part of a road car not expected to go off road. But
then as we all know only a very small number will ever get off road anyway –
and not all that far either. The idea of being able to go off road is
romantic and adventuresome but our busy lives and family demands prevent us
from taking the time.

This Jeep Compass has a lower profile than most in class so it is easy to
get in and out of, which helps to explain why it is expected to appeal to
women more than before and 50/50 sales split of men and women is the target.
I wonder how the gay community figures into those statistics… even split?

Handling & Performance:

More roll and sway in the mountain turns on the Crest Test in spite of the
rear stabilizer bar, and the steering is a bit loose for my liking. More
expensive products will employ variable power assist depending on the speed
you’re traveling. That is good but it adds a lot of cost that doesn’t really
fit into this price class vehicle. So you travel more slowly which is fine
for what the vehicle is. When I travel over the mountain winding roads and
want to enjoy a performance car my mind immediately shifts gears to
Corvette, Nissan 350Z or a host of other sports coupes.

It is very responsive and I found once you’re rolling you can accelerate to
80 in a short burst. It felt initially to be a turbo but it’s isn’t. And it
does it all on 87 octane gasoline.

There is an annoying hesitation starting out and jerky throttle generally at
all speeds. No immediate explanation why you get power surges and the
throttle is so sensitive but it’s not a deal killer. I began to get used to
it but I’d prefer it didn’t happen. I’ll give you cowboys and cowgirls an
example. Ever ridden a horse that is real touchy and the slightest movement
of the rains or any other parts of your anatomy cause them to twitch and
they want to bolt… yep, that’s the Compass.

Styling:

Wonderful look and I had several comments about how much people liked this
Compass.

Fit and Finish:

Very good for the Jeeps of just 10 years ago. I have to say I’ve driven lots
of Jeeps over the years and I appreciate the improvement in how they are put
together today and noticeable for the past decade.

Cost:

Price to value ratio is very good.

Conveniences and comfort:

Very good. It is well appointed. Seats are comfortable and the ride on the
highway is smooth. I appreciate the sliding console armrest that is becoming
more common and a thoughtful addition by a few car makers including Jeep.

The lift gate is one piece and is very easy opening and closing. It is a
sign of careful engineering. It doesn’t take all that much but if you have
to struggle with putting a lift gate or tail gate up and down you can bet
there are lots of other stupid engineering elsewhere in the automobile,
train and planes… and they should “Throw the Engineer from the train”.
Mamma can stay.

Consumer Recommendation:

This is, as you’ll see, the best priced of the competition and since I’ve
driven them all I would opt for the Compass, because it is after all a Jeep.
I was particularly happy with the Liberty I tested on an Elk hunting trip
but I appreciate the added roominess of the Compass. There are several
options packages and you’ll want to consider those, not only for convenience
but for resale.

Recognized Competition:

Jeep Compass $16-22,000, Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000, Acura RDX $33-36,000,
Chevrolet Equinox $22-29,000, Hyundai Tucson $17-24,000, Toyota RAV4
$21-27,000, Honda CR-V $21-28,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-25,000, Kia
Sportage $16-23,000.

Good News:

Nice styling, easy fold flat rear seats, visors extend for good side
coverage and comfy ride with good seats.

Bad News:

Jerky throttle and only fair fuel economy numbers.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4-cylinder 172 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual transmission,
advanced front air bags, side curtain bags, electronic stability program,
traction control, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, roll protection, rear
stabilizer bar, theft deterrent system, power windows and locks that are
speed sensitive, power fold away mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless
entry and illumination, rear window wiper/ washer and defroster, sliding sun
visors with mirrors, 12 V outlet and 115 V outlet, air conditioning, heated
front seats, heights adjustable driver seat, leather wrapped tilt steering
wheel with audio controls, outside temp display, stereo with CD player,
passenger fold flat seatback, rear 60/40 reclining and folding seat backs,
removable interior rechargeable light, 18″ aluminum alloy wheels, halogen
headlights, fog lights and deep tint sunscreen glass.

Options: continuously variable transaxle with autostick, auto dim rearview
mirror, outside temp and compass, universal garage door opener, information
center, tire pressure monitor and 18″ aluminum wheels.

Gas Stats:

$2.63/ Gal avg. August 24, ’07
www.fueleconomy.gov <http://www.fueleconomy.gov>
for more information.

23 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $21,925.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
<mailto:joe@atthewheel.com>
Copyright (c) 2007 – An Automotive Love Affair

2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Laramie Quad Cab 4X4 (664)

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2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Laramie Quad Cab 4X4 (664)

Overview:
This week let’s look at the 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Laramie Quad Cab 4X4 and although it is like my personal Ram 3500 it is newer and mine is white. This test vehicle is bright Red. What were they thinking? I never wanted to be a fireman like most little boys but after climbing up into this Mammoth I had visions of a “Hook and Ladder” truck.

And to make the experience complete I realized I would need my “Kidney Belt” if I would be traveling over 65 mph on a cement freeway surface. This dual rear wheel “broad” rear end Ram will shake your eye teeth lose. Of course this truck is made for work and heavy loads so the suspension is really stiff and empty is not as smooth ride as we’d like. But when you sit in such a plush interior it is misleading since the luxury is contrasted by the heavy big truck look from the outside.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – United States and Mexico

Class:  – Truck

Cars: – Avenger, Caliber, Caravan, Charger, Dakota, Durango, Magnum, Nitro, Ram 1500, 2500 & 3500, Sprinter Van and Wagon and Viper.

Handling & Performance:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), together with the Department of Energy (DOE), Chrysler Group and Cummins, recognized the new 2007 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty as the cleanest mass-production diesel-engine pickup truck on the market.

It’s cleaner, quieter and more powerful at 350 horsepower because of the Turbo Diesel from Cummins. 18 Wheeler drivers probably won’t want one because it’s simply too close to what they drive for a living. Cummins is arguably the best big truck engine you can have in your truck. Take it from me – I own a Ram 3500 with over 260,000 miles and it is just about broken in. No joke. These things are made for lots of miles. Mine is a Cummins as well. You gotta love this truck.

However it is a chore to drive because it is so big that you will have to take up two parking spaces – not that you can’t maneuver into a single space, because you can. But others who will be parking next to you are clueless about how big it really is and two spaces will give them lots of space to avoid hitting you. I was embarrassed to take two spaces recently and regret it because someone in the parking structure in Ventura (Spanish for “good fortune”) left a little bit of their vehicles white paint on my beautiful new “Flame Red Clear Coat Paint”. Next time – two spaces.

I had an eye exam and they dilated my eyes just before leaving on a short trip with the little lady. Sorry honey but you have to drive. I can’t drive that big truck she says. But she did and amazed herself. Of course once you hit the road it handles well with great power steering and all the power you need to feel like you’re driving a passenger car. But this one has “Attitude”. The truck, not my lady. But now that I think of it she has somewhat of an attitude too. Don’t tell her I said that.

Styling:

Classic Dodge Ram.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding, strong, shinny, solid, elegant (as a truck can be elegant) and generally very clean lines. But this is anything but a ‘sissy’ girlie man truck.

Cost:

Pricey – no question about it – this truck is expensive with all the bells and whistles. A plain Jane model is however priced competitively for those who just want to get ‘er done.

Conveniences and comfort:

As usual, this is no different from most trucks these days that give you the option to “Dress them Up” so they are more like luxury SUV’s than work-horses.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you need the “max” in pickup trucks you’ve found the right truck for the job whether fit to do a big dirty job or dressed up for the prom.

Recognized Competition:

Dodge Ram 3500 $28-50,000, Chevrolet Silverado Classic 3500 $26-38,000, GMC Sierra Classic 3500 $27-39,000, GMC Sierra 3500 HD$28-40,000,  Ford F-350 Super Duty $23-39,000.

Good News:

Turbo Diesel with great power and improved fuel economy, super comfy and almost too pretty for most but important to many others.

Bad News:

Pricey when dressed up, tough to park.

Standard Equipment:

6.7 liter 350 horsepower Cummins Turbo diesel engine, 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift on the fly transfer case, Leather heated bucket seats, 40/20/40 split folding rear bench seat, 4-wheel ABS disc braking system, dual front air bags, power steering, 35 gallon fuel tank, variable intermittent wipers, theft deterrent system, fog lights, power adjustable pedals, air conditioning dual zone temp control, tilt steering column, leather wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with 6 in-dash CD / MP3 player with 7 infinity speakers, GPS Navigation system, and SIRIUS satellite digital radio including 1 year service, power 6-way driver / passenger seats, rear power sliding window, class IV hitch with 7 pin wiring harness, side curtain air bags, anti-spin differential rear axle, under rail box bedliner, chrome tubular side steps, under seat storage compartment.

Gas Stats:

$2.65/ Gal avg. August 22, ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information. City and Highway MPG is not required for Heavy Duty vehicles. I believe manufacturers should do it anyway. My calculations were right at 15 mpg average highway and city combined

Pricing:

MSRP $38,480 and as equipped above $53,470.

2007 Yaris S 4-door Sedan (663)

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2007 Yaris S 4-door Sedan (663)
[wpsgallery]

Overview:

This week let’s look at the 2007 Yaris S 4-door Sedan that speaks to us about the hypocrisy of our ‘classes’. Most ‘do gooders’ will tell you to “do as I say, not as I do”. Can you think of someone who wastes and then tells others to tighten their belts, be “green”, cut fewer trees and save the spotted owl and prevent global warming?

Well you don’t have to listen to him but simply buy a fuel efficient car to beat the high price of gas with cars like this Yaris at nearly 40 mpg. In fact friend Merkel tells me he gets more than 40 mpg in his new Yaris with a manual transmission and hasn’t dipped below 36. This test vehicle has a 4-speed automatic trans which I would opt for as shifting is great some of the time but it gets old fast.

This car is a serious option for those cost conscious buyers who want great fuel economy but don’t want to take a chance on the Hybrids that could end up costing a lot in repair bills down the road. The jury is still out on that but consider you can get nearly the same economy from a conventionally powered Yaris. Next time I will give some information on the Actual Cost of vehicles.

Handling & Performance:

The 1.5 liter 4-cylinder 106 horsepower engine is not a lot but it’s amazing how little you need even in today’s world of highway driving. Consider the 505 hp Corvette with 16 mpg fuel stats compared to this 40 mpg car that seats 4 and (looks aside) will out perform the Vette under most usual traffic conditions where horsepower means absolutely nothing.

Amazingly however the Vette actually develops more horsepower per liter than the Yaris. Historically the smaller engines (especially those from European car makers) have delivered close to 100 hp per liter.

I felt very comfortable driving at highway speeds. I can’t say that of all small cars so the Yaris road ability is good.

Styling:

Yaris is available as a two door hatchback or this 4-door sedan. I found the center mounted gauges to be odd and unclear why they did that. It was explained to me that is most likely for the world market generally so the car can be configured right or left hand drive and not change in the instruments.

I kept looking first at where you expect the gauges to be and staring at a blank piece of plastic. Speaking of plastic, the cupholders hidden in the dash are smart on each side of the front seat for driver and passenger.

Fit and Finish:

Typical of this price class. It is not, however, noticeably cheap. Components are solid and no indication things will start falling off any time soon. That too is not true of all cars I critique. Literally some are so cheaply put together components do indeed fall off, bend, and otherwise are not suited for the purpose intended. This Yaris is engineered well and you won’t get that cheap feeling when you drive this car.

Cost:

Excellent especially when put up against most of the competition noted here.

Conveniences and comfort:

Skinny. Pretty basic. I found the seats to be rather uncomfortable which is not so uncommon in this price range car. I expected better.

Consumer Recommendation:

For the money this Yaris will be hard to beat and you have to give Toyota credit for making fuel stingy cars available at the height of fuel price levels. Smart and I believe this is as good a reason to support economical models. This is a great example of responsible vehicles and I predict they will explode now and in the future which will push the price up for new and used alike. You can’t lose on resale. This is a good choice and a good buying decision.

Recognized Competition:

Toyota Yaris $11-14,000, Honda Fit $14-16,000, Ford Focus $14-17,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Chevrolet Aveo $12-14,000, Chevrolet Aveo5 $10-12,000, Honda Fit $14-16,000, Hyundai Accent $10-14,000, Nissan Versa $13-15,000, Suzuki Reno $14-16,000, VW Rabbit $15-17,000, Kia Rio $11-13,000 and Kia Rio5 $13,750.

Good News:

Outstanding fuel economy without concern for potential Hybrid repair nightmares down the road and interior space is roomy feeling.

Bad News:

Sparse on the features which are very basic unless you spend another $2,075 for the options, uncomfortable seats and I don’t like the center mounted gauges.

Standard Equipment:

1.5 liter 4-cylinder 106 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic trans with overdrive, air conditioning, power steering, electronic throttle control, front ventilated disc and rear drum brakes, front airbags, halogen headlights, cloth bucket seats, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, tilt steering wheel, intermittent wiper, audio system with CD and rear defroster.
Options: Power package with 15” allow wheels, seat mounted front side airbags and front and rear side Curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, fog lights: add $2,075.

Gas Stats:

$3.00/ Gal avg. August 10, ‘07
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

34 City and 39 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $14,050.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2007 – An Automotive Love Affair

2008 Scion xD 5-door Wagon (662)

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2008 Scion xD 5-door Wagon (662)

General Info:

Parts – n/a 

Assembly – Japan

Class:  – Subcompact Cars

Cars: – Scion tC, xB and xD.

“An Automotive Love Affair”
By Joseph Mavilia       2008 Scion xD 5-door Wagon     

Overview:

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

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

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

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

Handling & Performance:

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

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

Styling:

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

Fit and Finish:

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

Cost:

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

Conveniences and comfort:

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

Consumer Recommendation:

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

Recognized Competition:

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

 Good News:

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

Bad News:

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

Standard Equipment:

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

Gas Stats:

$2.85/ Gal avg. August ‘07

 www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

26 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $15,350.

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

Copyright © 2007 – An Automotive Love Affair

2007 Volkswagen Eos 3.2 liter (661)

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2007 Volkswagen Eos 3.2 liter (661)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2007 Volkswagen Eos (Greek goddess of dawn) 3.2 liter 2-door retractable hard top convertible. That is a leap forward and a leap of faith for VW much like the Phaeton which, of course, will haunt VW through each new launch.

Well they need not worry too much about this Eos because it is likely to be a winner. The Phaeton was a “Fish out of water” for VW and this Eos is swimmingly perfect for the car buying public. With gas prices promising never to go back down and with nearly 30 mpg for a top performer this is bound to succeed and as well it should. It is terribly fun to drive and as capable as cars in class and even those that sport a more expensive badge.

General Info:

Parts – Germany 75%, U.S/ Canadian 1%.

Assembly – Wolfsburg, Germany

Class:  – Compact Cars

Cars: – Eos, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon, Rabbit and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

I enjoyed how well this front wheel drive Eos handled and quickly forgot that it’s a VW.

I tested the V6 but I would strongly suggest looking at the optional 2 liter 4-cylinder 200 hp turbocharged engine that is less money and delivers a few more mpg up to 32 highway with not a lot less horsepower.

Styling:

Well, it was Hitler who championed the Beetle from Volkswagen. If there is any reason to hate the little bastard that would be it. Oddly enough it was widely embraced by war weary Americans and for the life of me I can only wonder why. Is it because it was considered cute and economical? Curious because gas was about 15 cents a gallon. In any case it won the hearts and minds and pocket books of American car buyers long before Germany’s Mercedes Benz was accepted as the Icon of the Rich and famous and a symbol of success. A Jewish friend always suggested it was the Germans legacy to the Jews.

The retractable hard top/ convertible is new for VW but what’s not new is the fact it must be stored when down which makes cargo storage a bit of a problem. They have provided a small covered cargo area and a pass through to the rear seat and that’s the best that can be done. In the up position the trunk is actually good size for a sporty convertible. If you’ll need more a family sedan will be more appropriate solution for you. For the same reasons the rear seat is small but not impossible like many other two door convertibles.

What is also amazing is that the retractable Hard Top incorporates a large sliding Sun Roof. Unbelievable. Nice touch VW … even though I’m not a fan of sun roofs.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent attention to detail.

Cost:

More than I envisioned, but it handles extremely well and it should be a contender in class even as priced, especially for V-dub enthusiasts. Secondly it becomes more affordable when you consider this is not just a four seat coupe. When you throw in the retractable HARD top suddenly it is less money than others with the same feature.

Conveniences and comfort:

Hello VW… you listening? The sun visors don’t extend. Don’t you guys have sun in Germany? This is one of my pet peeves and I doubt I’m the only one who wants to block the sun from beating on your face from the side? And on a hot bright sunny day it is really distracting.

Second bitch: Electronics on German cars generally are less intuitive than all other makes. Thus the (optional) Nav system for example is more difficult to use. What’s that about? If they only sold their cars in Poland I would understand and we could term it “RPN”. That’s how Hewlett Packard (HP) explains one of the settings on its hand held calculators. The acronym stands for “Reverse Polish Notation”.

Third bitch: Cruise control is poorly placed under and close to the turn signal. And to add insult to injury they designed the shape exactly like the turn signal. No wonder they lost the war.

Fourth bitch: the accelerator has an annoying hesitation starting out and this isn’t the turbocharged model.

Now, that being said, these are not killer annoyances. Eventually I would get used to the oddities and of course the rest of the automotive world “Could” be wrong after all and then I’d apologize to the Germans. Until then I’d ask them to consider changing some of these things. British and Italian cars don’t strike me the same so I don’t think it’s a European thing.

Consumer Recommendation:

VW is a reliable car. I’ve been happy with the product generally and understand you can’t be all things to all people. A very old VW Beetle got me through college, I embarked on marriage in a (VW) Carmen Ghia and with a young family we bought a new Bug just because.

Recognized Competition:

VW Eos $28-37,000, Ford Mustang $19-32,000, Pontiac G6 $17-29,000, Volvo C70 $39,090, Mini Cooper $18-25,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $20-29,000.

Good News:

Not too much to look at in class so it’s an easy search. It is powerfully responsive and handles like a sports car with softer suspension. Nice hard top / convertible design.

Bad News:

Price could be an obstacle.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 250 hp V6 engine, 6-speed front wheel drive automatic transmission, speed variable assist power steering, stability program, anti slip, electronic differential lock, 4-wheel power assist Anti lock disc brakes, front, curtain and side airbags, child anchors, fog lights, auto headlights, LED tail lights, rear head restraints and roll over protection, tire pressure monitoring system, antitheft with immobilizer system, dual zone climate control, cruise control, trip computer with compass and outside temp display, power windows, power heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering column, center armrest with storage, intermittent wipers with heated washer nozzles, 12 way power heated front seats, leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel, shift knob and hand brake, leather interior, remote release for trunk and fuel door, remote keyless entry, fully automatic power retractable hard top, large power glass sunroof, 17 inch alloy wheels and in dash CD player MP3 format readable. Options include Navigation system and upgraded sound system.

Gas Stats:

$2.89/ Gal avg. July 31 ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

22 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $36,850 – With options $40,930.

2007 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD SUV (660)

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2007 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD SUV (660)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD SUV. And I gave it an extended test of over 1,000 miles on a trek to Lake Tahoe, CA. The last time I drove this car was in 2003 and it has come along nicely. Since then they have added the Azera, Entourage, Tucson and Veracruz and dropped the XG350.

Hyundai is looking to provide an upscale sleek alternative to existing SUV’s. I know when I first drove the Santa Fe I showed it to my kids to encourage them to consider this as an option to some of the larger SUVs with far worse fuel consumption and purchase price. The two model years are not drastically different outwardly, but they have concentrated on providing a lot of the safety technology features only available in more expensive SUVs. That helps to explain the sizeable increase in MSRP of about $10,000 over the 2003 year model.

General Info:

Parts – Korea 65%, U.S/ Canadian 35%.

Assembly – Montegomery, Alabama, U.S.A.

Class:  – SUV

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

Handling & Performance:

This ‘07 year model 3.3 liter V6 develops 242 horsepower in contrast to the ’03 model that was 3.5 liter and only developed 195 horsepower. And interestingly enough, today’s model improves fuel performance by a few miles per gallon in spite of the added horsepower.

Styling:

Improved design for 2007 makes the appearance more like higher priced luxury makes and models. They have achieved that more stylish look from older model years and you can’t tell without looking closely at the badge. Unless you’re a snob about badges you’ll be delighted with this Korean made SUV and save a bunch of money in the process.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent. You’re sure to be as impressed as I was.

Cost:

In the past four years the MSRP has climbed from $18,000 to $28,000 for 2007 which is mostly for the additions of several safety features. Inflation accounts for the rest.

Conveniences and comfort:

The conveniences are not so different as mentioned but the real change comes in hidden features that are more important to consumers safety and performance.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Santa Fe $21-28,000,  Toyota RAV4 $21-27,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $21-25,000, Chevrolet Equinox $22-29,000, Buick Rendezvous $25-29,000, Jeep Liberty $22-27,000, Nissan Xterra $20-28,000, Mercury Mariner $21-26,000, Mazda CX-7 $24-28,000, Honda CR-V $21-28,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-17,000, Ford Escape $19-26,000,  Saturn Vue $21-29,000, Kia Sorento $20-26,000.

Good News:

More powerful V6 coupled with significant fuel enconomy improvement.

Bad News:

A little pricey for most ‘badge sensitive” buyers who would likely opt for BMW, Lexus,

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter 242 hp V6, 5-speed auto trans,

Gas Stats:

$2.99/ Gal avg. July 23 ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

19 City and 24 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $27,945.

2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 4-door (659)

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2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 4-door (659)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2007 (late year model) Volkswagen Rabbit 4-door sedan. You know what, we in America really need to re-think our perceived need to drive bulky, heavy vehicles like today’s SUV’s. Most of the world drives cars that provide much more fuel economy and sacrifice very little in the area of interior space. Here in the US truck class cars (that included SUVs) make up fully 50% of all cars sold.

I’m sure many buy large cars in self defense since there are so many on the highway. Think if you drove a “Smart” car how intimidating it would be on the same road with big heavy cars.

Responsible cars like the Smart Car and this VW Rabbit would be a much easier sell if there weren’t so many big cars to share the highway with. And on the roads of most of Western and especially Eastern Europe a large car is a “Fish out of water”. Roads are simply too small to accommodate them.

General Info:

Parts – Germany 75%, U.S/ Canadian 1%.

Assembly – Wolfsburg, Germany

Class: – Compact Cars

Cars: – Eos, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon, Rabbit and Touareg.

Observation:

European car makers seem unafraid of using Express up and down windows as are those in America. Such features are very convenient but you seldom see American car makers willing to risk lawsuits. Pa-leese – what’s that all about? What ever happened to the old west, pioneer spirit, and people taking responsibility for themselves? In any case this VW Rabbit with Express up and down windows include “Pinch Protection” so this won’t cause a boo-boo.

As far as I’m concerned it was ok without “Pinch Protection”. Oooo-my-gosh is it any different than teaching your child to look both ways before crossing the street. Or is it the adults we have to worry about in this case. If so, I wonder if that person should be behind the wheel to begin with.

Handling & Performance:

Wonderful. Everything is so smooth from steering to shifting and acceleration to braking that it is a pleasure to drive such a well thought out and engineered car. I would, however, opt for the optional Stability program. I have tested these kinds of safety features on the race track and other test venues and I’m totally sold on the benefits – totally.

Styling:

Ok, I like the look even though it is pretty common place – how about you?

Fit and Finish:

Good. It’s made it Germany and most people in Europe still have a pride of workmanship that is less and less common in today’s world. But, management must be a part of the equation because some VW’s are manufactured in Mexico. Know what I mean?

Cost:

Good. Not steel, but a good value.

Conveniences and comfort:

Good stuff is standard and the option of a sunroof I can live without.

Consumer Recommendation:

In my opinion it is the best of the bunch listed here. Not that the others are bad, but this is just a bit better for the money.

Recognized Competition:

VW Rabbit $15-17,000, Dodge Caliber $14-20,000, Ford Focus $14-17,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $13-20,000, Pontiac G5 $15-17,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Nissan Versa $13-15,000, Toyota Matrix $15-17,000, Mazda3 $14-20,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000,  Hyundai Elantra $13-17,000, Subaru Impreza $18-33,000, Kia Rio $11-13,000, Scion tC $17,000.

Good News:

Fun to drive, quality construction seamless interface between car and driver.

Bad News:

Small profile for US highways as it is overshadowed by typically large cars, only fair fuel economy around town but decent highway results and it is rather plain Jane styling.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 150 hp 5 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission front wheel drive, electro mechanical power steering, anti-slip regulation control, electronic differential lock, antilock front and rear disc braking system, front and side air bags, side curtain head airbags, rear seat child anchor system, child safety door locks, daytime running lights, side protection door beams, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows with pinch protection, power mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering column, center armrest with cooled storage, intermittent wipers, front seats lumbar adjustment, fold flat front passenger seat, split folding rear seat, rear seat armrest with pass through, front and rear reading lights, fuel and trunk remote door releases, power central locking system, remote keyless entry, in-dash 6-disc CD changer / MP3 format readable, heated front seats, heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm system and immobilizer system. Options: power sunroof $1,000, Electronic stabilization program $450, 16” alloy wheels $400, Sirius Satellite radio $375.

Gas Stats:

$2.99/ Gal avg. July 10 ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,990.

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