Tag Archives: 2011

2011 Mazda RX-8 (849)

06-01-2011Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Mazda RX-8 sports car. The RX-8 is a fun coupe that revs smoothly thanks to the unique Rotary engine, and the ride is sports car impressive. Handling is agile and the steering is communicative – meaning you can sense the road through the power assist. Although the Rotary engine is smooth, fuel economy is disappointing because I expected more.

The Rotary Engine – Advantages:

Mechanical simplicity – far fewer parts than a piston engine that cuts manufacturing costs and decreased weight without valves, camshaft, rocker arms, timing belts or flywheel. That leads to less and easier repairs. Rotary engines were used early on to power aircraft due to high power-to-weight ratio. Rotary means less vibration and it will continue to run for a time, whereas a piston engine will stop running immediately under similar stresses.

Disadvantages:

Leakage between engine chambers is common resulting in a loss of efficiency over time. They are not expected to last as long as traditional reciprocating piston engines and design includes burning small amounts of engine oil, thus requiring more frequent checking and adding oil.

Applications:

A safer choice for aircraft and preferred by many in sports and racing cars, (notable in Mazda’s RX series) due to being able to run at high rpm and produce more power.

Other applications preferring a smooth operation include go-karts, personal watercraft, gas generators, motorcycles and chainsaws.

Opinion:
Putting yourself in Harm’s Way – don’t do it on the highway where your full attention is imperative. I try to drive defensively and encourage you to do the same.

Be aware of where you are, in relation to other drivers, and avoid putting yourself in places that box you in, or where you can’t be seen. No one wants to have an accident – that’s why they are call accidents. Consider that if another driver makes a move in a panic, without being able to see you in their blind spots or is drunk, asleep or whatever you must be able to react to avoid an accident. It is not a case of if it will happen but ‘when’, because it WILL happen.

Handling & Performance:

The RX-8 is agile but not the quickest horse in the barn. But overall this 1.3 liter rotary engine is impressive in design and performance, in that it develops 232 horsepower out of only 1.3 liters.

Styling:

Sporty and low slung gives it superb handling, but for the same reason you’ll struggle to get in and out of either front or rear seats. The rear-hinged rear doors make it far easier to enter and exit the back seat albeit the space is suited best for little people.

That’s not a bad design but a simple fact for any sports car. Sports car enthusiasts understand that design and although my first assumption is that buyers must surely be younger. Not true. Older less agile folks overlook the inconvenience common to these little high performance vehicles.

According to Sports Car Marketing 54% of their readers have a net worth in excess of $2 million and 60% have an annual household income of $250,000 or more. Subscribers are serious buyers – 41% own five or more collector cars and a staggering 73% say they will buy another collector car in the next year. The conclusion they make is that high net worth readers are not just lookers but rather they are Buyers.

An interesting read on the Sports Car Market can be found at http://www.sportscarmarket.com/about/advertising/circulation-a-demographics .

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

A pricey class but the RX-8 may be the best bang for your buck.

Conveniences and comfort:

Once you get into the driver seat you will appreciate the ease of accessing all features that are numerous. If you fly a small aircraft you will appreciate the sports car experience. Bigger is better only when you need to tote a lot of folks and stuff around. Ilona and I took a road trip in a Mazda Miata MX-5 that turned into one of the more memorable travel experiences. Even further back in my younger family travel years four of us including all luggage loaded on the rear trunk rack of a Corvette made for a vacation not soon forgotten.

Consumer Recommendation:

The Rotary engine was designed in 1954 by German Engineer Felix Wankel. And although it has been embraced by few automobile manufacturers it should not dissuade you from owning this unique sports car. If the Rotary Engine is good enough for the airplane I fly it’s good enough for my car.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda RX-8 $27-32,000, Audi TT $38-49,000, BMW 1-Series $29-41,000, BMW Z4 $47-62,000, Chevrolet Camaro $23-40,000, Chevrolet Corvette $49-120,000, Dodge Challenger $23-41,000, Ford Mustang $22-38,000, Hyundai Genesis Coupe $22-32,000, Infiniti G Convertible $45-57,000, Infiniti G Coupe $36-50,000, Mercedes Benz SLK $48-53,000, Mitsubishi Eclipse $19-33,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution $34-37,000, Nissan Z $31-41,000, Volkswagen GTI $24-30,000.

Good News:

Fun to drive, well priced in class and tried and true unique power plant.

Bad News:

Only fair fuel economy.

Standard Equipment:

1.3 liter 232 horsepower rotary engine, 6-speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, 4-wheel power ABS disc brakes, traction control, 18” aluminum allow wheels, power mirrors, Xenon headlights, fog lights, auto on/off lights, climate control, 300 watt Bose stereo with 6-disc CD changer and 9-speakers, power windows & locks, leather seats, 8-way power driver seat with 3 memory settings, heated front seats, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, keyless entry, sport tuned suspension, electronic assisted direct drive steering, front wishbone and rear multi-link suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, rear window defogger, rain sensing wipers, power moon roof, rear bucket seats with trunk pass through, Bluetooth phone, SIRIUS satellite radio with 6 month subscription, front and side and side curtain airbags and tire pressure monitor.

Gas Stats:

$3.33/ Gal avg. Jan 17, 2011

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

16 City and 22 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $32,265.

2011 Frontier 4X4 Pro4X King Cab (847)

23-12-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Nissan Frontier 4X4 Pro4X Small Pickup truck with a King Cab (secret code for no room for the Queen). Other than the unimpressive fuel economy it is a very nice truck to drive. It is very comfortable and although it only has small jump seats in the rear of the King Cab model I tested, it IS after all classed as a small truck. You can move up to a 4-door for about $4,000 more if you need 4 real seats.

But if you intend to use it for off road-ing the V6 with 261 horsepower may appeal to most as more capable. I guess there is no substitute for more power and the 4 cylinder 152 hp engine will leave you wanting in some situations. However, serious off roaders will tell you more power is not necessary but rather nimble attributes are more important. The off road courses I have experienced, small Jeeps are the most effective climbers over and around and under obstacles.

Opinion:

Posted speed limits of 65 mph are archaic and should be changed. What’s your opinion?

Roads in today’s world are designed for a comfy ride at speeds far greater than the posted 65 MPH. With such well designed roads coupled with the evolving design and safety features of the cars that travel them, it is high time we increased the posted limits to 75 mph. That is the average speed anyway in America, unless of course, there is a California Cowboy lurking around the next corner or hiding behind the proverbial ‘billboard’. Why do we all do it…. BECAUSE IT IS SAFE. Sorry I didn’t mean to yell. But I have driven the Autobahn’s in Europe where cars travel at speeds well over 100 mph on a normal day, particularly in Germany, and I have personally driven for long stretches at over 125 mph.

I will remind you that these speed limits in America were made for cars with mechanical brakes and suspension systems that were very unsophisticated and dangerous at any speed. That simply is no longer the case, but the signs persist in telling us that the maximum speed that is safe is 65. I say BS and it is just a way to generate revenue.

Hell, a little over 100 years ago the ‘so called’ experts thought you would surely die if you traveled over 50 mph because the body couldn’t take such speed. Reminiscent today of such expert morons like that bozo Al Gore who conned folks into believing they were the cause of global warming and thus he bilked them out of a lot of money to grow his personal wealth by over $100 million in just a few years after leaving the VP spot. Yet, the polar ice caps on Mars have also been melting and there are no SUV’s on Mars that we know of.

Handling & Performance:

It’s a truck but the lousy turning radius is not common to all small trucks. Not a bad thing, I suppose, but a nuisance none-the-less. It is plenty powerful which explains the lousy fuel consumption. A friend’s very large Ford one ton pickup with 4 wheel drive gets about the same fuel economy, but I expected better from this ‘Small’ size Nissan Frontier pickup.

Styling:

My first truck was a 1955 Ford ½ ton pickup and that style is classic. Designers gave up classic, unique and different styling long ago. Cars are far more aerodynamic than they ever were, but what can you do with a truck to make it streamlined when it is designed for work and not beauty. But still most trucks are darn nice looking outside and carlike inside. My ’55 Ford had no carpet and cardboard like panels on the doors and hand crank windows. 4 Wheel Drive was not practical until the 1970’s although it had been invented as early as 1893. It began to take off in the 1980’s and today is commonplace of course.

Fit and Finish:

Trucks have come a long way from the early days when close tolerances were not tolerated. These were work vehicles and needed lots of space between component parts as they would need to twist and give with loads. Today close fitting joints are nearly as much a part of the truck as they are in passenger cars.

Cost:

Most of the competition is closely priced and cost more than they need to. As we’ve said before, truck based chassis vehicles are more profitable than passenger cars. Demand has pushed sales of trucks and SUV’s to about 40% of the vehicles you see on the highway, and thus the price has followed demand.

Conveniences and comfort:

This truck is loaded with not only creature comforts, it is well equipped with all the high tech safety features for vehicle control in the 21^st century.

Consumer Recommendation:

Don’t ya just love a small menu with few choices from which to select – so you can apply the KISS principal.

Recognized Competition:

Nissan Frontier $18-32,000, Chevrolet Colorado $17-29,000, Ford Ranger $18-26,000, GMC Canyon $17-30,000, Honda Ridgeline $29-37,000, Ram Dakota $23-34,000, Suzuki Equator $18-31,000, Toyota Tacoma $16-28,000.

Good News:

Perfect size truck for most non-commercial jobs, and thus car like comfort and powerful as well.

Bad News:

Only fair mileage, tiny rear jump seats, so you’ll need to move up to the Crew Cab if you want 4 doors, and that’s a few grand more.

Standard Equipment:

4.0 liter 261 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, shift on the fly 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case with 4 high and 4 low, electronic locking rear differential, power assisted steering, independent front suspension and multi-leaf rear suspension with solid axle, Bilstein off road high pressure shocks, 4-wheel ABS vented disc brakes, 4-wheel active brake limited slip, and electronic brake force distribution, dynamic vehicle control, tire pressure monitoring, security system with immobilizer, hill start assist and hill descent control,16” off road machine finish alloy wheels, front and side and roof mounted side curtain airbags, LATCH tether system for children, reclining front bucket seats, 8-way manual driver seat with lumbar support and fold flat passenger seat, tilt column with leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and cruise and radio controls, cruise control, audio with CD, MP3 and XM Satellite radio, Bluetooth phone, trip computer, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power windows and auto locking locks, cargo light, fog lights, power mirrors, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates, sliding rear window with lock, utility track channel system with 4 adjustable tie down cleats, bed rail caps, detachable tailgate with lock, front and rear splash guards and front tow hook.

Gas Stats:

$3.29/ Gal avg. Jan 4, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

14 City and 19 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $28,870.

2011 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Quattro MT6 Sedan (846)

16-12-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Audi Q5 quattro full time All Wheel Drive Tiptronic. Quattro AWD was introduced in Audi racing about 30 years ago and it was wisely adopted by the production models.

The A5 is a smaller version of the Q7 for about $14,000 less. A 3.2 liter 270 horsepower V6 is available if the 211 hp Inline 4 is not enough for you. Both have the dual panel sunroof for a super large opening. Nice.

It is interesting to me that annual sales in the US is only 10% of total annual sales of just over a million units. In contrast, for example, Ford total annual unit sales was about 13 million of which Europe accounts for about 4.5 million in 2009.
Opinion:
Toll Roads in Southern California – If this doesn’t chap your hide you’re comatose. We pay gas taxes up the Kazoo for our roads and our crooked government slip this one by us.

There are toll lanes on the 91 freeway between Anaheim Hills and Corona, and actual toll roads (241, 261, 133, & 73) going through Orange County. 241 goes from Yorba Linda down to Orange, then to Rancho Santa Margarita. 261 goes from Orange to Jamboree & I5. 133 branches off the 241 in El Toro, and goes to Barranca in Irvine. 73 goes from the 405 in Costa Mesa/Newport Beach along the coast, and meets up with I5 in Mission Viejo.
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI Quattro MT6 Sedan. The 2011 Audi A4 continues unchanged after a redesign for 2009. Consumer Reports says “the A4 has a firm, yet supple and controlled ride, with agile handling”. Flowery words, but yeah, it is a great ride?

They go on to say, “The four-cylinder turbo engine is responsive and gets 22 mpg overall with the AWD system. The interior has excellent fit and finish, but the rear seat is tight. The MMI driver-interaction system is complicated. A wagon and high-performance S4 are also available”.

Well I agree with their take on the car generally and especially want to say I couldn’t agree more that the electronics and controls are much more complicated than they need to be. It is however, just a thing about the Europeans and has been consistent over the years and that is particularly true of the German cars.

The Japanese and the Americans are the best at making things simple as they tend to be more direct in how things should work. It makes you wonder if everything else is more complicated than it needs to be in this Audi.

Opinion:
I would like to hear from you on the Diamond Lane. On some highways you can enter and exit anywhere along the route while others put more yellow paint down than all the school busses ever made. But my question is, are those double, and double double yellow lines really there when outside the hours when exclusively to be used for 2 or more occupants in the car? In other words, can you cross over those lines meant to be effective during high traffic hours?

My opinion is that you should be able to use that lane just as if it were like any other lane during ‘off’ hours.
My email is joe@atthewheel.com.

Handling & Performance:
The turbo charger gives any car that performance edge that I like a lot. The car is also a perfect size so it handles perfectly for me. Larger folks may find it a little small. So there are other models better suited to tall guys.

Styling:
Classic Audi look that is popular as evidenced by the growth of numbers of Audi’s on the highway. Unique lighting Audi has introduced to the industry.

Fit and Finish:
Excellent.

Cost:
Expected range and a lot of quality for the investment.

Conveniences and comfort:
You have to love all the hi-tech stuff on cars today. Rain Sensing, for one, is easy to warm up to primarily because it eliminates one more distraction in the driving experience.

Consumer Recommendation:
Recognized Competition:

Audi A4 $32-36,000, Acura TL $35-44,000, Acura TSX $30-38,000, BMW 3-Series $34-59,000, BMW M3 $55-67,000, Buick Regal $26-29,000, Cadillac CTS $35-62,000, Hyundai Azera $25-30,000, Hyundai Equus $58-65,000, Hyundai Genesis $33-43,000, Hyundai Genesis Coupe $22-32,000, Infiniti G Convertible $45-57,000, Infiniti G Coupe $36-50,000, Infiniti G Sedan $31-44,000, Lexus ES 350 $35,525, Lexus IS $32-41,000, Lexus IS C $40-45,000, Lexus IS F $59,010, Lincoln MKZ $34-36,000, Lincoln MKZ Hybrid $34,330, Mazda 6 $20-29,000, Mercedes Benz C-Class $34-58,000, Saab 9-3 $29-45,000, Subaru Legacy $20-31,000, Suzuki Kizashi $19-27,000, Volkswagen CC $28-40,000, Volkswagen Passat $27,915, Volvo S40 $28-31,000, Volvo S60 $37,700.

Good News:

Good fuel economy, fast, comfortable, handles well and a real distinctively pretty presence on the road, and price competitive.

Bad News:

No complaints except for questionable choice of electronics that is not as user friendly as it could be. Others do a better job than the German auto makers.
Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 211 horsepower inline 4 cylinder turbo charged engine, 6-speed manual transmission with O/D, Quattro permanent all wheel drive, ABS power disc brake system, 17” alloy wheels, speed sensitive power steering, climate control, power glass sunroof, power windows and locks with speed sensitive auto locks, leather and leather wrapped steering wheel, audio with in dash CD player and SIRIUS satellite radio, front, side and side curtain airbags, anti-theft system and LATCH child safety system.

Gas Stats:

$3.29/ Gal avg. Dec 27, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

21 City and 31 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $32,850.

2011 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Touring (841)

16-11-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Touring. It receives a new 2.5-liter engine for 2.5X trim levels delivering 170 horsepower with 21/27 city/hwy mpg. The Forester 2.5X Touring is added to the lineup to be positioned above the Limited with standard equipment that includes HID headlights, display audio system with backup camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, silver finish roof rails, electro-luminescent gauges and side mirrors with integrated turn indicators.
It is generally pointed out by most reviewers that Forester is a great smaller SUV competitor, and I agree. It has distinguished itself over the years with AWD standard and that is typically a quality seen only on more expensive brands.
General Info: 0% of Parts are from the US and Canadian; 100% come from Japan including the Engine & Transmission. It is assembled in Gunma, Japan. Class is SUV AWD. Cars from Subaru include Forester, Impreza, Impreza WRX, Legacy, Outback & Tribeca.

Opinion:

Cell Phones – come on guys – you can’t multi-task as much as you think you can at 70-80 mph. The problem is even worse at lower speeds because it is obviously a distraction no matter how ‘good’ or ‘better’ you think you are than the rest of us on the road. This is illegal activity while driving is where I encourage law enforcement to issue citations to those drivers that endanger us all with such rude behavior. OK – a woman who puts on make up while driving tops cell phone use even though women tend to be great multi-tasker’s by nature. Ever watch a woman with a baby on her hip or elsewhere doing almost anything in addition? Amazing.
Back to the freeway, speed alone ‘doesn’t kill’ or every race driver would be dead. But when you couple driving with the distraction of holding a cell phone to your ear you should be fined.
Other observers can’t help but notice how those drivers trying to multi-task tend to speed up, slow down, weave and drift from lane to lane.
If you must drive and talk on the phone hands free is also a must.
Handling & Performance:
Lively power from Turbocharger. All Wheel Drive on all Subaru models give it that road hugging feel and of course it adds a great deal of confidence in all road conditions. A really nice solid ride albeit stiffer suspension than you may like.

Styling:

Jeep, Honda and Dodge stand out of the field in styling variation. All others in the group could be siblings. All are stylishly contemporary. Me, I like the difference of the three mentioned that are all more squarely prominent and distinct.
Fit and Finish:
Typically good as is generally true of all in class.

Cost:

Price is very close in this grouping of SUV’s.
Conveniences and comfort:
Most first impressions are that back up camera’s are a good thing. To me they are more of a novelty and the safest way to back up is still to turn your body and look at where you are going for the best and safest driving habit due to peripheral visibility you simply do not get from a back up camera.
Consumer Recommendation:You have your work cut out for you in the search in this class SUV. There are a lot to choose from that are all pretty nice. I suggest you start with your favorite brands and then consider in order of importance the new kid on the block – the Korean models. Include all American made models and avoid the Hybrid’s as they are way too expensive for what they deliver. Sorry all you Green people, but I just report from my experience from owning an automotive repair shop to manufacturing and running the worlds largest automotive products distributor to reviewing all makes of cars over the past 20 years on and off the race track has helped too.
Recognized Competition (MSRP):Subaru Forester $28,000, Chevrolet Equinox $24,000, Dodge Nitro $29,000, Ford Escape $26,000, Ford Escape Hybrid $34,000, Honda CR-V $28,000, Honda Element $24,000, Hyundai Tucson $26,000, Jeep Liberty $25,000, Jeep Patriot $24,000, Kia Sorento $27,000, Kia Sportage $25,000, Mazda 5 $24,000, Mazda Tribute $27,000, Mercury Mariner $27,000, Mercury Mariner Hybrid $32,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $28,000, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport $23,000, Nissan Rogue $24,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $25,000, Toyota RAV4 $26,000.
Good News:

Well equipped AWD performer.

Bad News:

Stiff suspension that should be relaxed since few will ever get off road and only fair fuel economy numbers will detract as prices are heading for $5 / gal.
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter 170 horsepower 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, symmetrical all wheel drive, dynamic control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, front and side curtain airbags, anti-theft alarm and immobilizer system, tire pressure monitor, dual zone climate control, power windows, locks and mirrors, Bluetooth connectivity, audio with HD/CD, leather seats & steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, 10 way driver power seats, all weather package with heated front seats, power moon roof, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, tilt / telescopic steering wheel.
Gas Stats:
$4.05/ Gal avg. April 1, 2011
www.fueleconomy.govfor more information.
19 City and 24 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $29,995.

2011 Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab Long Wheel Base 4X4 (840)

09-11-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2011 Dodge Ram 2500 Laramie Crew Cab Long Wheel Base 4X4. This is one big truck. It barely fits under my car port. It reminds me of my friend Norm who is too tall for any bed, which gives me an idea – I could park it corner to corner… that might work. I’ll let you know.They tell me size doesn’t matter. But you know, it really does… know what I mean.
Well, anyway, I’m sure there are people who can put the size to good use but it is a pain to take it places where the size is inconvenient – like going shopping, running to the store for a quart of milk and eggs… that kind of thing. This Ram means Business and it is right at home on the range where the buffalo roam and there is lots of room to turn around. Speak of a bull in a china closet…

Handling & Performance:

I’d be surprised if you weren’t impressed with how fast and smooth a ride this Laramie delivers. I was totally blown away. Before I knew it, as I entered the freeway and looked at the speedometer, I was doing 90 and I swear officer I could have bet my lunch that I wasn’t doing over 67 and a half miles per hour. I backed off and thought – if only I were in Wyoming, or Montana, or some other Big Sky Western State. But no, I was in California, the western version of New – York – City! Here, in California, you used to be able to sing “Oh Give me land, lots of land under starry skys above… don’t fence me in…”. God those were the days.

And thanks to this Laramie I’m reminded of those simpler times. But the good news is that I don’t have to hitch up the horses to the wagon to get things move’n. I’ll bet you could haul two tons of hay in this big fella.

It just about made me forget my youthful days when we’d refer to things made in Mexico as put together with bail’n wire and chew’n gum. Old habits and opinions are hard to shake. Those were the days when ‘Made in Mexico’ was about as bad as ‘Made in China’. Surely it serves a lot of good in that it keeps the cost down and well if that ain’t re-distribution of American Wealth I don’t know what is.

Now don’t get me wrong, I got nuth’n a-genst out-surs-en. Hell we could even get back to doing our own farm’n and pick’n right here in the old US of A again like we used to.

Well will ya look-e here – I been a rambling on … sorry I just couldn’t help myself.

Styling:

This is a pretty plain Jane look but the frills are definitely in there. It’s pretty, like the girl next door. Come to think of it her name was Jane too and I’m appreciating this Laramie all the more.

Fit and Finish:

Actually the attention to detail is quite good, which I find almost unimportant in a work truck like this class of truck. Beverly Hills applications are rare because that ‘ilk’ would simply get somebody else to do the heavy lifting and if they wanted to appear like real people they would pick up a Cadillac Escalade and not a work truck.

Cost:

Consider this observation. You would hardly bat an eye if I were a contractor and pulled up to give you an estimate in a $54,000 truck, but you can bet if I pulled up in a $54,000 Mercedes Benz you’d give the job to someone else. Perception my friends, perception.

Cost is also relative in another way. Consider the cost of an 18 wheeler brand spank’n new is under $100,000. And as an aside, it is sad that in today’s market you can buy that big rig used for about $20,000. Why, because there ain’t no shovel ready work bro. Speaking of bro’s, brother John has three trucks just a sittin ‘cause there isn’t a damn thing going on in construction. I don’t know about you but I’m ready for real change.

Consumer Recommendation:

If you’re employed or have a small business that needs a truck buy it this year and take advantage of 179 tax code property where you can write off up to $250,000 in the first year. The vehicle must be 6,000 lbs or greater, which this Dodge Ram is.

I thought a little tax advice wouldn’t hurt… especially since the all knowing present federal government administration in its infinite wisdom will get rid of such tax incentives next year. I miss ya George, and Ronnie Baby – Especially Ronnie even more than Nancy does.

Conveniences and comfort:

All of ‘em you need and more you don’t need.

Recognized Competition:

Dodge Ram 2500 $23-29,000, Chevrolet Silverado $38-49,000, Ford F-250 Super Duty $47-62,000, GMC Sierra 2500 HD $28-34,000.

Good News:

Fast and smooth, the quietest diesel you’ll ever drive, a work horse and if used in business Uncle Sam will pay a good chunk of the price (in the form of less tax on your income), and with a low gear and torque that will pull a house.

Bad News:

A little pricey – unless of course you use it in business.

Standard Equipment:

5.7 liter inline 383 horsepower V8 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, front and front and rear side curtain airbags, 35 gal tank, tire pressure monitor, heavy duty cooling, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, remote keyless entry, theft deterrent & security alarm, cruise control, power windows and locks, auto headlights, power mirrors, park assist sensors, electric shift on the fly 4X4, auto dual zone air conditioning, Media center with 506W Alpine radio with CD, DVD, HDD and SIRIUS satellite and 9-speakers, power 10-way driver and 6-way passenger heated seats, heated steering wheel with audio controls, 40/20/40 split bench seat, rear 60/40 split folding seat, 12 volt power outlet with Uconnect with voice command and 115 Volt Aux power outlet, rear power sliding window.

Options included on this test vehicle:

6.7 liter Inline 6 Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine, 9600 pound GVW, diesel exhaust brake, tow hooks, upgraded media center, GPS Navigation system with SIRIUS traffic, Chrome tubular side steps, rear backup camera, integrated trailer brake controller, spray in bedliner, rear seat Video System and SIRIUS TV.

Gas Stats:

$2.99/ Gal avg. November 15, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

City and Highway MPG

Data not available, but that is deductible this year as well.

Pricing:

MSRP $42,650 with options $53,430.

2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (839)

01-11-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. I first tested it in 1995 and there is no question it has gone through gradual changes since then. But the biggest changes have been over the past ten years to give it more power and room. But for me the 2009 with the new styled grill and some lights and cowling enhancements has launched it into a whole new era for this lovely roadster. Thanks to the design folks who have done gradual thoughtful changes to this favorite of mine ever since that first test. I know it is hard to believe it could have ever been smaller than it is in 2011, but it was. More importantly it is more well made today and those of you who have owned as many as I have tested over the years can attest to the maturing of this great little sport car.

Well, Ilona and I took this 2011 MX-5 to Las Vegas for the SEMA / AAPEX show this year and it was a pleasure. She doesn’t like to drive so I got all the pleasure, but she commented on how well the ride felt. She has never complained about the smallness and I don’t either. It is what it is and when you put it on it fits perfectly. If you’re a diver you’ll be able to relate when I say it is like putting on a wet suit – without zippers.Well I must admit the luggage area is still limited and it makes you think carefully about what you will need to wear. Fortunately Ilona packs light and if you need a suit you’d best wear it on the trip rather than trying to fit it in the car. Even so it was good the hotel had an iron and ironing board. Me, well I would have put the top down but I didn’t even suggest it, know what I mean ladies.

Handling & Performance:

Mileage numbers have not improved since my review in 1999 with 25 and 29 mpg when horsepower was only 140 then as compared to this 167 hp model in 2011. At introduction, the 1990 sported 116 horsepower and did no better in fuel economy than 1999. Handling however has improved greatly with a heavier more solid feel. It is as stable at 90 as it is at lower, around town, speed.

Styling:

Mazda has made only subtle changes in overall look over the years, but it is more substantial or stronger looking and the wider and larger grille gives it a bigger car look. I particularly love the new styling that began in 2009. Nice job guys.

Fit and Finish:

Improvement over the years is nice to see for a car you like a lot. Although it has always been well fit together it is far beefier and eliminates that tinny sound of the early models when closing the hood, trunk and doors.

Cost:

At launch it was about $13,000. Considering the passage of time and the vast improvement in the car today’s pricing is quite good with the MSRP of $23,000.

Consumer Recommendation:

The closest competition comes from GM with the Solstice and the Sky but nothing else touches these three pricewise. Clearly this Mazda and the American cars are the best buys in this class car for the money. More importantly you gain very little in driving pleasure with the more expensive foreign badges. If you have money to burn, well that’s another story, but Forest Gump said it best, “Stupid is Stupid does”. You can stretch your hard earned buck by going with one of these three in class.

Conveniences and comfort:

I particularly appreciate the ease of putting the top up and down. But then I owned an MGB with the classic soft top that took two people an hour to put it down. Ok, the hour is a stretch but that’s what it felt like. Thank God for technology and thank those guys who used it to design this top.

Recognized Competition:

Mazda MX-5 Miata $23-29,000, Audi TT $38-49,000, BMW Z4 $47-62,000, Lotus Elise $47-55,000, Mercedes-Benz SLK $48-53,000, MINI Cooper $19-34,000, Pontiac Solstice $24-30,000, Porsche Boxster $48-58,000, Saturn Sky $28-34,000.

Good News:

Great styling, nice ride, fun to drive, great hardtop convertible totally automatic.

Bad News:

Limited cargo and storage spaces and hard to get in and out of, especially after a long drive.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter inline 4-cylinder 167 horsepower engine, 6 speed manual transmission, rear wheel drive, front & rear stabilizer bars, aluminum power plant frame, 17” alloy wheels, power mirrors, aluminum hood, power retractable hard top, 2-passenger seating, tilt leather steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, power windows and locks, driver seat height adjuster, anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, electronic power assisted rack and pinion steering, front double wishbone suspension with rear multi-link suspension, halogen headlights, fog lights, auxiliary audio input jacks, Bose audio with 6 disc CD/MP3 and 7 speakers, remote keyless entry with smart key, heated leather seats and leather trimmed hand brake and shift knob, trip computer, auto climate control, front and side airbags, anti-theft engine immobilizer and tire pressure monitor.

Gas Stats:

$2.95/ Gal avg. November 9, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

21 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $28,400.

2011 Kia Sportage EX AWD (838)

27-10-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2011 Kia Sportage EX AWD crossover / SUV. Here is yet another Korean made SUV that has been earning its place in the US market. I recommended a Kia Sorento for my daughter Jen and it has served her well in the role of soccer mom – toting the kids to and fro with school and sports and everything in between. Price is what moved her to a Korean car and I haven’t been sorry I nudged her in that direction. Simply put she got more for her money. Secondly and equally important is that the economy has dictated much of what we do to save money.

Guess what… every time you buy a foreign made car or a US car that is made in a foreign country you are “OUTSOURCING”. Dirty word? Not really. You do it because you must. You support other economies because they don’t have unions and therefore can produce products cheaper than heavily burdened companies. We do in America and they have outlived their usefulness in ‘today’s world’.

As to this Kia – The price is right and the product has stood the test of time now for long enough now to give us confidence that it is here to stay.

Handling & Performance:

These newer SUVs are lower to the ground and although they are not as well suited to off road use they are better on the highways. But this Sportage sports AWD – All Wheel Drive – which gives it sure footing in all road conditions. A short turning radius and smaller size makes it agile and well suited to zipping around town and easier when it comes to parking. The 176 horse engine is perfect for this size car with average to good fuel consumption.

Styling:

The Sportage is new for 2011 with a modern, clean design that features a high beltline, sweeping angles and more pronounced wheel flares than its predecessor. The second-generation Sportage debuted as a 2005 model with a sportier and more elegant design than its more rugged predecessor and more interior room due to a longer wheelbase and wider stance. The Sportage was first introduced in 1995 and in 1997 Sportage adopted the automobile industry’s first knee airbag to augment its high level of standard equipment. For the 1999 model year, Kia added a 2-door Sportage convertible with a removable soft-top over the rear seat area with a fixed hardtop over the front seat area.

Fit and Finish:

Very good.

Cost:

As expected Korea has come to play and are slightly more price competitive. But it is slight and the competition is fierce with only two US products – Chevrolet and Jeep.

Consumer Recommendation:

Unless you intend to do a lot of off roading this Kia fits in well with the competition. Jeep remains the only option here in class for off road use. I had done a lot of off road stuff with Jeep and remain impressed with the performance in that venue. The liberty therefore would have an edge over the rest of the field for me.

Conveniences and comfort:

I like most of us, love gadgets and gizmos. But they are not only fun they are functional and help us to enjoy the driving experience. One such new feature on the scene these days is ‘voice activated’ control. You know how many Nav systems require you are stopped to input a destination? Well enter ‘voice activation’ and wa-la you just tell it where you want to go and it will make that happen at full speed. This is really cool. Then if you want to change the radio station you can do the same thing. You push a button on the steering wheel and the system asks for a command and you tell it what you want to do.

Recognized Competition:

Kia Sportage $18-25,000, Chevrolet Equinox $23-30,000, Ford Escape $21-27,000, Honda CR-V $22-30,000, Hyundai Tucson $19-26,000, Jeep Liberty $23-28,000, Mazda Tribute $20-29,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $21-29,000, Nissan JUKE $19-25,000, Nissan Rogue $21-26,000, Subaru Forester $20-28,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $19-27,000, Toyota RAV4 $22-28,000.

Good News:

Competitive, great around town car, good fuel economy.

Bad News:

None.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter inline 4 cylinder 176 hp engine, 6-speed auto trans, power steering, power 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, all wheel drive, front and side curtain airbags, traction control, stability control, up & downhill brake assist, rollover protection system, tire pressure monitoring, LATCH system (child safety), dual zone climate control, power windows and locks, power mirrors, keyless entry, audio with CD/MP3/ 6 speakers, SIRIUS satellite radio, USB & aux audio inputs, power front seats with lumbar, 60/40 split folding rear seats, cooling glove box, cruise control with trip computer, tilt leather wrapped steering wheel with audio, cruise & Bluetooth controls, roof rails, fog lights, auto headlights and privacy and solar glass.

Gas Stats:

$3.03/ Gal avg. November 2, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

21 City and 28 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $24,795.

2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS (836)

10-10-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS FWD sedan. Now in its second model year it is Suzuki’s most expensive vehicle in the crowded mid-sized segment. Its name in Japanese means “something great is coming.” They claim it is an alternative to the Audi A4 and arguably the best deal in this class.
It is offered in four trim levels: S, SE, GTS and SLS. All trims are powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that produces 185 horsepower when mated with the 6-speed manual transmission and 180 horsepower when equipped with the available CVT.

Standard equipment includes automatic climate control; power windows, locks and mirrors; push-button starting; and AM/FM/CD audio system with USB port. The SE adds a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels. The GTS comes with fog lights, a sunroof, a 425-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system with Bluetooth audio streaming and cell phone connectivity, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The SLS adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, power front passenger seat and rear park assist. Options include a navigation system with a rearview camera and an all-wheel-drive system with heated outside mirrors.

Opinion:

• Washington Post – “The Kizashi is the best car yet to come to the United States wearing a Suzuki badge. The exterior is round and solid in homage to European small-car design.”
• Consumer Guide – “Suzuki positions Kizashi as a penny pincher’s premium sport sedan. The car is aimed at shoppers who aspire to upscale sporty sedans such as the Acura TSX or Audi A4, but may not have the budget. In terms of engine performance and overall refinement, Kizashi comes up a bit short of its goal. However, it delivers nimble, sports-sedan-worthy handling while maintaining a composed and relatively pleasant ride.”.
• I’ve read that others feel that a name change would do wonders, and I agree and perhaps something great IS coming in a new name for this serious contender for top billing along with the established badges on the road.
Handling & Performance:

The 185 horsepower engine and 6-speed manual transmission is a top performer and of course fun to drive. It will do 0-60 in 8 seconds relative to say a 6 liter corvette that will do it in half that time to put it into perspective. But this is a great all around car to own because it also carries 4 large adults and will carry a load of groceries and other things the Vette won’t.

Styling:

Clean and simple and indeed a contender for other more expensive badges. Unchanged from its introduction in 2010.

Fit and Finish:

Typical close attention to detail the Japanese have come to be known for.

Cost:

Mid-range in a crowd of very nice cars and unchanged from the 2010 edition.

Conveniences and comfort:
Competitive with the best of them.

Recognized Competition:

Suzuki Kizashi $19-27,000, Acura TSX $29-38,000, Audi A4 $32-36,000, Buick LaCrosse $26-33,000, Chevrolet Malibu $22-27,000 Chrysler Sebring $20-33,000, Dodge Avenger $20-22,000, Ford Fusion $20-29,000, Honda Accord $21-32,000, Hyundai Sonata $19-25,000, Infiniti G Sedan $33-37,000, Kia Optima $18-23,000, Lexus ES 350 $35,175, Lincoln MKZ $34-36,000, Mazda 6 $19-29,000, Mercury Milan $22-28,000, Mitsubishi Galant $22-24,000, Nissan Altima $20-30,000, Subaru Legacy $20-31,000, Toyota Camry $20-29,000, Volkswagen Jetta $15-24,000, Volvo S40 $26-31,000.

Good News:

Nice handling, keyless ignition, quiet, agile and all around good commuter and family sedan.

Bad News:

Nothing worth mentioning.

Standard Equipment:

2.4 liter 185 hp 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, variable assist power steering, Electronic Stability Program, Traction control system, 8 standard air bags front, side and side curtain, tire pressure monitoring, fog lights, security system with smartpass keyless entry and start, power sunroof, dual zone climate control, Rockford Fosgate audio with MP3 and USB input, Bluetooth system, leather, rain sensing wipers, reverse parking sensors, cruise control, tilt and telescoping leather wheel, 10-way power driver and passenger heated seats, power heated mirrors, sport tuned suspension, light weight sport wheels and sport designed steering wheel.

Gas Stats:

$3.07/ Gal avg. November 27, 2010
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.

20 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $24,699.

2011 Ford Fiesta (835)

03-10-2010Autolove No comments

Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2011 Ford Fiesta. Wow, what happened to 2010? And what happened to the Fiesta since the one I bought in 1978. Daughter Jenny got a hand-me-down when she turned 16, with all confidence that it was a great first car for her to finish through high school.

The Fiesta is Ford’s all-new small car that comes to the North American market for the first time after success in other markets around the world – so says Ford. I’m yet to find out how my 1978 Fiesta relates to this NEW 2011 version.

It is offered in 4-door and 5-door hatchback versions, Ford claims 15 class-exclusive technologies for the Fiesta, resulting in luxury and convenience typically expected in more expensive models. I’m with ‘em on this. Fiesta is included in what they call ONE Ford plan, which is to design and develop vehicles for customers in markets around the world. More than 500,000 Fiestas have been sold in Europe and Asia, and I expect it will be a popular car here in the US.

Opinion:

Changing lanes – beware and alert when you change lanes. Avoid moving into the blind spot of the car in the lane you intend moving into, because they won’t see you and if they too make a move it too often results in a collision.

Posted Speed laws – unreasonably low posted speeds make law breakers of us all. Shame on the State of California posted speeds haven’t changed since your grandpa was driving a Model T. Many will tell you it is more about revenue generation than anything else. California already is known for having the highest fines for traffic violations than any other state. Shame, Shame, Shame on law makers!

We could get rid of hidden taxes in the form of traffic citations if we would simply fire some of those free loading bureaucrats.

But, in the meantime you will find the following link useful as a refresher on the rules of the road. Watch some of these DMV driving videos and I think you’ll agree it is an invaluable yet easy to watch visual explanation of driving etiquette for new or younger drivers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrycG2Qzpy4

Handling & Performance:

Powered by a 1.6-liter 119 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, the Fiesta is expected to achieve 40 mpg highway when equipped with the PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission and Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS). I tested the manual transmission model and it is geared well to overcome the low power so you will notice that on those long uphill inclines you must continue to downshift until you find the gear that will pull the grade. The 5-speed manual transmission handled everything well including starting out from a stop even on an uphill position.

Styling:

The ‘Fiesta’ was very basic in the ‘70s and still is, but the design is deceptive in that it looks like a more expensive class automobile. It has matured and has a more streamlined look. Inside it is also more sophisticated looking and has features that add to the feel that you are in a more expensive brand / model. However it is the little things that bug us and for me it is the sun visors that I will complain about if they do not extend to cover more of the side window.

Fit and Finish:

Very good in class.

Cost:

Average in this class.

Conveniences and comfort:

The years that have passed since I owned the 1978 Fiesta have allowed a lot of features and for the money Ford has included much more than I expected. For example, it is comfortable even on a long drive which I found out on a quick trip up to Santa Barbara and Buellton / Solvang areas in California. It was for a golf outing and that required two men with large Pro – size golf bags and luggage. It was very comfy but I think, in a pinch, we could have taken one more without much trouble. Four would be pushing it for trips of more than an hour.

The AC is very good and the Cruise Control works fabulously especially since it is married to a manual transmission. A small feature I like is the cap-less gas filler that is more common most recently. I believe they will be standard equipment on all cars in time.

Recognized Competition:

Ford Fiesta $13-17,000, Chevrolet Aveo $12-15,000 Chevrolet Aveo5 $12-15,000, Honda CR-Z $19-23,000, Honda Fit $15-19,000, Hyundai Accent $10-15,000, Kia Rio $12-15,000, Kia Rio5 $14-15,000, Mazda 2 $14-15,000, Nissan Versa $10-17,000, Scion xD $15-16,000, Smart fortwo $12-21,000, Suzuki SX4 Crossover $16-20,000, Suzuki SX4 Sport $13-19,000, Toyota Yaris $13-14,000.

Good News:

Affordable transportation that also looks more stylish than the price would imply, great fuel economy for a family commuter.

Bad News:

A bit underpowered pulling the hills, sun visors could bug you too.

Standard Equipment:

1.6 liter 119 horsepower inline 4 cylinder engine, 5 speed manual transmission, 16’ aluminum wheels, cap-less gas filler, power heated mirrors with inserts to expand rear view of other lanes, power windows and locks, audio input jack with USB, SIRIUS satellite radio, 12v Power outlet, leather wrapped steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, air conditioning, remote keyless entry with security anti-theft system and engine immobilizer, child safety rear door locks, trip computer, front disc and rear drum ABS brakes, front, side and side curtain and driver knee air bags.

Gas Stats:

$3.05/ Gal avg. October 20, 2010

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

29 City and 38 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $13-17,000.

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