Tag Archives: 2005

2005 Infiniti G35 4-Door Sedan (562)

31-08-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I had a Nissan Infiniti G35 4-Door Sedan and from the good old days of Datsun to the good old days today Nissan has been a great product. Being in the foreign car repair business for many years you get a sense of what cars slip under the radar. This is one of those cars. You don’t hear a lot of talk about repairs needed for Nissan products.

So I guess you have to begin paying attention to what you don’t hear. You know, like when a tree falls in the forest and there is no one there does it make a noise?

This car immediately felt like a BMW inside controls, for example, to me – and outside lines are classy. Since buying that 66 Datsun in 65 I have watched them and like what I see. Toyota – Look out!

Public Service driving observation: Always give yourself ample room between you and the car in front of you. Smart cruise control on some cars gives you a good sense of what we too often forget because of all the distractions – something a computer doesn’t have.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Japan

Class: – Compact

Cars: FX, G35, M, Q45 and QX56

Handling & Performance:

Really great because not only is it fast it is smoothly fast. This is a fun car to drive. Vehicle Dynamic Control uses an array of sensors to determine your steered path and help keep you in control. If you understeer or over steer (fishtail) it applies appropriate brake pressure to individual wheels and control engine output to hold your intended direction. Traction control senses wheel spin and reduces engine output to the slipping wheels. Amazing! The limited slip differential enhances overall traction by managing the speed and torque differences between drive wheels to minimize wheel spin that is most important in rain, snow or mud conditions.

It will be a while before other carmakers put important technological features that are standard on this car.

Styling:

This is a lovely looking automobile. I liked the wheels and was pleased to overhear some young men saying “Nice Wheels”. Not to me and they didn’t know I could hear them and that’s what was cool – knowing others had the same opinion. I guess we like to be validated. Thanks guys.

The signature analog clock is a nice touch – Funny how you notice the small things when they are classy and unique. Everyone else is digital this and that, but the departure from a digital clock is smart.

Fit and Finish:

Wonderful. This product just gets better every time I test drive one. My friend Sergio works at Nissan and I get the sense it is also a good company to work for. And it stands to reason that people who work for the company will do a better job if they like the team. That’s what makes winners. Kudos’ to all the Nissan team.

Cost:

I guessed it right on the nose. After a while I can pretty much guess within a thousand or two what the car will cost. This one was easy and I feel it is worth the money.

Conveniences:

You won’t see all the great stuff but you’ll feel it in the ride and handling. This is a very well appointed car befitting its overall quality. It’s obvious they pulled out all the stops.

Consumer Recommendation:

This has been a favorite of mine and now the styling improvements in my opinion make it one of the cars of the year in my book.

The Competition:

2005 Infiniti G35 $30-33,000, 2005 Subaru Legacy $21-29,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $26-54,000, Lexus ES 330 $32,000, Audi A4 $26-44,000, Saab 9-3 $27-43,000, Volkswagen Passat $22-30,000, Lexus IS 300 $30-31,000, Jaguar X-Type $30-31,000, Nissan 350Z $27-37,000, Acura TL $33-35,000, Acura TSX $27-29,000, BMW 3-Series $30-36,000, Chrysler 300 $24-40,000, Cadillac CTS $31-51,000,Volvo S40 $24-28,000.

Good News:

Great design, well put together, fun to drive, just the right size, a bunch of standard stuff that is really cool and not bad fuel economy either.

Bad News:

Ok, so this may be a car with too many things and too smart for its own britches. I had a little glitch in the electrical … like the car quit running. But it was something simple.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 298 hp V6 front engine with continuous variable valve timing control, 6-speed manual transmission with rear wheel drive, independent front and rear sport tuned suspension with 4-wheel power assisted anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), viscous limited slip differential, engine speed sensitive power steering, VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), traction control and Cruise control. Xenon headlights with integrated fog lights, 18 inch aluminum alloy wheels, power heated outside mirrors, audio system with 6-in dash CD with MP3 playback, illuminated steering wheel audio controls, leather seats with heated front seats and 8-way power adjustments on the drivers seat – 4-way on the passenger seat, aluminum trim, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power windows with auto up and down, climate control, temp and compass display, illuminated visor mirrors, folding rear center armrest with pass through, cargo net and tie down anchors, dual front and side air bags, roof mounted curtain side impact air bags front and rear, child anchors and tethers, remote keyless entry, security system with immobilizer and tire pressure monitor system with warning light.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $30,600.

2005 Ford Focus Sedan ZX5 SES 5-Passenger (560)

10-08-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re testing the 2005 Ford Focus ZX5 SES 5-passenger sedan. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told my kids about the world condition of oil and it’s time to dump the gas burners and buy a fuel-efficient car. Well you can tell kids, but you can’t tell them much.

Well you can imagine I was thrilled to see this Ford has achieved 32 highway miles per gallon. Gas that is. And I will share with you one more time; the Europeans achieve much more in their clean diesel burning cars. What’s the matter with us in the US? Are we whacko? Don’t get me started.

This is a redesigned Focus and a great job to get it more car like than original versions. I liked the idea but the execution of the design was ugly. This, while being much better, is commonplace.

I did experience an unusual problem. It had a sticky gas pedal. It was annoying and I couldn’t determine why it was doing it but the linkage had to be hanging up somewhere.

Public Service driving observation: Occasionally I notice something I have to share with my readers. This thought is about your seat belts. Don’t listen to the politically correct folks who tell you to “Click it or Tick-it”. Be knowledgeable and understand why you need to buckle up. The real reason is that if you get into an accident and are not wearing a seatbelt the air bag may cause the opposing forces to break your neck. Look after number one and you will demand the same for your passengers.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – n/a

Class: – Compact

Cars: Crown Victoria, Escape, Escape Hybrid, E-series Van and wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer and sport trac, F150, F250, F350, Focus and wagon, 500, Freestar, Freestyle, GT, Mustang, Ranger, Taurus and wagon and T-Bird.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding for a car that will cost about $17,000. How do they do that? And even though it is only 136 horsepower it is a great family car or commuter. I always appreciate the smaller turning radius easy to park yet big enough for the rare moments I carry more than me to and fro.

Styling:

Not all that good. Boring is a better term. Basic also comes to mind. But then I’ve heard that a lot from folks who are big on Chrysler because they have the balls to be different. This is a redesign for Ford and I believe it is a step up from the previous models.

Fit and Finish:

Average for this class car. The gaps and seams will be less precise than more expensive cars in most cases but in its class it is good.

Cost:

I told my sister, Carol dump those gas-guzzling bombs and buy a more cost efficient car (to buy and to operate) or quit complaining the Corvette and El Camino are expensive to operate.

Conveniences:

Quite good and common for the class with a lot of manual stuff. Air conditioning and seats to name a couple. Then I was amazed it had crank windows. I glanced over and found someone riding in the car with me groping around to put the windows down. You just don’t see cranks much any more.

Consumer Recommendation:

Get a grip. For the money this is a great commuter, an inexpensive fuel-efficient family car and easy to get in and go. You may also want to look at the wagon and hatchback models.

The Competition:

Ford Focus $13-18,000, Chevrolet Cavalier $10-18,000, Pontiac Sunfire $11-15,000, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Subaru Impreza $18-32,000, Dodge Neon $14-21,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-15,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Saturn ION $11-21,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, VW Golf $16-20,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $14-35,000, Suzuki Aerio $13-17,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Kia Optima $16-20,000.

Good News:

Low cost to purchase and operate, comfortable ride for 5 adults.

Bad News:

Plain Jane design that is uninteresting and harder to fall in love with. Me, I’ve concluded the homely ones are often the best – know what I mean? Oh, almost forgot to note it had a sticky gas pedal.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 136 hp inline 4 cyl engine, 4-speed auto trans, dual power mirrors, rear wiper washer and defrost, solar tinted glass, fog lights, air conditioning, manual seat height adjusters, 60/40 split folding rear seat, console with 3 cup holders, map light, sound system with CD player, tilt and telescoping leather wrapper steering wheel, remote lift gate release, front wheel drive, independent suspension, front disc and rear drum brakes, power rack and pinion steering, power windows and locks, cruise control, dual air bags, child safety rear door locks, antitheft system and remote keyless entry.

Gas Stats:

26 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,905.

2005 Hummer H2 (558)

27-07-2005Autolove No comments

2005 Hummer H2
Overview:
This week we’re stepping into the 2005 Hummer H2 that reminds me how much I’m looking forward to comparing it and other SUVs to the H3. They just hit the press fleet and I’m scheduling one now.

I always enjoy driving this special vehicle, beginning with the original H1 Alpha that was slightly adjusted for street use right from Desert Storm. It is unique in the whole world that is so populated with commonplace everything that can be so boring. This will add a little spice to your life. You also don’t get much better for off road confidence. The wide track gives that feeling of stability. Surely I don’t get that feeling in other high profile SUVs. You do get that feeling you can take on all the terrorist single handed, even if your name isn’t John Rambo.

I took the time to go the long way from the high desert to Los Angeles. Up over the San Gabriel mountains (via Sand Canyon) and you’d be impressed. I didn’t hold back and felt very comfortable even in turns at 30 mph over recommended speeds. It is amazingly sure footed for such a big guy.

Public Service item: Occasionally I notice something I have to share with my readers. Ok, so you’ll say that I have a keen sense of the obvious but here goes anyway. A simple driving tip and common courtesy to avoid “Road Rage” is that if you find you are “Not” passing cars in the lane to your right, you should move into that lane. That prevents those traveling faster than you from having to pass on the right. I’ve gotta tell you, if you’ve ever driven the roads in Europe, you know what I mean. They have to be the most aware and polite drivers in the world. I’ve driven in some of Asia and much of Europe. I love European drivers.

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Mishawaka, Indiana, USA

Class: – Special Purpose – SUV

Cars: H1 Alpha, H2 and H3

Handling & Performance:

This is more practical than the H1 because it is a full foot narrower so it actually fits in a usual parking space and making it generally easier to maneuver. It also rides really well. I took the H1 up to Las Vegas to deliver a large piece of equipment and forgot my kidney belt. Not a good thing. So this H2 was a welcomed change and improvement on the handling characteristics of the H1. The H2 is also very fast and that means it will suck up gas like it were cheaply abundant. The range, of course, is still 300 miles as is common with all cars. They simply provide a gas tank big enough for the cars performance that will give it a range of 300 miles. For the guzzlers the tank just get bigger.

Styling:

Unique. Your Hummer won’t be confused with any other car on the planet. That’s why I believe it is so popular. What a fluke… from the Desert Storm short war to the streets. Only in America.

Fit and Finish:

Rugged. But this H2 is more refined than the original H1 as you’d expect. When the H2 hit the scene you knew it would become more SUV’ish and the trend continues with the H3.

Cost:

It will set you back half of the price of the H1 so it goes to show you that the more extreme the higher the price tag. So is this just a wanna-be Hummer? For most people they won’t see much difference except the cost is half of the original.

Conveniences:

Typical of most SUVs. It is equipped however with equipment to allow it to cross water up to the doors, or past the wheel wells. You can do that in a passenger car but not guaranteed.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you want to be different, do off roading for fun or necessity, tower over other traffic and come out on top in case of an accident and finally don’t care what the cost of moving a truck this size you can’t help wanting one of these Hummers. You can’t be disappointed because there isn’t really anything to compare it too. You’re all alone in a sea of sameness. And you’ll sit tall in the saddle Cowboy!

The Competition:

VW Touareg $37-58,000, Hummer H2 $52,000, Cadillac Escalade $54-70,000, Lincoln Aviator $41-44,000, GMC Yukon Denali $50-52,000, Audi Allroad quattro $40-47,000, Land Rover LR3 $38-49,000, Volvo XC90 $35-45,000, Acura MDX $37-44,000, BMW X5 $42-70,000, Infiniti FX $35-46,000, Porsche Cayenne $41-89,000, Lexus GX 470 $46,225, Mercedes M-Class $40-49,000.

Good News:

Unique driving experience, superior off road ability, great sound system and it is cost competitive. Great if you want a war fortress in the sense that Sports Cars are like Jet fighter cockpits and V-Dubs are rather cutsie and trucks and sedans are serviceable.

Bad News:

Horrible gas-guzzler

Standard Equipment:

6.0 liter 325 hp V8 engine, 4-speed auto trans, 3-piece ‘ladder’ type frame, indep front suspension with torsion bars, coil spring rear suspension, electronic transfer case, electronic locking rear differential, traction contool, front and rear recovery loops, dual front air bags, remote keyless entry, 4-wheel disc brakes, auto headlight control, theft deterrent system, onstar system one year included, leather seating, 8-way power heated front seats with driver memory, fold flat 2nd row heated seats, rear seat audion controls, triple sealed doors, driver information center, leather wrapped tilt steering wheel, stereo with CD and cassette players, Bose premium speaker system, heated power folding mirrors, front winch receiver, underbody production, class II trailer hitch.

Gas Stats:

”Horrible” City and “Not much Better” Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $52,430.

2005 Volkswagen Touareg SUV (557)

20-07-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2005 Volkswagen Touareg SUV. Classy is the first words to come to mind when looking at this SUV. And although I like SUV’s like most of my readers I resist recommending them because of the impending fuel fiasco.

15-20 real miles per gallon is unacceptable, so sending the message to the carmakers means consumers will have to buy Hybrids to push the demand up. That’s the only way we can speed up the development of alternatives to using fossil fuels. As long as we accept the cost of gas carmakers will never put money into research in the way they would if sales of “Gas Hogs” sag in a serious way.

Ok, enough stumping on this issue. Let’s assume you don’t give a damn about the extra $1,200 per year (average of 15,000 miles per year at $2.65 per gal.), then this is one of the finest SUVs on the market for 2005. Incidentally, Motor Trend awarded it Sports Utility of the year if you give any weight to awards like that. Me, I believe magazines like that grant such awards based as much on the advertising budget from that car or truck company. Cynical? I suppose, but it’s true no matter what they tell you about the separation of the Editorial and Advertising departments. (Note: I owned two newspapers for a time – but of course we would never be influenced by how much Coors Brewing, for example, spent at our paper).

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 1%, Germany 80%.

Assembly – Bratislava, Slovakia

Class: – SUV

Cars: – Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, Phaeton, R-32 and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

Braking should be fantastic with all the various assist programs but I must say I didn’t feel any difference. But it sounds good, eh? Seriously though, the ESP and brake assist programs make safe handling as good as cars can be today.

Styling:

Cream of the crop. It’s a VW but it is as strong a luxury competitor as any on the market.

Fit and Finish:

It’s the tops.

Cost:

Strongly competitive with all the standard features that are mechanically significant. Very nice and they’ve done it at a decent price.

Conveniences:

It sounds simple but I came to appreciate a subtle feature provided with the turn indicator. You can tap and release it and the signal is actuated for three flashes which is just enough for those gentle movements in lane changes or exiting the freeway.

Consumer Recommendation:

If available in your country, you may want to consider the V6 TDI version for better fuel and operating economy.

The Competition:

Good News:

Well-appointed and well put together, nice turning signal feature for 3 flashes with a tap, several safety conscious features.

Bad News:

Lousy fuel economy, spendy but priced well in the company it keeps.

Standard Equipment:

3.2 liter 240 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, permanent 4-wheel drive, ESP Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Anti lock braking system, Engine Braking Assist (EBA), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), Anti Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), inflatable spare tire with compressor, Dual front and side airbags with side curtain airbags, child rear anchors and door locks, climate control, power heated mirrors, rain sensors and heated washer nozzles, in-dash CD player, cruise control, 5 12-volt power outlets, adjustable roof rack, Aluminum and wood interior, adjustable steering column, leather wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry, auto headlights with daytime running lights, vehicle alarm and theft deterrent system, homelink, heated front seats, power glass sunroof, 17” alloy wheels, and 24 hour roadside assistance.

Gas Stats:

16 City and 21 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $37,140.

2005 Volkswagen GTI (556)

13-07-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

Ok, so after I drove the Jaguar XJR I knew I’d have to return to the real world. But thanks to VW I got to have a fun week driving the very agile Volkswagen GTI. I like speed so the Turbo was great and I even got to pass a lot more gas stations than with the Jag that got a whopping 21 mpg on a good day.

Contrasted to the Jag’s Supercharged engine the GTI employs a Turbocharger for boost. Well some folks will be annoyed with the head snapping when the turbo kicks in. Of course the annoyance would be worse f you didn’t have the extra boost. Have you noticed there are always tradeoffs in life? It’s a constant balancing act to give and take. And one of those trade offs is that when it comes to $3.00 plus a gallon of gas size, luxury, simplicity of this GTI allows you to stop less frequently to fill up the gas tank.

When you put transportation into perspective and you consider you can buy FOUR GTI’s for the price of admission for the Jag I tested last week, you have to ask yourself – “is the luxury really worth the difference in cost?”

The added fuel economy reminds me that I tend to drive more in a fuel-efficient car. You may say that I’m spending just as much therefore, but you know what? I also get to go more places, see more things and visit with more people when I’m not as concerned about spending so much on fuel. I guess that comes from remembering when I paid $.20 (that’s 20 cents) for a gallon of gas when I was a teen.

The contrast is obviously very great between the two cars I refer to here, so it’s easy to reflect on the relative value. Surely I got to and from my destinations in the same time with the GTI, and although the comfort level is noticeable, I don’t believe it is worth the $60,000 more. That is, unless you light your cigars with $100 bills.

General Info:

Parts – US/ Canadian 1%, Germany 36%, Brazil 30% Engine – Hungary, Transmission – Argentina.

Assembly – Curitiba, Brazil

Class: – Compact

Cars: – Golf, GTI, Jetta, Beetle, Passat, Phaeton, R-32 and Touareg.

Handling & Performance:

This is a fun car to drive. It is fast because of the turbo that keeps you in the front of the race. Zippy. If you like rides at Magic Mountain or other favorite theme park, you’ll appreciate the easy snappy response of driving a Turbocharged car of this size.

Styling:

Clean lines and not hard to like because it is pretty conventional.

Fit and Finish:

Good. Most current V-Dubs have made components bulky to the feel and touch. Early models were much more flimsy and delicate. I’ve owned at least 3 VW’s and the 1963 Carmen Ghia we bought new was a neat car but they were extremely simple cars then. Those were the no frills days.

Cost:

Competitively priced especially considering the generous standard equipment package.

Conveniences:

Well appointed for the car and compared to the competition.

Consumer Recommendation:

All competitors in this class are very close. All are great transportation cars sensibly priced. The Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra top my list but this VW is a close third.

The Competition:

VW GTI $20-22,000, Subaru Impreza $18-32,000, Ford Mustang $19-31,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $14-21,000, Saturn ION $11-21,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Mazda RX-8 $25-32,000, Acura TSX $27-29,000, Hyundai Tiburon $16-20,000.

Good News:

Decent fuel economy, well-equipped, nice quality / durable components, and you will be pleased with the comfort of this little car.

Bad News:

Turbo can be annoying when it kicks in. Seats are difficult to adjust, in my opinion.

Standard Equipment:

1.8 liter 180 hp turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, ABS disc brake system, electronic differential lock, power steering, torsion beam rear sport suspension, dual front and side airbags, child anchors, daytime running lights, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, power heated mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, front and rear intermittent wipers, adjustable sport seats with easy rear entry, split folding rear seats, remote fuel and hatch releases, radio with in dash CD and Cassette players, leather wrapped steering wheel and anti theft alarm system.

Gas Stats:

24 City and 31 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $19,510.

2005 Jaguar XJR (555)

05-07-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

Oh – my – gawd! “Yeah it’s me and I’m in love again…” Can’t you just hear the melody and maybe even more of the lyrics come back to you. If this 2005 Jaguar XJR isn’t one of the sexiest cars on the planet, I’m not Italian. What did you say mom, my father was who? OK, so you tell me. Is this a sexy car or what?

Many will not agree that Ford has been a positive influence on the production of today’s Jaguars. Ok, so it was Norm, my friend who has owned a few of these lovely “Cats” who challenged my opinion. Norm sites his personal experience that he never had a problem with any of his Jags.

For my part I go with the experience brother John and I had in owning a foreign car repair shop for about 15 years. Jags were as bad as FIAT’s from Italy. Remember what F – I – A – T stands for. Fix It Again Tony! Well the Brits were as bad. BMW was also a mechanics dream. One other that tops the list is the Audi. These four car brands seemed most troublesome for our customers. It was good for the repair business but bad for the auto industry generally. That situation has improved greatly over the past couple of decades.

I feel there has been a big change in today’s Jag, thanks Ford, no matter what Norm says.

I drive a lot of nice cars but somehow this weeks ride inspired me to want to get out to the theatre to see Wagner (Vaaag-nerr) at the Hollywood bowl with friends. Richard, Carol, Laura and I found that we were more impressed with the car, the two buck Chuck and KFC than the music. But in the final analysis it’s the people we share with that are most important. The LA Philharmonic is wonderful, but it was not one of those inspiring performances in spite of the wonderful summer California evening in one of the most lovely of settings.

Handling & Performance:

Spectacular. Better than sex. You’ll look forward with childish enthusiasm to driving somewhere – anywhere. In fact you’ll make excuses why you should go some place. Not only will you ride in style, you’ll get to the theatre in a flash. This is a Supercharged smoother than snot fast piece of machinery. Hold me back!

But you can’t hold the Supercharger back. By its nature it provides an instant off the line power surge. You’ll remember the difference between Supercharging and Turbocharging is that Superchargers run off the engine by way of a belt and pulley like your alternator or air conditioning pump. The Turbocharger operates off of a turbine powered by the exhaust. So the Turbocharger gives a surge only after RPM’s get high enough to generate the force. That can be annoying.

Styling:

Traditional and therefore identifiable Jaguar styling. Perhaps this is one of the most recognizable of luxury cars. And one of the reasons is the consistent design principle they have followed for many years. In a world of sharp lines and edges, this Jag has held to its unique rounded curves we’ve come to recognize. It is simply a very elegant design that makes you feel special too.

But I’ve got a couple of complaints. The sun visors in this Jag do not extend. To Jag and every other carmaker who make the visors too short – shame on you. The other bitch is the way they’ve designed the front seats. The sides of the seat bottom are too narrow and annoyingly uncomfortable.

Fit and Finish:

Norm says it isn’t as good as before. It’s a Foooooord. Sorry Norm I don’t buy it. And what’s more this is still built in Great Britain – I suspect by the same guys and gals who assembled Norm’s Jags when the company was totally British.

Cost:

Lots! You don’t get away cheap for all this luxury, performance and especially image that will set you back the average price of most houses in this country. For everything else you can use your Visa card.

Conveniences:

Everything your little heart can imagine is at your car driving fingertips. Perhaps the most useful and memorable is the laser assisted smart Cruise Control. They refer to it as adaptive. Whatever you call it, it should be required standard equipment in every car that’s made.

Consumer Recommendation:

Wow – when you look at the company this Jag keeps it is very impressive and you wonder if it is out of class. I’ve driven all except this Maserati and no matter the cost this Jag is distinguished. The Phaeton is (was – it is discontinued) technically a Bentley but must overcome the fact it is built by Volkswagen. I don’t believe it ever can do that, even though it is at the top of my picks of this list.

The Competition:

Jaguar XJ Series $61-90,000, Maserati Quattroporte $95,500, Infiniti Q45 $56,400, Audi A8 $67-117,000, Volvo S80 $36-49,000, VW Phaeton $67-96,000, Lexus LS 430 $56,225, Acura RL $49,100, Mercedes S-Class $65-169,000, BMW 7-Series $71-117,000.

Good News:

Classy, undeniably as smooth a ride as you’ll ever feel, faaaast, great smart cruise control.

Bad News:

Front seats are uncomfortable; sun visors are too short.

Standard Equipment:

4.2 liter 390 hp supercharged V8 engine, 6-speed auto trans, adaptive cruise control, air suspension, speed sensitive steering, power Brembo four piston disc brakes, front and side air bags and side curtain airbags, remote entry and security system, 16 way power driver seat, dynamic stability control, Alpine 320 watt audio system with 7-CD changer, heated front seats and steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, self dim power fold mirrors.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 24 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $76,330.

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

2005 Chevrolet Malibu LS Maxx (554)

29-06-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
Ok, back to my past and a car I owned when the model was new. Mine was a 1967 Yellow with a Black top. Two door hardtop. It’s nice to see that 2005 finds the Chevrolet Malibu still on the scene with the new LS Maxx.

My neighbor friend Carol said she wanted her mom to buy a Malibu. Husband Richard has been a Chevy kind of cowboy and owned a Malibu in his younger days too. Well Carol’s mom ended up buying a Fooooooord. You can tell parents, but you can’t tell them much.

I have had so much good fortune with the many Chevrolets I’ve owned since my very first car – a 1934 Chevrolet coupe with a rumble seat. Wow, $50 and I worked it off painting with my dad. Thanks dad. I can still feel the busted knuckles changing the gears in the transmission that I broke learning to shift. But for you who have owned classic cars that are original you are acutely aware there was a time when Syncro-mesh transmissions weren’t invented yet. By the way, “These” (2000 and beyond) are the good old days when it comes to cars. Today the interval for a tune up is 100,000 miles – back then you were lucky to get 100 miles before the engine needed attention. We’ve come a long way baby. GM probably had more to do with the growth in automotive technology than any other company in the world.

General Info:

Parts –

Assembly – Kansas City, Kansas USA

Class: – Large

Cars: Astro, Avalanche, Aveo, Blazer, Cavalier, Cobalt, Colorado, Corvette, Equinox, Express, Express Cargo Van, Impala, Malibu, Malibu Maxx, Monte Carlo, Silverado 1500,2500,3500 and Hybrid, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Trail Blazer, Uplander and Venture.

Do you think GM can squeeze in a few more models? Just kidding of course. Do you think too many models may be a part of the reason they are experiencing sales problems in the beginning of the 21st century.

Suggestion: Cut some of the models and do better on the remaining models. On the other hand I was disappointed when GM decided to dump the Oldsmobile line.

Handling & Performance:

This is a no nonsense car that does it all pretty well. It is powerful – 200 hp – and yet it does it while achieving 30 highway miles per gallon. Pretty good for a 5-seat sedan.

Styling:

Well, I like the styling and the research I did on consumers seems to agree. It looks like a lot more expensive sedan and finds itself classed with smaller, less expensive cars.

Fit and Finish:

Very good even when compared to the company it keeps.

Cost:

Well priced until you consider the Nissan Sentra and the Honda Civic which are priced less. This is real tough competition.

Conveniences:

The fold flat seats are a bit unusual for a family sedan, but they are a nice touch. Although it comes standard with a nice complement of features, you can fork out another $3,200 to add side air bags and head curtain side air bags, rear audio controls with headphones, 6-way power driver seat, “Remote Vehicle Starter system”, DVD entertainment system, XM Satellite radio with over 130 channels and AM/FM with 6-disc CD player to replace standard radio.

For those who live or travel to places with extreme weather conditions (cold or hot) the Remote starter system is pretty cool. From the comfort of your house you can start the car remotely so it will be nice and toasty or cooled when you’re ready to leave.

Consumer Recommendation:

Although this is a standout among the competition as a small looking but big and roomy sedan, I would look hard at the Honda Civic. Smaller but it will impress you for the money. I believe the Accord is a closer competitor than the Civic, however.

The Competition:

Chevrolet Malibu Maxx $21-25,000, Pontiac Grand Am $23-24,000, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Dodge Stratus $19-23,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-15,000, Honda Civic $13-22,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, VW Jetta $18-24,000.

Good News:

Roomy family sedan, good fuel economy.

Bad News:

I didn’t sense any problems.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 200 hp V6 engine, 4-speed auto trans, dual front air bags, 4-wheel ABS brakes w/traction control, theft deterrent immobilizer, auto headlights, battery rundown protection, power outside mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and locks, power steering with tilt and telescopic wheel, cruise control, stereo with CD player, power driver seat, fold flat passenger seat, power pedal adjustment and driver information system.

Gas Stats:

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $21,465.

2005 Saab 9-2X Aero 5-Door Sedan (552)

15-06-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week finds us desperately seeking sanity in transportation cost. Ok, so we didn’t quite find it, but we came closer. Until we see pump prices so obnoxious we can’t stand it, we will simply pony up to the cost as necessary. Well, it isn’t necessary, and yes, there are alternatives.

As you probably know, Saab is now a GM company, and marriages such as this, I believe, are good for both the company and also good for the consumer. Those who like Swedish cars will be happy to see the innovations and improvements from that marriage and that are inevitable. It’s too soon to tell what changes GM will make but we’ll see it happen – count on it. Another example of this is the purchase of Jaguar by Ford. The Jag has never been a better car. Ford retained the styling but improved it mechanically. It is simply a better automobile. We’ll talk more about the Jag in the coming weeks because I’m testing one as I’m writing this.

The 9-2X sits on a WRX frame and it makes sense it would be assembled in Japan – and it is.

General Info:

Parts – Japan 100%

Assembly – Ota, Gunma, Japan

Class: – Small station wagon

Cars: – 9-2X, 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X

Handling & Performance:

I found it a little rough riding (reminiscent of the WRX – surprise, surprise). The turning radius was much longer than I expected for a small car.

Styling:

Saab has never been my favorite styling attempt, but you have to admit it is unique. It’s just a little too busy for me and when I tested the WRX I found it more adapted to the younger generation. It reminds me of those small modern rods racing in and out of traffic on the freeways. Zip zip zip. And the driver is this little person scrunched down below the window peering over the steering wheel racing another small but soup’d up bumper car. I think they’ve been playing too many video games.

Fit and Finish:

The Swedes have consistently done a good job over the years because they have been put together like custom cars. They are meticulous perfectionists and now with the Japanese building it, coupled with the business prowess of GM, this should make for an interesting future for the Saab.

Cost:

This is, like the WRX, a youthful design for those with more money in their car-buying budgets. But it’s only money and at the end of the day, you don’t have to sell your firstborn or mortgage your future to own one. $25-30,000 today is pretty commonplace for a mid-range quality automobile.

When you consider transportation options there are cars that cost a third the cost of this Saab and that puts commuting into perspective. However, practicality aside, and ego firmly in place you’ll find reasons why $30,000 is acceptable.

Conveniences:

Well equipped, but you’ll pay.

Consumer Recommendation:

The Swedes are known for building safety conscious cars, which hasn’t and likely won’t change with the ownership change. The addition of AWD is a decidedly positive change and being built in Japan will assure continued quality in assembly. I don’t see any substance to the concerns dealers had with the “thinly disguised Subaru” connection. Japanese built / American owned is a good thing in my opinion.

The Competition:

Saab 9-2X $23-28,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback $17-19,000, Volvo V50 $26-29,000, Subaru Impreza Wagon $18-26,000, VW Jetta Wagon $19-22,000, Lexus IS 300 SportCross $31,105, BMW 3-series Sport Wagon $31-33,000, Mazda3 $14-19,000, Mazda6 Sport Wagon $23-27,000, Audi A4 Avant $29-36,000, Ford Focus Wagon $17-18,000.

Good News:

Quality custom history enhanced by anticipated volume increase with Subaru / GM influence, fair fuel economy, AWD traction is standard, good cargo area, fast fun to drive turbocharged power and well equipped.

Bad News:

Stiff ride, pricey, upscale Subaru and irritating acceleration lag from the turbocharger (Supercharger would eliminate that problem).

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged 227 horsepower engine, 5-speed manual trans, all wheel drive, 4-wheel sport tuned independent suspension, 4-wheel abs disc brakes, security system, dual front and head side air bags in front, climate control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, audio system with 6-indash CD player/ changer, rear wiper and defogger, dual power mirrors, rear roof spoiler, functional hood scoop.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,950.

2005 PT Cruiser Touring Convertible Turbo (550)

01-06-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I took a vacation from the heavy work requiring a truck. This 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Convertible begs for a trip to the beach. And for me, who has owned several convertibles, I can vouch for how solid this one is. It was built AS a convertible so you won’t feel the twisting gyrations so common in convertibles. It was most noticeable to me in the 1967 Camaro and then again in the 1990 Camaro I owned and “Loved” by the way.

As to this PT Cruiser, you’ve gotta love this example of how America continues to lead the way in true creativity in making our love of the automobile easy even after the honeymoon was over. For over a hundred years after America gave birth to the best method of transportation of the 20th century we still embrace the relationship. Perhaps that has to do with how people collectively have contributed to the automobiles evolutionary growth. We all made the automobile what it is today. From the very beginning buyer’s have loved to tinker and that caused manufacturers to put consumer ideas into action on the drawing board and on through the production line. That made those back yard modifications and designs cost effective. This PT Cruiser is a perfect example of that marriage between the consumer and the auto industry.

Handling & Performance:

Wonderful. The Turbo makes it fast, and the ride is ultra smooth and comfortable. It takes the wrinkles out of the road. The steering is perfect and overall performance reflects its name. It is indeed a cruiser.

Styling:

It is apparent many like, as do I, the styling of this example of the best of “Retro”. But because of the design, the trunk is obnoxiously difficult to use. Ok, so I could live with it.

Just to prove Old Habits are hard to change, I must complain about the placement of the window controls. They are in the center of the dash and I still prefer them on the door, where they belong. My first thought was, “What’s this all about?” I seems to be an obvious effort to be different. But the car is already different, so why do such a dumb thing.

Another quickly noticeable flaw is the bad visibility. I don’t know how they could have made it better, but that’s what we pay them for, right? Of course, with the top down peripheral and rear view is totally unobstructed.

When they decided on the color combos, someone must have been humming the song that goes, “Blue, blue, my world is blue, blue is my world, now I’m without yoooou”.

Fit and Finish:

Outstanding. But I have to tell you, the high beams didn’t work but I don’t get excited about the small stuff because I don’t think it went any further than a bad fuse. “But it was assembled in Mexico”, you say. Ok, so that was my first thought too. VW Beetle and several other cars are also assembled in Mexico, so we can’t make that assumption.

Cost:

Better than I thought was possible. Chrysler has been smart in making this link to the past affordable to many.

Conveniences:

Very good.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re into Retro this is the cheapest “Rod” you could ever buy. This is a great example of a ready to go Rod that is not only classy and fun but also new and reliable. I’ll bet you have considered buying one of these if you are old enough for it to launch you back in time to the “Good old days” when these original designs graced our roads. And today, this is the best of the bunch of competition in terms of being original. Go for it.

Oh, by the way I consider the MINI Cooper a close second.

The Competition:

PT Cruiser $14-28,000, Pontiac Vibe $17-20,000, Ford Mustang $19-31,000, Subaru Forester $21-28,000, Chrysler Sebring $19-31,000, MINI Cooper $17-25,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $20-30,000, Toyota RAV4 $19-20,000, VW Beetle $17-25,000, VW Golf $16-20,000, Honda CR-V $20-25,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18-23,000, Toyota Matrix $15-19,000 Honda Element $17-22,000.

Good News:

Wonderful handling, fast turbo, great retro design, decent mileage and great convertible top operation.

Bad News:

Poor visibility, poorly placed window controls and lousy trunk space.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 4 cylinder Turbo generating 220 horsepower, 5-speed manual transmission, dual front and side air bags, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, traction control, power rack and pinion steering, sport suspension with front stabilizer bar, rear window defroster, air conditioning, tilt steering column, power windows, power driver’s seat, stereo with cassette and CD players and 6 speakers, easy entry system with tip and slide seats, front and rear auxiliary 12 volt power outlets, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel, power locks, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent system / security alarm, convertible boot top cover, power convertible top, quad halogen headlights, power mirrors and fog lights.

Gas Stats:

21 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $27,830.

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

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon 4-wheel drive Pick up (549)

25-05-2005Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week I needed another pickup truck for the ranch, so I’m reviewing the results of the week with the 2005 Dodge Power Wagon with a Hemi Magnum V8. Not juice (V8) but it has plenty of that anyway. It’s a regular cab model and built for work.

My friend Lev is a high desert cowboy and hard work and hard working trucks impress guys like him. And yes they still exist outside of Hollywood movies like Lonesome Dove and Open Range.

Well Lev, I liked it a lot too because it was a great help. Off to Home Depot and Lowe’s for a load of brick and redi-mix cement. As the forklift lowered a pallet of used brick the bed went down like an elevator. Ground floor! Time to leave so I could return for a ton of cement. Boy, it sure did steer easy cruising down the highway. Lev was also impressed with the built in Winch with a half-inch metal cable and a “sky hook” that would pull a house. The remote control allows you to operate the winch from inside as well as outside the vehicle. It sure empowers you knowing that in addition to the 4-wheel drive you could pull yourself out of any other trouble off road. I could have used one on the Hummer H1 that I tested and managed to get stuck in the mud. It was an old Chevy Blazer with a “Winch” to the rescue that day to pull a $100,000 Hum Vee out of the mud. How embarrassing that was.

Anyway, this Power Wagon was also a big help picking up downed fencing around the ranch, but I made a slight modification to this beauty by mistake. Loading boards was going great right up till the load went high enough to reach the rear window. You got it! I’m sure you can picture that last board sliding smoothly as I watched it shatter the rear window into a million pieces. My fault, not the trucks. But it did lead me to wonder if there weren’t a way to provide for such operator stupidity.

Handling & Performance:

Actually pretty wonderful. Men can take hard work a lot easier and even enjoy it when they have a powerful helpmate like this truck.

Styling:

No one does it better than Dodge. They just have that look of capable, strong, powerful and better looking than it should be. That massive grill makes the statement complete.

Fit and Finish:

Very good and once again better than a truck needs to be. For a real ranch application they could also lose the rug. It doesn’t take long to destroy it with normal work use.

Cost:

A lot but it’s a lot of truck too.

Conveniences:

I really liked the winch, but I would have liked to have 110 Power outlets in this Power Wagon.

Consumer Recommendation:

GM, Chrysler and Ford have a long history of making the toughest trucks. You might want to take a look at Toyota and Nissan as well.

The Competition:

Dodge Power Wagon $25-40,000, Ford F250 $23-37,000, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD $24-41,000.

Good News:

Power and strength to haul a real load.

Bad News:

Gas guzzler (35 gal. Std. Equip fuel tank says it all), under rail bed liner looks good but is not as functional as one that covers the rear rail paint.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter Hemi Magnum V8 Engine, 5-speed automatic trans, leather trimmed 40/20/40 bench seat, power drivers seat, airbags with passenger On/Off switch, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, manual shift on the fly 4-wheel drive transfer case, power steering, stabilizer bar, 35 gallon fuel tank, intermittent wipers, trailer tow wiring 4 pin connector, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, overhead console with trip computer, stereo with CD player, cab back storage bin, heated front seats. Optional Equipment: leather wrapped steering wheel, center seat cushion storage, dual zone air controls, deluxe power driver seat, Tru Lok front and rear differentials, aluminum wheels, front electric winch, GVW 8510 lbs rated, clearance lights, tow hooks, fog lights, skid plate shield on transfer case and fuel tank, auto dim rearview mirror, security alarm and theft deterrent system, side air bags, in-dash 6-disc CD changer with 4 additional speakers, rear window defroster, GPS navigation system and under rail bed liner.

Gas Stats:

City and Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,750, with options $43,260

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