Tag Archives: 2003

2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer (454)

08-07-2013Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I had the opportunity of taking a 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer to Sequoia National Park for a week of hiking the beautiful mountains of Mineral King, California. What a contrast from the high tech of the city to the low tech of the High Sierra in this great country.

But I brought the high tech with me in this Trail Blazer equipped with OnStar Satellite communications and my Casio watch with altimeter, barometer, compass and temperature. I know, what will they think of next, eh? Ok, I didn’t have a GPS but that’s next. I wish my dialup worked as well but that’s another story.

Back to OnStar for a minute. I’m always amazed to be able to push one button and talk to someone in North Carolina, in this case, and get my exact position and the weather report for our hike. My cell phone didn’t work, but my TrailBlazer gave me the comfort to know I could reach help if I needed it.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – Moraine, Ohio, and EXT version from Oklahoma City, OK, USA

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Blazer, Cavalier, Corvette, Express, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo, S10 Pickup, Silverado 1500,2500, 2500 HD & 3500, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Tracker, Trail Blazer & Venture.

Box styling G-Class Mercedes Benz Honda’s box version – Element.

Handling & Performance:

The premium ride suspension package works well and it got a real test on the twists and turns and rugged road. It was noticeably comfortable. The last time I tested this car was in Portland on its roll out along with the Chevrolet Avalanche. The advanced technology inline six-cylinder engine is smooth and quiet and powerful. There were four of us and all our baggage and food for a week for eighteen. I figured we hauled about 1000 pounds of people and gear between the inside and the roof rack.

Styling:

The look and feel is just my taste and I like the tail light change this year. I’m sorry folks I’m turned off by the square box designs hitting the highway recently with the likes of Honda Element or the Mercedes Benz G-Class.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences:

The most convenient thing about this Chevy is that, like most American made cars, you can count on “User Friendly” easy to operate feature controls. That is not true of many European and Japanese cars with controls more difficult than they need to be. The child locks for the rear doors is good although I must admit it took a while to discover why one door would work and the other wouldn’t. I kept looking for the control on the dash. Well dah dad, the control is manual on the door. Ok son I knew that…

But it did seem to me that if you want to keep children from opening the door, it should be both.

The rear window on the lift gate lifts up but when you lift the entire gate things can fall out. Splat! Yes, the spaghetti sauce jar had worked lose from its bag and rolled out when I lifted the gate. On a positive note, if any door or rear opening is ajar, you get a warning light on the instrument panel, which was helpful at least once.

Cost:

The prices have crept up on American cars as they have successfully competed with foreign automakers. But one has to wonder if that doesn’t have something to do with the cross ownership or marriage of several of the world’s auto manufacturers.

Consumer Recommendation:

This has to be in your search for an SUV in this price range. Of the competition listed I have to tell you this TrailBlazer will stand out.

The Competition:

Chevrolet TrailBlazer $27-36,000, Dodge Durango $27-39,000, Ford Expedition $32-42,000, Honda Passport $23-31,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $27-39,000, Mitsubishi Montero Sport $23-33,000, Nissan Pathfinder $27-34,000, Toyota 4Runner $27-36,000.

Good News:

Comfortable, powerful, great handling, roomy, great turning radius due to the inline 6 cylinder engine, over 6,000 lbs of towing power.

Bad News:

Liftgate can lead to trouble, lacks a third seat.

Standard Equipment:

Inline six cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, Autotrac 4-wheel drive, dual zone air conditioning, front and rear stabilizer bars, power steering, premium ride suspension package, 16 inch aluminum wheels, Hydroformed frame structure, power heated mirrors, dual air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, rear child security door locks, stereo radio with CD player, tinted glass, open liftgate warning, 8-way driver power seat, folding second row seat, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 21 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $31,645.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee (676)

31-10-2007Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I drove the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee. What a nice SUV. Some folks including my friend Norman would disagree. Norm had a lemon, I’m convinced of it, because I have driven many Jeeps – years and models and never had the problems Norm had. Several transmissions and other parts failed, but that happens with every carmaker’s products.

I have been on Jeep Jamboree’s and tested all models under the harshest conditions. For those who don’t know what a Jamboree is, it is a gathering of Jeep owners who like to go off road on 26 various venue’s around the country. You have a chance to use your SUV under conditions you just won\’t believe. Great experience. My other friend Norman has a daughter who experienced similar problems with a Chrysler minivan and it is doubtful her family will own another car from that company. But for as many critics of a product there are die-hard supporters.

Well, generally speaking you get what you pay for and at the end of the day if you’ve experienced low maintenance problems and thus limited the aggravation of spending time at the dealer the extra money would have been worth it.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – Detroit, MI.

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Wrangler.

Handling & Performance:

As good as the rest but all suck when it comes to gas consumption.

Styling:

Simply the best. This is perhaps the most identifiable SUV of the entire field. It has looked the part longer than any of the other copycats. Lets face it, if there weren’t so much profit in making this class vehicle Jeep would still own the market and others wouldn’t bother competing. Jeep Wrangler styling is what started the whole craze and remains special in its nitch.

Fit and Finish:

Very good. Jeep did have problems in this area in years past but I have noticed a marked improvement over the years.

Cost:

A bit overpriced.

Consumer Recommendation:

You simply have a huge range of sizes, makes and models to choose from. Establish a price range. If you want to spend $18-24,000 you will be looking at smaller SUV’s like Jeep Liberty, Ford Escape and Honda CRV, $25-35,000 mid range like the Ford Explorer, Chevy Trailblazer and Lexus RX 300 or $40-80,000 High end luxury SUV’s like the Lincoln Navigator, BMW X5, and Bad Boys like the Hummer and the downscaled H2.

Manufacturer Recommendations:

Don’t be so cheap. When a customer has problems that are chronic, give them a replacement and avoid the bad press and consumer dissatisfaction. Good news travels fast, bad news travels faster.

The Competition: (in order of avg. price).

(1t) Chevrolet TrailBlazer $26-35,000, (1t) Nissan Pathfinder $27-34,000, (2t) Oldsmobile Bravada $33-35,000, (2t) Honda Pilot $27-31,000, (3) Toyota 4Runner $28-36,000, (4) Ford Explorer $26-36,000, (5) Lexus RX 300 $35-37,000, (6) Dodge Durango $26-38,000, (7) GMC Envoy $28-37,000, (8) Jeep Grand Cherokee $26-36,000, (9) Land Rover Discovery $33-37,000, (10) Mitsubishi Montero $32-36,000, (11) Mercedes-Benz M-Class $36-66,000.

* – Ranking is based on cost, cu ft, number of features, warranty and gas mileage.

Good News:

Granddaddy of the bunch, classic styling, powerful and the best size for sport Ute’s.

Bad News:

Poor gas stats, a bit overpriced.

Standard Equipment:

4.7 liter V8 engine, 5-speed auto trans, dual front and side airbags, 4-wheel abs disc brakes, rear defrost, on-demand 4WD, variable lock progressive rear axle, heavy duty suspension with gas shocks, skid plates front, transfer case and gas tank, rain sensitive wipers, dual zone air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, tilt wood and leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, computer, security alarm, radio with 10 disc remote CD player and Cassette, six infinity speaker system, keyless entry, universal garage door opener, 10-way power seats with memory, rear 60/40 fold down seats, front and rear 12V outlets, power sunroof, auto headlights, tow hooks and tow package, 17” chrome wheels, fog lights, power mirrors, power adjustable pedals and tire pressure monitoring system.

Gas Stats:

14 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $39,195.

2003 VW Passat W8 (475)

17-12-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I had the opportunity to drive Jenny’s dream car of the week, VW Passat W8 Sedan. Jen is my daughter and she’s been looking at it because it has the BMW look. So why not buy a BMW? No, I take that back Jen, don’t listen to me… what am I saying, she doesn’t listen to me anyway.

BMW has historically been a product that is expensive to repair and maintain. Yes, things are changing and that has more to do with today’s technology that allows for longer intervals between tune-ups and better brake components.

Ok, so I like the Passat but it is expensive. When I’m spending my money it is expensive, when I’m spending someone else’s money, it isn’t all that bad. The boss blows money like it comes easily, so why should I worry about saving it? Right? Am I right? Isn’t that the way it works? Would you go to dinner and buy a $100 bottle of wine like the boss, or would you buy two buck Chuck?

Enough already… people will buy what moves them at the moment. We’re impulsive creatures who demand instant gratification in general. So, damn the torpedo’s, full speed ahead. And at the end of the day that is what makes the economy so vibrant. Jen – Buy the Passat if you want it. Or wait for your birthday and Marc will buy it for you. If you wait for me, you’ll be walking. If that doesn’t sound like most parents I’ll eat my keyboard.

General Info:

Parts – U.S./Canadian 1%, Germany 75% – Eng. & Trans – Germany.

Assembly – Mosel, Germany

Class: – Compact Cars

Cars: – EuroVan, Golf, GTI, Jetta and wagon, New Beetle, Passat and wagon, Phaeton and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

Fasssssssssssssst. Well maybe it should Fassst. The W8 makes a big difference Jen tells me. She went to the dealer and test-drove the V6. Then when I stopped by with the W8 it was fresh on her mind that this was more like it. “Dad, I want to get into auto racing. Can you help me?” No, Jen. Can’t you slow down, breathe through your nose? Have more kids or something. Forget about fast cars. Next thing you know, you’ll want to go dancing.

Styling:

There has been a nice progression in this model. It has matured and moved up in class. Nice job VW. It reminds me of Chrysler and Nissan more recently. It’s like they got a blood transfusion and have new life.

Fit and Finish:

Generally German quality is excellent and this is no exception. VW must have made a lot of money on those cheap ass cars over the years and now they’re getting a little snooty by appealing to the higher end buyer. Us common folks aren’t good enough any longer, eh? Eh, is Canadian for “isn’t that right”?

Conveniences:

A lot of them and you’ll pay dearly for them.

Cost:

More than I expected. Why don’t they ease into price hikes? Give us a break. On the flip side however it does have “Real” wood trim (as if there were another kind of wood). Still too much money.

Consumer Recommendation:

Unless you have a burning desire for speed, go for the V6 and drop unnecessary features to cut the cost. Model Range includes the GL, GLS, GLX and W8. Sunroof, leather can be dropped but don’t drop the ESP. The GLS will also allow you to have the AWD (4-Motion). In any case, somewhere between the GL and the W8 you can build your own and eliminate the non-essentials for a price that fits your budget. What you will get without all the frills is a German engineered car built for the Autobahn’s of Germany. Ok, so you’ll have to travel to a no speed limit state to truly enjoy the capability.

The Competition:

VW Passat $22-39,000, Saab 9-5 $34-39,000, Dodge Intrepid $21-25,000, Chrysler 300M $29-33,000, Nissan Maxima $27-29,000, Volvo S60 $27-37,000, Chevrolet Impala $21-27,000, Buick Regal $24-29,000, Ford Taurus $20-23,000, Toyota Camry $19-25,000, Subaru Legacy $20-25,000, Honda Accord $16-29,000.

Good News:

German engineering, high quality construction and features like real wood trim, fast and AWD fun to drive.

Bad News:

Pricey with all the features standard on the W8. So-so mileage.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter 270 horsepower V8 engine, 6-speed manual trans, all wheel drive (they call it 4-Motion), Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), front and side airbags, side curtain protection airbag, auto leveling, fog lights, child safety locks tethers and anchors, Anti-lock brake system (ABS), theft deterrent system, climate control, cruise control, in-dash CD and cassette players, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, tilt and tele leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel, leather seating with power front adjustable seats with lumbar support, heated windshield washer nozzles, HomeLink communications system, Wood interior trim, rain sensor wipers, 17” alloy wheels, sport suspension, power glass sunroof with tilt and shade and Monsoon sound system.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $39,400.

2003 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible GLS (469)

06-11-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week’s test car was the 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible GLS. I like to revisit the most popular cars and trucks because more people care about those. I drove this VW when it first came out for 1999 and in the tradition of VW it remains pretty much the same in look and feel.

In fact they still have the same uncomfortable seats. I blasted the seats before but they must not read my column or more likely they don’t give a s… ahh, hoot. Ok, more importantly, it’s what YOU think. Let me hear from you so I can pass it along to VW. Email me at joe@atthewheel.com.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 8%, Germany 40%, Mexico 22%. Engine: Mexico Transmission: Japan

Assembly – Puebla, Mexico

Class: – Mini Compact

Cars: – EuroVan, Golf, GTI, Jetta/Wagon, New Beetle, Passat/Wagon and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

If it weren’t for the damn seats it is a really good road car. Not like the early days of VW where a stiff wind could literally blow you from one lane to the other.

VW’s are good around town and commuter cars. You can maneuver in traffic and they are easy to park. However, it doesn’t take the bumps very well and bottoms out much to easily.

The turbo version is nice but the added power isn’t justified for the added cost as far as I can see. The fact is there are no highways that allow the speeds possible in the non-turbo, so why spend the money.

If you have ever driven the original VW bug of the 1950’s and 1960’s you’ll notice the absence of clutch chatter and that “Tin Can” feeling you came to love so. The only similarity between old and new is the shape.

Styling:

I am disappointed with the uncomfortable seats but the tradeoff is the ingenious way they have designed those same seats to fold up and forward for rear seat access. Long trips however will seem longer.

I still can’t get used to the engine being in the front and when I pop the trunk I expect a greasy engine instead of a carpeted trunk. On the other hand it looks more like a “Glove Compartment”.

Is this really a ladies car? Surely a color change from “Mellow Yellow” will make a lot of difference but I can’t help seeing Walt Disney’s “Herbie – The Love Bug” when I look at this cute-as-a-bug Beetle. I’d love it for my daughter but would feel funny buying one for my son. I guess I’d want him to have a muscle, macho manly car that smells more like grease, oil and gas than flowers in the vaaaze – know what I mean? It is said that moms make him a little boy but it takes the father to make him a man.

The most noticeable feature of this car is the “Cathedral Ceiling”. I think they must have had basketball players like Wilt Chamberlin or Michael Jordan in mind when they designed in the headroom. I feel like Lilly Tomlin’s Edith Ann character in her oversize rocking chair.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent – with that homey feeling. The vaaaze (vase) is a nice touch, but a little effeminate. Or do you think guys should be a little more sensitive to such things.

Conveniences:

If they made the rear seat pass through larger you could get a set of golf clubs in the trunk but they didn’t, so forget the clubs. You could put them in the back seat and forget the friends. On a positive note, you won’t have to drive when the guys get together for a day on the links.

Cost:

Not bad actually. When they first came out you’d have to pay a premium but now I believe you can buy them closer to the MSRP.

Consumer Recommendation:

Great chick car but I doubt you’ll find many macho guys tooling around town in one.

The Competition:

VW New Beetle $16-26,000, Saturn SC $13-16,000, Hyundai Tiburon $16-19,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $18-28,000, Subaru Impreza $19-31,000, Toyota Corolla $14-15,000, Ford Focus $13-19,000, Honda Civic $13-21,000, Toyota Celica $17-24,000, Toyota Echo $10-11,000.

Good News:

Priced well, fun to drive, ok gas mileage, good commuter car, solid ride, brilliant front seat movement for rear seat access and decent rear seat legroom.

Bad News:

Uncomfortable seats and limited cargo area.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 115 hp 4-cylinder engine, front wheel drive, power steering, 4-wheel anti-lock disc braking system, dual front and side airbags, child anchor system, semi automatic convertible top, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and door locks, power mirrors, remote trunk and fuel doors, rear cargo pass through, anti-theft alarm and immobilizer system.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,850.

2003 Audi A4 Cabriolet 3.0 CVT Convertible (468)

30-10-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week’s test car was the 2003 Audi A4 Cabriolet 3.0 CVT Convertible. So, you guessed it, it started to rain. I hate when that happens, but I got lucky one day when it cleared for a few hours while I was downtown LA to see the new Symphony house next to the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion. It was Saturday and unique to Los Angeles, relative to many other large cities, like New York City, the streets are barren in LA. You could fire off a cannon and not hit a car, truck, bus or people. LA is strictly a business district with the exception of a few dwelling structures. New York has no respit from activity since so many people live right in the city. It was really cool, but also errie at the same time. Anyway it was a great clear day to put the top down and sight see.

Convertibles are really my favorite model of any car because of the free feeling you get driving with the top down. And the convertibles of today are wonderfully easy to drop or raise. One button controls the process on this Audi A4 and although it takes longer than other automatic tops, it tucks the top away under a hard boot. Very classy. It literally couldn’t be any easier. Plus, when the top is up you’ll forget you’re driving a convertible because the headliners are as good as other sedans. It’s easy to fall in love with this little A4 convertible. Little is good. But if you have need to transport more than two adults, little isn’t so good. With the front seats adjusted for a comfortable position there is almost no leg room for rear passengers. Not as bad as a Porsche or other smaller sport cars, but enough for you to look carefully at when considering your needs. 6’4” tall Norm had no problem getting behind the wheel but that made the rear seat nearly unusable.

Todays Audi is light years ahead of those that brother John and I experienced in our automotive repair shop for over 12 years. If you have experience with Audi repair and maintenance please share your feelings with me at joe@atthewheel.com.

Handling & Performance:

Sol-lidddd. I love driving and appreciate a car that is tight and exacting. Not such a surprise for German made cars, but when you get that same feeling with a convertible it is an added bonus. Nice job Audi.

Styling:

Outstanding. This is a car that will look in style for a long time. It has lines that are pleasant to the eye and history proves that quality lasts from generation to generation.

Fit and Finish:

Very nice. I can’t help recalling Audi’s of 20 years ago and how poor they were. Audi is a class act today and reminds me so much of Mercedes quality that has led the way and set a standard for other German cars. In particular, this Audi reminds me most of BMW that has also improved over recent years.

Conveniences:

Customary equipment and all very easily accessable. But then in cars this size it’s hard to put controls out of reach.

Cost:

Competitive.

Consumer Recommendation:

All things considered, I like the Volvo, but they don’t make a convertible so it would be toss up between this Audi and the BMW M3 convertible if I didn’t mind spending a few more dollars for the BMW.

The Competition:

Audi A4 Cabriolet $25-44,000, Infiniti G35 $28-32,000, VW Passat $22-38,000, Saab 9-3 $26-40,000, Nissan Maxima $27-29,000, BMW 3 Series $28-44,000, Acura TSX $26-28,000, Volvo S60 $27-37,000, Lincoln LS $32-43,000, Cadillac CTS $30,140, Mercedes-Benz C-Class $25-51,000, Honda Accord $16-25,000, Lexus IS 300 $29-31,000, Jaguar X-Type $29-33,000.

Good News:

Solid, nice design, comfortable, fun to drive, great convertible top and a radio with a knob tuner (yet another car maker with common sense to realize low tech is sometimes better).

Bad News:

Poor visibility with top up both side and rear.

Standard Equipment:

3 liter 220 hp V6 engine, automatic trans, power ABS (anti locking) braking, front wheel drive, power steering, power convertible top with glass rear window, climate control, power windows, cruise control, leather, 12-way power front seats, real wood trim, radio with in-dash 6-CD changer, dual front & side air bags, power heated mirrors, anti-theft with ignition immobilizer and rollover protection.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 27 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $41,500.

2003 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS (466)

16-10-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I returned to earth and test-drove the 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe GLS. Coming out of the all-new 2004 Jaguar XJR was a leap of faith that I will continue to have no trouble returning the keys to such magnificent automobiles. But for the tidy sum of $60,000 more than this Santa Fe I can adapt quite well thank you.

n any case, whether in the Jaguar or in this delightful little SUV I\’m confident you’ll get where you’re going. Of course, it is all relative and some may feel a more expensive car is a must, and I don’t know about you but I can find a lot of things to do with $60K.

Then the following week I tested the Volvo XC90 AWD SUV for over $45,000. Guess what? This $21,000 Hyundai is looking better all the time. In context, you have to consider you won’t be going “From here to Eternity” in your car. You can only use the horsepower to propel you at the legal speed limit that both expensive and inexpensive will do exactly the same. You will need to carry people and property and both have similar volumes. You will be imperceptibly more comfortable in the Volvo. So what’s all the hoop-la about? Why pay double the price? Pride? Ego? I believe it is because we’re so hammered with ads that play up the rich and famous and beautiful people who drive the most expensive. We’ve been conditioned to believe that if it costs that much more it must be better. Hogwash. I’ve been testing cars unofficially and officially for decades, and it just ain’t so folks.

Living in a “Throw away” world, it just doesn’t make sense to spend more than you have to, to do the job essentially the same way. Consider the computer, cell phones, and other electronics… it is cheaper to replace them than repair them. The moral of that story is to buy less expensive and replace them often. Also consider the least expensive car today is safer, more powerful, has better brakes engine and transmission and gets better gas mileage than anything made just a couple of decades ago.

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – Korea (You can bet it’s not North Korea). Headquarters Seoul.

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tiburon and XG350.

Handling & Performance:

The base model is a 2.4 liter 138 hp inline 4-cylinder engine. I tested the 3.5 liter 195 hp V6 that has impressive acceleration. You’ll also feel very little difference in the ride from the most expensive SUV’s out there, and of the closest competition it is easily at the top of the list. Bravo South Korea, now ditch North Korea.

Styling:

SUV… Almost nothing more need be said since they are all very similar. But I will explore one anomaly, which is the interesting comparison or likeness to the Star Wars Klingon (creature) culture. Certain design lines are suspect. Speaking of suspect, I got to tell you a funny story. While doing “Spell Check” the alternative word for Klingon was Clinton. Do you think they’re interchangeable?

Fit and Finish:

Very good considering the cost. You’ll be impressed and wonder why you need to spend up to twice the money to get an SUV that is so competitive and capable.

Conveniences:

Very good. The list and kind of features is broad for the price, which translates into Value.

Cost:

Luxury has its price and practical has its rewards as we see in the relative cost to function between the Jaguar XJR at $80,000 or the Volvo XC90 at $45,000 and this Hyundai Santa Fe at about $21,000.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you have unlimited resources buy a Rolls Royce, hire a chauffeur and pilot to jet you anywhere you want to go in your own airplane. But if you are like 99.9% of the rest of the world who have other needs, and believe there is more to life than an expensive mode of transportation buy the Hyundai and drive it yourself.

The Competition:

Base Models.

Hyundai Santa Fe $18,000, Chevrolet Tracker $20,000, Ford Escape $19,000, Honda CR-V $19,000, Jeep Liberty $18,000, Kia Sportage $15,000, Mazda Tribute $18,000, Mitsubishi Montero $32,000, Subaru Forester $21,000, Toyota RAV4 $17,000.

Good News:

Grouped with several under $20,000 to provide a good size SUV and lots of power with the 3.5-liter engine and a good array of standard equipment.

Bad News:

Korean – how stable with the current political climate in that country?

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 195 hp V6, 5-speed automatic trans, anti Lock braking system with traction control, power steering, alloy wheels, roof rack, remote keyless entry, in glass antenna, intermittent wipers, air conditioning, stereo with cassette and CD, power windows and locks, heated power mirrors, cruise control, tilt column, dual front and side airbags.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 22 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,499.

2003 Volkswagen EuroVan MV (463)

25-09-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

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

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

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

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Germany 75%.

Assembly – Hannover, Germany

Class: – Passenger Van

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

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

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

Handling & Performance:

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

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

Styling:

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

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

Fit and Finish:

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

Conveniences:

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

Cost:

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

Consumer Recommendation:

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

The Competition:

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

Good News:

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

Bad News:

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

Standard Equipment:

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

Gas Stats:

17 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $32,395.

2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T Wagon (462)

18-09-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

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

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

General Info:

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

Assembly – Wolfsburg, Germany

Class: – Small Station Wagon

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

Handling & Performance:

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

Styling:

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

Fit and Finish:

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

Conveniences:

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

Cost:

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

Consumer Recommendation:

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

The Competition:

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

Good News:

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

Bad News:

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

Standard Equipment:

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

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

Gas Stats:

22 City and 29 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,240.

2003 Honda Accord EX Sedan (461)

10-09-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

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

Handling & Performance:

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

Styling:

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

Fit and Finish:

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

Conveniences:

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

Cost:

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

Consumer Recommendation:

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

The Competition:

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

Good News:

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

Bad News:

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

Standard Equipment:

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

Gas Stats:

26 City and 34 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $22,060.

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

2003 Ford Super Duty F350 4X4 SuperCab (460)

03-09-2003Autolove No comments

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

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

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

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

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

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – United States

Class: – Pick up Truck

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

Handling & Performance:

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

Styling:

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

Fit and Finish:

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

Conveniences:

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

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

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

Cost:

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

Consumer Recommendation:

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

The Competition:

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

Good News:

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

Bad News:

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

Standard Equipment:

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

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway Estimated MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $38,465.

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