Tag Archives: 2006

2006 Mini Cooper

01-10-2012Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Mini Cooper. Jay Leno has been doing jokes about 27 young people jamming into this little car. Remember when that was a big deal in the 1960s with the VW Bug and phone booths? Well this Mini Cooper reminds me a lot of the New Beetle in ride characteristics albeit an even smaller feel.

Friend Ken who owns one says it’s a bucket of bolts after a year. Ken, you can’t be serious. “Ok”, says Ken, “… it’s not that bad but more rattles than I expected”. Owning, driving and repairing European cars for many years I have to wonder if the rattles have anything to do with it being assembled in Britain .

45-55 percent of the Mini Coopers parts are from Great Britain and15-25 percent are from Germany . Its Chrysler/BMW joint-venture Pentagon engine is from Brazil . Final assembly is in Oxford , England , at a plant famous for its Rovers. And the car is sold in America through 56 “BMW Group” dealers.

The standard Cooper, with a base price of $16,850, is powered by a 16-valve 1.6-liter 4-cylinder (115 hp). The Cooper S is $3000 more with a supercharged and intercooled 163 hp engine with a Getrag 6-speed trans.

Interesting Technology –

When you consider this innovation you will come to the same conclusion I did especially if you’re either very old or a student of history. We seem to have come full circle from solid tires to pneumatic tires (invented by John Dunlop 1888) and now back to “kind of” a solid rubber tire again.

Tire reviewer Vince Bodiford (www.theweekenddrive.com) discussed this tire with me recently. Vince says he thinks the Tweel is interesting, but doubts its mass market possibilities. In his article in Consumers Digest he didn’t entirely dismiss the tire, but only mentioned it as a curiosity. He says, “The best new inflation technologies are run-flat tires, and nitrogen-gas inflation instead of air. Run-flat tires offer a margin of safety and “limp home” ability, and nitrogen offers less pressure loss, less interior moisture and it has been used in racing for year. He has concerns with the structure of the Tweel, or any non-pneumatic tire. He points out that gas filled pneumatic tire’s have better vertical and lateral load carrying ability where the load is spread across the mass of the gases very evenly which better supports the tire and provides superior driving dynamics.”

Nice to see tire companies making such bold attempts at change.

MICHELIN LETS THE AIR OUT The Tweel Tire. Exciting New technology.

OF FUTURE TIRE INNOVATION

Handling & Performance:

Solid ride but some feel it’s a little bouncy. I expected and wasn’t disappointed that it was a very BMW-like feel. The supercharged version (the S) will do 0-60 mph in about 6.5 seconds, but I found the regular 4-cylinder very lively. Turning radius is much longer than I expected.

Styling:

When Britain produced the Mini it was a flop in the US but the Brits built and sold over 5 million between 1959 and 2000. BMW bought the rights to the Mini in 1995 and they hit the US market in 2002 with essentially the same design but larger and retaining the front wheel drive. The Pink Panther – Peter Sellers owned 10 of the Brit version and even Beetle Paul McCartney had one. Another interesting note is that fashion designer Mary Quant named her miniskirt after the MINI.

MINI reminds me very much of the Fiat 650. In 1998 I tested a Mercedes and a European built Ford in much of Europe . On the Poland leg I was amazed to see that seemingly every other car was a Fiat but for very practical reasons – $4 per gallon of gas that year while US prices were about 95 cents. In 2006 gas is over $7 per gallon in Europe and half that in the US . Not hard to explain the popularity of the 50 mpg Fiat 650.

Car buffs will recall before it was called the MINI, the badge was Austin or Morris. As kids we joined together and bought a Morris Minor and learned to drive – what a kick.

British race car builder John Cooper called his hot rod version the \”MINI Cooper\” which found favor for today.

Fit and Finish:

Obvious good stuff. It is as different from the original British version as the Old and New VW Beetle.

Cost:

Ok I suppose, but equipped the way I like it the price shoots up to over $23,000.

Conveniences:

Controls should fall easily and naturally to your fingertips. This isn’t the case when designers get creative and cute and fail to consider the practicality of what they’re doing. The toggle switches for the power windows are thoughtlessly placed on the dash where you have to look for them which is distracting. They should be on the doors where you don’t have to fumble around to find them. Accident reconstruction expert Merkel Weiss speaks often about distractions being the primary cause of auto accidents.

The sun visors are useless for blocking the sun on the side. I have to say to BMW those are really stupid!

Consumer Recommendation:

Unless you are nostalgic or just like the ‘pea popper’ small car feel, even the base model at $16,000 is a bit much for 36 mpg. The competition really isn’t – because this MINI is in a class of its own and you wouldn’t buy it for the same reasons you would others listed here. You will also need to consider the limited (impractical) rear seat and a very small trunk.

Recognized Competition:

Mini Cooper $14-25,000, Scion tC $16,300, Ford Focus $13-17,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $12-20,000, Acura RSX $20-24,000, Hyundai Tiburon $16-21,000, Volkswagen GTI $20,340, Toyota Corolla $14-18,000, Mazda 3 $14-19,000, Nissan Sentra $13-18,000, Subaru Impreza $18-33,000, Chrysler PT Cruiser $14-29,000 and Honda Civic $15-22,000.

Good News:

Very fun to drive, a solid ride, good fuel economy and a bit of European history.

Bad News:

See through sun screens on the sun roof, tiny seating and cargo area, stupid sun visors, lots of shifting and window controls hidden in plain sight.

Standard Equipment:

1.6 liter 115 hp 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, McPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension, engine speed sensitive power steering, 4-wheel ANS disc brakes, sport suspension and rear anti-roll stabilizer bar, 15” alloy wheels, space saver spare, dual air bags, front – side impact airbags, Corner Brake Control (CBC), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), flat tire monitor, engine immobilizer, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, anti-theft CD audio system w/ 6 speakers, speed sensitive intermittent wipers, power windows, split fold down rear seats and power mirrors.

Gas Stats:

28 City and 36 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,950.

General Info:

Parts – Great Britain – 45%, Germany – 25% incl. transmission, US/Canadian – 5%, Brazil – Engine,

Assembly – Oxford , Gr. Britain

Class: – Compact (Tiny)

Cars: – Cooper (from race car

2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 4-door (659)

09-07-2007Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2007 (late year model) Volkswagen Rabbit 4-door sedan. You know what, we in America really need to re-think our perceived need to drive bulky, heavy vehicles like today’s SUV’s. Most of the world drives cars that provide much more fuel economy and sacrifice very little in the area of interior space. Here in the US truck class cars (that included SUVs) make up fully 50% of all cars sold.

I’m sure many buy large cars in self defense since there are so many on the highway. Think if you drove a “Smart” car how intimidating it would be on the same road with big heavy cars.

Responsible cars like the Smart Car and this VW Rabbit would be a much easier sell if there weren’t so many big cars to share the highway with. And on the roads of most of Western and especially Eastern Europe a large car is a “Fish out of water”. Roads are simply too small to accommodate them.

General Info:

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

Assembly – Wolfsburg, Germany

Class: – Compact Cars

Cars: – Eos, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle, Passat, Passat Wagon, Rabbit and Touareg.

Observation:

European car makers seem unafraid of using Express up and down windows as are those in America. Such features are very convenient but you seldom see American car makers willing to risk lawsuits. Pa-leese – what’s that all about? What ever happened to the old west, pioneer spirit, and people taking responsibility for themselves? In any case this VW Rabbit with Express up and down windows include “Pinch Protection” so this won’t cause a boo-boo.

As far as I’m concerned it was ok without “Pinch Protection”. Oooo-my-gosh is it any different than teaching your child to look both ways before crossing the street. Or is it the adults we have to worry about in this case. If so, I wonder if that person should be behind the wheel to begin with.

Handling & Performance:

Wonderful. Everything is so smooth from steering to shifting and acceleration to braking that it is a pleasure to drive such a well thought out and engineered car. I would, however, opt for the optional Stability program. I have tested these kinds of safety features on the race track and other test venues and I’m totally sold on the benefits – totally.

Styling:

Ok, I like the look even though it is pretty common place – how about you?

Fit and Finish:

Good. It’s made it Germany and most people in Europe still have a pride of workmanship that is less and less common in today’s world. But, management must be a part of the equation because some VW’s are manufactured in Mexico. Know what I mean?

Cost:

Good. Not steel, but a good value.

Conveniences and comfort:

Good stuff is standard and the option of a sunroof I can live without.

Consumer Recommendation:

In my opinion it is the best of the bunch listed here. Not that the others are bad, but this is just a bit better for the money.

Recognized Competition:

VW Rabbit $15-17,000, Dodge Caliber $14-20,000, Ford Focus $14-17,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $13-20,000, Pontiac G5 $15-17,000, Saturn Ion $12-20,000, Nissan Versa $13-15,000, Toyota Matrix $15-17,000, Mazda3 $14-20,000, Honda Civic $15-25,000, Hyundai Elantra $13-17,000, Subaru Impreza $18-33,000, Kia Rio $11-13,000, Scion tC $17,000.

Good News:

Fun to drive, quality construction seamless interface between car and driver.

Bad News:

Small profile for US highways as it is overshadowed by typically large cars, only fair fuel economy around town but decent highway results and it is rather plain Jane styling.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter 150 hp 5 cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission front wheel drive, electro mechanical power steering, anti-slip regulation control, electronic differential lock, antilock front and rear disc braking system, front and side air bags, side curtain head airbags, rear seat child anchor system, child safety door locks, daytime running lights, side protection door beams, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows with pinch protection, power mirrors, tilt and telescoping steering column, center armrest with cooled storage, intermittent wipers, front seats lumbar adjustment, fold flat front passenger seat, split folding rear seat, rear seat armrest with pass through, front and rear reading lights, fuel and trunk remote door releases, power central locking system, remote keyless entry, in-dash 6-disc CD changer / MP3 format readable, heated front seats, heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm system and immobilizer system. Options: power sunroof $1,000, Electronic stabilization program $450, 16” alloy wheels $400, Sirius Satellite radio $375.

Gas Stats:

$2.99/ Gal avg. July 10 ‘07

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

22 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,990.

2006 Hyundai Azera Limited (627)

27-11-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the new for 2006 Hyundai Azera Limited 4 door sedan that will knock your socks off for a car that speaks more than the sticker price would indicate. This is a very nice automobile. Ok, so it doesn’t have the fancy badge but you won’t pay a premium for the quality either.

There are a growing number of cars that will continue to make a name for themselves as quality cars with a price point that won’t break the bank – ‘your bank’ and this is one of those cars. The model year difference is not enough to wait for the 2007 and you’ll have much more bargaining power with the 2006.

General Info:

Parts – US/Canadian 5%, Korea 93%

Assembly – Asan , Korea

Class: – Large Car

Cars: – Accent, Azera, Elantra, Entourage, Santa Fe , Sonata, Tiburon and Tucson .

Handling & Performance:

Superb for the money. The important thing here is that you’ll get features only available on cars costing much more.

Styling:

Cookie cutter to some extent but what isn’t these days. But hold onto your hat because the young lions in the design departments have been given the go ahead to put their ideas out there for the 21st century. Some have paid dividends, like the PT Cruiser from Chrysler but I have real doubts over some new ‘youth oriented’ designs by young surfer type designers in today’s world. Know what I mean.

Ford, on the other hand unveiled the new Italian designed Mustang at the LA Auto Show. The Italian designer, in broken English, explained his design to the press November 29th to a packed Media event. This first to be seen new Mustang Concept is sure to hit the showroom floors soon – because it is a winner and more importantly because Ford needs a positive shot in the arm. It is flat out beautiful and I would own one. Bravo Ford.

Fit and Finish:

Back to the Hyundai Azera that is sure to impress you as much as it has me.

Cost:

Outstanding bang for your buck Pocahontas was heard to say. And I agree with her but you can bet the price will go up when consumers begin to buy these lovely sedans.

Conveniences and comfort:

Excellent. This is a 10 in my book.

Consumer Recommendation:

You’ve gotta include this in your search for a family passenger sedan if in the $35,000 price range. You figure what to do with the other $9,000 you won’t give to its competition.

By the way, if you need confidence in the Korean car maker, consider that Toyota and other Japanese car makers are having their cars assembled in Korea . South Korea , of course. Face it; nothing exists in North Korea ‘s hold over of Communist form of Government. What a testimony to Western economic systems.

Incidentally you should be able to deal on a new 2006 model as they clear out stock for 2007 model year cars.

Recognized Competition:

Hyundai Azera $24-27,000, Ford Five Hundred $23-28,000, Buick Lucerne $26-35,000, Toyota Avalon $27-34,000, Chrysler 300 $24-40,000, Mercury Montego $24-29,000.

Good News:

Great handling and performance, nice styling and a roomy passenger sedan that is found in more expensive brands. Decent fuel economy (I got just over 25 mpg average). Very Good warranty.

Bad News:

Road noise is noticeable but didn’t deter me from recommending this for your consideration.

Gas Stats:

$2.37/ Gal avg. Nov 06

19 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $26,835.

2006 Volvo C70 Convertible (625)

09-11-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the reintroduced Volvo C70 Convertible for 2006. It’s been a roller coaster ride with introduction in 1998 with a fixed top and soft top convertible. They dropped the coupe in ’03 but continued the rag top in ’04, it went into hibernation in ’05 and emerged in 06. Sounds like some women I know.

Well, there is also a 2007 model with only minor changes not worth talking about. But what is worth talking about is that this is a really nice convertible. I wonder about the technical difficulties that may surface with the hard convertible top, but as is it is wonderfully easy and precise – as you’d expect from the Sweeeds.

General Info:

Parts – Sweden – 21%, Germany – 18%, US/Canadian .3%

Assembly – Gothenburg, Sweden

Class: – Sub Compact

Cars: – C70, S40,S60, S80, V50, V70, XC70 and XC 90

Handling & Performance:

Really excellent in the turns. Top down, heater on, let it snow. And this is no slouch in 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds. Speed sensitive power steering is exceptional in feel and function.

Styling:

Very special in look and feel. The added steel supports and unibody construction gives the car an exceptionally solid feel uncharacteristic with many other convertibles. The retractible hardtop is totally power driven with one button control for up and down. Fantastic.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent

Cost:

A little pricey, but this is a fine automobile.

Conveniences and comfort:

This lady is well endowed.

Consumer Recommendation:

Consider the ‘06 model because there were only minor changes in ’07 and you’ll be able to deal a little better – assuming there are any left when you go hunting. But there isn’t a lot in the category so you won’t be overwhelmed with testing.

Recognized Competition:

Volvo C70 $38,710, BMW 3 Series $31-45,000, Audi TT $34-47,000, Jaguar XK Series $75-92,000, Mercedes Benz CLK-Class $46-89,000 and Audi A4 $28-47,000.

Good News:

Beautifully designed convertible, very comfortable, handles great and even with the top down and stowed in the trunk there is a decent cargo cubby hole that will take a good sized suit case.

Standard Equipment:

2.5 liter Inline 5 cylinder 218 horsepower turbocharged engine with variable valve timing, 6 speed manual transmission, front wheel drive, independent supspension with anti-roll bars front and rear, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes with electronic brake distribution, speed dependent power steering, 17 inch alloy wheels, dynamic stability traction control, roll over protection system with pop up rear roll bars, driver information system, extra strength steel supports, uni-body construction, front and side air bags, engine immobilizer anti theft ignition with coded keys, child seat anchors, fog lights, power retractible steel hardtop, power front seats, leather inserts seating serfaces, locking rear seat pass through, climate control, trip computer and cruise control, power windows with auto up and down, heated rear glass window

Gas Stats:

$2.43/ Gal avg.

20 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $38,710.

2006 Chevrolet HHR (617)

19-09-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2006 Chevrolet HHR – GM’s answer to Chrysler’s PT Cruiser. It’s similarly priced and Chevy lovers now have an option to the Chrysler to own a retro styled car / truck – or what is SUV styling in today’s terms.

I drove this HHR to San Diego – actually Coronado for a stay at the Hotel Del Coronado for a little more nostalgia staying in a room that was built in 1888. Wow! Elton John would likely break into song and say “It’s still standing”! And indeed it is still standing even if the floors seem to go up and down where they shouldn’t.

And you know what, driving up to this world famous luxury hotel I felt as much at home in this Retro Chevy HHR as I would in a Cad or Jag or even a Bentley or Rolls Royce. Somehow the HHR seemed to fit the surroundings more appropriately than any of those.

General Info:

Parts – US

Assembly – Ramos Arizpe, Mexico

Class: – Special Purpose

Cars: – Astro, Avalanche, Aveo, Aveo5, Cavalier, Cobalt, Colorado, Corvette, Equinox, Express, Express Cargo Van, HHR, Impala, Malibu, Malibu Maxx, Monte Carlo, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500 and hybrid, SSR, Suburban, Tahoe, Trail Blazer and Uplander.

1940 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery.

Public Service:

Boycott toll roads. It’s not what California has been all about. In the east and much of the rest of the country the people have been duped into accepting them. In the Newport Beach area of California Highway 73 is highway robbery.

In contrast Coronado and San Diego are linked by a huge bridge that was built as a toll bridge to accommodate the largest of war ships to pass under and to handle to ever growing number of commuters to and fro. Since its construction and opening in 1967 the cost of construction bonds have been retired and it is now toll free.

If you know the 73 roadway will return to a toll free California Highway please email the information to me. I’ll share that information with our readers.

Handling & Performance:

You’re not going to pull a big boat with this HHR but it is a great commuter with very good mileage numbers. I did a lot of highway driving miles and it is very comfortable. It’s a little slow off the line, but when you get rolling it is just fine. You won’t zip by traffic in a passing situation because it’s a bit sluggish at 143 horsepower where 0-60 mph is 8.5 seconds. You can get up to 85 mph in a quarter mile in about 17 seconds. It won’t do very well at the drags, but then you won’t suck up very much gas either. The standard engine is 2.2 liters but a 2.4 liter for 172 horsepower is available. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and I tested the optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

Styling:

Retro is the thing for a lot of us whether old or young when it comes to car design. Take a look at the 1940 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery and you’ll see where the inspiration came from. Put some more windows, rake the front hood and wa-la you are in the 21st Century. Some things simply can’t be improved upon and this and the PT Cruiser are testimonials to that fact.

Fit and Finish:

I’m a little disappointed in the way components feel on the interior. Pushing some control buttons cause the plastic support to give a bit which is not as solid as it should be.

Cost:

This is where this car shines and you’ve got to wonder how they can build cars this inexpensively. In a world of $45,000 cars and SUVs being so common it is refreshing to be able to buy this HHR for as low as $16,000.

Conveniences and comfort:

Unlike the 1940 version this retro has comfortable bucket seats and electronics for a good sound system, auto trans, power seats and air conditioning. You’d have to spend a ton to restore the ’40 and for a few shekels you can own a new car for trouble free driving for a long time.

I noticed the arm rests are not very comfortable. OK, so I have boney elbows – how about you?

Storage compartment nooks and crannies are good.

Consumer Recommendation:

For the best comparison to the HHR retro Sedan Delivery / SUV test drive the PT Cruiser from Chrysler.

I could own this car and when I gave it more thought I concluded that for the same money as one high end SUV I could own this HHR as well as the Saturn Sky, 2-seat sport car, and have the best of all worlds. Think about that.

Recognized Competition:

Chevrolet HHR $15-16,000, Mazda 5 $17-19,000, Subaru Forester $22-28,000, Toyota Matrix $15-19,000, Scion xB $14,030, Chrysler PT Cruiser $14-29,000, Suzuki Aerio SX $14-17,000, Kia Spectra 5 $15,900, Pontiac Vibe $16,630, Honda Element $19-23,000.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, wonderfully retro styled and fantastic pricing for a daily driver.

Bad News:

Some cheaply made components, skimpy horsepower and discomfort from door armrests.

Standard Equipment:

2.2 or 2.4 liter ($650 more) inline 4-cylinder engine with 143 and 172 hp respectively, 5-speed manual transmission, touring suspension, power front disc and rear drum brake system, dual air bags, theft deterrent system, rear child seat latch system and door locks, daytime running lights (auto control), 16 inch aluminum wheels, dual breakaway power mirrors, intermittent front wipers, rear wiper, air conditioning, stereo with CD, MP3 playback and auxiliary input jack, reclining front bucket seats, power driver seat, 60/40 split folding rear seat, fold flat front passenger seat, tilt steering wheel, rear window defogger, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, and cruise control.

Gas Stats:

Gas Stats: $2.80/ Gal avg.

23 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $16,325.

2006 BMW 325-i (615)

04-09-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the new for 2006 BMW 325-i and incidentally it was reviewed while traveling through much of the state of Oregon from top to bottom and side to side. At the top is the Columbia River Gorge and if you haven’t seen it and will, you are in for a treat. Beautiful country.

I don’t know if this BMW was necessarily in style with its Barrique Red Metallic paint job, but I always enjoy driving BMW cars even if it is the compact 3 – series. Surely the handling prowess of this cat makes up for its small size. And don’t get me wrong, it isn’t all “That” small and for a compact it has a nice size trunk and seating is quite comfy.

Public Service: Reduce Road Rage – if you’re not passing traffic in the slower lane to your right, that’s the lane you should be driving in.

Handling & Performance:

German cars have for the past half century been known for their mechanical genius. The Japanese have risen to the occasion to rival the world and equalize the playing field of automotive excellence. Today it is apparent the big three have taken on a whole new meaning. In my view it is no longer GM, Ford and Chrysler but the global community makes it America , Germany and Japan .

Think about that for a moment and then see if you see the same interesting result of WWII as relates to the auto industry. I suspect the Space Race will have made a similar impact on the miniaturizing of all electronics that has given birth to so many wonderful gadgets like this computer I’m writing with. Our space age navigation systems that are simply wonderful no matter in which continent you happen to be traveling. Now as you probably know there are portable Nav systems and I’ll be reviewing those shortly as they apply to all autos you drive. Of course it is safe to say they, like all electronics, will get so cheaper over time and I’ll bet you will have them in every vehicle you own so you won’t need a portable version. But until then portable is good and they only cost about $600.

Styling:

I don’t have the answer to how they could design the low cowling better but I have a problem with low profile cars like this BMW that hit parking cement stops. The low profile makes handling better but makes for a parking nightmare.

Fit and Finish:

Quite good but the use of plastic nearly everywhere makes you appreciate real material like wood whenever you find it. All plastic simply loses the warmth of real or natural materials.

Cost:

The base price is good at $30,900 but that is pretty bare bones in my opinion. To get it equipped the way I like it with leather, sports seats that hug you all around and several power options you’re looking at nearly $40,000. Hello, that’s a lot for a 3-Series.

Conveniences and comfort:

I’m wondering why the ignition system is designed the way it is. You put the blunt key fob into the dash and then push a start button and push it again to turn the ignition off. Then you remove the key fob.

Sirius satellite radio is good but I’m partial to XM Satellite, perhaps because it’s the first. But then I like Pepsi even though I grew up with Coke.

Cup holders on the dash are really bad. Don’t these engineer guys ever drive their own cars and spill coffee, or other drinks all over themselves and the car like I did? Perhaps they should consider having the press drive these cars before they go into production.

The seat cushions on the side have pillows that expand to hold you snug in the seat. The first time I experienced those was in a Corvette I tested in Colorado . It was apparent they are “Race Age” devices that hug you in the curves to make you feel you’re a part of the car. Wonderful and you’ll love ‘em.

Cruise control is one of my favorite conveniences because I do a lot of driving on the highway. But I have to say Mercedes and BMW place the control levers in lousy places. They are so close together that you must always think about which lever you are using. Not good. I believe GM has engineered this feature the best of any of the competition. I did however like the unique improvement of allowing you to click one notch for a one mile per hour increase or decrease or two notches to jump four miles per hour up or down.

Consumer Recommendation:

If a compact car is your thing at this point in your life and the budget will afford mid $30,000 prices this is a nice option to consider. But the competition is real stiff and capable. It has to be a tough decision for anyone. Hell, flip a coin out of the list below.

Recognized Competition:

BMW 3-Series $30-45,000, Volvo S40 $24-29,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $29-54,000, Audi A4 $28-45,000, Saab 9-3 $26-42,000, Volkswagen Passat $23-32,000, Subaru Legacy $22-34,000, Jaguar X-Type $32,330, Lexus IS $30-35,000, Infiniti G35 $31-34,000, Acura TSX $28-30,000, Cadillac CTS $29-51,000, Lexus ES 350 $33,170.

Good News:

Well thought out cruise control settings, nice handling and wonderful manual transmission shifting characteristics and decent fuel economy. I like the His and Her climate temp controls because she’s always menopause hot and I’m on the cool side (sound familiar?).

Bad News:

Poorly placed cup holders, questionable ignition design (key would be better), poor cruise control location.

Standard Equipment:

3.0 liter 225 horsepower inline 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, twin tube gas pressure shocks, engine speed sensitive power assist steering, run flat tires with flat tire warning, dynamic stability control and dynamic traction control, dual airbags with front seat side airbags, front and rear seat head protection system, haloge4n lights and fog lights, rain sensing windshield wipers and auto headlight control, ground lighting in door handles, keyless remote entry, power and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic leather wrapped steering wheel, climate control with activated charcoal micro filter ventilation and left / right temp controls, 6-way adjustable front seats, anti theft stereo, CD and MP3 player audio system, computer and 2-way power glass moonroof.

Gas Stats:

20 City and 30 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $30,900.

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

2006 Ford Fusion (614)

28-08-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the new for 2006 Ford Fusion. New cars used to be risky business for consumers in the old days. I remember the first Datsun (Name change to Nissan) I bought in 1968 and it was so new parts were a pain to get if you needed them. I guess it could be true today, because as it has been said “change a grain of sand on the beach and the whole world is different”. But generally that is no longer true.

These guys are pretty good, but if that were always true there wouldn’t be the word “Recall” in our vocabulary. From what I could tell this past week of driving, and I did a lot of that in this Fusion, this car is pretty “Bullet-Proof” in all areas that can be seen and felt.

The first thing you notice, and Ilona was way off in her estimate of price on this one, is that the car is much more expensive looking than the price would indicate. Perhaps US automakers have learned from the Japanese how to compete. We seemed to have forgotten from our unchallenged years of building cars for the world.

General Info:

Parts – USA

Assembly – Mexico

Class: – Midsize

Cars: – Mustang, Crown Victoria , Edge, Escape (& Hybrid), E-series Van & Wagon, Excursion, Expedition, Explorer (& Sport Trac), F-150, 250 and 350 trucks, Five Hundred, Focus (& Wagon), Freestar, Freestyle, Fusion, GT, Ranger and Shelby GT.

Handling & Performance:

It should be noted here that Fusion will replace Taurus for Ford’s Race program. And I found it to be really capable on the Crest Test. Thirty miles of twists and turns that will wear you out but it didn’t seem to tire the Fusion. I suspect the only negative in this area is the “Low” range on the auto transmission. It found it fairly useless over 25 MPH or you’d be running at 5,000 rpm. But “Drive” range is ok and shifting is very smooth but required too much braking downhill without an effective lower range.

Styling:

I like it because it’s simple clean lines won’t go out of style.

Fit and Finish:

very good

Cost:

Very competitive. Ford came to play. There are options that would take it to a few thousand, but the standard equipment is plenty. This is worth the time to look if you’re in the market for this price range car.

Conveniences:

Well endowed.

Consumer Recommendation:

Whenever I’m asked these days what car to buy I start with their answer to personal intentions. Wants, needs and what activity level and kinds of uses they will have for the car or truck they buy. THEN, I move right to the best buy for their hard earned money. Buy American – especially if they live in America , because that is even more of a reason to support U.S. automakers who contribute greatly to what makes this wonderful country work. In any case it is high time we looked after our own because that helps us all and that economic boost will ripple well beyond our borders. We’ve beat up on US car makers long enough beginning in 1960 to now. Even Moses only had to wander in the desert for 40 years. Enough already – buy American.

Recognized Competition:

Ford Fusion $17-22,000, Mercury Milan $18-23,000, Mitsubishi Galant $19-27,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Honda Accord $18-29,000, Nissan Altima $18-30,000, Dodge Stratus $20-24,000, Chrysler Sebring $20-32,000, Subaru Legacy $22-34,000, Toyota Camry $18-28,000, Kia Optima $16-20,000, Pontiac G6 $17-29,000, Chevrolet Malibu $17-23,000, Hyundai Sonata $17-23,000.

Good News:

Solid yet simple styling, shockingly great ride, Midsize big 5 seater for the family.

Bad News:

Low range on the auto trans is poorly geared.

Standard Equipment:

2.3 liter inline 4-cylinder 160 horsepower engine, 5-speed auto trans, fog lights 17” aluminum wheels, power mirrors, climate control, audio with in dash MP3/CD player, analog clock, information center, power windows and locks, leather wrapped wheel with speed, audio and climate controls, 6-way power driver seat, illuminated vanity mirrors, 60/40 rear seat power steering , 4-wheel disc brakes, tilt and telescopic wheel, keyless entry, child latch safety system, anti-theft and illuminated entry.

Gas Stats:

24 City and 32 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $18,985.

2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe 6MT (612)

14-08-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe 6MT (for 6 speed manual transmission). Why, because it is a really sweet car, said a young man at the Acton market. He looked like he was in the market for a car, and a nice looking lad he was. Just then a couple of pretty ladies passed by and greeted him. “You don’t need this car to attract the girls”,

I said to him, but he appeared to be more interested in the car. He has a lot to learn but I can understand his love affair with the likes of the G35. It is truly easy to look at.

I always enjoy driving cars of this quality because they are flat fun to drive and behave so well. This reminds me a lot of the Nissan 350Z as to handling but it is roomier than the Z. I had just given it the Crest Test through the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California that helps to acccc-centuate the handling characteristics of any car. In this case the experience was extremely positive. Ya gotta just fall in love.

General Info:

Parts – n/a

Assembly – Los Angeles

Class: – Compact

Cars: – FX, G35, M, Q45 and QX56

Handling & Performance:

It’s like driving on rails which is the most revealing of feelings as you zip around the hairpin turns through the mountains. I tried something new – I set the cruise control at the speed limit and found I could negotiate the turns without slowing down. The 6-speed manual trans is marvelous mainly because it is driven by 298 horsepower that allows you to pull all the hills in higher gears with fewer shifts. But when you do shift you’ll notice how well it guides you through the gears with spring loaded short throw movement. It doesn’t get much better.

Friend Ron who had just bought the new Corvette that sports 400 horsepower and 6-speed trans reminded me of my recent test and review of it and the 500 hp Z06. Flashbacks of the Crest Test of that Vette helped me to compare this G35 and put it quickly into perspective. It prompted me to caution him to watch the radar traps through the mountains. Those California cowboys ruin the thrill of such roads where there is no better place to feel the exhilaration of how wonderful that Vette handles the curves. But to really satisfy the need for speed and the G-forces possible in such cars you need to go to neighboring states to California where there are less limits on speed and wide open spaces. Boy I’m glad my kids didn’t go into politics or law enforcement or I’d have to disown them.

On the track, where I test most of the cars I review you can get your heart pumping as you quickly accelerate to 120 mph on the straight-a-ways. To eclipse those speeds you need to go to Europe ‘s Autobahns where 140 mph is commonplace. Now that’s driving and drivers are aware and polite and generally the best drivers in the world.

Styling:

The G35 looks and feels the part of the true sports car that it is. But it does provide seating for 4, in a pinch. It’s better than a Porsche for rear seating but not much, plus the G35 provides a small trunk large enough for a regular size golf bag. My large PGA style bag wouldn’t fit. But if you’re not transporting a 4-some you can fold down the rear seat and even my clubs fit in the pass through.

Sometime little things make a big impression and the analog clock takes you back in ‘time’, so to speak. Nice touch. The instrumentation is classy and a mark of more expensive cars. And the leather seating, steering wheel and shift knob is a must in this car and the aluminum pedals add to the sports car theme.

Fit and Finish:

Very nice as is customary for most Japanese cars but some wider gaps on the interior than expected.

Cost:

Pricey for a small car, but not bad for a luxury sports car.

Conveniences:

I love cruise control and believe it should be standard on all cars to improve the smooth flow of traffic on crowded highways. But I did notice an annoying jerkiness on the down slopes.

Seatbelts are more than a convenience and should fit better than those on this G35. It hits you right on the collarbone and is quite uncomfortable. I’m sure there must be a fix for this problem. If I think of it I will let you know.

The auto one-touch windows are great. I suspect there are reasons why most automakers shy away from this great feature. Cost can be the only reason because otherwise all cars would include them in their power windows.

Consumer Recommendation:

Here’s some info to blow you away. Toyota sales in California reach 23.4% of total auto sales. Honda accounts for 12% so that doesn’t leave much room for US competition. Pearl Harbor was just a prelude of things to come from Japan . I’m all for competition but America should ramp up and get Rosy the Riveter back on the US production lines. Perhaps we’d be able to better compete. As the old ad tells us, in her own words … \”I can bring home the bacon Fry it up in a pan And never let you forget you\’re a man \’Cuz I\’m a woman – W – O – M – A – N!\”. Sexist, but that has been the mantra for the past 40 years.

Recognized Competition:

Infiniti G35 $31-34,000, BMW 3-Series $31-45,000, Lincoln Zephyr $28,995 Subaru Legacy $22-34,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Audi A4 $28-45,000, Saab 9-3 $26-42,000, Volvo S40 $24-29,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $29-54,000, Cadillac CTS $29-51,000, Volkswagen Passat $23-32,000 Jaguar X-Type $32,330, Lexus IS $30-35,000, Acura TSX $28-30,000.

Good News:

Affordable sports car, great handling, fun to drive and one touch up/down power windows.

Bad News:

Uncomfortable seat belt restraints, less than stellar fuel performance.

Standard Equipment:

3.5 liter 298 hp V6 front mounted engine with continuous variable valve timing control (a mark of more expensive engines), 6-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, independent multilink front and rear sport tuned suspension, power assisted 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, Viscous limited-slip differential, engine speed-sensitive power steering, VDC (vehicle dynamic control), traction control, cruise control, zero lift front aerodynamics, fog lights, 19” 5-spoke forged aluminum alloy wheels with Y-rated performance tires, power heated mirrors, audio with 6-in dash CD with MP3 playback, illuminated steering wheel audio controls, Infiniti signature analog clock, leather seats, 8-way power heated driver’s seat and 4-way power heated passenger’s seat, aluminum trim and pedals, power one-touch auto up and down windows with auto reverse feature, climate control, o/s temp gauge and digital compass display, folding rear seat with trunk pass through, cargo net and tie downs, dual stage air bags and front seat side air bags, child rear anchors and tethers, remote keyless entry, security system with immobilizer system, 1st aid kit and tire monitoring system.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 26 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $33,650.

2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD (611)

04-08-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara 4WD sport utility vehicle with the XSPORT PACAKGE. The next model up is the Luxury 4-WD that adds a sunroof, leather seats and $1,900 to the MSRP. No thanks.

Well, I scheduled this sport UTE for a trip to the back country of the Sierra National forest mountains of California . I had visited this area often in the past and it is as rugged as it gets. I wondered if I had made a wise decision not to schedule a Hummer or more (supposedly) capable 4-wheel drive vehicle or surely one with more cargo area. I was a little concerned when I began loading gear and essentials only to find the two women joining me on the trek up to the back country had packed for two – each. Ahhh, but there was the roof rack for suit cases with god knows what all was packed inside. If you have to ask why there were two women I’m not going to tell you. Just kidding – one was with me and the other – the wife of the guy already there setting up the base camp.

The area is just south of Mammoth Lakes and west of Mt. Whitney that reaches 14,494 feet into the California sky. The whole area represents some of the worlds most beautiful and majestic vistas that take your breath away. The famous John Muir trail winds its way north and south of our base camp at Jackass Meadow next to Florence Lake and the San Juakeen River. Other lakes you may recognize are Edison and Huntington and Shaver Lakes below.

Handling & Performance:

I would be crossing rivers and traverse rocky country and it didn’t take long to feel how capable this Suzuki handled the terrain. I was impressed. I had just tested the new Toyota FJ and wondered if it would have been any better, but I’ll never know. In any case this Suzuki became my buddy and did itself proud.

As you must know, 4-wheel drive vehicles seldom get off road (only 5% of the time), but this Grand Vitara got waaaay off road. The last 20 miles into our camp at 7,500 foot elevation in a valley east of the 9,000 foot Kaiser Pass, is a one lane winding road with sheer drop offs down craggy granite walls. And you know I never once felt uncomfortable even considering the gasps and groans from the passengers. “Don’t look down and you won’t be scarred”, I suggested.

Fuel economy, although not terrible isn’t impressive either.

Styling:

More cutesy than Grand but nice considering the price range. You tend to expect more from a pricier car.

Fit and Finish:

This Suzuki is put together so as to give the look and feel of a more expensive brand, and that considering I had just swapped out a Toyota Land Cruiser at about three times the money.

Cost:

You just have to wonder why you would spend two or three times the money for a good off road vehicle. The couple we were camping with brought along a 1942 Army Jeep, and although you can pay 5 figures for those classic Jeeps you can also get them for $6-8,000 a copy. They are fun to look at and ride in for the historical value but the Suzuki was much more comfortable and handled the road equally as well with a bit more confidence.

Conveniences:

Not only did I have more confidence in the chances of surviving the trek as compared to the Army Jeep, the Suzuki pampered me with comfortable seats, power windows as opposed to no windows, tilt steering wheel and air conditioning as opposed to “Open Air” with no top at all.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re into punishing yourself buy the Jeep but I suggest you consider the comfort of a more modern off road experience.

Recognized Competition:

Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-25,000, Mercury Mariner $21-27,000, Chevrolet Equinox $21-24,000, Subaru Forester $22-28,000, Mercury Mariner Hybrid $29,000, Mazda Tribute $20-25,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $18-26,000, Jeep Liberty $21-26,000, Hyundai Tucson $18-24,000, Honda CR-V $20-25,000, Nissan Xterra $20-28,000, Toyota RAV4 $20-26,000, 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid $26-27,000 and 2007 Ford Escape $19-26,000.

Good News:

Nice ride, affordable 4-WD.

Bad News:

Accelerate button not very responsive with 185 hp and only fair fuel economy.

Standard Equipment:

2.7 liter 185 hp V6 engine, 5-speed auto trans, independent strut front and multilink rear suspension, 4-mode 4WD, ESP Electronic Stability Program and traction control, ABS brakes with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), front air bags and front and rear curtain airbags, keyless entry with Smartpass starting (key not needed to start engine as long as key fob is in the vehicle), climate control air, CD,AM/FM and XM radio, tilt wheel, cruise control, power windows and locks, power heated mirrors, fog lights, full spare tire cover, privacy glass, roof rails and 16” Alloy Wheels.

Gas Stats:

19 City and 23 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $22,699.

2006 Mitsubishi Endeavor LS AWD – 4-Door SUV (608)

14-07-2006Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2006 Mitsubishi Endeavor LS AWD SUV. It is a 4-Door 5-passenger sport Ute and God help me I love these things. But I must admit I feel guilty driving gas guzzlers of any kind. If Mao Tse Tung could convince a billion Chinese to limit families to only one baby you’d think we could convince the driving public to buy more fuel efficient cars.

Mao’s policy is still in effect and it has reduced the population of China by 350 million people (the population of the entire United States ).

But noooooooooooooooo, we keep buying the damn things and contribute to the ruin of what’s left of the polar ice caps. It is conceivable we’ll have SUV’s long after the Polar Bear is extinct. I didn’t use to feel this way because I expected supply and demand to solve all the problems in this area. People would react to the increasing price of gas and “Natural Selection” would rule. Consumers would opt to eat rather than feed their big Suburbans, Tahoe’s, Ford Explorers, Hummer – one, two and three and on and on ad nauseam.

It hasn’t worked for a few reasons but mainly because the US has subsidized the cost of gas. And not until the beginning of the 21st century did government begin to stay out of the gas issue. Oh sure they start a few wars to assure us of having the fuel we demand but they refuse to use Americas oil reserves to keep the price down. After all we may want to embark on another World War and that would require us having those oil reserves available. Government is a dirty business, eh?

Public Service:

Subject is Boom Boxes. Come on, tell me it drives you crazy too. In any case I won’t offend anyone because the annoying people who pound your senses with more watts than should be legal can’t read anyway. I hate to stereotype those people but you do your own ‘straw poll’ and see if it doesn’t lean heavily in one direction. I’m sure you know what I mean? You pull up to a light or stop sign and your car begins to rumble and you go to close your windows and find they’re already shut tight. But that boom, boom, thud, thud, bang, bang snakes its way through any crack and crevice of your car to assault you ear drums and other senses. How can we change that? Any ideas? I’ll print them next time.

Reader Mail:

After the Toyota Yaris column ran I received email from Dave and Karen regarding a typo of the model year being a 2006. Indeed the Yaris debuted as a 2007. So I asked if they owned one and this was the reply: “Yeah, we have one and are getting 40 mpg average! We went to buy a Toyota Corolla and saw this Yaris in the lot. The salesman wasn\’t interested in showing it to us but we were insistent – we were shopping for a commuter car and this is perfect as we drive an \’05 SUV and an \’02 2500 HD GMV Pick Up!”

Great testimony and one that supports what I believe more and more folks will do realizing the need for large vehicles for work and play. Pull the boat or haul tools etc. for work life, but on the commute these inexpensive high mileage cars are really the hot ticket.

Handling & Performance:

Quite good, but in a sea of SUV ‘s they’re all like sisters with similar builds. High profiles generally make them obviously top heavy so less steady on their feet. Kinda like a woman in high heals.

The 3.8 liter V6 is more than enough by providing 225 horses to push you down the road as fast as your heart and the Highway Patrol will allow you to go.

Styling:

Nice outside and I got quickly comfortable with the interior lay out.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

Not bad, based on the competition and because it is Japanese the demand means a higher purchase price.

Conveniences:

See the listing of features below and you get an idea of how many goodies are standard. $2,000 more will add a Road Trip Package that includes a DVD video entertainment system with wireless headphones and remote control, Infinity AM/FM with 6-disc CD changer with MP3 playback and 7 speakers, steering wheel audio controls, color info display for compass, outside temp, drive computer and maintenance recorder, cargo net and soft cover and anti-theft alarm system.

Consumer Recommendation:

Buy the SUV if that’s your thing – want – or need and then look at the Yaris as a commuter. We all know we’re headed for parity with the world and $4 a gallon is only the beginning. Act early.

Recognized Competition:

Mitsubishi Endeavor $27-32,000, Chevrolet TrailBlazer $24-32,000, Ford Explorer $27-36,000, Volvo XC 70 $36,135, Toyota Highlander $25-32,000, Infiniti FX $38-50,000, Jeep Grand Cherokee $27-43,000, Honda Pilot $27-35,000, Kia Sorento $19-27,000, Subaru Outback $19-36,000, Dodge Durango $29-38,000, Nissan Murano $28-32,000, Saab 9-7X $39-41,000.

Good News:

Comfortable ride, powerful V6, well appointed and assembled, and competitively priced.

Bad News:

Gas guzzler.

Standard Equipment:

3.8 liter V6 225 horsepower engine, 4-speed auto trans (w/OD), dual front and side airbags, anti theft engine immobilizer, latch system for child seats and safety locks, tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, power assist rack and pinion steering, front and ear stabilizer bars, vented front and solid rear disc brakes, front Mac Pherson strut and rear multilink suspension, stainless steel exhaust, full size spare, air conditioning, 140 watt CD/MPs playback with 6 speakers, power windows and locks, power mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, auto off headlights, rear hatch with flip up window, fabric seating, height adjustable steering column, illuminated vanity mirrors, 60/40 split rear folding seats, rear intermittent wiper / washer, carpeted mats, 17′ alloy wheels, roof rails, privacy glass.

Gas Stats:

17 City and 22 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $27,999.

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