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

2003 Volkswagen EuroVan MV (463)

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2003 Volkswagen EuroVan MV (463)

Overview:

This week I looked at the 2003 Volkswagen EuroVan MV, for Multi Van, Camper version, meaning it has a pop up top with a bed and the third row bench seat pulls forward to make into another bed. I like to camp and this gave me the opportunity to shake down the van in the environment it was made for. All things considered it was good. Not great, but good.

Surely the ride was smooth and designed for the autobahn where speed limit is to my liking – None. But here in the US it is unlikely you’d ever get the chance to see if it would reach 200 KPH or 120 MPH let alone the speedometer that indicates 160 MPH. I don’t think so.

My better half said repeatedly that she likes it, and gives it thumbs up during and after our camping outing, while I’m less impressed and find several thumbs down issues. I wasn’t as comfortable, for example, in the upper sleeping area. I think it would be fine for children and the lower rear fold down seat that makes into a bed would be better for adults. The upper was just too claustrophobic for me. You can’t lie on your back and put your knees up without hitting the top.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 1%, Germany 75%.

Assembly –  Hannover, Germany

Class:  – Passenger Van

Cars: – EuroVan, Golf, Jetta, Jetta Wagon, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon & Touareg.

Fit and finish is very good with the exception of the bottom rough unfinished look.

Camper version with pop up top for 7 feet of clearance up front. The problem is the clearance drops at the rear. A scissor lift apparatus would have been a better choice for lifting the top… in my opinion.

Handling & Performance:

Drives great with smooth ride. It stands tall, so you do get that tipsy feeling but I never did feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Remember when VW’s were synonymous with slow? Not any longer. VW finally caught up with the “fast” women of the free love 60’s.

Styling:

The van sits very high which is even taller with the pop up on the camper version. Sitting high is nice for visibility but the bus-like seating requires a step that makes entry and exit as difficult as an SUV. Other current van designs are low slung with easier driver and front passenger access. VW also does not offer double sliding doors, as do competitive vans. But at the end of the day there aren’t any real competitors to the Camper version of this EuroVan.

VW has designed into the MV Camper the pop-top, but it lifts from the front with lots of room up front while narrowing to zero at the back. I believe they could have made it a scissor lift that would give the same clearance front and back.

Fit and Finish:

Generally VW is excellent and that is the case here, but I was surprised at the unsightly unfinished look around the bottom of the body.

Conveniences:

The shift is mounted on the floor, which requires an awkward reach.

Cost:

The MV Camper version I tested was over $32,000. That includes the Pop Up with a bed, a fold up table, and a rear bench seat that pulls forward for another bed. There was no refrigerator in my test vehicle but I understand it is a part of the camper package. The cost can’t be compared with the competition because the VW is unique. This is the only Camper mini-RV, so the price is not bad in that sense.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you want a quick get-a-way vehicle for a small family, or a longer trip for two this is a great way to go. You can avoid hotel room costs and avoid costly restaurants with a refer. There are so many campsites around the country with bath facilities including showers you can travel simply and cost effectively.

The Competition:

VW EuroVan $26-32,000, Chevrolet Venture $21-33,000, Chrysler Town & Country $24-37,000, Chrysler Voyager $21-24,000, Dodge Caravan $20-35,000, Kia Sedona $20-22,000, Mazda MPV $22-26,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $28-36,000, Toyota Sienna $23-37,000.

Good News:

Comfortable, spacious, versatile, powerful, second row seats can be easily removed.

Bad News:

Only fair mileage, cramped upper sleeper albeit ok for kids, awkward entry and exit, poor finish around bottom skirt, only one sliding door, no entertainment package offered and jerky accelerator.

Standard Equipment:

2.8-liter 201 hp V6 engine, front wheel drive, ESP electronic stabilization program, 4-speed auto transmission, power steering, independent suspension, power ABS braking system, dual front airbags, daytime running lights, height adjustable front seat belts, climate control, cruise control, stereo with cassette, power front windows, child safety rear door lock and anchors, remote keyless entry, power heatable outside mirrors, rear window washer and wiper, 3-place bench seat that is removable and converts to bed, fog lights, theft deterrent system, folding table, window curtains and rear cargo shelf.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $32,395.

2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T Wagon (462)

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2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T Wagon (462)

Overview:

This weeks test vehicle was the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T(Turbo) Wagon. My friend Rusty says, “this drives like my BMW. And are you sh…. kidding me about the price? I’m guessing in the $40’s.” No Rusty, I’m not kidding, but now that you mention it I am beginning to doubt what I recall was the window sticker.

Ok, so I verified it and Rusty says, “I’m a big guy (6’5” about 230 lbs) and this is really comfortable. And what did you say it got for mileage?” I didn’t Rusty, but it is almost 30 miles per gallon and at the current prices of gas in the US at about $2.00 a gal, this is a big plus. Rusty agreed and thought he would look further into owning one of these Jetta Wagons. But I told him to hold his horses and wait for the full review because he should look at the competition too.

General Info:

Parts –  US/Canadian 1%, Germany 70%, Transmission Japan.

Assembly –  Wolfsburg, Germany

Class:  – Small Station Wagon

Cars: – Eurovan, Golf, Jetta, Jetta Wagon, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon & Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

Ok, so it does feel like a BMW in its presentation and handling. It has a lot of the qualities of the Saab 9-5 Wagon too, but even if you add leather and power seats to bring the Swedish Saab and the German VW Jetta to a level playing field, the Saab will set you back a full $10,000 more. Jetta is definitely fun to drive and the turbo will flat impress you for a 1.8-liter engine. It will satisfy you hunger for power, but what do you expect from a German car?

Styling:

Well, I like it a lot. The lines are clean and they’ve designed in a lot of space for a car with small exterior dimensions.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent. It smacks of the appearance of much more expensive cars. I’m impressed, and I don’t impress easily.

Conveniences:

Neck and neck with the competition for less money. Good going VW. And they even throw in a sunroof.

Cost:

Very good by any measure and surely far and away ahead of the competition.

Consumer Recommendation:

Perhaps the closest competitor (for the money) is the Subaru Impreza but I’d still opt for the Jetta. I’m pleased to say this is a winner and I put a lot of miles on it for a full road test. I traveled up to Salinas, California in the central coastal region of the state. That’s right next to the beautiful Monterey / Carmel area on the coast. Salinas is the lettuce capital of the world for you trivia buffs but I picked up some artichokes, which, incidentally, were great.

The Competition:

VW Jetta Wagon $18-21,000, Audi A4 Avant $28-34,000, BMW 3-Series Sport Wagon $30-32,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $17-27,000, Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000, Mazda Protege5 $17,000, Mercedes Benz C Class Wagon $31-37,000, Saab 9-5 Wagon $35-40,000, Subaru Impreza Wagon $18-24,000.

Good News:

Outstanding pricing, good mileage, powerful with the Turbo, roomy and it even comes standard with a power glass sunroof with tilt.

Bad News:

Turbo adds power but it is jerky off the line. I’d think that could have been done better.

Standard Equipment:

1.8-liter turbo 180 hp 4-cylinder engine, front wheel drive, anti-slip feature, electronic locking differential, power steering, independent strut front suspension, power ABS disc braking system, daytime running lights, front and side airbags, Side curtain head impact airbags for driver, front and rear passengers, height adjustable front seat belts, adjustable front head restraints, child safety rear door locks and anchors, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, power heatable outside mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, center armrest, rear wiper washer system, split folding rear seat, roof rails, and cargo area cover.

(If you want a 5 speed automatic transmission add $1,075. Leather package that includes leather seats, heatable front seats, heated windshield washer and leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel, add another $1,050 – which is all worth it in my view).

Gas Stats:

22 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,240.

2003 Honda Accord EX Sedan (461)

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2003 Honda Accord EX Sedan (461)

Overview:

This weeks test vehicle was the 2003 Honda Accord EX, which is the next step up from the Civic I recently tested. The Civic was very impressive for the dough and this Accord is no exception. It occupies a top slot and a great contender with popularity that translates into being a sales leader in its class. I equate this car mostly with the Camry but Nissan has also done wonders in recent years. But that’s the rub – Nissan has launched some new looks and also improved in quality but Honda has had the rep and in the spotlight as top carmaker since the 1960’s. Those who were around in the early days of Honda cars in the USA, they were simply well built cracker box go-carts. But Honda has consistently grown to be top dog in the mid-size sedan category. That’s because Honda owners are devoted and loyal and almost like a cult. They will surely be proud of this car and the competition will shudder.

Handling & Performance:  

This Accord is fun to drive because it is still small enough to be nimble, Jack. In addition, I found myself driving much too fast because it is also very smooth in the transfer of power through the drive train. This is a sign of quality only found in more expensive cars. Steering is quick and the engine is fast except for the low end where you’ll have to get the RPM up ahead of clutch engagement.

Styling:

”Gee, looks like they’re trying to get that BMW look”, said one new car enthusiast. Yea, I guess so, but it’s BMW that should consider emulating Honda in reliability and economy. No, says BMW. We’re more interested in the money grubbing yuppies that want to impress people other than their banker.

Fit and Finish:

For a car of this price range it has put a lot of quality into the paint and detail inside and out. You’ve gotta feel good about owning one of these. You’d look cooler in a Ferrari but Honda will get you there in relative style.

Conveniences: 

Basically all the features are user friendly and are right where I’d put them too. I wish however manufacturers would install radios with a “Knob” control for channel selection. I keep bitching about it and if they’re listening they don’t give a rats ass. What do you think?

Cost:

I like it, because I could see myself driving one and still have enough to pay the rent. This and the Camry are top dogs in my book for best bang for the buck.

Consumer Recommendation:

General feeling from this very competitively close lineup in order of preference is: Accord, Camry, Altima and then Galant.

The Competition:

Honda Accord $16-28,000, Chevrolet Impala $21-27,000, Chrysler Sebring $20-30,000, Dodge Intrepid $21-25,000, Ford Taurus $20-23,000, Hyundai Sonata $15-19,000, Kia Optima $16-19,000, Mitsubishi Galant $18-25,000, Nissan Altima $17-23,000, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix $22-26,000, Subaru Legacy $20-25,000, Toyota Camry Solara $19-23,000, Toyota Camry $19-25,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-38,000.

Good News:

Smooth, tight feel, well priced, corners beautifully and has the power to keep you in the hunt without guzzling gas.

Bad News:

I’d be hard pressed to find negative things to say about this car so I won’t try.

Standard Equipment:

2.4-liter 160-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic distribution, power steering, dual front and side air bags, security and immobilizer anti-theft system, keyless entry, air conditioning, stereo with six disc in dash CD changer with anti-theft feature, steering wheel audio controls, power drivers seat, power windows and locks, cruise control, locking trunk pass through, tilt and tele steering column, power moon roof with tilt, 16” alloy wheels and auto headlights.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 34 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,060.

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

2003 Ford Super Duty F350 4X4 SuperCab (460)

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2003 Ford Super Duty F350 4X4 SuperCab (460)

Overview:
This week I was carried about by the 2003 Ford Super Duty F350 4X4 SuperCab pickup truck. And it totes more than folks around. It tows nearly 6 ¾ tons with a payload of about 2 tons with the single rear wheel and 2-wheel drive. With a dual wheel rear axle the payload is 5160 lbs in California and 5500 lbs in 49 other US states. 4-wheel drive increases the Gross Vehicle Weight and thus decreases the payload down to 4600 lbs.

The competition has similar muscle. GMC’s Sierra Dualee will tow 7 ½ tons and tote about 2 ½ tons. All the competition are close enough in capability that the decision will be more about your choice of which American manufacturer you’ll support. I prefer a Cummins diesel engine because I trust some friends that own trucking companies who wouldn’t drive anything but Cummins powered trucks. Ok, that means I have to buy the Dodge who places an emphasis on the Cummins brand name recognition. So I bought a dual wheel rear axle Dodge Ram 3500 with a Cummins diesel. Ford uses the Power Stroke Diesel that is a Ford product, and GM hangs its hat on the Duramax Diesel produced in association with Isuzu. It may be too early to know how well the Power Stroke 6.0 liter engine holds up for Ford. 

Another personal problem I have with Ford is that I don’t like to be reminded about putting my seatbelt on, which is what all Ford cars and trucks do for you. They have this annoying tone that goes off every 30 seconds until hell freezes over or you buckle up, whichever comes first. Mark says “I just hook it up the seat belt and sit on it because seat belts are uncomfortable for me to wear”. But my accident reconstruction friend (and relative), Steve says his professional experience proves that since most vehicles today are equipped with air bags you MUST wear your seatbelt or you can be seriously injured in an accident without seatbelt restraint if the airbag is deployed. So “Buckle up and drive safely” is not just a slogan. Your life could depend on using it in conjunction with air bag technology.

Editorially however I resent being told what I should and what I shouldn’t do. Just like the Helmet law enacted in too many states by bureaucratic control freaks bent on protecting motorcycle riders from themselves. Where did free will go? Where are the Free Choice activists or the ACLU when you need them? And although I use the seatbelt the idea that someone else forces me to be reminded is what I hate. Anyway it should be my business … argh, argh, argh!

By the way, before there was a seat belt law or helmet law people bought them and used them. Some car companies even made seatbelts optional equipment. What do you know, CHOICE… my choice, and not because some bureaucrat morons thought it necessary to pass a law confirming my choice thereby making it a “Mandatory Compliance” issue. I believe if you give people the facts they will generally do the right thing. One person is just as capable as the next, but some are just less informed. So, inform them and let them make the choice.

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – United States

Class: – Pick up Truck

Cars: – Crown Victoria, Escape – van and wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer – sport and trac, F150-250 and 350, Focus, Freestar, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus, Thunderbird and ZX2.

Handling & Performance:

This thing drives like a truck. Oh, right it IS a truck. And the turning diameter is lousy to prove it. Ford is second best out of four competitors by a whole half a foot at 49.6 feet. One reason I like this workhorse is that it is a single rear wheel model and close enough in performance to dual rear wheel models. Dualee’s are that much harder to maneuver.

Styling:

”Built Ford Tough” or “Like a Rock” says Chevrolet means they are rugged. Well they’ve managed to make ‘em rough while maintaining nice lines and they are assembled better than a truck needs to be.

Fit and Finish:

Trucks ain’t what they used to be, just like the “Old gray mare”… and in this case it’s all for the better. Nice attention to detail.

Conveniences:

Great rear view mirrors that come with an insert below the regular mirror and the insert points beautifully at the next lane. Ok, but why is it no manufacturer can make a vehicle with a sun visor that actually blocks the sun on the side as well as the front window. Doesn’t anyone at the plant actually drive these things? Or is it always cloudy in Detroit?

Some will call the seat belt beep warning a convenience. I call it an annoyance. I wonder how many Ford buyers disable that beep, beep, beep… ?

It has a lot of nooks and crannies and a clipboard top on the center console. I love when designers “Think”.

Cost:

Very expensive as a transportation Vehicle. And when they don’t publish EPA numbers on fuel consumption look out… and incidentally trucks like this are not required to publish such stats.

Consumer Recommendation:

When you have a need for a truck with “Attitude” a Diesel is the hot ticket. On the ranch we have several Diesels and when you need to haul a ton or two of hay you learn how valuable 390 foot pounds of Torque can be. If you don’t have the need, don’t do the deed… because it is simply too expensive as “Just a truck” transportation.

The Competition:

Ford F350 Super Duty $22-37,000, Chevrolet Silverado 3500 $28-40,000, Dodge Ram 3500 $25-41,000, GMC Sierra 3500 $29-37,000.

Good News:

Strong-working truck single rear wheel, competitive and attractive, great rear view mirrors, relatively comfortable and uncharacteristically responsive for a diesel.

Bad News:

Bumpity – bump – bump – bump on cement highways, small bench seat in rear, pricey for a pickup with extended cab space in rear and poor turning radius.

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter 260 hp Diesel V-8, 5-speed diesel automatic transmission, cargo box light, power mirrors, trailer towing package, tailgate key lock, stereo with cassette and CD player, power windows and locks, power steering, dual air bags, power ABS brakes. Note: Dual wheel rear axle is optional.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway Estimated MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,465.

2003 Jaguar XKR Convertible (459)

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2003 Jaguar XKR Convertible (459)

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Jaguar XKR Convertible on a trip around California. Being on the open road I got a great chance to experience the Adaptive Cruise Control package that was totally impressive. I know some other cars have it but I noticed the improvement since the last one I tested. It is unbelievably accurate. In addition it was equipped with a GPS Navigation system. Some day all cars will use similar technology so you should be able to put it on “Auto Pilot”. The technology is here, but just needs the infrastructure to catch up. Thanks to the folks who can afford to pay the big bucks for development of this kind of technology.

On the stupid side, the car comes equipped with a rear seat but what’s the point? With the front seats in a comfortable position there is virtually no legroom in the back. That’s zero, zip, nada. Without the seats you’d have more luggage room. Go figure.

Nephew Paul rode half way up central California with me and commented that this is definitely a “Chick Magnet”, and for some that’s all it will take to justify the purchase. But from another perspective it truly is a “Chick Magnet” for another reason… this is a car seriously preferred by women. Watch close at who is driving the next 100 Jags and I suspect it is 80% women.

The 2003 Jaguar XK Series is available in four trims: XK8 and XKR, both available as a coupe or a convertible. You’re gonna love this car.

Handling & Performance: 

Awesome would be one adjective, while smooth, cool and elegant would help to define this sports car further. Handling is made easier with the inclusion of the Adaptive Cruise control package. That allows you to set the cruise and the system monitors and maintains the exact distance between you and the car, bus or truck in front of you. It will speed up if the car in front moves out of the way or speeds up, and it will brake when it needs to as traffic slows. It takes very little getting used to and I miss it already now that I’ve moved on to the next test car. I particularly like it because it will watch over you if your mind wanders for that split second that causes so many accidents. It truly makes a magical touring car out of the ordinary.   It has two settings for Sport and Touring suspension.

Styling:

Jaguar has retained its distinctive look for all the years I can remember. There is no mistaking it’s a Jag. This has to be my favorite body style that is so reminiscent of the XKE in the 1960’s.

Fit and Finish:

The walnut burl wood dash is beautiful and it’s real. But you know, you can’t tell it from imitation plastic. That’s a bad thing or good if you consider how imitation component parts like this can be virtually as good as the real thing in appearance. Even if you tap on the surface you can’t really tell the difference. Everything fits well together as you’d expect for a car of this quality.

Conveniences: 

The most obvious is the Adaptive Cruise Control mentioned above, but it also has sensors that tell you when you are close to objects around you. This can be annoying, but if it is you can turn it off. I can’t bitch too much, but I did find it inconvenient that the odometer is not visible while the cruise is on. The other inconvenience was the cup holder that is on the center console must be closed in order to open the storage space beneath.

If you must own a convertible they don’t get any better than this one. The old fashioned days when you knew it was a convertible from the inside are gone. The headliner is so good you wouldn’t know you’re in a convertible. On the other hand the headroom is limited with the top up. The top of the windshield gets in the way for me at 5 foot 9” so taller than that will surely be a problem.

Cost:

Priceeeeeeeeeeey. Ok, so they are out of reach for most of us but you DO get that old feeling of class. That has always been the case, but since Ford took charge you also get much better reliability according to the “Wrenches” I talk with. 

Consumer Recommendation:

If this is in your price range you will want to include the Adaptive Cruise and the GPS Navigation system. And take a look at the Aston Martin for the best comparison for what you get for your money.

The Competition:

Jaguar XK Series $69-86,000, Acura NSX $89,000, Aston Martin DB7 Vantage $142-152,000, BMW Z8 $132-137,000, Lexus SC 430 $62,000, Mercedes Benz SL Class $86-113,000, Mercedes Benz CLK $44-69,000, Porsche 911 $69-182,000.

Good News:

Beautiful styling, powerful supercharged V8, ultra smooth touring ride and one touch power convertible top.

Bad News:

Useless rear seat, average mileage and pricey.

Standard Equipment:

 4.2 liter 32 valve supercharged, intercooled 390 hp V8 engine, 6-speed automatic, dynamic stability control, Brembo abs disc brakes, computer active suspension, dual front and side airbags, remote keyless entry, driveway locking feature, anti theft engine immobilizer and security system, memory settings, burl wood walnut trim, power top with glass rear window, rain sensing wipers and reverse park control and optional Adaptive cruise control package.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $88,130.

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

2003 Honda Civic (458)

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2003 Honda Civic (458)

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Honda Civic sedan. I’m scheduling the Hybrid version as soon as I can get it because this has to be one of the most important topics of this century. A reader tells me we only have 15 years of oil at the present burn rate. Perhaps you can shed more light on that comment. But even if it’s 30 years, I have to wonder if we have done enough to alter the problem. I have a keen sense of the obvious which becomes more evident every time I have to gas up. 2003 has seen gas prices go up almost 100%. Further, it is obvious with world gas prices double those in the US, we’ll all be more interested in what car companies are doing to improve.

In August 2003 I attended a General Motors “Tech Tour” and drove the “Hy Wire” fuel cell prototype along with currently available fuel-efficient vehicles. Hydrogen surely sounds like the answer to our problem, but its development will give OPEC heartburn. At 60 to 90 miles per gallon from cars like this Honda Civic Hybrid version would be a good first step on the road to reducing high auto cost.

It is not so surprising that Los Angeles is re-developing mass transit. The future promises to be fraught with transportation problems if we don’t recognize and plan ahead.

Remember the 6-P’s of business? Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.

Handling & Performance:   

I just love driving these cars. Ok, so I love Ferrari and that whole high performance thing, but for simple transportation you can’t beat cars like this Honda Civic. The ride is smooth with adequate power even at 127 hp. The VTEC engine mirrors the growth in carmakers that employ Variable Valve Timing technology along with electronic controlled fuel injection. American cars are behind in changing its power plants. Why, I have no idea.

Styling:

Conventional. That means clean lines, no frills but no spills either. Cookie Cutter? I suppose so. But that’s not bad when you consider this is designed for getting you from point to point with the least amount of hassle.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences: 

You usually can expect to get what you pay for, but with cars like this Honda Civic you get more than you pay for.

Cost:

Outstanding.

Consumer Recommendation:

Plan ahead. I hope my kids read this. Look at what’s happening around the world and be prepared. Take an interest and write car companies about your willingness to drive fuel-efficient vehicles. They truly need your encouragement. If you want send your comments to me and I’ll see they get to All Car companies.

The Competition:

Honda Civic $13-21,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $14-17,000, Daewoo Nubira $12,000, Dodge Neon $13-19,000, Ford Focus $13-19,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-14,000, Kia Rio $10,000, Mazda Protege $14-20,000, Mitsubishi Mirage $12,000, Nissan Sentra $12-17,000, Suzuki Esteem $13,000, Toyota Corolla $14-15,000, Toyota Prius $20,000, Volkswagen Golf $15-19,000.

Good News:

Outstanding fuel economy, fun to drive, good pricing and for many just being a Honda Car is good news enough.
Bad News:

Lightweight if you’re concerned about all the heavy SUV’s on the road that could squash you in an accident.

Standard Equipment:

1.7 liter 127 hp 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, front disc rear drum ABS brake system, power steering, dual air bags, child seat anchors, anti theft system, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, stereo, cruise control power windows and locks, power moonroof with tilt and shade, power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

30 City and 38 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $17,860.

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

2003 Mitsubishi Montero 20th Anniversary (457)

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2003 Mitsubishi Montero 20th Anniversary (457)

Overview:

Ok, I’ve taken all I can and I can’t take no more. This week I drove the 2003 Mitsubishi Montero 20th Anniversary edition and that’s the last SUV for a couple of months. I do a lot of SUV reviews because they are so much in demand. But you know what? When I want to go camping or other outing I like having this class vehicle.

Ok, so it’s a crew cab truck with a camper shell on the back. But that’s what makes it so damn attractive to so many. Now if they could only put a fuel efficient, clean burning diesel engine in it so we could all afford to actually go on those outings and feed more than the gas tank.

I like to stay objective, so I don’t dwell on what I’d buy if it were the only car I could own. But at the end of the day we all do a better job selecting the car that suits us than what man or woman would be best. Funny thing is… they’re both emotional decisions. Or do you check your future mate for strong muscles, good teeth, broad shoulders to carry larger loads, or broad hips for ease of child bearing, etc.?

General Info:

Parts – 99% Japan, 1% US / Canadian.

Assembly – Minokamo, Japan

Class:  – Special Purpose SUV Midsize

Cars: – Diamante, Eclipse, Endeavor, Galant, Lancer, Montero, Montero Sport, and Outlander.

Handling & Performance:

Unquestionably a comfortable ride comparable to the best. It felt a little bulky to me, but others characterize that feeling as big or solid. Big, solid or bulky, when you leave the gas pumps you’ll complain as I do about the massive amounts of gas required to feed these monster SUV’s.

Styling:

A departure from the conventional or is it rather odd looking; what do you think?

Fit and Finish:

Lose. Wide gaps. Have we finally westernized at least one Japanese car manufacturer with looser tolerances? The Germans are next. Reminds me of the classic difference between weapons produced by the Germans and the Americans in WWII. The US Army 45 Cal. Pistol would fire just fine after retrieving it from the mud, while the German Lugar would fail to fire if a speck of dirt was present.

Conveniences:

Well equipped but there is no free lunch folks. See you at the cash register. The third row seats neatly tuck away in the floor but access is rather limited. The best approach is through the rear door for people with short legs.

Cost:

Obviously at the top of the price range for this class of vehicle. Mitsubishi is reaching for the Luxury class but they haven’t yet developed the image. But I guess you have to start somewhere to set yourself apart from other competitors.

Consumer Recommendation:

Start complaining about poor mileage. It’s about time we raised a unified voice that we’re madder than hell and won’t take this any more. We know they can do better with performance but we haven’t put enough pressure on them. The revolt of the 1960’s made a statement and we ushered in the Japanese with their “basic”, “fuel efficient” cars to smack American carmakers in the chops. We did get better domestic cars, but not to be outwitted, American business sense rose to the occasion and beat back the revolution by buying foreign carmakers. Damn, I hate when that happens.

The Competition:

Mitsubishi Montero $32-38,000, BMW X5 $40-67,000, Dodge Durango $27-39,000, Ford Explorer $26-37,000, GMC Envoy $29-38,000, Isuzu Trooper $28-37,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $27-39,000, Land Rover Discovery $34-40,000, Mercedes Benz M-Class $37-66,000, Nissan Pathfinder $27-34,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $34-36,000, Toyota Land Cruiser $54,000.

Good News:

Plush comfort, tuck away third row seats, lively acceleration.

Bad News:

Poor fuel economy, pricey for a Mitsubishi, Consumer Reports Bashing (poor safety test results a few years back) – that could affect resale.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 215 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, leather, dual front and side air bags, child safety locks, anti theft immobilizer, traction control, 4-wheel drive, power abs disc brakes, power steering, air conditioning, infinity audio with 6 disc in-dash CD, power windows/locks and mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, stowable 3rd row seats, power driver seat, heated front seats, 16 inch alloy wheels with all season tires, power sunroof.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,397.

2003 Suzuki XL-7 4WD LTD (456)

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2003 Suzuki XL-7 4WD LTD (456)

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Suzuki XL-7 4WD LTD, because SUV’s are simply the hottest vehicle on the market. It really is a phenomenon that may end up with everyone owning at least one. But no crystal ball and if gas prices go much higher you’ll see an exodus to fuel efficient small cars. As you may recall, about 40% of all vehicles on the road today are truck or truck-like in the form of the Sport Utility Vehicle.

These Truck frame products are the most profitable for a car company’s lineup and they will necessarily give people what they want. But what we want seems to ignore practical transportation cars. You know, those are cars that get 35+ MPG of gasoline with an initial purchase price of about $10,000 new. Ok, so you won’t impress your friends, but you will impress your banker and retirement fund administrator. But in the real world car buyers insist on putting their financial security (reserve cash) into auto industry related company bank accounts. Why do we do that? As always I love to hear from the “Real” people so drop me a line and I’ll share your views with other readers.

On a positive note, some car companies are now advertising programs where the prospective buyer can take the car home a day or two. I guess they are hoping you’ll like it in your driveway instead of theirs. I’ll be interested to see how that works out. On balance it sounds good for the consumer but costly for the dealers, especially if people abuse the car and thus the program.

Handling & Performance:

Comfortable, low center of gravity for stability, but very sluggish with the 183 horses and if you insist on quick starts off the line the bad mileage will turn to horrible.

Styling:

Wonderful. I rather like the Star Wars Storm Trooper look – especially with the Pearl White paint and clean, smooth lines. I liked the car from the git-go. It is the largest vehicle Suzuki has produced.

 Fit and Finish:

For a car / SUV at this price range it is clearly a standout ready to do battle.

Conveniences:

Loaded! – As they used to say in the old days at a typical “high-pressure” sales lots. It was probably the 1950’s when car salesmen gave dealerships in California a bad name. That’s when transient migrant people from all over the US moved to California, the largest car market in the world, for jobs. Too many became car salesmen and the unsuspecting consumer was descended upon by hungry salesmen who glorified the automobile and impressed you with all the stuff that you just had to have. Conveniences were really few, by comparison with today’s gadget rich rides, so every innovative feature would garner a lot of attention, in the “good old days”.

There is third row seating for up to 7, but the rear two are tight and accessible for the “Little People”. They also fold forward nicely for a great cargo area. The door opens toward the curb to please 50% of the people, but at least it doesn’t open upward that allows stuff to fall to your feet and tick you off.

Cost:

Suzuki is here to play and so they priced this XL-7 to sell.

Consumer Recommendation:

Of the competition listed below this Suzuki is at the top of the heap. I took the 2002 Ford Escape for two weeks to Yellowstone Park, CA and although it was nice this 2003 Suzuki is beefier with more plush seats. For a long trip that could be a factor. On the other hand the Ford got 25 mpg on the road compared to 20 for this Suzuki so I didn’t complain about the Escape. I’m in the Montero as I write this so next week I’ll summarize its performance. So far I only see design and pricing issues in this class.

The Competition:

Suzuki XL-7 $20-25,000, Chevrolet Tracker $20-23,000, Ford Escape $19-26,000, Mazda Tribute $18-25,000, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $23-33,000.

Good News:

Classy styling, priced well for what you get.

Bad News:

Sluggish acceleration, lousy mileage.

Standard Equipment:

2.7 liter 183 hp V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, 4WD 2-speed transfer case, ABS brake system, climate control, tilt wheel with remote radio controls, audio system with 6 disc CF player, cruise control, leather, third row seating, alloy wheels, power windows, locks and heated mirrors, power tilt and slide sunroof, remote keyless entry, 100,000 mile 7 year transferable power train warranty.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $26,299.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2003 – An Automotive Love Affair

2003 Saturn ION (455)

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2003 Saturn ION (455)

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Saturn ION 4-door sedan that replaces the S-Series. My auto enthusiast nephew and colleague, Vince and I refer to cars like this as cookie cutter cars. The inference is that it means they are stamped out like cookies. But the ingredients are important as well as the design of the cutter and more so the care given to the production.

Yes, this Saturn car is a plain Jane to some and unassuming in its presentation. It is therefore unimpressive to folks that consider a car more than transportation in its simplest form. We’re such materialistic jerks if you really think about it. Always trying to impress other folks we don’t know and probably never will. I just had a long conversation with my daughter about the importance of who we are and now what we have to impress our neighbors. I put it this way. If you are embarrassed about the house you live in or the car you drive around your friends you don’t need a bigger and more expensive house and car…. You need new friends.

And with an economy car you can commute to work and keep more of the money you make all the way from purchase price to lower operating costs. The great mileage will help you make friends with this Saturn and you’ll probably acquire “more real” friends.

Handling & Performance:  

Ok, so I gave this a tough test taking it from Los Angeles to Bass Lake, California. I tested the 5-speed manual shift transmission and it was a trooper climbing the hills with relative ease. It handled the corners with ease as well.

Styling:

Cookie Cutter, simple design, but some feel it is a “Patch work” of shapes and angles.

Fit and Finish:

Functionally acceptable. Now don’t get the wrong idea by that label. Components are not poorly assembled, but I don’t expect the precision look and feel of a Mercedes or Lexus. Suffice it to say the seams and assembly are clean and functional with user-friendly controls well placed for ease of use. I do have one bitch however, and that was a whistling wind noise from the rear widow. That will drive a body mad like Chinese Water Torture. So, drive the car with the windows down, up without the radio and with the Air on and off. If it’s an assembly bug, they’ll fix it.

Conveniences: 

You know what, you don’t need the options noted below, but I’m beginning to find more and more reasons to have it the OnStar Communications system. The cost is really coming down and adds only $695 to the price tag. Why is it so good? Here’s one more reason: I’m driving up to a family reunion and I realize the battery on my cell is low and I forgot the 12-volt charger for the car. You know how much we’ve come to rely on cell phones and you know what I mean and the panic I felt. But wa-la I notice I have OnStar. I push the button and the concierge found a place closest to my route that not only was open, but also had the part in stock. I got off the highway, traveled two blocks, bought the charger, and was back on the road in ten minutes. Thank you Christine for the assist.

Cost:

Great pricing. Transportation doesn’t get much cheaper unless you ride a bicycle.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re a snob you would have stopped reading long ago. If you are looking for a solid economical car you’ll still be reading and if so, you should consider this very strongly for a good family commuter car that will serve you well at a fraction of the cost of the Jones’s high cost, low mileage SUV. Since 40% of all cars are SUV’s and trucks, I’ll hazard a guess you have at least one neighbor with at least one SUV. Go ahead; tell me I’m wrong.

The Competition:

Saturn Ion $11-16,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $14-17,000, Chrysler Sebring $20-30,000, Daewoo Nubira $12-14,000, Dodge Neon $13-19,000, Honda Civic $13-21,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-14,000, Kia Optima $16-19,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-29,000, Nissan Sentra $12-17,000, Pontiac Sunfire $15,000, Toyota Corolla $14-15,000.

Good News:

Roomy, great gas mileage, adequate power.

Bad News:

Whistling wind noise, cookie cutter styling and generally unexciting for me.

Standard Equipment:

 2.2 liter 140 horsepower inline 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, front disc- rear drum brakes, dent resistant exterior panels, stainless steel exhaust, air conditioning, power locks, remote keyless entry, power windows and mirrors, cruise control, stereo with CD and Cassette players, adjustable steering column, rear defroster, auto headlights, remote trunk release, fold down rear seats, dual front air bags, rear door child safety locks, theft deterrent immobilizer, daytime running lights. Options: Power Sunroof, Leather and OnStar communications system for a total of $2,400.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 33 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $15,010.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is joe@atthewheel.com
Copyright © 2003 – An Automotive Love Affair

2003 Mercedes Benz ML500 (453)

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2003 Mercedes Benz ML500 (453)

Overview:

This week I tested the 2003 Mercedes Benz ML500 Sport Utility. I didn’t have the occasion to play golf during the time I had the car, but I’ve got to tell you the snob appeal just went up a couple of points.

Now you can use the Mercedes Communications package (usually meant for emergencies), to make Tee Times on more than 300 golf courses through its Concierge Service. Well, excuuuuse meeeee. One-upsmanship, eh!

The M-Class Mercedes is available in the ML350, ML500 or the ML55 AMG trims. The modular engines are built entirely of aluminum, which seems to be a reemerging trend for many components using aluminum and other lightweight composites in the manufacture of many cars today.

The ride is stiff and much harder than I expected from a Mercedes. Naturally a softer ride is more comfortable but it also means that handling won’t be as good.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – USA

Class: – Special Purpose / SUV

Cars: – C Class & Wagon, CL Class, CLK, E Class & Wagon, G Class, M, Class, S Class, SL                  Class & SLK.

Handling & Performance:

The all-wheel drive system is innovative in that it does not use locking differentials to maintain continuous traction. It uses the 4-ETS+ system already used in the make\’s other all-wheel drive vehicles: it includes an electronic system that uses the ABS sensors to control individual wheel rotation and that distributes power to the differential whose wheels have the most traction. For off-road driving, the ML is equipped with a dashboard button that activates a shorter axle ratio.

The height is almost 72 inches, as compared with 62 inches for the Audi, high and a wide 76 inches. Lexus chimes in at about 66 inches high. The Olds comes is the tallest at 74.5 inches but it is among the widest at 75.4 inches wide.

The high center of gravity gives this ML500 a feeling of cornering. I wasn’t happy with the jerky gas pedal and it was constantly annoying.

Styling:

My youthful years and early appreciation of the automobile began at a time when styles were pretty outlandish. Rear fender fins reached to the sky and bulges, scoops, fender skirts and way out anything you can imagine adorned the cars in the 1950’s and 1960’s. But that helped you distinguish one car make from the other. Today cars seem to blend into one another in a cookie cutter fashion with a few exceptions. Land Rover marches to a different drummer and continues to embrace the square box design.

Fit and Finish:

First class as is the case with all Mercedes products.

Conveniences:

Mercedes provides a third headrest for the rear seating area but the bad news is that it blocks the rear view for the driver.

Cost:

Pricing is at the upper end of the range for this class vehicle. SUV’s generally are high profit products. I have driven them all and if the name Mercedes is not a must for your family, the Olds Bravada and the Merc Mountaineer deliver a great option for less money.

Consumer Recommendation:

You’ll want to look closely at the competition because the price difference may not be justified outside of the badge of distinction.

The Competition:

Acura MDX $36-42,000, Audi Allroad Quattro $40-41,000, BMW X5 $39-67,000, Infiniti QX4 $35-36,000, Land Rover Discovery $34-40,000, Lexus RX 330 $35-36,000, Mercury Mountaineer $29-37,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $33-35,000.

Good News:

Powerful, good resale, high snob appeal.

Bad News:

Poor gas performance, narrow door openings, jerky gas pedal and rough ride.

Standard Equipment:

5.0 liter 288 horsepower V8 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel traction control with downhill system, climate control, leather with Burl Walnut Wood trim, power windows with express up and down control, leather heated front seats, cruise control, remote central locking, reading lights, 4 12 volt outlets, 5 folding cup holders, stereo with cassette, GPS navigation system with DVD, 220 lb roof rack, trip computer with compass, Tele Aid calling communications system, front and side air bags, front and rear side window bags, child seat anchors, 4-wheel abs disc brakes, front and rear fog lights, anti theft system.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 17 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $45,350.

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