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 Chevrolet Malibu LS Maxx (554)

No comments
2005 Chevrolet Malibu LS Maxx (554)

Overview:
Ok, back to my past and a car I owned when the model was new. Mine was a 1967 Yellow with a Black top. Two door hardtop. It’s nice to see that 2005 finds the Chevrolet Malibu still on the scene with the new LS Maxx.

My neighbor friend Carol said she wanted her mom to buy a Malibu. Husband Richard has been a Chevy kind of cowboy and owned a Malibu in his younger days too. Well Carol’s mom ended up buying a Fooooooord. You can tell parents, but you can’t tell them much. 

I have had so much good fortune with the many Chevrolets I’ve owned since my very first car – a 1934 Chevrolet coupe with a rumble seat. Wow, $50 and I worked it off painting with my dad. Thanks dad. I can still feel the busted knuckles changing the gears in the transmission that I broke learning to shift. But for you who have owned classic cars that are original you are acutely aware there was a time when Syncro-mesh transmissions weren’t invented yet. By the way, “These” (2000 and beyond) are the good old days when it comes to cars. Today the interval for a tune up is 100,000 miles – back then you were lucky to get 100 miles before the engine needed attention. We’ve come a long way baby. GM probably had more to do with the growth in automotive technology than any other company in the world.

General Info:

Parts –

Assembly – Kansas City, Kansas USA

Class:  – Large

Cars: Astro, Avalanche, Aveo, Blazer, Cavalier, Cobalt, Colorado, Corvette, Equinox, Express,  Express Cargo Van, Impala, Malibu, Malibu Maxx, Monte Carlo, Silverado  1500,2500,3500 and Hybrid, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Trail Blazer, Uplander and Venture.

Do you think GM can squeeze in a few more models? Just kidding of course. Do you think too many models may be a part of the reason they are experiencing sales problems in the beginning of the 21st century.

Suggestion: Cut some of the models and do better on the remaining models. On the other hand I was disappointed when GM decided to dump the Oldsmobile line.

Handling & Performance:

This is a no nonsense car that does it all pretty well. It is powerful – 200 hp – and yet it does it while achieving 30 highway miles per gallon. Pretty good for a 5-seat sedan.

Styling:

Well, I like the styling and the research I did on consumers seems to agree. It looks like a lot more expensive sedan and finds itself classed with smaller, less expensive cars.

Fit and Finish:

Very good even when compared to the company it keeps.

Cost:

Well priced until you consider the Nissan Sentra and the Honda Civic which are priced less. This is real tough competition.

Conveniences:

The fold flat seats are a bit unusual for a family sedan, but they are a nice touch. Although it comes standard with a nice complement of features, you can fork out another $3,200 to add side air bags and head curtain side air bags, rear audio controls with headphones, 6-way power driver seat, “Remote Vehicle Starter system”, DVD entertainment system, XM Satellite radio with over 130 channels and AM/FM with 6-disc CD player to replace standard radio.

For those who live or travel to places with extreme weather conditions (cold or hot) the Remote starter system is pretty cool. From the comfort of your house you can start the car remotely so it will be nice and toasty or cooled when you’re ready to leave.

Consumer Recommendation:

Although this is a standout among the competition as a small looking but big and roomy sedan, I would look hard at the Honda Civic. Smaller but it will impress you for the money. I believe the Accord is a closer competitor than the Civic, however.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Malibu Maxx $21-25,000, Pontiac Grand Am $23-24,000, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Dodge Stratus $19-23,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-15,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, VW Jetta $18-24,000.

Good News:

Roomy family sedan, good fuel economy.

Bad News:

I didn’t sense any problems.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 200 hp V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, dual front air bags, 4-wheel ABS brakes w/traction control, theft deterrent immobilizer, auto headlights, battery rundown protection, power outside mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and locks, power steering with tilt and telescopic wheel, cruise control, stereo with CD player, power driver seat, fold flat passenger seat, power pedal adjustment and driver information system.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $21,465.

2005 Saab 9-2X Aero 5-Door Sedan (552)

No comments
2005 Saab 9-2X Aero 5-Door Sedan (552)

Overview:

This week finds us desperately seeking sanity in transportation cost. Ok, so we didn’t quite find it, but we came closer. Until we see pump prices so obnoxious we can’t stand it, we will simply pony up to the cost as necessary. Well, it isn’t necessary, and yes, there are alternatives.

As you probably know, Saab is now a GM company, and marriages such as this, I believe, are good for both the company and also good for the consumer. Those who like Swedish cars will be happy to see the innovations and improvements from that marriage and that are inevitable. It’s too soon to tell what changes GM will make but we’ll see it happen – count on it. Another example of this is the purchase of Jaguar by Ford. The Jag has never been a better car. Ford retained the styling but improved it mechanically. It is simply a better automobile. We’ll talk more about the Jag in the coming weeks because I’m testing one as I’m writing this.

The 9-2X sits on a WRX frame and it makes sense it would be assembled in Japan – and it is.

General Info:

Parts – Japan 100%

Assembly – Ota, Gunma, Japan

Class:  – Small station wagon

Cars:  – 9-2X, 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X

Handling & Performance:

I found it a little rough riding (reminiscent of the WRX – surprise, surprise). The turning radius was much longer than I expected for a small car.

Styling:

Saab has never been my favorite styling attempt, but you have to admit it is unique. It’s just a little too busy for me and when I tested the WRX I found it more adapted to the younger generation. It reminds me of those small modern rods racing in and out of traffic on the freeways. Zip zip zip. And the driver is this little person scrunched down below the window peering over the steering wheel racing another small but soup’d up bumper car. I think they’ve been playing too many video games.

Fit and Finish:

The Swedes have consistently done a good job over the years because they have been put together like custom cars. They are meticulous perfectionists and now with the Japanese building it, coupled with the business prowess of GM, this should make for an interesting future for the Saab.

Cost:

This is, like the WRX, a youthful design for those with more money in their car-buying budgets. But it’s only money and at the end of the day, you don’t have to sell your firstborn or mortgage your future to own one. $25-30,000 today is pretty commonplace for a mid-range quality automobile.

When you consider transportation options there are cars that cost a third the cost of this Saab and that puts commuting into perspective. However, practicality aside, and ego firmly in place you’ll find reasons why $30,000 is acceptable.

Conveniences:

Well equipped, but you’ll pay.

Consumer Recommendation:

The Swedes are known for building safety conscious cars, which hasn’t and likely won’t change with the ownership change. The addition of AWD is a decidedly positive change and being built in Japan will assure continued quality in assembly. I don’t see any substance to the concerns dealers had with the “thinly disguised Subaru” connection. Japanese built / American owned is a good thing in my opinion.

The Competition:

Saab 9-2X $23-28,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback $17-19,000, Volvo V50 $26-29,000, Subaru Impreza Wagon $18-26,000, VW Jetta Wagon $19-22,000, Lexus IS 300 SportCross $31,105, BMW 3-series Sport Wagon $31-33,000, Mazda3 $14-19,000, Mazda6 Sport Wagon $23-27,000, Audi A4 Avant $29-36,000, Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000.

Good News:

Quality custom history enhanced by anticipated volume increase with Subaru / GM influence, fair fuel economy, AWD traction is standard, good cargo area, fast fun to drive turbocharged power and well equipped.

Bad News:

Stiff ride, pricey, upscale Subaru and irritating acceleration lag from the turbocharger (Supercharger would eliminate that problem).

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged 227 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual trans, all wheel drive, 4-wheel sport tuned independent suspension, 4-wheel abs disc brakes, security system, dual front and head side air bags in front, climate control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, audio system with 6-indash CD player/ changer, rear wiper and defogger, dual power mirrors, rear roof spoiler, functional hood scoop.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,950.

 

2005 PT Cruiser Touring Convertible Turbo (550)

No comments
2005 PT Cruiser Touring Convertible Turbo (550)

Overview:
This week I took a vacation from the heavy work requiring a truck. This 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Convertible begs for a trip to the beach. And for me, who has owned several convertibles, I can vouch for how solid this one is. It was built AS a convertible so you won’t feel the twisting gyrations so common in convertibles. It was most noticeable to me in the 1967 Camaro and then again in the 1990 Camaro I owned and “Loved” by the way.

As to this PT Cruiser, you’ve gotta love this example of how America continues to lead the way in true creativity in making our love of the automobile easy even after the honeymoon was over. For over a hundred years after America gave birth to the best method of transportation of the 20th century we still embrace the relationship. Perhaps that has to do with how people collectively have contributed to the automobiles evolutionary growth. We all made the automobile what it is today. From the very beginning buyer’s have loved to tinker and that caused manufacturers to put consumer ideas into action on the drawing board and on through the production line. That made those back yard modifications and designs cost effective. This PT Cruiser is a perfect example of that marriage between the consumer and the auto industry.

Handling & Performance:

Wonderful. The Turbo makes it fast, and the ride is ultra smooth and comfortable. It takes the wrinkles out of the road. The steering is perfect and overall performance reflects its name. It is indeed a cruiser.

Styling:

It is apparent many like, as do I, the styling of this example of the best of “Retro”. But because of the design, the trunk is obnoxiously difficult to use. Ok, so I could live with it.

Just to prove Old Habits are hard to change, I must complain about the placement of the window controls. They are in the center of the dash and I still prefer them on the door, where they belong. My first thought was, “What’s this all about?” I seems to be an obvious effort to be different. But the car is already different, so why do such a dumb thing.

Another quickly noticeable flaw is the bad visibility. I don’t know how they could have made it better, but that’s what we pay them for, right? Of course, with the top down peripheral and rear view is totally unobstructed.

When they decided on the color combos, someone must have been humming the song  that goes, “Blue, blue, my world is blue, blue is my world, now I’m without yoooou”.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding. But I have to tell you, the high beams didn’t work but I don’t get excited about the small stuff because I don’t think it went any further than a bad fuse. “But it was assembled in Mexico”, you say. Ok, so that was my first thought too. VW Beetle and several other cars are also assembled in Mexico, so we can’t make that assumption.

Cost:

Better than I thought was possible. Chrysler has been smart in making this link to the past affordable to many.

Conveniences:

Very good.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re into Retro this is the cheapest “Rod” you could ever buy. This is a great example of a ready to go Rod that is not only classy and fun but also new and reliable. I’ll bet you have considered buying one of these if you are old enough for it to launch you back in time to the “Good old days” when these original designs graced our roads. And today, this is the best of the bunch of competition in terms of being original. Go for it.

Oh, by the way I consider the MINI Cooper a close second.

The Competition:

PT Cruiser $14-28,000, Pontiac Vibe $17-20,000, Ford Mustang $19-31,000, Subaru Forester $21-28,000, Chrysler Sebring $19-31,000, MINI Cooper $17-25,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $20-30,000, Toyota RAV4 $19-20,000, VW Beetle $17-25,000, VW Golf $16-20,000, Honda CR-V $20-25,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18-23,000, Toyota Matrix  $15-19,000 Honda Element $17-22,000.

Good News:

Wonderful handling, fast turbo, great retro design, decent mileage and great convertible top operation.

Bad News:

Poor visibility, poorly placed window controls and lousy trunk space.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4 cylinder Turbo generating 220 horsepower, 5-speed manual transmission, dual front and side air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, traction control, power rack and pinion steering, sport suspension with front stabilizer bar, rear window defroster, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power windows, power driver’s seat, stereo with cassette and CD players and 6 speakers, easy entry system with tip and slide seats, front and rear auxiliary 12 volt power outlets, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, power locks, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system / security alarm, convertible boot top cover, power convertible top, quad halogen headlights, power mirrors and fog lights.

Gas Stats:

21 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $27,830.

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

Copyright © 2005 – An Automotive Love Affair

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon 4-wheel drive Pick up (549)

No comments
2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon 4-wheel drive Pick up (549)

Overview:
This week I needed another pickup truck for the ranch, so I’m reviewing the results of the week with the 2005 Dodge Power Wagon with a Hemi Magnum V8. Not juice (V8) but it has plenty of that anyway. It’s a regular cab model and built for work.

My friend Lev is a high desert cowboy and hard work and hard working trucks impress guys like him. And yes they still exist outside of Hollywood movies like Lonesome Dove and Open Range.

Well Lev, I liked it a lot too because it was a great help. Off to Home Depot and Lowe’s for a load of brick and redi-mix cement. As the forklift lowered a pallet of used brick the bed went down like an elevator. Ground floor! Time to leave so I could return for a ton of cement. Boy, it sure did steer easy cruising down the highway. Lev was also impressed with the built in Winch with a half-inch metal cable and a “sky hook” that would pull a house. The remote control allows you to operate the winch from inside as well as outside the vehicle. It sure empowers you knowing that in addition to the 4-wheel drive you could pull yourself out of any other trouble off road. I could have used one on the Hummer H1 that I tested and managed to get stuck in the mud. It was an old Chevy Blazer with a “Winch” to the rescue that day to pull a $100,000 Hum Vee out of the mud. How embarrassing that was.

Anyway, this Power Wagon was also a big help picking up downed fencing around the ranch, but I made a slight modification to this beauty by mistake. Loading boards was going great right up till the load went high enough to reach the rear window. You got it! I’m sure you can picture that last board sliding smoothly as I watched it shatter the rear window into a million pieces. My fault, not the trucks. But it did lead me to wonder if there weren’t a way to provide for such operator stupidity.

Handling & Performance:   

Actually pretty wonderful. Men can take hard work a lot easier and even enjoy it when they have a powerful helpmate like this truck.  

Styling:  

No one does it better than Dodge. They just have that look of capable, strong, powerful and better looking than it should be. That massive grill makes the statement complete.  

Fit and Finish:  

Very good and once again better than a truck needs to be. For a real ranch application they could also lose the rug. It doesn’t take long to destroy it with normal work use.  

Cost:

A lot but it’s a lot of truck too.

Conveniences:  

I really liked the winch, but I would have liked to have 110 Power outlets in this Power Wagon. 

Consumer Recommendation:  

GM, Chrysler and Ford have a long history of making the toughest trucks. You might want to take a look at Toyota and Nissan as well.

The Competition:  

Dodge Power Wagon $25-40,000, Ford F250 $23-37,000, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD $24-41,000.   

Good News:

Power and strength to haul a real load.

Bad News:  

Gas guzzler (35 gal. Std. Equip fuel tank says it all), under rail bed liner looks good but is not as functional as one that covers the rear rail paint.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter Hemi Magnum V8 Engine, 5-speed automatic trans, leather trimmed 40/20/40 bench seat, power drivers seat, airbags with passenger On/Off switch, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, manual shift on the fly 4-wheel drive transfer case, power steering, stabilizer bar, 35 gallon fuel tank, intermittent wipers, trailer tow wiring 4 pin connector, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with CD player, cab back storage bin, heated front seats. Optional Equipment: leather wrapped steering wheel, center seat cushion storage, dual zone air controls, deluxe power driver seat, Tru Lok front and rear differentials, aluminum wheels, front electric winch, GVW 8510 lbs rated, clearance lights, tow hooks, fog lights, skid plate shield on transfer case and fuel tank, auto dim rearview mirror, security alarm and theft deterrent system, side air bags, in-dash 6-disc CD changer with 4 additional speakers, rear window defroster, GPS navigation system and under rail bed liner.

Gas Stats:

 City and  Highway MPG

Pricing:   

MSRP $29,750, with options $43,260

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

2005 Suzuki Reno EX (548)

No comments
2005 Suzuki Reno EX (548)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2005 Suzuki Reno EX compact 5-seat sedan. This is a little big car in that it will seat 5 but it does feel small. But so did the C320, and for the money this is a great commuter or starter car for a young family on a tight budget. It is likely the best of the bunch for the money. See my top three picks below.

It is a sign of the times to see this Japanese carmaker opting to have this Reno assembled in Korea. Now even the Japanese are seeking less expensive labor to get their product to market at a profit. It is a definite sign they have achieved a standard of living second to none. Meaning their labor force has become too expensive for production line level of expertise. As I mentioned last time, such labor in China for example is 60-90 cents per hour. Korea must be competing and seeking to put their people to work also. It is no wonder the world is knocking at the door of developing country labor pools. The industrial revolution has now touched all parts of the globe. But it did take a century for others in the world to have the opportunity to share in the good life.

Handling & Performance:

Zips around like a bumper car. Just kidding. This is a real car and I felt right at home on the freeways as well. Ok, so it is a little intimidating when up against the big road hogs so prevalent today. Bigger isn’t better simply by virtue of size. OK, so there are some exceptions we won’t go into.

Styling:

Commuter cookie cutter might characterize the look, but that’s because it has such clean lines and similar to the more stylish Mercedes Benz C320 Coupe for twice the money.

Fit and Finish:

Quite good especially for the money.

Cost:

Excellent pricing. There is absolutely no excuse not to own a new car if ones ego can be left behind. Consider a young married couple that goes out to buy that Mercedes when they could have two – count them – two brand spanking new Reno’s. Go figure.

Conveniences:

Outstanding considering what the car sells for. Bottom line, extras (especially electronics) are not that much in today’s world.

Consumer Recommendation:

This Reno makes a great statement that you can not only afford a new car, you can have it with most all the features of cars at twice the money. I can’t imagine why ABS is an option, but for the $500 it’s worth the price for the added safety it affords.

My picks in this field is Toyota Corolla to Win, Nissan Sentra to Place and the Suzuki Reno to Show – that is if I were a betting man.

The Competition: 

Suzuki Reno $13-17,000, Ford Focus $13-18,000, Pontiac Vibe $17-20,000, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Toyota Matrix $15-19,000, Dodge Neon $14-21,000, Subaru Impreza $18-32,000, Scion xA $12,530, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Hyundai Accent $10-11,000, Saturn ION $11-21,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, Volkswagen Golf $16-20,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-35,000, Kia Rio $10,000 and Mazda 3 $14-19,000.

Good News: 

Decent fuel economy, great pricing and a very comfortable commuter.

Bad News:

Small, lightweight may concern many with all those big SUV’s on the road to contend with.

Standard Equipment: 

2.0 liter 126 hp 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual trans, power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, dual front and side airbags, cruise control, audio system with CD / MP3, tilt steering wheel with remote audio controls, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, 60/40 split folding rear seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, power tilt / slide sunroof. Options: ABS brakes.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $15,349.

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

2005 Isuzu Ascender SUV (547)

No comments
2005 Isuzu Ascender SUV (547)

Overview:

This week we’re taking a look at the 2005 Isuzu Ascender 5 passenger SUV. News flash: this is just another player in this once popular form of transportation before skyrocketing fuel prices around the globe forced buyers to consider alternatives. Sound like a future statement in the later part of the 21st Century. Nope – it is here now and I’m hearing more and more comments from readers that they are not in the market for gas burners that consume this much fuel. To some, a doubling of prices of gas at the pump this past year is not a deterrent to travel by highway in their SUV. Yes, some will have the dough to burn while others will find alternative means of transportation. Commuters will car pool, take the Metro Rail or purchase a car that gets twice the mileage. Pretty simple, eh?

It is certain you will have to take a loss when you dump that gas hog. So don’t tarry. Move quickly and get out cheap ahead of the rush. I don’t want to cause a run on the bank, so to speak, or encourage an exodus to a promised land of milk and cars that run on it. But I don’t need to. Even though there aren’t enough people who read my column to do that anyway, this is the obvious mood of the consumer. I think most people are smart and are noticing the signposts along the way and will make the move sooner or later. I encourage sooner.

However, if you don’t care about the cost of running your car, truck or RV, join me in considering this Isuzu Ascender. The model I tested is the five passenger, but you can buy a seven passenger if you believe kids are cheaper by the dozen. The Brady Bunch would have to leave one person home, or tie them to the roof rack.

Handling & Performance:

Very good vibes. Surely up to challenging those companies who were first on the SUV scene.

Styling: 

Styling is consistent with the look we’ve come to love. The interior is better than most and Japanese quality makes the design jump out at you. While Isuzu hasn’t enjoyed as much popularity as Toyota and Nissan this is a thoughtful if not cookie cutter clone that is less expensive.

Fit and Finish:

Assembly is typical Japanese in spite of the fact it was put together here in the US. The straw boss must still be Japanese with a Samurai Sword to cut the dead weight.

Cost:

It is cost competitive but still more than it should be. You know you are getting old when prices like this amaze you.

Conveniences:

Not bad. But the price and poor fuel economy make all the rest less important in my buying decision.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you MUST own an SUV, you will want to test-drive this one for a comparison with more expensive versions. And if you see the world demand of oil making an SUV too expensive to operate, change your perception of what you really need.

The Competition: 

Isuzu Ascender $26-37,000, Mercury Mountaineer $30-39,000, Ford Explorer $27-38,000, GMC Envoy $29-40,000, Buick Rainier $34-36,000, Dodge Durango $27-36,000, Chevrolet TrailBlazer $26-33,000, Toyota 4Runner $28-38,000, Honda Pilot $28-34,000, Mitsubishi Endeavor $26-33,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26-34,000, Nissan Pathfinder $25-35,000, Lexus GX 470 $46,225.

Good News: 

Nice styling and decently priced.

Bad News:

Typical poor fuel economy.

Standard Equipment: 

4.2 liter 6 cylinder 275 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, anti-theft immobilizer, on demand 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power steering, stainless exhaust, dual front air bags, fog lights, rear child door locks, variable wipers and rear wiper washer / wiper, climate control, power windows and locks, 2nd row split and fold seat, tilt steering column, center console, wood grain trim, platform trailer hitch and 17 inch alloy wheels.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 20 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $27,959.

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

2005 Suzuki Verona EX TC (544)

No comments
2005 Suzuki Verona EX TC (544)

Overview:

Well we’re continuing with another fuel-efficient (relatively fuel efficient) 2005 Suzuki Verona EX TC. If this car doesn’t excite you then I’m a little funny… know what I mean. But I fall in love too easily so maybe it’s just me. I like nice looking, fun to drive, enjoy going places with, low maintenance and not to spend-ee. Ok that also fits the description of this car as well. And before you think I’m a cheap date, we need to talk more, perhaps over dinner at Victoria Station. For readers in France or elsewhere, that is a nice restaurant in the high desert of California.

I love the name. I’m Italian and Verona is in Italy. Ok, so it’s a flimsy reason for liking the name, but I bet horses on their names too. It’s as good a handicap method as other systems. But then when you can count the times you’ve been to the track on two hands and one foot, that’s as good a handicapping system I could come up with.

Another reason I like this car is that it is one answer to BMW on my budget. Sweet. I would have to pay twice that for the Beeeeemer. Don’t get me wrong, I’m really not cheap, but rather I have other things I’d rather spend my money on. I’ve enjoyed the Porsche, Lamborghini and Mercedes Benz cars I’ve owned, but now I find travel and good friends more important than dumping lots of money into cars like I used to. Come to think of it good friends have always been more important. I’m reminded of the plaque hanging on my Swedish “second mom’s” kitchen wall that … “Vee Get toooo soon old’t undt tooo late schmart”. I loved that lady.

Handling & Performance:

Wonderful. This really was a pleasure to drive and for the money you’ll be blown away by how well it handles and performs. You’ve gotta wonder why 400 horsepower is so important. And zero to sixty in 4.5 seconds will cost you about $1.50 with gas prices as they are.

Styling: 

You be the judge. If you like the styling of BMW and Honda Accord you’ll be impressed by this Verona. And this is a full five-seat sedan.

Fit and Finish: 

Very nice and exceptional for the money.

Cost:

 … and the money folks – it is also exceptionally competitive. Suzuki is on a quest to be a more serious player and $20,000 for a great family sedan is a great place to start.

Conveniences:   

Really great array of things you’d expect to pay a lot more for and only find on more expensive cars. Climate control and moon roof to start with and leather seating as a kicker.

Consumer Recommendation:  

The Verona is a must see. This is a stand out car this year.

The Competition:  

Suzuki Verona $17-20,000, Chrysler 300 $23-39,000, Nissan Altima $17-29,000, Mercury Montego $24-29,000, Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Ford 500 $22-28,000, Chevrolet Malibu $19-24,000, Buick LaCrosse $23-28,000, VW Jetta $18-24,000, Honda Accord $16-29,000, Saturn L300 $21,370, Mitsubishi Galant $19-26,000, Toyota Camry $18-26,000, Mazda 6 $19-27,000.

Good News:

Priced very well, lots of standard equipment, great styling and decent fuel economy.

Bad News:

Bad news, are you kidding, what more do you want. Ok, so traction control is optional and Stability control is not available. But com-on with everything else how can anyone complain?  And for my friend Jonathan B – I don’t only say good things about the cars I review. For those who have read my reviews over the past 11 plus years know I’m not always so kind. And the manufacturers have never once questioned what I say about their cars.

Standard Equipment: 

2.5 liter inline 6-cylinder 155 hp engine (zero maintenance timing chain), 4-speed automatic trans, speed sensitive power steering, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, climate control, leather seating and door trim, 8-way driver power seat, cruise control, heated front seats, 60/40 folding split rear seats, audio system with cassette and CD players, tilt steering wheel with remote audio controls, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Alloy wheels, fog lights, remote keyless entry, remote power trunk release, power widows and locks, power / heated mirrors, power tilt / slide moon roof and tire pressure monitoring system.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:
MSRP $20,449.

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

2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon EX (543)

No comments
2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon EX (543)

Overview:

”Here I go again, I hear the trumpets blow again…” as the lyrics go in an old time tune … “taking a chance on love”. So I’m back on the road again with another fuel-efficient transportation car. The 2005 Suzuki Forenza is just that and I really enjoyed passing a few more gas stations. This wagon gives just that little more cargo area than the sedan has; yet it still retains that sedan look. Remember when a Station Wagon was massive and bulky in appearance?

Also in our trip down memory lane, remember the Ad campaign for Avis Rent-a-car that went … “We’re number 2, we try harder”. Well that applies here. This Korean assembled, Japanese car is a product of “We try Harder” philosophy. You’re gonna like what you get in this family car. I guarantee it.

Handling & Performance:

It only has 126 horsepower but it will surprise you that it isn’t more. Lev and Richard took me off road to cut some firewood above Lake Hughes in Southern California and it made me proud how far I got before we had to move the chain saws from the cargo area to the 4-wheel drive truck for the remainder of the journey up the hill. Truly I could have made it, but dodging all those rocks and boulders was not worth the effort. Highway driving was just great however. It was smooth and comfortable for the 100 miles per day I drive.

Styling:

Nice lines and while it is a station wagon it is sharply formed. Kind-a like a scaled down SUV rather than the traditional station wagon of yesteryear designs. I liked driving this one, and my golf clubs fit nicely, thanks.

Fit and Finish:

Just fine Vern… I think the Koreans like other emerging industrial nations pay more attention to detail. Nice job guys.

Cost:

Very good for all you get. I can’t imagine why people futz around repairing their old jalopy when they can have a brand spanking new car for this kind of money.

Conveniences:

Fantastically appointed features for the money.

Consumer Recommendation:

Surely this is a must see. Get in on the ground floor. Cost to produce is lower than other competitors and that allows you to get the best bang for the buck. Perhaps the buck should stop here!

The Competition:

Suzuki Forenza $14-17,000, Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000, Kia Rio Cinco $11,500, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, VW Jetta Wagon $19-22,000, Scion xA $12,530, Subaru Impreza Wagon $18-24,000, Chevrolet Malibu Maxx $21-25,000, Toyota Matrix $15-19,000, Pontiac Vibe $17-20,000.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy, roomy, good cargo area, comfy, nice ride, well appointed and well priced.

Bad News:

Short on the horses.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter inline 4-cylinder 126 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, speed sensitive power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, dual airbags front and side, cruise control, audio system with cassette and CD player and 8 speakers, tilt steering wheel with remote audio controls, leather seating, door trim steering wheel and shift knob, 60/40 split folding rear seats, alloy wheels, fog lights, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, power tilt and slide sunroof. 100,000 mile 7 year transferable power train limited warranty24/7 roadside assistance, warranty repair courtesy vehicle program.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $17,449.

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

2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Laramie Quad Cab (541)

No comments
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Laramie Quad Cab (541)

Overview:
Ok folks, I gotta tell you this series on pickup trucks has been a lot of fun and this 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Laramie was a great workhorse around the old rancho.

The good news about doing a series is that you get to see all of the competition in a short period of time. But things can begin to run together as you try to differentiate between each. I know you’re going to have to test drive the models you lean toward, so be sure to take good notes, because there will be little that separates them.

The Dodge 1500 test vehicle I drove was equipped with a Navigational system and in my opinion it is so small as to make it unusable. I was frustrated by it because I refused to spend the time to set it before I hit the road. Perhaps this is one of those little things that would separate me from buying that option. I would suggest the manufacturers consider using a Nav system that can be set by the passenger while the car is in motion. As to the size, a younger pair of eyes may be able to tolerate the small screen.

Handling & Performance:
Heavier suspension on this 1500, versus the Dakota, makes the ride a little rougher without a load. But it is faster, sits higher but also sucks up more gas by 20% with a V8 versus the V6. I like the power but I don’t like filling up so often.

Styling: 

No question all Dodge models are related. As siblings they are stair stepped big, bigger, biggest.

Fit and Finish:

You won’t find a great deal of difference in how well they fit together, and as mentioned before, trucks aren’t expected to be so well appointed anyway.

Cost:

Dodge tends to be at the upper end of the cost curve of the competition.

Consumer Recommendation:

There isn’t all that many to test-drive in this price range and class. It is in the middle of size and ability. You should consider your need for 4-wheel drive. If there isn’t an obvious need for the Nav system you’ll save money here. With gas prices escalating, you may be able to sacrifice tire-burning power for better gas performance.

The Competition:

Dodge Ram 1500 $20-50,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $18-42,000, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 $18-39,000, Ford F150 $20-36,000, Toyota Tundra $16-33,000, Nissan Titan $23-36,000.

Good News:

Powerful options for the performance needy buyer.

Bad News:

Pricey, and with the Magnum fuel economy is even worse.

Standard Equipment:

4.7 liter 235 hp V8 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, manual shift on the fly transfer case, power st4eering, maintenance free battery, tow wiring harness with 4-pin connector, 35 gallon fuel tank, air conditioning, tilt column, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with CD player 40/20/40 bench seat, rear folding seat with under seat storage.

Options: Laramie package – power front seats, visor lighted vanity mirrors, dome light and under hood light. All season tires, leather, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power pedals, fog lights, stereo with in dash 6-disc CD player with 7 speakers, tow upgrade with 750 amp battery, class IV hitch with 7 pin wiring harness, heated front seats, full time shift on the fly transfer case, anti-spin differential, 5.7 liter Hemi Magnum V8 engine, fold away power trailer tow mirrors, GPS navigation upgrade with stereo.

Gas Stats:

13 City and 17 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $30,390/ with options $39,625.

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

2005 Dodge Dakota Club Cab Laramie (540)

No comments
2005 Dodge Dakota Club Cab Laramie (540)

Overview:
Only a few more to the end of this series on pickup trucks. This is the 2005 Dodge Dakota Club Cab Laramie. I tried to schedule a Mazda truck but they don’t have one in the press fleet. But beside that this series has or will cover nearly every pickup truck sold.

The Laramie is the baby of the Dodge line and seems tiny by comparison with the big Rams. It’s an ok size and rides better than the heavier duty versions. You notice it mostly on the freeways where the heavier suspensions give a more marked “Thump-thump-thump” in rhythm with the cement surfaces. Don’t ya just love blacktop by comparison?!

Seating is ok in front but the jump seats in the back is only good in a pinch or for golf clubs and small people.

Handling & Performance:

The standard 3.7 liter engine is a 210 hp V6 and it seems a little underpowered. The available 4.7 liter magnum V8 is a better idea and will only set you back another $785.

Styling: 

Clean lines and a Ram tough front end and grill.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

At the higher end of the competition. Some folks simply see Dodge as a tougher truck. As I mentioned I haven’t tested the Mazda but the decision on which to buy would literally be a toss up for me. I love ‘em all.

Conveniences:

I don’t know about you but I get accustomed to all the gadgets and find it hard to do without many of them. But when it comes to paying for those unnecessary items I find basics is just fine. I do think the sensors on the rear bumper are great. Those I think I’d opt to pay for, especially on a truck or large SUV.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you don’t need a big truck this is a great size. Easier to maneuver around town and park which is a considerable issue especially if mom will also be driving it. The Ram 1500 and 2500 are much more difficult to park. I also would look seriously at those with 4-door options – Tacoma, Frontier, Canyon and Colorado.

The Competition:

Dodge Dakota $20-29,000, GMC Canyon $15-28,000, Chevrolet Colorado $15-29,000, Ford Ranger $14-26,000, Mazda Truck $15-26,000, Toyota Tacoma $13-25,000, Nissan Frontier $16-27,000.

Good News:

Good size, comfortable ride.

Bad News:

Fuel economy is poor, annoying seat belt bell.

Standard Equipment:

3.7 liter V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 2-wheel rear drive, dual air bags with passenger on/off switch, 6-way power driver seat, front disc and rear drum ABS power brakes, 600 amp maintenance free battery with run down protection, power steering and heavy duty suspension, air conditioning, power windows and locks, leather wrapped wheel with audio controls and tilt column, cruise control, stereo with in dash 6-disc CP/MP3 player, 40/20/40 split bench seat, dual folding rear seats, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system with security alarm, overhead console, 12 volt outlet, tinted gleass, power mirrors, auto headlights and fog lights. Options on test vehicle: leather heated front  bucket seats, trailer tow group including HD engine and trans cooling, fold away mirrors, battery upgrade to 750 amp, side air bags, anti-spin differential, 4.7 liter magnum V8 engine, sliding rear window, and under rail box bedliner.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 20 Highway MPG

Pricing: 

MSRP $24,339 / with options $29,574.

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

First676869707172737475Last

Recent Comments by Autolove

    No comments by Autolove yet.

English EN Spanish ES