Tag Archives: 2003

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT Turbo (437)

12-03-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I finally got to test-drive the 4-cylinder Turbo version of the PT Cruiser. I had felt back in 2000 that this car / truck / SUV would not only be a trip back in time, the price would surely go up once the demand pushed production. Prices didn’t go up as much as I thought, however, and Chrysler really pushed up production to meet the demand.

I believe the folks who drive the demand up for the PT Cruiser are in their 50’s and 60’s. Those are the Rod lovers for car of the period and I think they too have pushed for this Turbo version. Those are the same people who invented the “Drag Strip” and have supported professional racing for the past 50 years. And it is comforting to know that their old high school sweethearts are also seen driving them.

Ok, so although it rides nice and now has the power we wanted, is it still too small inside and barely adequate for transporting lads and ladies and luggage. Well, the “Cruiser” is a unique addition to the highway like other older renovated Rods, but with the advantage of being new, reliable, and thus more practical as a daily driver. It provides everything other cars provide and I expect it will continue to be a popular reminder of transportation of the early part of the 20th Century.

Handling & Performance:

The Cruiser has a terrible turning radius and that was the only gripe I heard from a friend who rented one on a recent road trip. Me, I like the increased power from the turbo that boosts the 150 horsepower to 215, but that was never a deal breaker without it. As to the ride, it is surprisingly smooth and quite comfortable and the long turning radius is only a minor inconvenience.

Styling:

It is a shiny, clean, modern version of the past. A second Dream Cruiser edition will also be added to the PT Cruiser lineup later in the 2003 model year. It sets on a Neon platform and follows in the footsteps of some older panel trucks. In fact, there is now a conversion kit available that converts it to a true Panel truck. It means removing the rear door handles, installing rear side window coverings and even provided cladding on the inside to make it a true Panel Truck.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Conveniences:

Nothing out of the ordinary.

Cost:

Prices are a climbing. In 2000 the price was about $15,000. Why, you say? Well, I’d say “…because” but I can just hear my daughter at various adolescent ages chiding me that “Because” is not an answer. Ok, she broke me of that and now kids drive adults up the wall with that favorite response of the day – “Whateverrrrr”. Why do they say that? I suspect, just “Because”.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’ve got to capture a bit of the past and have the dough it’s a fun car to have and drive. It attracts attention in lesser and lesser degrees than when introduced in 1998, but still a fun car to drive.

The Competition:

VW Beetle $16-26,000, Mini Cooper $16-19,000, Toyota RAV4 $17-18,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $17-22,000, Honda CR-V $19-22,000, Subaru Forester $21-24,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-23,000.

Good News:

Turbocharged engine, smooth ride, different – a departure from the hum drum cars that are flat boring, 4-wheel disc – replace rear drum brakes.

Bad News:

Cargo area is small and general feeling of cramped quarters.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 215 horsepower Turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, 4-speed auto trans, front and side air bags, child seat anchor and rear door protection, power 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, power steering, traction control, stabilizer bars, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power windows, fold down rear removable seats, AM/FM six speaker radio with cassette and CD, power driver seat and fold flat passenger seat, theft deterrent and security alarm system, door locks, keyless entry, tint glass, fog lamps, 17” aluminum chrome wheels, power moon roof, and power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 25 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $25,675.

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

2003 Infiniti G 35 Sedan (436)

05-03-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
I have to tell you I do like this Infiniti G 35 passenger sedan – 90%. It is a little sportier than the I 35 that I tested last week. They are about the same money. It was introduced in 2002 and is an indication of how aggressive the new Nissan management is.

The G 35 is not as roomy as the I 35 but you don’t really notice the difference all that much. If I didn’t like sporty cars it would be a toss up between the two. The I 35 is more sedate and a good all around family car. But I believe younger drivers will like the look and feel of the G 35 much better. And the real sports car enthusiast will go for the Coupe.

The G 35 reminds me of the Cadillac CTS, but on a slightly smaller scale even though it is actually bigger than the CTS by 14 cu. ft. As to preference, some people will always opt for American made while others will go for the foreign perceived quality differential.

Me? I’d pop for the Cad in a heartbeat at about the same money. It is beefier and much more classy looking inside and out, albeit the CTS has that Darth Vader look.

General Info:

Parts – Japan

Assembly – Tochigi, Japan

Class: – Compact Sedan

Cars: – FX45, G35, I35, M45, Q45, QX4

Handling & Performance:

This is a spunky little car and 40 more horsepower than the CTS. But I did feel the brakes and transmission are too touchy. A little jerky on the starts and stops.

Styling:

As I said, I like the styling very much. I think it is “Today” and this will be a good seller for Infiniti.

Fit and Finish:

Japanese is always first cabin in workmanship.

Conveniences:

Today’s cars come from the land of plenty. Electronics are so cheep these days that you get all you need and the price is right. The list below is lavish.

Cost:

Priced well, but then the competition is tough in this category.

Consumer Recommendation:

All are nice cars, but my picks have to be the Volvo S60 and the Cad CTS.

The Competition:

Infiniti G 35 Sedan $27-32,000, Acura TL $29-33,000, Audi A4 $25-42,000, BMW 3 Series $28-43,000, Cadillac CTS $29,650, Jaguar X-Type $29-36,000, Lexus IS 300 $29-31,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $25-50,000, Saab 9-3 $25-40,000, Volvo S60 $26-33,000.

Good News:

Sporty handling, fast, comfortable, fair gas mileage, Japanese quality fit and finish.

Bad News:

Sensitive brakes and jerky engine-trans combo and small side rear view mirrors.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 260 horsepower V6 engine, continuous variable valve timing control, 5-speed auto trans, speed sensitive power steering, 4 wheel power ABS disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, traction control, cruise control, dual power outside mirrors, 120 watt audio system with cassette and in dash 6-CD auto changer with steering wheel controls, leather, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power windows, climate control, dual front and side air bags, child safety anchors & latch system, remote keyless entry, power door locks, alloy wheels and theft deterrent system.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,950.

2003 Infiniti I35 (435)

26-02-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I had the pleasure of testing the Infiniti I35 passenger sedan. I always liked the Q45 luxury and look, so this is a nice update of the I30 with similar grill look and the feel inside is similar yet smaller than the Q. It sports more features than its predecessor the I30 and is much faster. In fact you’ll be impressed with its 0-60 quick time of about 7 seconds.

More important for me however is the abundant power at any speed. It just digs down and gives you a boost for launching into fast freeway traffic. Very nice.

It is roomy and the trunk is good sized. Overall this is an easy to like new model to chose from in a very popular price range. With soaring gas prices that may never look back, I believe concerned budget conscious folks will start migrating from their “Gas Guzzling” SUV’s and get real with reasonable transportation like this Infiniti I35.

General Info:

Parts – Japan

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Passenger Luxury Midsize Sedan

Cars: – FX45, G35, I35, M45, Q45, QX4

Handling & Performance:

Generally the car handles nicely. However the suspension needs to be beefed up and smoothed out. I’m not an engineer, but like you who simply know what a good ride is and what isn’t. You get a lot more road noise than I expected for an Infiniti. That’s why it is a “Near Luxury” car. It simply does rather poorly on bumpy roads.

Styling:

Pleasant lines and classy presentation as is the case for most of the upscale Nissan products with the Infiniti badge.

Fit and Finish:

Great. From the inside it has all the earmarks of a classy luxury automobile. Nice simulated word grain trim and leather and appearances of its bigger siblings.

Conveniences:

Great standard equipment listing in this price range. The Bose 200 watt 7-speaker audio system is better than my home model. If you want more you can opt for a sunroof for $1,500, sport package for upgraded wheels and tires and sport tuned suspension (meaning a better handling ride) and computer assisted handling control for $1,800 and a Navigation system with trunk mounted 6-CD player for $2,000.

Cost:

For the money I believe I could put up with a little rougher ride than I prefer. It is well priced when you consider the whole picture.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you are in the market for a near luxury automobile and have looked at the competition noted here, this I35 is a must see. I like it better than the Diamante but would prefer the Volvo badge. This is a real contender in the market today. I believe it will sell well.

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

Mitsubishi Diamante $26-28,000, Infiniti I35 $28,950, Volvo S0 $26-33,000, Lexus IS300 $29-31,000, Mazda Millennia $28-32,000, Acura TL $29-33,000, Lexus ES300 $31,625, Jaguar X-Type $29-36,000, Saab 9-3 $26-40,000, Audi A4 $25-42,000, Oldsmobile Aurora $34,425, BMW 3-Series $28-43,000, Lincoln LS $32-43,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $25-50,000.

Good News:

Nice handling, comfortable, fair gas mileage, Japanese quality fit and finish, fast but stops well and the price is very competitive.

Bad News:

Doesn’t handle the bumps well.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 255 horsepower V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, engine speed sensitive power steering, 4 wheel power ABS disc brakes, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, dual front and side air bags, power mirrors, traction control, child safety locks, climate control, trip computer, steering wheel controls for audio and cruise controls, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, power leather seats, audio system with cassette and in dash 6-CD player with speed sensitive audio volume control, alloy wheels, theft deterrent system and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $28,950.

2003 Dodge Ram 3500 4X4 Quad Cab SLT Turbo Diesel (434)

12-02-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:
I thought the Hummer was big. I forget how big a dualee Ram 3500 is. 6-speed on the floor to transfer the power of a very capable 6 cylinder Cummins Turbo Diesel. I noticed the fenders were a different red from the body of the truck. It made perfect sense when I made the first turn into the driveway and past a building too close. Any closer and they would have been repainting the fender again.

Brother John has the same model with a Cummins Diesel that is about 2-years old. He regularly hauls more than a ton of hay for his animals. He just loves his Dodge Ram. It’s a “Man’s” truck and necessary on a working horse and cattle ranch.

Handling & Performance:

Other than the huge size that takes some getting used to, it is responsive and awesome to drive. The only thing that just fries my bacon is the bumpity-bump-bump-bump ride you get on cement surface roads. With a load, of course, the ride is smooth. And with 460 ft. lbs. of torque you can pull a house. It red lines at 3,000 rpm, and with 6 speeds you’ll find yourself starting out in second, shifting to 4^th and then to 6^th to cut the number of shifts, unless you have a load.

Styling:

Dodge Ram has been a truck leader in style for a long time now. This is one tough looking truck.

Fit and Finish:

Great, even though it’s a truck made for serious business.

Conveniences:

Availability is endless and the price tag will reflect that fact.

Cost:

Price-eeeee. Well I guess if you have a need to haul heavy stuff like 2-tons of hay, horse trailer, etc., then this is the hot ticket. And really the base price of $31,970 isn’t bad if you don’t need the Preferred Package and Turbo Diesel.

Consumer Recommendation:

On the ranch this is a great truck but if you don’t have such a need and Home Depot supplies is all you’ll haul, the base model is just fine.

The Competition: (in order of average price)

Ford F-350 Super Duty $22-37,000, GMC Sierra 3500 $28-36,000, Dodge Ram 3500 $25-40,000, Chevrolet Silverado 3500 $27-40,000.

Good News:

35-gallon fuel tank, Heavy-duty capability, diesel with turbo is fast and smooth.

Bad News:

35-gallon fuel tank necessary, so it is expensive to buy and operate.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter V8 engine is standard (see below for upgrade diesel), 6-speed Heavy Duty manual trans, dual air bags, 4-wheel abs brakes, manual shift-on-the-fly transfer case for 4-wheel drive, power steering, trailer tow 4-pin wiring connector, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, power windows & locks, cruise control, trip computer, radio with CD, rear folding seat, cargo lamp, preferred package with tow hooks, leather 8-way power driver and passenger seats, power adjustable pedals, electronic transfer case upgrade, fog lights, upgraded radio with cassette, 7-speakers and steering wheel audio controls, leather wrapped wheel, wood grain instrument panel, temp control air, keyless entry, security alarm and theft deterrent, upgraded trailer tow, added side air bags, heated front seats, engine upgrade to inline 6-cylinder HO Cummins Turbo Diesel, 750 amp maintenance free battery and box bed liner.

Gas Stats:

Not available- my guess is 6-12mpg.

Pricing:

MSRP $44,555.

2003 GMC Envoy XL 2-WD (433)

30-01-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

Ok GM, this 2003 GMC Envoy XL 2-WD makes sense, but why can’t we get more mileage out of a two-wheel drive? You guys simply have to do better. I’ve been complaining for many years that we can put a man on the moon, but we can’t seem to drive by enough gas stations in an SUV.

Why is that? And now that gas prices are back up to two bucks a gallon in the beginning of 2003, manufacturers will be pressed to do better. Thus far they have done lousy. Hello, is anyone listening?

I wouldn’t make such a fuss but Greenpeace isn’t going away. Big companies are being watched with a suspicious eye or two. We, as a people, just seem to ignore the effects of our actions and will chop down trees without consideration for the future. Big oil companies seem to be more willing to lobby for war to protect oil interests than to develop alternate fuel vehicles to leave some of that oil in the ground. Seems cheap oil paid for with someone else’s blood is ok. Do you think Enron is secretly in the oil business?

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – USA

Class: – SUV

Cars: – Envoy, Safari, Savana, Sierra, Sonoma, Yukon.

Handling & Performance:

Quite nice. I, like most of you, like the idea of the SUV. And this is powerful and finally sports a state of the art engine. It is an inline 6 with variable valve timing, four valves per cylinder. It produces 270 horses and is similar to more advanced engines from foreign carmakers. Nice change GM, from the old push rod design engines common to American cars.

Styling:

Common to the competition and at the rate you see them on the road (trucks and SUV’s make up about 40% of all passenger vehicles out there).

Fit and Finish:

Excellent. I like how well American car makers have risen to the challenge of the Japanese in this area.

Conveniences:

Usual and ordinary. Manual air conditioning and seats. I get lazy and appreciate the comforts and convenience of power mirrors, seats and auto air. I come to expect it. Fact of the matter is that it would be cheaper to put everything in all cars since high tech is so cheap today.

Cost:

A bit pricey. Since these things are so lousy on gas consumption and so profitable to their makers you’d think they would cut us a break.

Consumer Recommendation:

Personal preference will lead you down the isle with America’s beloved SUV. They make us feel invincible and keep our wives and children safer on the road. You simply must balance that need with your budget. Compare a mini van as an option to the SUV.

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

Nissan Pathfinder $27-34,000, Ford Explorer $26-37,000, Toyota 4Runner $27-36,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $26-38,000, GMC Envoy $28-37,000, Isuzu Trooper $28-37,000, Dodge Durango $27-38,000, Mercury Mountaineer $29-37,000, Mitsubishi Montero $32-37,000, Infiniti QX4 $35-36,000.

Good News:

Good warranty, powerful, comfortable, spacious and nice handling.

Bad News:

Poor mileage for a 2-wheel drive.

Standard Equipment:

4.2 liter inline 6-cylinder 270 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans, fog cornering lights, heavy duty trailering, tilt steering wheel with cruise control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, theft deterrent system, child safety locks, 7-passenger seating, lumbar support on front seats, remote keyless entry, air conditioning with rear controls, AM/FM stereo with CD and 6 speakers, power steering, windows and door locks, rear defroster and washer wiper, split folding rear seat, stainless steel exhaust and 3 year 36,000 mile warranty with courtesy transportation and 24 hour roadside assistance.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 20 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $30,270.

2003 Suzuki Aerio SX (432)

30-01-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I jumped from a $50,000 Hummer H2 (overstated, impractical, gas guzzling super SUV) into one of the most practical of family passenger vehicles on the planet. This week I tested the 2003 Suzuki Aerio SX. I guess you could view it as a “mini-wagon”.

In spite of the fact that most men secretly want to own the H2, they would be hard pressed justifying it to mama and the kids. Of course I’m not making mama out to be the hero here, because if the truth be known and she had her way she would buy a Jaguar for her and the “Kids”.

We all know we shouldn’t drink, smoke and chase fast women, Bill Clinton, but we are weak and fall to temptation. So, go out and buy a Jag for her and a H2 for him and forget practical cars like this Suzuki Aerio SX. Just kidding. Anyway there probably isn’t enough in the checkbook anyway, dear.

Handling & Performance:

Naturally small cars are easy to zip around town in. It was a major production to just run up to the store for a quart of milk while driving the H2. It would be easier to walk or I could take the Toyota Corolla or the Suzuki Aerio.

Styling:

The Aerio reminds me of the Pontiac Aztek that so many said was ugly. Ok so I agree it isn’t pretty but neither was the girl next door when I was a kid. I wonder what ever happened to her. She was practical, well constructed and would have been a great mom to the kids, and an unlimited warranty. I wouldn’t have noticed back then. I was into different styling. Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder and it had a different meaning – then. I probably needed glasses back then and didn’t even know it.

Fit and Finish:

Good, like most Japanese cars tend to be.

Conveniences:

Austere – basic and boring to some, while adequate and cheap to others. Life is a series of tradeoffs, eh? My favorite saying, “Enough is abundance to the wise”, speaks volumes.

Cost:

Hard to imagine what you’d do with all the extra money by not buying that Jag or Hummer. Let’s see, the Hummer could cost as much as $112,000 so if I bought this Aerio I could bank about $100 grand. Or consider financing. Payments with 10% down, 7%, 5 years on each would be $267 on the Aerio and $1980 on the Hummer. Then there’s the consideration for repairs and operating costs. Gas consumption on the Aerio at an average of 30mpg vs. the Hummer at an average of 10mpg. You do the rest of the math and you will likely come up with a monthly cost to own the Hummer at about $2,500 and $350 for the Aerio. Pretty sizeable trade off.

Consumer Recommendation:

It is said, “A budget is something we stay within when we go without”. Only you know what you should really spend on transportation. The bus may be the best alternative. Or if you’re a health and fitness nut, buy a bicycle and save money and live long enough to spend it on other things.

The Competition: (in order of average price)

Suzuki Aerio SX $14,999, Chrysler PT Cruiser $17-26,000, Ford Focus $13-19,000, Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000, Kia Rio Cinco $10,750, Mazda Protege5 $16,635.

Good News:

Good gas performance and priced well, great transferable power train warranty.

Bad News:

No ABS brakes, styling only a mother could love.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter inline 4-cylinder 145 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, alloy wheels, fog lights, power windows, locks and mirrors, rear defroster and washer wiper, air conditioning, audio with 6 speakers and 6-in dash CD changer, Cruise control, tilt wheel, 5-passenger seating, covered rear storage area, split folding rear seat, 100,000 – 7 year transferable power train warranty with courtesy vehicle program.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 32 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $14,999.

2003 Hummer H2 (431)

23-01-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

I like this new Hummer H2 much more than the H1. But both are about as practical as owning a fighter jet or a tank. On the other hand it is kind-a cool and surely takes the SUV experience to the Max.

People look, but you’ve got to wonder – are they thinking, “That guy or gal is nuts” or are they thinking it’s as cool as I do. Ok, it’s a Rambo-mobile and guys are brain dead, right ladies? Come on you can tell us how you feel about this “Guy thing”. Can you imagine a woman buying an H2? Let me know what you think, but several ladies have been seen driving on the streets of Los Angeles.

Here are some stats on the H2 that only Tim Allen kind of guys can appreciate: It is said to be the most capable off-road vehicle in the world. Ground clearance is 10.5 inches with an approach angle of 41.7 degrees and departure angle of 38.1 degrees, which explains why it can climb over 16-inch rocks and ford streams of 20 inches. (I did more than that in the H1 because it is a 6.5-liter Turbocharged Diesel… argh, argh, argh). The H1 diesel puts out only 195 horsepower vs. 316 from the gas power V8 in the H2. It has 35-inch tires, which are the largest on any GM Passenger vehicle. It is taller (77.8 inches) than H1 and longer (189.8 inches). It is over 3 inches taller than the Tahoe and believe it or not it is only 2 inches wider, and 9 inches shorter.

The H2 has great acceleration – like a football center that is also qualified to be a wide receiver. This is truly the Superbowl of SUV contenders.

I got much the same response driving this H2 as I did riding my Harley. There is an obvious “Club” that surrounds this type of vehicle. They are extreme, exhilarating and give you a greater sense of your environment. Driving the H2 is surreal and transports you into another dimension. You’re suddenly in the Twilight Zone. What man wouldn’t want to own one of these? In a heartbeat I’d own one if… dear, would you mind if I bought an H2?

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Mishawaka, Indiana USA

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – H1 & H2.

Handling & Performance:

Definitely a hand full but surprisingly easy to drive. It fits in parking spaces just fine – remember it is only 2 inches wider than the Chevy Tahoe. On the other hand, it has lousy rear view visibility, especially with the spare tire inside rear that displaces one possible passenger. Forward visibility is quite good. Off-road is fun and very capable. They did a great job of marrying the smooth highway-driving ride to an easy transition to rugged off-road conditions.

The H2 is faster, much quieter and far more comfortable and smooth riding than the H1 without loss of off-road prowess.

Styling:

It is (relatively speaking) more practical because of size and is simply more SUV-like in design and interior look and feel. It has the same military inspired design with the very straight windshield so reminiscent of the duce and a half I drove in the Navy. It seats 5 with an optional 3rd row seat for a 6th. The spare tire takes up the other half of the cargo area.

Fit and Finish:

Great – relative to the original that was really “Desert Stormy”.

Conveniences:

Just like any other SUV or car for that matter. All the comforts of home. In fact the seats are large like your overstuffed easy chair in the den.

Cost:

Ladies, if this gets your football watching, couch potato man out, it’s worth the $50 grand. But most won’t be able to justify the H2 as a daily driver and for the average Joe it doesn’t make a lot of sense to put a “depreciating” $50,000 asset in the garage to collect dust.

So who will buy the H2? GM says, “He is likely a very successful, self confident risk taker, personally and professionally. They are passionate, irreverent individuals who don’t mind driving attention-getting vehicles. They are predominately male, college educated with an average income north of $150,000.”

H1 goes for $100,000 plus, so for those who like the idea of a military type of vehicle, $50,000 is affordable. Did you hear that honey – it is affordable?

Consumer Recommendation:

Not recommended for normal transportation. But then, who’s normal. Speaking of normal and contrary to Shirley MacLaine you only go around once, so go for it. These H2’s are going to sell well and they’re only building 40,000. If the demand is as high as I expect you can count on price increases.

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

Hummer H2 $48,454, Chevrolet Tahoe $34-37,000, Ford Expedition $31-41,000, GMC Yukon $34-37,000, Land Rover Range Rover $71,200, Lexus LX 470 $63,125, Lincoln Navigator $48-54,000, Toyota Land Cruiser $53,405.

Good News:

Different, comfortable, quiet, powerful and exciting to drive.

Bad News:

Difficult to maneuver around town, lousy visibility in close areas especially rear view, poor fuel consumption and hard to get in and out of.

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter V8 316 horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, electronic locking rear differential, traction control, dual air bags, remote entry, 4 wheel ABS disc brakes, auto headlight control, theft deterrent system, Bose 9-speaker in-dash CD/Cassette stereo system, OnStar communications systems, 8 way power seats, 2-position memory driver seat, dual zone air conditioning, triple sealed doors, driver information center (computer), leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, 6 power outlets, tinted windows, heated power outside folding mirrors, front winch receiver, underbody protection, Class III trailer hitch and all terrain tires.

Gas Stats:

Note that no data was readily available so compare the following: the 5000 lb. Tahoe 4.8 liter 275 horsepower gets 14 and 18 mpg respectively. The H2 is 6400 lbs. with a 6.0 liter 316 horsepower V8 engine so I’m guessing… But I bet I’m close. It has a 32-gallon tank, and all manufacturers engineer all cars for a 300-mile range, for you trivia buffs.

7 City and 12 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $48,065.

2003 Nissan 350Z (429)

10-01-2003Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week’s ride promises to be a huge success for Nissan in the form of the newly designed “Z”, the 350 Z – and it is wonderful.

Trust me, if you are a sports car nut, you have to go test drive one. The reason I like it so much is not because I’m nuts but I do go crazy over outstanding performance. And for the money this is a winner.

Part of my interest in the 350Z is the overall revival of Nissan beginning with its change in management. Carlos Ghosn started with Nissan in June 1999 and in 2001 he became its President and CEO. One man “can” make a difference and by all indications this guy has made noticeable adjustments and turned huge losses into profits.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Los Angeles

Class: – Sports Car

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

2002 Lexus SC 430 @ about $58,000.

Handling & Performance:

When you have a love for cars it has a lot to do with how they handle. This 350Z is a wonderful driving experience. My engineer friend, Merkel, gave it a test drive and came to the same conclusions – “Acceleration, handling and brakes are impressive”. I also agree with him that the transmission is slow to shift and even the “Tiptronic” feature only holds it in a particular gear. When you shift it is as slow as it is in Drive mode, where I preferred to operate. I also feel the 6-speed manual transmission would be a mistake for the average driver.

Styling:

Well, Merkel and I didn’t agree on the styling. I like it and he felt it is chopped up with contrasting vertical and horizontal design things like the door handles. Aesthetically and from a technical design standpoint he is probably 100% correct. But perhaps the departure from conventional thinking is what is so appealing to me.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent for the most part but I wish they had done something with the seat belts to keep them from knocking against the doorframe – annoying. Yes, I do wear my seat belt, but I don’t always have a passenger. Merkel felt the seats were uncomfortable but I didn’t get that sense at all, but then I didn’t take this Touring model on a long trip. I guess I was preoccupied with “enjoying the ride”.

Conveniences:

Wow, what a list of standard equipment. This Z was equipped with more than I needed, but most of it is related to performance enhancers you only find on more pricey sports cars. My 6 foot 4 inch friend Norm sat in the car and was fine with the legroom. He usually has a problem with cars accommodating his rather tall frame.

Cost:

Well priced for what you get – but many will find the cost high for a two seater.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re in the market for a two seater sports car you might want to look beyond the recognized competition noted below and test drive the Lexus SC 430 at roughly $60,000. Then when you test-drive the Z, you will really be impressed.

The Competition:

Nissan 350Z $26-34,000, Acura RSX $20-23,000, Audi TT $33-39,000, BMW Z3 $31-38,000, Ford Mustang $18-38,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $18-28,000, Toyota Celica $17-22,000, VW GTI $19-22,000.

Good News:

Unique styling, well priced, fantastic performance.

Bad News:

Unique styling, well priced, fantastic performance.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 287 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, continuously variable valve timing control system, traction control, vehicle dynamic control, limited slip differential, carbon fiber reinforced drive shaft, electronic throttle, stabilizer bars, integrated strut tower brace, 4-wheel abs power disc brakes, electronic brake force distribution, 18 inch aluminum alloy wheels, rear window wiper (no washer), leather, 4-way power heated driver seat, 2-way power heated passenger seat, power windows, locks and heated mirrors, climate control, Bose audio with 6 in dash CD player with 7 speakers, cruise control, Homelink transceiver, trip computer, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, security system with immobilizer system, remote keyless entry, dual air bags, tire pressure monitor and real aluminum interior accents.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $34,000.

2003 Mazda MPV ES Wagon (Minivan) (427)

20-12-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Mazda MPV ES Wagon (Minivan). I didn’t like it in years past but didn’t drive one until the 2000 year model. Interesting pricing comparison below.

I have to tell you I’ve warmed up to this van a lot. I think Mazda was smart to make the two sliding doors power operated as standard equipment on the ES. Plus, they are smart to allow for power windows on the sliders. They go down more than half way and that’s cool.

Another plus is the fold-flat third seat into a hole in the rear that is a great storage area when the seat is up. All things considered this is a very nice alternative to the mass of special purpose vehicles that are so versatile. So in summary, you get the benefits of the very popular SUV with improved fuel economy, a better family vehicle built lower to the ground, equally as good cargo area with the benefit of a lower entry level at the rear and all you give up is the 4 Wheel Drive that 9 out of 10 people will never use anyway.

General Info:

Parts – Japan

Assembly – Hiroshima, Japan

Class: – Special Purpose 2 WD

Cars: – 626, Millennia, MPV, MX5, Protégé, Tribute and Truck.

Handling & Performance:

Very nice. Boy is this one smooooth and so easy to drive. It doesn’t wander around the lane as it tracks true down the highway.

Styling:

Most cars, trucks and SUV’s are very similar in appearance, have great coefficient of friction numbers that simply means they are very aerodynamic in design that sits on a Ford platform.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding.

Cost:

The two top choices in my opinion are this Mazda and the newest entry into this market from South Korea, the Kia Sedona.

Consumer Recommendation:

Price and overall feel I think you should look first at this Mazda and then the Kia Sedona and a third is the Chrysler Voyager. After that you will have a basis for comparison when you look at the more expensive alternatives. Happy hunting.

The Competition: (alphabetically)

Mazda MPV $23-26,000, Chevrolet Venture $21-34,000, Chrysler Voyager $21-24,000, Dodge Caravan $20-35,000, Ford Windstar $21-35,000, Honda Odyssey $24-28,000, Kia Sedona $19-22,000, Nissan Quest $23-27,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $28-36,000, Pontiac Montana $24-34,000, Toyota Sienna $24-28,000.

Year 2000 model Pricing.

Mazda MPV $25,550, Chevrolet Venture $20,650 – $29,190, Dodge Caravan $18,850 – $32,175, Ford Windstar $19,815 – $33,360, Honda Odyssey $23,400 – $26,000, Oldsmobile Silhouette $25,195 – $31,790, Plymouth Voyager $18,685 – $24,080, Toyota Sienna $22,368 – $27,334.

Good News:

Nice styling, smooth ride and simply a great family vehicle.

Bad News:

Only fair gas performance and some will say the spare is inconveniently located and the seats aren’t as comfortable as they should be. (I didn’t change a tire and with AAA I suspect I never would anyway and I thought the seats were fine).

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 200 hp V6 engine, 5-speed automatic trans, front wheel drive, power steering, power front disc with rear drum ABS brakes, traction control, dual front and side air bags, remote keyless entry, power windows, door locks, mirrors and dual sliding doors with power roll down windows, cruise control, seat side table in front (no console, but lots of storage and cup holders), power driver seat, sound system with cassette, variable intermittent wipers and rear wiper washer, tinted glass, 7 passenger seating, antitheft alarm system with immobilizer, leather upholstery and leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, captain chairs front and 2nd row with 3rd row bench seat.

Gas Stats:

18 City and 24 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $27,192.

2003 Kia Sorento 4X4 EX (425)

03-12-2002Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week I drove the 2003 Kia Sorento 4X4 EX model Sport Utility from, of course, South Korea. Wow, is this world shrinking or what? And you know what? Korea is putting out some pretty nice cars. I like this Sorento a lot. It is powerful, looks and rides like the more expensive SUV’s and priced extremely well.

But Korea, you say? OK, I have to admit it entered my mind too. They simply haven’t been around that long as carmakers. But as I’ve watched these cars and driven them all from that country I have gained confidence over the recent past. But more than that feeling I put my money where my mouth was back in the early 1960’s when I bought a “Datsun” station wagon. Japan was a novice in car production then and it was a gamble. We all know how capable Japan proved to be in this market and industry and I have the same feeling about Korea. I can’t wait until we get some good Korean restraints here in America. If you know of any in the Los Angeles area, please email me.

Not only does this SUV look similar to the Acura, it is put together well both inside and out, it is comfortable and overall a nicer SUV than anything in its price range. It was also more responsive than the supercharged Nissan Xterra I’m driving while writing this review. Impressive – Kia.

Handling & Performance:

Powerful 3.5 liter V6 engine makes this one of the peppiest SUV’s out there. And it’s beefy like it’s larger competitors thus the solid ride and expected durability. It doesn’t have ABS so breaking is average.

Styling:

I pulled up to the curb and parked, went into the bank and when I came out I noticed the SUV parked in front of my Kia Sorento was a very expensive Acura MDX. I had to do a “Double-Take” to be sure which was which since the color was very close as well. As I stood there looking from across the street it occurred to me that these were nearly twins in outward design. Boy was I anxious to do the comparison on these two.

Fit and Finish:

As good as they get. Verrrry impressed. Way to go South Korea. Do you ever wonder what North Korea produces? As I recall, there isn’t much north of the 38^th Parallel.

Cost:

Pricing is Spectacular for the vehicle. When this takes hold it is bound to go up in price, so now is the time if you like this as much as I did.

Customer Recommendation:

If you are in the market for an SUV and $24,000 is your price range for a car, this is a fantastic alternative. Trust me, you have to test drive this one. It is well equipped including unseen things like airbags front and rear and 4-wheel disc brakes and quality assembly. And if you’re still concerned about it, you won’t believe the warranty on the power train. Are you ready for this? Ten (10) years or 100,000 miles. None better in the industry.

The Competition: (alphabetically)

Kia Sorento $19-24,000, Chevrolet Blazer $20-26,000, Ford Escape $19-27,000, Honda CR-V $18-22,000, Hyundai Santa FE $17-24,000, Isuzu Rodeo $18-31,000, Jeep Liberty $18-24,000, Land Rover Freelander $25-32,000, Mazda Tribute $18-24,000, Nissan Xterra $18-28,000, Saturn VUE $16-23,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-20,000, Toyota Highlander $24-31,000.

Good News:

Great styling, powerful V6 and very well priced, fantastic power train warranty, great standard equipment package.

Bad News:

Korean’s are new to the automotive world so resale is a big question mark and fuel economy is only fair.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter V6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel disc brakes, power steering with leather wrapped tilt wheel, dual front airbags and front and rear side airbags, car seat anchors, air conditioning, cruise control, power sunroof, power windows and door locks, power mirrors, radio with CD and Cassette players with wheel mounted controls, 8-way power drivers seat with lumbar support, 60/40 split folding rear seats with armrests, keyless remote entry, display for compass, temperature, barometer, roof rack, fog lights, tinted glass, underbody skid plates and lots of storage and center console.

Gas Stats:

15 City and 18 Highway MPG.

Pricing:

MSRP $21,725.

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

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