Tag Archives: 2002

2002 Infiniti Q45 Luxury Sedan (399)

29-05-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we look at the Infiniti Q45 Luxury Sedan. This car with the Premium Package will do as much and more for you than any car out there, except maybe a James Bond car.

You can razzle-dazzle me with high tech any day, and finally all this computer stuff is “user friendly” (to use an overused term). What it really means is that you don’t need your kids to show you how to use the stuff.

The Q continues to be a contender in the Luxury Field since being introduced in 1990, even though styling is still a little bland. It is elegant but unexciting. It simply is not a \”head turner\” kind of car, but I doubt people who’ll spend this kind of money for transportation want or crave attention.

General Info:

Parts – Japan

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Mid-size

Cars: – G35, I35, Q45, QX4

Handling & Performance:

At 3,800 pounds the Q45 does 0-60 mph in about 6 seconds. All-independent suspension provides a smooth ride. Rear-wheel-drive allows better balance and handling. And it does all with a near sporty performance level because of the various control features like Traction and Dynamic controls, ABS and Electric brake force distribution.

Styling:

New and better.

Fit and Finish:

Very nice, clean and elegant.

Conveniences:

A lot is standard and adequate from yesterdays technology, but for the Intelligent Cruise control, Navigation system, rear view monitor, rear seat controls for audio, air and heat, heated reclining seats and door shades, collectively referred to as the “Premium Package” you’ll have to pop for $9,000 more than the MSRP noted below. Ouch. Other options include voice commands for the audio, climate control and navigation system settings. Adaptive Cruise Control, which uses laser sensors, the brakes and throttle to maintain a set distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. You can also have 17-inch run-flat tires capable of being driven 50 miles after a puncture at speeds up to 55 mph.

Cost:

Even considering the premium package for $9,000, high tech has taken this car to a new level for luxury sedans. Total price with just about every gadget offered by any manufacturer in 2002, comes to about $60 grand.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re in the market for a true luxury car, this has to be among the cars you test drive. I was impressed; I think you will be too.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

I don’t believe drivers really want a manual shift mode on their automatic transmission. Why waste the money for an appendage?

The Competition:

(4) Infiniti Q45 $50,500, (3) Acura RL $43-45,000, (6) Audi A8 $62-67,000, (2) BMW 7 Series $68-72,000, (1) Cadillac Seville $44-50,000, (7) Jaguar XJ Series $56-78,000, (5) Lexus LS 430 $54,405, (8) Mercedes Benz S-Class $72-115,000.

Good News:

Great high tech features that are actually beneficial, luxurious, fast, good gas performance.

Bad News:

Confusing controls take some getting used to,

Standard Equipment:

4.5 liter 340 horsepower V8 engine, 5-speed auto trans, independent suspension, speed sensitive power steering, 4-wheel power ABS brakes, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, cruise control, auto headlights, power / tilt sunroof, power mirrors, voice recognition, computer, tire pressure monitor, audio system with cassette and 6-disc CD changer, analog clock, leather, power seats with driver memory, genuine wood trim and leather and wood steering wheel and shift knob, power windows, dual zone climate control, HomeLink transceiver, dual front and side air bags, rear side airbags, child seat anchors, vehicle immobilizer system and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $50,500.

2002 Cadillac Escalade EXT (398)

22-05-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week’s ride was a great selection for a short vacation. Over the river and through the woods to grandmothers house I went in a 2002 Cadillac Escalade EXT AWD (all wheel drive) pickup truck. Boy I never thought I’d be talking about a pickup truck from Cadillac. But few things in life surprise me any longer.\

In any case this is really a Chevrolet Avalanche in a tuxedo. I rather think it is the Darth Vader of auto design, especially in black.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – Mexico

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – CTS, DeVille, Eldorado, Escalade, Escalade EXT, Seville.

The Escalade EXT combines a five-passenger sport-utility vehicle with the functionality of a pickup truck that is loaded with comfort, convenience and luxury features.

Handling & Performance:

Steering is a little loose, but I got used to it in a few days. But the ride was so comfortable that I soon forgot any bitching and complaining. I drove 700 miles without stopping except to wring out a kidney and get gas. I have made that drive on several occasions and I have to tell you I was noticeably more rested than when I drove a lesser vehicle. All wheel drive is nice but with that feature and 345 horsepower translates into lousy gas mileage.

Styling:

My sister fell in love with it and said when she gets paid she will buy one and that was before I let her drive it. She flat was in love with the look, and of course, the smooth ride.

Fit and Finish:

Very well done but I did think the steering wheel controls were recessed a little too far.

Conveniences:

Cadillac is always expected to be well equipped and they didn’t disappoint me. On the other hand there is no free lunch and you pay for all the gadgets. Ok, so I have come to like OnStar communications. I was about to run out of gas and I simply pushed the blue button and wa-la Mark comes on the line as polite as you please and guides me to the nearest gas station. And none to soon, I might add. I also have come to like the rear ultrasonic sensing feature and the smart / intelligent cruise control I have had on some products.

I doubt this will ever be used as a pickup truck and even if you pick up your own hay for the horses I don’t think you’d stack a ton of hay on this beauty, as I know I do on a Dodge Ram 3500 dual-ee. Somehow it just doesn’t seem dignified for such an elegant gent. But it’s nice to know you could if you wanted to.

Cost:

Much too much for a slim budget, but for those with a need and lots of green, they can easily justify this kind of pickup truck.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you can justify the cost to buy and operate this Escalade EXT it’s the most high-class versatile full size pickup truck you can buy today. And if you appreciate a luxury ride you won’t be disappointed. Try it; you’ll like it.

The Competition:

Cadillac Escalade EXT, Lincoln Blackwood $51,785, Chevrolet Avalanche $31-36,000.

Good News:

Unique styling and adaptability, super smooth ride.

Bad News:

VERY poor gas performance.

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter 345 horsepower V8, Converti-Cab with mid-gate panel expanding cargo bed from 5’3” to 8’1”, 4-speed automatic trans, engine, lockable cargo bed with 3-piece rigid cargo bed cover, leather seating, Zebrano wood trim, power seats, heated cushions and backrests, 2nd row split fold down seats, OnStar Communications system with one year service included, Boise music system with cassette and in dash 6-disc CD player, rear seat audio with earphones, climate control, power widows and locks, power folding heating mirrors, 24 hour roadside assistance, all wheel drive with torque split, auto level control, StabiliTrak and road sensing suspension, 4-wheel ABS disc brake system, road sensing suspension, auto level control, traction control, towing package with harness, dual front and side airbags, ultrasonic rear park assist.

Gas Stats:

12 City and 15 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $49,245.

2002 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (397)

15-05-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This weeks Corvette Z06 brought a lot of looks and oooh’s and aaah’s but at the end of the day it’s just an old fashioned muscle car. Wow, did I say that? Yea, I guess that’s the truth.

Sure I was looking forward to testing this car, but it did remind me of my youth and how we were always impressed with brute force and big block V8’s. But that’s all there was then. That was the best there was. But since those good old days American Car makers can’t seem to abandon the old technology and move European and Japanese engine technology that uses variable valve timing, for example. American power plants simply have failed to mature.

You only need to drive European and Japanese sports cars to appreciate the maturity available in today’s auto world. Two that come to mind are the Acura NSX and the Porsche Boxster S. Although they are also two seater cars, unlike the Vette they are both mid-engine cars, with better control characteristics. They are wonderful performers too, but with a lot more class.

Oh, you’re right, and a lot more money. You got me. I agree that you get a better price to performance ratio in the Corvette. But that is true of most domestic versus import cars, and why I almost always lean toward American built “anything”.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – USA

Class: – Two Seater

Cars: – Coupe, Convertible, and Z06.

Handling & Performance:

0-60 in 4 seconds will flat give you a generous adrenalin rush. Wow says it all. Even in the rain I always felt confident the car would keep me out of trouble, thanks to the “Active Handling” system that controls driver over steering. Weight distribution has also been improved by incorporating the transmission and differential in the rear axle.

It takes the corners like it were on rails, but with a much more bouncy ride than I care for. And if money weren’t an issue I’d surely lean toward buying the Boxster S for a little more and if I were loaded (cash) the Porsche 911 or the Ferrari would get the nod.

Styling:

This is the best Corvette design since its introduction in 1953. That was the cats meow then and appealed to the macho gear head guys in high school. The Ford Thunderbird of the day was a girl’s car. Corvette has earned a place in the world as perhaps the most recognizable and distinctive looking “All American” car in the world. And when you go to Europe don’t bother looking for Porsche on the autobahn. You are more likely to see a Corvette. After all, over there it is an “Import” sport car from America.

Fit and Finish:

Much improved from the typical Corvette of the past that tended to be a bucket of bolts shortly after you drove it off the showroom floor. The big engines just seem to shake them to death. And what do you expect from engines and drive trains that are not very well balanced. You only need to crank one up and set at idle and listen to your teeth chatter. Not so in the Boxster or NSX. They are smooth and well mannered.

Conveniences:

Storage spots are limited because, after all, it is a two seater, but the trunk / cargo area is good relative to other two seaters. But when it comes to standard features Corvette beats out the competition that cost 2-3 times more.

Cost:

Unquestionably the best for a high performance sports cars.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re into performance and want to replace your pacemaker, this will do the trick. Corvette comes in Coupe/T-Top, Z06 or Convertible. And let’s get real; money is a factor for 99% of us so if you want high performance this is, hands down, the best buy.

I have driven all except the Ferrari 360 and Lotus Esprit. The only Ferrari products I’ve driven were the older GTB and Daytona, so I left those blank in the rating below. This subjective ranking factors in price very heavily.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Although you’ve tightened up the bailing wire a bit and added more chewing gum to hold it together and quiet it down, more fine-tuning is needed. I understand from engineers that Corvette doesn’t balance the crank and fly wheel and thus they run rougher than others.

The Competition:

(1) Corvette Z06 $41-50,000, (2) Acura NSX $89,000, (3) Dodge Viper $72,000, () Ferrari 360 $141-171,000, () Lotus Esprit $89,000, (4) Porsche 911 $68-180,000.

Good News:

Far and away the best price to performance ratio of any sports car in the world.

Bad News:

Still loosy-goosy, hard ride and rough engine at idle.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter 405 horsepower V8 engine, 6-speed manual trans, active handling, traction control, power ABS disc brakes, speed sensitive power steering, dual air bags, remote keyless entry and theft deterrent system, power mirrors, stereo with CD player, climate control, head up display (tach and speedometer projected on windshield), cruise control, leather, tilt leather wrapped wheel, power seat, windows and locks and remote fuel and deck lid opening.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $49,705.

2002 Infiniti I35 Sedan (396)

08-05-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I revisited Infiniti and the I35 luxury sedan. Sometimes I think I’m going through Auto Menopause with all the cars I drive. I don’t have hot flashes but “Mood Swings” are wild.

Consider the lineup over the past several weeks: Infiniti QX4 SUV with smart cruise control, Saab 9-3 Viggen, Cadillac DTS with Night Vision and XM Radio, Saturn Vue SUV, Jaguar XJ8 Vanden Plas elegant and poised, Corvette Z06 knock your socks off rocket, Infiniti Q45 super quiet luxury, Porsche Boxster S sophisticated vehicle that will take you to the moon.

It’s a tough job but someone has to do it.

Anyway, the mood was ok in this I35 but I got to tell you that Porshe Boxster S made me fall in love all over again. But then, it’s a two seater and nowhere for the kids and other pets. The guys will wonder if mom will take a practical station wagon for the second car and the gals will say I’ll get the Jaguar for me and dad can have a Saturn.

We’ll settle the argument and buy two Infiniti I35’s for the price of the Boxster S. – one for mom and the other for dad.

Infiniti has a delightful lineup in my opinion. The Q45 is super luxury and the QX4 fills the SUV slot. But if you don’t care to spend that much this I35 is a great family sedan. I liked it a lot. But when I want to get my heart started, the Corvette and Porsche are great pacemakers.

General Info:

Parts – Japan

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Midsize Luxury Sedan

Cars: – G35, I35, Q45, QX4

Handling & Performance:

Very stable with power to spare and respectable gas mileage for a luxury sedan that handles so well.

Styling:

All three Infiniti sedans are slight notches apart and although conservatively styled they are pleasing to the eye.

Fit and Finish:

Typically good Japanese quality.

Conveniences:

Loaded with standard equipment.

Cost:

Priced well considering the quality overlap you get from the likes of Q45 and QX4. However, you can bump up the price significantly if you opt for the navigation system, sunroof, sport package and cold weather features. Those additions increase the price to $35,000 or roughly $6,000 more.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you like what Nissan produces, you have a selection of price and functionality for today’s life styles. All the Infiniti products are super in my opinion. I only have two thumbs and both are up.

However, the competition noted here is awesome and the most impressive I’ve seen in a long time. You have so much to choose from. I’d have a tough time deciding because I love ‘em all. They are so close in price and standard features I have listed them in order of my personal preference. I haven’t tested the Lexus IS300.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Not enough difference in the “I35” and 2003 G35 models. I haven’t tested the G35 but I doubt both are needed in the lineup.

The Competition:

(4) Infiniti I35 $28,750, (9) Acura TL $29-33,000, (8) Audi A4 $25-33,000, (5) BMW 3 Series $27-42,000, (10) Jaguar X Type $30-36,000, (2) Lexus ES 300 $31,505, () Lexus IS 300 $29-31,000, (13) Lincoln LS $33-41,000, (12) Mazda Millenia $28-32,000, (3) Mercedes Benz C-class $25-50,000, (6) Mitsubishi Diamante $26-28,000, (7) Oldsmobile Aurora $32-35,000, (11) Saab 9-3 $28-45,000, (1) Volvo S60 $27-34,000.

Good News:

Lots of stuff to choose from, this I35 is not a standout but it is a strong competitor.

Bad News:

…becomes good news when you can\’t think of any bad.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 255 horsepower V6, 4-speed automatic trans, engine speed sensitive power steering, front strut and front and rear stabilizer bars, ABS disc brakes, traction control, power mirrors, auto headlights, fog lights, leather, power front seats, memory settings with auto entry/exit, trip computer, climate control, audio system with cassette and 6 in-dash CD player, cruise control, steering wheel controls, power windows and door locks, Homelink transceiver, front and side impact air bags, child safety rear locks and anchors, security system with Immobilizer and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,750.

2002 Jaguar XJ8 Vanden Plas (395)

01-05-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I had the pleasure of testing the 2002 Jaguar XJ8. Cars of this class are hard not to like. They are super comfortable, spacious and elegantly appointed. You’ll find women driving this car much more than men. But what about all that power? Women are much too conservative drivers to appreciate 0-60 in about 6 seconds. Isn’t it just the macho guys that are concerned about mechanical design and performance?

However, even the guys will appreciate special features and devices like the rear sensors to alert you of objects in your path while in reverse. It’s especially handy for parallel parking. I suspect we’ll soon find this as standard equipment on most cars in the near future. The cost is minimal for the benefit. The Infiniti Q45 I’m testing now has a rear view camera to assist in a similar fashion. Although it is impressive, the sensors are easier to use effectively. The only advantage with the video version is the safety provided when backing out of your driveway, for example, where it is comforting to be able to glance at the monitor to see if the kids left a tricycle, bicycle, skateboard, etc. behind your car. Not to mention little kids playing or family pets wandering around.

Handling & Performance:

Vanden Plas has a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 engine and you’d have to opt for the XJR to get a supercharged version of the same engine. But performance is excellent in either case. As a side note ABS, anti-lock braking systems, are great but not many drivers know how to use them properly. So I’ll digress a bit to explain ABS. I suggest you read about the use of ABS in your owner’s manual.

In the event of a skid, anti-lock brakes rely on a computer to pump the brakes more rapidly than you could pump them yourself. Using the system means applying firm and steady pressure to the brake. When the ABS kicks in, you will feel a vibration or pulsating sensation on the brake pedal. That indicates the ABS is working properly.

While the ABS is pumping the brakes very rapidly, the wheels will continue turning. This gives you control over the vehicles steering. In other words, you may be able to steer around an obstacle, such as the car in front of you.

Styling:

Some would note that this basic design, with few changes, has been around for several years. It is recognizable as a quietly elegant automobile.

Fit and Finish:

Detailing on this Jag is as beautiful as the women who drive them. And for the most part controls are where they should be, save one – the gas pedal. I wear tennis shoes a lot and have an average size shoe that kept catching on the side carpeting, which was annoying. But then since most will be driven by women with small feet this shouldn’t be a problem.

Conveniences:

If they offer an option for an “Intelligent Cruise Control” on any car you look at, do yourself a favor and test it. It’s great in my opinion. I also like the rear sensing device, but not the TV monitor version.

Cost:

Not a car for the faint hearted when it comes to opening your wallet. But for luxury and prestige, and the fact that only 240 units will be sent to the US, the price will be acceptable to those in the market for this kind of car. True, the badge is expensive when you consider you could go out and buy 5 Saturn’s with different colors for each day.

Consumer Recommendation:

I list the cars in this class below with ranking noted in parenthesis. But if cost is not a consideration, throw those out the power windows. Pricing not considered I would put this Jag number 2 right behind the Mercedes Benz.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Take another look at the design and placement of the gas pedal.

The Competition:

(6) Jaguar XJ8 $56-78,000, (4) Acura RL $43-45,000, (8) Audi A8 $62-67,000, (7)BMW 7 Series $68-72,000, (5) Cadillac Seville $44-50,000, (1) Infiniti Q45 $50,000, (3)Lexus LS 430 $54,000,(9) Mercedes Benz S-class $72-115,000, (2) Volvo S80 $38-50,000.

Good News:

Super comfort, elegant styling and first class detail work.

Bad News:

Turn signal resembles a Chinese water torture, says the lady. I wouldn’t go that far but it is a little strange. Very pricey and expensive for transportation.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter 290 horsepower V8 engine, 5 speed auto trans, dual and side airbags, ABS brake system, traction control, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt wheel, cruise control, power leather seats, radio with cassette and CD, sunroof, rear window defroster, tachometer, alloy wheels.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $68,330.

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

2002 Saturn Vue (394)

25-04-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week’s ride is the Saturn Vue AWD V6 Sport Utility Vehicle. You say, “Just what we needed, another SUV”. I agree, but Sport Ute’s are so popular logic is thrown out the window with the proverbial bath water. It is hard to imagine why America’s auto buying public has such a fixation and love affair with this class of vehicle. I’d be interested in your “Vue’s”. If you care to make a comment send it tojoe@atthewheel.com.

This Vue is positioned with the low end SUV’s but in the top half of those, in my “Vue”. Looking at the stats of size, weight, towing capacity, passenger cubic feet, cargo cubic feet, etc. confirms my overall feeling about these vehicles. See my ranking in parenthesis before each vehicle below.

Handling & Performance:

Typical SUV handling for the most part, but it is in fact as good or better than most in height and width and among the top for ground clearance.

Styling:

“Plain Jane” – but this is an economy version of this otherwise very expensive class vehicle.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. Competitive.

Conveniences:

Not as full featured as some. Jeep and Subaru both, for example, come standard with more for the money.

Cost:

Not as competitive as it needs to be in this market.

Consumer Recommendation:

Do include this SUV in your search. It will impress you as a very viable option to all the rest. I rank it 4 out of 11 noted here.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Beef up the insulation and put the window controls on the driver door, which is more conventional.

The Competition:

(4) Saturn Vue $16-23,000, (1) Jeep Liberty $17-23,000, (2) Nissan Xterra $18-26,000, (3) Subaru Forester $20-24,000, (5) Ford Escape $19-26,000, (6) Suzuki XL-7 $20-26,000, (7) Honda CR-V$19-22,000, (8) Toyota RAV4 $17-18,000, (9) Chevrolet Tracker $16-22,000, (10) Mazda Tribute $18-24,000, (11) Hyundai Sante Fe $17-23,000.

Good News:

Great gas mileage for an SUV, dent resistant siding, and soft sell dealers.

Bad News:

Rear hatch didn’t close easily which meant I thought I was slamming it to get it to close completely – it was annoying to begin to drive and see a door open warning light. Road noise was noticeable. Window controls are on the center console, which is a reach for the driver to control the passenger side.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 181 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed electronic auto trans, all wheel drive, air conditioning, Stereo w/ ck and CD and 6 speakers, power windows, mirrors and locks, cruise control, front and rear A/C outlets, electric power steering, power front disc and rear drum brakes, 4-wheel independent suspension, 100,000 mile tune up interval, dual airbags, child seat latches and safety locks, theft deterrent system, window washers, roof rails, stainless steel exhaust.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,575.

2002 Cadillac DeVille DTS (393)

17-04-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This weeks Cadillac DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan) appears to be a “mans” car. Demographics show sales 85% men and 15% women with an average age of 67 and married. Cost can’t be the reason because young people make more money than this age group.

The younger set still seems to opt for BMW, Mercedes and all the “in things” in their generation. The are living with the legacy of parents who abandoned American carmakers in the 60’s and 70’s as a backlash against arrogant and too comfortable US manufacturers. The Japanese gave us an option and we took it. Now the perception is that foreign is better. And thanks to brilliant advertising today’s youthful buyers haven’t rediscovered American cars. It is surely fashionable to own a foreign car, which explains why Cadillac sells so well abroad where it is the import. Mercedes are still used as taxicabs in much of the world. You never see a Porsche on the autobahns of Germany, for example, because all the production they can manage is sold in Los Angeles. The flip side of that is that you do see Corvettes in Europe. Go figure. Is the grass really greener on the other side?

The DTS is new, sporty, high tech and it rivals most of the foreign imports. Consider the following technical features: StabiliTrak 2.0 that controls steering assist to limit wheel travel and keep the vehicle stable. Continuous road sensing independent suspension that reads the road surface and driving style once every millisecond and adjusts from “soft” to “firm”. Magnasteer is continuous speed-sensitive, variable-assist power steering. Rear parking assist radar, Night Vision and OnStar satellite emergency navigation systems round out a full compliment of indications of what’s to come in everyday driving in the future.

I am concerned, however, with future maintenance of such gadgets, albeit from the 8 Cadillac’s I’ve owned, they were all very reliable. It is a Cadillac, after all, and recognized around the world as just that – Top of the line “Standard of Quality”.

Handling & Performance:

Given its wide and tall stance, the DeVille’s steel unibody is remarkably aerodynamic, with a drag coefficient of 0.32. I am old fashioned and prefer the feel of rear wheel drive cars. I suspect I’d appreciate front wheel drive more if I were driving in the snow or other unstable surfaces. Much of the competition are rear wheel drive, like Lexus, BMW, Mercedes, and Infiniti.

Styling:

Don’t ask me, I’ve always loved this car that has only gotten better over the years. Some folks don’t like the front end and some say it is “Bland”, but I rather think it is elegant.

Fit and Finish:

By and large it is every bit as good as any of the competition that cost more than Cad.

Conveniences:

Definitely more than you need. But there’s a lot of neat stuff here. I liked all but the Night Vision. Perhaps the most useful is the “Ultrasonic” rear-sensing device that warns you of objects in your path while backing and parking. But the most important is the OnStar. This can be life saving in many areas. Med-net stores personal and medical information, and if the air bag deploys emergency folks are instantly alerted. In addition you have someone to talk with for help with a host of questions arising during your travels.

Cost:

Luxury is expensive no matter what the brand. However, I’m convinced that in today’s world, your best buy is American. I also believe it will once again regain its prominence in the minds of Americans in the near future. That’s why dollar for dollar; you get the most for your money with American cars.

Consumer Recommendation:

Test-drive this car. Instinctively you know the most advanced technology and engineering and best design people in the world are right here in the USA. Americans are still mesmerized by the aura of European and Japanese made cars. Young buyers will be most apt to buy the DTS model because it is the most sporty and youthful design. In any case, if you agree with me that this is a “class act” don’t waste your money on the Night Vision for $2,250.

I’m really looking forward to testing the CTS model soon. Thoroughly modern in my view, Millie.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Night vision is a good idea, but it has limited application. In town it is a distraction and I suspect urban areas is where this car will be used. It will be interested to see how it sells. On the other hand, it may just be priced too high.

The Competition:

(1) Cadillac DeVille $43-48,000, (2) Audi A8 $62-67,000, (3) BMW 7 Series $68-72,000, (4) Infiniti Q45 $50,500, (5) Jaguar XJ Series $56-78,000, Lexus LS 430 $54,405, Mercedes Benz S-Class $72-115.000.

Good News:

Many features that will appeal to many, spacious trunk, extremely comfortable on the road, uncharacteristic good gas stats for a big luxury car that weighs 2 tons and you can use 87 octane gas.

Bad News:

Gadgetry could become troublesome and costly to fix.

Standard Equipment:

4.6 liter 300 horsepower V8 NorthStar System, 4-speed auto trans, front wheel drive, Magnasteer power steering, 4-wheel road sensing suspension, StabiliTrak 2.0, 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction control, front and side airbags, theft deterrent, keyless entry, power and heated mirrors, OnStar communications, rain sensing wipers and headlight activation, Zebrano wood trim, leather, 10-way power seats, compass, climate control, tilt wheel, Bose sound with cassette and CD, heated seats front and rear, rear air bags, memory, ultrasonic rear parking assist, Night Vision, sunroof, chrome 17” wheels and XM Satellite radio 100 channels national coverage.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $55,395.

2002 Subaru WRX (392)

09-04-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the all wheel drive (AWD) Subaru WRX Impreza Wagon. I don’t like to start off on a negative note but rattles bug me as they probably do you. Well there was an annoying rattle under the dash. Remember the good old days when rattles were almost expected or at least not so big a deal in early cars.

Considering the horse and buggies they replaced not so many years before, a rattle here and there was no big deal. But after a hundred years of trial and error cars simply don’t usually have rattles any longer. When a car does have a rattle, squeak or groan, they are very noticeable.

The Vue from here looks smaller than it feels when you get in. It’s amazing that this “P’ Popper is a rather comfortable 5-seater. I’m in a Saturn AWD SUV as I write this and for the same money. The Saturn is not noted here as competition because it is classed as an SUV, but in my mind it is a real option. Both are AWD vehicles and the Saturn is one of the new generation SUV’s that are getting more car-like, and that’s the real draw of cars like this WRX.

General Info:

Parts – no data.

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Small Wagon

Subaru Cars: – Forester, Impreza, and Legacy.

Handling & Performance:

It is slow off the line but really fast when the turbo kicks in. But when you get in the power curve of 3000-3500 rpm it is impressive indeed.

Styling:

It is sporty for a utility wagon.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences:

Decent for the dough.

Cost:

When it comes to transportation, you get the most for your money when you buy in this category and price range car, in my opinion. It will take you there in relative comfort and return you home no worse for wear. Subaru has a good name, but owning one means you will live without the prestige of nameplates like Toyota, Lexus and the like. Obviously this car is priced at the upper range of its competition. Granted you get AWD but you also don’t have the option not to have All Wheel Drive.

Consumer Recommendation:

This car is best suited for the mature youthful buyer. It is especially good for those who are interested in a reliable, safe, all-wheel drive car for a young family. You will want to take a look at the Mazda Protégé 5 as well in this class and price range. The parenthetical notation below is the ranking by average price.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

The AWD feature may be good in snow and mud conditions but in mild climate weather conditions the cost can’t be justified.

The Competition:

1) Saturn SW $14,000, (2) Suzuki Esteem Wagon $14-17,000, (3) Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000, (4) Impreza Wagon $17-23,000, (5) Audi A4 Avant $28-34,000.

Others to look at in this price range.

Mazda Protégé 5 at $18,500.

Saturn Vue at $22,575.

Good News:

Good gas efficiency, fast, fun to drive, sporty.

Bad News:

Small, annoying rattle under the dash.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine, turbo, 5-speed manual trans, all wheel drive, limited slip rear differential, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, front and side air bags, power assist steering, air conditioning, child safety locks, sound system with cassette and 6 CD changer, keyless entry, power windows and door locks, heated dual power mirrors, heated front seats, cruise control, fog lights, auto headlights.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,020.

2002 Saab 9-3 Viggen (391)

04-04-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

There is no question you’ll feel the excitement of driving the Saab 9-3 Viggen that shares its name with the delta-wing jet fighter also built by Saab. Saab has, for many years, built quality Swedish made cars that are fast and fun to drive with precise handling characteristics.

confident about their cars performance because market studies show that nearly 70% of those who test-drove a Saab purchased the car. Therefore they have embarked on a new Real Life Road Test program to over 25 cities in 2002.

After testing this car over some of its 54 year history, it is easy for me to believe that test-driving is the best sales aid because this car sells itself.

Saab is one of those few cars that have a “Cult” following. Of course the Edsel had a similar following, I believe for its uniqueness.

Saab says it intends to double its U.S. sales by the end of 2004 and will roll out six new models or concepts over the next five years, beginning with the 2002 Saab 9-5.

General Info:

Parts – Sweden 32%; Germany 24% US / Canada 1%, Engine – Sweden.

Assembly – Nystad, Finland

Class: -Mid-Size

Saab Cars: – 9-3, 9-5, 9-5 Wagon

Handling & Performance:

The Swede’s are great engineers and it is no surprise to me how well this car handles and the turbocharged performance is outstanding. It’s impossible not to be impressed. In fact you will need to hold the wheel with both hands when you put the pedal to the metal. It will flat twist the wheel in you hands as the front wheel drive and the torque of this turbocharged engine join together.

For those interested in a professional driving school, the price of this car includes the Viggen Flight Academy high-performance driving school in Atlanta, GA.

Styling:

This is always very personal, but although the Saab is easily distinguished from all the rest it just doesn’t light my fire, know what I mean?

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences:

Abundant, but you pay for them.

Cost:

It’s at the higher end of the competition, and a little pricey for my taste.

Consumer Recommendation:

The numbers in parenthesis, in the competition section below, rank the cars in order of average price of the range. Drive them in that order if you can.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Get more competitive price wise.

The Competition:

(1)Volkswagen Passat $22-29,000, (2) Audi A4 $25-33,000, (3) Cadillac CTS $29,000, (4) Infiniti I35 $29,000, (5) Chrysler 300M $28-32,000, (6) Volvo S60 $27-34,000, (7) Acura TL $29-33,000, (8) BMW 3-Series $27-42,000, (9) Saab 9-3 $28-45,000, (10) Lincoln LS $33-41,000, (11) Mercedes Benz C-Class $25-50,000.

Good News:

Powerful, fun to drive, lots of cargo area, comfortable and very little “Bad News”.

Bad News:

Low front end tends to drag going up a driveway for example.

Standard Equipment:

2.3 liter 230 horsepower Inline 4 Turbo engine, 5-speed manual trans, traction control, front wheel drive, 4-wheel power disc anti-locking brake system, OnStar, front and side airbags, anti-theft with remote, power windows and door locks, power sunroof, climate control, 8-way power front seats, leather seating and steering wheel and shift knob, telescopic steering wheel, cruise control, power & heated mirrors, stereo with anti theft and in-dash CD player,

Gas Stats:

19 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,095.

2002 Infiniti QX4 SUV (390)

28-03-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:
The most popular vehicle by far is the SUV and if you need to combine luxury with 4-wheeling you’ll want to look at this weeks Infiniti QX4, affectionately referred to as a Q-by-Four.

Sales hype from Infiniti adds a little fu-fu in describing their entry in this market as “Empowering, Intelligent and Innovative”. Why’d they leave out Sexy? It seems everything on the block these days is sold with some sex image. Are we really that inane?

Innovative fits, however, and I got to tell you I really liked the optional Intelligent Cruise Control on this state of the art top of the line SUV. The Intelligent Cruise Control is a Laser based distance following device that works very well for a first generation feature of this type. I literally drove about 50 miles to the beach without touching the gas or brake pedals. It was mostly freeway driving and on a weekday non rush hour driving. This is an affordable option and will add about $800 to the price tag.

General Info:

Parts – not published.

Assembly – Japan

Class: – SUV Infiniti

Cars: – G35, I 35, Q45, QX4

Handling & Performance:

Most SUV’s set high so you don’t get that hug the curves feeling. That must be the reason manufacturers are blending the “Truck like” SUV with the general feel and comfort of the passenger car. The consumer has been demanding the sport utility but want the comfort and ride of the passenger car. Performance wise, the 240 horsepower gives you all you need in passing situations and freeway on ramps. The QX4 is as good as they get.

Styling:

It looks more like the Nissan Pathfinder than it should for the bucks. But I like the clean lines. It is less showy and more sophisticated.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding. I appreciate the real Burlwood that adds a touch of class, especially when it is so well assembled.

Conveniences:

I didn’t like was the user-unfriendly navigation system that costs $2,000 more as an option. I’ve seen better and wonder why this one is so bad. Generally I like them, but this was more trouble than it was worth since I judge the quality design by how much I’d have to rely on the operation manual to use it. Let’s face it; most people refer to the instructions as a last resort.

As noted above, the laser cruise control is fantastic. It is a worthwhile option at $800.

The sunroof for $1,000 is something I find very little utility. It was all the rage in years past but not worth the cost to install. You can live without it and save a grand.

Cost:

Not all that bad if you look at it in relation to the competition. Luxury versions of the SUV have come down in price over the years thanks to the huge entrance of so many manufacturers into this segment.

Consumer Recommendation:

I like the toys as well as the next guy, but I’d opt for the Intelligent Cruise and forget the Moonroof and the Navigation system.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Make the Navigation system more user friendly. And for the dough you should be able to provide 4-wheel disc brakes. Good show on the intelligent cruise control. Pricing is fair and an option I predict will sell extremely well. The concept is simple and for the money I would buy it.

The Competition:

Infiniti QX4 $34-35,000, Acura MDX $35-39,000, BMW X5 $39-66,000, Chevrolet TrailBlazer $26-34,000, Dodge Durango $25-37,000, Ford Explorer $21-35,000, GMC Envoy $29-34,000, Isuzu Axiom $27-31,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26-37,000, Land Rover Discovery $33-37,000, Lexus RX 300 $34-36,000, Mercedes Benz M-Class $36-66,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $32-35,000, Toyota Highlander $24-31,000.

Good News:

Powerful, Ultra-luxurious, comfortable, great ride, super cruise control.

Bad News:

Horrible gas mileage, Navigation is not user friendly.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 240 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel drive system, power front vented disc and rear drum anti-locking brake system, engine speed sensitive rack and pinion power steering, 5,000 lb. Towing capacity, lift gate with glass hatch, rear widow privacy, 16 inch alloy wheels, power heated side mirrors, front UV cut glass, leather seating and wrapped steering wheel and emergency brake handle, power front seats, power widows and door locks, Birds eye Maple wood trim, climate control, audio system with cassette and in dash 6-CD changer, cruise control, Homelink transceiver, front and side air bags, child rear safety locks, security system with keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $35,550.

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