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

2006 Pontiac Solstice (595)

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2006 Pontiac Solstice (595)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Pontiac Solstice two seater sport car. Its twin sister is the Sky from Saturn. I’ve got one on order so we can see how it compares with this very lovely lady – the Solstice.

The closest competition is the Mazda Miata MX5, but you know what, it is half the price of the BMW M which is over $51,000. The better news is that it is not “Half” the car. This will be the hottest car of the year. I rarely am so impressed with a car so quickly and after a week of driving in the mountains I became more and more impressed. Looking at the side by side comparison with such cars as the Miata, the BMW Z4 and even the BMW M, all these 2 seater convertibles make the Solstice the top dog for an underdog new kid on the block. Nice job GM… I say GM because I understand this design came from Saturn originally but they re-designed it and named it the Sky.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Wilmington , DE USA

Class:  – Two Seater

Cars: – Aztek, G6, Grand Prix, GTO, Solstice, SV6, Torrent and Vibe.

sol·stice  noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old French, from Latin solstitium, from sol sun + -stit-, -stes standing; akin to Latin stare to stand

1 : either of the two points on the ecliptic at which its distance from the celestial equator is greatest and which is reached by the sun each year about June 22d and December 22d

2 : the time of the sun’s passing a solstice which occurs about June 22d to begin summer in the northern hemisphere and about December 22d to begin winter in the northern hemisphere

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding – especially when you look at the price tag. Ok I have to say I wish it had Traction Control and ABS brakes and with its guaranteed success you can look for a supercharged version with more of the bells and whistles that will make it handle even better.

Styling:

Fantastic. It surely rivals cars at twice the money. Consider the chopped up styling of the much more expensive BMW Z4 and you begin to appreciate the clean sexy lines of this Solstice.

Fit and Finish:

Very good for the money, but there are some things Pontiac needs to improve. There is a virtual sea of plastic and grommets that are cheap spongy material that falls off in your hand. This is not an indictment but rather a bitch and complaint that tells GM it needs attention.

Cost:

Aggressive. The solstice came to play and GM is like a cornered animal that makes it that much more formidable an adversary. Look out Toyota you haven’t slain the Giant yet.

Conveniences:

Not a lot of stuff. Pretty austere as a matter of fact. But I was never impressed with anything that needed too much make up. I like natural beauty and this is surely the girl next door. You learn to appreciate her simplicity the older you get. And you wonder why you looked any further than the “Girl Next Door”.

Consumer Recommendation:

I would buy this for my daughter in a heartbeat. The price is right, it’s too small for boys to get too friendly and you can’t get an overnight bag in the non-existent trunk. School books and lunch, tennis racket and gym clothes are about it. With the top up you can get a few other things in there too. Forget the golf clubs too. If that is a must this is not the sports car for you. As a comparison the BMW Z4 at $37,000 has twice the cargo area at 9.2 cubic feet and only 5.4 for the Solstice.

Recognized Competition:

Pontiac Solstice $19,915, Toyota MR2 Spyder $25,000, BMW Z4 $35-42,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $19-24,000, Mazda Miata MX-5 $20-27,000, Nissan 350Z $28-40,000, Mini Cooper $17-25,000, Audi TT $34-47,000, Volkswagen New Beetle $17-22,000, Honda S2000 $34,050.

Good News:

Great styling (and that means great resale value), decent fuel economy, good engine power, very fun to drive and the top is easy to put up and down even if it isn’t power actuated. This is a keeper.

Bad News:

No standard ABS, no option for Traction control, poor visibility, some wind noise from the top fitting, rag top rear mounts are a bit wrinkled when up and in place, not for people over 5′ 9” tall and like so many cars today it is a sea of plastic components and some questionable sponge grommets and spacers.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter inline 4 cylinder dual overhead cam 177 hp engine, 5-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, 4-wheel independent suspension, power rack and pinion steering, Bilstein monotube shocks, dual stage air bags, 4-wheel disc brakes, theft deterrent passkey, cloth convertible top with glass window with defogger, front hinged hood, tinted glass, intermittent wipers, stainless steel exhaust, 6 speaker radio with CD player, leather wrapped shift knob, adjustable steering wheel, 3 cup holders, remote trunk release. Options: Cruise control, driver information center, steering wheel controls, fog lights, power locks, remote keyless entry, power windows and power mirrors, air conditioning, polished aluminum 18” wheels, 4-wheel ABS brakes, limited slip rear differential and MP3 player.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $19,915.

2006 Jeep Commander 4X4 (594)

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2006 Jeep Commander 4X4 (594)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Jeep Commander 4X4 Sport Utility Vehicle. Surely it is priced pretty well for this class vehicle but some will argue it is downright ugly. I think that’s a bit harsh, especially when you consider the Element and especially the Scion xB that can be characterized as “Uggggg-leeeee”.

I see the Commander as being a cross between the Hummer and the Land Rover. What do you think?

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 76%

Assembly – Detroit , Michigan , USA

Class: – SUV

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

Handling & Performance:

Quite good actually for a high profile vehicle without as wide a stance as the Hummer for example. I had the V8 version but one has to wonder if 25 hp makes all that much difference. Without lifting the hood I couldn’t tell if it was the V6 or V8. I loaded it to the brim with 7 adults and it pulled the load without a groan.

Styling:

Boxy is a surprise to me after they had adopted nice rounded corners in recent years. It’s like they’re not confident and the peer pressure is great for them to conform to all the rest. No balls to allow them to lead the way and be innovative. I hate followers, don’t you?

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Well priced at $29,000 and although the V8 Limited version with some other up’s and extra’s will cost over $37,000. Frankly they are not must have options anyway, in my opinion.

Conveniences:

If we’re old enough to vote and more importantly old enough to drive we surely should be responsible enough to fasten our seatbelts without a constant wailing reminder bell. Let’s say you’re on your own property and getting in and out doing chores around the old rancho. I don’t know about you but that reminder drives me wild. Give it a rest Jeep division of Daimler Chrysler.

Above I mentioned carrying 7 adults but I gotta tell you the two folks in the third row seats were pretty cramped. Those seats are ok in a pinch or for use by little people.

Consumer Recommendation:

For the money, among the competition noted here, I believe the Jeep is the winner. The reason is that even at the lower end of the price range for Jeep it is well appointed.

Recognized Competition:

Jeep Commander $28-38,000, Ford Expedition $33-45,000, (2007) Chevrolet Tahoe $33-37,000, Dodge Durango $29-38,000, (2007) GMC Yukon $34-38,000, Nissan Armada $35-43,000, Infiniti QX 56 $50-53,000, Hummer H2 $53,000, Land Rover LR3 $38-53,000, Lexus GX 470 $46,635.

Good News:

Priced well, comfy in first and second row seating, fold & tumble rear seats are great and very nice “Stadium” type seating.

Bad News:

Poor fuel economy (consider a whopping 57 hp per liter – not very good folks and that translates into poor performance), the return of square lines is a throwback and the softer lines were an improvement for Jeep.

Standard Equipment:

3.7 liter 210 hp V6 (a 235 hp V8 also available for $1,340), 5-speed auto trans, leather trim bucket seats, front and side air bags, ESP –Electronic Stability Program, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc brakes, Full-time 4 wheel drive system, traction control, remote keyless entry sentry key theft deterrent system power windows and locks, tire pressure monitor system, variable intermittent wipers, rear window wiper washer, air conditioning, 8-way power drivers and 4-way power passenger seats, second row fold and tumble seats, third row 50/50 bench, cruise control, stereo with CD player, tilt steering column, trip computer, illuminated entry, power heated fold away mirrors.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 19 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,290.

2006 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro Review (2001)

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2006 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro Review (2001)

2006 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro Review

BY Mike Mavilia

Overview:

Since the release of the 2005 model, the Audi A4 is new from the ground up and even more improvements in the 2006 models with new engines and new equipment packages. The A4 is a amongst the top luxury sports cars with similar cars being the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Lexus IS.

Road Test:

The 2006 Audi A4 is fun to drive and comes with all the sporty features you would expect in a luxury car. It feels like it’s riding on rails going around corners and the High-quality construction is evident inside and out. The all-wheel drive (Quattro) and the latest in active safety features helps keep the driver on the road no matter the conditions or situation. Driving in rain or snow is truly no match for the gripping power of the Quattro.

The A4 and its state of the art powertrain benefit greatly from the intercooled turbochargers, multi-stage intake manifolds, variable valve timing and direct injection (which seems to be the cleanest and most efficient means of blending fuel and air in an engine’s cylinders). The first thing I noticed on our test drive was how well the turbocharger converted this tame 4 cylinder into a zippy animal. Fuel economy is sacrificed somewhat for the ability to access the additional 30+ horsepower but if you need to get out of a tight jam on the highway or want to power through a windy road, it’s well worth the extra cost.

Each of the three transmission choices are good. The standard model comes with a six-speed manual, while options include a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and a continuously variable transmission (as we tested). There is also a normal mode and Sport Mode which made an obvious difference in performance when switched over to Sport. Shifting tightened up quite a bit and made first gear jump.

The Four-wheel independent suspension was amazing. With geometry that keeps tires on the ground and augmented with standard electronic stability assistance, keeping the car going where the driver wants is never a problem.

Fit and Finish:

The 2006 A4 comes in a range of models. Drivers who need to carry gear or cargo will appreciate the Avant wagon, which offers the cargo bay of a wagon while maintaining the A4’s sporty driving character. Enthusiasts who just can’t get enough power and want race track handling may prefer the S4, which features a powerful V8 engine and high-performance underpinnings.

Good News:

Excellent drive with All-wheel drive helps the A4 Quattro hug the road in turns. Fuel economy is good for local around town driving or highway roads. Ample horsepower to accelerate with ease.

Bad News:

Expensive to repair and maintain compared to Audi’s domestic competition. Requires the more expensive 91 Octane gas.

Standard Equipment:

2.0L I-4 Engine
6-speed manual w/OD Transmission
200 @ 5,100 rpm Horsepower
207 @ 1,800 rpm Torque
All-wheel Drive
ABS and driveline Traction control
16″ aluminum Wheels
Front air conditioning, dual zone automatic
AM/FM/Satellite-prep, seek-scan Radio
Keyfob (all doors) Remote keyless entry
Front and rear Fog/driving lights
Heated mirrors
Driver and Passenger Lumbar support

Gas Stats:

MPG up to 22 City / 31 Highway

Pricing:

MSRP $30,340

2006 Corvette Z06 (593)

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2006 Corvette Z06 (593)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2006 Corvette Z06. Paul says he feels the real story for this car is the engine that “IS” the Z06. In a world where race engines cost $50-100,000 this has to be the best performance “Production” sports car anywhere in the world.

It is also the best looking Corvette ever. It attracts attention and draws a crowd wherever it is seen. But you know what; it is actually affordable. And that is apparent by the lively sales activity at dealers and I’m told it sells for well over the sticker price.  

How could you not fall in love with this car? The only concern I see is there is nowhere to drive the way it should be driven. So much for “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” A couple of exceptions might be mountain road driving and the autobahn in Germany .

I have driven Brother John’s Ferrari 365 GTB and Daytona but as impressive as Ferrari is this Z is “as good as it gets”, Jack.  The horsepower and torque combined with its lightweight makes it the thorough bred it is.

But then there is always the voice of reason or contrary opinion when I feel so bullish about a car. My engineer friend Merkel filled me in on some car facts. But I feel too good to listen to the facts. But listen I must. Ok, lay it on me Merkel. “Well it is a terrible engine. It develops only 72 hp per liter. Every other car worth its salt gets 100 plus hp per liter. GM refuses to drop old push rod technology while the rest of the world is moving on to better technology”. Merkel points out that Honda, Toyota and other European production (non-high performance) cars get the same or better engine efficiency. Further he explains the cylinder head design – specifically the combustion chamber is flawed and won’t ever allow for the best performance of the engine. Ok Merkel, will you agree it is beautifully styled? “Yes, prettier than most other Corvettes, but I liked the older designs even better.”

Wow, just when I thought I’d found the perfect mate Merkel has to tell me she’s flawed.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – USA

Class:  – Sport Car

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Aveo, Blazer, Cavalier, Cobalt, Colorado, Corvette, Eqinox, Express,     HHR, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo, Silverado, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Trailblazer,                Uplander and Venture.

Handling & Performance:

One test drive will just blow you away. Awesome doesn’t adequately describe it. It is an unbelievable driving experience. And it is rumored a higher output power plant is in our future. Like 505 horsepower isn’t scary enough.

I toured the production plant where the Titanium intake valves are made for all Z’s and the company also is a prime manufacturer of valves and other parts for most race car engines. Paul explained Newton ‘s second law, Force=Mass times Acceleration. And one gram of weight equals 200 rpm. And since race engines can operate at 10,000 rpm the use of Titanium for the intake valves can add significant force in the engines output. The Z06 engine is hand assembled in Canada using Titanium valves and other special race engine components from the world over to make it unique in the production car world.

Bruno, who has driven Formula one race cars, drove the Z and was very impressed. He lives in the south of France and travels the world often, working in the race car industry. He predicts this Z06 will be hot in Europe . But I doubt they can make enough for the US demand in the first place.

Cowboys know there are some horses that love to run. And if you have ridden a spirited horse multiply that by 505 horses in the Z06 and you get a better picture of what it’s like to ride such a willing horse.

When you test drive the car slowly, it forces you to shift from 1st to 4th gear. The torque is so good you don’t need to go through the gears. I found when around town I would shift from first to third to fifth without the need for lower gears.

Styling:

Most everyone I interviewed agrees this is the most beautifully designed Vette ever.

Fit and Finish:

I believe Vette devotees will say this is the best ever design and assembly of any Corvette in the brands long history that began in 1953.

Cost:

Dollar for dollar this has to be the best value of any high performance sports car.

Conveniences:

I wrestled with the need for the keyless operation feature. I felt it was more of a gimmick than a practical application. I’ve used it in the Cadillac XLR and most recently the Infiniti M45. But I really began to appreciate this feature driving the Corvette. I literally didn’t take the key fob out of my pocket for a week. I have concluded a car key may not be needed at all in the near future. You approach the car and it unlocks, enter the cockpit and push a button on the dash and wa-la – you’re off and running. When you stop and walk away from the car it locks the doors. Too coooool.

Another feature I really like is the “Heads Up” display of the tachometer and speed on the windshield. Very nice. I missed that when driving other test vehicles.

Consumer Recommendation:

Honestly I don’t think I would buy one. Why you say? It is simply too fast. It is “Scary” fast. It takes on a life of its own as the most impressive machine on the highway all things considered. It is almost impossible to drive slowly. I don’t take drugs but this is as natural a high you’ll ever feel. But if I lived in Germany I think I’d put my name on the list to buy one.

Recognized Competition:

Corvette Z06 $44-65,000, 2005 Lotus Elise $42,990, 2005 Acura NSX $89,000, Cadillac XLR $76-97,000, Pontiac GTO $31,290, Ford Mustang $19-31,000, Dodge Viper $82-83,000, BMW M3 $49-57,000, Nissan 350Z $28-40,000, Honda S2000 $34,050, Porsche Boxster $45-55,000, Mazda RX-8 $26,435.

Good News:

Among the most memorable high performance sports cars I’ve driven and the only one without a “Gas Guzzler” tax because it gets such good mileage. And before you say they simply put it in 6th gear and stretch out the mileage. It doesn’t work that way. The EPA test requires a prescribed testing procedure so everyone’s on the same playing field.

Bad News:

Too fast for the street where the Highway Patrol is not as impressed as the driver is.

Standard Equipment:

7 liter 505 hp V8 engine, 6-speed manual trans (automatic not available), air conditioning, power windows and locks, power leather heated seats, XM radio with 6 in-dash CD player, front and side air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, traction control and Stability control.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $67,900.

2006 Nissan Quest 3.5 SE Mini Van (592)

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2006 Nissan Quest 3.5 SE Mini Van (592)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Nissan Quest 3.5 SE Mini Van. Targeted toward women buyers it is progressive in design and has that SUV look about it. That’s important because the competition is the very popular Sport Utility. Nissan expects 80% of buyers will be a woman.

The space age look they sought has been achieved in my opinion. But it’s all functional and controls are comfortably arranged.  

Driving Observations: Here are a few driving habits many of us display that we hate in others.

1.      Pull in front of traffic and then slow down.

2.      Vary speed like a Yo Yo for no apparent reason.

3.      Treat highway as a private slalom coarse for amusement.

4.      Driving slower than other traffic in your lane of travel forcing others to pass on the   right.

5.      Being inattentive – reading, putting on make up speaking on the cell phone.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Canton , Ohio USA

Class:  – Compact Van

Cars: – 350Z, Altima, Armada, Frontier, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Quest, Sentra, Titan     and Xterra.

Handling & Performance:

0-60 speed is a big surprise at about 8 seconds. That’s really fast for a Mini Van.

Styling:

Perhaps the bravest design of the interior – primarily in the control panel – Nissan stands alone.

Fit and Finish:

I’ve heard some negative comments about the quality issues of how well it is fitted together but I don’t buy it. I found it to be well assembled.

Cost:

If you go for all the options you will come dangerously close to $40,000. At that price it is hard to conceive there is anything else you could add to this well appointed vehicle. The best bang for the buck has to come from Kia Sedona. That’s a MUST test drive for serious buyers.

Conveniences:

There is a rearview camera with a video display on the dash. Although it is interesting it surely would take time to get accustomed to using it. If it prevented you from backing over the kids and their toys it would surely be worth the expense. The stow-and-go seats are the hot ticket and just what the doctor ordered for the active family. The power sliding doors continue to be a favorite for me.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you can’t really think of a good reason to have an SUV, go for the Mini Van. It will be more economical to operate and that translates into a sound family buying decision. You’ll likely never need the 4-wheel drive feature so characteristic of the SUV. The competition is made up of such great vans that I would suggest you test drive them all. If cost is of particular importance I really like the KIA Sedona. It is really busting into the market and continues to be the most cost competitive of the segment.

Top Recognized Competition:

Nissan Quest $24-34,000, Ford Freestar $20-30,000, Honda Odyssey $25-39,000, Mazda MPV $22-29,000, Toyota Sienna $24-38,000, Chrysler Town & Country $21-36,000, KIA Sedona $23-26,000.

Good News:

Innovative design, powerful, roomy with great high tech control devices.

Bad News:

Questionable use of color.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 240 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel power assist disc brakes with ABS and EBD Electronic Brake force Distribution, VDC Vehicle Dynamic Control system, TCS Traction Control System, power rack and pinion steering, dual power sliding doors and power rear liftgate, auto halogen headlights, fog lights rear sonar (sensing) system, roof rack and side rails, power heated mirrors, sound system with 6 in dash CD player, rear audio controls with wireless headphone capability, cruise control, rearview camera with 7” color monitor, power sliding sunroof dual zone climate control, rear heating and air conditioning system with rear controls, power front windows and rear vent windows, power door locks, 8-way drover and 4-way passenger heated seats, power adjustable foot pedals, leather front and second row seats, tilt steering column with leather wrapped wheel, remote keyless entry, front and side air bags, tire pressure monitor system, child safety rear door locks, immobilizer system and security system. If that isn’t enough here’s a few options: XM Satellite radio $350, DVD entertainment system with two 7 inch color display screens, remote control, two wireless headphones $1,900, Michelin PAX system package for run flat tires on 19” alloy wheels $850 and Navigation system for $1,800.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $33,500.

2006 Nissan Infiniti M45 4-Door Sedan (591)

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2006 Nissan Infiniti M45 4-Door Sedan (591)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2006 Nissan Infiniti M45 4-Door 5 passenger Sedan . This Nissan company high end product line brand has earned a place among several other snob appeal brands.

You know, those are the cars that make you feel special even if you aren’t. Why else would the “badge” add so much to the cost of this class of automobile? And why else would people be willing to pay more for the bragging rights to own what many others are unable to afford or at least are unwilling to give up other luxuries or necessities to have.

Datsun (predecessor name for Nissan) was the first Japanese car we bought back in the mid 1960s. That little 4 cylinder putt-putt was very stingy with fuel and at about 50 cents per gallon in the US at the time it was still a welcome change from the 7 mpg American V8’s powered cars. Datsun was one of the first but would soon have a lot of company in competition with the big three automakers in the World. Today Toyota is challenging GM for top dog.

The automobile continues to be the most convenient form of transportation yet all the while it takes away as much as it gives. Consider the following statistics and you’ll see what I mean. In 2003 there were 48 alcohol related fatalities every 30 minutes in the US alone. That translates to 17,520 every year. If that isn’t bad enough that number is accompanied by 20,735 alcohol related injuries from collisions. 4,749 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes and 70,000 were injured during the same period. 622 bicyclists were killed and 46,000 were injured. When you consider the total deaths from all auto related accidents is about 43,000 every year in the USA it puts several other causes of death in perspective.

If those opposed to war used the same energy to take issue with so much death and maiming on our highways the car would be abolished. We’d all be riding bicycles. Ok so it would be a healthier alternative. Those in opposition are in an uproar over 2,300 soldiers killed in the Iraq war over three years or about 700 per year. And cars kill 43,000 every year. The number one killer of all age 3-33. Pretty interesting eh?

Source: DMV statistics and California Highway Patrol and US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Well we can’t seem to avoid wars but we have the technology and ability to end nearly all highway deaths right now. You can see a paper written by Merkel Weiss at my website www.atthewheel.com under Point/CounterPoint – Editorials – “WHY ARE THERE SO MANY ACCIDENTS”.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Large Cars

Cars: – FX, G35, M, Q45 and QX56

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding comfort and control consistent with cars of this quality and high tech control devices listed below. The M35 gives you a V6 and this M45 is powered by a V8. The M comes with either a rear wheel drive or all wheel drive.

Styling:

Consistent styling to fit the luxury car mold that Infiniti seeks to be a part of. There are five trim levels: M35 (V6, rear-wheel drive), M35 Sport (V6, rear-wheel drive), M35x AWD (V6 and all-wheel drive), M45 (V8 with rear-wheel drive) and M45 Sport (V8 with rear-wheel drive).

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding attention to detail.

Cost:

Pricey as equipped.

Conveniences:

One of the most popular conveniences – keyless entry is embellished yet again so you can leave the key fob in your pocket or purse. The car senses the keys presence and unlocks the doors and trunk and allows you to start the car with a touch of a button on the dash. It is more gimmickry than practical but has caught on and now found on an increasing number of brands.

Consumer Recommendation:

Volvo is my pick, dollar-for-dollar, out of the competition noted here.

Top Recognized Competition:

Infiniti M $41-50,000, Mercedes Benz E-Class $50-82,000, Lexus GS $43-51,000, BMW 5-Series $43-57,000, Chrysler 300 $24-40,000, Cadillac CTS $29-51,000, Lincoln LS $39,285, Volvo S60 $31-38,000, Audi A6 $41-54,000, Jaguar S-Type $45-63,000, Acura RL $49-53,000.

Good News:

Great handling, smooth, comfortable ride, beautiful rosewood trim interior. Well appointed with high tech devices to make the car handle more safely.

Bad News:

Common design for many luxury cars.

Standard Equipment:

4.5 liter335 horsepower V8 engine with continuous variable valve timing control, 5-speed auto transmission, rear wheel drive, 4-wheel power ABS braking system, EBD Electronic Brake force Distribution, VDC Vehicle Dynamic Control, TCS Traction Control System, auto on-off halogen headlights, fog lights, 18 inch 8 spoke aluminum alloy wheels, power sliding glass sunroof, audio with in-dash 6-disc CD w/ MP3, voice recognition, Bluetooth, leather wrapped steering wheel w/ controls, intelligent key with pushbutton ignition, leather seats, power10-way driver and 6-way passenger seats, rosewood trim, power windows and locks, dual climate control, visors with extensions and vanity mirrors, folding rear armrest and pass through, cargo net with tie down anchors, front, side and curtain air bags, security system with engine immobilizer system and tire pressure monitor system.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $52,110.

2006 Buick Lucerne 4-Door CXS (590)

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2006 Buick Lucerne 4-Door CXS (590)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Buick Lucerne CXS 5 passenger sedan. The CX and CXL V6 and V8 are 6 passenger models.

If you are a golf enthusiast you surely know that Tiger Woods is the spokesperson for the brand. Boy was that a home run for Buick. I had the opportunity to meet Tiger at a press conference before the Torrey Pines Golf Tournament this past month. As well as being the number one golfer in the world today he is a gentleman as well. There were less than 10 automotive journalists invited to this prestigious event to cover the promotion of the Buick Lucerne.  

We were required to drive all the Lucerne models on a course around the San Diego area. Did they impress us and make their case, you ask? Well they did. It is one of the quietest and most comfortable passenger cars on the market at any price. Merkel (my engineer and author associate) would tell you that is one of the reasons for accidents these days. Why – well simply put comfort is one of the distractions of driving on our highways and byways. You can see his unedited published study at my website www.atthewheel.com under Point/CounterPoint – Editorials – “WHY ARE THERE SO MANY ACCIDENTS”.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Detroit , Michigan

Class:  – Large

Cars: – Lucerne , LaCrosse, Rainier , Rendezvous and Terraza.

Handling & Performance:

I must tell you this is a worthy competitor of the top recognized competition noted below.

And speaking of handling, we need to look at a new technology – “magnetic ride control suspension”. This is 21st century innovation is one of the reasons this is a great handling car. Have the dealer show you how it works. Buick made a display device to show exactly how the technology works. It is awesome and the simple use of magnetic force and magnetic material makes total sense in the application of shock absorbing and other controls.

Essentially it uses a magnetic material in the shock that is controlled by a magnetic field in variable levels of strength to relax or stiffen the shock motion depending on road conditions. It really works and you can feel it when compared with a car without the device.

Styling:

Design is distinctly Buick! It is however not the “Roadmaster” bulky design of the 1950s. Those models were called “Road Hogs” by us kids. Digger Odell’s dad (my adopted family) drove one of those road hog Buicks. I have good memories of riding in that Buick to the beach on those long hot summer days of my youth. We’d trek down bean field roads past what is now Disneyland (there were no freeways back then). Digger, by the way, was a nickname us kids gave him based on character of the time – “Digger Odell the friendly undertaker”. Digger’s mom drove a Studebaker and we’d refer to that as a Stupid-Baker. Kids have a way of cutting to the chase. That brand died before most readers were born.

Perhaps carmakers should listen to our kids to avoid future lost sales because of the perception of those who will ultimately be the consumers of tomorrow. For the record, we’d refer to Pontiac as a “Heap” to make fun of the advertising slogan of those days. Picture an American Indian with a flat hand held up to his forehead to shade his eyes from the sun. The slogan – “Ugh, Pontiac heap good car”. I wonder if that ad agency is still in business.

Fit and Finish:

This Buick is put together at least as well as any of the competition but I feel it is at the top of that list.

Cost:

Perhaps you get the best bang for your buck of those noted below. It is the classiest of the bunch in my opinion.

Conveniences:

Very good.

Consumer Recommendation:

I believe Buick has never been a better car. But then I felt the same about the Oldsmobile and GM dumped that model. Go figure. Me, I would have kept the oldest car in their lineup (over 100 years of history for Olds) and dumped the Pontiac . But they didn’t ask me. If you’re in the market for a new family car in this price range it is a must to test drive.

Recognized Competition:

Buick Lucerne $25-34,000, Chrysler 300 $24-40,000, Dodge Charger $22-35,000, Mercury Montego $24-29,000, Ford Five Hundred $22-28,000, Toyota Avalon $27-34,000.

Good News:

Extremely quiet and comfortable, powerful.

Bad News:

None

Standard Equipment:

4.6 liter 275 horsepower V8 engine, 4-speed auto trans, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power rack and pinion magnetic variable assist steering, magnetic ride control suspension, traction control, dual air bags plus front and rear head curtain air bags, on star service, rear child seat anchors and security locks, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system, tire inflation monitor system, power mirrors, dual zone climate control, stereo with MP3 CD player, cruise control, leather seating and steering wheel and power locks and windows.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 25 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $35,265.

2006 GMC Sierra Extended Cab (589)

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2006 GMC Sierra Extended Cab (589)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2006 GMC Sierra Extended Cab Pickup truck. This isn’t something for everyone but in cowboy country where I live it fits right in. But even cowboys like comfort in the trucks they drive and that’s where today’s trucks shine. The SUV-like interior makes you forget you’re in a truck at all. Rick calls these SUT’s for Sport Utility Truck. I agree Rick.

I have come to appreciate XM radio and miss not having it after a week of great song selection when testing a vehicle that has it. Some vehicles have Sirius Satellite systems, but I prefer XM. I particularly like the ones with a video display so you can see who the artist is and the title of the song.    

Public service: I commute 50 miles one way to the office. Yes 100 miles per day to and from the ranch. I know a lot of you do the same thing so you can’t say I’m all that crazy – even if I am. But that’s another story. What it has reinforced in me is the observation that when I travel within a reasonable variance of the maximum speed law (stay with the flow of traffic) the commute takes a scant 3-5 minutes more in exchange for not having to watch constantly for a black and white for 5-10 mph more. Think about it. Cut the stress and don’t try to be the fastest car on the track. There’s no trophy if you get to the office 3-5 minutes sooner.

Handling & Performance:

Like I said, this truck rides more like the sedan-like SUV than a truck. It just has a stiffer suspension. Put a load on it and you’d swear you’re in a Sport Ute.

Styling:

If it walks like a duck and has feathers, it’s probably a duck. Well, this looks like a truck to me. Those truck designers must get a lot of vacation time. “Ho hum, another truck to design. Let’s see, what should it look like”. We’ll daahh Blondie how hard could it be?

Fit and Finish:

Hey, it’s a truck, right – what’d ya expect? No – just kidding. It’s a great looking ride and shucks cousin, trucks are just getting too pretty, don’t ya think?

Cost:

Not cheap. Trucks are the most profitable products for most carmakers. They’re just too popular – needed or not. When I was just a lad one of my first vehicles was a Ford ½ ton pickup truck. Still one of my most favorite rides if I were forced to pick.

Conveniences:

These things have all the comforts of home, road, farm, ranch and more. Throw a bed in the back and you can live in this truck. Or for the same money you can buy a house, buy a bicycle and save on insurance or put a pool in the back yard.

Consumer Recommendation:

No matter what your preference there is a lot of fat in the prices. Don’t bend over too far and don’t be afraid to ask for a big discount. Of course they may suggest you don’t need all those features – and they’d probably be right. That will cut to price substantially.

Recognized Competition:

GMC Sierra $16-39,000, Toyota Tundra $16-34,000, Dodge Ram 1500 $21-51,000, Chevrolet $16-36,000, Ford F-150 $16-33,000, Nissan Titan $23-36,000.

Good News:

Power for the road ahead, comfortable, and not a lot of test-drives. I love simple menu’s, don’t you. I think I’ll move to China where you can have any color you want as long as it’s green. Think about it, that’s how it was when Henry Ford introduced the Model T and mass-produced the Model A. He offered any shade of Black.

Bad News:

Expensive for a truck that’s trying to be a Cadillac – even if this isn’t just any old truck.

Standard Equipment:

5.3 liter 295 hp V8 engine with hour meter, 4-speed auto trans 2-wheel rear drive, ABS front disc rear drum brake system with dynamic rear brake proportioning, high performance suspension, dual air bags with passenger sensing system, auto halogen headlights with daytime running feature, theft deterrent ignition, short cargo bed (5′ 8”) 6500 lb GVW rating, wide access rear doors, front recovery hooks, front power reclining 10 way adjustable leather bucket seats, Electric rear window defogger, deep tinted glass, stereo with 6-disc CD player, cruise control, power locks and windows, remote keyless entry, power mirrors with power fold, auto air conditioning, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, trailering wire harness, oil life monitoring system, chrome grille, chrome aluminum wheels, battery run down protection and 24 hour roadside assistance. OnStar plus XM radio, power sunroof.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 20 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $36,740.

2006 VW Jetta 2.5 (588)

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2006 VW Jetta 2.5 (588)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 4-door sedan. This is nice. I like the changes, even if it does resemble the Audi. Not that I dislike Audi. In fact the new grill treatment is growing on me, but I like the VW grill better.

I enjoy driving a manual transmission from time to time and this was one of those times. It was particularly nice because it had enough power and the proper gear ratios to allow fewer shifts. And that made my test-driving through the mountains a comfortable and fun experience. Now if they would only encourage the Highway Patrol to be more lenient with enforcement of posted speed limits. Really folks our cars are much more capable in all respects from when speed limits were posted on “OUR” highways. Today those limits are simply a way for the state to generate revenue any old time they want to. That just isn’t fair because such arbitrary enforcement sends mixed messages when they aren’t consistently applied. For example: 75 mph in a 65 zone is ok and even law enforcement drives at those speeds along with the rest of us. It’s like swimming with Shamoo. They only bother you when they are hungry. What kind of message does that send to drivers? 

Meanwhile, back in the Jetta I decided I prefer this model to the more expensive Passat that I recently tested and reported on. For the money it is a better value (in my humble opinion).

General Info:

Parts – Germany 35%, Mexico 35% US Canadian 8%, Engine – Mexico, Transmission –                      Argentina.

Assembly – Puebla, Mexico

Class:  – Compact Cars

Cars: – Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta Wagon, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon, Phaeton and                    Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

How cars look today is a function of the technology available to all manufacturers. Computer aided design (CAD) systems are also used to engineer how cars perform mechanically. More and more we’re seeing additions to the electronic control elements that correct or compensate for our humanness. Computer assists react in milliseconds to brake or not depending on the relative position of the car to the road and go so far as to specify individual wheels for ultimate control. In addition, the throttle is disabled long before our feeble ability senses the need to back off. Computers allow us to go faster – more safely. In the future technology already available will prevent accidents by overriding our intended actions when necessary. The ultimate “Back Seat Driver” is being assembled as I speak.

Driving schools will tell you motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death among Americans age 3 to 33. According to engineer, author and teacher Merkel Weiss the leading cause of all such accidents across the board is “Distraction”. I agree.

Styling:

You’ve come a long way baby. VW that is. It’s like they finally grew up, and in fact got so bold they hatched the Phaeton and although it is a nice car people weren’t ready for a high end VW.

Fit and Finish:

Very German, very good.

Cost:

Well priced. Good value for the money. One has to wonder if that’s because it is assembled in Mexico, as is the New Beetle.

Conveniences:

Below is a list of very thoughtful things that make this a delight to drive.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you like shifting you’ll appreciate this manual trans. The synchro is so good you can shift without the clutch. I’ve done that with a 13 speed big rig but haven’t felt so comfortable doing that in a car until I drove this Jetta. I don’t recommend you do it. If you’ve driven old cars before synchromesh transmissions were developed and first introduced by Cadillac in 1928, you can really appreciate how much improved transmissions have become.

Recognized Competition:

Volkswagen Jetta $18-24,000, Toyota Camry $18-26,000, Chrysler Sebring $20-31,000, Chevrolet Malibu $16-23,000, Pontiac G6 $16-29,000, Ford Fusion $17-22,000, Hyundai Sonata $18-23,000, Mitsubishi Galant $19-27,000, Kia Optima $16-20,000, Suzuki Verona $18-20,000, Subaru Legacy $22-34,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Honda Accord $18-29,000, Nissan Altima $18-30,000, Acura TSX $28-30,000.

Good News:

Well priced for good value, nice manual trans that helps to make it fun to drive, comfortable seats, visors with extensions, auto up and down power windows.

Bad News:

Can’t think of anything.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 150 hp inline 5 cylinder engine, front wheel drive, electro mechanical power steering, independent front strut and multilink rear suspension, ESP – Electronic Stabilization Program, ASR – Anti Slip Regulation, EDL – Electronic Differential Lock, ABS – Antilock Braking System with power assist disc brakes, front and side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, child tethers, anchors and rear door locks, daytime running lights, height adjustable seat belts, side protection door beams, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, locks and outside heated mirrors, center armrest with storage, adjustable intermittent wipers, drivers power recline seat, fold flat front passenger seat, split folding rear seat, rear seat armrest with storage and pass-through, dual illuminated front visor vanity mirrors, front and rear reading lights and cup holders, remote release for fuel filler and trunk, remote keyless entry with folding key, 16” alloy wheels with anti-theft locks, in-dash 6-disc CD player MP3 format readable, anti-theft and engine immobilizer system.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $20,290.

2006 Audi A3 3.2 S Quattro DSG6 (587)

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2006 Audi A3 3.2 S Quattro DSG6 (587)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Audi A3 3.2 S Quattro DSG6. If you’ve read previous reviews of mine on cars with DSG you know my feeling is that it is Bad News. Booo to Audi! Be very careful about accepting that Direct Shift Gearbox. Watch for how it works when you test drive the car and you’ll see what I mean. I’ve asked others if I’m koo koo about DSG. Car guys agree with my concerns. Try to parallel park (preferably downhill) for example and when you put it in reverse be sure there isn’t a car behind you.

Anyway aside from the lousy transmission it is truly a nice car. Oh heck I forgot to find out if a regular automatic trans is available. What with the hype they’re throwing out about how good the DSG trans is they may not even offer an option beside manual transmission. Let me know.

I was a taken aback at the interest people have shown in this car. Sometimes people are obvious in their interest in the cars I test as they were with this Audi. Several people actually took the time to get my attention and say how much they liked the car. Chrysler’s PT Cruiser was also one of those that turned heads when first introduced. Now they are a very common sight on the roads, but you know – they still turn heads.

 

Handling & Performance:

German engineering is quite superb in handling. That is perhaps the most noticeable quality of these designed for the Autobahn cars. I’ve owned a couple of Mercedes Benz cars over the years and developed a bias in favor of German cars generally, especially when it comes to how they handle. My Jewish boss got me started and when I asked why he supported German cars (Hitler and all that) his reply – I’m compelled to. Mercedes is the Germans legacy to the Jews.  Handle that one.

Styling:

Ok but it doesn’t instantly grab me. It will take a little time to warm up to.

Fit and Finish:

Very good but I did notice a design deficiency of the latch on the moon roof sunshade. It was broken and clearly not strong enough. I was startled when it let lose and slammed loudly from the spring-loaded mechanism. Nice thought but not well engineered.

Cost:

Not so good. Sure it has a generous supply of standard equipment included but the price reflects that. I’m always concerned that too much of the price tag is based on the “Badge” alone. But then I’m biased. Owning a foreign car repair shop for many years made me cautious about recommending Audi’s of the past. Cost, after all, has to include the cost to repair and maintain them. BMW and Audi were always real spendy.

Conveniences:

I have to tell you Audi is one of less than a handful of carmakers who will allow auto up and down power windows on all windows. Truly very convenient and it is amazing to me other car makers fail to trust us to be mature enough not to cut our heads off while putting the windows up. Hello! We’re not really all that stupid… are we? Anyway Audi provides “Pinch Protection” so we don’t hurt ourselves.

Consumer Recommendation:

If it appeals to you here are a few considerations. Don’t get the DSG transmission; determine if the Audi badge is worth the extra dough over the competition and test drive the small list of competitors listed here.

Recognized Competition:

Audi A3 $25-34,000, Pontiac Vibe $16-20,000, Toyota Matrix $15-19,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Saab 9-2X $23-27,000, Subaru Impreza Wagon $18-27,000, Acura TSX $28-30,000, Lexus IS 300 Sport Cross $31,105.

Good News:

Great array of standard equipment (that you’ll pay for in the MSRP), auto up and down power windows and it handles wonderfully.

Bad News:

DSG transmission (truly bad news), broken latch on the sunshade (design flaw), front sun visors don’t extend, jerky brakes and throttle (due to the transmission clutch system) and controls are overly complicated.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 250 hp 6 cylinder engine, 6-speed DSG Direct Shift Gearbox auto trans, all wheel drive, power ABS anti-lock braking system, ESP (Electronic Stabilization Program), 17” alloy wheels, compact spare tire, sport suspension, fog lights, power driver seat with lumbar support, center console w/ 2 power outlets (or his and her cell phone power slots), auto dual zone climate control, power windows with one touch up and down w/ power locks, electronic cruise control, 3-spoke multi function steering wheel, 60/40 split folding rear seat, Bose sound system w/ 6 in-dash CD player, electronic fuel door release, sport leather seats, front and side airbags with curtain bags, power mirrors, auto door locking, anti theft alarm system, child anchors and tethers, 4 year / 50,000 mile maintenance protection and limited warranty with 12 year corrosion protection and 4 year 24 hour roadside assistance.

Gas Stats:

21 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $33,980.

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