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

2005 Ford Five Hundred Limited AWD (565)

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2005 Ford Five Hundred Limited AWD (565)

Overview:
This week we’re going to look at a new entrant for Ford in 2005. The 5-passenger Five Hundred Limited AWD sedan reminds me of an FBI staff car especially painted black. But it is much nicer on closer inspection. I like the nice touches like the analog clock and the word grain trim with a clean instrument cluster.

The question is “is it too plain”? Well you can look at it as clean lines or uncluttered with too many angles and obstructions. In any case the quiet, smooth comfortable ride helped me to warm up to the effort by Ford to introduce another sedan for our choice. The rear leg room is appreciated and in spite of it being classed as a mid size, I think it is large. But I was really surprised how well it handled in the mountains. Much of that performance for a large sedan is attributed to the all wheel drive system.

Public Service driving observation: Occasionally I notice something I have to share with my readers. Window tinting. Does it bug you as much as it bugs me? I don’t mean manufacturers tinting of the windows, I mean near black out.

What’s that all about? Are they hiding? They can’t be all that ugly. Well, I find it not only a distraction, it is dangerous too. Not being able to see through the windows blocks vision and I know that is why I go around commercial vans without windows. Vision through a car gives you more information of the road around those cars. Not only is it discomforting it is unlawful.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Chicago, IL, USA

Class:  – Midsize

Cars:  Crown Victoria, Escape, Escape Hybrid, E-series Van and wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer and sport trac, F150, F250, F350, Focus and wagon, 500, Freestar, Freestyle, GT, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus and wagon and T-Bird.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding for a large sedan because it is all wheel drive. Very cool.

Styling:

Clean lines but a little too rounded and bland for my taste. It is based on (Ford-owned) Volvo\’s P2 platform (Volvo S60 and XC90). However it does not use more expensive Volvo parts as Ford uses steel suspension while Volvo uses pricier cast aluminum.

Fit and Finish:

For the most part it is well assembled. But I was surprised that this new car had developed a bubble on the dashboard. It would appear it was caused from the hot sun on the dark vinyl covering.

Cost:

Really quite good for this roomy sedan.

Conveniences:

Customary.

Consumer Recommendation:

Take a look at the 2006 and then you’ll likely want to save some money buying the 2005 because it hasn’t really changed enough to warrant the newer year.

The Competition:

Ford Five Hundred $22-28,000, Nissan Altima $17-29,000, Mercury Sable $21-24,000, Ford Taurus $21-24,000, Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Honda Accord $16-29,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-30,000, Hyundai XG350 $25-26,000, Mitsubishi Galant $19-26,000, Mazda6 $19-27,000.

Good News:

Good size trunk, best in class passenger volume and rear leg room.

Bad News:

Rather plain styling inside and out, troublesome blind spot from the large post – driver side, of course.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter V6 203 horsepower engine, 18” bright aluminum wheels, fog lights, auto headlight control, power heated mirrors, 8-way power driver’s seat, radio with 6-CD player, climate control, information computer, o/s temp and compass display, woodgrain accents, leather trimmed seats with heated driver and passenger seats, 4-way power passenger seat with manual lumbar, all wheel drive system, power windows and locks, cruise control, power steering, anti lock braking system, child latch safety system, anti theft system and remote keyless entry with remote perimeter lighting.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $27,845.

2005 Jeep Liberty Turbo Diesel 4-WD (564)

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2005 Jeep Liberty Turbo Diesel 4-WD (564)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2005 Jeep Liberty Diesel. The old grey mare ain’t what she used to be, and the Jeep isn’t either. Jeep has followed many European leaders and adopted the Common Rail Diesel engine to power this great little Jeep.

Diesels have changed a lot and one of the more noticeable differences includes the fact they are powerful, quiet and smooth. At idle you will sense the most diesel noise just slightly. You won’t have to turn off your engine when ordering fast food drive through\’s. In my Dodge Ram 3500 that’s exactly what I have to do because they can’t hear my order over the roar of the diesel engine.

Public Service driving observation: If you ever need to know if a road is open here are some suggestions from the LA Department of Public Works. You can call 661 947 7173 or go to the web www.ladpw.org. Click on Road closures or for State Highways go towww.dot.ca.gov for a fascinating array of things to see. You can even look at many roads from live camera locations.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 81%, Engine – Italy, Transmission – US

Assembly – Toledo, Ohio, USA

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: Commander, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Wrangler.

Handling & Performance:

Common-Rail is a high-pressure injection system for Diesel engines with direct injection. In structure and method of functioning, it differs significantly from conventional systems. The central part of the system is a shared high-pressure storage (Rail). Other than in systems with directly driven block or individual pumps, pressure generation and fuel injection control are decoupled in the Common-Rail fuel injection system. The injection pressure is generated independently of the speed and can be freely selected within a broad range. The injection control by means of quick-action solenoid valves permits multiple injection, which leads to a significant reduction of pollutant emissions and noise development.

Benefits:

· Delivers high torque at low engine speed

· Applicable to a variety of cylinder configurations

· Potential solution to the future emissions challenge

· Flexible design can be easily integrated into diesel engine

· Excellent application flexibility relative to injection pressure, timing, pilot and post-event      control

· Proven application and manufacturing experience. Bosch was first to market with Common  Rail for passenger car applications

· Delivers quiet, high-torque, low-emission and efficient diesel engine performance to the  consumer

Horsepower – Definition: Torque times RPM = Horsepower explains why race cars develop so much HP. Formula one cars are at the high end of rev’s and million dollar engines will turn at upwards of 15,000 RPM’s. Think of your personal driver that is straining at 5-6,000 RPM’s.

Styling:

Well, what can you say… it’s a Jeep and simply has stuck to a tried and true look for the outdoorsman. And if you take a look at the Hummer – pride and joy of the Desert Storm War – it just looks like an oversized Jeep, as well it should.

Fit and Finish:

So much better than even a decade ago. But then the materials and assembly procedures have improved dramatically. All that aside, they are well-assembled – nice job guys.

Cost:

For me, I think this Jeep is properly priced and competitive along side the abundant list of SUVs it is up against.

Conveniences:

Good.

Consumer Recommendation:

This Liberty is a good choice for a couple of reasons. One – they are the perfect size for most driving needs. Second – the diesel is powerful, long lasting and today’s common rail injection makes them more fuel-efficient.

The Competition:

Jeep Liberty $19-25,000, Nissan Xterra $21-27,000, Ford Escape $19-27,000, 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid $27-29,000, Subaru Forester $21-28,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18-23,000, Toyota RAV4 $19-20,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $18-25,000, Mazda Tribute $20-25,000, Kia Amanti $25,500, Chrysler Sebring $20-31,000, Honda CR-V $20-25,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $22-26,000, Hyundai Tucson $17-23,000.

Good News:

Innovative diesel with excellent performance, powerful and handles well

Bad News:

None.

Standard Equipment:

Innovative diesel with excellent performance, powerful and handles well

Gas Stats:

21 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $25,225.

2005 Nissan Altima SER 4-Door Sedan (563)

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2005 Nissan Altima SER 4-Door Sedan (563)
Overview:

This week I continued with another Nissan product, the Altima SER 4-door sedan. I took a trip to Lake Tahoe, California and actually Nevada too. I love mountain driving and hadn’t had the opportunity to give it the Crest Test over the San Gabriel mountain chain in Southern California, so Tahoe would have to do.

I began my journey from the high desert of Acton up to highway 395, which is a shorter distance from Los Angeles than I-5, and the landmarks are great to see. Up the Owens Valley past the Death Valley and Mount Whitney turnoffs, through lovely little towns like Lone Pine, Independence and Bishop. You can take glider rides up around the majestic Mt. Whitney that offer an exhilarating experience. Then continuing past Mammoth Lakes where snow skiing doesn’t get much better. You pass Lake Crowley so famous for trout fishing and June mountain ski resort and Mono Lake with its rich history.  

Finally I reached the last leg which is a short 11 mile drive up the Kingsbury Grade to South Lake Tahoe. This is truly one of the most beautiful lakes in the land. And what about the drive… I almost forgot because it was uneventful and comfortable. This is one capable car and that makes the drive easy and fun as it handles the tight mountain curves. It’s easy to fall in love. Either that or I’m simply “Easy”.

Public Service driving observation: Try not to follow too close for lots of reasons: it will tick off the car in front of you. You will be hard pressed to stop in time when traffic slows quickly. It will not allow you to see debris in the road that can do damage to your car – especially if it causes a blowout.

Handling & Performance:

This is no slouch – 260 horsepower gives you all juice you need in and out of the mountains. And it is a smooth power. Japanese cars just do it with class and without fan-fare. The American love affair with cars goes way back and tradition has always meant loud exhaust that somehow signifies power and performance. Not so folks – it just makes a lot of noise and those days went out in the 70s for good I believe. Today’s cars, even American, don’t have to make noise to be respected for their performance. Ok, Corvette and Viper may be exceptions. In any case you won’t be disappointed by this Altima’s performance.

Styling:

Not my favorite styling wise, but it’s not ugly I-ther.

Fit and Finish:

The Japanese have been unwavering over the past three decades in how well they put their cars together. It is a cultural thing so all cars manufactured in Japan are excellent, in my opinion. I’ve traveled there and watched them work. The Altima is assembled in the US and they too have done a great job. I suspect the Japanese influence must have some affect on the work ethic adopted here. Mercedes Benz (Daimler) is another example of old country meeting new and has unquestionably had a positive affect on Chrysler cars.

Cost:

Well it isn’t cheap but the MSRP tag of $29,200 didn’t surprise me. I often refrain from looking at the price until I’ve tested the car. This is worth the money.

Conveniences:

Nissan products go the extra yard to include a lot of goodies and gadgets with their cars. This is no exception. If you read my review last week on the Infiniti G35 you’ll recall it too was well appointed.

I really liked the addition of the MPG gauge in the instrument cluster. You catch yourself driving better (lighter on the gas pedal) because of it – especially at today’s pump prices.

Consumer Recommendation:

Well, I gotta level with you. If I had my “druthers” I’d be hard pressed to not give the nod to the Infiniti G35 because the cost is very similar. I have to admit the Infiniti “Badge” is a strong tug on my ego. But more than that the G35 included a couple of control features that I like – the VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) and EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution).

The Competition:

Nissan Altima SER $17-29,000, Ford Taurus $21-24,000, Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Toyota Camry $18-26,000, Mitsubishi Galant $19-26,000, Mazda 6 $19-27,000, Kia Amanti $25,500, Chrysler Sebring $20-31,000, Honda Accord $16-29,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, handles well and lots of power.

Bad News:

Although performance and handling is good Nissan doesn’t block road noise as well as they could.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 260 hp V6 engine with continuous variable valve timing control, 5-speed automatic transmission with “Tip Tronic” or manual shift control, 4-wheel power assisted anti-lock disc brake system, Xenon headlights, fog lights, dual power heated mirrors, 3-gaughe cluster for volts, oil pressure and fuel consumption, power sunroof with tilt and slide, sport leather front heated seats, Bose audio system with 6 CD player and speed sensitive volume control, power windows, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering column, 60/40 split rear fold down seat, remote trunk and hood release, rear and side windows defoggers, center console, 8-way power driver seat with lumbar support, air conditioning, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel with control switches, trip computer with outside temperature, auto on/off headlights, power door locks, dual air bags, immobilizer key system, child safety rear door locks and latch system and vehicle security system.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,200.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – USA ?

Class:  – Midsize

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

2005 Infiniti G35 4-Door Sedan (562)

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2005 Infiniti G35 4-Door Sedan (562)

Overview:
This week I had a Nissan Infiniti G35 4-Door Sedan and from the good old days of Datsun to the good old days today Nissan has been a great product. Being in the foreign car repair business for many years you get a sense of what cars slip under the radar. This is one of those cars. You don’t hear a lot of talk about repairs needed for Nissan products.

So I guess you have to begin paying attention to what you don’t hear. You know, like when a tree falls in the forest and there is no one there does it make a noise?

This car immediately felt like a BMW inside controls, for example, to me – and outside lines are classy. Since buying that 66 Datsun in 65 I have watched them and like what I see. Toyota – Look out!

Public Service driving observation: Always give yourself ample room between you and the car in front of you. Smart cruise control on some cars gives you a good sense of what we too often forget because of all the distractions – something a computer doesn’t have.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Compact

Cars: FX, G35, M, Q45 and QX56

Handling & Performance:

Really great because not only is it fast it is smoothly fast. This is a fun car to drive. Vehicle Dynamic Control uses an array of sensors to determine your steered path and help keep you in control. If you understeer or over steer (fishtail) it applies appropriate brake pressure to individual wheels and control engine output to hold your intended direction. Traction control senses wheel spin and reduces engine output to the slipping wheels. Amazing! The limited slip differential enhances overall traction by managing the speed and torque differences between drive wheels to minimize wheel spin that is most important in rain, snow or mud conditions.

It will be a while before other carmakers put important technological features that are standard on this car.

Styling:

This is a lovely looking automobile. I liked the wheels and was pleased to overhear some young men saying “Nice Wheels”. Not to me and they didn’t know I could hear them and that’s what was cool – knowing others had the same opinion. I guess we like to be validated. Thanks guys.

The signature analog clock is a nice touch – Funny how you notice the small things when they are classy and unique. Everyone else is digital this and that, but the departure from a digital clock is smart.

Fit and Finish:

Wonderful. This product just gets better every time I test drive one. My friend Sergio works at Nissan and I get the sense it is also a good company to work for. And it stands to reason that people who work for the company will do a better job if they like the team. That’s what makes winners. Kudos’ to all the Nissan team.

Cost:

I guessed it right on the nose. After a while I can pretty much guess within a thousand or two what the car will cost. This one was easy and I feel it is worth the money.

Conveniences:

You won’t see all the great stuff but you’ll feel it in the ride and handling. This is a very well appointed car befitting its overall quality. It’s obvious they pulled out all the stops.

Consumer Recommendation:

This has been a favorite of mine and now the styling improvements in my opinion make it one of the cars of the year in my book.

The Competition:

2005 Infiniti G35 $30-33,000, 2005 Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $26-54,000, Lexus ES 330 $32,000, Audi A4 $26-44,000, Saab 9-3 $27-43,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-30,000, Lexus IS 300 $30-31,000, Jaguar X-Type $30-31,000, Nissan 350Z $27-37,000, Acura TL $33-35,000, Acura TSX $27-29,000, BMW 3-Series $30-36,000, Chrysler 300 $24-40,000, Cadillac CTS $31-51,000,Volvo S40 $24-28,000.

Good News:

Great design, well put together, fun to drive, just the right size, a bunch of standard stuff that is really cool and not bad fuel economy either.

Bad News:

Ok, so this may be a car with too many things and too smart for its own britches. I had a little glitch in the electrical … like the car quit running. But it was something simple.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 298 hp V6 front engine with continuous variable valve timing control, 6-speed manual transmission with rear wheel drive, independent front and rear sport tuned suspension with 4-wheel power assisted anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), viscous limited slip differential, engine speed sensitive power steering, VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), traction control and Cruise control. Xenon headlights with integrated fog lights, 18 inch aluminum alloy wheels, power heated outside mirrors, audio system with 6-in dash CD with MP3 playback, illuminated steering wheel audio controls, leather seats with heated front seats and 8-way power adjustments on the drivers seat – 4-way on the passenger seat, aluminum trim, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power windows with auto up and down, climate control, temp and compass display, illuminated visor mirrors, folding rear center armrest with pass through, cargo net and tie down anchors, dual front and side air bags, roof mounted curtain side impact air bags front and rear, child anchors and tethers, remote keyless entry, security system with immobilizer and tire pressure monitor system with warning light.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $30,600.

2006 Dodge Charger SXT (561)

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2006 Dodge Charger SXT (561)

Overview:
This week I’m really excited about yet another Chrysler product that breaks the mold of the boring array of cars on the market today. Really, this 2006 Dodge Charger SXT is special because I expected it to cost a lot more.

Friend and writing associate Merkel Weiss (design engineer, teacher and car nut) agree on a lot of things, but the marriage of Daimler and Chrysler is not one of them. I believe it’s great for the products and he doesn’t. In his heart of hearts I think he does, but he is hiding it well.

You can feel the solid influence of Mercedes Benz people in this “All American” product. I don’t want to say it was a bucket of bolts in the old days, but relative to what you get in today’s Chrysler’s the improvement is so great as to warrant mention. Tell you what, you test-drive this Charger SXT and if you don’t agree write me and I’ll voice your opinion next time around.

Public Service driving observation: Road Rage – don’t waste your time or energy on getting mad or even with idiots on the highway who think they are god’s gift to Nascar on our highways. They are small and insignificant and they tick me off just as much as they do you. But don’t give them the satisfaction of knowing that you are remotely aware of their presence. Move over when they tailgate you. Let them cut in to gain 20 feet of space in front of you. If they pass you – that’s ok. Disarm them by being the bigger person.

Handling & Performance:

This is a relatively big car but it handles much like a Mercedes on tight turns. Even cynical Merkel likes it handling characteristics. I took it over the San Gabriel Mountains on a wonderfully “less traveled” road from LA to the Desert. It’s hard to find but worth the trek because very few know about it – so it is a great test area for me. It revealed the cornering capability is excellent – especially for a big car.

Styling:

If you read my column much you know that I can’t say enough good things about the designers at Daimler – Chrysler. They simply are the best in today’s world. They have been brave and bold in going way outside the box in giving us something different. Prowler, PT Cruiser, 300 M, Crossfire and this Charger. You gotta love them for giving you a real choice. And when you look around Chrysler is having a big impact on the rest of the competition who are copying them from design to marketing (employee discount example).

As to the resemblance to the older classic Chargers I just don’t see much influence. But that’s ok because it is a great looking car.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent and for the money this is a great buy. And for you Chrysler fans you will instantly see the dramatic difference. You’ll say, as I did, when have you seen such a well-put together Chrysler product – ever? You’ll feel the solid bolted down feeling built like a brick s.h. 

Cost:

This is perhaps the best for the buck this year.

Conveniences:  

Generous. 

Consumer Recommendation:  

You’ve gotta drive this car. 

The Competition:

2006 Dodge Charger SXT $22,320, 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo $22,280, 2006 Chevrolet Impala $21,330, 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix $23,060, 2005 Pontiac Bonneville $27,965, 2005 Ford Five Hundred $22,165 (2006 price not avail).

Good News:

Actually good fuel economy for a big car, most power of the competition.

Bad News:

None.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter high output 250 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans with manual (AutoStick) mode, 17” steel wheels, power rack and pinion steering, dual air bags, traction control, ESP (Electronic Stability Control Program), 4-wheel ABS disc brake system, cloth low back bucket seats, front seats lumbar adjustment, air conditioning, tilt / telescopic steering column, keyless illuminated entry, speed sensitive power locks, theft deterrent system, power windows and locks, sound system with CD player, window integrated antennae, power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:   

MSRP $22,320.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2005 – An Automotive Love Affair

 

2005 Ford Focus Sedan ZX5 SES 5-Passenger (560)

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2005 Ford Focus Sedan ZX5 SES 5-Passenger (560)

Overview:
This week we’re testing the 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 SES 5-passenger sedan. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told my kids about the world condition of oil and it’s time to dump the gas burners and buy a fuel-efficient car. Well you can tell kids, but you can’t tell them much.

 

 

Well you can imagine I was thrilled to see this Ford has achieved 32 highway miles per gallon. Gas that is. And I will share with you one more time; the Europeans achieve much more in their clean diesel burning cars. What’s the matter with us in the US? Are we whacko? Don’t get me started.

This is a redesigned Focus and a great job to get it more car like than original versions. I liked the idea but the execution of the design was ugly. This, while being much better, is commonplace.

I did experience an unusual problem. It had a sticky gas pedal. It was annoying and I couldn’t determine why it was doing it but the linkage had to be hanging up somewhere.

Public Service driving observation: Occasionally I notice something I have to share with my readers. This thought is about your seat belts. Don’t listen to the politically correct folks who tell you to “Click it or Tick-it”. Be knowledgeable and understand why you need to buckle up. The real reason is that if you get into an accident and are not wearing a seatbelt the air bag may cause the opposing forces to break your neck. Look after number one and you will demand the same for your passengers.

 

General Info:

 

Parts – n/a

Assembly – n/a

Class:  – Compact

Cars:  Crown Victoria, Escape, Escape Hybrid, E-series Van and wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer and sport trac, F150, F250, F350, Focus and wagon, 500, Freestar, Freestyle, GT, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus and wagon and T-Bird.

 

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding for a car that will cost about $17,000. How do they do that? And even though it is only 136 horsepower it is a great family car or commuter. I always appreciate the smaller turning radius easy to park yet big enough for the rare moments I carry more than me to and fro.

Styling:

Not all that good. Boring is a better term. Basic also comes to mind. But then I’ve heard that a lot from folks who are big on Chrysler because they have the balls to be different. This is a redesign for Ford and I believe it is a step up from the previous models.

Fit and Finish:

Average for this class car. The gaps and seams will be less precise than more expensive cars in most cases but in its class it is good.

Cost:

I told my sister, Carol dump those gas-guzzling bombs and buy a more cost efficient car (to buy and to operate) or quit complaining the Corvette and El Camino are expensive to operate.

Conveniences:

Quite good and common for the class with a lot of manual stuff. Air conditioning and seats to name a couple. Then I was amazed it had crank windows. I glanced over and found someone riding in the car with me groping around to put the windows down. You just don’t see cranks much any more.

Consumer Recommendation:

Get a grip. For the money this is a great commuter, an inexpensive fuel-efficient family car and easy to get in and go. You may also want to look at the wagon and hatchback models.

The Competition:

Ford Focus $13-18,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $10-18,000, Pontiac Sunfire $11-15,000, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Subaru Impreza $18-32,000, Dodge Neon $14-21,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-15,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Saturn ION $11-21,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, VW Golf $16-20,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-35,000, Suzuki Aerio $13-17,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Kia Optima $16-20,000.

Good News:

Low cost to purchase and operate, comfortable ride for 5 adults.

Bad News:

Plain Jane design that is uninteresting and harder to fall in love with. Me, I’ve concluded the homely ones are often the best – know what I mean? Oh, almost forgot to note it had a sticky gas pedal.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 136 hp inline 4 cyl engine, 4-speed auto trans, dual power mirrors, rear wiper washer and defrost, solar tinted glass, fog lights, air conditioning, manual seat height adjusters, 60/40 split folding rear seat, console with 3 cup holders, map light, sound system with CD player, tilt and telescoping leather wrapper steering wheel, remote lift gate release, front wheel drive, independent suspension, front disc and rear drum brakes, power rack and pinion steering, power windows and locks, cruise control, dual air bags, child safety rear door locks, antitheft system and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,905.

2005 Hummer H2 (558)

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2005 Hummer H2 (558)

2005 Hummer H2
Overview:
This week we’re stepping into the 2005 Hummer H2 that reminds me how much I’m looking forward to comparing it and other SUVs to the H3. They just hit the press fleet and I’m scheduling one now.

I always enjoy driving this special vehicle, beginning with the original H1 Alpha that was slightly adjusted for street use right from Desert Storm. It is unique in the whole world that is so populated with commonplace everything that can be so boring. This will add a little spice to your life. You also don’t get much better for off road confidence. The wide track gives that feeling of stability. Surely I don’t get that feeling in other high profile SUVs. You do get that feeling you can take on all the terrorist single handed, even if your name isn’t John Rambo.

I took the time to go the long way from the high desert to Los Angeles. Up over the San Gabriel mountains (via Sand Canyon) and you’d be impressed. I didn’t hold back and felt very comfortable even in turns at 30 mph over recommended speeds. It is amazingly sure footed for such a big guy.

Public Service item: Occasionally I notice something I have to share with my readers. Ok, so you’ll say that I have a keen sense of the obvious but here goes anyway. A simple driving tip and common courtesy to avoid “Road Rage” is that if you find you are “Not” passing cars in the lane to your right, you should move into that lane. That prevents those traveling faster than you from having to pass on the right. I’ve gotta tell you, if you’ve ever driven the roads in Europe, you know what I mean. They have to be the most aware and polite drivers in the world. I’ve driven in some of Asia and much of Europe. I love European drivers.

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Mishawaka, Indiana, USA

Class:  – Special Purpose – SUV

Cars:  H1 Alpha, H2 and H3

Handling & Performance:

This is more practical than the H1 because it is a full foot narrower so it actually fits in a usual parking space and making it generally easier to maneuver. It also rides really well. I took the H1 up to Las Vegas to deliver a large piece of equipment and forgot my kidney belt. Not a good thing. So this H2 was a welcomed change and improvement on the handling characteristics of the H1. The H2 is also very fast and that means it will suck up gas like it were cheaply abundant. The range, of course, is still 300 miles as is common with all cars. They simply provide a gas tank big enough for the cars performance that will give it a range of 300 miles. For the guzzlers the tank just get bigger.

Styling:

Unique. Your Hummer won’t be confused with any other car on the planet. That’s why I believe it is so popular. What a fluke… from the Desert Storm short war to the streets. Only in America.

Fit and Finish:

Rugged. But this H2 is more refined than the original H1 as you’d expect. When the H2 hit the scene you knew it would become more SUV’ish and the trend continues with the H3.

Cost:

It will set you back half of the price of the H1 so it goes to show you that the more extreme the higher the price tag. So is this just a wanna-be Hummer? For most people they won’t see much difference except the cost is half of the original.

Conveniences:

Typical of most SUVs. It is equipped however with equipment to allow it to cross water up to the doors, or past the wheel wells. You can do that in a passenger car but not guaranteed.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you want to be different, do off roading for fun or necessity, tower over other traffic and come out on top in case of an accident and finally don’t care what the cost of moving a truck this size you can’t help wanting one of these Hummers. You can’t be disappointed because there isn’t really anything to compare it too. You’re all alone in a sea of sameness. And you’ll sit tall in the saddle Cowboy!

The Competition:

VW Touareg $37-58,000, Hummer H2 $52,000, Cadillac Escalade $54-70,000, Lincoln Aviator $41-44,000, GMC Yukon Denali $50-52,000, Audi Allroad quattro $40-47,000, Land Rover LR3 $38-49,000, Volvo XC90 $35-45,000, Acura MDX $37-44,000, BMW X5 $42-70,000, Infiniti FX $35-46,000, Porsche Cayenne $41-89,000, Lexus GX 470 $46,225, Mercedes M-Class $40-49,000.

Good News:

Unique driving experience, superior off road ability, great sound system and it is cost competitive. Great if you want a war fortress in the sense that Sports Cars are like Jet fighter cockpits and V-Dubs are rather cutsie and trucks and sedans are serviceable.

Bad News:

Horrible gas-guzzler

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter 325 hp V8 engine, 4-speed auto trans, 3-piece ‘ladder’ type frame, indep front suspension with torsion bars, coil spring rear suspension, electronic transfer case, electronic locking rear differential, traction contool, front and rear recovery loops, dual front air bags, remote keyless entry, 4-wheel disc brakes, auto headlight control, theft deterrent system, onstar system one year included, leather seating, 8-way power heated front seats with driver memory, fold flat 2nd row heated seats, rear seat audion controls, triple sealed doors, driver information center, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, stereo with CD and cassette players, Bose premium speaker system, heated power folding mirrors, front winch receiver, underbody production, class II trailer hitch.

Gas Stats:

”Horrible” City and “Not much Better” Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $52,430.

2005 Volkswagen Touareg SUV (557)

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2005 Volkswagen Touareg SUV (557)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2005 Volkswagen Touareg SUV. Classy is the first words to come to mind when looking at this SUV. And although I like SUV’s like most of my readers I resist recommending them because of the impending fuel fiasco.

15-20 real miles per gallon is unacceptable, so sending the message to the carmakers means consumers will have to buy Hybrids to push the demand up. That’s the only way we can speed up the development of alternatives to using fossil fuels. As long as we accept the cost of gas carmakers will never put money into research in the way they would if sales of “Gas Hogs” sag in a serious way. 

Ok, enough stumping on this issue. Let’s assume you don’t give a damn about the extra $1,200 per year (average of 15,000 miles per year at $2.65 per gal.), then this is one of the finest SUVs on the market for 2005. Incidentally, Motor Trend awarded it Sports Utility of the year if you give any weight to awards like that. Me, I believe magazines like that grant such awards based as much on the advertising budget from that car or truck company. Cynical? I suppose, but it’s true no matter what they tell you about the separation of the Editorial and Advertising departments. (Note: I owned two newspapers for a time – but of course we would never be influenced by how much Coors Brewing, for example, spent at our paper).

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 1%, Germany 80%.

Assembly – Bratislava, Slovakia

Class:  – SUV

Cars:  – Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, Phaeton, R-32 and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

Braking should be fantastic with all the various assist programs but I must say I didn’t feel any difference. But it sounds good, eh? Seriously though, the ESP and brake assist programs make safe handling as good as cars can be today.

Styling:

Cream of the crop. It’s a VW but it is as strong a luxury competitor as any on the market.

Fit and Finish:

It’s the tops.

Cost:

Strongly competitive with all the standard features that are mechanically significant. Very nice and they’ve done it at a decent price.

Conveniences:

It sounds simple but I came to appreciate a subtle feature provided with the turn indicator. You can tap and release it and the signal is actuated for three flashes which is just enough for those gentle movements in lane changes or exiting the freeway.

Consumer Recommendation:

If available in your country, you may want to consider the V6 TDI version for better fuel and operating economy.

The Competition:

VW Touareg $37-58,000, Hummer H2 $52,000, Cadillac Escalade $54-70,000, Lincoln Aviator $41-44,000, GMC Yukon Denali $50-52,000, Audi Allroad quattro $40-47,000, Land Rover LR3 $38-49,000, Volvo XC90 $35-45,000, Acura MDX $37-44,000, BMW X5 $42-70,000, Infiniti FX $35-46,000, Porsche Cayenne $41-89,000, Lexus GX 470 $46,225, Mercedes M-Class $40-49,000.

Good News:

Well-appointed and well put together, nice turning signal feature for 3 flashes with a tap, several safety conscious features.

Bad News:

Lousy fuel economy, spendy but priced well in the company it keeps.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 240 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, permanent 4-wheel drive, ESP Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Anti lock braking system, Engine Braking Assist (EBA), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), inflatable spare tire with compressor, Dual front and side airbags with side curtain airbags, child rear anchors and door locks, climate control, power heated mirrors, rain sensors and heated washer nozzles, in-dash CD player, cruise control, 5 12-volt power outlets, adjustable roof rack, Aluminum and wood interior, adjustable steering column, leather wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry, auto headlights with daytime running lights, vehicle alarm and theft deterrent system, homelink, heated front seats, power glass sunroof, 17” alloy wheels, and 24 hour roadside assistance.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 21 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $37,140.

2005 Volkswagen GTI (556)

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2005 Volkswagen GTI (556)

Overview:

Ok, so after I drove the Jaguar XJR I knew I’d have to return to the real world. But thanks to VW I got to have a fun week driving the very agile Volkswagen GTI. I like speed so the Turbo was great and I even got to pass a lot more gas stations than with the Jag that got a whopping 21 mpg on a good day.

Contrasted to the Jag’s Supercharged engine the GTI employs a Turbocharger for boost. Well some folks will be annoyed with the head snapping when the turbo kicks in. Of course the annoyance would be worse f you didn’t have the extra boost. Have you noticed there are always tradeoffs in life? It’s a constant balancing act to give and take. And one of those trade offs is that when it comes to $3.00 plus a gallon of gas size, luxury, simplicity of this GTI allows you to stop less frequently to fill up the gas tank.

When you put transportation into perspective and you consider you can buy FOUR GTI’s for the price of admission for the Jag I tested last week, you have to ask yourself – “is the luxury really worth the difference in cost?”

The added fuel economy reminds me that I tend to drive more in a fuel-efficient car. You may say that I’m spending just as much therefore, but you know what? I also get to go more places, see more things and visit with more people when I’m not as concerned about spending so much on fuel. I guess that comes from remembering when I paid $.20 (that’s 20 cents) for a gallon of gas when I was a teen.

The contrast is obviously very great between the two cars I refer to here, so it’s easy to reflect on the relative value. Surely I got to and from my destinations in the same time with the GTI, and although the comfort level is noticeable, I don’t believe it is worth the $60,000 more. That is, unless you light your cigars with $100 bills.

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 1%, Germany 36%, Brazil 30% Engine – Hungary, Transmission –     Argentina.

Assembly – Curitiba, Brazil

Class:  – Compact

Cars:  –  Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, Phaeton, R-32 and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

This is a fun car to drive. It is fast because of the turbo that keeps you in the front of the race. Zippy. If you like rides at Magic Mountain or other favorite theme park, you’ll appreciate the easy snappy response of driving a Turbocharged car of this size.

Styling:

Clean lines and not hard to like because it is pretty conventional.

Fit and Finish:

Good. Most current V-Dubs have made components bulky to the feel and touch. Early models were much more flimsy and delicate. I’ve owned at least 3 VW’s and the 1963 Carmen Ghia we bought new was a neat car but they were extremely simple cars then. Those were the no frills days.

Cost:

Competitively priced especially considering the generous standard equipment package.

Conveniences:

Well appointed for the car and compared to the competition.

Consumer Recommendation:

All competitors in this class are very close. All are great transportation cars sensibly priced. The Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra top my list but this VW is a close third.

The Competition:

VW GTI $20-22,000, Subaru Impreza $18-32,000, Ford Mustang $19-31,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-21,000, Saturn ION $11-21,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Mazda RX-8 $25-32,000, Acura TSX $27-29,000, Hyundai Tiburon $16-20,000.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy, well-equipped, nice quality / durable components, and you will be pleased with the comfort of this little car.

Bad News:

Turbo can be annoying when it kicks in. Seats are difficult to adjust, in my opinion.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 180 hp turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, ABS disc brake system, electronic differential lock, power steering, torsion beam rear sport suspension, dual front and side airbags, child anchors, daytime running lights, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, power heated mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, front and rear intermittent wipers, adjustable sport seats with easy rear entry, split folding rear seats, remote fuel and hatch releases, radio with in dash CD and Cassette players, leather wrapped steering wheel and anti theft alarm system.

Gas Stats:

24 City and 31 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $19,510.

2005 Jaguar XJR (555)

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2005 Jaguar XJR (555)

Overview:

Oh – my – gawd! “Yeah it’s me and I’m in love again…” Can’t you just hear the melody and maybe even more of the lyrics come back to you. If this 2005 Jaguar XJR isn’t one of the sexiest cars on the planet, I’m not Italian. What did you say mom, my father was who? OK, so you tell me. Is this a sexy car or what?

Many will not agree that Ford has been a positive influence on the production of today’s Jaguars. Ok, so it was Norm, my friend who has owned a few of these lovely “Cats” who challenged my opinion. Norm sites his personal experience that he never had a problem with any of his Jags.

For my part I go with the experience brother John and I had in owning a foreign car repair shop for about 15 years. Jags were as bad as FIAT’s from Italy. Remember what F – I – A – T stands for. Fix It Again Tony! Well the Brits were as bad. BMW was also a mechanics dream. One other that tops the list is the Audi. These four car brands seemed most troublesome for our customers. It was good for the repair business but bad for the auto industry generally. That situation has improved greatly over the past couple of decades.

I feel there has been a big change in today’s Jag, thanks Ford, no matter what Norm says.

I drive a lot of nice cars but somehow this weeks ride inspired me to want to get out to the theatre to see Wagner (Vaaag-nerr) at the Hollywood bowl with friends. Richard, Carol, Laura and I found that we were more impressed with the car, the two buck Chuck and KFC than the music. But in the final analysis it’s the people we share with that are most important. The LA Philharmonic is wonderful, but it was not one of those inspiring performances in spite of the wonderful summer California evening in one of the most lovely of settings.

Handling & Performance:

Spectacular. Better than sex. You’ll look forward with childish enthusiasm to driving somewhere – anywhere. In fact you’ll make excuses why you should go some place. Not only will you ride in style, you’ll get to the theatre in a flash. This is a Supercharged smoother than snot fast piece of machinery. Hold me back!

But you can’t hold the Supercharger back. By its nature it provides an instant off the line power surge. You’ll remember the difference between Supercharging and Turbocharging is that Superchargers run off the engine by way of a belt and pulley like your alternator or air conditioning pump. The Turbocharger operates off of a turbine powered by the exhaust. So the Turbocharger gives a surge only after RPM’s get high enough to generate the force. That can be annoying.

Styling: 

Traditional and therefore identifiable Jaguar styling. Perhaps this is one of the most recognizable of luxury cars. And one of the reasons is the consistent design principle they have followed for many years. In a world of sharp lines and edges, this Jag has held to its unique rounded curves we’ve come to recognize. It is simply a very elegant design that makes you feel special too.

But I’ve got a couple of complaints. The sun visors in this Jag do not extend. To Jag and every other carmaker who make the visors too short – shame on you. The other bitch is the way they’ve designed the front seats. The sides of the seat bottom are too narrow and annoyingly uncomfortable.

Fit and Finish:

Norm says it isn’t as good as before. It’s a Foooooord. Sorry Norm I don’t buy it. And what’s more this is still built in Great Britain – I suspect by the same guys and gals who assembled Norm’s Jags when the company was totally British.

Cost:

Lots! You don’t get away cheap for all this luxury, performance and especially image that will set you back the average price of most houses in this country.  For everything else you can use your Visa card.

Conveniences:

Everything your little heart can imagine is at your car driving fingertips. Perhaps the most useful and memorable is the laser assisted smart Cruise Control. They refer to it as adaptive. Whatever you call it, it should be required standard equipment in every car that’s made.

Consumer Recommendation:

Wow – when you look at the company this Jag keeps it is very impressive and you wonder if it is out of class. I’ve driven all except this Maserati and no matter the cost this Jag is distinguished. The Phaeton is (was – it is discontinued) technically a Bentley but must overcome the fact it is built by Volkswagen. I don’t believe it ever can do that, even though it is at the top of my picks of this list.

The Competition: 

Jaguar XJ Series $61-90,000, Maserati Quattroporte $95,500, Infiniti Q45 $56,400, Audi A8 $67-117,000, Volvo S80 $36-49,000, VW Phaeton $67-96,000, Lexus LS 430 $56,225, Acura RL $49,100, Mercedes S-Class $65-169,000, BMW 7-Series $71-117,000.

Good News:

Classy, undeniably as smooth a ride as you’ll ever feel, faaaast, great smart cruise control.

Bad News:

Front seats are uncomfortable; sun visors are too short.

Standard Equipment:

4.2 liter 390 hp supercharged V8 engine, 6-speed auto trans, adaptive cruise control, air suspension, speed sensitive steering, power Brembo four piston disc brakes, front and side air bags and side curtain airbags, remote entry and security system, 16 way power driver seat, dynamic stability control, Alpine 320 watt audio system with 7-CD changer, heated front seats and steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, self dim power fold mirrors.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $76,330.

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

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