Tag Archives: 2002

2002 Toyota Camry SE V6 (376)

13-12-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2002 Toyota Camry. Bore – ring! I’ve always felt their whole line of passenger cars has been unexciting. You know, like they are not controversial in styling where some people love them while others hate them. But, at the end of the day, they always get the job done without any fan-fare. They simply are great cars all around.

Camry was introduced in 1983 and began being built in the US in 1988. They took the title of “Best Selling Passenger Car in America” away from Honda Accord and Ford Taurus in 1997. Today they are available in six trims – LE, SE, XLE, LE V6, SE V6 and XLE V6. They are powered by either a 2.4-liter 157-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, or a 3.0-liter 192-horsepower V6. There is no manual trans option with the V6.

Toyota has always had a good reputation for quality and that is reason enough to be crowned the top selling mid-sized sedan in America for the past five years. I have to admit, I liked this new 2002 a lot. I’ve owned a few Toyotas over the years and they have been consistently good cars. Brother-in-law Steve and wife Margaret have driven a Camry for a long time and I’ve never heard a bad word. You come to expect them to be good and they never disappoint me. That reputation precedes them these days and has given them momentum that is hard to overcome by the competition.

I have, however, tested all the competition noted below at one time or another, and the standout this year for me is the Mitsubishi Galant.

The 2002 Camry is newly revamped and sits on a Lexus platform. However, don’t get excited, you won’t confuse it for a Lexus, especially when you check out the $31,000 price tag for the ES 300.

Handling & Performance:

I thought it was very good for the most part. But even perfect things, like people, have chinks in their armor. It performed well enough, but there was an unsettling little stutter in the engine from time to time and I couldn’t put my finger on the problem. I felt that at any moment the missing could end in complete engine failure.

Styling:

I don’t know about you, but I don’t see that it has changed in appearance all that much. But that’s a “good” thing. It didn’t become the best selling Sedan in America by needing a face-lift. I don’t think I’d fool around with the looks all that much either.

Fit and Finish:

I expect them to be good. The Japanese have set the standard in today’s world because Japanese workers have a work ethic second to none. They just seem to give more care to the process of putting all the parts of the puzzle together to produce a pretty picture, and a pretty darn good car too.

Conveniences:

Fairly usual for the price and quality of this car.

Cost:

Not bad. But you could eliminate options packages in parenthesis in the equipment list below and save $4759.

Recommendation:

If you’re seriously in the market for a new car, and in this price range, begin test-driving in the numbered order noted below in parenthesis to save some time. Let me know where you stopped and what you thought. You can email your comments by going to www.atthewheel.com. Happy hunting.

The competition:

(1)Mitsubishi Galant $18-24,000, (2)Toyota Camry $19-25,000, (3)Volkswagen Passat $22-29,000, (4)Oldsmobile Intrigue $23-28,000, (5)Honda Accord $16-25,000, (6)Buick Regal $23-27,000, (7)Ford Taurus $19-23,000, (8)Nissan Maxima $25-27,000, (9)Mazda 626 $19-23,000, (10)Chevrolet Impala $20-24,000, (11)Chrysler Concorde $23-28,000, (12)Saturn LS $16-20,000, (13)Subaru Legacy $19-25,000, (14)Dodge Intrepid $21-27,000, (15)Pontiac Grand Prix $21-26,000.

Good News:

It’s a Toyota with a great rep.

Bad News:

Changes usually cause bugs.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 192 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, front wheel drive, power steering, power 4-wheel disc brakes, dual front air bags, child door locks, auto halogen headlights, alloy wheels, auto air conditioning, stereo with cassette, CD player with 6 speakers, power windows and door locks and mirrors, cruise control, leather tilt steering wheel and shift knob, (keyless entry, leather trim package, power driver seat, upgraded stereo with a six disc CD changer and two more speakers, power moon roof, heated front seats, vehicle skid control and side air bags).

Gas Stats:

20 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,914.

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

2002 Nissan Altima (374)

28-11-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I finally was able to drive the newly designed 2002 Nissan Altima. Now I have to tell you I have a soft spot in my heart for the company. In the early 1960’s I was one of the brave souls to buy one of those new to the U.S. Japanese cars. Brave because when I was a kid, merchandise (toys) from Japan was considered “junk”.

So I was conditioned to believe things made in Japan were not worth buying. Kind of like buying a car built by Pigmy’s in Borneo today. Now the technology could have changed a lot since I visited the natives but you get the picture. As you will probably recall Nissan used to be called Datsun back then. Secondly, Nissan sponsored my good friend and race driver Price Cobb in the IRL, (Indianapolis Racing League), where two power plants were used – Oldsmobile and Infiniti (Nissan). But still this company has come a long way since I bought that Datsun Station Wagon. Dealerships are as extensive as American made dealerships so getting parts and service is better than in those early days.

I’ve been writing about cars for many years and it’s appropriate to compare that mode of travel with flying, particularly in these times since September 11th of 2001. I have a keen sense of the obvious, but I really had to experience the pain and agony of flying these days to do an analysis of Drive vs. Fly. I had to ask this question: is it me or has everyone concluded that driving is better than flying unless you must cross an ocean. Case in point: The flight time from Portland, Oregon to San Jose, California is only 1 ½ hrs but you must consider post 9-11 flights require you arrive at the airport 2-½ hrs before your flight and endure prisoner of war indignities at several checkpoints. It is worse than flying to Israel a few years back. So lets look at the analysis. I left the office at 3PM for the airport for a 6:30PM flight. Liftoff at 6:48PM and arrived at San Jose baggage claim at 8:40PM. Pulling out of the parking lot I noticed the time – 9:11PM and I finally got to my hotel at 10:30PM. Although you could do the math I’ll do it with you. Point to point is 7-½ hrs. Worse yet, I had to inconvenience a friend to pick me up at the airport where she arrived early for car inspection and then drive home after dropping me at the hotel.

Ok, now the automobile option. One-way car rental cost is about the same as flying including gas. If there are two or more people traveling the car option gets even better for this 600-mile trip. I’ve made it several times and the drive takes about 3-½ hrs from Portland to Medford and Medford to San Jose is about 5 hours for a total of 8 ½ hours. That means to save one hour by flying you must endure all the inconveniences of flying, like packing more carefully, straining a gut carrying all that luggage and waiting in lines to hell, driving is a better option in today’s world.

You’re right; I should have driven this Altima to San Jose. Onward…

Handling & Performance:

F a a a s s t t V6, smoooooth, quiet and comfortable with a longer wheelbase in either the 4-cylinder or V6 powered model.

Styling:

Ho-Hum, since its sleek design looks like so many others on the market today. Come to think of it, too many cars lack creativity of design. Don’t misunderstand me, this Altima is slick and nice looking and greatly improved over prior models, but it is rather commonplace.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. 8 on a scale of 1-10.

Conveniences:

I think you’ll get the same feeling I did. You sense you’re in a more expensive car because there are so many features and gadgets.

Cost:

Not too bad with all the features that are standard on this test vehicle.

Recommendation:

Buy a car, any car and don’t fly any more for trips of 600 miles or less, because the skies aren’t friendly any longer. Now, if we can only avoid road rage.

The Competition:

(Nissan Altima $16-22,000), Chevrolet Impala $20-24,000, Dodge Stratus $17-21,000, Ford Taurus $19-23,000, Honda Accord $15-25,000, Hyundai Sonata $15-18,000, Mazda 626 $19-23,000, Mitsubishi Galant $18-24,000, Oldsmobile Intrigue $23-28,000, Saturn LS $16-20,000, Subaru Legacy $19-25,000, Toyota Camry $19-25,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-29,000.

Good News:

Fast, smooth, quiet, comfortable spacious interior, priced well, good gas mileage on the V6 and very good on the 4-cylinder, large trunk, and a lot of standard features.

Bad News:

So-so styling, feels a bit light and tinny.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter inline 4-cylinder 175 hp engine, 4-speed automatic trans, power steering, 4-wheel power disc brakes, independent rear suspension, remote keyless entry, 6-speaker radio with CD player, power windows and door locks, tilt / telescopic steering wheel, remote trunk, fuel filler and hood, front and rear armrests, air conditioning, cruise control, dual power mirrors, dual air bags, anti-theft system and child door locks.

Gas Stats:

23 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,196.

2002 Jeep Liberty (373)

21-11-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:
Wow, this new 2002 Jeep Liberty will knock your socks off. I couldn’t have tested it in a better environment than the rugged back country of Oregon. I took it Elk hunting and brother John led the way in an Artic Cat four wheel drive ATV top of the line way too cool off road vehicle.

As the road narrowed I barked, where the hell is he taking us. I don’t think he remembers he’s in a small agile quad and we’re in this yuppie off road SUV. I can’t believe he did that. But this Jeep Liberty wasn’t impressed with what the Arctic Cat could do or where it could go. I took the “Liberty” of following him to the bitter cold, two feet of snow end. We were all so impressed that my sister told Dan, a Chrysler and Jeep dealer, who was in our hunting party, that she wanted to buy one.

“We are selling the Liberty like hot cakes”, said Dan. No big surprise to me after battling the elements off road and on the highway. It reminded me of the Jeep Jamboree I attended on the Mohawk Trail in Northwest Massachusetts through mud, boulders and rambling over hill and dale and rivers. Now it ‘twas close to Christmas with snow and frozen creeks (pronounced criks) to deal with. Dan went on to say “they are selling a lot of 2-wheel drive models”. Now, that IS a surprise up there in the Pacific Northwest.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding. I drove the Liberty in a downpour from Portland to Medford and I felt pretty good on arrival. It is sure footed and I felt safe and confident in the slippery traffic conditions, and I didn’t once think I would be hijacked. Throughout the week I put it through its paces in such varied terrain that I can safely say this is destined to be a winner for Jeep.

Styling:

Good passenger space is provided but it doesn’t leave much for the cargo area. I didn’t care much for the window controls on the center console and much prefer them on the door panel. I like the design on the rear door and window that pops up and out of the way when the door is opened.

Fit and Finish:

Real good and much improved over older lower end Jeeps that seemed like a “Plain Wrap” version back then. You had to move up to the luxury of the Grand Cherokee for that touch of class but for the money this Liberty is a step above the competition.

Cost:

Really well priced. Jump on this while the price is still low.

Recommendation:

Test drive one if you are considering a family SUV that doesn’t need to haul the Brady Bunch to the ski slopes. Note that the price is good but it’s a base price without a lot of options. If you are cost conscious and still want more features, you will want to consider buying a year or two old model.

The Competition:

Ford Escape $18-24,000, Isuzu Rodeo $18-32,000, Jeep Liberty $16-23,000, Land Rover Freelander $25-32,000, Mazda Tribute $18-24,000.

Good News:

Well priced, agile, powerful, perfect size for most SUV applications.

Bad News:

Bad consumer crash test results as to cost of repair, poor mileage; I didn’t like the window controls on the center console, small cargo area.

Standard Equipment:

3.7 liter V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel drive system, power front disc rear drum brakes, power steering, AM/FM radio w/ Cassette.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $17,960.

2002 Ford E Class E350 XLT Super Duty Wagon (371)

07-11-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:
Ok folks I thought it would be boring too, but the 2002 Ford Econoline F350 Van was way cool. Sure, it has to have a purpose, but there are many uses for such a versatile vehicle.

It seats 8 so that must be the first requirement you’re looking to fill. That could include anything from a business application where you car pool and want to have 6 of the 8 watch training videos, for example, while in transit. There are two screens mounted from the roof for great visibility. Or if you’re an every day mom who always volunteers to shuttle the scout troupe around, this is great because once again those little darlings can be seen and not heard. However, if all the kids are yours you’re in trouble because the entertainment center won’t be nearly enough to accommodate agreement of varying ages on what to watch.

Handling & Performance:

Just what you’d expect. It’s a big van with high profile design and isn’t designed for road racing. Well, daah. But this puppy is equipped with a big V10 and will never lack the power and torque for most any use. The bad news is it will never want to pass a gas station.

Styling:

Good for a utility van. It is designed for the things it must be able to do, carry people and gear comfortably, and it does that well.

Fit and Finish:

Much better than I expected.

Conveniences:

Aside from the entertainment center with headsets, it is equipped with the usual radio and air, etc., as noted below. What it doesn’t have are two sliding doors like the conventional mini van usually designed to seat only five. The manual operating sliding door is on the passenger side. The huge cargo area makes it convenient to move 8 people including all their ski equipment, for example.

Cost:

Not cheap, but this is a specialty vehicle that has the towing power along with the passenger capability with all the bells and whistles.

Consumer Recommendation:

Assuming you have a need to tote 6 passengers with luggage you’ll want to look at this van that provides comfortable utility because it is more car like than vans of the past. You can knock off $5,000 from the MSRP below by eliminating the “Traveler Package” that includes the remote keyless entry, entertainment center and heavy-duty tow package.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Express $24-35,000, Dodge Ram Wagon $21-26,400, GMC Savana $24-35,000.

Good News:

Powerful, spacious, seats 8 comfortably with luggage, great entertainment center.

Bad News:

Poor gas mileage, little competition in this class.

Standard Equipment:

6.8 liter V10 engine, 4-speed auto trans, power mirrors, air front and rear, power windows and door locks, cruise control, power steering, power ABS disc brakes, class 1 tow package, dual front and side air bags, remote keyless entry, entertainment system, power driver seat, stereo with CD player, 7-passenger captains chairs and much more.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $35,290.

2002 Mercury Mountaineer AWD (369)

24-10-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove an SUV that I didn’t expect to like much. Although I’ve had good luck with Ford products, the Mercury line never appealed to me in my youth. I kept an open mind however and was pleasantly surprised when I found the 2002 Mercury Mountaineer a delight to drive.

I can see why they are so popular in spite of my personal bias and obvious questionable taste. But then I didn’t care much for the Pontiac Aztek either and found it to be popular. How about you?

This Mountaineer, introduced in 1996, is right up there with the competition (I’ve tested all except the GMC Envoy and Acura MDX). At this writing I’m testing the Jeep Liberty, which I’ll tell you about soon. In fact if you can use something a little smaller than this weeks size SUV, you may want to include that in your search for the right SUV for you. It is really impressive. I took it Elk hunting to places most people wouldn’t consider. It was fantastic. I think my sister and brother may end up buying one.

Handling & Performance:

Good handling and powerful. I tested the 4.6 liter 240 horsepower V8 and naturally the 4.0 liter 210 hp V6 will be that much less robust. If you expect to tow, the extra $695 for the V8 would make perfect sense. Rear independent suspension provides a nice car-like ride, and for normal conditions or highway towing up to about 7,000 lbs it is fine. But there is no low range in 4X4 for off roading. It is AWD, all wheel drive, so there is no selection process and virtually transparent to the driver. Again it is more suited for the road and not rugged terrain. 4-wheel ABS disc brakes provide sure stopping performance which is necessary for a heavy vehicle like this Mountaineer.

Styling:

Totally redesigned for 2002 because Ford is trying to distinguish it from its very popular sibling, the Ford Explorer. I like it better than the Explorer and surely better than previous models since 1996.

Fit and Finish:

It’s a Fooorrddd. Many of my favorite cars have been Ford products including my Model A sedan and 1955 Ford pickup. In my youth these were well equipped because I was thrilled to be driving anything. Life was simple then and all equipment was manual if at all. Today there is so much stuff you wonder how they can keep it all from rattling or fit together as well as it all does. This Merc gets an A for assembly in Louisville, KY. Nice job guys.

Conveniences:

Much more than I needed but thanks anyway. On the other hand if I were buying this car I’d have to think about including some of the options. AWD is a nice feature but you’ll pay an extra $2,000. 60/40 split rear seat folds away for easy access to third row seat.

Cost:

$30 grand if you go with standard equipment, and for those wanting a larger engine, tow package, running boards, side air bags, lighted visor mirrors, auto head lights, climate control with dual temp controls and reverse sensing system you’ll have to add $6,000.

Recommendation:

Save the six thousand. In fact if they’d let you leave off other non-essentials in your opinion you’d save even more.

The Competition:

Mercury Mountaineer $29-31,000, Acura MDX $34,700-39,300, BMW X5 $39-49000, GMC Envoy $29-34,000, Infiniti QX4 $35,000, Isuzu Trooper $28-36,600, Jeep Grand Cherokee $25-37,000, Land Rover Discovery $33-37,000, Lexus RX 300 $34-36,000, Mercedes-Benz M-Class $36-66,000, Mitsubishi Montero $32-36,000, Oldsmobile Bravada $32-35,000.

Good News:

It’s a Ford, handles well, powerful, nice re-design and 7-passenger capability.

Bad News:

Same lousy gas consumption, small cargo area with third row seating.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, power steering, windows, locks and mirrors, 6-way power drivers seat, antitheft system, dual air bags, remote keyless entry, cruise control, tilt wheel, luggage rack, air conditioning, 7 passenger seating, stereo with CD and cassette players, 4-wheel anti lock brakes, fog lights, childproof locks rear wiper washer.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $30,610.

2002 Chevrolet Avalanche (367)

10-10-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I drove the Chevrolet Avalanche for 2002. As you probably know this is a new product for GM and a gutsy move to give the automotive enthusiast something different and unique.

I just love the ads they’ve come up with and the general feel I get from GM for “Adventure” and something “New”. The recent move to hire the designer of the PT Cruiser by Chrysler indicates Chevrolet is on the move. This switchable truck to SUV is really cool, albeit a little pricey.

My love affair with the automobile is surely shared by many and probably results from the fact it is an icon of the last vestiges of freedom. Cars have become necessities around suburbia and the escape to the country and off-roading craze points to the need we have to be free. Well, you don’t need this Avalanche for comuting to work, but if you’re an outdoors person this is the hot ticket. Your dream and vision of getting out of Dodge (any big city USA) just got more exciting. It may not lead you to a utopia but it will take you off the beaten paths of big city life into the wilderness with ease and comfort and convenience. These are made to order with the hunter, fisherman or any out of doors folks clearly in the mind of the designers.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding. Mileage sucks, but it is a big V8 and you just have to pay for that strong powerful equipment made to do so much. I tested it off road in the logging country of northern Oregon, and you get that feeling of security and confidence it is a truck up to the task.

Styling:

New, different, daring. I like your all American style GM.

Fit and Finish:

Rugged feel and almost too pretty to be such a work horse.

Conveniences:

Hunters and fishermen will love the large storage containers in the sides of the cargo area for icing down their catch with dry or wet ice or simply use as built in coolers for drinks. The cargo box is secured and although the plastic panels must be dealt with to fully utilize the 8 foot box it is a one of a kind and really does the best job of providing consumers with a sport utility and a full size pickup. For example, this box will hold 4X8 sheets of plywood, which is a true test of whether or not it is a full size box.

Cost:

Real pricey when heavily loaded at $36,000 with options like adding leather and power seats, off-road package including special wheels and tires, specially tuned shocks and springs, locking rear differential, skid shields, or conveniences like climate control air and OnStar communications system, all of which will add about $2600.

Recommendation:

If you’re in the market for a sport utility that is also a full sized pickup truck, there is no competition outside GM. The Cadillac Escalade seems more of an afterthought. I suspect others will enter the market if buyers like it as much as I do. This is a specialty vehicle that is rugged like the Hummer but with much more utility for average off road use.

The Competition:

Cadillac Escalade EXT $ 49,245, Ford F-150 Super Crew $26-34,405 (and all other Super Crew designs, but not really in the same league).

Good News:

New exciting styling, switches easily from an SUV to Pickup, powerful V8, and smooth ride.

Bad News:

Pricey, specialty vehicle, poor gas mileage.

Standard Equipment:

5.3 liter V8 engine, 4-speed auto trans, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, dual front and side air bags, theft deterrent ignition lock, driver lockout prevention, trailering package, lock underbody spare tire, stainless steel exhaust, speed sensitive steering, locking tailgate with rigid cargo cover, lockable storage areas, bumper steps and cargo area grab handles, removable cargo rubber mat.

Gas Stats:

13 City and 17 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $ 33,245.

2002 Honda Accord Special Edition (366)

04-10-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re being economical with the 2002 Honda Accord 4-door sedan Special Edition. Honda continues to be a solid and popular car for any age. It’s pretty basic but it does it all in the midsize segment of the market.

I think it’s a nice little car and find first impressions are indeed lasting. Young and old alike gravitate to this car because it has such a good reputation over many years in this country. I appreciate the nice touches and quality attention to detail the Japanese car makers take in everything they do. I like the Burl wood accents and notice the sun visors that have slide extensions. This model had a sunroof, which I place little value on, because I find they are overrated and offer little utility or practical use.

The spacious rear seat and all the cubbyholes in the cabin and a center console do offer useful utility. I also look for a roomy trunk that is thoughtful about not having protrusions to argue with cargo you try to load. More expensive cars do a great job in this area and most Japanese cars show thoughtful design as well.

Handling & Performance:

Your first impression will be that it’s a little underpowered for a 200 hp V6 but it is adequate for normal drivers not wanting to burn the tires off at every stop. I doubt the young buyer will warm up to a sedan but it handles well in the typical Honda fashion. They are more convenient and as fun to zip around town in as the smaller coupe.

Styling:

Cookie cutter styling, which continues to be so common today. Boring is a better word to describe the unimaginative styles over the past several years, with precious few exceptions like the Prowler and PT Cruiser that offer some distinction and unique character.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. American companies are getting better but the Japanese still present a product that appears to be more conscientiously assembled, even when they are assembled in the U.S. as this Honda is. You can thank the folks in Marysville, Ohio. When the Navy seaplanes in our squadron needed to be refurbished Kobe Japan got the job. I got to know the people and learned to appreciate their extraordinary work ethic. Thus it is no surprise quality control is tops no matter where they are assembled.

Conveniences:

The list of features that come standard is good but so is the competition noted below.

Cost:

The good news for Honda is that they are priced well; the bad news is that the competition also offers a lot.

Recommendation:

You have a lot to choose from, but you know how perplexing a long restaurant menu can be. I’ve driven all and hopefully the ranking will help you determine which you want to test drive first.

The competition (Order of Preference**):

(1)Hyundai Sonata $15,499-18,324, (2)Kia Optima $15,299-20,000, (3)Saturn LS $16,400-20,400, (4)VW Jetta $16,800-24,700, (5)Mazda 626 $18,700-22,935, (6)Chevrolet Malibu $17-19,740,(6)Nissan Altima $16,349-22,349, (7)Mitsubishi Galant $17,707-24,200, (8)Ford Taurus $18,750-23,000, (8)Mercury Sable $19,745-22,000, (9)Nissan Maxima $24,700-27,100, (10)Honda Accord $22,600, (10)Oldsmobile Intrigue $22,800-27,900, (11)Subaru Legacy $19,300-24,700, (12)Toyota Camry Solara $19,400-30,500, (13)Pontiac Grand Prix $21-25,800, (14)Dodge Intrepid $20,370-26,615, (15)Chrysler Sebring $17,700-28,795.

Good News:

Average pricing, well-equipped, good family sedan, and good mileage.

Bad News:

Cookie cutter design, unexciting.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 200 hp V6 engine, 4-speed automatic trans, 4-wheel ABS power assist disc braking system with traction control, power steering, dual front and side air bags, (LATCH) Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, anti Theft system, air conditioning, Stereo with CD, driver’s 8-way power seat, power windows and locks, cruise control, fold down rear seat with pass through, power mirrors, and more.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,600.

** – Order of Preference is based on a formula of price relationship to dimensions, standard features, best overall warranty and mileage.

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

2002 Honda CRV (365)

27-09-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I had a chance to test the all new 2002 Honda CR-V that is growing up. Not only is it older since its introduction in 1997, and it’s weird how 1 inch longer and 1.3 inches wider and .3 inches taller make it feel so much bigger. It’s more comfortable than I remember and seats five with decent cargo area and something I like to have – Lots of nooks and crannies.

I read a lot of auto related stuff. The auto pages and advertising continue to remind us that we are what we drive. The world view necessarily must convince us that we should spend lots of money to “look cool”. It creates the US version of a Caste system. Prior to stepping into this CR-V I was testing the squeaky clean Lexus SC 430 $60,000 sports car that seats 2 – count them, t-w-o. Cool – maybe but it’s a girls car and I felt like I should have the top down taking my poodle in for a grooming and hope I don’t get hit on by someone driving a Saab. “Really, can we talk…” as Joan Rivers would say.

Anyway, the point is that we are convinced to drive more than we can afford to be “Cool”. And when you drive the variety of cars from $9,000 to $99,000 per copy, you get a sense of how differently people treat you depending on what kind of car you’re driving. Boy we’re shallow people, eh.

Handling & Performance:

My first wonder was will it be stable and it was. Lots of power and overall it was much more impressive than I imagined. Not bad.

Styling:

In a word, “Different” is what this CR-V is albeit not a stunning beauty. In fact I’m not crazy about it’s rather “plain wrap” look. For the money I like the styling of the competition more.

Fit and Finish:

Good – as you’d expect from a Honda Car made 100% in Japan. In the coming years it will be 50% produced in a couple of other countries.

Conveniences:

I rather like the fold up / down center console. It is there when you want it or you can fold it down and out of the way when you don’t need it. I’ve gotten used to the auto up and down window feature front and back. This CR-V only had auto down on the driver side.

Stereo with cassette is standard and the CD player is optional. Many cars today are beginning to provide both as standard. Makes sense to me.

Cruise control doesn’t mean squat unless you do a lot of highway driving, which I do and in that case it is a must. Otherwise, save the dough if it doesn’t come as standard equipment.

Manual air is just fine and understandable for a basic car. Your body has climate control unless you’re menopausal – then hot and cold is out of control.

Sun visors are little thought of and it’s apparent Honda didn’t give much thought either. It bugs me when they don’t extend for use on the left side window.

Cost:

As you’d expect it is less than the full size SUV but if the CR-V size is adequate save some money and forget the snob appeal.

Recommendation:

If you’re looking for an off road SUV, this isn’t it. But for normal 4-wheel needs the CR-V is ok.

The competition (Order of Preference**):

(1)Subaru Forester $20-24,000, (2)Suzuki Grand Vitara $18-23,000, (3)Honda CR-V $18-22,800, (4)Toyota RAV4 $16-18,000, (5)Chevrolet Tracker $15-22,000.

Good News:

Slightly roomier, well equipped, fun to drive, faster than you’d expect, I like the way the tailgate opens.

Bad News:

Not real exciting styling.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 146 hp inline 4 cylinder engine, 4-wheel drive, dual air bags, child safety locks, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt wheel, cruise control, AM/FM radio with cassette.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $18-22,800.

** – Order of Preference is based on a formula of price relationship to dimensions, standard features and the best overall warranty.

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

2002 Lexus SC 430 Sport (Coupe?) (364)

18-09-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2002 Lexus SC 430 luxury coupe. Brother in law Steve drives a prior year model and I prefer that body style.

However, I didn’t like the Porsche Boxster when I first drove it and now it stands out in my memory – I think that will be the case with this Lexus. It’s a brave styling change for this model and it will be interesting to see if the 12,000 intended for production will all find a home.

Other cars that rubbed me the wrong way initially include the Audi TT, VW Beetle and the Pontiac Aztek, to name a few. But all have remained in my mind as thoughtfully different in an otherwise bland cookie cutter auto world. This SC 430 is much like the Mercedes SLK in the operation of the hard top convertible. They are unbelievably slick, but you give up trunk space and that can be a real drawback when traveling. I guess that’s why they designed in a useless back seat that seems more intended for luggage, golf clubs or tennis rackets.

Handling & Performance:

I don’t think it handles as well as its older siblings. I felt uneasy when driving a little aggressively which I tend to do most of the time. The big V8 is awesome and in keeping with past performers of this model with 0-60 at a scant 6.1 sec.

Styling:

I was rather disappointed with the look, especially after I had come to love the design of prior year models. I don’t think it will appeal to macho men, but I expect it will appeal to women drivers much like the Jag XK8.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding like its predecessor and the burl wood is still REAL, even though you can\’t tell it from the better imitation. But it is still nice to know it’s real.

Conveniences:

Convertibles are back, big time. And if you want a convertible this one is almost embarrassingly easy to use. One button operation that is so simple even your husband can do it, assuming you let him drive it.

Cost:

Both this and the Jag are expensive but for a car this well made and the long list of quality features it is properly priced. All the high tech mechanical gear is impressive but an over kill for the use it will get in the Hills of Beverly or the French Riviera, where buyers must come from to afford such driving expense.

Recommendation:

Look ahead to determine if the rear seat will pose a problem or the lack of trunk space with the top down will be inconvenient for your needs.

The Competition:

Jaguar XK Series $69-97,000, Mercedes CLK $42-79,000, Mercedes SL Class $83-128,000.

Good News:

Well made luxury, super easy hard top/convertible, fast V8, comfortable seats.

Bad News:

Loosey goosey handling that requires effort to drive long distances, debatable styling (for some it’s ugly), and useless back seat for passengers with legs – I can\’t believe they did that.

Standard Equipment:

4.3 liter 300 horsepower V8 engine with continuous variable valve timing, 5-speed auto trans, torque activated power train, electronic throttle system, 4-wheel independent suspension, speed sensing power steering, 4-wheel power disc brakes, dual front and side air bags, skid system with ABS brake assist, traction control with electronic brake distribution, tire pressure warning system, theft deterrent system with engine immobilizer, headlamp washers, power retractable hard top, leather trimmed interior with memory driver seat, wood and leather steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, Mark Levinson 9 speaker 240 watt sound system with automatic sound levelizer, single feed 6-disc CD auto changer, dual zone climate control with smog sensor and air filter, rear wind deflector.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $58,455.

2002 Kia Sedona Mini Van (363)

12-09-2001Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the “Just off the Boat”, brand new 2002 Kia Sedona Mini Van from Korea. It is totally manufactured there and only 3% of the parts are from the US and Canada. Perhaps that explains why it can be so well priced for the quality vehicle it appears to be. It was even more impressive because I had just tested the Toyota Highlander similarly equipped for ten grand more.

Naturally one has to wonder if Korean manufactured means there will be problems. Not necessarily, but there is simply not enough history to feel the comfort you get owning Japanese built cars that are a part of our landscape since the early 1960’s.

My kids looked at it and because they have young families I think this is the best option to the yuppie and very pricey SUV.

Handling & Performance:

Excellent with one exception – it tends to bottom out over dips and needs improvement in the suspension. Lots of power and similar gas mileage in class.

Styling:

Rather common and a good “knock-off” of its competitors.

Fit and Finish:

Great imitation of the quality so common of Japanese cars.

Conveniences:

Front and rear air, lots of nooks and crannies and other features listed below you tend to get only in more expensive products.

Cost:

Fantastic.

Recommendation:

I believe this will be a real contender in this Mini Van segment that is growing in popularity, and for good reason. Take advantage of the Grand Opening and test drive this if you’re in the market for a Mini Van. Would I recommend it to my kids? You bet, because I believe the risk to be small in today’s readily available technology used by most in the world now with the benefit of a cheaper labor market.

The competition (Order of Preference**):

(1)Kia Sedona $19-21,000, (2)Dodge Caravan $16-33,000, (3)Chrysler Voyager $16-23,000, (4)Nissan Quest $23-27,000, (5)Toyota Sienna $23-28,000, (6)Honda Odyssey $24-28,000, (6)Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, (7)Ford Windstar $20-34,000, (8)Chevrolet Venture $21-33,000, (NI)Mazda MPV $21-26,000,.

Good News:

Great price, nice touches like fold up center console façade that allows space when you don’t need the cup holders etc. Lots of thoughtful nooks and crannies. 7 passenger seating, roomy.

Bad News:

Light suspension tends to bottom out easily, heavy rear door, bulky support members block view, only fair mileage.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 195 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual sliding side doors, power steering, dual air bags, 2^nd row child seat anchors on removable captains chairs, 7 passenger seating, dual air front and rear, power windows, locks and mirrors, AM/FM with Cassette and CD, 8-way power driver seat and 4-way power passenger seat, 3^rd row sliding split folding removable seats, overhead console w/ trip computer, lights and clock, cruise control, 3 power outlets, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, wood grain accents, keyless entry system, cupholders for all rows and rear wiper washer.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $19-21,000.

** – Order of Preference is based on a formula of price relationship to dimensions and standard features and the best overall warranty.

NI – Not included in ranking

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

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