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

2001 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition (335)

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2001 Subaru Outback L.L. Bean Edition (335)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the Subaru Outback wagon AWD Luxury version of what used to be a pretty austere little car. Today it has grown into a good-sized commuter / small family, all purpose vehicle.

Outback’s aren’t just wagons anymore. The Limited Sedan sports a viscous limited-slip differential, protective lower body cladding, fog lights, raised heavy-duty 4-wheel independent suspension, and 7.3 inches of ground clearance.

It gives that cockpit feel where the driver is in control, like a pilot, and the co-pilot is just along for the ride and doesn’t appear to have access to many of the controls.

I was asked to compare the Altima with all its competition for a first time buyer and I found this Outback to be the top of the heap if All-wheel-drive capability would be needed, as the Subaru stands alone in the competition.

Handling & Performance:

Powered by a 3.0-liter H6 horizontally opposed 6-cylinder engine that produces 212-horsepower at 6000 rpm and 210 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. It also features a Variable Torque Distribution all-wheel-drive (VTD), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and all-wheel, all-speed traction control (TCS) for excellent stability and traction. It is powerful and brakes superbly. The ride is solid and has that substantial feel. Good cornering albeit not a road racer. It’s meant to be a small luxury car rather than a high performance car.

Styling:

Nice looking and unmistakenly a Subaru. It mixes that look of an SUV and a station wagon.

Fit and Finish:

Good attention to detail in fitting quality components.

Conveniences:

The L.L.Bean Edition’s interior features automatic climate control with ambient temperature gauge, an air filtration system along with lots more.

Cost:

You’ll pay dearly for all the improvements, but you get what you pay for, meaning a lot of high end design and most of the money is where it should be – in the engine and running gear.

Recommendation:

If you’re into a quality, smaller sized, all-purpose vehicle for a budding family on a budget, this will provide many years of trouble free transportation. It is well done but luxury is a relative term. This is a luxury car that does it all, albeit on a smaller scale.

The Competition:

Ford Escape $18,035-21,210, Honda CRV $18,750-22,800, Mazda Tribute $17,210-23,230, Toyota RAV4 $16,215-17,615.

Good News:

Outstanding gas mileage for the performance, quality all purpose car in one, economical to maintain,

Bad News:

Expensive up front cost for a small car, design flaw in that the visor hits the rearview mirror… I know, picky, picky, picky.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter H-6 (horizontally opposed) 212 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, all wheel drive, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, front and side air bags, heavy duty raised independent suspension, dual power moon roofs with sunshades, leather, 8-way power driver seat, heated front seats, stereo with cassette and CD player and 8 speakers with in-glass antennae, keyless entry with security system, wood and leather tilt steering wheel, air conditioning and filtration system, power windows, door locks and mirrors, cruise control.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $29,990

2001 Lincoln Navigator (334)

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2001 Lincoln Navigator (334)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the Lincoln Navigator 4X2, much like the Ford Excursion and in direct competition with Cadillac’s Escalade, in my opinion. Both are luxury cars equipped with all the things carmakers do to pamper us. I surely liked it as much as the Escalade and they are priced the same.

I’m not into big, but if you’re in the market for this class luxury vehicle to pull your boat to the river or hunter jumpers to the horse show it’s just what the doctor ordered.

Handling & Performance:

Rides like a well-equipped tank with soft suspension and lots of horsepower. On the other hand, it burns fuel at the same rate. You don’t buy one of these to zip around town. But if you’re on the road to a recreation spot with a good-sized family, this is ticket. I love it but couldn’t bring myself to use up all the resources for just the two of us. Optionally, Navigator can be equipped with an on-demand 4WD with a ground clearance of over eight inches, making it possible to take this luxury vehicle across almost any terrain and through almost any conditions. But I bet you’ll never need to do that. I like the speed sensitive power steering because I like to feel the road at highway speeds.

Styling:

Navigator joins the fast-growing luxury SUV market and is an elegant addition. The optional 17-inch aluminum chrome wheels add a nice sporty touch. Manufacturers finally got rid of the boxy square cornered design of the past decade or so and the softer lines are a welcomed change for most of the folks I’ve talked with.

Fit and Finish:

As expected from Lincoln, the Navigator comes standard with a luxurious interior, including leather upholstery, walnut accents, and dual bucket seats in the second row. An optional second-row split-bench seat increases seating capacity to eight. In addition to all the elegant touches, they are well assembled. American car makers have come a long way in this area, thanks to the mindful Japanese quality leaders for the past generation.

Conveniences:

Ford equips this Lincoln with a number pad under the door handle for keyless entry but I think it is an appendage, especially if you have the ever-handy remote keyless entry key fob.

Cost:

At a base retail price of $47,765 the Navigator 4WD and is pricey. But if you want the extra luxury, it is competitive with similar carmakers.

Recommendation:

Depending on your preference of manufacturer you’ll likely find GM’s Cad Escalade the closest to this Ford product. On balance, I lean toward the Standard of Excellence in Cadillac, but some folks wouldn’t own anything but a Ford product.

The Competition:

AM General Hummer $75,987-94,529, Cadillac Escalade $49,290, Chevrolet Tahoe $24,941-27,857, Ford Expedition $30,140-40,695, GMC Yukon Denali $46,150-47,650, Infiniti QX4 $34,150-35,550, Land Rover Range Rover $62,000-68,000, Lexus LX 470 $61,405, Mercedes M-Class $35,800-65,900, Toyota Land Cruiser $52,895.

Good News:

Speed sensitive power steering, 30-gallon fuel tank, lots of comfortable seating, elegant wood and leather steering wheel, authentic wood trim, nice lighted running boards, great for towing those rec vehicles.

Bad News:

Keypad on doors is a waste of money, terrible gas consumption – you need the 30-gallon fuel tank.

Standard Equipment:

5.4 liter 300 horsepower V8, 4 speed automatic trans, front and side air bags, power 4-wheel disc brakes, anti theft system, remote keyless entry with keypad on door, speed sensitive power steering, climate control, load leveling air suspension, power adjustable pedals, HD trailer tow package, 30 gallon fuel tank, bucket seats first and second row and third row fold-up bench seat, real wood trim, integrated illuminated running boards,

Gas Stats:

12 City and 17 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

12 City and 17 Highway MPG.

2001 Toyota Corolla LE (330)

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2001 Toyota Corolla LE (330)

Overview:

This week I drove the Toyota Corolla LE because we just sold a 1983 model with 120,000 miles plus, to a friend. And before it was sold, mom (82 years old) has been driving it for the past two years. How’s that for confidence in a car.

You can’t say more for any car that will endear it to buyers. I can’t say that for many cars and in fact, in the past weeks, when I tested the Kia Spectra it occurred to me that we have little history for any of the Korean products imported to this country. Don’t get me wrong, I liked the car, but naturally I wonder what the maintenance and operating cost will be over time? One thing you can say for Toyota products is that they have been with us for a long time now and have a history of quality. I’ve owned two Toyota Cressida’s and loved them both. Brother John and I owned a foreign car repair shop and we concluded that when I needed another car it should be a Toyota.

Handling & Performance:

Well, the Corolla is one of those fun to drive, zip around town little cars that’s not so small after all. And it has all the power you need in this price range car.

Styling:

I’ve been disappointed in today’s car styling because they are all so generic or cookie-cutter. Remember when you could look at a car and tell what year it was. Try that now. For the past few years Chrysler has been, perhaps, the best manufacturer when it comes to selling cars that are distinctive. You need only look to the extremely popular PT Cruiser and Plymouth Prowler as two examples and I for one hope there will be more to come. Ford is bringing back the original little Thunderbird and I’ll bet other manufacturers will follow suit.

Fit and Finish:

Typical Japanese quality. Good.

Conveniences:

Not a lot for the money. You have to boost the price by $4,000 to get all the things we’ve become accustomed to.

Cost:

A little pricey precisely because of the high demand for a quality car.

Recommendation:

I’ve driven all of the competition and I like them all. If price is a major component of your decision, you have a lot of good options to the more expensive Corolla.

The competition:

Chevrolet Prizm $13,995-16,060, Dodge Neon $12,715, Ford Focus $12,220-15,355, Honda Civic $12,760-16,910, Hyundai Elantra $12, 499, Kia Spectra $10,795-12,995, Nissan Sentra $11,649-14,899,  Saturn SL $10,570-12,895, Volkswagen Golf $14,900-17,900.

Good News:

Unquestionable quality, great fuel economy, comfortable, fun to drive.

Bad News:

Ho-hum styling.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter inline 4-cylinder engine, front wheel drive, 4-speed automatic trans, power steering, power front disc brakes, dual air bags, split fold down rear seat, tilt wheel, radio with cassette.

Gas Stats:

 30 City and 39 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $14,198 and if you add anti lock brakes, side airbags, cruise control, CD, moon roof, air conditioning, power windows and locks and dual power mirrors you’ll increase the price to $18,184.

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is movello@earthlink.net.

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Copyright © 2000 – Automotive Love Affair

2001 Kia Spectra GSX (329)

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2001 Kia Spectra GSX (329)

Overview:

This week the Kia Spectra GSX provided a comfortable ride for a short vacation to Arizona. I was pleasantly surprised because the trip took us about 1500 miles from Los Angeles, California to Arizona. We stayed in Scottsdale, a suburb of Phoenix, then on to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. After a nice breakfast at the El Tavor on the south rim we were off to Laughlin, Nevada. No, I didn’t leave my money in the casino’s there, in fact a won a few bucks. Boy that’s a first. Well, anyway, the last leg of our trip continued over historic route 66 through Kingman, Barstow, Needles, San Bernardino. I started humming that wonderful old song, “ I got my kicks on Route 66”, and took another trip down memory lane. But in the “good old days” I might be singing the advertising jingle, “See the USA, in your Chevrolet, America the greatest land of all… nothing can beat her, life is completer in a Chevy…and seeee it in your Chev – ro -lay”.

I found few flaws in this little Kia from Korea except for a slight clicking in the suspension while going over bumps and the remote trunk lever didn’t release all the way. Just an adjustment, but it does bug you. More importantly however, the cloth seats were well padded and formed to add comfort to such a long drive. That wasn’t the case in the Chevrolet Cavalier I tested recently. I took that one to Portland, Oregon and found myself shifting a lot and that detracts from the journey.

Handling & Performance:

The inline 4-cylinder engine is peppy.  In fact, in 5th gear with cruise on, I was cooking along at 80+ and it never wanted to kick off, but just pulled without hesitation. I’d like a longer 5th gear for better mileage and easier on the engine that labored at 4000 rpm at highway speeds. Although the car is small and a little light, it was stable at higher speeds, and very good gas mileage on the road. I got more than the EPA numbers and made it from Los Angeles to Scottsdale on less than a tank of gas.

Styling:

Styling is real nice, and has a flair and look of more expensive cars, much like the BMW 3 series. In any case it was more than the price tag would indicate. They also designed in a good-sized trunk that is really a hatchback. Pretty slick… I liked it.

Fit and Finish:

Generally it was very good for this price range car.

Conveniences:

There is no scanner function on the radio, which was a pain finding stations on the highway. I’d want to have that feature. Otherwise, for the dough, it is well appointed.

Cost:

Yes, you get what you pay for, but cars like this are great buys. You can literally have a new car for what you’d pay for a used upscale anything. If you don’t have an ego to feed, you can drive a Kia or any of the competition noted below and feed your face and family better. I wonder if my kids read any of my reviews? From what they drive, I can’t really tell, but then kids rarely take their parents advice, right?

Recommendation:

Next car you buy, Jenny and Mike, consider a Spectra or one of the other worthy opponents. Then you can have me over and throw a few more shrimp on the Barbie.

The competition:

Chevrolet Cavalier $13,160-16,365, Daewoo Nubira $11,399-14,799, Dodge Neon $12,715, Ford Focus $12,220-15,355, Honda Civic $12,760-16,910, Hyundai Elantra $12, 499, Mazda Protégé $12,215-15,315, Mitsubishi Mirage $11,877-14,717, Nissan Sentra $11,649-14,899, Plymouth Neon $12,715, Pontiac Sunfire $14,175-16,295, Saturn SL $10,570-12,895, Subaru Impreza $15,995-19,495, Toyota Corolla $12,568-13,383, Volkswagen Golf $14,900-17,900.

Good News:

Well-priced, good economy, comfortable ride even on long trips, new car at used car price.

Bad News:

This is one of the few cars built in Korea and the quality is yet to be established, and that may also lower the resale value.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter inline 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual trans, power front disc rear drum brakes, dual airbags, child safe rear door, cloth seats, split folding rear seat, remote mirrors, AM/FM radio and cassette, air conditioning, power door locks and windows, tilt steering. Options included: Stereo with CD player upgrade, cruise control, power mirrors, rear wiper.

Gas Stats:

23 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $12,995

Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is movello@earthlink.net.

2001 Oldsmobile Silhouette Premiere Edition (328)

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2001 Oldsmobile Silhouette Premiere Edition (328)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the Oldsmobile Silhouette and it’s sad that it also comes at a time when Olds, the granddaddy of automobile manufacturers, is being phased out of existence. I grew up with the make and I’ll miss it.

I suspect dad leaned toward Olds because it was one of the early players he grew up with. He was from the same old school and when he wasn’t driving in those grand old machines, he was flying around in those other new inventions – airplanes of the early 1900’s. They were the pioneers who spent cold nights working on all those new gadgets coming out of the industrial revolution. Those must have been exciting and exhilarating times. I can visualize them driving around sharing dirt roads with horses and buggies. They must have impressed the ladies with their antics and surely would have been admired by every little boy they passed.

Today, the technological age keeps those pioneer spirited people indoors with their fancy new mega gigahertz, gigabite; rip roaring computers with five-foot flat screens hanging on the wall to impress other computer nerds who also rarely see the light of day. I’ve been one of those computer guys for 25 years and I love it, but the mystique of the past is somehow more romantic and fun to consider.

Some of us still hang onto remnants of the past and I guess it’s time to saddle up and go for a ride in the backcountry, cut a few cords of wood and feel like a man again. I’ll do that right after I finish mending those coral fences.

Continuing down memory lane, I think I’ll also miss Olds when I think back to those days when I’d stop to body surf at Laguna on my way back to the San Diego Naval Base in my black 1949 Olds 88 hard top coupe. For the life of me I can’t see why GM decided to dump this history-making car. Oh well.

Handling & Performance:

This Olds, like other Minivans, is soft riding and comfortable. It has all the power you’ll need in this class of utility family car, unless you’ll be pulling a boat or have a need to go off road. I can’t think of a better car for families and all those mom’s who have to shuttle the kids to and fro.

Styling:

I really felt at home driving this Silhouette – like an old friend. But it helps when you feel good about what you spend your hard earned money for. This is a very pretty and classy car you can drive to any occasion.

Fit and Finish:

As good as they get.

Conveniences:

This thing is loaded and of course the price reflects it. The entertainment center is wonderful to keep the kids and grandkids occupied while you listen to the radio or simply talk about things they don’t care about anyway. The power sliding door on the passenger side is indispensable. There is no question I’d find a way to justify the extra money to have this convenience, especially for the children. Another, not so necessary item is the sensor that audibly lets you know when you’re getting close to objects while backing up.

Cost:

Too much but, relative to the more popular SUV’s, you’ll get much better gas mileage, and it’s all around a better family car.

Recommendation:

Before you spend all the money, think about whether you really need all the gadgets. If money is no object, buy this super loaded family van. I’ve driven all but the Ford Windstar, and Pontiac Montana, which I have scheduled. I was very impressed with the Honda Odyssey, the Toyota Sienna, and as much as I like Toyota products, I still have a love affair with Olds. My niece opted to buy the Odyssey for her young family but didn’t get the remote sliding passenger door. I think she already regrets not including that feature.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Venture $20, 975-30,315, Chrysler Town & Country $24,430-37,510,Dodge Caravan $19,160-32,235, Ford Windstar $19,910-33,455, Honda Odyssey $23,900-26,400, Mazda MPV $20,675-26,280, Pontiac Montana $24,180-31,875, Toyota Sienna $23,905-28,436.

Good News:

It’s the last of the product line so these will be classics; great look and ride, the best family car on the market, tons of conveniences.

Bad News:

It’s the last of the product line and you have to wonder about maintenance, it’s a little pricey, even though competitive with the rest of the field.

Standard Equipment:

3.4 liter V6 185 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, front and side airbags, anti-locking brakes, traction control, power programmable door locks, child security power sliding side door, Onstar communication system, rear parking aid, entertainment package with LCD monitor, video cassette player and headphones, stereo with cassette and CD, air conditioning front and rear, keyless remote entry and theft system, alarm, lock and lighting system, battery rundown protection, tint glass, fog lamps, leather seating, auto leveling, touch control audio on tilt steering wheel, power seats, windows and mirrors, computer system.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP  $26,290-33,225 / the Premier Edition totaled out at $34,375

2001 Pontiac Aztek (327)

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2001 Pontiac Aztek (327)

Overview:

This week I had the opportunity to drive a very different Pontiac – the new Aztek. It’s based on the Montana minivan. Some folks think it’s ugly, others say it’s futuristic. In short, they either love or hate what Pontiac calls a Sport Recreation Vehicle (SRV). It’s a cross between an SUV and a Van and targeted at younger buyers with active lifestyles.

There are a lot of options on this Aztek to suit the buyer’s needs and wants. You can opt for bucket seats in front with a choice of a three-passenger flip/fold 50/50-split seat or dual captain chairs in back. There is a rear cargo tray that can be securely latched in place inside the vehicle, rolled-out over the tailgate for convenient loading and unloading, or completely removed. There is a reconfigurable rear cargo net system, with two side-panel nets that carry up to 35 pounds each. Two larger cross-vehicle nets restrain up to 200 pounds of cargo (100 pounds per net) and in conjunction with the floor mounted anchor hooks, the net system can be reconfigured in 22 different ways.

Handling & Performance:

Aztek is front-wheel drive, but later in the year an all-wheel-drive system is scheduled for release. It’s referred to as Versatrak, but it’s not suited for serious off-road driving. Because the Aztek has wider track than the Jeep Grand Cherokee, for example, its stance means better control and stability.

All Aztek vehicles are powered by a smooth, strong 3.4-liter OHV V6 185 horsepower engine.

Styling:

Personal taste should be all that counts and that is particularly true with this Aztek since opinions varied widely.  The interior is roomy and utility conscious with things like the center console that is a removable 12-can cooler. The seats are a little bizarre with graphic design that is a little much. The cargo area has a pullout tray for easy loading. My test vehicle did not come with the optional camping package that includes a pop-out tent, air mattress and integrated air pump. It fits over the rear half of the Aztek, and allows you to leave the hatch and tailgate open.

All Aztek’s have other cool things like lantern hooks on the liftgate, four 12-volt power outlets, rear tailgate has cupholders and is molded to form two seating areas. You can also have audio controls in the rear that make the Aztek’s tailgate readymade for pregame parties or camping.

When you remove the easy release back seats you have 93.5 cubic feet of cargo space. There are a dozen securely attached cargo anchors and storage compartments built into the side trim and tailgate to control loose gear. Another nifty option for this GT is a pair of utility packs that nest in each front door trim panel, to provide for stowing a cell phone, camera, CD player or other gear. It’s easily removable so it can be carried with you as you leave the vehicle.

The hiking package includes backpacks that attach to the backs of the front seats when not in use. Another package includes a rooftop or interior bike rack that hold two cycles.

I didn’t ask if they come with a Swiss Army Knife.

Fit and Finish:

Not elegant materials, but well assembled.

Cost:

Not bad considering the versatile options that make this a rather unique option.

Recommendation:

If you have a need for a camping vehicle, this is a good option to an SUV. It’s not as low to the ground as a minivan and not as high as an SUV. But the seating is high which gives the great visibility people love in the very popular SUV’s.

The competition:

Audi A4 Avant $27,290-31,990, Chrysler PT Cruiser $15,935 (not true since they go for about $30,000), Ford Escape $17,645-20,820, Honda CR-V $18,750-22800, Kia Sportage $14,395-19,095, Subaru Forester $20,295-22,895, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18,399-22,999, Toyota RAV4 $16,215-17,615.

Good News:

Well-priced, good mileage, comfortable, several configurations to make it perhaps the most versatile recreation vehicle on the market today.

Bad News:

Sways in the wind, arguably the ugliest new release for 2001.

Standard Equipment:

3.4 liter V6 engine, 4 speed auto trans, front wheel drive, dual and side air bags, 4-wheel antilock brakes, remote keyless entry, battery rundown protection, roof rack, bucket seats, air conditioning, power mirrors, windows and locks, AM/FM with cassette and CD, tilt steering, cruise control, removable console/ cooler, information center.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,435.

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier 2-door Z24 (326)

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2001 Chevrolet Cavalier 2-door Z24 (326)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 Coupe subcompact. And boy did I turn this car everyway but loose. I put it through tough paces for two weeks and over 2,000 miles. Long trips can be telling, and if you do drive long distances, you’ll want to consider an extended test drive.

I found myself squirming around to keep my legs from falling asleep. Not real comfortable when you stop only for gas. And at 28 mpg, you can go a long way without stopping. This five seater is pretty basic and simple with decent fit and finish for an economy car. It’s a nice driver with the exception of the front seats that need more padding.

If a 2-door is what you’re looking for this Cavalier fits right in with the competition and a good option, especially since it has been the top selling car for GM. Cavalier comes in five trims: a base sedan and coupe, the LS sedan for more equipment, the sporty Z24 coupe that I tested and a Z24 convertible. The base engine is a 2.2-liter 115-horsepower 4-cylinder coupled to a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. The Z24 has the 150-hp 2.4-liter DOHC engine and it’s optional in the LS.

My long trip took me through snow, ice, mud and dirt roads, and I began to bond with this hunk of metal and rubber and fabric. I’m not saying I fell in love, but it treated me right and was always there for me. Overall, it was a nice automobile.

Handling & Performance:

It is built low to the ground and small enough to zip around town with ease and in traffic the 150 horses make this little car very responsive. Perhaps the smaller engine would strain your nerves in passing situations, but this larger engine configuration was great. And finally, it’s fun to drive.

Styling:

Personal taste is always important, but I think you’d agree it is not a very daring design and is even a bit commonplace, much like most of the competition noted here.

Fit and Finish:

Some say it is not put together very well. I disagree. For this price level car, it is put together just fine thanks. After all, it is a Chevrolet and that has passed muster with buyers for 12 of the past 16 years as a top seller. That has to say something. Obviously a lot of folks agree that it is assembled well. On the bumpy roads I never heard a rattle or squeak and that means a lot to me.

Cost:

With all the options on this test vehicle, the price is a little high. I suspect that has more to do with the fact that it has earned it stripes over more than a decade, and people have been willing to pay for all the conveniences.

Recommendation:

Let’s not mince words; there is so much competition I would be hard pressed to pick a hands down winner. I really like the Neon and the Corolla in this category and the only two I haven’t driven are the Ford Focus and the VW Golf. You’ll have to drive this car to see why so many have bought it for so many years.

The Competition:

Dodge Neon $12,715, Ford Focus $12,125-15,260, Honda Civic $12,760-16,910, Hyundai Elantra $12,499, Hyundai Tiburon $14,499, Mazda Protégé $12,215-15,315, Nissan Altima $15,140-20,390, Pontiac Sunfire $14,175-16,295, Saturn SC $12,535-15,645, Subaru Impreza $15,995-19,495, Toyota Corolla $12,568-13,383, Volkswagen Golf $14,900-17,900.

Good News:

Good power from this inline 4-cylinder, roomy for a two door, tight feel and a quiet ride.

Bad News:

I’d have expected better gas mileage; seats need more padding for those long trips, poor city mpg, more money than I think it should be.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic trans, sport suspension, dual airbags, 4-wheel antilock brakes with front disc and rear drum, remote keyless entry, power windows and door locks, theft alarm, fog lamps, air conditioning, defoggers, stereo with CD, tilt wheel, tinted glass, cloth interior, cruise control.

Gas Stats:

21 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $17,765

2001 GMC Sierra Turbo Diesel Crew Cab (325)

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2001 GMC Sierra Turbo Diesel Crew Cab (325)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2001 GMC Sierra Turbo Diesel Crew Cab. This bad boy is impressive with a 6.6-liter diesel engine that produces 300 horsepower and 520 foot pounds of torque at 1800 rpm. It’s the Duramax 6600 turbo-diesel V8.

I have been looking for a diesel for the ranch and pulling a 5th wheel and I’m torn between this and the Dodge Ram. Heavy-duty truck users like my brother who has a dump truck business leans to the Cummins Diesel engine and therefore the Dodge line. That’s what powers his Peterbuilt trucks and they are the grand daddy’s of diesel engine manufacturer’s.

On balance, GM diesel engines are built by the grand daddy of car and truck companies- GM, and they have been a top car company for a hundred years. Brother John says it’s just a V8 made into a diesel, where his Cummins is an inline six cylinder made to be a diesel. He routinely hauls two ton of hay in a one ton rated truck and pulls rocky dirt road (mud and snow in winter) hills up to the ranch.

Well, at the end of the day, you’ll make a decision based on what purpose you have for the vehicle and your preference of companies. The good news is that in this heavy-duty truck market there is really only three players as noted below. GM, Ford and Chrysler. You could flip a coin as I did and it was heads for GM, tails for Chrysler and on-edge for Ford. I’ve owned Ford trucks but I tend to lean toward GM products until I began to look closely at heavy-duty needs. Now I’m not sure. Dodge trucks have a great reputation and a die hard following who will tell you this is one tough truck. I’d be interested in your comments.

Handling & Performance:

Fast is my first thought and quiet is second and comfort is third. I had just come out of the Cad Catera and my tousch told me instantly that this “Truck” had more comfortable seating than the Cad. Thanks GMC, and please talk with your buddies over at Cadillac about how to make a seat comfortable.

If you believe what GMC says about the competition, this 300 horsepower @ 3100 rpm and 520 lb.-ft. of torque at a low 1800 rpm, produces 65-70 more horsepower and 20-70 more torque than its competitors. And they say it has segment-leading acceleration at any load level.

Styling:

You get what you get because there is little difference in looks. They used to all be square looking and now they’ve rounded out the corners that I prefer now that I’ve gotten used to the look. They’ll probably stay close in styling because these truck builders don’t have the balls to be very different.

Fit and Finish:

Very nice. Trucks are as good as cars these days.

Cost:

Terrible if you’ll drive it for transportation, and great if you have a “work horse” need.

Recommendation:

Match the truck to the task at hand. If you’ll be pulling a 40-foot trailer or 5th wheel, be sure to get the long bed diesel since short bed is not recommended. You’ll pull loads with ease and get much better fuel economy from the diesel. The owners I’ve talked with agree that the gas engines are much poorer on economy than a comparable diesel engine and maintenance is less too on the diesel. In fact, they will run trouble free for twice the miles of the gas engine. If you expect to operate in snow or muddy conditions as brother John does, 4WD is a must.

Well, there are only three competitors so naturally you’ll want to drive them all.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD $21,469-36,017, Dodge Ram 2500 $20,995-26,265, Ford F-250 Super Duty $20,535-32,355.

Good News:

Powerful, quieter than most diesels (78 decibels of sound at cold-idle startup, or about half the next quietest Ford competitor), nice interior and spacious Crew Cab, PTO (power take off) capability,

Bad News:

Cummins Diesel is arguably better than the GM diesel in the GM brand.

Standard Equipment:

6.6 liter Duramax Turbo Diesel 300 horsepower and 520 ft. lbs. Torque, V8 engine, Allison five-speed automatic transmission, Factory-installed OnStar communications and security system on SLT, Air conditioning, Stereo with CD, cargo lamp, dual and side air bags, power mirrors, windows and door locks, 4-wheel antilock brakes, remote keyless entry, leather 6 way power seats and cruise control.

Gas Stats:

City and Highway MPG not available.

Pricing:

MSRP  $43,294 (includes the Diesel engine and trans for about $6,000).

2001 Cadillac Catera Sport (324)

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2001 Cadillac Catera Sport (324)

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2001 Cadillac Catera Sport built in Ruesselsheim, Germany. I believe it was built for Europe and it should stay there. It just isn’t a Cadillac by American standards.

My design engineer friend Merkel commented that for a Cadillac it’s a great Pontiac. Ditto, Merkel. But I guess I felt it was more like the Oldsmobile line.

I simply don’t believe American buyers will accept this knock down, knock off Cad as a substitute. It doesn’t have the usual Cad feel and comfort. We took it on a trip to the central California coast and we found ourselves shifting around in the seats after just a couple of hours. I’ve owned several Cadillac’s and have a little more experience with them than most cars that I have the pleasure of testing. Sorry, GM, I can’t give it a high rating for a Cad and that comes from one who has a love affair with the Cad STS. It is perhaps my most favorite car in the world, for what it is. If I’m feeling my oats, Ferrari will do just fine, thanks.

Aside from not liking it as a Cadillac, it is very nice as a car and if you strip off the badge and thus reduce the price five plus thousand, it would fly.

Handling & Performance:

The car rides well with a solid feel. 0-60 mph is about 8 seconds and I never wanted for passing power. If you don’t like stiff steering, this car will bother you.

Styling:

Typical and commonplace in a cookie cutter fashion, and not up to my view of Cadillac, and I suspect you’ll feel the same. Let me know.

Fit and Finish:

As good as they get for today’s technology.

Conveniences:

Great, but you pay, just as you would in a BMW or Audi, etc.

Cost:

Too much because you’re paying for the name.

Recommendation:

GM is trying to appeal to the young exec and there is a lot of great competition to chose from. Look at the list below and you’ll have a good start. If you like Cadillac as much as I do, see your dealer and you might be able to make a great deal on this made for Europe scaled down version of a quality product.

The Competition:

Acura TL $28,550-30,550, Audi A4 $24,540-30,990, BMW 3-Series $26,990-42,400, Chrysler 300M $29,640, Infiniti I30 $29,465-31,540, Lexus IS 300 $30,805, Lincoln LS $31,665-35,695.

Good News:

Handles well, nice ride, especially responsive at higher road speeds, roomy interior seating and good size trunk.

Bad News:

Cruise controls are different from typical GM and not as easy to use, not up to Cadillac standards, pricey because of the badge and all the features.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter V6, 4-speed auto trans, speed sensitive steering, level control, cruise control, dual and side air bags, ABS brakes, keyless entry, daytime and sentinel lights, traction control, power windows and door locks, On-Star system, leather seats, power mirrors, climate control, 8-way power heated front seats with memory on driver seat, lumbar control, Bose sound system with cassette and CD player, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, theft deterrent system, garage door opener, xenon headlights and sunroof.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $36,423

2000 Hummer 4-passenger Open Top (323)

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2000 Hummer 4-passenger Open Top (323)

Overview:
Why would anyone want to own a Hummer? A. Because it’s practical, B. Because it’s economical, C. Because it’s a diesel, D. None of the above. – Answer: D. None of the above. Is that your final answer? Well there is no final answer, because there are many reasons to own a motor vehicle and this is the ultimate adaptation of the popular SUV with off-road capability.

But because of the purchase price it’s only suited to the rich and foolish? I heard Arnold Schwartzeneger say, “I’m a Hummer kind of guy”. Well, I guess that speaks volumes about the kind of guy who’d buy one. And before you say that’s a sexist comment, this is one of those rare instances where 100% of buyers ARE men. The price of his toys just went up.

If you like the idea of being one of the few who has what you have there isn’t any comparison or competition. All you have to do is fork over about $100,000 to be the proud owner. You’ll sit about 6 inches higher than most SUV’s, in a vehicle nearly 2 feet wider, and this “bad boy” also weighs about double the Range Rover, for example, as it tips the scales at 6640 lbs.  Ground clearance is also double at 16 inches. That doesn’t sound like much, but it allows you to climb over larger obstacles than anything else can.

The first time I tested one of these Hummers a couple of years back I got stuck in mud up to my tousch. Every vehicle has its limitations which I failed to consider until that humiliating off road course experience. Solution: buy it with a winch. Perhaps the illusion of being invincible is because this Hummer is the civilian version of the military Humvee (HMMWV, for High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle), which was made famous in the Gulf War – or operation Desert Storm. The street legal Hummer is available in four trims: Hard Top 2-Door, Hard Top 4-Door, Open Top, and Wagon.

Handling & Performance:

Hummer is a military jeep with an almost car like interior. It’s wide for stability, but too wide to be useful in tight places. It is more at home on the wide-open ranges. The turbo is wonderful with enough poop to go from 0-60 mph in 19.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 82 mph. It is amazingly easy to drive on the highway and has good power steering necessary for tight spaces, which everything becomes for a vehicle this wide. I noticed a lot of “Play” in the steering wheel and don’t know why, but it reminded me of the old days when that was very common.

Styling:

This Hummer is Government Issue (GI) wartime functional and thus has that look, even without the gun turret. That’s what the appeal is all about. Finally a car you’ll feel safe driving through South Central Los Angeles to get to a USC football game while not being out of place in Beverly Hills where you’re likely to find the Hummer climbing over speed bumps with ease. Hummer fits the screen image of Sylvester and Arnold and is in sharp contrast to the usual Porsche, Mercedes and Rolls or Bentley basic transportation.

Fit and Finish:

Military, except the interior is spruced up with leather and wood trim.

Conveniences:

You gotta understand, for someone who drove a duce and a half in the military, this Beverly Hills cruiser is embarrassingly appointed. Leather seating, stereo with cassette and CD player, power windows, etc. But on the other hand, you’d better not put stuff on the passenger seats and start to drive, because if you need it, you have to stop and climb over the snow covered peaks of the center console. They should make a communication system standard equipment to overcome the noise level, too.

Cost:

Too much unless you’re planning a war, then the gun turret will hike the price even more. Cost to maintain is unknown, but it consumes diesel fuel like you’d expect from a Pentagon product and at prices as obscene as gasoline.

Recommendation:

There is no recommendation other than if you have the dough and want to be different, just go for it. Even if I could afford one to get away from it all, hiking or horseback would be more my style and the feed bill is less. The competition is almost laughable, because there is nothing on the road that comes close to the most unique utility vehicle available.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Suburban $25,921-30,780, Ford Excursion $34,245-40,985, GMC Yukon XL $35,752-39,639, Jeep Wrangler $14,890-22,435, Land Rover Range Rover $62,000-68,000, Lexus LX 470 $61,405, Lincoln Navigator $43,645-47,395.

Good News:

Versatile, off-road capable in open terrain, auxiliary fuel tank, unique.

Bad News:

Poor visibility, oversize inconvenience, huge but cramped interior, expensive to own and operate, need for auxiliary fuel tank, small cargo area and noisy.

Standard Equipment:

6.5 liter V8 GM Turbo Diesel engine that produces 195 horsepower with 430 lb-ft of torque, 4-speed automatic transmission, air conditioning, full-time 4-wheel drive and 4-wheel independent suspension, inboard mount power disc brakes, power steering, power door locks, remote entry, power windows, AM/FM Stereo cassette, 25 gal. Fuel tank and 17 gal. auxiliary fuel tank.

Gas Stats:

Not available, but I estimated under 10 mpg.

Pricing:

MSRP $79,065 plus the option package to include tire inflation system, cruise control, driveline protection, brush guards, trailer towing package, run flat tire system, power mirrors, heated windshield, power rearview mirrors, for a total of $89,936.

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