http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=endscreen&v=yA8jPjjPwkk
I want one.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Thursday, May 17, 2012
New RWD from Chevy, now confirmed!
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/holden-to-announce-export-of-commodore-sedan-to-north-america-o/
Hit the link for the details. Short version--remember the Pontiac G8? Pissed you didn't get one? You're getting another shot, only now it'll be updated, possibly with more power and a nicer interior. Look for it late calendar 2013 as a '14 model.
Hit the link for the details. Short version--remember the Pontiac G8? Pissed you didn't get one? You're getting another shot, only now it'll be updated, possibly with more power and a nicer interior. Look for it late calendar 2013 as a '14 model.
Monday, April 16, 2012
2013 Dodge Dart-- The Details
Chrysler today sent out a press release on the new 2013 Dodge Dart, a car that impressed me quite a bit when I saw it at both the Detroit and Pittsburgh auto shows. It's a sharp-looking car, and it looks like Chrysler isn't fooling around when it comes to equipment. Here's the breakdown.
The base model Dart SE stickers for just a hair under $16,000, and includes 10 airbags, ABS, power windows, an AM/FM/6-disc CD changer with MP3 playback, a six-way adjustable driver's seat and soft-touch materials all around. Powertrain is a 2.0L DOHC four making 160HP and 148lb-ft torque, eclipsing its crosstown rivals the Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus rather easily.
The SXT model will set you back another 2 grand, but that gets you power locks and mirrors, AC, 17" wheels, security system, and the option of a 1.4L turbo four which makes the same horsepower as the 2.0L unit (160) but makes almost 40lb-ft more torque. Combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, this could be the engine of choice for enthusiasts.
The Rallye and Limited models add even more equipment, including the 7-inch reconfigurable LCD dash panel, which can display all manner of information and offers a variety of options to customize the appearance of your dash. The Rallye comes in at 18 grand, the Limited just under 20 thousand.
The top of the line R/T will set you back $22,500, but with it you get the 2.4L "Tigershark" four cylinder. This engine makes 184HP and 171 lb-ft of torque, and the R/T comes with all the bells and whistles--stuff like Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and just about all the stuff on the lower trim levels.
You can check out all the details for yourself on Dodge's website, here.
The base model Dart SE stickers for just a hair under $16,000, and includes 10 airbags, ABS, power windows, an AM/FM/6-disc CD changer with MP3 playback, a six-way adjustable driver's seat and soft-touch materials all around. Powertrain is a 2.0L DOHC four making 160HP and 148lb-ft torque, eclipsing its crosstown rivals the Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus rather easily.
The SXT model will set you back another 2 grand, but that gets you power locks and mirrors, AC, 17" wheels, security system, and the option of a 1.4L turbo four which makes the same horsepower as the 2.0L unit (160) but makes almost 40lb-ft more torque. Combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, this could be the engine of choice for enthusiasts.
The Rallye and Limited models add even more equipment, including the 7-inch reconfigurable LCD dash panel, which can display all manner of information and offers a variety of options to customize the appearance of your dash. The Rallye comes in at 18 grand, the Limited just under 20 thousand.
The top of the line R/T will set you back $22,500, but with it you get the 2.4L "Tigershark" four cylinder. This engine makes 184HP and 171 lb-ft of torque, and the R/T comes with all the bells and whistles--stuff like Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and just about all the stuff on the lower trim levels.
You can check out all the details for yourself on Dodge's website, here.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Happy Easter!
I'd like to take a minute to wish everyone in the Downshift community (all four of you) a happy Easter holiday.
I'd also like to talk a bit about Easter eggs. Not the kind that rabbits lay around your house--..wait, what do you mean rabbits don't lay eggs? ....Meh, whatever. Anyway, I'm talking about the kind the people hide in things. Little extra bits and secrets and the like most common in software development. Like the flight simulator they hid in MS Excel '97, or all the little bits and bobs hidden throughout the Grand Theft Auto series of video games.
But how many cars do you know of have Easter eggs hidden in them? Not many that I know of. I remember hearing Ford's 6.2L V8 has "THE BOSS IS BACK" stamped in the valley between the Vs, under the intake manifold. That counts, I think. Many cars have non-defeatable traction control systems that actually CAN be switched off with an elaborate manipulation of the car's controls.
A part of me kinda likes stuff like that, but a part of me wonders why they felt they had to hide it in the first place.
I'd also like to talk a bit about Easter eggs. Not the kind that rabbits lay around your house--..wait, what do you mean rabbits don't lay eggs? ....Meh, whatever. Anyway, I'm talking about the kind the people hide in things. Little extra bits and secrets and the like most common in software development. Like the flight simulator they hid in MS Excel '97, or all the little bits and bobs hidden throughout the Grand Theft Auto series of video games.
But how many cars do you know of have Easter eggs hidden in them? Not many that I know of. I remember hearing Ford's 6.2L V8 has "THE BOSS IS BACK" stamped in the valley between the Vs, under the intake manifold. That counts, I think. Many cars have non-defeatable traction control systems that actually CAN be switched off with an elaborate manipulation of the car's controls.
A part of me kinda likes stuff like that, but a part of me wonders why they felt they had to hide it in the first place.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
NYC Auto Show: 2014 Chevy Impala
No screwing around, here it is.
First, look at it. I have to echo the sentiments of the Gawker boys--it's a damn good looking car. The front end has some of that classic American aggression, and you can see a shadow of the Camaro's hips in the rear quarter panels. It's a sculpted, purposeful design that, in that dark Imperial Blue, makes the car look very classy. Inside it's much of the same--the dash looks great and as the car is based on GM's Super Epsilon II, it should be very roomy.
Unfortunately things start to fall apart in powertrain. First, it's still front wheel drive. Second, the two base market engines are underpowered (a 195HP 2.5L four or 182HP 2.4L four with eAssist stop-start tech). At least the top level engine has plenty of grunt--GM's now ubiquitous 3.6L V6 making 303 HP.
Overall I'd call it a mixed bag. They positively nailed the styling, but the powertrain is a big fail for me--much like the Caddy XTS it's based on. While I'm betting more people will buy this one thanks to its dashing good looks, I'll be willing to bet after the first couple years, the majority of these cars will once again have Hertz license plates.
First, look at it. I have to echo the sentiments of the Gawker boys--it's a damn good looking car. The front end has some of that classic American aggression, and you can see a shadow of the Camaro's hips in the rear quarter panels. It's a sculpted, purposeful design that, in that dark Imperial Blue, makes the car look very classy. Inside it's much of the same--the dash looks great and as the car is based on GM's Super Epsilon II, it should be very roomy.
Unfortunately things start to fall apart in powertrain. First, it's still front wheel drive. Second, the two base market engines are underpowered (a 195HP 2.5L four or 182HP 2.4L four with eAssist stop-start tech). At least the top level engine has plenty of grunt--GM's now ubiquitous 3.6L V6 making 303 HP.
Overall I'd call it a mixed bag. They positively nailed the styling, but the powertrain is a big fail for me--much like the Caddy XTS it's based on. While I'm betting more people will buy this one thanks to its dashing good looks, I'll be willing to bet after the first couple years, the majority of these cars will once again have Hertz license plates.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
They Changed It, Now It Sucks: NYC Taxi Edition
In yet another example of whiny crybabies complaining for no good reason, we have the NY Auto Show and the official public unveiling of the new New York City taxi--the Nissan NV200. The NV200 is a small, 4-cylinder minivan. It has lots of space in back. It has antimicrobial seats and an odor-absorbing headliner. It has a huge skylight in the roof so tourists can gawk at the big buildings. There's a disabled-accesible version coming soon and the small van is smaller and more fuel-efficient than the aged Crown Victoria it's replacing.
And the haterade is flowing freely. The complaints are typical. "They should've kept the Crown Victoria!" Um, hello? Ford stopped building it. "It's not American!" The Ford Transit Connect was in the running, but lost out to the Nissan. "It's ugly!" Whiskey Tango Foxtrot? It's a CAB, not a fashion statement.
Look, if you're upset because the deal was most likely secured in a backroom deal with Mayor Bloomberg that likely involved a massive kickback, I'm fine with that (because that's probably what actually happened, given the environment). But if you're just whining because it's not a Vic, please just stop talking. Half these morons don't even LIVE in New York, nor will they ever go there. So what flipping difference does it make to you? It's like complaining about the ties that the waiters at that fancy nightclub wear when you can't even pay the cover charge.
The fact is that for that city, the NV200 is better at doing the job than the Crown Vic ever was. It'll save thousands of gallons of gas and probably a few miles of roadway (the NV200 is considerably shorter than the Vic) It's probably cheaper, too. So quit whining.
And the haterade is flowing freely. The complaints are typical. "They should've kept the Crown Victoria!" Um, hello? Ford stopped building it. "It's not American!" The Ford Transit Connect was in the running, but lost out to the Nissan. "It's ugly!" Whiskey Tango Foxtrot? It's a CAB, not a fashion statement.
Look, if you're upset because the deal was most likely secured in a backroom deal with Mayor Bloomberg that likely involved a massive kickback, I'm fine with that (because that's probably what actually happened, given the environment). But if you're just whining because it's not a Vic, please just stop talking. Half these morons don't even LIVE in New York, nor will they ever go there. So what flipping difference does it make to you? It's like complaining about the ties that the waiters at that fancy nightclub wear when you can't even pay the cover charge.
The fact is that for that city, the NV200 is better at doing the job than the Crown Vic ever was. It'll save thousands of gallons of gas and probably a few miles of roadway (the NV200 is considerably shorter than the Vic) It's probably cheaper, too. So quit whining.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Toyota GT86 Gets New Motor, Peasants Rejoice
File this one under "What took you so long?" Apparently a Japanese drifter has already snagged one of the brand new Toyota GT86 sport coupes (to be sold in the US as the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ). Out came the standard 2.0L boxer four and in its place now sits the DOHC 5.0L V8 from the Lexus IS-F. In stock trim this engine is good for 416 HP and, as you can see, this much extra horsepower makes the Toyota quite tail-happy. Which is kind of what you want if you're going drifting.
The Youtube video linked above is a shakedown run of the new car, complete with new wheels and a widebody kit. Of note is the engine fitment--still low and back in the engine bay. The stock hood closes properly. The engine looks like it belongs in there.
I wonder how long it'll take before someone Stateside does the same thing with a Chevy LS motor or a new Ford 5.0. Both the 6.2L LS3 and the Ford 5.0 make more power than the IS' motor, and will weigh about the same (the LS might be lighter due to it being an OHV engine as opposed to the other two DOHC units).
The Youtube video linked above is a shakedown run of the new car, complete with new wheels and a widebody kit. Of note is the engine fitment--still low and back in the engine bay. The stock hood closes properly. The engine looks like it belongs in there.
I wonder how long it'll take before someone Stateside does the same thing with a Chevy LS motor or a new Ford 5.0. Both the 6.2L LS3 and the Ford 5.0 make more power than the IS' motor, and will weigh about the same (the LS might be lighter due to it being an OHV engine as opposed to the other two DOHC units).
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
The Ultimate Sleeper
It is said that when all you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail.
But if you have a big enough hammer, your problems tend to vanish quickly.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you, that hammer.
What is currently bombarding your eyeballs with testosterone and awesomeness is the brand spanking new Shelby Cobra 1000, freshly released for the 25th Anniversary of Carroll Shelby's tuning company.
"Looks like a Shelby GT500 with some shiny bits", you're probably saying to yourself, "What's so special about this hammer?"
Well, the street version of this monster is good for....are you ready?
950 Horsepower.
I will say it again for those of you who are on drugs.
950 HORSEPOWER.
Now, if you are like my wife and have no idea what that means in relation to anything else, I'll lay it out for you.
The 2012 Shelby Cobra GT500, apon which this car is based, is good for 550 horsepower. That means that this is 400 horsepower more powerful (if you want, you could also say it is as powerful as a GT500 and a pair of VW GTIs put together).
From another point of view, compared to the Bugatti Veyron, which is right now the 3rd fastest car in the world, the Shelby Cobra 1000 has 51 fewer horses.
And it's not going to be just fast in a straight line, either. Shelby and his team also upgraded the suspension. (Read about it here in Motor Trend).
"But Iron!", you say, "I am in need of more horsepower, and I'm also quite possibly deranged. I need a track car as bonkers as I am! Whatever am I to do?"
Well, cease wringing your hands in despair, dear reader, because they are coming out with a track only version of the Shelby 1000, which is good for 1100 horsepower (in other words, it's as strong as the 1000 plus my family Mazda5).
Now, here's the downside: Shelby and Co. are only making 100 of both models. Combined.
And there's also the price. Expect to pay upwards of $200,000.
Then again, the Veyron costs $300,000 more, and nobody in their right mind is going to want to get into a drag race with you because they KNOW they can't win.
With this, you won't have that worry.
But if you have a big enough hammer, your problems tend to vanish quickly.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you, that hammer.
What is currently bombarding your eyeballs with testosterone and awesomeness is the brand spanking new Shelby Cobra 1000, freshly released for the 25th Anniversary of Carroll Shelby's tuning company.
"Looks like a Shelby GT500 with some shiny bits", you're probably saying to yourself, "What's so special about this hammer?"
Well, the street version of this monster is good for....are you ready?
950 Horsepower.
I will say it again for those of you who are on drugs.
950 HORSEPOWER.
Now, if you are like my wife and have no idea what that means in relation to anything else, I'll lay it out for you.
The 2012 Shelby Cobra GT500, apon which this car is based, is good for 550 horsepower. That means that this is 400 horsepower more powerful (if you want, you could also say it is as powerful as a GT500 and a pair of VW GTIs put together).
From another point of view, compared to the Bugatti Veyron, which is right now the 3rd fastest car in the world, the Shelby Cobra 1000 has 51 fewer horses.
And it's not going to be just fast in a straight line, either. Shelby and his team also upgraded the suspension. (Read about it here in Motor Trend).
"But Iron!", you say, "I am in need of more horsepower, and I'm also quite possibly deranged. I need a track car as bonkers as I am! Whatever am I to do?"
Well, cease wringing your hands in despair, dear reader, because they are coming out with a track only version of the Shelby 1000, which is good for 1100 horsepower (in other words, it's as strong as the 1000 plus my family Mazda5).
Now, here's the downside: Shelby and Co. are only making 100 of both models. Combined.
And there's also the price. Expect to pay upwards of $200,000.
Then again, the Veyron costs $300,000 more, and nobody in their right mind is going to want to get into a drag race with you because they KNOW they can't win.
With this, you won't have that worry.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Natural Habitat
So, I've been doing some introspective thinking about the state of the automotive union today; thinking about what the manufacturers are making and what's likely to be the future.
The answer is that as things look right now, the future of accessible automotive performance in America is likely to mirror what the current state of accessible automotive performance is in Europe - hot hatches.
You heard it here first; I, Tsume, cede that if you want to get your performance kicks in the future it's very likely to be manning the tiller of a revvy little overhead cam hatchback.
I think it's crap. This is why.
Look at anyone who's trying to sell pocket-rocket type cars today; the words they use are ideas like "nimble" and "eager" and "effervescent". Basically, a hot hatch lives for a place like this:
See that? You don't need a 400 hp V8 to really enjoy that road at all, do you. A Chrysler 300 SRT-8 would look like a bison in wellies compared to the lithe ballerina a WRX or a Focus RS presents carving down that ribbon of asphalt.
Now, check this out:
This is where I live. In fact, between the Rockies and the Appalachian mountains, this is how almost all the roads look. This is the sort of place where a guy's got to drive for an hour at 80 mph to get to the nearest building more than three stories tall. All of a sudden those cheerful advertising words like take on a different meaning - what was nimble, eager and effervescent on the European-style b-roads is darty, fussy and droning when exposed to the long-haul freeways of middle America.
What you want here is a big, loafy V8, muttering along quietly at cruise and then kicking down with explosive torque to pass the poor sod who's trying to scoop his fillings off the floor of his Fiesta because Top Gear told him it was a good car.
So what's the point?
There's different things for different habitats - people who live in flyover country and want a performance car shouldn't have to just accept that they'll be forced into buying something that makes no sense for driving where they live. Just as American cars make no sense in Europe, out here European cars are about as sensible as a pet squid.
We need our big, cheap V8 touring cars. They're what makes sense out here.
The answer is that as things look right now, the future of accessible automotive performance in America is likely to mirror what the current state of accessible automotive performance is in Europe - hot hatches.
You heard it here first; I, Tsume, cede that if you want to get your performance kicks in the future it's very likely to be manning the tiller of a revvy little overhead cam hatchback.
I think it's crap. This is why.
Look at anyone who's trying to sell pocket-rocket type cars today; the words they use are ideas like "nimble" and "eager" and "effervescent". Basically, a hot hatch lives for a place like this:
See that? You don't need a 400 hp V8 to really enjoy that road at all, do you. A Chrysler 300 SRT-8 would look like a bison in wellies compared to the lithe ballerina a WRX or a Focus RS presents carving down that ribbon of asphalt.
Now, check this out:
This is where I live. In fact, between the Rockies and the Appalachian mountains, this is how almost all the roads look. This is the sort of place where a guy's got to drive for an hour at 80 mph to get to the nearest building more than three stories tall. All of a sudden those cheerful advertising words like take on a different meaning - what was nimble, eager and effervescent on the European-style b-roads is darty, fussy and droning when exposed to the long-haul freeways of middle America.
What you want here is a big, loafy V8, muttering along quietly at cruise and then kicking down with explosive torque to pass the poor sod who's trying to scoop his fillings off the floor of his Fiesta because Top Gear told him it was a good car.
So what's the point?
There's different things for different habitats - people who live in flyover country and want a performance car shouldn't have to just accept that they'll be forced into buying something that makes no sense for driving where they live. Just as American cars make no sense in Europe, out here European cars are about as sensible as a pet squid.
We need our big, cheap V8 touring cars. They're what makes sense out here.
What Makes a Car Guy? (Or girl)
Get your water wings, fellas. I'm probably gonna get a little deep here.
It's a valid question, right? A lot of people say they're "car guys", but are they? Are they just attaching a label to themselves in some vain hope to fit in, or are they a real car guy?
I think we need to start with a definition of what is and isn't a car guy. Or girl. Cuz we're all equal opportunity and crap like that. So what's it really take to be a car guy? Well there are a few things most people define as car guy-esque. The guy that wrenches on his own motors is a car guy. The guy that does amateur racing is a car guy. The guy that seems an endless font of knowledge of all things automotive is a car guy, or the guy that can drop year, make and model on seemingly any car just from a piece of trim or a taillamp is a car guy. Or they say they are. And I can't really fault any of those qualifications. But I don't think that's all there is to it.
You see, there are some that call me a car guy. But the problem is, I don't fit ANY of the above criteria. I don't go racing. I'm all thumbs when it comes to tools. I definitely don't have the knowledge and my brain goes fuzzy trying to identify even some common makes and models. I don't have any of it. I don't even own a "car guy worthy" car. I drive a midsize FWD sedan for God's sake, the automotive equivalent of Wonder bread. It's not on any car guy's short list of dream rides, that's for sure. It's not pretty, and it's not fast, and it won't get you any well-endowed women with loose morals. So am I a car guy? Well, by the classic definition above, no. Not even close. I'm just some regular schmuck who happens to like cars a little.
Except the definition is wrong.
I think there's more to being a car guy than owning something with a ton of horsepower that's got a glovebox full of timeslips from the autocross track or the drag strip. There's more to it than an encyclopedic knowledge of all things 4-wheeled. There's more to it than having the prettiest, shiniest machine on the block. There is more at play here. I believe there are only two things you need to be a real car guy. The first and most important thing is that you LOVE CARS. It seems obvious at first blush but a lot of folks overlook that one simple fact. You don't have to know everything, you just have to know you love these four wheeled machines. The second, and more subtle thing is that you should just know what makes a car good and what makes a car bad. Any dipstick can rattle off performance numbers and say "This car is better than that car". Well on paper maybe, but that's only part of it. If all that mattered were statistics 99% of the driving public would be in a Corolla or Prius, because it's the best car that fits their needs 99% of the time. No, there's much much more to it than that.
There are any number of small nuances in the way a car moves, the way it feels, that makes a car good or bad. Let's, for giggles, look at my daily driver. It's a 2008 Ford Fusion SE with the 2.3L four. Is it fast? It's got 160HP and weighs 3500lbs. No, it's not fast. Is it pretty? The front end looks like a disposable razor and the rest is typical three-box midsize sedan. So no, it's not really pretty either. So what makes it such a great driver's car? Put a good set of performance tires on it and watch the car come alive. The front suspension is built for high speed stability, but the car is set up to handle twisty roads remarkably well. Hit the mountain two-lanes and you'll be rewarded with a car that's stable, planted and predictable all the way to the limits of its adhesion. No it's not fast, but the 2.3 has enough torque to squirt out of corners and build speed until you get to the next one. The brakes are firm and communicative. The chassis understeers, but it's a progressive understeer, one you can see coming a long way off and correct for. This car is not beige. It's only beige for people who want beige. For the car guy, it's a sport sedan. Is it an M5 on a budget? HECK no. But it's plenty capable in the hands of someone who knows how to get the most out of it. In the hands of a car guy, this car will MOVE.
So then, by this new definition, would you say I was a car guy or not?
It's a valid question, right? A lot of people say they're "car guys", but are they? Are they just attaching a label to themselves in some vain hope to fit in, or are they a real car guy?
I think we need to start with a definition of what is and isn't a car guy. Or girl. Cuz we're all equal opportunity and crap like that. So what's it really take to be a car guy? Well there are a few things most people define as car guy-esque. The guy that wrenches on his own motors is a car guy. The guy that does amateur racing is a car guy. The guy that seems an endless font of knowledge of all things automotive is a car guy, or the guy that can drop year, make and model on seemingly any car just from a piece of trim or a taillamp is a car guy. Or they say they are. And I can't really fault any of those qualifications. But I don't think that's all there is to it.
You see, there are some that call me a car guy. But the problem is, I don't fit ANY of the above criteria. I don't go racing. I'm all thumbs when it comes to tools. I definitely don't have the knowledge and my brain goes fuzzy trying to identify even some common makes and models. I don't have any of it. I don't even own a "car guy worthy" car. I drive a midsize FWD sedan for God's sake, the automotive equivalent of Wonder bread. It's not on any car guy's short list of dream rides, that's for sure. It's not pretty, and it's not fast, and it won't get you any well-endowed women with loose morals. So am I a car guy? Well, by the classic definition above, no. Not even close. I'm just some regular schmuck who happens to like cars a little.
Except the definition is wrong.
I think there's more to being a car guy than owning something with a ton of horsepower that's got a glovebox full of timeslips from the autocross track or the drag strip. There's more to it than an encyclopedic knowledge of all things 4-wheeled. There's more to it than having the prettiest, shiniest machine on the block. There is more at play here. I believe there are only two things you need to be a real car guy. The first and most important thing is that you LOVE CARS. It seems obvious at first blush but a lot of folks overlook that one simple fact. You don't have to know everything, you just have to know you love these four wheeled machines. The second, and more subtle thing is that you should just know what makes a car good and what makes a car bad. Any dipstick can rattle off performance numbers and say "This car is better than that car". Well on paper maybe, but that's only part of it. If all that mattered were statistics 99% of the driving public would be in a Corolla or Prius, because it's the best car that fits their needs 99% of the time. No, there's much much more to it than that.
There are any number of small nuances in the way a car moves, the way it feels, that makes a car good or bad. Let's, for giggles, look at my daily driver. It's a 2008 Ford Fusion SE with the 2.3L four. Is it fast? It's got 160HP and weighs 3500lbs. No, it's not fast. Is it pretty? The front end looks like a disposable razor and the rest is typical three-box midsize sedan. So no, it's not really pretty either. So what makes it such a great driver's car? Put a good set of performance tires on it and watch the car come alive. The front suspension is built for high speed stability, but the car is set up to handle twisty roads remarkably well. Hit the mountain two-lanes and you'll be rewarded with a car that's stable, planted and predictable all the way to the limits of its adhesion. No it's not fast, but the 2.3 has enough torque to squirt out of corners and build speed until you get to the next one. The brakes are firm and communicative. The chassis understeers, but it's a progressive understeer, one you can see coming a long way off and correct for. This car is not beige. It's only beige for people who want beige. For the car guy, it's a sport sedan. Is it an M5 on a budget? HECK no. But it's plenty capable in the hands of someone who knows how to get the most out of it. In the hands of a car guy, this car will MOVE.
So then, by this new definition, would you say I was a car guy or not?
Friday, March 16, 2012
Configurator Challenge, CA Edition
So, time for the West Coast to strut its stuff in the Configurator Challenge.
For the under $20k, I managed to get a pretty good deal with a Mazda3 iTouring. Sadly, Mazda doesn't have a share page for their cars, but I'll run down the list of why I chose this. For starters, for the money, the Mazda3 is probably one of the best driving cars on the road today. And, with their new Skyactiv 6-speed manual, that gets you 155 horsepower and 39 mpg (you can get one more mpg on the freeway with the 6 speed auto, but that, combined with the destination fee, comes in at just over $20k). As is, with the manual, there's just enough room for you to get a spoiler on the back, and at $19,920, comes in at $80 under budget.
Expensive for the segment? Sure. But you get what you pay for.
For the under $30,000, I went with a Dodge Charger SXT.
Why?
Well, for one, it's a big, hairy chested man of a car. It makes no bones about what it is, and it looks damn good while it does it. If Billy Dee Williams were a car, this is what he'd look like. Asthetics aside, here's what this car has: a brand new, 3.6L V-6 good for 292 horsepower, a cracking smart 8 speed transmission, REAR WHEEL DRIVE (take THAT, Kia!) and a long list of standard features: Keyless Ignition, Bluetooth, 1 year of Satellite Radio, USB, and a list of features a mile long.
With the Rallye Appearance package (2o inch rims and nicer tires, performance suspension, and paddle shifters) and Navigation/Rear backup camera options, this Charger SXT rings the registers at $29,510. Not too shabby.
Finally, for the under $40,000: The Hyundai Genesis R-Spec
Hyundai? Well, there's a good reason. First, it's a good looking car. Plus, let's look at what comes standard:
429 Hp 5.0L V-8 Engine.
19 Inch Rims
A sport tuned suspension
Heated front seats
A cooled driver's seat (because the plebes riding with you can roast their giblets in the summer, ahahaha!)
Add to that the options of Bridgestone performance tires, and it rings the registers at $48,755. For all that you get a handsome, fast and comfortable luxury car that can lay claim to exclusivity and grace.
For the under $20k, I managed to get a pretty good deal with a Mazda3 iTouring. Sadly, Mazda doesn't have a share page for their cars, but I'll run down the list of why I chose this. For starters, for the money, the Mazda3 is probably one of the best driving cars on the road today. And, with their new Skyactiv 6-speed manual, that gets you 155 horsepower and 39 mpg (you can get one more mpg on the freeway with the 6 speed auto, but that, combined with the destination fee, comes in at just over $20k). As is, with the manual, there's just enough room for you to get a spoiler on the back, and at $19,920, comes in at $80 under budget.
Expensive for the segment? Sure. But you get what you pay for.
For the under $30,000, I went with a Dodge Charger SXT.
Why?
Well, for one, it's a big, hairy chested man of a car. It makes no bones about what it is, and it looks damn good while it does it. If Billy Dee Williams were a car, this is what he'd look like. Asthetics aside, here's what this car has: a brand new, 3.6L V-6 good for 292 horsepower, a cracking smart 8 speed transmission, REAR WHEEL DRIVE (take THAT, Kia!) and a long list of standard features: Keyless Ignition, Bluetooth, 1 year of Satellite Radio, USB, and a list of features a mile long.
With the Rallye Appearance package (2o inch rims and nicer tires, performance suspension, and paddle shifters) and Navigation/Rear backup camera options, this Charger SXT rings the registers at $29,510. Not too shabby.
Finally, for the under $40,000: The Hyundai Genesis R-Spec
Hyundai? Well, there's a good reason. First, it's a good looking car. Plus, let's look at what comes standard:
429 Hp 5.0L V-8 Engine.
19 Inch Rims
A sport tuned suspension
Heated front seats
A cooled driver's seat (because the plebes riding with you can roast their giblets in the summer, ahahaha!)
Add to that the options of Bridgestone performance tires, and it rings the registers at $48,755. For all that you get a handsome, fast and comfortable luxury car that can lay claim to exclusivity and grace.
The Configurator Challenge, Okie Edition
Here's my list.
1.) Sporty Compact:
I am allergic to new compact cars. I dislike front wheel drive, I dislike sideways four pot motors, and I dislike that they are invariably styled to look like a tarted up cordless mouse.
One of these is an inexpensive, sculpted lump of plastics and electronics. The other is a computer mouse.
No number of overhead cams or turbos can cajole me into liking one. But, as I must choose, I choose you, Nissan-chu!
It's a Nissan Versa with a 5 speed stick and a lighted ash tray. It's about the cheapest thing you can buy new in America. I choose this because I don't really care for compact cars, and if I was going to have to have something I didn't want, I would get it at the cheapest price possible.
I would use the other roughly $8,000 to buy this:
http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/cto/2890376828.html
Drive the Nissan to work with the other cubicle-dwellers, get decent mileage, then drive something I give one iota of one crap about on the weekends. Not a bad deal, really.
2.) Midsized Sedan:
There are only two options for me on this one - Hyundai Genesis or Charger R/T. I chose the burly American.
Dodge Charger R/T
Coming in at just under $30,000, a fella can get a 370 hp Dodge Charger R/T; it's got rear wheel drive, a big stonkin' V8, great styling and... Probably other things. I don't care a great deal about those things, to be perfectly honest. I mean, look at it; would you really rather have a sucked on throat lozenge lookin' Camry or this mean burly bugger? I'm takin' the charger, and spending the $5 I have left on a pack of cigs.
3.) Luxury Sedan or SUV:
This one is something of a bear. The Infiniti M56 opens up at 57k. No dice. CTS-V? Almost 60k. BWAH! Town car? Mrrrrrr, maybe if Ford had put the Coyote in it. DTS sedan? I guess if I'm being driven somewhere, fine...
What's that Eminem? What can I import from Detroit for under $50,000? A Shiny Red SRT-8 300C? The HECK you say! Really, a 6.4L Hemi? I'm all over this.
Chrysler 300 SRT 8
Thank you, Eminem. I am sorry I said bad things about Rap music, you were very helpful and courteous this time.
So, that's my picks. Nissan Generica (Versa) Dodge Charger R/T and a Chrysler 300.
Because GM and Ford don't make V-8 RWD cars anymore. Jerks.
1.) Sporty Compact:
I am allergic to new compact cars. I dislike front wheel drive, I dislike sideways four pot motors, and I dislike that they are invariably styled to look like a tarted up cordless mouse.
One of these is an inexpensive, sculpted lump of plastics and electronics. The other is a computer mouse.
No number of overhead cams or turbos can cajole me into liking one. But, as I must choose, I choose you, Nissan-chu!
It's a Nissan Versa with a 5 speed stick and a lighted ash tray. It's about the cheapest thing you can buy new in America. I choose this because I don't really care for compact cars, and if I was going to have to have something I didn't want, I would get it at the cheapest price possible.
I would use the other roughly $8,000 to buy this:
http://oklahomacity.craigslist.org/cto/2890376828.html
Drive the Nissan to work with the other cubicle-dwellers, get decent mileage, then drive something I give one iota of one crap about on the weekends. Not a bad deal, really.
2.) Midsized Sedan:
There are only two options for me on this one - Hyundai Genesis or Charger R/T. I chose the burly American.
Dodge Charger R/T
Coming in at just under $30,000, a fella can get a 370 hp Dodge Charger R/T; it's got rear wheel drive, a big stonkin' V8, great styling and... Probably other things. I don't care a great deal about those things, to be perfectly honest. I mean, look at it; would you really rather have a sucked on throat lozenge lookin' Camry or this mean burly bugger? I'm takin' the charger, and spending the $5 I have left on a pack of cigs.
3.) Luxury Sedan or SUV:
This one is something of a bear. The Infiniti M56 opens up at 57k. No dice. CTS-V? Almost 60k. BWAH! Town car? Mrrrrrr, maybe if Ford had put the Coyote in it. DTS sedan? I guess if I'm being driven somewhere, fine...
What's that Eminem? What can I import from Detroit for under $50,000? A Shiny Red SRT-8 300C? The HECK you say! Really, a 6.4L Hemi? I'm all over this.
Chrysler 300 SRT 8
Thank you, Eminem. I am sorry I said bad things about Rap music, you were very helpful and courteous this time.
So, that's my picks. Nissan Generica (Versa) Dodge Charger R/T and a Chrysler 300.
Because GM and Ford don't make V-8 RWD cars anymore. Jerks.
The Configurator Challenge
You know those online configurator thingies that automakers put up, so car guys like us can waste time at work picking out our dream rides? Well I've decided to have a little challenge between me and the other two knuckleheads that run this dog and pony show. Here's the rules.
A: Each of us will pick three cars. A sporty compact or subcompact for under 20 grand, a midsize sedan for $20-30K, and a luxury car or SUV for $40-50K. We HAVE to select a car and options that are available right now, but as long as we stay in those guidelines anything goes.
So right off the bat, I'll show you what I've got.
My first selection, a sporty subcompact, is the 2012 Chevy Sonic. (You can see the build here.) Why did I pick the Sonic? Well for one it's cheap. Not only is it cheap, but it has a lot of great features for the money. It handles well, it rides nicely, it's got loads of room, and the turbo/stick combination makes for a peppy little runabout. I think it's one of the best cars in its class, and my build--nearly fully loaded--comes in a little over 18 grand. For that money it's tough to beat.
My second choice is the midsize sedan. There's no lack of competition in this segment. Every automaker has some skin in the game, and most of them are good cars. So I've decided to go out to left field, and I've picked the Kia Optima because it's a great looking car, it's got plenty of room, is comfortable, handles well and gets great mileage for its size. I selected an EX, which comes with the lovely little 274HP turbo four and six speed automatic. From there I selected the Premium package that includes heated power seats, sunroof, and a bunch of other lovely goodies that'll come in handy later on. All told I was out the door for $28,800. (Sorry, no build sheet available for this one)
My third choice was a luxury ride. This is tough, actually. There's a lot of really expensive metal out there, and while you can't really go WRONG, you can be more right than others. So once again, I went a little oddball. I decided on a luxury crossover, because what's the point of luxury if you can't share it with all your friends. My pick was the 2012 GMC Acadia Denali. Why did I pick this? For one, I think it's an attractive vehicle. It's easy to drive and maneuver in traffic, the 3.6L DOHC V6 has plenty of get up and go, it's reasonably economical and you can get just about anything you want on this thing (though it comes with most of it). I think it's a great pick. (build sheet here )
So there you have it. Now let's see what those other two came up with. Probably not as good as mine.
A: Each of us will pick three cars. A sporty compact or subcompact for under 20 grand, a midsize sedan for $20-30K, and a luxury car or SUV for $40-50K. We HAVE to select a car and options that are available right now, but as long as we stay in those guidelines anything goes.
So right off the bat, I'll show you what I've got.
My first selection, a sporty subcompact, is the 2012 Chevy Sonic. (You can see the build here.) Why did I pick the Sonic? Well for one it's cheap. Not only is it cheap, but it has a lot of great features for the money. It handles well, it rides nicely, it's got loads of room, and the turbo/stick combination makes for a peppy little runabout. I think it's one of the best cars in its class, and my build--nearly fully loaded--comes in a little over 18 grand. For that money it's tough to beat.
My second choice is the midsize sedan. There's no lack of competition in this segment. Every automaker has some skin in the game, and most of them are good cars. So I've decided to go out to left field, and I've picked the Kia Optima because it's a great looking car, it's got plenty of room, is comfortable, handles well and gets great mileage for its size. I selected an EX, which comes with the lovely little 274HP turbo four and six speed automatic. From there I selected the Premium package that includes heated power seats, sunroof, and a bunch of other lovely goodies that'll come in handy later on. All told I was out the door for $28,800. (Sorry, no build sheet available for this one)
My third choice was a luxury ride. This is tough, actually. There's a lot of really expensive metal out there, and while you can't really go WRONG, you can be more right than others. So once again, I went a little oddball. I decided on a luxury crossover, because what's the point of luxury if you can't share it with all your friends. My pick was the 2012 GMC Acadia Denali. Why did I pick this? For one, I think it's an attractive vehicle. It's easy to drive and maneuver in traffic, the 3.6L DOHC V6 has plenty of get up and go, it's reasonably economical and you can get just about anything you want on this thing (though it comes with most of it). I think it's a great pick. (build sheet here )
So there you have it. Now let's see what those other two came up with. Probably not as good as mine.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Proof that people will race anything
Since the dawn of transportation, when the second caveman made a wheel and said to the first one "Mine's faster," people have been racing. From chariots to stagecoaches to Formula One, there is always the impulse in man to say "I'm faster than you. My machine is faster than yours. Eat my [BLEEP]ing dust." Okay maybe not that last bit, but you get the idea. Need evidence? Well there's the 24 hours of Lemons, a series wherein people race the worst cars they can find until they hemorrhage fluids all over the track. There's European semi truck racing, where 10 ton behemoths take to road courses like Monza or Brands Hatch and duke it out like an over-sized version of NASCAR. There's even the Red Bull Air Races and America's Cup to show this isn't just limited to wheeled vehicles. My brother and his idiot friends used to race Skittles down the center aisle on the school bus on the ride home. (Don't ask.) And we won't even talk about those lunatics in MotoGP. What, that STILL isn't good enough? Fine.
Ukrainian tractor racing. Yup. Big lumbering farm implements bombing around a dirt track at speeds likely not recommended by the manufacturer. It's oddly amusing watching something clearly not meant for competition out competing.
People will race ANYTHING.
Ukrainian tractor racing. Yup. Big lumbering farm implements bombing around a dirt track at speeds likely not recommended by the manufacturer. It's oddly amusing watching something clearly not meant for competition out competing.
People will race ANYTHING.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Ey! Pisan!
Every car has its own soundtrack. The perfect song that sums up everything you need to know about the car's personality and performance.
I drove this today.
And I haven't been able to get Mambo Italiano out of my head since. (Full disclosure, this article is meant to be read while listening to this song.)
First, the highlights. This little Italian runabout has a lot of personality. From it's puppy dog cute styling to it's engine note (GRRRRRRR! I MAY BE THE SIZE OF YOUR BREADBOX BUT I'M A LOT OF FUN!), this little car is 10 lbs of charisma in a 5 lb bag.
The handling is bang on to for a small, fun car. It tracks well in the turns, and in Sport mode the throttle responses become more aggressive (in my opinion, Sport mode should be the default mode, but that's just me). There are some odd quirks, mostly due to the car's short wheel-base, tall center of gravity. You do feel a little top-heavy, but not dangerously so.
Inside, the interior is a pleasant place to be, but pick your interior color with care. Most of the dash is dominated by a plastic fascia that, in some colors, can be off putting. The version I drove was colored dark blue, with a blue and black interior, which came across rather well. The dashboard was nicely laid out too. One feature I liked about it was that the Spedometer and Tachometer are coincentrically mounted, with the Tach mounted inside the Spedo. This means that when you're accelerating, the speed needle keeps trying to chase your revs. This car is very active in encouraging you to go faster.
The space isn't bad either. I'm 6'1" and I fit in the front and back comfortably.
It's not all cannolis and pizza though. There are some faults, mostly with the cockpit ergonomics. For instance, the radio's volume and station are controlled by buttons, which isn't a problem unless you're driving aggressively. And you will drive this car aggressively. It compels you.
Plus, the window controls are in the center console in front of the shifter, which just throws me the hell off.
Bottom line, this car is a little terrier. Eager, full of energy, a little neurotic, and ready to run circles around bigger dogs. If you are in the market for a small, fun little car, take one for a spin. You won't regret it.
I drove this today.
And I haven't been able to get Mambo Italiano out of my head since. (Full disclosure, this article is meant to be read while listening to this song.)
First, the highlights. This little Italian runabout has a lot of personality. From it's puppy dog cute styling to it's engine note (GRRRRRRR! I MAY BE THE SIZE OF YOUR BREADBOX BUT I'M A LOT OF FUN!), this little car is 10 lbs of charisma in a 5 lb bag.
The handling is bang on to for a small, fun car. It tracks well in the turns, and in Sport mode the throttle responses become more aggressive (in my opinion, Sport mode should be the default mode, but that's just me). There are some odd quirks, mostly due to the car's short wheel-base, tall center of gravity. You do feel a little top-heavy, but not dangerously so.
Inside, the interior is a pleasant place to be, but pick your interior color with care. Most of the dash is dominated by a plastic fascia that, in some colors, can be off putting. The version I drove was colored dark blue, with a blue and black interior, which came across rather well. The dashboard was nicely laid out too. One feature I liked about it was that the Spedometer and Tachometer are coincentrically mounted, with the Tach mounted inside the Spedo. This means that when you're accelerating, the speed needle keeps trying to chase your revs. This car is very active in encouraging you to go faster.
The space isn't bad either. I'm 6'1" and I fit in the front and back comfortably.
It's not all cannolis and pizza though. There are some faults, mostly with the cockpit ergonomics. For instance, the radio's volume and station are controlled by buttons, which isn't a problem unless you're driving aggressively. And you will drive this car aggressively. It compels you.
Plus, the window controls are in the center console in front of the shifter, which just throws me the hell off.
Bottom line, this car is a little terrier. Eager, full of energy, a little neurotic, and ready to run circles around bigger dogs. If you are in the market for a small, fun little car, take one for a spin. You won't regret it.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Digital Adrenaline
The luxury sedan segment is crowded. Even the Koreans have gotten in on the market with the Genesis and the Equus. So, what's a person to do if they've got about $50k to blow on a luxury car?
Recently, I had a chance to drive Infinity's G37 Sedan. Sold in Japan as the Skyline, this is Infinity's (and thus, Nissan's) answer to the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, and Lexus IS. It also happens to be one of the best selling import luxury sedans out there.
Here's why.
For Starters, the car is fairly well priced. You can get the G-37 for under $40k. Plus, the cabin is a nice place to be. The leather is premium feeling, the dash is soft in all the right places, and the ergonomics are well laid out. The controls are all laid out right where you'd expect them, and dialing in your seat and steering wheel to get your optimum driver's position is a breeze.
All this is well and good, but what about the performance?
With some cars, performance can be delivered like opening a pair of floodgates: a trickle at first followed by a rush, and then petering out at the end. That's not the case with this car.
With the Infinity, the power arrives like you're flipping a light switch. One second, there's nothing, and then you put your foot down, and you are instantaneously very far away from where you were.
The ride is superb as well. Often, car makers can miss the distinction between a firm ride and a hard ride. Infinity haven't done that. The ride on the G37 is buttoned down and firm, but it doesn't destroy your back as well.
In short, this is a hot car to buy. For under $40k, you can get some real bang for your buck.
Though if you have $60k, take a look at the hot-rodded versions. Those are for when you need to drive around everywhere with your hair on fire. Then again, is that such a bad thing?
Recently, I had a chance to drive Infinity's G37 Sedan. Sold in Japan as the Skyline, this is Infinity's (and thus, Nissan's) answer to the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, and Lexus IS. It also happens to be one of the best selling import luxury sedans out there.
Here's why.
For Starters, the car is fairly well priced. You can get the G-37 for under $40k. Plus, the cabin is a nice place to be. The leather is premium feeling, the dash is soft in all the right places, and the ergonomics are well laid out. The controls are all laid out right where you'd expect them, and dialing in your seat and steering wheel to get your optimum driver's position is a breeze.
All this is well and good, but what about the performance?
With some cars, performance can be delivered like opening a pair of floodgates: a trickle at first followed by a rush, and then petering out at the end. That's not the case with this car.
With the Infinity, the power arrives like you're flipping a light switch. One second, there's nothing, and then you put your foot down, and you are instantaneously very far away from where you were.
The ride is superb as well. Often, car makers can miss the distinction between a firm ride and a hard ride. Infinity haven't done that. The ride on the G37 is buttoned down and firm, but it doesn't destroy your back as well.
In short, this is a hot car to buy. For under $40k, you can get some real bang for your buck.
Though if you have $60k, take a look at the hot-rodded versions. Those are for when you need to drive around everywhere with your hair on fire. Then again, is that such a bad thing?
2010 Camaro Review
Rather recently I had the opportunity to drive a 2010 Camaro RS for a week. Here's some thoughts on it:
When I took the wheel, I'd been daily-driving in a mid 90's Chevy throttle body injected truck. Getting up to speed on an onramp requires matting the pedal. I instinctively did that in the Camaro.
As I dropped back down from instant warp speed, the first cogent thought my brain could muster was that this is not the Camaro RS you see in the nickel trader being offered for $1,000 cash or a four wheeler; it doesn't have seats skinned in mousefur, it doesn't have a miserable 160ish horsepower V6 and it doesn't have a stonking girder for a drive axle - This, despite looking somewhat like a first generation Camaro, is a competent world-class sports car.
This is because it's based on a chassis designed by the Australians and has things like multilink independent rear suspension, Brembo brakes, and a 305 hp 3.6L Dual Overhead Cam Direct Injected V6 that also serves duty in the Cadillac CTS.
Weighing in at a solid 3800 lbs, it's not a lightweight, but driving it, it really doesn't feel as heavy as it is. Turn in is sharp, and the handling is neutral although with the traction control off it's very easy to get the rear end to step out if adequately coerced with the throttle.
Driven like a sane human being in mixed city and freeway driving, it averaged 27 mpg. Pause and consider, for a moment, that the last generation LT1 V8 Camaro produced 20 less horsepower and with an automatic might average 20 mpg. We've come a long way.
While I did enjoy this car thorougly, I did have a few sore points with it.
I didn't really find the small windows to be a problem, but the rear visibility is somewhat unworkable. While driving, this is not a huge deal; drop the loud pedal and if there was something lurking behind the massive B-pillar it certainly would no longer be there after several seconds. It is, however, a problem when reversing out of parking spaces on city streets. You can't see anything, and the mirrors are tiny.
Secondarily, while the high beltline certainly adds a rakish look to the car's profile, it completely inhibits the main thing you should be able to do when driving a Camaro which is driving around with your arm out the window looking tough. It's hard to look tough when your elbow's pointed skyward and your shoulder is nearly popped out of socket.
My final beef, and for me the most important one, is with the engine. As I mentioned, it moves the car with effortless aplomb, and in terms of powerband and feel it is more than adequate to the task. The thing that ruins it all, in my opinion, is that for all the rakish hot-rod looks, the wonderful handling and the excellent interior, is that when you stand on the gas it sounds like a late model Nissan Z car. This is because it's a V6, and because of things like firing order and crankshaft design there is nothing... NOTHING that can be done to make it sound like it belongs in a car that looks as uniquely American as the new Camaro. For some people this will not be a problem, but every time I hit the throttle it felt like I was looking at Jessica Simpson redubbed with an Japanese schoolgirl voice. Off putting.
Had GM, for example, put the 5.3L displacement on demand LS4 V8 from the Impala SS in it, they would have had roughly the same fuel economy and by Goshen it woulda sounded right.
Anime voice notwithstanding, however, the new Camaro is truly a world class piece of machinery. If you're in the market for a sporty daily driver, at the current price it's difficult to beat it.
When I took the wheel, I'd been daily-driving in a mid 90's Chevy throttle body injected truck. Getting up to speed on an onramp requires matting the pedal. I instinctively did that in the Camaro.
As I dropped back down from instant warp speed, the first cogent thought my brain could muster was that this is not the Camaro RS you see in the nickel trader being offered for $1,000 cash or a four wheeler; it doesn't have seats skinned in mousefur, it doesn't have a miserable 160ish horsepower V6 and it doesn't have a stonking girder for a drive axle - This, despite looking somewhat like a first generation Camaro, is a competent world-class sports car.
This is because it's based on a chassis designed by the Australians and has things like multilink independent rear suspension, Brembo brakes, and a 305 hp 3.6L Dual Overhead Cam Direct Injected V6 that also serves duty in the Cadillac CTS.
Weighing in at a solid 3800 lbs, it's not a lightweight, but driving it, it really doesn't feel as heavy as it is. Turn in is sharp, and the handling is neutral although with the traction control off it's very easy to get the rear end to step out if adequately coerced with the throttle.
Driven like a sane human being in mixed city and freeway driving, it averaged 27 mpg. Pause and consider, for a moment, that the last generation LT1 V8 Camaro produced 20 less horsepower and with an automatic might average 20 mpg. We've come a long way.
While I did enjoy this car thorougly, I did have a few sore points with it.
I didn't really find the small windows to be a problem, but the rear visibility is somewhat unworkable. While driving, this is not a huge deal; drop the loud pedal and if there was something lurking behind the massive B-pillar it certainly would no longer be there after several seconds. It is, however, a problem when reversing out of parking spaces on city streets. You can't see anything, and the mirrors are tiny.
Secondarily, while the high beltline certainly adds a rakish look to the car's profile, it completely inhibits the main thing you should be able to do when driving a Camaro which is driving around with your arm out the window looking tough. It's hard to look tough when your elbow's pointed skyward and your shoulder is nearly popped out of socket.
My final beef, and for me the most important one, is with the engine. As I mentioned, it moves the car with effortless aplomb, and in terms of powerband and feel it is more than adequate to the task. The thing that ruins it all, in my opinion, is that for all the rakish hot-rod looks, the wonderful handling and the excellent interior, is that when you stand on the gas it sounds like a late model Nissan Z car. This is because it's a V6, and because of things like firing order and crankshaft design there is nothing... NOTHING that can be done to make it sound like it belongs in a car that looks as uniquely American as the new Camaro. For some people this will not be a problem, but every time I hit the throttle it felt like I was looking at Jessica Simpson redubbed with an Japanese schoolgirl voice. Off putting.
Had GM, for example, put the 5.3L displacement on demand LS4 V8 from the Impala SS in it, they would have had roughly the same fuel economy and by Goshen it woulda sounded right.
Anime voice notwithstanding, however, the new Camaro is truly a world class piece of machinery. If you're in the market for a sporty daily driver, at the current price it's difficult to beat it.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Gentlemen, Start Your Torrents
Season 18 of Top Gear has just started.
You're welcome.
....What? No I'm not going to give you a blasted link, go find one yourself! It's probably on Youtube or something by now, it shouldn't be that hard. It's only the most popular motoring program in the WORLD...
You're welcome.
....What? No I'm not going to give you a blasted link, go find one yourself! It's probably on Youtube or something by now, it shouldn't be that hard. It's only the most popular motoring program in the WORLD...
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Pet Peeve #742: Rolling Garbage Cans
Everyone knows someone like this. Everyone's seen a car like this. You look in the window, and you can't find the seats. Or the carpet. The car has been turned into a mobile trash bin. Burger wrappers, empty cigarette packs, empty cans, dead hookers and other detritus fills the cabin to the point you wonder how the owner manages to drive that thing around safely.
I consider my interior dirty when there's a stray drink straw wrapper in the cup holder. I don't understand how anyone can let a car go like that and just fill it with trash. Take my friend for example. He drives a 1993 Subaru (which already has one foot in the grave). Not only does he do the bare minimum to keep the car roadworthy, but the car is ALWAYS filled with trash. He never cleans it. He never washes it. And because he's a 2 pack a day chain smoker, the car reeks of stale tobacco constantly.
I had another friend with an old Sunbird whose car was so full of trash, the only usable seat was the driver's seat. The rest were filled with garbage. Yes, even the trunk was stuffed with crap.
I don't know how anyone can mistreat a car like that. And not only is this filthy, it's a safety hazard. In an accident those bottles and cans floating around the backseat will turn into projectiles, and that won't be fun for anybody.
People, please keep your cars clean. Or at least keep your junk in the trunk.
I consider my interior dirty when there's a stray drink straw wrapper in the cup holder. I don't understand how anyone can let a car go like that and just fill it with trash. Take my friend for example. He drives a 1993 Subaru (which already has one foot in the grave). Not only does he do the bare minimum to keep the car roadworthy, but the car is ALWAYS filled with trash. He never cleans it. He never washes it. And because he's a 2 pack a day chain smoker, the car reeks of stale tobacco constantly.
I had another friend with an old Sunbird whose car was so full of trash, the only usable seat was the driver's seat. The rest were filled with garbage. Yes, even the trunk was stuffed with crap.
I don't know how anyone can mistreat a car like that. And not only is this filthy, it's a safety hazard. In an accident those bottles and cans floating around the backseat will turn into projectiles, and that won't be fun for anybody.
People, please keep your cars clean. Or at least keep your junk in the trunk.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Welterweights: Honorable Mentions
I figured that there should be some wrap up for the c-segment, and I wanted to offer my take on some of the other competition out there.
2012 Honda Civic
Seen here in the Si Guise, the Civic has always been a solid performer in the C-segment. The current styling is more evolutionary than revolutionary. I've only driven the previous generation, but according to more folks, the car is much the same as the previous generation, though the Si is less rev-happy in the interest of being more fuel efficient. I did get a chance to sit in one at the recent Silicon Valley Auto Show, and I found the interior to be very contemporary, almost futuristic. In short: worth your time, but there may be better options out there.
2012 Hyundai Elantra
I haven't driven one, but it's a very handsome car, and for the money, you can get a lot of value for your money. The high end runs about $20k, but with that, you get satellite radio, heated front AND rear leather seats, and a list of options as long as your arm. Bottom Line: If passenger comfort is your goal, this is probably your best bet.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Seen here in the GLI trim, the new Jetta is another solid, if large, performer in the c-segment. Sporting German heritage and styling, this is a solid performer. Some problems: in the base segments, the rear suspension is torsion beam rather than multi-link as in previous Jettas (though the multi-link is standard in the GLI). This gives the car a slightly less perky demeanor than in previous generations. Bottom Line: Go for the TDI or the GLI. Don't bother with the baseline.
2012 Ford Focus
Think of this as the American 2nd cousin to the Mazda3 (or vice versa), the new Focus is a great thing for the American market. Available in 4 door sedan or 5 door hatch, new styling, and a great driving dynamic, the new Focus is a little softer than its distant Mazda relation, but may be a better balance for comfort.
Bottom Line: If the general Focii are too tame for you, wait for the upcoming Focus ST. The hairy chested version of the Focus should be good for 250+ horsepower.
All in all, there are plenty of great options out there in the C-Segment. The Trick is finding one right for you.
2012 Honda Civic
Seen here in the Si Guise, the Civic has always been a solid performer in the C-segment. The current styling is more evolutionary than revolutionary. I've only driven the previous generation, but according to more folks, the car is much the same as the previous generation, though the Si is less rev-happy in the interest of being more fuel efficient. I did get a chance to sit in one at the recent Silicon Valley Auto Show, and I found the interior to be very contemporary, almost futuristic. In short: worth your time, but there may be better options out there.
2012 Hyundai Elantra
I haven't driven one, but it's a very handsome car, and for the money, you can get a lot of value for your money. The high end runs about $20k, but with that, you get satellite radio, heated front AND rear leather seats, and a list of options as long as your arm. Bottom Line: If passenger comfort is your goal, this is probably your best bet.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Seen here in the GLI trim, the new Jetta is another solid, if large, performer in the c-segment. Sporting German heritage and styling, this is a solid performer. Some problems: in the base segments, the rear suspension is torsion beam rather than multi-link as in previous Jettas (though the multi-link is standard in the GLI). This gives the car a slightly less perky demeanor than in previous generations. Bottom Line: Go for the TDI or the GLI. Don't bother with the baseline.
2012 Ford Focus
Think of this as the American 2nd cousin to the Mazda3 (or vice versa), the new Focus is a great thing for the American market. Available in 4 door sedan or 5 door hatch, new styling, and a great driving dynamic, the new Focus is a little softer than its distant Mazda relation, but may be a better balance for comfort.
Bottom Line: If the general Focii are too tame for you, wait for the upcoming Focus ST. The hairy chested version of the Focus should be good for 250+ horsepower.
All in all, there are plenty of great options out there in the C-Segment. The Trick is finding one right for you.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
This is why you don't steal someone's parking space.
Taken, I'm guessing, in China somewhere (based on the language).
You know, after seeing this it no longer surprises me how they get all that food into those tiny little containers.
Youtube
You know, after seeing this it no longer surprises me how they get all that food into those tiny little containers.
Youtube
Saturday, January 14, 2012
A Brief Thought on Winter
You know, the winter weather season is a good time to save money on gas. At least it is for me.
Why? Well it does get rather cold up here, and we get our fair share of snow. On the one hand you'd think we'd waste gas warming up cars so they thaw out, but in reality I burn a lot less fuel during the winter than the summer. This is mostly due to driving less often in the first place.
Now keep in mind I was raised in this kind of weather. Driving in the snow doesn't really bother me. The problem comes when I have to clean off the car. Simply put I'm just too damn lazy to clear off the car and go for a random drive. Until I suddenly have to. Then I spend half an hour cleaning off 5 days worth of snow and ice...
Why? Well it does get rather cold up here, and we get our fair share of snow. On the one hand you'd think we'd waste gas warming up cars so they thaw out, but in reality I burn a lot less fuel during the winter than the summer. This is mostly due to driving less often in the first place.
Now keep in mind I was raised in this kind of weather. Driving in the snow doesn't really bother me. The problem comes when I have to clean off the car. Simply put I'm just too damn lazy to clear off the car and go for a random drive. Until I suddenly have to. Then I spend half an hour cleaning off 5 days worth of snow and ice...
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Welterweights, Pt 6
Well, here we are. 1st place. I'll bet you're dying to know what it is.
1st Place: Mazda3
I know what you're thinking. "WHY SO SERIOUS?" Joker grin aside, this little car has enough going for it to put a grin on your face.
For starters, let's talk about this car's pedigree. Mazda is one of the few car companies out there that makes its mission to have every car it makes be fun to drive. Not just the sport models. Every.
Car.
This is where their "Zoom Zoom" philosophy comes from, and if you make that big of a claim, you better be able to back it up. And this little car is key to doing that.
First, let's talk engines: buyers have a choice of a 2.0 I4 with 148 horsepower, their new 2.0 liter Skyactiv system (more on that later) with 155 horsepower, a 2.5Liter I4 at 164 horsepower, and for the crazies, you have the Mazdaspeed3,with a turbocharged 2.3 liter I4 good for a whopping 263 horsepower. Transmissions are also varied, with five speed autos and manuals for the regular 2.0 liter and 2.5, while the Skyactiv engines and the supercharged 2.3 come with a six speeds.
In all versions, the suspension is firm without being harsh, and cornering offers very little body roll. At all speeds the car feels planted, with no dead spot on steering. Turn in can be aggressive for those not used to it, but that's good for a pocket sized driver's car.
Pricing is right on the money too. You can have one for as little as $15,200, which is spartan, but comes with plenty of spunk. At the high end, you'll run about $25,000, and there you have the choice of either the high end trim (Grand Touring) or you can get yourself a Mazdaspeed3. Both levels are nicely appointed.
You can have the car as either a sedan or a hatchback (though the Mazdaspeed3 is hatchback only). It should be noted that the hatchback starts off at about $19k, although at that level the base engine is the Skyactiv or the 2.5 liter. Plus it has more starting features, such as Bluetooth.
By now, you're probably wondering what this Skyactiv stuff is all about.
Essentially, it's Mazda's new approach to having not only fuel efficient cars, but fun ones as well. The 2012 Mazda3 is the first of Mazda's cars to implement these initiatives in a mid cycle refresh. (The first full Skyactiv Mazda is their brand new CX-5, which you can see photos of in my earlier post at the Silicon Valley Auto Show). What does this mean for the Mazda3?
40 mpg, ladies and gentlemen. Now you can have your cake and eat it too.
The weak points? Well, the interior is plastic-y, and while the steering wheel buttons are easy to get to, they are a little small. At some of the lower trims, the materials feel a little cheap. Plus, the rear passenger leg-room isn't much unless you're a kid.
And a lot of you are probably still staring in disbelief at that goofy grin on the front.
But when you're talking about entertainment value for your money, and having a car that will last you a long while, look no further.
Driver's Pick: Any of them, really, but if you can, shell out the extra cash for one of the Skyactiv engines.
1st Place: Mazda3
I know what you're thinking. "WHY SO SERIOUS?" Joker grin aside, this little car has enough going for it to put a grin on your face.
For starters, let's talk about this car's pedigree. Mazda is one of the few car companies out there that makes its mission to have every car it makes be fun to drive. Not just the sport models. Every.
Car.
This is where their "Zoom Zoom" philosophy comes from, and if you make that big of a claim, you better be able to back it up. And this little car is key to doing that.
First, let's talk engines: buyers have a choice of a 2.0 I4 with 148 horsepower, their new 2.0 liter Skyactiv system (more on that later) with 155 horsepower, a 2.5Liter I4 at 164 horsepower, and for the crazies, you have the Mazdaspeed3,with a turbocharged 2.3 liter I4 good for a whopping 263 horsepower. Transmissions are also varied, with five speed autos and manuals for the regular 2.0 liter and 2.5, while the Skyactiv engines and the supercharged 2.3 come with a six speeds.
In all versions, the suspension is firm without being harsh, and cornering offers very little body roll. At all speeds the car feels planted, with no dead spot on steering. Turn in can be aggressive for those not used to it, but that's good for a pocket sized driver's car.
Pricing is right on the money too. You can have one for as little as $15,200, which is spartan, but comes with plenty of spunk. At the high end, you'll run about $25,000, and there you have the choice of either the high end trim (Grand Touring) or you can get yourself a Mazdaspeed3. Both levels are nicely appointed.
You can have the car as either a sedan or a hatchback (though the Mazdaspeed3 is hatchback only). It should be noted that the hatchback starts off at about $19k, although at that level the base engine is the Skyactiv or the 2.5 liter. Plus it has more starting features, such as Bluetooth.
By now, you're probably wondering what this Skyactiv stuff is all about.
Essentially, it's Mazda's new approach to having not only fuel efficient cars, but fun ones as well. The 2012 Mazda3 is the first of Mazda's cars to implement these initiatives in a mid cycle refresh. (The first full Skyactiv Mazda is their brand new CX-5, which you can see photos of in my earlier post at the Silicon Valley Auto Show). What does this mean for the Mazda3?
40 mpg, ladies and gentlemen. Now you can have your cake and eat it too.
The weak points? Well, the interior is plastic-y, and while the steering wheel buttons are easy to get to, they are a little small. At some of the lower trims, the materials feel a little cheap. Plus, the rear passenger leg-room isn't much unless you're a kid.
And a lot of you are probably still staring in disbelief at that goofy grin on the front.
But when you're talking about entertainment value for your money, and having a car that will last you a long while, look no further.
Driver's Pick: Any of them, really, but if you can, shell out the extra cash for one of the Skyactiv engines.
Monday, January 9, 2012
This is the Chevy Code 130R Concept
You saw it here first! ...unless you went to one of the other auto blog sites before you came here.
Chevy kept a tight lid on this little bugger. Nobody knew what it was or what it looked like until today. So here's the details. Chevy polled a bunch of 20-somethings all over the country and asked them what they wanted in a car. This is what they asked for. It's a compact, rear wheel drive coupe with a 150HP 1.4L turbo four and manual transmission. It'll also have GM's eAssist system for marginally better fuel economy as well. Pricing? GM estimates they could sell it for the low to mid $20,000s, if they decide to build it. Frankly I'd like to see a few more ponies out of this if they do. If it's got around 200HP, it'd be a solid competitor to the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ. Otherwise? I'm afraid it's just not quick enough for that kind of money.
So GM..are you listening? BUILD IT. We've told you we want it so build it. And ditch the name. Call it a Nova.
This is the 2013 Ford Fusion
Well there it is.
....What? Oh you want to know more, do you? All right. The '13 Fusion for the US gets a whole new platform, now shared with the Euro market Ford Mondeo. This is part of Ford's effort to globalize as many of its cars as possible. This can only be a good thing for us Americans, as the Mondeo has been praised as a great driver's car over in Europe.
The part you're likely all interested in is what's under the hood. In that regard you've got a few choices to make. Actually a lot of choices to make. The base motivator is carryover from 2012--a 2.5L DOHC four making 170HP and 170lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. There's a hyper-efficient gas option, which pairs a 1.6L Ecoboost four with a 6-speed stick. Yeah you read that right, the Fusion is getting it's shift back. The good news? With 179HP and 172lb-ft of torque, the eco-ride won't be a snooze-fest. The better news? You get a mid-size sedan with an estimated 37 MPG on the highway--the best of any nonhybrid in its class. The top of the line engine is a 2.0L Ecoboost making 237HP and 250lb-ft of torque, but it's only available with the slushbox. AWD is also available for the top-line Fusion, making what's likely already a sure-footed car even more planted to the road.
Hang on, I'm not done yet with powertrain options. Let it never be said Ford doesn't give the customer a choice. The Fusion will also keep its hybrid option. Paired with a 2.0L non-turbo four (no official HP figures as of yet) the Fusion Hybrid will get up to 47 MPG highway. That's better than the Prius, with more interior room, much better looks and a whole lot less smug. And I'm STILL not done, as a plug-in hybrid system is also going to be offered--though details like battery pack size and EV-only range haven't been released yet.
Yes, the V6 is gone. It was ditched to give the Fusion some breathing room between it and the uplevel Taurus. I don't see this as a big deal however. The Malibu is ditching its V6 option, and I'd imagine more mid-size sedans will follow suit if gas prices keep going up.
Look for the Fusion on dealer lots later this Fall.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Covering the Silicon Valley Auto Show
We DID have boots on the ground for the Silicon Valley Auto Show (namely, mine and my toddler son's) and we're gonna do our best to give you some of the highlights of the show.
Above is a Lamborghini Gallardo provided by Club Sportiva (think of them as a high end sports car sharing company. One of the few cars that looks good in yellow.
Look out! It's Godzilla! The Nissan GT-R is one of the hottest cars on the market, and one of my all time faves.
The legendary BMW M3. Long the gold standard of the luxury sport sedan market, this specimen was dressed in a matte black paint job that looked absolutely stunning.
Fiat had a selection of their 500's to peruse. The best looking in my opinion was this 500 Sport in Nero paint with a Nero interior. Amazingly, I was able to fit all 6'1", 240 lbs of me in the back seats. Note the tachometer inside the spedometer. Nicely laid out.
This is the cockpit of the new 2012 VW GTI, the great granddaddy of the Hot Hatchback. Like the rest of the car, the interior was refined. Spartan (and for some reason missing a piece of the bottom part of the steering wheel), but highly functional. Plus, I like the fact that they offer it with a dual clutch and flappy paddles.
Practically dripping with retro charm, this 2012 Challenger SRT-8 is one of my personal favorites of the current muscle car offering. Sadly, most of the car's lesser guises are too heavy for the engines currently mounted in them. But it's so charming you won't care if it farts in bed and picks its nose. This is a cool car.
(Does not include booth babe).
The two above pictures show the exterior and interior of Mazda's Mazdaspeed3, probably the best answer to the GTI. As you can see, the interior is a little busier and the styling is pure boy-racer. Then again, it's got 60 more horsepower than the GTI, and more torque. This is another one of the cars on my personal "short list" of cars to own.
Another new showing from Mazda, this is their all-new CX-5. While it's not the first Mazda vehicle to feature their patented Skyactiv technology (supposed to deliver better fuel performance without sacrificing performance integrity), the CX-5 is the first vehicle to be designed with Skyactiv from the ground up. Sadly, since this was one of only 2 actual vehicles stateside, we weren't able to tour it.
Finally, the Mazda MX-5 (aka the Miata). The roadster reborn, there's little that can be said about this car that hasn't already been written, save that I can actually fit my bulky self in there.
Barely. But I can.
One of the best selling rally-cars around, this is the 2011 Subaru WRX. Featuring a blown H4 flat Boxer engine good for 260 horsepower and all wheel drive, the WRX is a potent vehicle. Below is the interior for the hotrodded WRX STi. Sadly, Subaru were unable to ship the all new BRZ for their show, but if they had, you'd bet your tail we'd be all over it.
Seen here is part of the vaunted Hyundai Genesis Coupe. And a hefty guy. This variant has a 3.8 liter V-6 good for 306 horsepower, rear wheel drive, and a very tasteful interior with good visibility. Note on the interior the blue screen at the top of the center console. Not only does it show your average fuel economy, but peak torque too. Flappy paddles round out the performance pedigree for this vaunted coupe. A note for taller passengers though: don't expect to fit in the back seat unless you are under the age of 14, are a little person, or have somehow cut off your head and legs.
One of the more unusual showings from the korean company is the new Hyundai Veloster. This odd little 3 door hatchback has something endearing about it. Whether it's the odd third door on the passenger's side, the available six-speed dual clutch transmission, the plethora of technology or the fuel economy, this baby's a compelling little vehicle. Sadly, most reports come in that it's a little underpowered, so keep your eyes peeled for a turbocharged variant later this year.
We had a celebrity here at the auto show. This Camaro SS dressed up in its movie-star persona (complete with Autobot symbols), this is another great muscle car. It does have its faults (little visibility, for one, and somewhat questionable ergonomics for another) but is still a great car.
We're pretty sure here that Bruce Wayne would have at least one of these to drive to work or through the hills above Gotham when he's not kicking various supervillians. This is not just the CTS coupe, it's the CTS-V. What does that mean? Well, how does a 556 horsepower supercharged v-8 sound to you? Note that there are no exterior door handles. This car is entirely keyless. What's that you say? You need more space than a coupe? Well, we have the answer to that below.
Who doesn't like a little swagger wagon? Same engine as the other CTS-V's, this one has an extra bit on the end, so after you're done running around with your hair on fire, you can make the run to Home Depot and finish the honey-do list.
Seen here is the all new Fisker Karma. What is there to be said about this car? Well, for starters, it produces a monstrous amount of horsepower. Granted, this is sort of a "feel good" car for the rich and famous (the wood they use is rescued from underwater, for instance). However, there's a good indicator for what's going to be available for the average consumer. And it is a very striking vehicle.
Rolls Royce Ghost. Not many details on this one. This is the sort of car you buy to be driven around in, not to drive.
The Lotus Evora. Marketed as the softer, more civilized Lotus sports car, it's not as hard edged and sharp as the Elise. It is, however, slightly more practical (rear seats anyone?).
At one time, the McLaren F1 was the fastest car in the world at 240 miles an hour. And if you want to, you can purchase it's proud and handsome grandson pictured here. Sure, it's not going to beat a Bugatti Veyron, but a) where are you going to take it where that will be an issue? and b) the only people who care are going to be your fellow snobs at the country club.
A Gallardo Spyder. The Gallardo is getting long in the tooth, but until the Aventador comes out, it's more or less our only choice. Then again, it's good looking, and it's fast enough to smoke just about anything else on the road.
The Jaguar XF. The replacement for the old S-type. This is probably one of the more distinctive luxury sport sedans on the market. And it has a real sense of occasion about it. I intend to cover this car in greater detail in another post because it truly deserves it.
Pictured above are the exterior, dashboard, and gadget tray of the Kia Forte Koup. This is arguably the sportiest guise for the Forte. I am pleased to report that for this new generation, the plastics in the cockpit, while still hard, certainly feel less cheap than the previous iteration. However, this isn't the only sporty offering from Kia.
This is one such offering. This is the Kia Optima. It's a handsome car, this. Sporting a turbo-charged 4 cylinder engine and striking styling evocative of Audi and Volkswagen, the car makes a compelling case for itself. Additionally, the materials inside have an upscale feel to them, offering good value for the average consumer.
This is another sporting offering from Kia. The Sportage Turbo with AWD offers similar performance for the Optima, but with an AWD crossover twist for those of you who don't like sedans. The upscale materials persist in this car as well, and the cockpit sports plenty of room for 4 adults.
That's all for now. I'll be posting more of these photos as the week goes on. I don't want to saturate you all too much.
Above is a Lamborghini Gallardo provided by Club Sportiva (think of them as a high end sports car sharing company. One of the few cars that looks good in yellow.
Look out! It's Godzilla! The Nissan GT-R is one of the hottest cars on the market, and one of my all time faves.
The legendary BMW M3. Long the gold standard of the luxury sport sedan market, this specimen was dressed in a matte black paint job that looked absolutely stunning.
Fiat had a selection of their 500's to peruse. The best looking in my opinion was this 500 Sport in Nero paint with a Nero interior. Amazingly, I was able to fit all 6'1", 240 lbs of me in the back seats. Note the tachometer inside the spedometer. Nicely laid out.
This is the cockpit of the new 2012 VW GTI, the great granddaddy of the Hot Hatchback. Like the rest of the car, the interior was refined. Spartan (and for some reason missing a piece of the bottom part of the steering wheel), but highly functional. Plus, I like the fact that they offer it with a dual clutch and flappy paddles.
Practically dripping with retro charm, this 2012 Challenger SRT-8 is one of my personal favorites of the current muscle car offering. Sadly, most of the car's lesser guises are too heavy for the engines currently mounted in them. But it's so charming you won't care if it farts in bed and picks its nose. This is a cool car.
(Does not include booth babe).
The two above pictures show the exterior and interior of Mazda's Mazdaspeed3, probably the best answer to the GTI. As you can see, the interior is a little busier and the styling is pure boy-racer. Then again, it's got 60 more horsepower than the GTI, and more torque. This is another one of the cars on my personal "short list" of cars to own.
Another new showing from Mazda, this is their all-new CX-5. While it's not the first Mazda vehicle to feature their patented Skyactiv technology (supposed to deliver better fuel performance without sacrificing performance integrity), the CX-5 is the first vehicle to be designed with Skyactiv from the ground up. Sadly, since this was one of only 2 actual vehicles stateside, we weren't able to tour it.
Finally, the Mazda MX-5 (aka the Miata). The roadster reborn, there's little that can be said about this car that hasn't already been written, save that I can actually fit my bulky self in there.
Barely. But I can.
One of the best selling rally-cars around, this is the 2011 Subaru WRX. Featuring a blown H4 flat Boxer engine good for 260 horsepower and all wheel drive, the WRX is a potent vehicle. Below is the interior for the hotrodded WRX STi. Sadly, Subaru were unable to ship the all new BRZ for their show, but if they had, you'd bet your tail we'd be all over it.
Seen here is part of the vaunted Hyundai Genesis Coupe. And a hefty guy. This variant has a 3.8 liter V-6 good for 306 horsepower, rear wheel drive, and a very tasteful interior with good visibility. Note on the interior the blue screen at the top of the center console. Not only does it show your average fuel economy, but peak torque too. Flappy paddles round out the performance pedigree for this vaunted coupe. A note for taller passengers though: don't expect to fit in the back seat unless you are under the age of 14, are a little person, or have somehow cut off your head and legs.
One of the more unusual showings from the korean company is the new Hyundai Veloster. This odd little 3 door hatchback has something endearing about it. Whether it's the odd third door on the passenger's side, the available six-speed dual clutch transmission, the plethora of technology or the fuel economy, this baby's a compelling little vehicle. Sadly, most reports come in that it's a little underpowered, so keep your eyes peeled for a turbocharged variant later this year.
We had a celebrity here at the auto show. This Camaro SS dressed up in its movie-star persona (complete with Autobot symbols), this is another great muscle car. It does have its faults (little visibility, for one, and somewhat questionable ergonomics for another) but is still a great car.
We're pretty sure here that Bruce Wayne would have at least one of these to drive to work or through the hills above Gotham when he's not kicking various supervillians. This is not just the CTS coupe, it's the CTS-V. What does that mean? Well, how does a 556 horsepower supercharged v-8 sound to you? Note that there are no exterior door handles. This car is entirely keyless. What's that you say? You need more space than a coupe? Well, we have the answer to that below.
Who doesn't like a little swagger wagon? Same engine as the other CTS-V's, this one has an extra bit on the end, so after you're done running around with your hair on fire, you can make the run to Home Depot and finish the honey-do list.
Seen here is the all new Fisker Karma. What is there to be said about this car? Well, for starters, it produces a monstrous amount of horsepower. Granted, this is sort of a "feel good" car for the rich and famous (the wood they use is rescued from underwater, for instance). However, there's a good indicator for what's going to be available for the average consumer. And it is a very striking vehicle.
Rolls Royce Ghost. Not many details on this one. This is the sort of car you buy to be driven around in, not to drive.
The Lotus Evora. Marketed as the softer, more civilized Lotus sports car, it's not as hard edged and sharp as the Elise. It is, however, slightly more practical (rear seats anyone?).
At one time, the McLaren F1 was the fastest car in the world at 240 miles an hour. And if you want to, you can purchase it's proud and handsome grandson pictured here. Sure, it's not going to beat a Bugatti Veyron, but a) where are you going to take it where that will be an issue? and b) the only people who care are going to be your fellow snobs at the country club.
A Gallardo Spyder. The Gallardo is getting long in the tooth, but until the Aventador comes out, it's more or less our only choice. Then again, it's good looking, and it's fast enough to smoke just about anything else on the road.
The Jaguar XF. The replacement for the old S-type. This is probably one of the more distinctive luxury sport sedans on the market. And it has a real sense of occasion about it. I intend to cover this car in greater detail in another post because it truly deserves it.
Pictured above are the exterior, dashboard, and gadget tray of the Kia Forte Koup. This is arguably the sportiest guise for the Forte. I am pleased to report that for this new generation, the plastics in the cockpit, while still hard, certainly feel less cheap than the previous iteration. However, this isn't the only sporty offering from Kia.
This is one such offering. This is the Kia Optima. It's a handsome car, this. Sporting a turbo-charged 4 cylinder engine and striking styling evocative of Audi and Volkswagen, the car makes a compelling case for itself. Additionally, the materials inside have an upscale feel to them, offering good value for the average consumer.
This is another sporting offering from Kia. The Sportage Turbo with AWD offers similar performance for the Optima, but with an AWD crossover twist for those of you who don't like sedans. The upscale materials persist in this car as well, and the cockpit sports plenty of room for 4 adults.
That's all for now. I'll be posting more of these photos as the week goes on. I don't want to saturate you all too much.
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