Archives for November 2015

Crossing Over With the Audi Q3

November 30, 2015 by admin 9 Comments

Audi has the luxury utility vehicle market sewn up. The German automaker offers three distinct model lines — Q3, Q5 and Q7 — along with the Allroad and the very wagon-like A3 Sportback e-tron, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle with a very sensible price.

What is missing from the Audi range, at least thus far in the 2016 model year, is its line of turbo-diesel engines. Audi is the major luxury marque for the Volkswagen Group and it is VW that admitted in September to fabricating its emissions testing to circumvent the EPA’s pollution guidelines. As a result, Audi’s 2.0-liter TDI engine is not available in any model. At least not until the automaker presents a fix that is acceptable to the EPA.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro

That leaves just one engine choice in some models, including in the 2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro, a recent weekly visitor and part of my ever changing test fleet. The Q3 is a compact SUV, with the Q5 serving as the midsize model and the Q7 as the full-size SUV. I’ve driven all three vehicles, including a previous Q3 TDI and have always been fascinated by Audi’s styling, build quality and its performance.

Despite not having a diesel under the hood this time, I was impressed by the gas-powered Audi Q3. More about that later, but first let’s take a look at its styling and interior attributes.

Like its larger siblings, the Audi Q3 is marked by a distinct fascia with a large trapezoidal grille featuring the expected four-ring Audi logo. Wraparound headlights and LED daytime running lights as well as large pockets housing the available fog lamps are also present.

Deep creases run along the hood and are repeated along this model’s profile. Body sculpting, an even belt line, aluminum wheels, and rocker panel embellishments are also present. To the rear, this model is equipped with a liftgate spoiler, upper and lower combination lamps, and dual-tipped exhaust pipes.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

Leather and Aluminum Interior

Inside, the Audi Q3 provides room for five. Its compact interior, however, doesn’t skimp on comfort: the front bucket seats provide 12-way power adjustment with lumbar support. The 60-40 split folding rear seat includes a center pass through — a welcome feature when you need to tote something long, such as skis, and you don’t want to miss more than one seating position.

And even if a seating position is absent, the rear seat is best enjoyed by two adults — hip and shoulder room are crowded back there. Further, if you are considering a model of the Q3’s stature and have teenagers, the Audi Q5 may be the superior choice here — rear leg room is tight in the Q3 for anyone remotely close to adult size.

Audi presents interior layouts that are refined, uncomplicated and comfortable. In the Q3 you’ll find leather nearly everywhere with aluminum trim providing rich accents across the dashboard around the center console and on to the door inlays.

The instrument panel features a two-analog dial display — tachometer and speedometer — with a digital driver’s information center in the middle. The information center is controlled by switches found on the face of the steering wheel. On the dashboard just above the center stack is a stand up screen with a multi media interface (MMI).

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

Multi Media Interface (MMI)

The MMI arrangement is fairly straightforward — the sharp screen makes everything easy to understand. You can also access secondary hardware switches if preferred — and that’s a fine feature when the touchscreen gesture control doesn’t work out for you. The one big drawback of this system is that there is no USB port included — you must connect your phone to one of the supplied cables, provided that cable is right for your phone.

Below the display screen in the center stack are large vents, followed by audio system and climate control switches and knobs. Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats are standard. All models come equipped with a 10-speaker Bose audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a rear view camera.

Audi prices the Q3 from $33,700 for its Premium Plus edition and $38,600 for the Prestige model. The base model is front-wheel drive; the Prestige is all-wheel drive. Most customers will likely opt for all-wheel drive as it is the preferred handling option of the two.

All models come equipped with a panoramic sunroof, eight beverage holders (including in-door drink holders in each door), 12-volt power outlets, ambient LED lighting, and a rear view camera. Choose the Prestige model and you have the navigation system, Audi side assist safety, a 14-speaker Bose audio system and the S Line appearance package.

For $40,300, the all-wheel drive test model added a rich monsoon gray metallic finish ($575) and a power liftgate ($400) to the option list. That’s an attainable price point for anyone aspiring to own an Audi with its famed quattro system included.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

On the Road

You attain all of 200 horses to move the Q3 as you make your way down the road. It is a turbocharged system, designed to minimize lag while offering optimum power. The suspension system is composed of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link layout for the rear — both are attached to the SUV’s body by subframes.

A rigid body structure aids in mitigating body roll and this SUV’s agility is apparent when making normal turns as well as handling the twisty roads that always reveal the true capabilities of such models. Its higher ground clearance is not much of a negative attribute — I found the Q3 remains composed under a variety of driving conditions.

Opt for the sport package ($550) and your Q3 brings in Audi drive select, a leather-covered multifunction sports steering wheel with paddle shifters, and front bucket seats. Audi drive select is managed by a button — when activating the system it controls the shift points and throttle mapping. Yes, you can enjoy a more robust driving experience even with an SUV.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

The Chief Competitors

Diesel absence notwithstanding, the gas-powered Audi Q3 should deliver everything shoppers in this segment want. The Q3’s chief competitors are a formidable lot and include the Cadillac SRX, BMW X1, Lexus NX, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and the Lincoln MKC. Like the Audi, each model seats five, but four is always the better choice.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro Tiptronic

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro

Sticker price from $35,800
Price as tested: $40,300
Seats 5 occupants
2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine
200 horsepower @ 5,100 to 6,000 RPM
207 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,700 to 5,000 RPM
3.19 inches bore by 3.44 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 9.6-to-1
Six-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 102.5 inches
Length: 172.8 inches
Width: 79.5 inches (including mirrors)
Height: 62.6 inches
Passenger volume: NR
Storage volume: 16.71/48.2 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 16.9 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,682 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top safety pick
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 12 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Martorell, Spain

How to Get Your Car Ready for Winter

November 27, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

The first very cold weather of the season has arrived and that means winter will soon settle in. Seasonal extremes can take its toll on your car, but if you’re prepared you can avoid the worst that it has to offer. To that end, we’ll take a look at some steps you can take to help get your car ready for winter.

winter plow — Winter is coming. Are you ready?

1. Review your owner’s manual. The first thing you should do is pull out the owner’s manual from your glove box and reacquaint yourself with it. Go to the section for the maintenance schedule and choose the one that mirrors your driving habits. While most people follow the standard level of care, if you drive in the city, take to dusty roads or put a lot of miles on your car each year, then choose the “severe service” schedule. In any case, get those open items done before winter makes its home.

2. Change your oil and oil filter. Chances are your engine oil is due for a change. Today’s cars can usually go upwards of 7,500 miles between changes, but consult the owner’s manual for change interval information. When changing your oil for the winter season, go with 5W30 oil as it is ideal for winter use.

3. Replace your wiper blades and check your washer fluid. Your wiper blades may last as long as a year, but if your summer was particularly hot, they can become brittle and crack. Always change the blades if you notice streaking. Doing this job before winter settles in and again before next summer is a sensible approach. While you are at it, replenish the washer fluid. Choose a solution that has a greater concentration of alcohol to ensure that the line does not freeze during the winter.

4. Check your heating system. Just because the air conditioning was working so well during the summer doesn’t mean that the heating system will perform faithfully in the winter. Take your car on the road, turn the heat on high and determine if it is sufficiently warming the cabin and defrosting the windows. If it isn’t, then you may need to get it serviced. At the very least pop the hood and verify that the hoses are in good condition.

5. Examine the cooling system. If your coolant hasn’t been flushed in a few years, get this job done before winter arrives. Your coolant should be either yellow, blue or green. If it has lost its color, appears rusty or if you notice detritus floating in the fluid, then have it flushed. Verify that the hoses are in good condition and that the clamps are secure too.

6. Consider your tires. If you live in a place where snow is not common, your current tires should be sufficient. Still, you need to examine them to ensure that there is enough tread remaining. Also check your spare tire to determine its condition — you don’t want to have a flat tire on hand when you need a working spare. In places where snow is common, replacing your “all season” tires with snow tires makes sense. In fact, it may be required where you live or at least chains may need to be added. It is always best to put winter (snow) tires on all four wheels.

7. Probe the battery. If your car’s battery dies this winter, you’re not going anywhere. Most car batteries last three years with some models hanging around for five years. No matter, check the connections to ensure that they’re clean and attached. If your battery is pushing its life limit, then replace it. Winter will only cause it to work harder — you might as well invest in a new one. By the way, ensure that your jumper cables are stashed away in your car whether you choose to buy a new car battery or not.

8. Inspect your brakes. Are your brakes ready for winter? New brakes pads and calipers may be in order. If you hear grinding when you apply the brakes, that is a sure sign that brake work is needed. Get this work done before you’re dealing with black ice, snow and frosty road conditions.

Here Comes Winter

What else can you do to prepare for the next winter wallop? If you travel a lot and are prone to head out to remote places, then an emergency kit is a smart idea. Include the usual emergency supplies, but also bring blankets, boots, winter clothing, food, and water. A fully charged cell phone and charger are essentials too, but neither will do you much good if you are out of cell phone range.

Finally, ensure that all lights are working, that you have extra fuses on hand, bring with you duct tape, spare hoses and belts, and inform someone not traveling with you of your route and of your plans. With your car in great shape and you taking the necessary driving precautions, you can handle everything that the season throws your way.

8 of the Worst Car Names of All Time

November 26, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

A car’s name is supposed to evoke respect as well as engender consumer interest in a product, but sometimes manufacturers choose an identity that does just the opposite. In some instances the car’s name may simply be a cultural mistake, what sounds right in the native tongue, but translates badly elsewhere.

We can’t always say for certain why a manufacturer would choose a particular (bad) name, but we can identify some of the worst car names of all times and the history behind those models.

1. Daihatsu Charade — Do you remember Daihatsu? If you don’t, no worries. This tiny Japanese automaker sold cars in the US briefly during the 1990s before pulling out of the market. One such model was the Charade, a compact car. Merriam-Webster defines charade as, “something that is done in order to pretend something is true when it is not really true.”

In this example, Daihatsu pretended to offer a competitive model, but customers found that the joke was on the manufacturer and never gave its products much love. After its US exit, Toyota took advantage of its controlling interest in Daihatsu to have the company supply it with various Scion cars for the US market.

2. Studebaker Dictator — Studebaker was one of the earliest US car manufacturers. In fact, it got started as a wagon manufacturer in 1852 before producing its first automobiles in 1897. In 1927, the company released the unfortunately named Studebaker Dictator. The automaker chose the term because it believed this model line composed of coupes and sedans “dictated the standard” for the industry.

What it caused was much angst, especially in European markets where Mussolini and later Hitler came to power. Studebaker began marketing the car as the “Director” in some countries, before canceling the name abruptly in 1937 as Europe was heading toward war.

3. Buick LaCrosse — In the US, the name “Buick LaCrosse” is acceptable. It may not have a formal meaning, although if it was written as Lacrosse, then everyone would know that it referenced the sport. But LaCrosse has another meaning, something French Canadians correlate with self gratification.

Yes, GM didn’t discover that odd play on the product’s name until after the fact, so the sedan was introduced as the Allure in Canada. However, GM later switched back to the LaCrosse moniker, using a new marketing campaign to demonstrate to Quebecois that they had the sport in mind and not something customers might deem inappropriate.

4. Dodge Dart Swinger — The Dodge Dart name has been revived, but a sub-model nickname that suggested promiscuity was not brought back this time. And for a good reason too.

Indeed, in the late 1960s when people began to experiment with “free love” in earnest, the “Swinger” appellation was ascribed to the hard top version of the Dodge Dart coupe. No one knows for sure why Dodge’s parent, the Chrysler Corporation chose the lively name, but it is certain that amongst certain mavericks it invited not a few winks and nods.

5. Volkswagen Thing — One of the oddest vehicles ever built was the Volkswagen Type 181. It was classified as a military vehicle, a four-door convertible that shared its mechanical underpinnings with the Volkswagen Beetle and Bus. When this vehicle was offered in the US, it was called the Volkswagen Thing.

The moniker wasn’t entirely inappropriate as the Thing defied easy description and categorization. Perhaps the lack of a coherent reason for the vehicle is why it was pulled from the US market in 1974, just two years after it was introduced.

Volkswagen Type 181 (Volkswagen Thing) — This Volkswagen Type 181 was also sold as the Thing.

6. Mitsubishi Minica Lettuce — One of the longest running and smallest models produced by Mitsubishi was the Minica, a “kei” or city car introduced in 1962 and cancelled nearly six decades later after eight generational changes. Available as a coupe, sedan or a wagon, it wasn’t until the sixth generation was introduced that a special name was ascribed to a new model and thus the Minica Lettuce was born.

That hatchback model with two doors on the passenger side and one door on the driver’s side was certainly different — perhaps it was for that reason marketers thought that “Lettuce” was a clever name too. Well, customers didn’t understand the salad connotation and four years later the new generation Minica was changed by Mitsubishi from “Lettuce” to “Toppo.” Whatever that means!

7. Honda That’s — Another kei car with a strange name was the Honda That’s. Perhaps inspired by the Volkswagen Thing, the diminutive Honda was a five-door “tall wagon” hatchback, an odd design at *that* — yes, you can see where this is going.

Introduced in 2002 and in production through 2006, the “That’s” name was revived the following year, then dropped. That’s all folks!

8. Volkswagen Touareg — What the heck is a Touareg anyway? We know that Tiguan is a cross between the German words for “tiger” and “iguana,” but Touareg seems a bit more mysterious.

Well, it turns out that the vehicle was named for the Berber speaking people of North Africa, as Volkswagen admired the people’s strength and adaptability. These are a semi nomadic people whose economy is based on “breeding livestock, agriculture, and trade,” according to the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art. It is also one of the hardest pronounced car names for English-speaking folk.

Best of the Worst

There are several other worst car names that did not make our list. These include the Isuzu Mysterious Utility Wizard, Mazda Scrum Truck, Renault Wind, Ford Probe, and the Mazda Laputa.

Oh, as for La Puta, that translates to “the prostitute” in Spanish. Ouch!

Photo Credits

1. Daihatsu Charade; Rudolph Strickler

2. Dodge Dart Swinger; Chrysler Corporation advertisement

4. Honda Thats; Honda of Japan

5. Mitsubishi Minica; TTTNIS

6. Studebaker Dictator; Loco Steve

7. Volkswagen Type 181 a/k/a the Thing; Sven Storbeck

8. Volkswagen Touareg; Volkswagen Group of America

See Also — 5 Models at Deaths Door

Cute Ute: 2016 Honda HR-V

November 25, 2015 by admin 27 Comments

Honda has enjoyed much success with its first two utility vehicles. Notably, its compact CR-V leads in that segment, while its larger, three-row Pilot competes effectively in its own space. A third model, the subcompact HR-V, was introduced on May 15 and six months later it is tearing up an emerging segment.

Clearly, the automaker once best known for its Civic and Accord coupes, hatchbacks and sedans, has found its own place in the SUV market. A 2016 Honda HR-V EX-L AWD edition was a recent weekly test project, a model built on the Honda Fit’s platform.

Before we look at the model at hand, let’s take in some perspective first.

The HR-V name is not new — it was used on a wagon-like model from 1999 to 2006 and was sold in Japan. Variants of this vehicle were offered in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Rim, but the first-generation HR-V was not offered in North America.

2016 Honda HR-V

Fast forward a decade and the mini SUV market in North America has changed. The current crop of small SUVs has been led by the Nissan Juke, but other models jumped in more recently, including the Chevrolet Trax, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3, and the Fiat 500X. Other manufacturers will models following include Toyota with its C-HR, the Ford EcoSport and the Hyundai Kona. The Kia Soul might also be considered a competitor here.

As for the Honda HR-V, this model’s arrival comes as consumers continue to shift their purchase considerations toward utility vehicles. Brands such as Chevrolet, Nissan, Ford and Toyota are well represented in that department; the HR-V provides Honda with more solid footing in the marketplace.

The 2016 Honda HR-V is available in LX, EX and EX-L Navi editions. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. The lowest cost model is an HR-V LX edition with a 6-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. At $19,115 it sets a low price bar.

Choose the EX and you’ll pay from $21,165. Honda then prices the EX-L Navi from $24,590. And if you haven’t figured it out yet, Navi means a navigation system is standard.

2016 Honda HR-V

As delivered, an EX-L Navi AWD edition was my weekly driver and priced from $25,840 with a $26,720 sticker price. The $880 difference represents the destination and handling charge; there were no other add-ons tacked on. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard.

Despite sharing its platform with the Fit, the Honda HR-V is longer, wider and taller than the subcompact hatchback. In effect, Honda added 3.2 inches between the wheels and 9.1 inches overall. Also, the HR-V sits nearly five inches wider and is 3.2 inches taller than the Fit. The crossover has also put on the pounds, adding approximately 500 of them to top 3,100 pounds.

Beyond that, the HR-V is a model in its own right. This model flows from bumper to bumper, projecting a vehicle in constant motion.

2016 Honda HR-V

Up front, the signature Honda grille is present and is accented by large, wraparound lighting assemblies. Sculpting across the lower fascia and on the hood give this model a more polished look. Sporty pockets surrounding the lower grille opening house the fog lamps.

The HR-V’s profile is marked by a rising belt line and a sloping roofline that ends in a liftgate spoiler. Along the sides are character lines and more sculpting, including a pronounced swoosh design that begins near the front roof pillar and runs across the doors and ends at the rear pillar. Rocker panel skirting and aluminum wheels provide additional fetching highlights for this diminutive SUV.

To the rear, wraparound combination lamps, additional sculpting, and reflectors are present. This model comes with a singular exhaust tip.

Inside, the cabin is compact, but fairly roomy. Oddly, this is the first Honda model to pass through my test fleet — hundreds of Chevrolets, Toyotas, Hyundais, Fords, Nissans, and Kias joined a handful of Fiat Chrysler models, but no Hondas. Until now.

That meant familiarizing myself with the layout of vehicles I have ridden in, but seldom have driven. The interior is marked by hard touch materials across the dashboard with soft touch materials on the lower dash and surrounding the console. Brightwork accents and leather — on the seat and enveloping the steering wheel — give this particular edition a premium look and feel.

2016 Honda HR-V

The front bucket seats are bolstered and supportive, providing an expected level of comfort for this class. What you won’t find are power-operated seats — manual adjustment is it and only the driver’s seat allows you to adjust the height level.

The rear bench seat is a 60-40 split fold design, what Honda calls its magic seat. The name seems appropriate as it allows you to adjust them to sit in a variety of positions, what Honda describes as tall mode, long mode, utility mode, and refresh mode.

With tall mode, you lift each section of the seat base, push the seat legs down and ensure they’re locked in place. Of special interest to sports-minded owners, tall mode makes it possible to place a bicycle within the cabin. Reverse the process by simply raising the seat legs and lowering the seat bases.

Choose long mode and you enjoy extra interior room with the rear seats folded. Simply remove the front passenger seat headrest and push the seat all the way back. By doing so you’ll provide enough room to carry a very long item, such as a floor lamp. Utility mode is achieved by lowering the rear headrests as far back as they will go before dropping the seat back into the rear passenger compartment. The HR-V’s low and flat floor provides excellent storage room. Lift the seat backs again and they can also tilt slightly back for added comfort.

One of the more intriguing seat positions is achieved through refresh mode. Here, you place the rear seats in tall mode before removing both front seat headrests, placing them to the side before lowering the seat back. Then, lower the rear seat back to connect to the front seat and you’ll have a pair of lounge chairs at the ready. Clearly, the seat gymnastics is a star point for this Honda, thus the magic connotation.

2016 Honda HR-V

The HR-V’s instrument panel is composed of a three-dial layout with the speedometer in the center, a tachometer to the left and digital information to the right. To amplify its “green” credentials — this model makes upwards of 35 mpg on the highway — the center dial rim shifts from a gray-colored light to green whenever you’re driving economically, which means nearly any time your foot isn’t on the accelerator or the cruise control isn’t raising RPMs in a bid to climb an incline.

The center console is a simple design with a 7-inch color display providing touchscreen control of the navigation system, your phone, audio system, and Link Connect — to connect your mobile device with Bluetooth. The system takes some getting used to, but I managed to plug in directions and have them returned to me accurately.

Below the color display is a panel for managing the climate control system — air conditioning, heat, front and rear defrosters, and the heated seats.

Between the front seats is the transmission stick, an electronic brake hold, two cup holders and a small arm rest with the tiniest storage area inside. Beyond the glove box, in-cabin storage seems limited, although there are bottle holders in each door. The center console is also a “floating” display and that means there is a storage area underneath with the attendant connectivity points. Side pockets on the console can hold your smartphones.

Behind the rear seats is a storage area with a cargo area light. Happily, underneath the floor is a full spare — no temporary spare or inflator to tide you over.

All Honda HR-V editions come equipped with air conditioning. A tilt and telescopic steering column, power accessories, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control are standard. Map lights, two 12-volt outlets, and a USB and auxiliary input port are included.

2016 Honda HR-V

Automatic climate control, Honda LaneWatch, push button start, and heated seats show up in the EX edition. Honda LaneWatch works by activating a camera on the right side of your vehicle and displays what it detects on the screen. Activation is automatic if you activate the right turn signal in preparation for switching lanes. There is also a switch on the stalk to give you a constant real-time display — as you might guess, lane changing accidents represents a high number of all car accidents. LaneWatch can help you avoid such a calamity.

All Honda HR-V models are powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower. Although a manual transmission is available, most models come equipped with a CVT. Sorry folks, but automatic transmissions cannot deliver the efficiency of a CVT — expect to see more of them in the years moving forward.

Slip behind the wheel, adjust your seat and mirrors, put on your seatbelt and find the right position for the steering column and you’re ready to go. The engine is suited for this model, providing adequate oomph as you step on the accelerator. But the annoying CVT also becomes apparent as the sound emanating from underneath the hood gets progressively louder. Somewhere near 5,000 RPM it eases back even as you continue to accelerate to highway speeds.

If you’re not familiar with CVTs, these transmissions provide gearless “shifting” as power is sent to the wheels. Automakers love them because they’re typically at least 10 percent more efficient than gear-stepped transmissions. Auto enthusiasts detest them and avoid them like the plague. But then there is that overwhelming group of drivers who don’t know the difference or don’t care. So, turn up the audio system and keep driving.

To sum up, the HR-V is another winner for Honda, a model that outclasses the competition and makes the oldest model in the segment, the quirky Nissan Juke, seen really old. That makes for a difference, one that should help Honda maintain some space between it and Nissan for the fifth sales spot in the US market. At least for another year and maybe for as long as the crossover infatuation remains.

2016 Honda HR-V AWD

Sticker price from $25,840
Price as tested: $26,720
Seats 5 occupants
1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
141 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
127 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,300 RPM
3.19 inches bore by 3.44 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.6-to-1
Continuously variable automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 102.8 inches
Length: 169.1 inches
Width: 63.2 inches
Height: 74.1 inches
Passenger volume: 96.1 cubic feet
Storage volume: 23.2/55.9 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,109 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Small overlap front & side: acceptable; moderate overlap front, roof strength, and head restraints & seats: good
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Celaya, Guanajuato Mexico

True Minivan: 2016 Ram Promaster City Wagon

November 24, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

2016 Ram Promaster City

Think “minivan” and the Dodge Grand Caravan and Toyota Sienna are a few of the models that may come to mind. Before the advent of the crossover sport utility vehicle, these small vans served as the primary people movers for more than two decades, stepping in where station wagons left off.

But an odd thing has happened over the years — even as the minivan segment has shrunk, the vehicles represented by them have grown larger and heavier. Thus, models such as the Nissan Quest, Honda Odyssey, Kia Sedona, and the Chrysler Town & Country are more “midi” than they are mini. Tipping the scales at around 4,500 pounds, today’s family vans are among the heaviest vehicles on the market.

The pendulum may be swinging back to smaller vans or at least may be better represented by an emerging category of true minivans. Both Ford and Fiat Chrysler produce such models, vehicles built in Turkey and sent to the United States for upfitting. The Ford Transit Connect and the Ram Promaster City are both available in cargo and wagon versions. Furthermore, Nissan has its NV200 cargo van (also sold as the Chevrolet City Express); the passenger version is sold only for taxi fleets.

2016 Ram Promaster City

Sales in the small commercial/passenger van segment are nearly nominal, but are growing, averaging more than 7,000 units sold monthly through September 2015, according to GoodCarBadCar.net. That number includes the Ram Cargo Van, a model based on Fiat Chrysler’s traditional minivan models. Sales in this category are up a robust 35.1 percent over last year — the segment is one of the fastest growing in the industry. Whoever said that vans are dead?

This past week I received a 2016 Ram Promaster City Wagon to put through the paces. This model is based on the Fiat Doblo, a panel van or wagon introduced in 2000. The second-generation model was released in 2009 — the Ram Promaster City is based on that vehicle and arrived in North America for the 2015 model year.

Last year, I had the cargo version in my fleet, not expecting a wagon variant to follow. The two models are nearly identical with sliding doors on the sides and 60-40 fold out doors at the rear (an ideal layout for the driver to peer out the back). The difference between cargo and passenger models goes a bit further — where sheet metal covers the second set of rear side windows in the van, they’re exposed in the wagon. Moreover, a 60-40 split folding and tumbling second-row bench seat is added, increasing the standard occupant capacity from two to five.

2016 Ram Promaster City

The model at hand is marked by a long, sloping hood with wrap around headlamps, a horizontal upper grille opening, and a larger lower grille or air intake. Embrasures on both sides of the lower grille house the fog lamps.

The Promaster City has slab sides with a long roof that begins to slope after the C pillars, a rising belt line, character lines and trim molding. Vertical handles pivot open the front doors as you find in most any vehicle. Pull the vertical handles on the rear doors and they slide open and move on tracks to the rear of the vehicle. The very last side window panels of the van are covered in sheet metal — unlike the Fiat Doblo and the Ford Transit Connect where they are exposed. Then again, both competing models offer a third-row seat — the rear of the van offers excellent storage room.

To the rear of the Promaster City are pivoting doors augmented by oversized vertical combination lamps. The doors open at a 90-degree angle, then pivots to 180 degrees when the hinge latches are released. This is an ideal design, what enables ease of loading.

2016 Ram Promaster City

Inside, the cabin seems large on account of the oversized, canted windshield. Trailer type side mirrors with convex lower mirrors make this vehicle seem larger than it is — those mirrors can be hand folded in, as desired.

The instrument panel is composed of a four-analog display — two large dials (tachometer and speedometer) and two smaller dials (oil pressure and fuel gauges) are present. A digital driver’s information center is located underneath the two middle gauges.

Hard plastics are everywhere — across the dashboard, around the center console, and covering the doors. The Promaster City has a utilitarian feel about it — this is no plush minivan. At the same time it offers several interesting attributes, including an open storage recess on the dashboard above the center console and an open storage area above the glove box. That’s where you can place your smartphone and connect it to the USB port in the center console.

Keyless entry, front power windows, a tilt and telescoping steering column, and a basic UConnect telematics system with navigation is present. A tiny 5-inch screen is present and surrounded by switches and knobs to operate the system. Beneath that are driver controls followed by dials and switches to manage climate control.

2016 Ram Promaster City

The 2016 Ram Promaster City Wagon is offered in standard ($24,445) and SLT editions ($25,970). Choose the SLT model and you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted controls, the UConnect system, and manual driver lumbar support. You also have superior quality seat covers up front, and power-heated side mirrors. Pay the extra $1,525 and you’ll have a better equipped, front-wheel drive van/wagon to show for it.

As tested, the total price for the SLT edition came in at $29,255. Such extras as a trailer tow group ($435), rear wiper group ($235), a rear backup camera ($565), and a lights (fog lamps) and wheels (aluminum) package ($495), and the UConnect GPS system ($860) were also added. Opt for the camera to help navigate the blind spots.

Beneath the climate control dials are the USB and auxiliary input ports. A small change compartment is also present. The transmission stick follows — you can operate it in automatic or manual mode.

Splitting the front seats is an open storage area not nearly large enough to house your smartphone — or at least keep it in place as you drive around. Cup holders at the front and rear of the compartment are separated by a pair of 12-volt outlets and yet another storage area for change. The rear cup holder seems easier to access for rear seating passengers, although the driver’s movable armrest may get in the way.

All four passenger doors have storage pockets and come with drink holders. But the storage I like best is the overhead compartment that is fixed above the dashboard and runs from side to side. Just like the compartments found in commercial vans, it can hold stacks of files. To keep everything from plunging down upon you while you’re driving, a net is also in place. Reading lamps and oversized visors are also present, the latter with a pull out feature to block sunlight.

2016 Ram Promaster City

The best feature of the 60-40 split folding rear seat is that they fold and tumble forward. You already have about four feet of cargo room behind the rear seat. When folded, that space expands to nearly six feet. Other than that the rear seats are stiff and lack padding — something your kids probably won’t mind, but something adults may decide isn’t for them, particularly on long trips. The front seats, by the way are only fairly comfortable too — they don’t nail the snugness quotient and may not provide soothing support for long trips.

But for the family that wants a combination of people and an enclosed cargo hauler, the Promaster City wagon does have an appeal. Those rear covered windows mean you can haul items in secret — the rear privacy glass aids in that endeavor. Stack your boxes, arrange your suitcases or bring along your camping gear with no worries. Additional and oversized storage compartments embedded in the sides of the interior along with four tie down rings and a 12-volt outlet are also present.

Under the hood of all Promaster City models is a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine making 178 horsepower. It is a motor common to numerous Fiat Chrysler products, including the Dodge Dart, Fiat 500L, Chrysler 200, and the Jeep Compass, just to name a few. It comes paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, supplied by ZF.

Power is routed to the front wheels and this van/wagon moves forward at a steady clip. There is nothing to wow anyone here, but happily a previous issue with this transmission is no longer present as it shifts through all forward gears without drama. It may take a high rate of speed to finally hit ninth gear, but there is none of the gear hunting found in earlier FCA products equipped with this transmission.

2016 Ram Promaster City

Steering is firm and precise, and you can make tight turns with ease. The ride is comfortable, braking is firm and not once did I feel that the Promaster City was top heavy. Certainly, you won’t look for this model to provide optimum handling on the twisty roads. At the same time the powertrain is up to the task — a 1,883-pound payload and 2,000-pound towing capacity are welcome attributes for this diminutive cargo-cum-people mover.

To sum up, if you’re looking for an affordable people mover with excellent cargo carrying capacity, the Ram Promaster City may be worth a look. At the same time, for nearly an identical price as the small van’s near $30,000 cost, you can find a well-equipped and larger Dodge Grand Caravan with additional convenience features. Furthermore, with the appropriate seats folded flat, the Grand Caravan also offers generous interior storage room along with a more comfortable passenger compartment. On the other hand, the Promaster City’s smaller overall footprint and a 4 mpg edge are two of the most notable reasons for considering the shorter model.

2016 Ram Promaster City Wagon SLT

Sticker price from $25,655
Price as tested: $29,225
Seats 5 occupants
2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
178 horsepower @ 6,400 RPM
174 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,800 RPM
3.46 inches bore by 3.82 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
9-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 122.4 inches
Length: 187.5 inches
Width: 72.1 inches
Height: 74.1 inches
Passenger volume: 131.7 cubic feet (cargo van)
Storage volume: 64.3 cubic feet (cargo van)
Towing capacity: 2,000 pounds
EPA: 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 16 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,512 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Not rated
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Bursa, Turkey

8 Car Rental Tips for the Holiday Season

November 23, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

Tens of millions of Americans will take to the road this holiday season, traveling to visit family and friends for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. While many will depend on personal transportation, flying, or mass transit services, others will be in the market to rent a car. The car rental maze can be difficult to navigate no matter the time of the year. Therefore, when it comes to renting a car during high volume seasons, you should keep the following tips in mind.

Dodge Charger

1. Understand what you want. Define the type of car you want to rent. If you’re looking for a compact sedan or a large utility vehicle, the prices for each type of vehicle will vary sharply. And if you’re looking to save money, choose the smallest and the least cost efficient model of all. A sports car rental may seem ideal, but it can bust your budget.

2. Book your car rental as soon as possible. The longer you wait to book a car rental, the less likely you will find a great deal. Moreover, the inventory of available cars will shrink considerably as you approach your rental period. As soon as you know your plans, begin your search.

3. Visit the gigantic travel sites. There are multiple travel sites online, each of which offers deals on car rentals. A site such as Kayak.com may provide everything you need as it pulls information from other sites, including Hotwire, Priceline, Expedia, and Travelocity. You might also search each site individually as well as add Alamo.com, Orbitz.com, and RentalCars.com to your search. Also consider the “no name” or generic rental car companies — Hertz may be the name you know best, but Advantage or Fox Rent a Car may offer the better deals.

Nissan Versa Note

4. Avoid costly airport rentals. You may live near an airport and find multiple car rental companies on site. But convenience has its cost — you’ll pay as much as 20 percent more to rent a car located on airport property. Instead, shop for a car locally and pocket the savings.

5. Ask for available discounts. Discounts on car rentals are available, but you need to ask for them. If you are a AAA or AARP member, discounts should be attainable. You might also qualify for a reduced price if you are a military member or a veteran. Typically, discounts are given over the phone or by visiting the car rental company’s website directly.

6. Opt for a longer-term rental. Do you say that you only need a car for five days? You may actually pay more for your car rental than the person who rents a vehicle for a week. Car rental companies often offer excellent deals for customers when renting by the week, then when renting by the day. If you choose the longer rental, you can return the car earlier and still reap the savings.

Infiniti QX70

7. Understand your total costs. Rental car companies will often dangle low rates to entice consumers. On closer inspection, you may discover a host of fees, including collision damage waiver and property-theft coverage. If you own a car and have collision insurance, then that coverage probably includes a rental car — contact your insurance agent to confirm the same. Holders of the American Express card are automatically covered for collision insurance as well as some Visa and MasterCard customers. Be certain to inspect the car before you drive off — even the smallest dent or scratch could be ascribed to you if you fail to identify the same before you leave.

8. Avoid these costs. Rental car companies typically provide a full tank of gas when you take possession of the car. Always top the tank before returning the vehicle, otherwise you might be charged two to three times the cost of fueling if the rental car company does this for you. Further, you should know that you’re responsible for tolls, parking fees, and other costs when driving. Some companies charge a daily rate for a toll transponder on top of the fees you’ll pay for using the tolled roads.

Special Considerations for One-Day Rentals

What if you need a rental car for only one day? What is the best way to obtain such a vehicle without getting hosed?

A company such as Zipcar may be the best deal for you. Instead of paying for the day, you pay by the hour — typically from $7.50 per hour or up to $69 per day. So, if you’re driving to grandma’s house and she lives 50 miles away, you may be gone for six hours and end up paying about $45. That cost includes gas, insurance, and up to 180 miles of driving.

Another option for people who are staying within a metropolitan area, but still need transportation to get them back and forth is to use a service such as Lyft or Uber. Both ride-sharing services offer rates cheaper than taxi service and door-to-door delivery.

Ford Escape Receives Significant Mid Cycle Boost

November 20, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

The Ford Escape arrived on the market in 2001 and has undergone regular updates since then. The current generation model was released in 2013, giving Ford an even stronger entry in the compact crossover SUV segment.

Ford Escape

At the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, Ford unveiled a significant refresh for the Escape to coincide with the 2017 model year, the fifth year of the current generation. The new model gains additional driver-assist technologies, an available SYNC 3 interface, new front fascia, and two new engines with automatic start-stop.

Ford is now selling more than 300,000 Escapes annually in North America. Notably, since its launch more than 3 million have been sold in the United States alone. The Honda CR-V is the segment leader, but Ford is making inroads. Other competitors in this segment include the Hyundai Tucson, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Kia Sportage, and the Volkswagen Tiguan.

New Driver-Assist Technologies

Ford says that the refreshed Escape will be the first Ford vehicle in the world with available SYNC® Connect, a system that allows users to unlock doors, check the fuel level and even detect where they parked their SUV.

Driver-assisted technologies continue to grow in importance as well as in demand. The 2017 Ford Escape will offer adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with brake support. The system operates by way of sensors that recognize when another vehicle is just ahead and adjusts the Escape’s speed accordingly.

A driver alert system will come in handy and work in tandem with a lane-keeping system. Driver alert detects when the driver may be fatigued as by the number of times the lane keep assist system must move the SUV back into its lane. A warning notice in the instrument cluster will alert the driver; at the same time the steering system will mitigate lane crossing due to drifting.

Ford has also been rolling out its various parking assist technologies since last year. The Escape will offer “enhanced active park assist,” what provides steering assistance for both parallel and perpendicular parking. The assist is especially handy to help maneuver the SUV in tight spaces on city streets. This feature is especially beneficial for people who have had surgery and may no longer able to shift the wheel sharply to either side.

The new technologies add to a number of other driver-assist features currently available with the Ford Escape. A blind spot information system with cross traffic alert, hill-start assist, automatic high-beam control, and a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate are also available.

Two New Engine Choices

The base engine choice for the 2017 Ford Escape is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder motor and is the standard engine for the Escape S. Two new EcoBoost engines with turbocharger technology will also be available. A turbocharged 1.5-liter, four-cylinder making an estimated 180 horsepower and 185 foot-pounds of torque. This engine will replace the current 1.6-liter turbocharged four.

A 2.0-liter, twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine will deliver optimum power for the Escape. For says that it will make 245 horsepower and 275 foot-pounds of torque; this engine is also found in the midsize Edge SUV. All three engines will come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2017 Ford Escape

The 2017 Ford Escape will be offered in S, SE, and Titanium trim levels. A new sport appearance package will be available with the SE and Titanium. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available.

The Ford Escape will continue to serve as the brand’s entry-level SUV even as competitors bring even smaller models to the market, including the Chevrolet Trax, Honda CR-V, and the Jeep Renegade. When Toyota introduces a production Scion C-HR next year, Ford will be the only major manufacturer without such a model. Here’s betting that such a model will eventually find its way to Ford and slot beneath the hot-selling Escape.

See Also — Updated SUV: 2017 Ford Escape

Photos copyright the Ford Motor Company.

Fiata: 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Debuts

November 19, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

A spider of another kind.

No doubt, Fiat’s North American product line is lacking a signature model, especially one that could elevate this Italian brand’s position in the market. The 500 and 500L have fallen far short of expectations, while the 500X is showing much promise.

Still, aside from a few Abarth models, the fun factor is absent from a brand that desperately needs such a competitive edge.

Beginning next year, Fiat will finally get the niche model it needs. It’ll come in the form of the Fiat 124 Spider, a model initially rolled out a half century ago. However, the latest iteration moves past its Fiat roots and comes courtesy of Mazda. Indeed, the 124 Spider is based on the architecture supporting the Mazda MX-5 Miata, while advancing its own design. Thus, enthusiasts have dubbed the new model the Fiata in recognition of this unique industry partnership.

Los Angeles Debut

The 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show provided a fitting venue for this rear-wheel drive model’s release. Californians have a thing for roadsters, and if there is a particular market that can give this brand the necessary impetus to move forward, the Golden State is certainly it.

Although the 124 Spider shares its architecture with the MX-5 Miata, there are a number of components and features unique to this vehicle. For one, the roadster will be powered by a 1.4-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, making 160 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of twist. This “Tiger Shark” engine is familiar to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) fans and should find a welcome home under the hood of the 124 Spider. It comes paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The style is all Fiat or at least it is heavily influenced by the company. The front fascia is marked by a broad grille with a wide upper portion and a narrow lower air intake. Distinct wraparound headlamps are accented by circular LED daytime running lights. The lower grille is hemmed in by parking and fog lights set within beautifully sculpted embrasures.

Fiat 124 Spider.

Beautifully Crafted Exterior

From stem to stern, this model flows naturally. Petite, but muscular shoulders, upper and lower profile character lines, and rocker panel embellishments are also present. Fashionable 12-spoke aluminum alloy wheels help draw attention to this vehicle. At the rear is a broad deck, marked by oversized combination lights, body sculpting, and dual exhaust tips. An easy opening soft top convertible roof rounds out the visage.

Inside, this model comes with its share of creature comforts, including keyless entry and push button start, a FIAT Connect telematics system with a 7-inch display, multimedia control, Bluetooth connectivity, and heated seats. Upgrades include a 9-speaker Bose audio system.

A double-wishbone suspension system up front and a multi-link layout in the rear are present. The latter is tuned to provide superior stability while braking as well as turning. An electric power assist or dual pinion steering system is also present. To mitigate noise, an acoustic windshield and insulation treatments have been employed to enhance the driving experience.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider.

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Editions

When the 124 Spider arrives in Fiat studios in summer 2016, it will initially be offered as a limited-edition Prima Edizione Lusso model garbed in Azzurro Italia (Blue) exterior paint along with premium leather seats in a saddle hue. After that, two trim levels will be available — Classica and Lusso. Each one will offer six color choices. In addition, the Lusso or luxury model will offer a tricot crystal white pearl color as an upgrade.

The Fiat 124 Spider represents the second time this year a Mazda model has been transformed to supply a vehicle to a competing manufacturer. In September, the Scion iA rolled out, a subcompact sedan built for Toyota and based on the Mazda 2.

For Mazda, these partnerships are beneficial as the company reaps financial support while maintaining its independence. It also allows the company to spread its costs across more model lines and use those savings to fund new models, including an expected rotary-powered sports car.

Big Thrift: 2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

November 18, 2015 by admin 5 Comments

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

Is it possible to pay too much for a new car? Absolutely. And with the average selling price of a new vehicle coming in around $32,500, there’s a good chance that a significant number of consumers must realign their expectations or forego a new car entirely.

Happily, Hyundai seems to provide more solid footing for consumers who want new and don’t relish settling for a car without the content features they desire. A 2016 Hyundai Elantra Value edition was a recent weekly visitor, a well-equipped sedan priced from $20,700.

The Value edition is all-new for 2016 and includes an automatic $1,000 discount for choosing this model. Thus, the base price of the Elantra Value is actually $19,700. With various added features, such as a cargo package, an automatic dimming rear mirror, a rear wing spoiler, and an upgraded audio system, the final price for the model as tested was $22,390.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

For 2016, the Hyundai Elantra sedan offers SE, Value, Sport and Limited editions. Hyundai no longer makes an Elantra coupe — it was discontinued after 2014. An Elantra GT model is marketed separately, representing a five-door hatchback.

All models, except the Sport edition are powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine making 145 horsepower and 130 foot-pounds of torque. The Sport edition is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine making 173 horsepower and 154 foot-pounds of torque. The SE and Sport editions come equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission; a 6-speed automatic is available. Value and Limited editions offer the automatic only.

Now back to the model at hand. The Elantra Value comes well-equipped and goes beyond the expected upgrades such as the automatic transmission, power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, and the rear view camera you expect to find in most any Elantra model these days. Specifically, the Elantra Value adds a proximity key with push button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, side mirror turn signal indicators, and a power tilt and slide sunroof. Aluminum touches to the front entrance sills and chrome beltline molding are included as well.

The add-ons are some of the features offered in the Limited edition, but not all. But with everything else as part of the package, the value proposition is certainly clear.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

The Hyundai Elantra is now in its fifth generation and 2016 is the last model year before a new generation model emerges. The Elantra shares the same swoopy style of other Hyundai models.

From the front, this model has a narrow and small upper grille opening with a much larger lower grille opening present. Striking, wraparound headlights with distinctive LED daytime running light accents are also found. Large embrasures for housing the fog lights are present as well.

From stem to stern, the Hyundai Elantra is marked by distinctive body sculpting across the hood and along the sides. A rising belt line, a sweeping and sloping roof line, and a raised rear deck set the tone for this model — a look that appears at once sporty as it is upscale. From the rear are oversized wraparound combination lights along with reflectors. The tail pipe is hidden underneath the rear bumper — you may have to get on your knees to find it.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

Inside, cloth seats are standard. You get manually operated bucket seats up front and a 60-40 split folding bench seat to the rear. Hyundai makes use of soft touch and harder-to-the-touch materials across the dashboard and on top of the doors. Brightwork trim accents provide the necessary pop. All four doors come with storage pockets and bottle holders. Two cup holders are found between the front seats; two more cup holders drop down in the middle rear seat position.

The instrument panel is marked by a pair of analog displays — tachometer and speedometer — found in separate cowls. In the middle of it all is a digital driver’s information center. The center console has a tiny 4.3-inch color display surrounded by switches for the radio, media, phone, and audio control. At least it offers a SiriusXM interface. But it doesn’t include navigation.

Knobs and switches for the climate control system are below the color display as are a pair of heated seat controls with low and high settings. Beneath that is a covered compartment large enough to hold your smartphone. A 12-volt outlet, an auxiliary input port and a USB/iPod port are also present. A second 12-volt outlet is found to the right of the console. The transmission shifter, cup holders, and a deep storage compartment/arm rest are also present.

Hyundai has sensibly placed the driver controls where you can see and reach for them. On the face of the steering wheel you’re able to adjust the audio system, connect the phone, and manage cruise control. On the driver’s door, all window, door lock, and side mirror controls can be easily managed — the buttons are canted toward the driver.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

The Elantra also has one other feature sure to please — a sunglasses storage compartment located above the rear view mirror. Also present are reading lights and a switch to operate the sun roof. Each visor contains a mirror with illumination supplied by ceiling-mounted lights. The visors lack something everyone should have — either the ability to extend further out to block the sun or come with an extender to accomplish the same. On several mornings I found this important feature sorely lacking!

The front seats are supportive and comfortable — aligning with other cars I have tested in this class. The rear seat offers room for three with acceptable legroom, unless you have the misfortune of sitting behind the driver. Three adults can sit in the back in a pinch, but having the fold down arm rest/cup holder available will make your passengers happier if only two people are present.

Providing access to the trunk gives this sedan an extra bit of storage room on top of the near 15 cubic feet it offers. Lift the cover for the trunk’s floor and you’ll find an available compartmentalized storage area, always a welcome feature when looking for an area to hold certain items out of sight.

What you don’t get is a proper spare tire. In fact, there is no spare tire available at all. Instead, you get one of those inflation kits that may or may not help you, depending on the damage done to your tire. Here, I always recommend consumers invest in a full spare tire along with the jack and tools to install it. That’s at least $500 out of your pocket you probably weren’t planning to spend.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

The Hyundai Elantra represents a value investment, Value edition or not. This model goes up against the likes of the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Jetta, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Dodge Dart, and the Kia Forte. Few of these models offer stand out performance — instead, the Elantra and its company offer solid and practical transportation between points. If you’re looking for a more fun-to-drive Elantra, then the Elantra Sport or Elantra GT may suffice. The Elantra GT brings in a driver selectable steering mode for enhanced handling; also consider the similar Hyundai Veloster if you prefer a performance edge.

On the road, the Elantra moves up to highway speeds with ease. You can zip down the highway entrance ramp and merge with traffic without worrying about that 18-wheeler bearing down on you. Importantly, passing power is sufficient too. The transmission shifted seamlessly between all six forward gears; the engine strained only when operating at full throttle. Handling is composed, not especially involved, but far from the numbness older compacts were known for. Braking is firm with average brake fade noted.

If you’re looking for an affordable people mover with some substance, the Elantra is worth considering. No, you won’t find yourself gleefully taking on the twisty roads with this front-wheel drive sedan, but you’re just as likely not to find yourself disappointed with your purchase decision. And with Hyundai offering the best warranties in the business along with five years of roadside assistance, you’re covered in the event something does go wrong.

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

Sticker price from $19,700
Price as tested: $22,390
Seats 5 occupants
1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
145 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
130 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,700 RPM
3.19 inches bore by 3.43 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.3-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 106.3 inches
Length: 179.1 inches
Width: 69.9 inches
Height: 56.3 inches
Passenger volume: 95.6 cubic feet
Storage volume: 14.8 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 28 mpg city, 38 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 14.8 gallons
Curb weight: From 2,818 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick
Limited (new) vehicle warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 7 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Ulsan, Korea

First Look: 2016 Lexus RX 350

November 17, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

Lexus has introduced to the world an all-new RX series, the latest rendition of its popular two-row, midsize SUV. The new model, available in gasoline and gasoline-electric hybrid configurations, follows other Lexus vehicles by adopting a more masculine visage. Its all part of a plan to demonstrate a more assertive side to Lexus, a brand that battles BMW and Mercedes-Benz for US luxury preeminence.

I had the opportunity to drive the 2016 Lexus RX series at a media event earlier this month. The event, held in my town, allowed me to operate the RX on roads entirely familiar to me. That fact proved beneficial as I was less concerned about the route and better positioned to concentrate on the vehicle at hand.

Let’s take a look at model background information first.

The Lexus RX series was introduced in 1999. Essentially, Lexus created a segment of small, luxury crossover utility vehicles, one that its competitors had yet to exploit. The first-generation RX 300 (powered by a 3.0-liter, V-6 engine) ran from 1999-2003. It was the smallest of the lot and is about equal in size to the current Lexus NX.

The second-generation RX 330 (3.3-liter, V-6 engine) was built from 2004-2009, but was renamed the RX 350 in 2007 as it gained a 3.5-liter, V-6 engine.

Along the way, Lexus rolled out an RX Hybrid model, dubbed the Lexus RX 400h in 2006. It is powered by a 3.3-liter, V-6 engine and comes paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, a pair of electric motors, and a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. In 2010 the RX 450h debuted (no 2009 model was built) and it maintained its same drivetrain layout, except it gained the 3.5-liter, V-6 engine.

The third-generation RX 350 was produced from 2010 to 2015. It maintained much of the footprint of the previous model. In 2013, the RX 350 F Sport was released, a sporty all-wheel-drive only model with fancy trim, an 8-speed automatic transmission along with sporty dampers and springs.

For 2016, what gradually has become old is new again. Or, in this case, the 2013 refresh that brought forth the F Sport and the spindle (hourglass) design has adopted its most aggressive expression yet.

Indeed, the look is a polarizing one too, one that may have some of the 100,000 plus annual buyers reconsidering. At the same time, Lexus hopes that the more assertive look attracts more male buyers. After all, us guys are usually not attracted to crossovers even if our wives ultimately influence the vehicles we purchase. I’m guessing the design change will be a wash with Lexus tilting ownership more toward the male side of the consumer paradigm.

The new RX comes in slightly longer and heavier than the outgoing model. A few extra inches between the wheels translates into more room for rear seating passengers. That’s important, but it had to be done carefully — Lexus told us that the RX fan base is open to change, but not so much that the crossover’s footprint is radically changed.

I must admit I shared photos of the 2016 edition on social media to gauge reactions. Notably, of the handful of responses, most were shocked by the changes and not necessarily so in a positive way. Lexus is taking some risk with the look as it employs a level of body sculpting not seen in this segment before.

The front fascia now features a more dominant hourglass grille surrounded by deep creases and sculpting top and bottom. The arrow-shaped LED lights return and are set within strikingly flared wraparound headlights. Deep pockets offset the lower end of the grille and contain the fog lamps. Arrow accents are present there as well. From the top of the grille and across the hood is additional sculpting — as if someone took a carving knife and ran it to the top of the hood.

Along the sides, the carving continues and is joined by multiple character lines, giving this model a busy look. For 2016, a floating roof design has been added, providing yet another sporting attribute. At the rear, stylish oversized combination lamps dominate, but look closely and you’ll also see the spindle outline running from the liftgate down to the base of the bumper. At the base of the bumper is a diffuser-like design with a pair of exhaust ports present.

(See Also — F Sport Fun: 2018 Lexus GS 350)

Inside, the drama continues. Besides the larger cabin — what Lexus claims provides a rear room compartment rivaling its large LS sedan in openness — the big changes include the various ornamental trims available: walnut, bamboo, mocha or sapele wood, along with aluminum accents. The dashboard has its own share of curves and levels, bringing the exterior look inside.

The rearranged center console is more driver-oriented, with switch (lever) usability a big factor in the new design. Cup holder and storage accessibility have also been improved. Also of note, the available heads-up display has been moved to the instrument panel in a bid to aid in driver concentration. Each of these changes was accomplished by keeping driver distractibility in mind.

When it comes to powertrain changes, Lexus typically opts for the evolutionary, rather than the revolutionary. A 3.5-liter, V-6 engine is present, but it is the next generation of an engine found in other Lexus models as well as in the Toyota Tacoma.

Making use of the Atkinson-cycle as well as the Otto-cycle, the revised engine now makes 295 horsepower and 267 foot-pounds of torque. Reshaped intake ports and combustion chambers, and an all-new fuel injection system make it more efficient, resulting in a net 2 mpg fuel economy gain. The current RX 350 is now EPA-rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The hybrid’s net fuel economy stays constant — this model is EPA-rated at 31 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

One of the more significant changes may seem like a bit of an oddity too. For 2016, a Lexus 450h F Sport edition debuts, bringing many of the badging and design changes found in the RX 350 F Sport to this model line. It seems like an odd combination and with hybrid sales in the tank, you may wonder if Lexus is attempting to garner a few extra sales. That seems likely, although such a model with paddle shifters at the ready also seems a bit silly too.

As for the drive, the RX 350 performs as expected — its look screams sportiness, but you’re still driving a crossover SUV. Off the mark acceleration is admirable and this vehicle has no problem passing on the highway. Take it on twisty roads and you’ll encounter a certain amount of body roll — all-wheel drive and especially the F Sport do a much better job of mitigating the problem. Choose the available Sport S+ mode and you’ll enjoy the ultimate in performance and handling this model offers. No, this isn’t a Range Rover or a Porsche competitor — it doesn’t try to be. What it does do is inject at least a modicum of feedback that might convince a few fence straddlers to make the jump over the “let’s buy it” side of the rail.

As before, the Lexus RX is available in standard and F Sport trim levels. You’ll pay anywhere from about $42,000 on up for the gasoline model and about $10,000 more for the hybrid, a cost premium that only eco-serious buyers might consider.

Otherwise, stick with the standard model, choose all-wheel drive, and if trim embellishments and handling improvements are your things, then only the F Sport can help assuage that yearning.

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Archives for November 2015

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro

Leather and Aluminum Interior

Multi Media Interface (MMI)

On the Road

The Chief Competitors

2016 Audi Q3 2.0T Quattro

Here Comes Winter

Best of the Worst

Photo Credits

2016 Honda HR-V AWD

2016 Ram Promaster City Wagon SLT

Special Considerations for One-Day Rentals

New Driver-Assist Technologies

Two New Engine Choices

The 2017 Ford Escape

Los Angeles Debut

Beautifully Crafted Exterior

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Editions

2016 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition

Further Reading