Tag Archives: 2003

2003 Dodge Grand Caravan ES (447)

21-05-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I tested the Dodge Grand Caravan ES minivan. Can you believe these things have only been on the market since 1984? Well, as minivans, that is. I remember back in the early 1960’s going to the mountains or the beach in a van, but there were no windows and you usually would sit on rug-covered floors. In the late sixties they made window vans and I bought one in 1970 to tote the family and the Ossa Stiletto dirt bike for those wild and crazy days at Saddleback Park. Later I would find more enjoyment of street riding on my Harley’s with other aging urban cowboys. But when helmets came in, I went out in anger for our continual loss of freedoms. On this memorial day I am encouraged by the resilience of freedom loving American’s who have gotten the helmet laws repealed in all but a dozen or so stubborn states. When California joins in the reversal I’ll buy another Harley.

And speaking of the Spirit of Americans, we all owe a big thanks to Lee Iococca who made it possible for Chrysler to emerge from what seemed to be certain death of a car company to a real “Contender” today. This Dodge Caravan is a very capable and competitive family mini van. Listen up kids, this is a great option to those major gas guzzling SUV’s you and too many others have fallen in love with.

Handling & Performance:

There is no question vans have come a long way since the early days. This test vehicle was equipped with the 215 horsepower V6 so I didn’t experience power problems reported with the 4 cylinder powered models. The ride was smooth and comfortable and of course the vans have lots of room to move around.

Styling:

Vans used to be very boxy and anything but stylish. Today’s minivans are as aerodynamic and wind resistant as most sedans. They are all nice looking in my opinion.

Fit and Finish:

Thanks to the Japanese, America has become better in many ways. They forced us to get mobilized to fight back in both wars. The first started in 1941 and the next was an economic war that began in 1961 when we started importing their cars. That pushed us to be better carmakers. Japan set the bar higher on standards of quality and we had to follow suit. It reminds me of Ralph’s quote, “There they go, and I must hasten after them, for I am their leader”. America certainly led the way in the beginning, but once Japan got going they leaped out in front with us hastening after them. Today I find equality between the two country’s automotive products. We’ve arrived America, thanks to Japan.

Conveniences:

With the MSRP noted below this van is loaded for bear or a bunch of kids. I don’t know which are more dangerous. These mini vans are Great Catholic Carriers or Mormon Mobiles. My kids were raised Catholic like most Italian families, but son Mike thought Mormons were cool so it was off to Brazil for a mission. It’s said you can tell kids, but you can’t tell them much. Mikes on number 3. Daughter Jen called it quits at two. No judgments. You gotta love ‘em.

Cost:

Not bad in today’s world, especially for the great utility provided to large families. The entertainment center includes a complementary DVD player as a promotion.

Consumer Recommendation:

In spite of the fact that I love the long history of American cars I have to tell you I would surely ask you to test-drive the Kia Sedona. I suspect you’ll have the same reservations I do, in that they are the new kids on the block. You have to ask how well they will hold up? In 1961 when I bought a Datsun station wagon I had more reason to ask that question than you do in 2003. Technology has changed dramatically as has the sophistication of foreign countries doing business here in the US. That’s why I recommend you consider the Kia from Korea.

The Competition:

Dodge Caravan $20-35,000, Chevrolet Venture $21-34,000, Chrysler Voyager $21-24,000, Ford Windstar $21-35,000, Honda Odyssey $24-30,000, Kia Sedona $20-22,000, Mazda MPV $22-26,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $28-36,000, Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, Toyota Sienna $23-37,000.

Good News:

Made in USA (not Usa Japan), conveniences to suit big families, great option to the SUV with close to double the mpg, it’s versatile and attractive, roomy with a comfortable and stable ride.

Bad News:

Spongy brakes requiring more pressure to stop, rear seat is awkward to move (Honda Odyssey rear seat tucks away much better, for example).

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter 215 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, leather bucket seats front 8-way driver power and manual second row with rear bench seat, manual driver lumber adjustment, dual front air bags, power sliding doors and lift gate, traction control, 4-wheel anti lock disc brakes, child anchor system, rear wiper and defroster, air conditioning front and rear with heater, power windows and rear quarter vents, power door locks, cruise control, tilt column, overhead console with trip computer, center floor removable console, lighter vanity mirrors, 12V DC power outlets front and rear and auxiliary 12 V outlet, radio with Cassette and CD players, keyless entry, roof rack, auto headlights and fog lights, power mirrors, 16 inch Aluminum chrome wheels, DVD player with wireless headphones.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $34,585.

2003 Infiniti G 35 Sport Coupe LTHR (446)

14-05-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I tested the Infiniti G35 Coupe to round out the Infiniti line. What better way to close out the lineup than with a great sport vehicle? Yes, the Nissan 350Z, a close cousin, is a more traditional sports car and some feel if it isn’t convertible it isn’t a sports car anyway. I disagree, and although I like both the Z and this Coupe,

the coupe is more practical. It has a useable rear seat, albeit if you’re over 5 feet 6 you’ll have a problem bumping your head.

It has awesome speed for a V6 and I am fortunate to be able to test these cars on the racetrack at Willow Springs, California up by Edwards Air Force Base. Most drivers never have that opportunity so they get caught by Highway bandits we’re told are traffic cops there to “Protect and Serve”. The problem is that speed laws are antiquated and behind the times. They reflect the needs of the past as to safety, but now only serve to generate revenue for control freak politicians. The motoring public is the fall guy here. I have news for those old foggy legislators about today’s technology. I wonder if they ever heard of Traction Control, ABS, Disc Brakes, and all the other handling control features on cars today. One such control system is the VDC -Vehicle Dynamic Control that is described below.

One wonders whom our elite “SS” are “Protecting and Serving”. It surely isn’t “We, the people…” who pay exorbitant extortion in the guise of traffic fines that hardly fit the crime of 50 in a posted 35 that is about $160 in California. Listen up Highway Patrol and lesser city police and especially the brain dead legislators responsible to the folks who elected them.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Los Angeles, CA, USA

Class: – Compact

Cars: – FX 35/45, G35 (coupe and sedan), I35, M45, Q45 & QX4.

Handling & Performance:

A wonderfully enjoyable ride. Thanks Nissan, even if the politically incorrect French have a hand in this great auto company turn around. The 280 hp V6 is the same as in its sibling FX35, but this G35 is about 1,000 lbs. lighter, so you’ll experience impressive acceleration.

VDC like the one on this sport coupe provides 2-dimensional control by sensing the transversal movement of the vehicle and its yaw (rotation around the perpendicular axis). It uses these data to predict the vehicle\’s direction in 2 dimensions and to control it within safe limits. The system recognizes the course a driver wishes to take from the steering wheel angle and vehicle speed. It detects the current driving conditions from the wheel speed sensors, longitudinal and transversal G sensors and the yaw velocity sensor, and simultaneously estimates the coefficient of friction (potential loss of traction) of the road surface. It uses this information to predict the actual direction of the vehicle, and minimizes the difference between the desired and predicted course by controlling the driving and braking forces. When a potentially unstable situation is predicted because the desired course and the cars actual course differ, the braking and driving forces are controlled to regain stability. Vehicle speed is also limited if necessary by reducing engine output and torque.

Styling:

Hard to believe this nice looking sport car has any connection to the design folks responsible for the Infiniti FX 35/45. On the other hand, give credit where credit is due. Designers have shared well between cars of this brand to keep cost down since they use many of the same parts.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Conveniences:

The entire lineup of Nissan Infiniti cars is similarly equipped, as you’d expect. You’ll find little differentiation moving from one to the other.

Cost:

The MSRP isn’t cheap, but the car will carry this price because of all the high tech features and wonderful performance.

Consumer Recommendation:

If in the market for a sport car, this is a great option to give that sporty look, feel and handling with a lot of the conveniences of the larger G35 Sedan. I strongly recommend the auto trans.

The Competition:

Infiniti G35 $28-32,000, Acura TL $29-33,000, Audi A4 $25-42,000, BMW 3-Series $30-44,000, Cadillac CTS $30,000, Jaguar X-Type $29-36,000, Lexus IS300 $29-31,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $25-50,000, Saab 9-3 $26-40,000, Volvo S60 $26-33,000.

Good News:

Fast, great handling, clean lines, and 4-seater sport coupe.

Bad News:

Rear seat is a little tight if you’ll want to transport taller folks.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 280 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, front engine rear wheel drive, traction control and VDC – Vehicle Dynamic Control, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, speed sensitive power steering, cruise control, fog lights, 17 inch aluminum alloy wheels, power mirrors, climate control, leather seats with heated front seats, 6-way power driver seat and 2-way passenger seat, power windows and door locks, leather wrapped tilt wheel and shift knob, audio system with cassette and 6 disc CD autochanger, remote keyless entry, folding rear seat with pass through, security system, dual front and side airbags.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $31,400.

2003 Infiniti FX 35 (445)

07-05-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This weeks test car is the Infiniti FX 35 SUV – yet another entrant into the vast arena of SUV’s. How many ways can the horse be designed? Give it a break guys…

It must be really profitable for the likes of Porsche to get into the fray with their Cayenne. I like this FX 35 but have reservations about the styling. Where do they find these “Style Jockeys”? What possesses them to assume we’d like these odd shapes? Is it shock effect they rely on? Are these concept cars? Who made the decision to go into production?

Anyway, other than the questionable styling the car is comfortable, very quiet and elegant inside. The only real noticeable glitch is the overly stiff suspension. You’ll notice a jolt on bumps in the road that are harsher than you’d expect.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Japan

Class: – SUV

Cars: – FX 35/45, G35 (coupe and sedan), I35, M45, Q45 & QX4.

Handling & Performance:

A real well mannered gentleman that likes speed. The bumpy ride didn’t quite require a Kidney Belt.

Both FX 35 and 45 come in all wheel drive or two-wheel drive, as did my test car. The V8 model scoots from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, and the V6 was very close to 7 seconds on my stopwatch. That is also impressively faaast.

Styling:

Odd shape with large snout and chopped off back end. It’s kinda like they took the concept car from the show and accidentally put it into production. The looks you get I believe are more curiosity than looks of passion or desire to own one. But it’s not ugly; not really… is it?

The odd shape contributes to an odd rear view vision. Picture emerging from the tunnel (if you’ve been there) entering Yosemite National Park in California. You view from a dark tunnel an arched light at the end, and as you emerge you see Half Dome’s famous profile. Well, that’s what the rear view window reminds me of. It droops low at the top and the view is smaller than I like.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent as usual with Japanese carmakers.

Conveniences:

Oodles of goodies and all classy in their application. I like the tilt wheel that brings the gauges with it which is a first to my recollection. The “move out of the way” seat and wheel is smooth and quiet. The rear hatch opens exceptionally well, up and out of the way. Well-done Nissan/ Infiniti.

Cost:

The price surprised me. I expected it to cost more, even if I haven’t warmed up to the design. Lexus is close in feel to me, but the Nissan Murano is a great option to these pricier luxury SUV’s.

Consumer Recommendation:

You’ll need to test drive those of interest if you’re searching for this class vehicle. They are all classy SUV’s but “for the money” the Murano is my first choice in this group. My racing buddy David Murry tells me the Porsche is very impressive but I haven’t tested it yet. Plus he drives for Porsche and may be just a little biased. With that exception, and “money being no object”, my choice would be between the M-Class Mercedes and the Lexus RX 330.

The Competition:

Infiniti FX 35 5DR $34-44,000, Acura MDX $36-42,000, BMW X5 $40-67,000, Lexus RX 330 $35-36,000, Mercedes Benz M-Class $37-66,000, Nissan Murano $28-31,000, Porsche Cayenne $56-89,000, Toyota Highlander $24-31,000.

Good News:

Fast, classy, top quality, sporty handling.

Bad News:

Odd design with large snout and chopped off rear end, bumpy ride, small cargo area.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 280 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, front engine rear wheel drive, traction control, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, power steering, 18 inch aluminum alloy wheels, power mirrors, rear wiper, 5-passenger seating, climate control, information computer, cruise control, 8-way power driver seat and 4-way passenger seat, power windows and door locks, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, audio system with cassette and 6 disc CD autochanger, remote keyless entry, security system, dual front and side airbags.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 23 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $34,200.

2003 Honda Odyssey EX (444)

29-04-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This weeks test car is the Honda Odyssey EX Mini Van or Special Purpose class vehicle. Alaska Airlines north to Portland, Oregon where I picked up this very capable and convenient vehicle for the purpose intended. I would be carrying a few adults and a small child and a smaller dog. This mini van is perfect for that application.

I spend some time on a ranch in southern Oregon where I do a little business, write, cut fire wood, write, horseback ride and write more. When it’s time to pick up a ton or two of hay for the horses and longhorn cattle the Dodge Dualee is necessary. But running into town with seating for 7, this mini van is just the ticket.

Don’t you wish you could have one of everything? It’s tough to make two vehicles, most of us have, fit every need. And then there is your budget to buy and operate two vehicles. That is the primary reason why I remind folks about the economy of Mini Vans vs. SUV’s that is significant. The reason for the higher cost of owning an SUV is the heavy, energy consuming 4-wheel drive apparatus. And ironically the 4-wheel drive will be used in only 5% of the vehicles in this class.

I took the Applegate Trail south to Eugene, a short one and a half hours from Portland on I-5. The countryside is beautiful this time of year. Spring is great most places but the greenery is breathtaking and gives you a peace with nature.

Handling & Performance:

This is a great road car and for the most part is quiet and comfortable.

Styling:

Sleek designs are common today, especially in the Mini Van class. But where vehicles like this shine, in my view, is the convenience built in. Power sliding doors neatly retract and close with very little exposure to the sliding mechanism. I also like the sloping long windshield and small snout.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Conveniences:

Low slung for good cornering and ease of entry and exit. It is especially convenient for young and old alike, because it removes the struggle of getting in and out of an SUV. Honda has also designed the third row seat for easy folding down into a recess in the floor for expanded cargo carrying area.

Cost:

Not bad for all the convenience equipment included.

Consumer Recommendation:

Determine your need and if you’re a young family you’ll find the Mini Van a great option to anything out there – especially the SUV. Notice they’re just now beginning to get the bad rap they deserve. By the way, SUV’s are popular and thus the price goes up and the profit is so great even Porsche came out with one. Go figure.

The Competition:

Honda Odyssey 5DR EX $24-30,000, Chevrolet Venture $21-34,000, Chrysler Town & Country $24-37,000, Dodge Caravan $20-35,000, Ford Windstar $21-35,000, GMC Safari $22-26,000, Kia Sedona $20-22,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $28-36,000, Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, Toyota Sienna $23-37,000, Volkswagen EuroVan $26-28,000.

Good News:

Convenience at a good price, economical to operate, great family vehicle.

Bad News:

Soft ride gets bouncy. A stiffer suspension would be better.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 240 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, 4-wheel abs disc brakes with electronic distribution, front and side airbags, traction control system, child seat anchors, security and anti theft system, remote keyless entry, DVD entertainment system including stereo, CD, Cassette, DVD players with flip down 7 inch LCD monitor, remote and wireless headphones, leather with heated front seats, drivers 8-way power seat, cruise control, adjustable steering column, power windows and door locks, power tailgate lock, homelink communication system, convertible 2^nd row bucket seats, retractable 3^rd row seat, folding center tray, roof rails, tinted glass, rear window wiper washer and defroster.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $29,900.

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

2003 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP Sedan (443)

24-04-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

Muscle cars like this 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP Sedan were born in America and are a nostalgic and romantic part of our history and love affair with the automobile. Those of us who are remnants of the 1950’s and 1960’s auto scene, took Ford Model A’s, 32’s, etc., and made our mark on the world of cars.

The next generation of young boys embraced the muscle cars of the 1960’s and 1970’s in a similar fashion. And you know, it’s nice to know there is a history of nostalgia that lives on from generation to generation.

Son Mike latched onto a 1967 Camaro when he was 15 and that is the automotive love of his life. For me it was a 1934 Chevrolet coupe with a rumble seat. It too was my first car and will always occupy a place in my heart. Young men bond with such experiences and their cars become a labor of love. Changing transmissions and tires with care like moms changing diapers – but hopefully not done as often as diaper changes.

Forty years ago when the Grand Prix was introduced it was the time for muscle cars and it brings back memories of greasy fingernails, the smell of gas and busted knuckles from the constant maintenance and modifications. We taught Detroit a lot even if they were slow learners. Those were great fun days. Now we have virtual reality, but somehow I liked the real reality of those “Happy Days”. I wonder what this generation of young folks will have to look back on. Hmmmm.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – USA

Class: – Mid Size

Cars: – Aztek, Bonneville, Grand Am, Grand Prix, Montana, Sunfire, Vibe.

Handling & Performance:

Performance is a Muscle cars middle name. But for American cars it’s brute force as compared to the performance sophistication of Japanese cars. On the other hand there is a kind of mystique that surrounds American Muscle Cars that reminds us they came from the back yards of young men who gave birth to SEMA and all the aftermarket companies they represent. And speaking of the “Good old days”, Grand Prix had a big V8 and today Pontiac met the performance challenge with the quick acceleration of a Supercharged 3.8 liter 240 horsepower V6. This powerful engine is mated to a 4-speed automatic trans that shifts great and smooth as silk to use another term from the past. But smooth as silk could not be applied to the way auto transmissions shifted back in the 1960’s and 70’s.

Styling:

Sleek with a faint bit of the past. Cars like this are designed to look fast just standing still. Designers have provided roomy front seating for five but for tall folks the rear is a little tight. They also did a great job on the cockpit with canted driver instrument panel and the gauges are large and clearly readable. Another design feature I like a lot is the hug you get from the bucket seats. They fit so well and add to the driving pleasure that often comes from performance sport cars.

Fit and Finish:

Really quite good. Not quite to the Japanese standards but we’ve come a long way baby. What you’ll find is that American cars are presented in a more rough and tumble fashion where Japanese present a more dainty appearance. Real men don’t care but the ladies will surely lean toward the Japanese frills. Those cars are almost too “Squeaky Clean” for the likes of gear heads like Home Improvements’ Tim Allen, who most guys relate to.

Conveniences:

The Sedan with 4-doors is much more convenient getting in and out and there is nothing given up in styling. If anything it looks better.

Cost:

Still well priced American cars are a great option in the fight back for a struggling US economy.

Consumer Recommendation:

American cars have been on the comeback trail ever since car makers in the US wised up to the fact that Japan was a fierce competitor who had captured a huge share of the market before the sleeping giant woke. But the comeback is coupled with patriotism, mom and apple pie. And although lower prices over the past 5 years will give way to parody once again, I see a growing support for American made products. That’s good news for US automakers. I hope they’re listening and keep closing the quality gap that was painfully obvious in the decade past.

The competition:

Pontiac Grand Prix $22-26000, Buick Regal $24-28,000, Chevrolet Impala $21-24,000, Chrysler Concorde $23-29,000, Dodge Intrepid $21-25,000, Ford Taurus $20-24,000, Honda Accord $16-28,000, Mitsubishi Galant $18-24,000, Nissan Maxima $27-29,000, Oldsmobile Intrigue $23-28,000, Saturn LS $16-20,000, Subaru Legacy $20-25,000, Toyota Camry $19-25,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-38,000.

Good News:

Priced well, good quality, quick supercharged V6, roomy front seat, great brakes and respectable fuel economy (consider, a 60’s muscle car probably got 7-10 mpg). See Bad news.

Bad News:

Marginal room in the rear seat for tall folks. Regarding cost of gas: Come to think of it, gas was about 25 cents a gallon then so we continue to lose ground in the cost per mile category. Gas costs 5-7 times more in 2003 and fuel economy only improved 2-3 times since the 1960’s).

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter supercharged 240 hp V6, 4-speed auto trans, electronic throttle control, dual airbags, OnStar communications, theft deterrent system, tire inflation monitor, ABS brakes with traction control, air conditioning, stereo with CD and 6 speakers, cruise control, tilt wheel, power driver seat, keyless entry, power windows and locks, console, fog lights, power mirrors, spoiler.

Options: Heated leather seats and leather trim, 6 in-dash CD player upgrade and 9 speakers, power sunroof and XM satellite 100-channel digital sound system. This will set you back another $2,480 over standard equipment pricing.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 28 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,860.

2003 Subaru Baja AWD (442)

17-04-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2003 Subaru Baja AWD mini crew cab truck. What a cute little car and the looks you get from young people indicates what market Subaru is after.

Overall I found the Baja a fun car to drive that will not appeal to people over, say 35. Younger sport minded people will want to opt for the tubular bed extender for a surfboard, for example. Older people will say, why not buy a station wagon that provides the cargo space plus the security? Station wagons aren’t cool for young folks today. But remember the “Woodies” so popular in the last generation? Today that generation is re-visiting such cars like the PT Cruiser. I think young people would go for a “Woodie” too, but the “Off Road” craze gives more appeal to the “Truck” thing.

A pickup truck used primarily for transportation will be inconvenient. Recently on a trip to Mexico in a Frontier Pickup we had to move our gear into the cab for a lunch stop and all stops where the vehicle will be out of your control or view.

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – USA

Class: – Pick up Truck

Cars: – Baja, Forester, Impreza, Legacy.

Handling & Performance:

It slips around town with ease. I did notice a little clutch chatter when cold. Acceleration is a little sluggish and better with the manual trans. The All Wheel Drive is all the time and I consider that a plus because you get that improved traction and better fuel economy that alternative 4-wheel drive capable vehicles. Although the Baja has all wheel drive it is not meant for heavy duty off road use.

Styling:

The design includes a pass through from the rear seat to the cargo truck bed and a tubular extender with the tailgate down provides added hauling capability. It truly is a mini crew cab pickup truck. Kids love this sedan/truck but others won’t be as impressed.

Fit and Finish:

This little truck is quite and well put together and well insulated from outside noise.

Conveniences:

There is a lot of gadgetry commonly available on most cars these days. This is packed with the “Lifestyle” considerations for the young out of doors active guy or gal.

Cost:

Base price is $23,995 and if you want the bed extender, speaker upgrade add $495, they also have a 6-disk in-dash CD changer for $520 and Baja Lights on the roof rack is $395. Total with floor mats and delivery the total comes to $25,985.

Consumer Recommendation:

I found myself recommending Subaru to my Niece when asked what cars would fit her budget and need for good performance. She wants an SUV like too many others but I cautioned her on the certainty that gas prices are not going to get much better in the near term and certainly with normal inflation and uncertain supply she should brace herself for spending more for transportation unless she goes with a better fuel economy car. If you are in the market for a youthful car/truck with good gas performance in an all wheel drive, all the time, vehicle, Subaru is an outstanding choice. If you simply need a small truck, this isn’t it.

The Competition:

Chevrolet S10 $24,260, Dodge Dakota $24,075, Ford Ranger $19,975, GMC Sonoma $24,560, Mazda Truck $21,160, Nissan Frontier $24,419, Toyota Tacoma $18,630.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, fun to drive, all wheel drive, surprisingly quiet and comfortable ride.

Bad News:

Optional Roof lights are functional only with the parking brake set, only average acceleration.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 4-cylinder 165 hp engine, all wheel drive, limited slip differential, abs 4-wheel disc brakes, dual air bags, air conditioning, stereo with CD player, cruise control, keyless entry, leather wrapped wheel and shift knob, leather trimmed upholstery, power windows and door locks and mirrors, 6-way power drivers seat, fold down rear seats, 16 inch alloy wheels, cargo light and tie downs and liner, fog lights, heavy duty raised suspension, power moon roof and tilt up, roof rails, swing down license plate, bed extender and pass through, 5 year 60,000 mile warranty.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,495.

2003 Nissan Frontier 4WD SC V6 Supercharged Pickup (441)

10-04-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the 2003 Nissan Frontier 4WD SC V6 Supercharged Crew Cab Pickup. Boy that’s a mouthful, but it is a lot of truck made especially for the kind of trip I made into Mexico.

The venture gives meaning to “Off Road”. But that is where the poor of Mexico live. In general, in fact, we in America seldom get off road. Here in Mexico you spend more time off road than you do on road when it comes to the small towns and villages.

And wouldn’t you know, not a few hours after crossing the border I saw the sister to the one I was driving. It was silver and had Baja California plates that made me think the 5 year 60,000 mile Powertrain warranty will be greatly challenged here in Mexico.

All things considered, this truck performed wonderfully here in the rugged country dirt roads and even smoothed out the otherwise poorly paved highways.

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – Smyrna, TN, USA

Class: – SUV Special Purpose Vehicle

Cars: – 350Z, Altima, Frontier, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Sentra & Xterra.

Proverbs 14:31

I was thrilled to see Toyota is building a plant not 3 miles from this building site half way between Tecate and Tijuana. Thrilled because it’s about time we began to shore up the border communities of Mexico. As much as we think America is a better place to live it has more to do with the economy. If we did more of what Toyota is doing less would go to countries like China and south of the border would flourish. Bravo Toyota. Thanks.

Handling & Performance:

I’ve been off road for fun, but this was business and the erosion ruts were deep and wide and it was a big help to have the assurance I could handle anything Mexico could throw at me. 4-wheel high was great for the terrain and getting labor, materials and tools to the building site was a delight. I wasn’t impressed with the gas mileage however. But there were a few times the Supercharger gave a boost to safe driving. Big buses and trucks in Mexico are more ominous than in the US.

Styling:

Rough and tumble is the image all truck manufacturers are trying to portray. That is true of this Frontier that was restyled in 2001, after its introduction in 1999. Nissan produces state of the art designs that are the sign of the time and very different from the cars and trucks they produced in the early 1960’s when I bought my first “Datsun”.

2001 redesigned. 2000 Old design.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding for a truck. It is a very comfortable ride in part because it is relatively quiet and well screwed together.

Conveniences:

More than a truck should have. It is almost undignified for a workhorse to be so well endowed. But it didn’t have a tape player. CD is the thing these days, but tapes are still in huge supply.

Cost:

Competitive with all in its class. Equipped the way mine was pushes the price up the almost $27,000 and if you add leather, upgraded stereo and vehicle security you can push the price up to over $29,000.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles you can keep the cost way down. But in any case this is the top dog of the competition in my view.

The Competition:

Nissan Frontier $13-27,000, Chevrolet S10 $15-24,000, Dodge Dakota $16-26,000, Ford Ranger $14-25,000, GMC Sonoma $15-25,000, Toyota Tacoma $12-22,000.

Good News:

Comfortable ride, supercharged and attractive.

Bad News:

Poor fuel consumption, side rails look cool but are appendages in my view, long turning radius in the 4-WD models, no cassette player, 4-cylinder version is way under powered so you will likely opt for the V6.

Standard Equipment:

3.3 liter V6 210 hp Supercharged engine, 5000 lb towing capacity, limited slip differential, Power front disc with rear drum ABS brakes, auto trans, independent front and solid rear axle suspension, 2-speed transfer case with auto locking hubs, 74 ft 6 inch double wall cargo bed with locking quick release removable tailgate, 17 inch alloy wheels, fog lights and cargo light, tubular roof rack and step rails, air conditioning stereo with 6 CD player, remote keyless entry, cruise control and tilt leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, compass and temp display, brushed aluminum interior trim, center console with 3 DC power outlets, 4-door crew cab, power mirrors, 8-way power driver seat, 5 passenger seating, dual air bags, 3 child seat anchors, skid plates for engine and 19.4 gallon fuel tank.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $26,939.

2003 Nissan Murano SE 2 WD (440)

02-04-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I tested the all-new 2003 Nissan Murano SE 2 WD. But they are also available in an AWD (All wheel drive) version. But don’t buy it for its off road prowess. There is no low gear for serious off road use.

I like its quick steering and generally this fun to drive car has the comfort and convenience of the finest SUV’s on the market. It doesn’t have a 3rd row seat available so if you need to tote more than 5 people you’ll want to look elsewhere. Better yet, with the gas prices what they are likely to reach, buy this and when lots of people must be transported, let them drive their Suburban that gets about 7 miles per gallon.

The name Murano is taken from a popular Italian sculpted glass. It is said this SUV was designed primarily for the North American market. But then what isn’t? I’ve been told that about 90% of Porsche’s, for example, are sold in the US of A and most of those are sold in the Los Angeles area. Correct my sources if you have better information. However, I quote that because when in Germany I don’t recall seeing one Porsche. I saw some Corvettes. Just goes to show you that the grass is greener on the other side of the Atlantic – no matter what side you’re on.

General Info:

Parts – N/A

Assembly – Los Angeles

Class: – SUV Special Purpose Vehicle

Cars: – 350Z, Altima, Frontier, Maxima, Murano, Pathfinder, Sentra & Xterra.

Handling & Performance:

This is truly a road car. It is not meant for off road but it is well suited for the highway. It is totally comfortable and well behaved. The powerful 245 horsepower V6 is mated to a really impressive smooth shifting and responsive automatic transmission. It is referred to as a CVT for Continuously Variable Transmission. The 4-wheel vented ABS brakes are superb. I just like the way this new entry into the SUV world handles itself. It is sure footed and gives you a sense of security.

Styling:

Well, you be the judge. I think is sports wild lines and the overall design leaves you with poor visibility. I also didn’t like how the rear hatch opens. When you lift up the hatch shifting cargo will likely fall at your feet. I suggest they put a lip that folds up when the hatch is opened. I’m indifferent about the broad smiling grillwork, but I happen to like the windshield treatment. The sloping line gives plenty of useful dash area. You could server a sizable buffet on the surface.

Fit and Finish:

I love the Japanese and their strong work ethic. I toured some manufacturing facilities, in particular aircraft plants, in the Kobe area of Japan and got a sense of the special concern every employee had to do the best job possible. They are proud people. But perhaps more important is the attitude of Japanese companies who enjoy mutual loyalty with their employees.

Conveniences:

Yes. Check out the list below. Generally for the dough the standard features are great. Options are all non-essential in my view. Sunroofs are a waste of time, extra power for the passenger seat is unnecessary and who needs memory seat, pedals and mirror settings – Really!

Cost:

Enough already. Really, it’s enough and not really too much either.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you don’t need the third row seat this is a great addition to the SUV line up. These are truly Cross Over vehicles. Not a Van, Not a Car, Not a Jeep, but they will give you the benefits of all three to a greater or lesser degree.

The Competition:

Nissan Murano $28-31,000, Acura MDX $36-42,000, Audi all road quatro $40-41,000, BMW X5 $40-67,000, Buick Rendezvous $26-29,000, Honda Pilot $27-33,000, Lexus RX 300 $35-37,000, Mercedes Benz M-Class $37-66,000, Subaru Outback $19-32,000, Toyota Highlander $24-31,000, Volvo XC90 $33-40,000.

Good News:

Not half bad gas stats, but then it is a 2 WD, comfy and roomy, solid ride and smooth on the highway, lots of power and terribly responsive when you need some thrust for passing, handy storage compartment under cargo area floor.

Bad News:

Poor rear visibility, opening rear hatch reminds me of flying. Careful while opening the compartments as items may have shifted in flight.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter V6 245 hp engine, Xtronic CVT auto trans, electronic distributed 4-wheel ABS power vented disc brakes, 4-wheel independent suspension, power steering, 6 spoke 18 inch alloy wheels, power mirrors, Halogen fog lights, Audio system with CD player, cruise control, tilt steering wheel with controls for radio and cruise, climate control, aluminum interior trim, cloth seats, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way manual passenger seat, reclining rear seats, fold flat rear seats for expanded cargo area, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, Homelink transceiver, rear wiper and defroster, side impact airbags front and rear, child safety rear locks and anchors and tethers and security system.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,999.

2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4 WD (439)

26-03-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I took a break from the daily boredom of get up, go to work and went off roading in the 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4 WD. A friend has a 1942 Army Jeep and we took them together.

The Old and New. Well, the first thing that happened is the Army Jeep overheated and vapor locked. After the usual attempts to clean out the fuel line we concluded the fuel pump went out. After trying some starter fluid in the carburetor it primed the pump and it started.

Some statistics I thought interesting between the first and the last: Curb weight is 2800 lbs. on the 1942 and 4600 lbs. on the Rubicon. The Wheelbase is 14 inches longer on the Rubicon and it tracks 11 inches wider.

Other than the basic-ness of the Wrangler, it was fun to drive and surely a departure from usual transportation. And this Jeep is not just a guy thing. There are a lot of gals driving Jeep Wranglers. My kind of gals. In fact I have visions of a lovely lady in a wet T-Shirt, in search for adventure, wind blowing through her hair and always ready to hang with the guys.

This Rubicon spells excitement and conjures up visions of hunting, fishing and rafting trips and almost seems out of place on a paved street.

By the way if you gals are looking for guys, I gotta tell ya, buy one of these and the guys will find you. Guys go for that “Wet and Wild” kind of gal. There is an interesting mystique with off road vehicles and the people who drive them. Consider the recent craze for the Hummer H2. At $100,000 the H1 was not reachable for most. At $48,000 the H2 is closer. At 24,000 this Rubicon will still give that “ready for anything” image. Well, almost anything. Of course if you hate the wind blowing in your hair, can’t stand outside activities, stop reading and forget the whole thing.

General Info:

Parts – US /Canada 83%

Assembly – Toledo, Ohio, USA

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Wrangler.

Handling & Performance:

Bumpy. Rugged. Basic. But off road, hold on to your hat because this modern version of the original Army Jeep is nimble, Jack. For you old timers it is an “E” Ticket ride.

Styling:

Original. There isn’t much of a departure from Jeeps beginnings aside from fancy paint, pretty wheels, upholstered seats and the like.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is available in a Soft Top, Hard Top or both Hard and Soft-top versions.

Fit and Finish:

It is a bit more solid and well put together, but still pretty basic.

Conveniences:

You can spoil the effect by adding almost anything you find on Luxury SUV’s.

Cost:

The price of being different means you’ll pay for champagne and get beer, because there is much more to this Jeep than meets the eye. It is very capable off road. Things like the front and rear wheel-locking feature. This kind of engineering doesn’t come cheap.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re a down to earth guy or gal who pride yourselves with being uniquely you, don’t mind getting your hands dirty, love to be outside in the wilderness, the manufacturer had you in mind for this vehicle. You probably like, skiing, camping, rock climbing, skydiving, rafting, surfing, hiking or all of the above.

Jeep owners are in a special club encouraged by the company who help make the off road adventure a reality with Jeep Jamborees. Truly a great experience and a 3-day course on how much your Jeep can do. It will amaze you as it did me on the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts. I’m looking forward to the experience on the Rubicon Trail in California. You can learn more from their web site

http://www.jeepersjamboree.com/jeep-itinerary.html

The Competition:

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon $16-24,000 is in a class all by itself, even though the following are listed as competitors. Chevrolet Tracker $16-22,000, Kia Sportage $15-18,000, Suzuki Vitara $16-18,000, Toyota RAV 4 $17-18,000. But there is nothing close except the Hummer at two to four times the money.

Good News:

Different, fun to drive, powerful and a good reason to get off the couch, because life is not a spectator sport.

Bad News:

Poor fuel economy and getting in and out is like mounting a horse.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter inline 6 cylinder 190 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic trans with lockup torque converter, dual air bags, 4-wheel power disc brakes, power steering, skid plate shield on the transfer case and fuel tank, tow hooks – 2 front and 1 rear, stabilizer bars front and rear, high pressure gas shocks, tilt leather wrapped steering wheel, center console, AM/FM radio with cassette and 4 speakers, carpeted, fully padded roll bar, fog lights, swing away mirrors, matching full size spare wheel and tire, soft top. Options: Air-conditioning $895, Cruise control $250, CD changer $125, Hard top with roll up windows, rear wiper and defroster $920.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 19 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $24,485.

2003 BMW Z4 (438.5)

19-03-2003Autolove No comments

Another View:

This week I had the opportunity to visit with an open critic of the BMW Z4 Roadster. To the naked eye – mine – I didn’t see the problem, but then I’m not a car designer.

Merkel Weiss is a professor and automotive design engineer who’ve I’ve known for many years. From his work at Chrysler Corporation to Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, he has always been an automotive voice asked for or not.

Well, I asked Merkel what he thought of the new BMW Z4. He owns an M3 so I figured he would surely have a good thought, but I got another view.

Merkel says he was in the dentist chair for X-rays and the tech said he was doing very well controlling his gag reflexes. Merkel explained he had spent a lot of time analyzing the form of the Z4, which he surmised was a complete non sequitur to her.

Me too, until Merkel explained. “ A gag reflex is a protection feature of the human anatomy that is completely autonomic. It is certainly possible, through practice to learn to control the gag reflex. But that thought came to me while I was thinking about certain aesthetic features of modern car design which are accepted as good work, and that which is not – specifically the BMW Z4.”

“Ok, Joe, I am not an old fogie and reject any reference to old fogyism that one might attribute to this aesthetic consideration, mainly because I taught car design for years. I know many car designers, and I enjoy all aspects of modern design, but only the good ones that are, by the way, good today and tomorrow. They may date themselves but the good part stays good.”

Merkel, how do you evaluate the good ones?

“It’s really not too difficult. First you need an adult view of sculpture. When we were kids we drew pictures with all kinds of stuff in the composition. The picture got busy and we liked it that way. I think of a busy stylistic treatment as an immature aesthetic, like Datsun’s of the 70’s.

So what’s your beef with the Z4?

“It is a tremendous achievement for BMW’s design department because it is something that ordinarily should not be possible. The joining of concave and convex surfaces through a 45-degree sculpture line through the front fender is really a work of genius, except for one thing. It fails to mate by definition, making the front of the car separate from the back. For one thing the rear haunches are way too weak, and the ducktail is way too tall, dropping off on either side of the center duck tail like Niagara Falls and giving the car a saggy butt Bertha look. The tail edge drop-off here should be reduced to no more than about a third of what it is, but no drop-off at all (like a Ford GT40 ducktail) would be better yet. And with the top up it turns dreadful.”

Ford concept GT 40.

Wow, Merkel. Don’t hold anything back; tell me how you really feel.

“Joe, you know I own a BMW and they drive great, but I loathe the body of the Z4 simply because I want to like it so much and it is such a departure from the nicely sculpted BMW’s of the past. And while I’m on a roll, the 7 series trunk treatment also brings out the barf bag. The pasted on trunk is just plain undignified in a car of this stature.

2003 BMW 7 Series

I believe that the same ingenious thought process has led BMW down the path of over analysis to such a degree that the original function got lost in the translation. This flame surfacing and trunk pasting direction is simply bad. I think GM got it a lot better with the Holden Monaro/GTO, Porsche with the Boxster, Honda with the S2000 and Audi with the TT.

GM’s Monaro Porsche Boxster

Honda S2000 Audi TT

While I applaud BMW for inventing and building something completely new, I think someone inside BMW should have stepped up and barfed. Only now in the darkest corners of the empire are shadowed figures beginning to whisper,
hey, the Emperor has no clothes on…”

Consumer Recommendation:

Don’t ask Merkel.

The Competition:

2003 BMW Z4 $33-40,000, Audi TT $33-40,000, Mazda MX 5 Miata $22-26,000, Mercedes SLK $40-55,000, Porsche Boxster $42-52,000, Toyota MR2 Spyder 24,570.

Good News:

Drives Great.

Bad News:

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