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

2005 Nissan Titan 4X4 Crew Cab (539)

17-03-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

There are only a few pickup trucks left in my series but I can’t get this 2005 Nissan Titan 4X4 SE Crew Cab out of my mind as being one of the best. What a cool truck. I particularly liked the great visibility and unique mirror system that gives added rear view and that translates into safety.

It boasts the largest interior of any 1/2 –Ton pickup on the market. I like this size a lot. I’ve found little need to use the extra load capability of the Dodge Ram 3500 I own. And the large crew cab is a big advantage over extended cab configurations like my Ram.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Canton, OH USA

Class: – Standard Pickup

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

Handling & Performance:

Ease of handling is noticeably better and the ride is smoother than most trucks I tested. It is fast but that means it will suck up the gas and you’ll get tired of refilling that 28 gallon fuel tank.

Styling:

Unique and identifiable. It seems like all trucks have made a point of designing in a specific look for instant identifiability. As you know, I have a keen sense of the obvious, and as I watch the TV commercials it is apparent they want to convey toughness of their product and have done a great job doing just that.

Fit and Finish:

This Nissan is as good as it gets when it comes to being put together well. But on balance, all trucks are better than they have to be. After all, it is a truck and we don’t expect seams to be perfect, for example.

Cost:

Wonderful pricing … for the manufacturers, that is! They make more money on their truck lines than anything else in the fleet, generally. But the serviceability of the truck class can’t be understated and since demand is so great, the prices follow by being higher.

Conveniences:

Very nice standard package, but the options give this a one-two punch, for the money.

Consumer Recommendation:

Unquestionably this is my first choice in Pickup trucks. Drive it and see if you agree it is a standout in the field.

The Competition:

Nissan Titan $23-35,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $18-42,000, Chevrolet Silverdo 1500 $18-40,000, Ford F150 $20-36,000, Toyota Tundra $16-33,000, Dodge Ram 1500 $20-50,000.

Good News:

Japanese reliability confirmed by reputation over the years since they began to compete in the early 1960s.

Bad News:

None that comes to mind except gas is $3.00 a gallon and rising.

Standard Equipment:

5.6 liter 305 hp V8 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, shift of the fly parttime 4-WD with electronic control, 4-wheel limited slip differential, solid rear axle with multi-leaf spring suspension, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, chrome front and rear bumper with step pad, chrome grille and door handles, dual chrome power heated mirrors, bed side and tailgate caps, locking tailgate, cargo light, bed rope hooks, tow hooks in front, air conditioning, audio system with 8 speakers and 6-disc in dash CD changer, power windows and locks, power sliding back glass, remote keyless entry with remote windows down, cruise control with leather wrapped steering wheel with controls and tilt column, captains chairs, 60/40 rear fold up bench seat, overhead console, dual air bags, anchors and tethers for children, and security / immobilizer system.

Options: Add $8,110. SE Popular package Fosgate 350 watt audio w/ subwoffer, steering wheel audio controls, 8-way power driver seat, power adjust pedals, auto dim rear view mirror, Offroad package with elect locking rear differential, fog lamps, trgged trail tires, special shocks, skid plates for radiator, oil pan and transfer case, side air bag package with driver and passenger side bags, roof mounted side impact rollover curtain supplement air bags, big tow package for increased towing , Class IV hitch with 7-pin wiring harness, extendable tow mirrors, heavy duty battery, trans temp gauge, DVD mobile theatre system – 7” color monitor with wireless headphones, SE Utility bed package: Ulti-track channel system for tiedown, factory applied spray on bedliner, drivers side lockbox, tailgate area illumination with 12 Volt DC outlet, XM Satellite radio and sliding bed extender.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 18 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $30,650 – and $38,760 with options noted.

2005 Dodge RAM 2500 SLT Diesel Regular Cab. (538)

10-03-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
We’re closing in on the end of a series on pickup trucks. This is the 2005 Dodge RAM 2500 SLT Cummins Turbo Diesel. I suspect the only thing not to like about this truck is the lousy diesel fuel prices. Remember when diesel fuel was cheaper than any other fuel. Well if there was a reason for it being cheaper back then circumstances must have changed. Do you think it’s because there isn’t enough consumption to keep the price down? Noooo, that couldn’t be the reason because there were even fewer diesel cars back when. Sure would be nice to hear from the oil companies on the reason why diesel is so outrageously high.

Ok, so I gotta complain about the Regular Cab thing. I continue to wonder why anyone would want one. Extended cab or Crew Cab, Double Cab and all the other designations are the cats meow in providing both truck and passenger transportation. The only issue with the four door is the loss of cargo area or with the option for regular cargo bed the length makes it a bit more difficult to maneuver. But you’ll get used to it, just as you adjust to a Dual rear wheel configuration in time. That is after you crush the rear fenders a few times. The extra size will seem worth while after you struggle to get a set of golf clubs in behind the seat, for example.

Handling & Performance:

The first thing I noticed when I got in and took off was the super sensitive steering. I mean this is nothing like you’ve ever experienced before. Scary. The diesel is super quiet and faster than a diesel is expected to be even for a 5.9 liter engine.

Styling:

Tough, rugged and manly. These guys know what other guys like in appearance. Only one request as noted with other truck reviews – design in more fun goodies for the working man.

Fit and Finish:

As per usual, today’s trucks are more luxurious than cars were even 20 years ago.

Cost:

As I mentioned before, all trucks are over priced. But there is an exception here because of the Cummins Turbo Diesel. They don’t get broken in for a couple of hundred thousand miles. You can hand it down to your kids, or someone in the crew and it will be serviceable for a long time. My Ram 3500 with a Cummins Diesel has 250,000 miles and it is still running strong.

Conveniences:

Once again I have to say a truck should have neat utility things like 110 outlets for running equipment in remote areas, great tie down apparatus and cargo lighting to name just a few.

Consumer Recommendation:

You may want to seriously consider a diesel. You won’t believe it’s a diesel. Try pulling up to a drive up window at a fast food place in an older diesel and they will ask you to turn the engine off so they can hear your order. Not with this one. It is nearly as quiet as a gas engine.

The Competition:

Dodge Ram 2500 $25-39,000, GMC Sierra 2500 $24-40,000, Chevrolet Silverdo 2500 HD $24-41,000, Ford F250 Super Duty $23-37,000.

Good News:

Quality truck, Cummins diesel power, great torque and a rather comfortable ride.

Bad News:

Poor fuel economy, over sensitive steering, not enough cargo area inside the cab and only seats up to three.

Standard Equipment:

5.9 liter Cummins Turbo Diesel with 610 foot lbs of torque, 4-speed auto trans and anti-spin differential axle, 2-wheel rear drive, dual air bags with passenger on/off switch, power driver seat, front center seat cushion storage, trailer tow class IV hitch receiver with 7 pin wiring, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering column, power windows and locks with remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with CD player and GPS navigation system, storage area tray behind seats, heated power mirrors, cargo lamp and bed liner.

Gas Stats:

City and Highway MPG – Not available.

Pricing:

MSRP $36,805.

2005 Chevrolet SSR Super Sport Roadster (537)

05-03-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I tested the 2005 Chevrolet SSR Super Sport Roadster. Now this is Retro! As I mentioned this is a series on pickup trucks and technically this is a pickup.

If you are into hauling fur coats or other soft things it won’t scratch the beautiful fine polished wood runners in a bed of plush carpet. Ok, so it’s a hot rod, retro back to the mid 1940s through early 1950s and reminds me of my 1946 Chevy half-ton pickup.

It is therefore near and dear to my heart because it made delivering the Los Angeles Times to 420 homes in the Monterey Hills above South Pasadena, CA every morning in my teen years a joy. Old timers would tell me the torque of that 6-cylinder would pull a house. I never tried it, but it had no trouble in the hills. Anyway, this SSR brought back fond memories of rising early, tying papers and tossing them to a thankful bunch of folks. They must have been thankful, because I never had a complain, even when the paper I launched from my little red truck became a missile that found its way through a window or milk bottle on the porch. Wow, that dates me, eh? Ok, so that was a long time ago when Ador Farms still delivered bottled milk in the late 1950s.

I can’t remember now what the mileage was on that straight 6 engine, but I’m sure someone out there will tell me. My guess is that it was about 15 mpg. After I rebuilt it, it probably did worse. Remember those older cars. That was when you could actually turn a screw to change the idle or fuel mixture on the carburetor. Today gas is metered out to the cylinders with fuel injectors and carburetors are archaic. But for all its simplicity the old technology worked nearly as well as today’s modern electronic ignition and fuel injection. Perhaps we shouldn’t expect gigantic leaps in mileage numbers in only 60 years. Or should we? Shouldn’t consumers demand more from a society who put a man on the moon in 8 years. Thanks JFK.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – United States

Class: – Pickup

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

Handling & Performance:

A dream to drive. Comfy and cozy and faaaast as 390 horses push this pickup down the highway.

Styling:

Retro says a lot and of course a picture is worth a 1,000 words. And one would never guess you’d buy a pickup truck that magically becomes a convertible at the touch of one button. And the designers have done a marvelous job is moving from the old look to a modern, sleek rendition of the past. They have struck a chord or two with lots of people as I learned from those who stopped me to talk about the truck that transforms the past to the future. At Home Depot in Palmdale, a retro couple visited and reminisced and I felt good about this one of a kind bold statement from Chevrolet. Thanks GM.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Big price tag. But then, if you rebuilt a ’46 to ’53 Chevy pickup, it would cost more. And even if you could design in a convertible hard top the cost would be outrageous. Chevy has done it all for you and far cheaper than you could ever do it. So if that is true, $50,000 would be a bargain. I’ll take two.

Conveniences:

Very nice. And the convertible top is a touch of genius.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you want “Different” and can afford fifty grand for a Sunday driver I recommend this radical retro truck. It takes you back in time and then launches you into the future as you watch the hard top magically disappear.

The Competition:

There are no competitors in my opinion. This is a unique remake of the 1940s and 1950s Chevrolet pick up trucks. You’d have to go to a Custom Rod show to see the likes of this truck. It is alone in the production market. I suspect when I saw it as a concept vehicle in 2000 I didn’t expect it would ever become a production vehicle. Thanks to Chevy huevos it has. Bravvvv-O!

Good News:

It’s a magical trip down memory lane for the older, and simply a lovely work of art to all who love an adventure in driving something different. It is fast and very fun to drive. The plush bed is elegantly covered in a hard tonneau cover that is flawless. This is one of the special vehicles that inspire an automotive love affair.

Bad News:

A little pricey and hard to justify if it is a truck you need, low fuel economy.

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter 390 hp V8 engine, 4-speed auto trans, limited slip differential, independent front suspension, 16:1 power steering, stabilizer bars, tuned shocks, trailer provisions, 19” front and 20” rear aluminum wheels, dual air bags with off switch for passenger, side air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, remote keyless entry with theft deterrent system, retractable hardtop, power heated mirrors, removable hard cargo cover, stereo with CD/MP3 player, air conditioning, power locks for doors and cargo cover, power windows, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, leather seating and 6 way driver and 2 way passenger power seats. Options: the version I drove upgraded the MSRP by $4,460 for memory seats, homelink, heated seats, in-dash 6 CD Bose sound system, cargo area trim with wood, 6-speed manual transmission (I recommend this), auxiliary gauge package, special paint (beautiful aqua blur metallic) and GVW rating at 6,050 lbs.

Gas Stats:

13 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $42,430.

2005 Chevrolet Cobalt 4-door Sedan (536)

24-02-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
Ok, back to reality and responsibility after a series on pickup trucks. This 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt 4-door sedan isn’t the first in a series of economical cars to contrast with the gas guzzling trucks I just completed, but I will touch on a lot of fuel-efficient vehicles because the inevitable has happened.

Gas is pushing $3.00 per gallon and that ain’t good. Government says they will start exploring for new domestic fields. Helllllllooo, are they stupid or what? Is this gas shortage a surprise to these yokels or what? What do we pay our elected officials such high salaries for? Boy I don’t want to get my blood boiling but this is ridiculous. In fact it has been said we have 30 years of fuel in the Alaska reserve. I think it’s time George Bush et al, start the flow going to the pumps. By the time we start another war and need the oil we will have developed another energy source, like hydrogen or solar power. In any case it will be a good incentive to do JUST THAT. If we can put a man on the moon…

In the meantime, until you write your congressman about freeing up some of the national oil reserves, the only immediate way to beat the cost to you personally is to downsize the cars you drive. Few, around the country, can take Metro rails and most of those folks are in New – York – City. The rest of the country has become dependent on personal transportation and that is never truer than in California.

In the 1940’s special interests, namely the oil and rubber companies, pushed mass transit right out of California because it was more profitable for them to encourage personal autos for transportation. Now cities encourage spending billions to rebuild mass transit because all of the freeways in California and other major metropolitan cities have developed into giant parking lots. What a mess Charlie Brown.

I have discussed fuel alternatives with engineers and you may have read about the European diesel approach to achieving better fuel economy. We discussed how American Car makers are opposed to that in principal. In fact Forbes Magazine recently ran a cover story about how GM is gambling big time on Hydrogen powered vehicles. I believe that will change, but the jury is still out. These guys could be smarter than I give them credit for.

In the meantime buying more fuel-efficient vehicles is the responsible thing to do. Voting with your purchasing dollars is the only way to fight back. Letters are circulating to boycott certain oil companies, but that is only a temporary fix at best and more likely an empty threat. The real problem is the rest of the world is beginning to demand increasing amounts of crude. China will be the major player in pushing fuel prices through the roof as we direct more production to that country.

Presently wages in China are $.60 to $.90 per hour so more production is bound to go there. That will push them and other underdeveloped countries to use more oil as their labor pool is utilized. That in turn will push the cost of gas in America up to world prices over $4.00 per gallon. You can take that to the bank Lucy, and while you are there, withdraw a lot of money to pay for the $100.00 fill ups at the pump for a tank of gas.

In contrast to opening my wallet wider I like the option of buying a Cobalt or one of its competitors that get over 30-highway mpg. That is double what you are probably getting from that SUV or Truck or other big V8 you are driving. With that one move, all at once you have cut your fuel cost in half. Secondly the trend will push manufacturers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles or lose market share.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – USA

Class: – Subcompact

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

Handling & Performance:

Performance is good for a 145 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine. I remember well my 1963 VW Carman Ghia. We’d go from LA to Las Vegas and all the traffic would pass us going up hill and we’d pass them all going down hill. Well, that is not the case with this Cobalt, but it will struggle and work hard on the hills if you want to keep up with today’s traffic. Face it, they will run you over if you don’t get out of the way. “But ma, I’m doing 80 now…”

Styling:

Plain wrap and clean describes it well. Not a lot of frills on the exterior and the interior is clean and basic as well. That’s a good thing.

Fit and Finish:

Good and perhaps even Very Good for the money.

Cost:

Affordable comes to mind for this family sedan that seats 5. If you want power windows and locks and ABS brakes you can opt for the LS or the LT sedan where those features are standard. It will up the price by $2-5,000.

Conveniences:

When you consider “Affordable” one shouldn’t expect a lot of power stuff like seats, windows and auto air. This is a great transportation car that will get you and the family there in comfort if not elegantly. Face it, when you set the seat it is unlikely you will change it very often. I did miss not having power windows (not available on the Sedan), and door locks are optional. Guess I could live without those too.

Consumer Recommendation:

I was a happy camper with this basic transportation family, seats 5, sedan. Chevy has always been a reliable car and if you don’t require jack rabbit burn the rubber off the tires starts and won’t expect to tow the boat or trailer, this is a great economical family car that is truly affordable. I gotta tell you, I, and I’m sure you have friends with the money to buy any car they want, who are happy owning rather than being owned by their car.

Advertisers will try to convince you to spend 3 to 5 times the money to be a complete human being, but it just isn’t true.

The Competition:

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

Good News:

There is a ton of competition in the field, great economy family vehicle, most of the basic needs without the frills that jack up the price.

Bad News:

Light on the horsepower and torque to tow, basic features to some people will be a turn off.

Standard Equipment:

2.2 liter 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual trans, power steering, power front disc and rear drum brakes, dual air bags, theft deterrent, battery rundown protection, child safety latch system and rear door locks, daytime running lights, air conditioning, stereo with CD player, reclining front bucket seats, 60/40 split rear folding seat, console, tilt steering wheel and remote trunk release.

Gas Stats:

24 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $13,625.

2005 Toyota Tundra Double Cab LTD 4X4 V8. (535)

16-02-2005Autolove No comments

OK, on to the next in a series on pickup trucks. The 2005 Toyota Tundra Double Cab LTD 4X4 V8 is Japan’s way of going Off Broadway to say “I can do anything you can do, better, I can do anything better than you. Yes I can, yes I can…” Remember the lyrics to Annie Get your Gun?

Well, can they? Chrysler, GM and Ford would take issue with that and America still has the corner on the truck market. Why, because they are better, older or more experienced? Probably a little of each. But Toyota for one Japanese company is putting the pressure on with the likes of Tundra and Tacoma (publication March 12) while Nissan hits hard with the Frontier and Titan.

To see the seriousness of competition in the truck market one only need look at the heavy advertising push of the Japanese to look as tough as the image portrayed by Dodge Ram “Grab life by the horns”, Ford Tough and “Built Like a Rock” Chevy.

Handling & Performance:

This is serious stuff. Trucks are the business end of transportation and we all expect they are the closest thing to indestructible go anywhere vehicles. They must pull a house, carry a ton of rock and sand or lighten the job of hauling a load of bricks. And all the time it has to do zero to 60 in under 7 seconds. We don’t ask much, huh? Well this Tundra helped me do all those things and you gotta believe the Big 3 are on notice that Japan is here to stay in the truck market.

Styling:

A truck’s a truck’s a truck… well perhaps unless you forget about the marvelous Retro Chevy SSR we talked about recently, a truck is rather boring and more utilitarian by nature. And in the end all the hoopla about design means little when considering how well do they do all the stuff a truck needs to do for you.

Fit and Finish:

Great. And that’s ok, but not all that necessary. I’d rather have a 110 outlet in the back of the cargo area and tie downs. Hey this is business, and even if you don’t haul a ton of hay home to the range you need practical goodies to entice me to choose between the competition. Are you listening Truck makers?

Cost:

All trucks are over priced.

Conveniences:

I would prefer, as noted above, more truck adornments than all the luxury items that should be optional. A truck should have neat utility ideas put into action. That’s what real men want in their helpmate.

Standard equipment should include a Skill and Chain Saw, Rotating Hammer Drill, hay loader, and power outlets and cargo lights. I’ll bet if manufacturers asked designing engineers to give a little thought to what “Tool Time” things guys like, they would draw a lot of interest to their products by adding such things.

Come-on guys think!

Consumer Recommendation:

As always, review the application you primarily intend for a trucks use in your life and then find the one that fits best. Ok, so I have a keen sense of the obvious, but often we get distracted by how cool they look and then spend years regretting the choice. Kinda like looking for a wife, eh.

The Competition:

Toyota Tundra $16-33,000, Ford F-150 $20-36,000, GMC Sierra 1500 $18-42,000, Chevrolet Silverdo 1500 $18-39,000, Nissan Titan $23-35,000, Dodge Ram 1500 $21,355.

Good News:

Perceived Toyota quality, V-8 power, roomy and comfortable ride.

Bad News:
Poor fuel economy which you’d expect as the flip-side of having V8 power.

Standard Equipment:

4.7 liter 282 hp V8 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, touch select 4 WD system, power steering and power vented ABS front disc and rear drum brakes, tire pressure monitor, fog lamps, dbl wall cargo bed with tie down hooks, rail caps and locking tailgate, mudguards, captains chairs center console, 60/40 split rear seat, AC, AM/FM with cassette and CD players and steering wheel controls, power windows, locks and mirrors, anti theft with remote entry, cruise control and tilt steering wheel.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $33,075.

2005 Toyota Tacoma 4WD Dbl Cab (534)

09-02-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2005 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4X4. I got on a Truck kick to cover as many as possible and as close together to be able to recall and compare. It was a good opportunity to do this because of the drastic weather here in Southern California.

At my ranch in the high desert I experienced the full force of nature with a lot of rain concentrated in a short period of time. As I watched the evening news show surreal events of houses sliding down hillsides and hillsides sliding down onto houses below I could look out my window and watch the real thing happening in living color, helpless to alter the course of the flowing water and mud.

Although a tractor is the real hero in these situations it is the truck that provides the ability to carry the supplies from Home Depot to rebuild and then haul the trash away. So I scheduled a series of trucks to highlight their unique abilities and features. In the trenches of battle against the forces of nature all were capable as trucks go. A base truck is all you generally need in these cases and fancy does little to improve function. However the double cab or crew cab feature provides the best of both worlds. As to the fancy interior, it is a distraction to have to pull your muddy body into an interior more suited for a tuxedo-clad cowboy. Uh huh. I agree it is a contradiction in terms. Not to say the Marlboro man doesn’t clean up real well.

Aside from the fact that all the trucks I tested during this time were too pretty, there were several thoughtful features as well. Great tie down apparatus and even AC outlets in the back of the bed for using power tools out back. Bottom line: as always, the features you’ll need will be dictated by the purpose intended. Both of the above features would surely be important on the ranch in Southern California and even more important on the ranch in Southern Oregon that is far more remote. If you’re on the north forty fixing fence the AC outlet is better than a battery-operated skill saw, for example. And a heavy-duty trailer hitch and 4 wheel drive is a must for hauling a 6 horse trailer and dealing with those muddy roads ahead without paved detours.

Handling & Performance:

A 245 horsepower V6 powered this solid feeling, big, bulky and strongly substantial answer to the rough and tumble lineup of trucks and it competes effectively with those listed below.

Styling:

The appearance speaks more to the street scene with a huge air scoop on the hood that is all show and no go. It is window dressing only with no functionality. It just goes to show you we are more into “Form rather than Function”. As I’ve said before trucks have never looked prettier than they do today.

Fit and Finish:

Consistent with the competition – all of which agree that the consumer demands car like refinement in how a truck is put together. On a working ranch however such attention to detail is wasted.

Cost:

The Tacoma is priced pretty well with lots of basic stuff like air and manual adjusting seats and the upper end of the pricing is for the four-door crew cab configuration well worth the money.

Options can be added for that Rhinestone Cowboy like upgraded audio, side curtain airbags and a TRD Sport package that will quickly bring the price to $31,000.

Conveniences:

The base appointed Tacoma is just fine as a work truck.

Consumer Recommendation:

Determine the application and equipment needs accordingly. You can cut the cost and still get the job done. For the Beverly Hills contractor, you’ll want to add all the fu fu stuff to look cool. Golfing buddy and contractor, Ken, opted for the GMC Canyon. He’s been happy with it but always looking at what he’ll try next. My favorite in this group to win the coin toss would be the Nissan Frontier, but I would be happy with any in this lineup. I own a Dodge Ram 3500 Dualee but I’ll tell you my intention is to replace it with a conventional 4-wheel drive in this price category, even though I like the Cummins Diesel with 250,000 miles. It’s just getting broke in.

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

Good News:

Solid, nice styling, convenient 4-door, 4WD for the ranch, comfortable seats and Japanese quality.

Bad News:

Fuel economy could be better.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter 245 hp V6 gas engine, 5-speed automatic trans, 4 wheel on demand system with 2-speed transfer case, coil over shock double A arm front suspension, multi leaf rear suspension with staggered outboard mounted shocks and front stabilizer bar, power assist rack and pinion steering, power assisted front disc and rear drum ABS brakes and brake force distribution, dual air bags, composite long bed liner with steel panel rail caps and removable tailgate deck rail system with adjustable tie down cleats, 60/40 rear bench seat, air conditioning, power windows and door locks and mirrors, AM/FM with CD player, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, engine immobilizer and aux power outlet.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 21 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,250.

2005 Jaguar XK8 Convertible (531)

19-01-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2005 Jaguar XK8 Convertible. Ok, so it’s a chick car. You can verify that by looking at the drivers on the road if you don’t believe me. But hey, guys if that’s the case we should be buying a Jag as a good way to attract the ladies. Really! But men are macho and they would opt for a muscle car and the more affordable Corvette is manlier.

I bring up the Vette because I just tested the C6 and loved it. But when it comes to style and class the Jag can’t be ignored. It is far more elegant and refined in looks. Both are effectively 2-seat sport cars even though the Jag has an ultra small back seat. Ok, so I guess in a pinch you can seat children. The fact of the matter is that is exactly what I had to do when daughter Jen and her 7-year-old girl joined me at the Santa Anita racetrack to watch a friends horse run. The horse won and we had our picture taken in the winner’s circle. Quite a thrill. And this Jag is a winner too. It felt good to hear the Valet suggest that on such a beautiful day we should put the top down. Exactly what we did.

Jen had to move really far forward so Cierra’s feet would rest on the floor. Jen is just over 5 feet and with any other combination of passengers it wouldn’t have worked. But with the Vette it would have been totally out of the question anyway.

If I were promoting the Jag I would say the interior is cozy and you can literally reach every nook and cranny front and back from the drivers seat. If I were bad-mouthing the car, the interior would be described as cramped. For sure this is not for large or tall people, but since the average height of a man is 5 foot 9 and a woman at 5 foot 5 there are more than enough buyers.

Handling & Performance:

This Jag ignores a windy road. In fact you tend to look forward to challenging curves – the windier the better. And 294 horsepower gives that confidence on the highway for power when you need it.

Styling:

Classic Jag.Timeless design. I hope they never change the look. It is distinctive and truly one of a kind.

Fit and Finish:

Very good accented with the luxury feel of real Burl Walnut wood. This is what adds that touch of class and gives it the elegance only the Real Thing provides.

Cost:

A bunch, but relative to other close competitors like the Cadillac XLR without a rear seat, you may find some justification for the price.

Conveniences:

The convertible top is a delight. It is so easy to use and quickly transforms the mood. Drive away door locking is a small but nice touch. Rain sensing windshield wipers are something you won’t miss unless you’ve experienced them.

Consumer Recommendation:

If money is no object and you want a sport car and will have little need for passengers this is a lovely automobile. It is simply as classy and refined as a sport car can get and one you can’t help but be proud to drive.

The Competition:

Jaguar XK8 $70-86,000, Maserati Coupe $81-85,000, Cadillac XLR $76,000, Mercedes Benz SL Class $90-179,000, Lexus SC 430 $63,000, Acura NSX $89,000, Porsche 911 $69-141,000, BMW 6 Series $70-77,000.

Good News:

Elegant timeless Jaguar styling, great one button convertible top, fun highway handling and important state of the art Stability control feature (all cars should have it).

Bad News:

Annoying door handles, poor foot clearance around the gas and brake pedals, extremely tight rear seating and tough to get in and out of.

Standard Equipment:

4.2 liter 294 hp V8 engine, 6-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, dynamic stability control, speed sensitive steering, anti theft engine immobilizer, front and side airbags, drive away locking, remote entry, security system, memory settings, 320 watt audio system w/ 6 CD changer, burl walnut trim, power top with glass window, rain sensing wipers, reverse parking control.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $74,830.

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

2005 Acura TL (526)

15-12-2004Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2005 Acura TL in the Pacific Northwest. Traveling through the Columbia River Gorge National Park for about 150 miles from just East of Portland to Hermiston, OR is a beautiful sight.

The stress of finding my way around was lessened by the fact it was equipped with a NAV system. GPS is wonderful and this feature is a must for those who travel a lot, or their job takes them to new territory much of the time. Daughter Jenny is in sales and decided to include this option on her Acura TL. That was another reason why I was pleased to be able to give the TL a good test. What a lovely car. It is no wonder this is Acura’s top selling sedan.

Back in the late 80’s I owned a Lincoln Mark IV with a first generation Navigation system called ETAK. It functioned with cassette tapes you’d select from depending on the locale and if your system wasn’t calibrated regularly it wasn’t terribly accurate. It wasn’t GPS back then and was frankly more trouble than it was worth. It was simply an expensive toy. We’ve come a long way baby.

And this one has all the latest features and has made a simple but important change over others I’ve reviewed. You press a button to give voice status rather than being interrupted all too frequently in other systems.

General Info:

Parts – Engine – USA, Trans – Japan. US/Canadian 65%, Japan 20%.

Assembly – Marysville, OH, USA

Class: – Midsize

Cars: – MDX, NSX, RL, RSX, TL and TSX.

Handling & Performance:

A pleasure to drive – comfortable seats on long drive, perfect suspension from the 4-wheel double-wishbone design. Although you will likely never sense the stability program feature, this is one of the best innovations to come along in many years. This is where the computer applies power and braking to the wheels that need it to help you control the car in stressful maneuvers. I’ve tested this feature on the track and obstacle courses and it truly works wonderfully.

Styling:

Very much a contender to BMW and Mercedes and Audi.

Fit and Finish:

In the top 10% of cars we have to choose from.

Cost:

Not bad for this kind of quality.

Conveniences:

In addition to sporting many great features, Acura (like Lexus) has a great customer care program. The price includes a 4 year / 50,000 mile warranty, toll free customer assistance and 24 hour roadside assistance service. The very nice XM Satellite radio initial activation is included along with the first 3-months service for free.

Consumer Recommendation:

It would be fun test-driving all of them, but for me it is a relatively easy choice. I would flip a coin between the Cadillac CTS, Volvo S40 and this Acura TL. Yes, I’ve got it down to three but would be willing to leave the final choice to chance because I know I wouldn’t be disappointed with either of the three.

The competition:

Acura TL $33-35,000, BMW 3 Series $28-44,000, Saab 9-3 $26-42,000, Chrysler 300 $23-34,000, Cadillac CTS $30-49,000, Lincoln LS $32-43,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class $26-54,000, Volvo S40 $23-28,000, Audi A4 $26-44,000, Lexus IS 300 $29-31,000, Infiniti G35 $30-33,000.

Good News:

Loads of great features, great performance and stability program safety, great styling and Japanese quality, even though it is built in the US where employee care is not as good. I’ve watched them work in Japan in similar industries and since I’ve grown up here I see a difference in work ethics – there IS a difference.

Bad News:

Japanese care and quality will cost you a premium. Is it too much for the difference? Only you can decide that.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 270 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans with sequential sport shift, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power steering, 100,000 miles between tune-ups, dual front and side air bags, side curtain airbags, VSA (Variable Stability Assist), remote entry with security system and immobilizer theft deterrent system, Navigation system with voice recognition, leather seats, 8-speaker surround sound system with DVD and 6 CD and cassette players, XM satellite radio, climate control, 8-way driver power seat with lumbar support, 4-way passenger power seat, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, power window and door locks, hands free telephone interface and homelink system, computer information system, power moonroof with tilt and auto open / close feature, Xenon HID headlights and heated power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $34,900.

2005 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT 4WD (525)

08-12-2004Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I tested the 2005 Chevrolet Trail Blazer EXT 4WD Special Purpose SUV. It occurs to me looking at the number of cars and trucks and SUV’s Chevrolet is responsible for on our roads, one must wonder if there are too many of the line. Why do they produce so many cars? Just an observation.

This Trail Blazer is on the cutting edge of technology and I’m thrilled to see GM take the lead in R&D to improve the cars we drive. I was impressed with the Hy-Wire fuel cell vehicle from GM a year or so ago which they feel will be available commercially in 10-20 years. Personal fuel cell vehicles will trail commercial by about 10 years. Well, it’s a long time, but at least they are forging ahead. In the meantime, they are doing the things they can do, with present development of technology, such as this Trail Blazer that is engineered with DOD, for Displacement on Demand.

During a Press Conference at the LA Auto Show 2005, keynote speaker, Volkswagen AG Chairman Bernd Pischetsrieder made it clear they don’t really share the optimism for Hydrogen powered vehicles like the Hy-Wire I mention here. Basically he says for all around improvement for the environment and better fuel economy, diesel is the best solution. I have written about this issue in the past, and I believe he is right, and I agree that Bio-fuels will play a big roll in that progression away from fossil fuels until other sources, like hydrogen are more practical.

Back to the present…

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Oklahoma City, OK. USA

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Aveo, Blazer, Cavalier, Cobalt, Colorado, Corvette, Equinox, Express, Express cargo van, Impala, Malibu, Malibu Maxx, Monte Carlo, Silverado 15,25 & 3500, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Trail Blazer, Uplander and Venture.

Handling & Performance:

One of the original in this class, Chevrolet remains one of the best performers. Displacement on Demand keeps GM up with current technology. DOD is a Cylinder deactivation technology that is intended to improve fuel economy without sacrificing performance. It does this by using only half the cylinders during low power demand and kicks in all 8 when power is needed. It shuts down every other cylinder in firing order during light load operation. The valves simply stay closed unless they are needed.

Styling:

I like it. Always have.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

All of the competition is similarly priced. Trail Blazer is certainly on the better end of the cost curve.

Conveniences:

Very good compliment for the money.

Consumer Recommendation:

In my opinion this is the best of the bunch. The price is right, the styling is “Today” and it must be in your list of those to test drive. However, that being said, and although they are not in this class for competition, “Crossovers” (cross of SUV and Mini Van) should be considered here. In a review to come I had the pleasure of testing the New Buick Terraza and in my opinion this breed is better than the SUV. It carries all the SUV look, eliminates the 4-wheel drive and thus improves on gas performance and includes sliding doors that are so much more convenient – and all for the same money or less.

The Competition:

Trail Blazer $28-34,000, Mercury Mountaineer $30-39,000, Ford Explorer $27-38,000, GMC Envoy $30-42,000, Dodge Durango $27-36,000, Toyota 4Runner $27-37,000, Honda Pilot $27-34,000, Infiniti FX $35-45,000, Mitsubishi Montero $35,800.

Good News:

Long history in this class.

Bad News:

Fuel economy is not as good as I would hope for.

Standard Equipment:

5.3 liter V8 engine, 4-speed electronic trans, power steering, power heated mirrors, daytime running lights, dual front air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, rear child safety door locks, battery rundown protection, theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, rear heat and air, stereo with CD player, bucket seats with 8-way driver seat, folding 2nd and 3rd row seats, power rear glass vents and under floor rear storage.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $34,270.

2005 Pontiac G6 GT Sedan (524)

01-12-2004Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2005 Pontiac G6, GT Sedan. I remember when mom owned a Pontiac way back when. In those days it was not politically incorrect to talk about Cowboys and Indians or Speedy Gonzalez, or Pepe Le Pew.

Pontiac advertising used American Indians in their ads showing an Indian with hand held to his brow to shade the glare of the sun enunciating clearly but with an Indian accent, “Ugh, Pontiac heap good car”. Of course us kids would shorten it a bit and make fun of the ad, saying “Ugh, Pontiac heap”. Funny how that made a lasting impression on how it can make you feel about the quality of a car like this Pontiac.

I could hardly reach the pedals on mom’s Pontiac so any car would be cool then. Don’t tell the police I was driving without a license. Of course that was pretty common back then and you could even get a learners permit at age 15 and to us that was an obvious validation of our right to drive. Perhaps that’s where I formed the belief it is a God given right to drive on the highways. After all, I help pay for them. Today the government would have you believe it is a “privilege” to drive. Don’t you believe it, or before you know it, they will blackmail you and use that “privilege” and next make it a privilege to breath or exercise other bodily functions. Then you can bet our wise elected officials would tax those functions too. Whoa, better hold it there or I’ll get on my soapbox and tell you what I really think about our “Out-of-Control” government.

General Info:

Parts –

Assembly – Lake Orion, MI, USA

Class: – Compact

Cars: – Aztek, Bonneville, G6, Grand AM, Grand Prix, GTO, Montana, Sunfire and Vibe.

Handling & Performance:

This is an all American muscle car. Yes, it is the last of the Mohechans – (gee, I wonder if that is politically correct to use the name of an Indian Tribe in this context?). Muscle cars imply brute force, which has always been a sign of Americana. Kids have tweaked cars to the max and beyond and our pioneer spirit and rebel attitude has, at the end of the day, worked to make cars and other things better. It is the individual that pushes the envelope and given enough time and money they will make a space ship better than NASA. I’d like to think this Pontiac is a reflection of the demands of our youth on performance, which made companies like General Motors do what our youth had wanted all along.

A criticism of American cars is that Detroit has not changed with the times and technology. That they refuse to get rid of the old “Tried and True” pushrod engines, whilst the rest of the world is moving on to better performing engines. Thus you will notice the rough sounding engine noise on this G6 that is so characteristic of American cars, as compared to smooth running (little or no vibration) from engines in all Japanese cars for example with overhead camshafts and 4 valves per cylinder.

Ok, so old dogs can learn new tricks, and next year the G6 will offer a new 2.4-liter, overhead camshaft, 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower.

Styling:

This is the best Pontiac has produced in too many years. You gotta love the great look even if you’re not a Pontiac fan.

Fit and Finish:

Plastic, like so many new cars today forced to continue cutting costs. But more importantly, it is done with more attention to detail. The air conditioning vents for example feel good to the touch. I like the ratchet solid settings you get which is far better than in the past and better than much of the competition. Nice touch GM, which shows some sensitivity to the criticism of the past.

Cost:

American made cars remain the best buys from a price to value standpoint. There isn’t much question, in my mind, that for the long haul you are better to pay more if you intend to keep your car longer than 4 or 5 years or you put a lot of miles on each year. Me, I don’t keep a car long and in this “Throw away” world it will be cheaper to replace almost anything after a few years than try to fix it. Consider for example any consumer electronics item or appliance. Seldom is it worth saving the receipt or filling out the warranty card. Why? Because it would cost more to return it or send it back for repair than to simply get the latest and greatest and toss the other.

Repairing a vintage television, record player, tape recorder or most anything you can think of is not cost effective, even if you could find a repair technician above grass level. Cars have just about achieved that status these days as well. Hard to believe, but true.

If you want to pump the price up a bit, an option package is available to add Chrome to the wheels, upgrade the stereo with a 6-disc CD player, power panoramic roof, which is an over sized sun roof that opens like an accordion and OnStar system for $3,145 and a leather package including seats, steering wheel, hand brake and shift knob, heated seats and a 6-way power driver seat for $1,365. And you can add side impact airbags and head curtain side bags for $690 and finally a remote starter system costs an additional $150.

Conveniences:

Ho hum – unless, of course, you go for the optional equipment to jazz things up a bit. For example, you can start the car from the warmth and comfort of your house at the push of a button on the remote keyless fob. Don’t laugh, if it’s snowing or frosty out, you can start the car and it will be warm and defrosted when you walk out the front door and step into it.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are into muscle cars and like the availability of cars like the fabulous GTO of the 1960’s there isn’t much left to choose from. Camaro is gone now and only this and the Mustang remain in my memory. If you are simply into performance from the car you drive, the competition is rich in the area power off the line, without all the noise and fanfare.

The competition:

Pontiac G6 $21-23,000, Dodge Intrepid $21-25,000, Chrysler Concorde $23-29,000, Hyundai Sonata $16-20,000, VW Jetta $17-24,000, Mitsubishi Galant $18-26,000, Kia Amanti $24,995, Nissan Altima $17-29,000, Ford Taurus $21-24,000, Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Chevrolet Malibu $19-24,000, Toyota Camry $18-25,000, Honda Accord $16-29,000, Mazda 6 $19-26,000.

Good News:

It’s a traditional muscle car, fast, sporty and great styling, fun to drive, roomy interior and a nice roomy trunk and finally you can’t ignore the great pricing.

Bad News:

Plastic, clunky suspension at times and perceived planned obsolescence.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 200 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans w/ overdrive and manual shift mode, sport suspension, 17” cast alum wheels, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes with traction control, front airbags, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system, power mirrors, spoiler, fog lights, air conditioning, stereo with CD player and 8-speakers, tilt and telescopic wheel, power trunk release, power widows and locks and cruise control.

Gas Stats:

21 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $23,300.

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