FORD FOCUS

Ford Focus, Fiesta Transmission Troubles Not Over Yet

May 9, 2019 by admin

The Ford Motor Company has received thousands of complaints about the dual-clutch transmissions found in some of its models. Specifically, owners of 2011-2016 Fiesta and 2012-2016 Focus models have complained to Ford about problems, which have caused these cars to operate dangerously or break down. Ford settled one suit earlier for $35 million, but the case may be reopened and expanded significantly, with billions of dollars at stake.

Attorneys representing consumers nationwide are arguing that the DPS6 transmission found in select models is prone to “shuddering, slipping, bucking, jerking, hesitation while changing gears, premature internal wear, delays in downshifting and, in some cases, sudden or delayed acceleration.” You’ll find personal injury and commercial litigation specialists working on behalf of affected owners, although we recommend Ford owners visit the Public Citizen website and search for “Vargas v. Ford Motor Company” for details about the legal action.

Legal Action on Behalf of Affected Owners

So, who is affected by the lawsuit and what might the result be if the outcome favors the plaintiffs?

1. Nearly two million owners. The lawsuit filed by Public Citizen covers 1.9 million Fiesta and Focus owners whose cars were equipped with the affected six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Not included are thousands of drivers who chose a manual transmission or who cars were built in the 2017 model year or later. That latter group of owners aren’t covered, at least not yet.

2. Thousands of dollars are at stake. Public Citizen isn’t the only one representing affected Ford owners. Attorneys familiar with California’s Lemon Law have filed claims. They’ve also filed Auto Fraud claims and are seeking to reimburse consumers for their losses. If consumers prevail, Ford may be required to buy back the vehicles, pay for repairs, or cover related costs. Thousands of dollars in settlement money for each owner is at stake. Reports indicate that Ford’s payout may top $4 billion.

Your Affected Ford Vehicle

If you are the current owner of an affected Fiesta or Focus vehicle, the following are among the problems you may encounter with them:

1. Clunking or chattering noises while shifting.

2. Vehicle rolls back on a hill while stopped.

3. Delay while shifting.

4. Shuddering or vibration while automatically shifting between gears.

5. Delayed response when accelerating.

6. Transmission gear hunting.

7. A sharp rise or fall in engine RPM when shifting.

California Lemon Law

California has one of the toughest lemon law statutes in the nation. The state “requires a vehicle manufacturer that is unable to repair a vehicle to conform to the manufacturer’s express warranty after a reasonable number of repair attempts to
replace or repurchase the vehicle.”

The state does not set the number on “reasonable repair attempts.” However, there are guidelines for determining when a “reasonable number” of repairs have been made. California’s law covers all cars, pickup trucks, vans, and utility vehicle. Also covered are the chassis, chassis cab, and drivetrain of a motorhome.

The California law extends to dealer-owned vehicles, demonstrators, vehicles purchased or leased for business use as well as for personal use. It is a wide blanket that covers vehicles throughout that model’s original warranty period.

Lemon Laws by State

All 50 states have lemon laws, but there are some differences in what these laws state For instance, in some states just one or two repair visits may result in state action.

You can where you stand by visiting the Center for Auto Safety website and clicking the Lemon Law Library tab. There, you’ll find out information about the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and federal emissions warranties. The site also offers details about secret warranties, small claim courts, and the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System.

These Car Models May Soon Get the Axe

November 7, 2018 by admin 1 Comment

Sharply declining sales may spell the end for several car models.

The U.S. automotive market, indeed the entire global market has seen a shift away from cars to utility vehicles. Cars, while valued for their practicality and reasonable cost are yielding the market to utility vehicles, which offer an excellent combination of passenger space and cargo capacity. They’re also more profitable to automakers.

As such, manufacturers will soon lay the ax to several car models as the market shift continues. Soon, you may walk into a new car dealership and find no more than one or two car models available as utility vehicles, pickup trucks and an assortment of crossover-like conveyances take over.

Here’s our list of threatened models based on year-to-date sales figures through October 2018:

Chevrolet: Sonic and Impala

The bow-tie brand’s weakest models are its subcompact Sonic (hatchback and sedan) and its full-size Impala sedan. The two models were introduced or updated in 2012 and 2014, respectively.

Chevrolet Silverado — Like its top competitor’s Chevrolet’s best-selling vehicle is not a car.

Sonic sales are down 25.7 percent and will struggle to top 22,000 units this year. The Impala numbers aren’t as bad with Chevrolet selling 43,953 units, down 13.38 percent. We think the midsize Malibu sedan (-23.88%) will hang on for a while longer, mostly because it is rather new. The compact Cruze (-26.52%) numbers are way down too, but there is life left. Besides, it shares its platform with the plug-in Volt (-13.72%).

As for the Corvette (-21.23%) and Camaro (-25.87%), both models will soldier on with a mid-engined Corvette waiting in the wings. We can’t see Chevrolet killing the Camaro all over again, although sales now trail both the Mustang and Challenger.

Dodge and Chrysler: A Vulnerable Trio

Dodge and Chrysler are FCA’s two domestic car brands and both are hanging on. Dodge dropped the compact Dart sedan and Chrysler the midsize 200 sedans in recent years. What’s left is a trio of sporty models: The Dodge Challenger (+0.07%), Dodge Charger (-11.98%), and the Chrysler 300 (-12.83%).

Dodge Charger Hellcat — A succession of Hellcat models has kept the Charger and Challenger alive. But for how long?

The Chrysler is the most vulnerable of the three and will likely be replaced by a utility vehicle. We think Dodge will hang on to the Challenger and Charger for a few more years, making updates to keep these dated models fresh. But the tide is changing and we could see the Charger killed off first with the Challenger following a few years later. The Jeep and Ram brands are the big profit centers for FCA, thus every other brand is vulnerable.

Ford: Only the Mustang Remains

Ford has not been coy about its car models. Every single model except for the Mustang (-0.93%) is threatened. Already, the subcompact Fiesta (+1.05%) and compact Focus (-18.46%) are gone or will soon be gone from the U.S. market.

The midsize Fusion (-21.77%) and the full-size Taurus (-2.49%) will be the next to go, although one or more names may be affixed to a future crossover model. Yes, we’ve heard rumors of a four-door Mustang appearing, but all that noise is simply speculation.

2018 Ford Mustang GT — The Mustang “brand” is a blue oval success story.

Honda: Staying the Course

Sales of the compact Civic (-10.32%) and midsize Accord (-14.16%) may be down, but they’re not out. Indeed, Honda may very well sell as many as 250,000 Accords and 300,000 Civics this year. Even if sales continue to slide, both models are safe.

As for the subcompact Fit (-14.59%), sales aren’t likely to top 40,000 units this year. That said, Honda may keep the Fit around and not offer an update for some time. This automaker also seems committed to its Clarity and Insight electrified vehicles, though sales remain modest.

See Also — It’s a Wrap: 2018 in Review

Nissan: Maxima on a Short Leash

Like Honda and Toyota, Nissan will keep its compact Sentra (-0.34%) and midsize Altima (-16.64%) sedans. The Altima is new for 2019 and will offer available all-wheel drive for the first time. Although the Sentra was last updated in 2013, we think a new model will eventually roll out.

Nissan Maxima models — The Maxima is one of Nissan’s strongest names, but it may not have long-term staying power.

What might not survive is the Maxima sedan (-36.18%), although it shares its underpinnings with the Altima. Like other flagship models, the Maxima may no longer have a place in the Nissan product line.

Also threatened is the subcompact Versa (-29.87%), the sporty 370Z (-24.44%) and the high-performance GT-R (-2.49%). The last two will likely sell just 3,000 and 500 copies, respectively. Those aren’t sustainable numbers no matter how you slice it.

Toyota: Several Models Might Get 86’d

Imagine Toyota without the compact Corolla (-11.35%) and its midsize Camry (-6.94%) if you would. That’s hard to fathom, right? Well, both models sell slightly better than their Honda counterparts, so they’ll be around for some time. Indeed, a new Camry arrived in 2018, followed by an all-new Corolla hatchback in 2019 (we’re expecting a new Corolla sedan in 2020).

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback — Toyota’s Corolla is hanging around and includes this sporty hatchback model.

The threatened Toyota models include the subcompact Yaris (-37.05%) and the hybrid Toyota Prius c. We doubt the Toyota 86 (-41.71%) will survive for much longer, although the nearly identical Subaru BRZ may soldier on. As for the full-size Avalon (+6.38%), it is also all new and gaining market share in a shrinking segment. We consider the Avalon the safest model in its segment by far.

Volkswagen: A Passe Passat?

Volkswagen has been undergoing intense changes these past few years following its diesel scandal. New or updated crossovers are taking a bigger slice of the sales pie and are driving sales. But models such as the subcompact Golf (-38.08%), compact Jetta (-32.77%), and the midsize Passat (-33.78%) are falling out of favor.

We think the Golf and Jetta will hang on, but the Tennessee-built Passat may give up its assembly line space to one or more new (and electrified) models planned. That transition may take a few years to complete, however.

Hyundai and Kia: Opportunity Lurks

Hyundai and Kia are joined at the hip, although the two Korean automakers largely operate as separate concerns. Hyundai supplies the vehicle platforms, then leaves each brand (plus Genesis) to decide how they will go.

In recent years, we’ve seen Hyundai do away with the Equus, Genesis, and Genesis coupe, along with the Azera sedan. Some of those models were replaced by Genesis brand vehicles when Hyundai rolled out its luxury brand.

Hyundai has also expanded its crossover offerings while bringing the electrified Ioniq (+37.69) to the market. We’re not sure the subcompact Accent (-51.12%) will survive, given that a new model rolled out in 2018. The compact Elantra (+4.06%) is performing well, but the midsize Sonata (-24.83%) has certainly seen better days. The sporty Veloster returned after a one-year hiatus and like the Elantra, it seems safe. Still, we think Hyundai will keep its car line in place as other automakers cut back.

2018 Kia Rio — Kia Rio sales are down despite a new model on hand.

As for the Kia, nearly the same can be said about it as we have said about Hyundai. Further, Kia continues to update even its slow sellers, such as the full-size Cadenza (-11.07%) and the luxury K900 (-26.14%).

A new subcompact Rio (+44.67) is performing well, although the compact Forte (-18.68%) and the midsize Optima (-5.74%) are not. Still, looking at Kia’s track record, we doubt any model will go away in the near future. In all, we think Hyundai and Kia may see opportunity in segments soon to be vacated by its competitors.

Looking Ahead

The shift to crossovers is, indeed, playing a large part in driving each brand’s portfolio. Two other factors, electrification, and autonomous vehicles, will play increasingly significant roles as we move forward.

The question not asked is this one: will manufacturers permanently adjust their portfolios? They may say yes, but market conditions can and do always change.

Witness Ford’s insistence a few years back that the Ranger pickup truck wouldn’t return. Beginning in 2019 we’ll see a new Ranger. And as for the Fiesta and Focus, both models will serve other markets and could at some point return to the U.S. if demand warrants it.

See Also — End of the Road: Ford Taurus

The Range-Topping 2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

August 1, 2017 by admin 7 Comments

Behind the wheel of Volkswagen’s best-equipped Jetta.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI — The GLI is the top-end of the Volkswagen Jetta’s four-grade range.

The Volkswagen Jetta may “only” come available as a sedan, but what this automaker does to set it apart in a crowded (and shrinking) segment is worth investigating.

Yes, diesels are no longer available, but there are three turbocharged four-cylinder gas engines to consider. My most recent model was a 2017 VW Jetta GLI, powered by a variant of the 2.0-liter engine used by Audi.

What will you find in any of the current-generation Jetta models? For one, it is one of the most spacious sedans in the compact range with a surprisingly roomy interior and an equally large trunk measuring 15.7 cubic feet. The trunk size is larger than some midsize models and comes within 0.2 inches of the larger Passat. You’re forgiven if you ever mistake the Jetta for a midsize sedan — it just seems larger than it is.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen offers the 2017 Jetta in four grades: S ($17,895), SE ($20,895), SEL ($24,995), and GLI ($27,895). The SEL is the only grade with an automatic transmission only, otherwise a 6-speed manual gearbox is standard. The three other grades offer the automatic transmission as a $1,100 price upgrade. Add $820 for the destination fee, which brought my automatic-equipped test model’s final price to $29,815. This means there were no add-ons for this well-equipped model.

Changes for 2017 include discontinuing the hybrid version, making the rearview camera standard across the model line, and accomplishing a small, but very important update to the infotainment system — no more proprietary cable! Instead, you get a much-desired USB port.

Exterior Highlights

Is it possible to confuse Volkswagen models? Yes, indeed. The Jetta and Passat are difficult to tell apart at first glance, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The junior sedan offers a canvas similar to the Passat, with the larger model specifically designed for the US market. This also means the Jetta has lost some of its European flair over the past few years as Volkswagen aligns the models we see in North America for the domestic market.

Happily, the Jetta GLI offers all the accouterments of a well-equipped small sedan, including automatic headlights and LED daytime running lights, heated and power-folding side mirrors, and a GLI grille with red piping. This model also has dual exhaust tips, 18-inch alloy wheels, and red brake calipers.

Interior Highlights

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Few small sedans hold five people, but the Jetta succeeds in that endeavor.

Okay, two in the back is better, but three can do so in a pinch.

The seats come dressed in imitation leather for not a bad representation of the faux kind.

The Jetta’s interior is fairly austere, but efficiently ordered. Some manufacturers add drama, thinking that this particular styling direction adds distinction. Instead, it often adds confusion.

You’ll find the GLI supplies a long list of premium features, including full power accessories, dual-zone climate control, a heated driver’s seat with lumbar support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, metal pedals, front reading lights, and illuminated vanity mirrors.

The illuminated glove box has a much-desired cooling feature, supplying an ideal way to keep drinks chilled while on the road.

On the Road

Other Jetta models offer a 1.4- or 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but only the GLI has one displacing at 2.0 liters. This is important for anyone who places an emphasis on performance as the largest of a trio of forced-induction engines makes 210 horsepower.

The engine is a familiar one in select Volkswagen Group models, including the Audi A3 and A4. The Volkswagen Tiguan and Atlas SUVs also utilize this engine — in each case you’ll find varying levels of tuning, with horsepower ranging from 184 to 252 and torque from 207 to 273 pound-feet. For the GLI, you have a choice of a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Sadly, I had the slush box….

But there is enough kick in the GLI to make this sedan interesting. As is always the case with turbos, off-the-mark acceleration comes in slowly, but takes things up a few notches once the turbos spool. And that happens very quickly, enabling this four-door to sail down the road with authority.

Two hundred horses doesn’t seem like a lot these days, but it is more than sufficient in small cars. The GLI’s straight line acceleration receives high marks, although if you’re on the twisty roads, you need to remind yourself that you’re dealing with front-wheel drive. A 4Motion AWD system would be the icing on the cake, but you’ll have to do without that.

Further, the driving experience doesn’t live up to such models as the Ford Focus and Mazda 3, both offering superior steering and handling. Just keep these points in mind if your expectations are somewhere higher.

Safety and Technology

Perhaps the Jetta’s strongest suit is its safety ratings. Both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Rating gave the 2017 Jetta their highest scores — Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and 5 stars from the NHTSA.

Notably, both awards are quite an accomplishment for a small car, something few models can claim.

All models offer the usual contingent of standard safety features, including traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, active front head restraints, and a suite of six airbags. Move further up the trim line and you’ll find blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and emergency braking. That’s what you’ll find with the GLI.

On the in-cabin tech front, the GLI pulls out all the stops with its Fender audio system, satellite radio, HD Radio, CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, and 6.3-inch color display with navigation. You’ll also find a suite of apps under the Car-Net umbrella. This means you’ll have access to both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — I used the latter liberally the week I had this model.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Parting Thoughts

The GLI brings everything Jetta has to the table, but at a cost that approaches $30,000. That’s a lot to pay for a small car, especially in a segment where well-equipped models cost thousands of dollars less.

Indeed, the Hyundai Elantra Sport equipped with an available premium package approaches the GLI’s performance level and amenities, and sells for $4,000 less. Otherwise, the Jetta SEL with its 1.8-liter turbo making 170 horsepower may be the better choice with a price point of about $26,000.

On the other hand, if you go full-blown Jetta, you’re also approaching Audi A3 pricing territory — whoever said car shopping was an easy decision?

2017 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0T GLI

Sticker price from $28,995
Price as tested: $29,815
Seats 5 occupants
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 gas
210 horsepower @ 5,300 RPM
207 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,700 RPM
6-speed manual or automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 104.4 inches
Length: 182.2 inches
Width: 70 inches
Height: 56.5 inches
Passenger volume: 94.1 cubic feet
Storage volume: 15.7 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 23/24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway
Regular gasoline
Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons (diesel)
Curb weight: From 3,153 to 3,194 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 12 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Puebla, Mexico

2017 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

New Engine, Fresh Interior for 2015 Ford Focus

February 25, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

Mid product cycle updates loom large for compact Focus.

The Ford Focus is an instantly recognizable name, with more than 1 million units sold annually worldwide. Ford has said that the Focus is the best selling vehicle in the world, a claim that Toyota disputes. What is beyond dispute is that Ford is not resting on its laurels as it makes plans to release an important model refresh for 2015.

The 2015 Ford Focus will be released in the second half of this year and will be equipped with a standard rear view monitor and a fully revised interior. It will also offer an optional new engine: a 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine that is currently available with the Fiesta subcompact.

2015 Ford Focus

Ford announced its plans for the 2015 Focus at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on Monday. About the updated model Joe Hinrichs, Ford executive vice president and president of The Americas said, What makes Focus so attractive to consumers today being great to drive, delivering exceptional fuel economy and value, and offering leading-edge in-car technologies is amplified with the new Focus.

The 2015 Ford Focus will arrive with a refreshed face including a restyled grille and hood, distinctive headlamps and tail lights, an updated lamp cluster, and a restyled trunk lid. For the US market, a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback will be offered.

Inside, the Focus will receive new seat trims, satin chrome detailing, new switches, and an available heated steering wheel. Ford describes the compacts glove box as new and easier to access; a new center console brings in adjustable cup holders.

New Safety Features

Technologies that are not common to the compact segment will be available with the 2015 Ford Focus. Besides the standard rear view camera, customers can choose safety options including lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. All models are equipped with a 4.2-inch color monitor; an 8-inch monitor is included with cars equipped with MyFord Touch.

Ford says that the new Focus will allow drivers to download more than five dozen AppLink-enabled apps from the Apple App Store and the Android market. These apps include real-time data such as acceleration, odometer, and speed. When connected with SYNC AppLink, alerts are available at any time even if the app is not currently active. This means if the driver is listening to her favorite tunes, the app can send out an alert such as warning about a traffic jam down the road.

Three-Cylinder EcoBoost Engine

The current Ford Focus is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. That engine returns in 2015 and will be joined by a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed transmission.

The smaller engine also brings in gasoline direct injection, variable valve timing, and Ford software enhancements to squeeze more power out of a smaller footprint. In the 2014 Fiesta, the diminutive engine gives the subcompact a 45 mpg highway rating, the top gas mileage for a non hybrid car. At present, the most fuel efficient Focus is rated at 40 mpg on the highway. The new engine should help the Focus deliver at least 43 to 44 mpg on the highway.

Other changes slated for the 2015 Ford Focus includes suspension and chassis upgrades, including a new shock absorber valve design in a bid to provide a quieter interior, an updated rear suspension to help drivers feel more connected to the road, and a new electronic stability program to improve comfort and to reduce intrusion.

The ambitious Focus overhaul eclipses the generational changes seen in some models. What this signals to the world is that Ford is intent at keeping its top model fresh. And with Ford continuing to push hard in developing countries, the long-term outlook for its compact model line is strong.

Photo courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

The Five Top Selling Compact Cars of 2013

January 8, 2014 by admin 5 Comments

2014 Honda Civic. — A broad model line keeps the Honda Civic on top.

Compact cars are nearly as popular as midsize models, small front-wheel drive models that typically retail for under $20,000. Also known as C-segment models, these vehicles are produced by every full line manufacturer and are typically sold as sedans with hatchbacks usually part of the mix as well.

2013 Compact Cars

Toyota and Honda have routinely battled for segment supremacy and in recent years fresh challenges from Chevrolet, Ford and Hyundai have brought balance to the segment. Beyond the leaders there are a number of other cars to consider including the Nissan Sentra, Dodge Dart, Volkwagen Golf, Mazda3, and the Kia Forte.

1. Honda Civic. Toyota and Honda are position 1-2 in the midsize segment, but those places are reversed where compact cars are concerned. In 2013, Honda sold 336,180 Civics including 7,719 hybrids. Civic sales rose by more than 18,000 units or 5.7 percent for the year. Following a new design in 2012, Honda launched a significant refresh for 2013 to address several design deficiencies, a move that largely silenced its critics and paid off with increased sales.

Toyota Corolla Compact Car.

Fresh styling marks the 2014 Toyota Corolla.

2. Toyota Corolla. If Hondas hold on the compact segment is threatened, it will come from Toyota. For 2014, a new and larger Corolla was introduced, a model that Toyota expects will challenge the Civic for segment leadership. In 2013, Toyota sold 302,180 Corollas, up 3.9 percent for the year. Unlike the Civic sold in sedan, coupe, hybrid and CNG configurations, Toyota is maintaining its sedan-only focus for its compact model. No word whether Toyota will break out of the box and field additional body styles as in days past.

3. Chevrolet Cruze. The big news for Chevrolet in 2013 is that the Cruze outsold its chief nemesis, the Ford Focus. Chevrolet may not have long to celebrate, however, as Focus ST sales are likely to grow. And with no performance sub-model to respond with directly, Chevrolet will have to rely on it newly available diesel option to stoke Cruze sales. For 2013, Chevrolet sold 248,224 Cruzes, up 4.4 percent for the year, edging the Elantra by just 312 cars sold.

Hyundai Elantra GT compact car.

The Hyundai Elantra dressed in GT garb.

4. Hyundai Elantra. The Sonata still garners the lions share of attention for Hyundai, but Elantra outsold the midsize sedan for 2013. Indeed, Elantra sales enjoyed the largest lift among the top sellers, increasing by 23 percent for the year. With 247,912 units sold, the Elantra is within easy striking distance of the Cruze, itself likely to be overtaken by the Ford Focus. Capacity issues may be the only thing to hold back Hyundais surging star in the coming years.

5. Ford Focus. The Ford brand was the top selling automotive brand in the US in 2013, beating Chevrolet and Toyota. Its Focus compact car has been a big contributor in recent years to help elevate the brand, but for 2013 sales fell by 4.6 percent on 234,570 units sold. You can blame part of that loss on the rise of the subcompact Fiesta and its 25.2 year-over-year sales increase. The next generation Focus is expected to roll out in Europe later this year followed by North America in 2015. Incidentally, both the Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla sell more than 1 million units annually around the world.

Looking Ahead

Stiffer competition among compact car manufacturers will provide consumers with new and better choices in the coming years. An all-new Mazda3 hits the market this year and sales of the Nissan Sentra, Dodge Dart, and Kia Forte continue to grow. Volkswagen will continue with its multi-prong Jetta strategy, marketing its sedan and wagon lines separately while emphasizing its diesel option.

First Drive: 2014 Toyota Corolla

September 27, 2013 by admin 15 Comments

Be forewarned: if you have yet to see the all-new Toyota Corolla you may be in for a surprise. Or two. Or more. The Corolla is Toyota’s top-selling model after the Camry, a compact sedan that rolled out stateside in summer 1968. More than 40 million Corollas have been built since the 1960s and the 2014 edition represents the start of its eleventh generation. Importantly, this model loses its “blah” look to take on an attractive and undeniably sporty demeanor.

2014 Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla S has a distinctive grille.

2014 Toyota Corolla

This writer had the opportunity to test drive three of the Corolla’s four trim levels at an event Toyota held in Miami this past week. And now for the disclaimer: Toyota paid for my trip, including air fare, hotel stay, cruise ride and the delicious food. These types of trip have no impact on my findings. Moreover, because my time with the Corolla was far briefer than my customary one week press pool rotation (where I typically put hundreds of miles on a vehicle under a variety of driving conditions before I write up my review), my thoughts here are based on a collective, but brief “first drive” overview.

Yet, the 2014 Toyota Corolla did enough to impress this writer who has long considered this model as an appliance, one with a personality closer to a White Westinghouse refrigerator than to a fun-to-drive car. Its previous bland fascia and utilitarian body lines, however, have rarely hurt its sales, currently numbering approximately 300,000 units annually in the US and more than 1 million yearly worldwide. Toyota expects that the new model will see a 10 percent increase in sales, with 60 percent of that 30,000 unit jump coming from conquest buyers. This for a model whose owners have long prized its durability, reliability and value, with a fourth attribute now added: style.

2014 Toyota Corolla LE

From the side with the Toyota Corolla LE.

Corolla Trim Levels

With barely three hours of drive time allotted and multiple models to choose from, I immediately seized upon a Corolla S in blue crush metallic finish. The Corolla S is the top trim level with L, LE and a new LE Eco rounding out the line. Pricing for the L starts at $16,800, for the LE at $18,300, and for the LE Eco it is fixed at $18,700. The 2014 Toyota Corolla S is priced from $19,000.

That test “S” was also equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. All Corollas are powered by a 1.8-liter four cylinder engine making 132 horsepower. However, the LE Eco brings in valvematic timing to increase horsepower by 8 and to achieve 42 mpg on the highway.

Like all 2014 Corollas, the S edition features a sporty fascia, LED headlights, sculpted body lines, wrap around tail lights and proportions that are longer, wider and taller than its predecessor. This vehicle sits one inch closer to the ground for a sportier look. The S also has a distinctive grille featuring a piano black paint scheme. It also comes equipped with integrated fog lights, a rear spoiler, and a chrome-tipped exhaust.

Inside, the new Corolla is outfitted with what Toyota calls a “fluid” dashboard. That appellation is appropriate as it features an unbroken line that travels from side to side, highlighting the instrument panel, the center console and the passenger area as it moves from left to right. The look is much more high end than what you would usually find in a C segment model, a pleasant improvement over what some manufacturers still offer and what Toyota used to supply.

2014 Toyota Corolla

The new Corolla offers a distinctive rear deck.

Miami Traffic Machine

Perhaps the lone disappointment with the Toyota S was that we were not able to open her up. Miami traffic is a bear and fourth gear was the highest we went save for an all-too-brief visit to fifth gear that was cut short when a traffic light warned us to slow down. The gears shifted smoothly and clutch play was normal. The driver’s seat was comfortable, supportive and bolstered, leading me to believe that a long trip in this car wouldn’t be an exercise in torture. Of special note is the back seat with five more inches of leg room than the previous model. Credit thinner and articulated front seats and the longer wheelbase for providing midsize class leg room in the back.

My second and third trips out with a Corolla involved LE and LE Eco models respectively. Both models are equipped with a continuously variable transmission, what offers an infinite number of engine/wheel speed ratios to work with. It also has a “shift” option where you can step through seven “gears” if you desire. But that wasn’t my desire as I wanted to check on the available sport and braking modes to see how these worked. In sport mode, Toyota employs software tuning that provides a more energetic drive when in use. Its B mode employs engine braking, precisely what you will want to choose when descending that deep mountain pass.

Capable CVT

The overall drive feel of the 2014 Toyota Corolla is not spectacular, but it isn’t a chore either. Handling is steady and feedback is good. You will still feel the impact of most uneven road surfaces, but it isn’t to the degree that you would have found in this car just a few generations back. Braking is confident and at least as good as what I discovered in a recently tested Nissan Sentra.

And speaking of the Sentra, itself outfitted with a CVT, my first impression is that the Corolla was quieter and operated smoother than the Sentra power train, and that’s quite a feat as Toyota does not have quite the leadership and experience that Nissan has in all things CVT.

Toyota Corolla LE Eco

Valvematic technology comes to the Toyota Corolla LE Eco.

Your Buying Considerations

There is more that I would like to have time to discover with the new Corolla, but if my brief drives are a good indicator, then the new model will be well received by current owners and should also attract compact car buyers that appreciate its greatly improved looks. According to Toyota, those buyers will most likely consider the LE Eco and S editions, each expected to account for 40 percent of the Corolla’s sales. And with Toyota lowering the top model price by $60 and adding in about $1,000 of goodies, the best value is with the top two editions. Your only qualm may be having to choose between the 42 mpg capabilities of the LE Eco and the enhanced sporty characteristics of the S.

Look for a more comprehensive review of a specific Corolla model in the coming months.

The Hidden Benefits of Stick Shift Transmissions

April 18, 2013 by Joseph Wright 2 Comments

Jeep Wrangler. — A Jeep is best enjoyed when shifting.

In a driver’s search for improved gas mileage and more value, the hidden benefits of a manual transmission often get overlooked. Through extensive research, automotive technologists and experts have found that a stick shift can improve gas mileage by a notable two to five miles per gallon compared to an automatic transmission. Additionally, opting for a vehicle with a manual transmission can cut a cars price by $800-$1,200.

Stick shifts also improve the vehicle’s speed, sometimes significantly. This added perk comes courtesy of running a smaller engine. And many drivers find cruising in a manual transmission cool and fun, although that depends on the car.

Transmission Testing 1-2-3

Manufacturers have introduced different types of manual transmission-equipped vehicles over the years, subjecting them to strenuous fuel economy and acceleration tests. Their findings were compared to similar automatic-equipped models that were rigorously tested. Results reveal that manual transmissions can deliver better acceleration rates and fuel economy compared to their automatic counterparts.

The Shift That Keeps on Giving

Operating a stick shift is a handy skill to have in situations where you’re a designated driver, emergencies, foreign rentals, and when you’re on a budget. If you’re charged with transporting people who shouldn’t be driving, you may have to drive a friend’s manual. Being adept at operating a stick is valuable in emergency scenarios where time is a critical factor.

Trips outside of the country can demand renting vehicles in places where stick shifts are customary. Automatics often have limited availability and come at significantly higher rental prices. In countries with challenging terrain, knowing how to drive a stick makes for a more enjoyable, stress-free trip. For example, navigating Costa Rica’s hilly roads during that country’s rainy season is far easier in a rented Jeep with a manual transmission.

Getting It in Gear

4WD stick shift Another hidden advantage of manual automobiles is they’re generally less expensive than automatics and maintenance over their lifespans usually runs less. Because fewer people know how to drive them, the demand for and the price of a stick shift is lower. This low demand can provide consumers with negotiating leverage when they’re shopping for a used vehicle. If you’re in the market for a truck or SUV with a stick shift you’ll probably have better luck. Manuals tend to sit on the lot longer, giving buyers a distinct advantage. Try the tactic of telling the salesperson you’d be more than happy to take that stick shift off their hands if they’re willing lower the price. One caveat to this is since relatively few consumers opt for manuals, they could be harder to sell later.

Of course, there are challenges with stick shifts. They’re available in fewer models, minimizing drivers’ choices. Smaller vehicles and sports cars typically feature more options in manual models. Stick shifts involve considerably more skill and expertise to drive. For instance, a stick shift is harder to get under way when stuck on a steep hill and in congested traffic a lot of shifting and working the clutch pedal is required.

Performing in the Clutch

Because there are contrasts in how the clutch and shifter feel and operate, drivers should test drive before they purchase a car with a manual transmission. For example, the stick-shift Ford Focus reduces motor sounds by lowering motor revs. On the other hand, the manual transmissions in the xD and the Forester have expandable, ambiguous shifters, making the driving experience less engaging. Technological research has also uncovered that the Scions skewed driving position is complicated by having to utilize a clutch pedal.

Deciding whether to make the move to a stick shift ultimately comes down to personal preference. Does having more control over operation trump your budget concerns? Is your daily commute through heavy stop-and-go traffic, making a manual an extra hassle? Would you chafe at having your choices limited? When making your decision, don’t forget to weigh in these hidden benefits of driving a stick shift.

See Also — The Benefits of a Good Winch

Photos courtesy of Joseph Wright.

List of Best Compact Cars for 2012

January 10, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

The 2013 Toyota Corolla S (Photo: Toyota Motor Sales USA).

The compact car segment has strengthened in recent years as new models enter the fray, contending with established leaders including the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. These days, every major manufacturer has a stake in the segment with the Dodge Dart the most recent entry to hit the market.

For 2012, the auto trends we have been observing continue to point to increased sales for compact cars that are usually sold in sedan and hatchback body styles. These vehicles usually are priced from about $16,000 and are powered by small, efficient in-line four-cylinder engines. Manual and automatic five- or six-speed transmissions are typically used; each model is front-wheel-drive and offers seating for up to five occupants.

Beyond the top sellers, we will take a look at a number of also-rans for the calendar year.

1. Honda Civic. For 2012, the Honda Civic pushed past the Toyota Corolla to achieve the best selling compact car in America title. Introduced in 1973, the Civic has been updated, enlarged and redesigned numerous times. Its most recent design update was panned by critics, but that hasn’t stopped shoppers from flocking to a car prized for its reliability and value. Sales rose by 43.7 percent in 2012 to 317,909 units, demonstrating that Honda has put the horrors of a March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in its rearview mirror.

2. Toyota Corolla. Corolla not only loses its leadership in the US market, it apparently has seen its global edge erode too. While the Honda Civic is on top of the heap stateside, the Ford Focus is now the best selling car in the world, supplanting the Corolla. Corolla and Toyota Matrix sales are combined for reporting purposes with those sales up by 21.1 percent over 2011. Toyota sold 290,947 of its compact models in 2012.

3. Ford Focus. Unlike Honda and Toyota whose 2011 sales were suppressed by a natural disaster, sales of the Ford Focus rose naturally in 2012. Ford claimed a 40 percent increase in sales for its compact sedan and hatchback, selling 245,922 Ford Focus models in 2012. The Ford Focus is also now the best selling model in the world, with about 1 million units sold in 2012.

4. Chevrolet Cruze. Sales of the Chevrolet Cruze rose by 2.1 percent to 237,758 units, but that wasnt enough to keep this vehicle from being surpassed by the Ford Focus. The fifth-place leader, the Hyundai Elantra is closing in, but with a diesel model in the offing this year, the Chevrolet Cruze should continue to enjoy strong sales again in 2013.

5. Hyundai Elantra. Much credit must be given to Hyundai for bringing multiple winning models to the market in recent years. Despite its fuel economy dust-up, sales of the Hyundai Elantra rose by 8.4 percent in 2012, topping 200K units for the first time. Some 202,034 sales were registered in 2012, helping Hyundai beat out larger competition including Nissan, Volkswagen and Dodge.

Also Rans

The Volkswagen Jetta is a trusted vehicle and again nearly 150,000 units were sold in 2012, representing this German manufacturers top model by far. Other players worth a look include the Dodge Dart, Nissan Sentra, Kia Forte, and the Mazda Mazda3, compact hatchbacks and/or sedans offering great value, reliability and varying trim levels to suit most drivers tastes.

See Also — List of Best Midsize Sedans for 2012

Ford Makes Claim to Best Selling Truck and Car Models

January 7, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Two winning models for the Blue Oval.

2013 Ford F-150 XLT — For 36 straight years the F-Series reigns supreme.

The Ford Motor Company claims two best selling vehicles: its F-150 pickup truck and its compact Focus car. The former is no surprise as it has been Americas top selling pickup truck for 36 consecutive years. The latter is a best seller too, but not in the United States that distinction belongs to the Toyota Camry. Globally, however, the Ford Focus has supplanted the Toyota Corolla as the best selling vehicle in the world.

Two Winners

For 2012, Ford moved 645,316 units of its F-Series pickup trucks in the U.S. market alone. That number easily outpaced the Chevrolet Silverado. Indeed, with GMC Sierra sales included, Ford still managed to build more large trucks than GM.

On the other end of the vehicle spectrum are Fords small cars including its compact Focus line. US sales for the Ford Focus rose by 40 percent to 245,922 units, but still well behind its segment competitors: the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.

One Ford Policy

Ford Focus That the Focus is even a player is a tribute to company management that decided in 2008 to invoke a One Ford product strategy where similar vehicles are sold globally. That move brought the subcompact Fiesta to the US market followed by the European-designed Focus.

The new Focus replaced an American-designed model that was far different from the European model indeed the class leader that is taking the world by storm right now. By offering a single model across its many markets, Ford has cut costs and improved vehicle quality. North American drivers clearly have taken to the new model.

Polk Data

We don’t have official figures yet proving Fords assertion that the Focus has surged past the Toyota Corolla. Ford is basing its claims on sales numbers through September 2012, pegged at 737,856 units reports AutoExpress. If that pace has held steady then nearly 1 million Focus sales would have been made globally in 2012. R.L. Polk estimates that 966,000 Toyota Corolla models were sold last year reports AOL Autos.

The Ford Motor Company is more profitable today because of its One Ford policy. Some vehicles such as the F-150 and Taurus sedan have limited appeal beyond its home market, but still help Ford round out is vehicle line. Fords strategy is working and once again the blue oval sold more than 2 million new vehicles in the US.

Photos courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Ford Confirms Fiesta Production, Hatchback Plans

June 1, 2008 by admin 2 Comments

Step back in time with me when men’s hair was longer, pants wider, and shirts tighter. The year was 1976 and the Ford Fiesta (top photo) made its initial debut in Europe. Eventually, the car made its way to North America, but it never had quite the success it managed to achieve on the other side of the pond.

Ford Fiesta Later, Europe and North America shared Ford’s world car, the Escort, but the closest we’ve gone to having a car that both Europeans and North Americans loved was the Focus. Even now, the Focus sold in Canada and the United States isn’t the same one sold in Europe.

Last Friday, Ford announced that the all-new Fiesta (bottom photo), which will be hitting European streets in 2009, will begin production at the company’s Cuautitlán Assembly Plant in Mexico early the following year. Moreover, the subcompact sedan will be joined by a hatchback with both cars sold in the North American market.

Ford Verve At present, the Mexican plant produces F-Series pick up truck for the Mexican market, but will be converted into a plant that produces the Fiesta for the North American market (US, Canada). In addition, Ford has announced that the company’s Chihuahua Engine Plant, which already builds I-4 engines, will assemble diesel engines for light- and medium-duty trucks in a variety of global markets. Lastly, via a joint collaboration with Getrag (GFT), Ford will build a new transmission plant in Guanajuato to support a number of Ford products.

Ford’s total investment in Mexico will increase by $3 billion which includes investments being made by local suppliers, with as many as 4500 new Ford jobs coming to Mexico.

The Ford Verve concept which appeared at auto shows this year is the design for the next generation Fiesta.

See Also — Hot Hatch: Ford Fiesta ST

(Source: Ford Motor Company)

FORD FOCUS

Legal Action on Behalf of Affected Owners

Your Affected Ford Vehicle

California Lemon Law

Lemon Laws by State

Chevrolet: Sonic and Impala

Dodge and Chrysler: A Vulnerable Trio

Ford: Only the Mustang Remains

Honda: Staying the Course

Nissan: Maxima on a Short Leash

Toyota: Several Models Might Get 86’d

Volkswagen: A Passe Passat?

Hyundai and Kia: Opportunity Lurks

Looking Ahead

2017 Volkswagen Jetta

Exterior Highlights

Interior Highlights

On the Road

Safety and Technology

Parting Thoughts

2017 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0T GLI

2015 Ford Focus

New Safety Features

Three-Cylinder EcoBoost Engine

2013 Compact Cars

Looking Ahead

Related Reading

2014 Toyota Corolla

Corolla Trim Levels

Miami Traffic Machine

Capable CVT

Your Buying Considerations

Transmission Testing 1-2-3

The Shift That Keeps on Giving

Getting It in Gear

Performing in the Clutch

Also Rans

Two Winners

One Ford Policy

Polk Data