I don't like cars... I love 'em!

Revival of the Classic Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 15:43:00 +0000

Tight-fit pants, beehive hairstyle, and retro-looking cars are some of the few that has been tagged as the "in" thing recently. You know what they say about fashion -- it is like a wheel. It revolves its way back.

MINI COOPER

The Mini Cooper has been out since 2002 and has instantly become a big hit. The target demographic is around 20s-30s. Surprisingly, you also see mom, middle-aged people and even grandparents driving them! I think it is probably because it reminds them of their first car, and of course, they are the one who can afford the price. For a tiny car, the Mini isn't cheap. But it is cool, funky, high-tech, fun to drive and you can customize it to suite your taste. As the Mini website says, there are no 2 Minis alike. You can customize it from the body and roof color, side mirror color/design to steering wheel, pedals and seat cover design. My friend has the Mini Cooper S (S for sport) and it is surprisingly spacious inside, at least in the front). The back seat is best reserved for kids or people like me who are below 5'7". Yet it is still usable and good enough for short-distance travel. The retro look continuous from the outside to the inside with its classic console design. It has a big center-mounted speedometer with chrome outline and old-fashioned pull-up/down switches. But that is where the "old" ends. It is equipped with all the modern gizmos you could think off -- traction control, ABS, power doors/windows/side mirrors, keyless entry, run-flat tires, optional navigation system and panoramic moonroof to name just a few. It has brought a cult-like following with countless online forums and groups across the country and abroad.

Unfortunately, the Mini has been plagued with a lot of problems particularly the earlier models. From transmission, brake, body integrity to small pieces falling off. Luckily, BMW -- the company that owns the Mini -- backs up their cars with 4yr/50,000mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. And being BMW, they have committed themselves in correcting and improving every problem so much so that Consumer Reports Magazine has removed the Mini from "cars to avoid" to "recommended" for model year 2007.

For 2008, Mini has redesigned this much-loved car. It has grown a little but it has kept its distinct shape and style.

MINI COOPER CLUBMAN

The Clubman is sort-of-a-wagon car is an extended version of the Mini with squared-off back end with panel truck style door and a rear-seat access doorlet on the right side similar to the rear-hinged doors found on Mazda RX-8. This extra length and suicide doors added to the usefulness of the back seat. I don't know about the split rear hatch though. It seems to me that it is more for style than practicality. For one, it takes two hands to open them both, and the split it middle creates a distraction and construed rear visibility when driving. Frankly, I am not sold on the Clubman idea at all. I think it is an attempt of BMW to branch off and extend their market by revamping their only bread and butter. Kinda like the Smart ForTwo creating a ForFour which sadly just didn't sell.

VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE

This was my second car and I loved it. I had the black New Beetle with, yes, the flower on the dash.

The Volkswagen New Beetle is fun to drive, it has that look that makes you want to smile and grabs attention wherever you go. Its cute styling revolves around circles from its round shape body and curved fenders to circular AC vents and instrument cluster. A few years after, Volkswagen introduced the New Beetle Convertible. Now on its 10th year of production, we have yet to see a full redesign of the bug.

CHRYSLER PT CRUISER

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is the ultimate in retro styling. It is reminiscent of cars from the early 50's built by Ford. Did you notice that all the cars then were painted black? Luckily, the PT Cruiser is available in various colors from the usual black, white and silver to vibrant colors like yellow and orange. "PT" stands for Personal Transport. It was introduced in 2000 as a 2001 model. It instantly became a hit to Americans. In its first 2 years selling more than its MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price). Among the retro cars like the Mini Cooper, and New Beetle, the PT Cruiser is the most spacious, practical and versatile. Why? It has four doors for easy ingress and egress on the back seat. Speaking of back seat, they are actually usable and fits up to 3 adults comfortably. The rear seats fold flat, tumble forward or can even be removed for more cargo space depending on the needs. Passengers seat higher than regular cars, therefore, it has better driving/seating position and visibility both forward and backward. The Consumer Reports Magazine recommends the PT Cruiser for 2007 model year. This means that the car has at least average reliability and meets the safety standard and driving performance set by the non-profit group.

A Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition in Cool Vanilla (white-cream) is now one of two cars in my household (the other is the 07 Mazda Miata MX5 mentioned in previous blogs). Because of sky rocketing fuel prices, which analysts predict will still go up, we have decided to sell our 07 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited. While we love everything about the Santa Fe, a family of 2 plus a dog do not really need a mid-size SUV. We opted for the PT Cruiser over a regular sedan for its hatchback design. It offers the flexibility and cargo space of an SUV without the gas guzzling effect. Our dog is already at home in the back. She jumps inside the cargo area as soon as the rear hatch is opened just like in the Santa Fe. We fitted the back with WeatherTech cargo liner so it will protect the carpet from water, dirt, dog paws and whatnot. A cargo liner is a must to all cars, minivans and SUVs. It is custom-fit to your car so it goes perfectly in your vehicle and you can even choose the color so it matches the interior of your car.

CHEVROLET HHR

The HHR was built by Chevy as a direct competition to the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Since 2001, the PT Cruiser has occupied its own niche. The Chevy HHR was introduced in 2006 as an attempt to cut a slice in the market share of retro cars that the PT was enjoying to itself. The general design is similar to that of the PT. Its a shame it took them so long to come up with a "copy".

Hot and Not So Hot Cars for 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Thu, 15 May 2008 17:58:00 +0000

Starting this summer, we will already be able to see 2009 model year cars to roll out of our friendly car dealerships.

Here's my take on what is HOT and what's not for 2009!!!

HOT!!!

Volvo XC60

This is the smaller version of the much loved XC90. It is sexy, elegant and simply stunning. Volvo is finally playing catch-up with the others. Every car manufacturers that sell SUVs have bigger and smaller versions -- Acura MDX has the baby RDX, BMW X5 has X3, Hyundai Vercruz has Santa Fe, Mazda CX9 has CX7, even Nissan recently introduced the smaller version of Murano, the Rogue.

Honda Fit

I know, i know, you will say, "Already?!" Well, Honda has just introduced this compact hatch in the market about 2 years ago but it has already been sold elsewhere in the world for 6 years. The 2009 model grows a little bit although it still has the distinct shape and versatility that people loved from the 1st generation. I think its cute and very flexible. I'd consider this as my next car. Oops, did I just make an open prediction? ;-)

Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Nice curves, sexy head and brake lights and gorgeous body. It just might be the Mustang killer!

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata gets a refreshening for 2009. The exterior gets some chrome accents while the interior is totally changed. The inside reminds me of a Lexus car. Elegant but not overdone. Rich looking without the hefty price.

Mazda 6

This new family sedan from Mazda is bigger and more powerful than the model it preceded. Mazda is sticking with its round side fenders originally found on the RX8. It can now be found on its entire lineup including the MX-5, CX9, CX7, 3 and the upcoming 6. I think it is sexy!

Toyota Venza

This crossover is very good looking. I particularly like the break lights in the back and the unique body shape. Not a big fan of the front grill although I think it will grow on me. This is based from the Camry.

NOT SO HOT!

Volkswagen Passat CC

VW is joining the four-door-coupe bandwagon started by Mercedes Benz with its CLS. I do not know what they are thinking. Ok, it is sexy, curvacious and simply stunning. Yes, those are positive words. But they are impractical. The CLS only seats 4, it is cramped in the back and it is very hard to get in and out because of the curved roof line trying to achieve the coupe shape. Sometimes it is not all about beauty but practicality and usability too. By the way, how many CLS are there on the road? I rest my case.

Volkswage Routan

The minivan market is over crowded and buyers -- including soccer moms -- are now shifting to crossover SUVs that can carry 7 people and their loads and still look cool. Besides, this is just a rebadge Chrysler minivan. Oh yeah, isn't the Dodge Caravan also a rebadged Chrysler?

Nissan Maxima

What is up with that headlights? I cannot stand it! And I think it has lost its sensual curves and changed into more lines and edges.

Pontiac Solstice Coupe

Yeah, the demand for the Solstice convertible is just overwhelming that they need to give buyers more choices and build a coupe. Do you see Solstice on the street? Exactly.

BMW X6

Its the first ever SUV-coupe. I don't know what they are thinking. Get this! It's a four-seater, coupe shape car in a raised platform so it looks like an SUV. Did you get it? Me either. Coming from BMW, I'm sure its going to be overpriced. It will surely be a head turner but I do not think that is enough reason for it to be a hit. It only seats 4, there is a lot less cargo area than a conventional SUV because of the raked roof line. Yet it will be a gas guzzler because its an SUV therefore there is more drag, it is heavier and has bigger engine.

BIGGER Isn't Always Better!

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:39:00 +0000

Bigger isn't always better! Yes, now car manufacturers are introducing smaller cars like Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Scion XD... and people are buying them! Why not, its easy to park, drives well, and consumes very little gas.

Gas prices has reached its all time high... and it is still rising. As of today (May 8, 2008) national gas price has reached $3.60. Everyone is affected by the ridiculously expensive gas price. To top it all, scientists are also saying that we might even ran out of oil supply in the world.

Car manufacturers are listening to our complains and are reacting to market needs. A lot of car makers now are coming up with their hybrid cars. This spans from cars to big SUVs. We know Toyota is leading the way with their best-selling Prius which they will be re-designing next year with an even more fuel efficient version. Ford has Escape Hybrid, Lexus has RX and GS Hyrbid, General Motors has just introduced the first full-sized hybrid SUV -- the GMC Yukon.

Aside from hybrid vehicles, car manufacturers are also cutting down the production of V8 cars. Now, common who needs that much horse power? I'm sure a lot of men will say "me" but let's face it, how often do you have the chance to speed up more than 80mph? Freeways in my area has speed limit of up to 55 and 60 respectively. So what's the point of having a car that can reach the speed of 200 or more mph?!? Anyway, car manufacturers are scaling down cars that has V8. For example, GM has canceled the replacement of its North-star V8. Therefore, regular Cadillacs will likely be powered by forced-induction V6. Lincoln will no longer equip its cars with V8 engines having committed money to develop better V6. Better yet, some cars are fitting their cars 4 cylinders again -- turbocharged this time. This includes the up-and-coming Hyundai Genesis Coupe and the current Mazda MX5.

By 2020, manufacturers will have to meet a new 35-mpg corporate average fuel economy figure. These developments don't necessarily mean high performance is being sacrificed in lieu of fuel economy. It is not so much about building bigger engines but finding new ways and materials to get the car to weight less, boost its energy, increase performance and use less fuel.

Bigger isn't always better! Bigger engine isn't always better... at least not with soaring high gas prices. I bet Hummer car salesmen are having a hard time pushing their vehicles out of the dealership. Bigger vehicles aren't always better. Europeans are as tall as Americans but they drive tiny cars and they are ok with it. Try to observe the road, most people who drive vehicles are alone in the car, and most of them drive a big truck, SUV or car. It just doesn't make sense!

Consumer Reports Top 10 Picks

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:14:00 +0000

The April issue of the Consumer Reports Magazine is one of the most coveted issue of any car enthusiast. It is the time of the year when the independent-testing organization releases a complete summary on all vehicles sold in the United States. It includes the all-important areas people consider in buying a vehicle: reliability, owner satisfaction, driving behavior, safety and fuel consumption. My favorite is the Top 10 Picks of the year. They choose the best car in 10 vehicle categories that range from small sedan to large pick-up truck.

TOP PICKS: THE BEST MODELS FOR 2008

Small Sedan: Hyundai Elantra SE

The Elantra is a well-rounded small car. It provides good fuel economy, comfortable ride and and interior that is comparable to more highly priced cars in its class like the Honda Civic which was last year's winner in this category. Had the chance to drive this car as a loaner and I was impressed. It is quick, quiet and looks good in and out.

Family Sedan: Honda Accord

This year, Honda introduced the new Accord. It is well-rounded, roomy, very reliable and has very good resale value. The Nissan Altima ranked second in this category. Interesting to note, however, the Toyota Camry is the best selling family sedan in America for a few years now.

Green Car: Toyota Prius

The Prius is the best-selling hybrid car in the world. Hollywood celebrities like Leonardo de Caprio drives this car. This car has been the top pick for environmental car category 5 years in a row.

Pick-Up Truck: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab

It has nice balance between work attributes and livability, including a generous payload rating, comfortable ride, improved interior quality and easy access. The GMC Sienna is virtually identical to the Silverado.

Small SUV: Toyota RAV 4

The RAV 4 was also last year's Top Pick for this category. It has comfortable ride, versatile and delivers very good MPG (miles per gallon). It is available in both 4 cylinder and V6 engine.

Midsized SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe

The second generation Santa Fe outscored the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. It provides a very quiet and roomy interior, excellent fit and finish and refined powertrain, good ride and an optional third row seat. My household has the Limited Edition which has the bigger V6 engine, 5-speed AT, cruise control, leather seating and steering wheel, outside temperature, heated seats, dual climate control, electric height/lumbar controlled seats, dual exhaust with chrome accent, 18" wheels, exterior chrome accent, fog light, sun roof, and spoiler -- all on top of the long list of standard features that the Santa Fe offers. Most of all it offers the best warranty: 5yr/60,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10yr/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. With its competitive pricing, you will just get a midlevel Honda CRV or base Honda Pilot with the money you pay for the fully-equipped Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Ed. Now that's value!

Minivan: Toyota Sienna

Taking this category second year in a row, the Sienna is spacious, quiet and has quality interior. It is the only minivan with an all-wheel drive option. It has very good reliability record.

Upscale Sedan: Infinity G35

The G35 is one of the highest-rated sedans which blends sportiness and luxury. It is available in either rear or all wheel drive. It has excellent powertrain, agile handling, and impressive interior. Overall reliability is expected to be very good.

Luxury Sedan: Lexus LS 460L

Consumer Reports scored this vehicle 99 out of 100 making it the highest rated vehicle. It is extremely quiet, very comfortable ride and seats with quick acceleration and relatively good fuel economy. Plus, this car has all the electronic amenities you could think of. Yes, it can even parallel park itself.

Hyundai has gone a long way... up! It has 2 Top Picks out of 10 (Elantra, Santa Fe). It beat Honda who only have 1 (Accord). Toyota has the most with 3 (Prius, RAV 4, Sienna). Car gurus compare the Korean auto maker with Toyota back in the 80's when they are striving to infiltrate the US market. Look at where Toyota is now! Soon people will not be skeptical to buy a Hyundai. I will not be surprised if it will soon outsell American-made cars like Chrysler, GMC and Ford. They have greatly improved not only in their overall quality but powertrain, warranty and even customer service.

My household has both Top Pick vehicles -- Mazda MM5 and Hyundai Santa Fe. Hey, 2 out of 2 'aint bad! I recommend subscribing to Consumer Reports Magazine. They provide unbiased, independent and scientific testing on just about every consumer product in the market... including cars. If you want great value for your money and only the best for your family, you cannot miss an issue of this magazine.

Goodbye... and Hello!

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:51:00 +0000

Everyone's question to me is: Again?!? Yes, I have changed my car... again!

I hate to say the bad news but it was time to say Goodbye! to my Toyota Yaris. No issues with its reliability although I had to visit the dealer for minor Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that lasted for a couple of hours. No issues with cute-factor or attention-grabbing, had plenty of those with this cutie particularly since it just came out and I was the only one in, say 3, that I saw in my area. And definitely no issue with its resale value. Sold it for only $300 less what I paid for it after 8 months/3k miles. Including upgrades and taxes, I only spent around $1,500. It's like I leased the Yaris for 8 moths minus the contract. I had a great time with this tiny hatchback but I felt that it was time to move on... Next!

Spring has sprung! Welcome my new Mazda MX-5 (Miata). This is the third generation of the highly praised, well loved, best selling roadster in the world. Consumer Report Magazine, an independent consumer product testing organization, named the MX-5 the Top Pick for Fun to Drive category. I totally agree with them -- the consumers -- who participated in the survey and scored the MX-5 at the top. In fact, it scored virtually equal to the luxury Porche Boxter that costs almost twice more.

This convertible, like all my previous cars, will be my year-rounder. I thought long and hard if a roadster will do the job for a daily commute to-and-from work in all 4 seasons especially winter. I read blogs and online comments from people who are doing the same. I also considered my previous experience with my older Miata. Of course, you know Ive decided to go on and get a convertible. Here are my rationalization: For one, St. Louis, MO only get about 1-4 inches of snow, 1-3 times of snowfall per year. Also, the snow usually melts in a day or two. At this point, the MX-5 is still totally driveable while being cautious and at low speed. Worse comes worse, snow falls more than the annual average, my household has a 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe which I can use. It will conquer snow with ease (Consumer Report's Top Pick for Mid Size SUV). Second, I only work 3 miles away from home. Third, should I need to haul, ok, more like shop, more than what my MX-5's trunk can accommodate or need to bring more than 1 person, I will take our Santa Fe. Problem solved.

Zoom-zoom! Mazda captures the whole driving experience in this slogan. Kudos to Mazda for coming up with a much improved MX-5. It is totally an upgrade from the previous 2 models. It is faster, bigger, sexier... and did I say fun to drive?! While Mazda has dropped the Miata name, the MX-5 certainly did not fall short retaining its status as the best selling roadster in the world.

What do I look for in a car?

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:27:00 +0000

Cute Factor, Head Turner, Unique, Good Resale Value and Reliable are among the top attributes I look for in a car.

Cute Factor

I tend to go towards cars with round curves than hard edges. I prefer smooth lines than rough corners. Literally, I am attracted to cars that forms a smile (and makes you smile) when you look at the front -- bumber (lips), head lights (eyes). Its like a smiley face. That is evident with my New Beetle, Miata, and Yaris. In essence, I'd choose Infinity G than Cadillac CTS, Miata MX-5 over Z4 (I like the Z3's shape).

Head Turner

There are two reasons people turn head on your car as you pass by. They either say, "Wow, what a nice car!" or "What the heck is that?!" If I'm just being honest, I like getting attention. Hey, who doesn't? Your car is like your house, but goes with you most places, it represents you. Therefore, you always want to show its best. We mow the loan, paint the facade and decorate the exterior. It is the same with car -- we keep it clean, shiny and accessorise with bigger wheels, window tint, spoiler and what not. We want to be noticed by people when we pass by. And it all starts with the kind of car that we pick to drive.

Unique

I like cars that are not common. I like the new body of the Honda Civic but my golly they are everywhere. It seems that there is 1 in ever 5 cars that pass by the road. I don't blame them for buying Honda. Believe me, they have all the RIGHT reasons to choose Honda. I like cars that stands out from the rest. People stop and ask me questions or make nice comments. The New Beetle's unique shape, Miata as a convertible and the Yaris' minute size surely makes people look (stare even).

Resale Value

Unfortunately, cars start to loose their value the moment they roll out the dealership. Considering I change cars very often, in most cases less than a year, I tend to favor cars that have high resale value.

Reliable

Subscribing to Consumer Reports Magazine has been a very wise decision. The provide unbiased reviews on just about everything including vehicles. Buying a car is said to be the 2nd biggest purchase of a person (house is no. 1), it is important to have a car that will perform well and for a long time. This also affects its resale value. There is a direct correlation between reliability and resale value.

Buying A New Car: Is It Really New?

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 10:32:00 +0000

A lot of men (and women) who owns their car are very careful about their priced possession. They meticulously hand wash it, spray it, wax it, polish it, some even spit-shine it. They do not let a spec of dust, a tiny bug or bird dropping land on it. If they notice a small scratch, they take care of it with their repair kit or touch-up paint. It's their baby. They even name it. My question is, How do we know that the same car that we take care off so deeply was treated the same way before we got it?

I do not know if you have heard, the first shipment of 2009 BMW 1-series and M3 coupes hit high seas, literally. The ship carrying the first batch of these sexy coupes to the US hit rough waters and damaged some of the vehicles. The shipment was heading to Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal in New Jersey when it was caught in huge waves. The cars came loose and crashed into each other. The ship contained 370 cars from Europe and BMW of North America estimated some 120 of those coupes were damaged. That is more than 30% of the car shipment! The car company is yet to determine how many will need to be scrapped. And the others that suffered less damage may be repaired and sold. The 1 series and the M3 are supposed to be launched this month (February 08) in our friendly BMW dealers.

This leads me to the question: Are we really buying a "new" car? Sure it may have "0" in its odometer but if they have been damaged in shipment, no matter what extent, doesn't that deem it to be some kind of salvaged? I don't think I like the idea of buying a car with a repaired bumper, door or what not... no matter if it's a luxury car like BMW. I am certain they will make sure it will look as if nothing happened during shipment and that it will be spotless before it goes out of their dealership. But how do we know if no internal malfunction, like electrical short-circuit, will result because of certain body damage?

Yes, it is covered by their 4 year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Warranties, to me, are like insurance. It is definitely good to have one but it's something you do not really want to use. I don't want to get sick even if I know I am covered for medical bills. In the same manner, I certainly would not want to go back and forth to the dealer to repair something. It will cost you time (and in some form, money) to go to the dealer for repairs. Above all, it may even affect the car's credibility, safety and reliability.

I am sure this does not happen a lot. I am certain that cars do not get damaged, scratched, bumped, or mishandled during its course from the time it gets out of the production line, to the ship or train that mass delivers them, to the the 18-wheelers that carries them to our local dealers, and to the personnel that drives them and aligns them neatly at the dealer's lot.

I am certainly not saying that we should not buy new cars. Perhaps I am just over-thinking. Perhaps I am just being pessimistic. All I know is that I am just thinking-out-loud. I know... I know... as long as the car is sparkling new inside-out, with little to no miles, no previous owner, and comes with complete warranties it is considered new.

Related Posts:

American vs Japanese Cars: America Is Finally Catching Up
American Obsession With Size

American Obsession with Size

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:18:00 +0000

America is obsessed with size. While Americans are growing in size... literally, our vehicles are expanding too. It is a fact, our nation is one of the fattest, excuse me, heaviest, people in the world. We constantly stretch our metal to make it wider, longer and bigger.

I have been trying to rationalize why we have been so enamored with huge vehicles. I think I have already made my first observation... the bigger we get, the more we need a car that will fit us. But as if our current cars and SUVs are not big enough? Europeans are almost equal in size. Some are even taller like the Scandinavians and the Brits (average height according to statistics). But have you seen how small their cars? Actually, Europeans even drive smaller cars than Asians who are way shorter in height. So is there a correlation between size of men and the cars they drive? Big Weight = Big Cars?

Maybe it has something to do with our ego as a whole. Media has been feeding our minds with the idea that we are the super power and has the most political influence in the world. It is a common egotistical way of thinking that the "bigger the better".This is not only shown in our vehicles but also in our houses. The all-new Ford F150, Toyota Sequoia, BMW X5, Scion XD, Mini Cooper and Honda Accord have all grown in size than their predecessors. The Mini is not so mini anymore. The Honda Accord is now officially a large sedan according to EPA standards although it still competes and targets buyers of mid-size sedans. Also, V6 is becoming more and more standard (than the 4-cylinder) as we move to V8s and bigger. It's acceptable if we drive big cars because we have a big family (in numbers). But have you noticed that most cars driven on our high ways are usually just carrying 1 or 2 passengers? Big Power = Big Cars?

My third arguement is our spending power. Although our dollars has been losing to the Euro, Yen and Canadian Dollars steadily, it is still safe to say that Americans still have a relatively strong spending power. No one in the world has the capacity to purchase like we do.

The US is the biggest car market in the world (China may get this title in a few years). This is evident in cars that are made solely for the North American market like upcoming Toyota Venza. In the larger scale, Honda introduced the luxury brand Acura and Nissan came up with Infinity to target the North American consumers exclusively. Ironically, Toyota has yet to introduce their upscale Lexus brand to its home country of Japan. Big Money = Big Cars?

Luckily, there is continuous consciousness to save gas and go green. This is evident in the growing number of cars that run on fuel-efficient engines and even hybrid technology. Chevy Tahoe is introducing a hybrid version of their largest SUV. Toyota Prius is selling like pancakes. Smart ForTwo have made its way to the US shores in which Toyota will soon have its counterpart (called IQ). As gas prices sky-rocket and we get more aware with our environment, I think it is time to think small. Smaller car, smaller engine, smaller emission, smaller gas consumption. Come to think of it, the smaller our cars, the smaller our gas consumption, the smaller our trash and the smaller our recycle, in short, smaller impact in our environment. Small Cars = Smaller Cost and Smaller Problems.

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noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:15:00 +0000

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American vs Japanese Cars: America Is Finally Catching Up

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 18:58:00 +0000

When Honda and Toyota decided to bring their cars to the American shore, they were perceived as underpowered, unreliable and unattractive little cars. A few years later, they have proven their worth with well-built and well-designed cars. They are now at the top of the car manufacturing totem pole. Sorta like what Korean cars, particularly Hyundai, is going through as my personal prediction. How ironic, however, that American cars seem to be going the opposite direction... until now.

Welcome Chevrolet Malibu Maxx, Pontiac G6 and upcoming G8, Cadillac CTS, Buick Enclave and the whole Saturn line-up including the upcoming Astra to name a few. Welcome the American come-back! They are day-and-night in terms of design and technology from their predecessors. They are well-designed with quality materials some comes with wood grain like the Chevy Malibu and hand-stitched leather like Cadillac CTS. They have bold looking gauges with cool lights. Technology wise, they now offer navigation system, XM real-time traffic update, OnStar, and hands-free phone. Safety is at par with ABS, traction control and stability control becoming more and more standard than option. They are definitely going on the right direction. Keep it up! I may soon even consider an American car on my next vehicle purchase.

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Unfortunately, there is one American company who seem to have fallen asleep. Have Ford seized to hire designers since Henry Ford's era? Ok, it is the current trend to have exterior chrome accents and side vents but it doesn't mean you have to put it in all your line-up and blind us with all those big shiny metal parts. Take a look at 08 Ford Focus, Mercury Milan, Ford F-150, and Taurus. I just cannot stand Ford's ultra wide chromed front fascia. Talk about overdoing it. And what is up with almost all vehicles having faux side air vents? And yes, they are chromed too. Above all, why do they keep re-freshing their line up (Taurus, Focus, Expedition, Explorer, Escape). They have been due for an overhaul for years. But do you know what I think is the biggest crime? Renaming cars. I view is as trying to play a mind game to the consumers. Our old Taurus sold a lot and was well received might as well rename the Five Hundred with Taurus and the Freestyle as Taurus X. What's next, Escape as Taurus Z? Then they wonder why Detroit cars aren't selling as much as their Japanese counterparts. Go figure!

Related Posts:

Smart ForTwo: Smallest Car in the US
My Love Story with Cars

Smart ForTwo: Smallest Car in the US!

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 08:53:00 +0000

The smallest car in the US today has arrived! The Smart ForTwo is shorter than a Mini Cooper, is street-legal, has rear-mounted engine, comes in either coupe or cabriolet, runs on 3 cylinders, and sits only two! As I mentioned on my previous blog, I am attracted to small cars. Therefore, it is almost given that I give a review about this car.

In January 2008 Smart Fortwo dealers across the continental United States has opened its doors for customers who would like to take a look and buy this tiny car. As early as spring of 2007 people have already started talking about the Smart car. The car company has set a cross-country tour to introduce the Smart ForTwo to people in every city. In November, I was able to test-drive this micro car when it came to Saint Louis.

The Smart ForTwo is small. I mean, really small! This minute car is officially considered a micro car. This is the 2nd generation of the Smart car which has first launched a decade ago in Europe. It has become an instant hit in congested cities in Europe, like Rome and Paris, which are known for narrow streets and tight parking spaces. It was also featured in some Hollywood flicks like The Da Vinci Code and commercials like the Sony Wii. The all-new for 2008 Smart car has grown a little bigger than its predecessor although it's still the size of a golf-cart. The mere dimension of this car will make onlookers go for that second glance... even stare. Its nothing like it in our streets plagued with large sedans and SUVs.

Looking at its exterior, particularly the headlights, you would notice the Mercedes-Benz influence. The body is made of hard plastic panel that is interchangeable. You can literally snap a new color to your car depending on your mood or outfit. Colors include white, black, yellow, blue and red. The tridion cell, the safety cage of the vehicle, comes in silver or black. Aside from the tridion cell, it also boast of other safety features like front and side airbags, ABS, traction control and tire-pressure monitoring system as standard.

On the inside, its surprisingly roomy for two adults. It has amenities like A/C, radio with CD (6-cd changer optional) and sunroof which makes you stop and think you are not riding a golf-cart anymore. The instrument cluster is simple and straight-forward. The center console is reminiscent of Mickey Mouse with its tachometer and clock in small round enclosures that look like Mickey's ears. It has a semi-automatic transmission. You can either switch gear using the shift lever or the paddle shift of the steering wheel on upgraded models.

I looked forward for months to see this car face-to-face. I am a big fan of small cars, as I mentioned on my other blog. As I was approaching the Smart test-drive area, I was really excited. It was as cute as I see it in pictures on the magazine. However, the moment I got closer to it, I got disappointed.

My excitement level immediately dropped as if somebody threw a bucket of ice-cold water over my head. I was mostly disappointed with the fit and finish of the car particularly on the inside. There were a lot of hard, cheap looking and cheap feeling plastic. The radio knobs and A/C switches looks and feels flimsy. The sun visor are made of hard plastic and is too small. The sunroof shade is thin and keeps on coming off the rail. The seats are thinly padded. I thought, ok, well it is not a luxury car but even Kia and Daewoo has far better quality than this car. And it is supposed to be a collaboration between Diamler and Mercedes-Benz? Then there's the warranty. I was not surprised to learn that they are only offering a measly 2-year/ 24,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The officials said its to keep the price low and competitive. I think its because they do not have confidence in their product.

The car I test-drove was the European version but the Smart people said that the US version are pretty much the same. That made me sigh! There is a noticeable lag in the gear changes particularly from 1st to 2nd gear. That would prove frustrating when you make a complete halt on a stop sign. There is also a jerky motion every time you change to a higher gear. Above all, the is a loud whine coming from the engine.

Consumer Reports ranked the Smart ForTwo as the worst car they have ever tested in years. I completely agree. I am completely disappointed with this car. The only two things that this car scored high is its fuel economy and the cute factor.

It would be interesting to see how many Smart cars we would see our streets. I predict that it would be abundant in San Francisco, LA and New York. And that people will buy them more for the look and image it represents than its reliability, craftmanship, or even its fuel economy.

My Love Story with Cars

noreply@blogger.com (Win "The Car Enthusiast") — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:08:00 +0000

I really love cars.

Well, its not like I'm one of a kind in the world.
In fact, it is safe to say that all men are interested in cars. We just vary in intensity from one to another. Women should not be underestimated too. They have a growing command in how manufacturers build our cars of today.

Since this is my first blog, I think its only appropriate to share the list of cars I have owned so far. These are not ultra-expensive exotic cars, not even luxury cars. I am just in my 20's starting in life. These are, for the most part, small and fun cars.

1994 Honda Accord

The first car I've ever known is a 1994 Honda Accord. I bought this four door sedan with 140,000 miles on it. After a year, I sold it to a friend for almost the same price I paid for it. Four years and 60,000 miles more and he is still driving it. They don't call it a Honda for nothing! Japanese cars are well-built, ultra reliable, and it keeps its value!

The New Beetle

Click here Volkswagen New Beetle to see the car
My second car, was my "dream car." (Emphasis on the was, but that's another topic). I had a black VW New Beetle. It is the cutest thing in the planet. I guess I like setting myself apart from the norm. The New Beetle (NB) is definitely an eye-catcher. It's not fast nor reliable nor practical. But it's cute. Its not fast because it is only a four-cylinder engine with less than 120 horse power. It is not reliable.

Consumer Reports, the leading independent consumer product research company, did not recommend the car and rated it with below average reliability (except for the last 2 years, well, they got to make it right after more than half a decade). It is not close to being a practical car. It has only two doors, and the rear seat is very tight in the back-- both leg and head room.

But - it is cute. Did I say that already? It is head-turner. It makes you smile from a mile away. The round shape makes it stand out from the sea of square sedans and SUVs in any parking area. It gives a certain kind of feeling when you look at it in any angle. A happy feeling. It makes your heart beat faster and makes your face muscle contract and produce a smile. J Mood-enhancer, if you will. It's no surprise it has developed almost a cult-like following among NB owners. They have their own website where they exchange messages, experiences and pictures with each other. They are die-hard fans of this German car. How did I know? I was once a member of it too! Common, you can't own a Beetle and not be part of the fraternity.

Mazda Miata MX - 5

Less than a year after, I said goodbye to my baby bug. I wondered how is it like to motor with the top down. Driving down the road with the air blowing on your hair and feel as close to nature as you can while driving -- see the changes of color in spring, hear the birds sing in summer, the cracking of leaves in fall. That's how my marriage with the Mazda Miata MX-5 started.

Being a small-car fanatic, I opted for this two-seater roadster from Japan. I had the white with leather package. This is my first car with automatic transmission. It is quick, nimble, reliable and a lot of fun to drive! Everyday I find myself wanting to drive it more and more. Me and my friend have visited wineries, state parks and the countryside with this little wonder. I cannot wait to get out of the house and go somewhere again and drive. I would sometimes create little errands like a trip to the grocery store to buy, say, a bag of chips. Or go to Mc Donald's to get a large French fries. Or perhaps get a cup of sundae nut fudge custard. Here in St.Louis, we are a big fan of Ted Drew's Frozen Custard. You cannot visit St. Louis without stopping by Ted Drews'!

I am always out-and-about enjoying the world with sun over my head. But I guess nothing is permanent in this world. I had a reality-check come winter time. It was not a completely disappointment driving a convertible with the top up. What's challenging though is driving it in snow. I can almost hear a lot of you say, You don't! But this was my primary vehicle and everyday commute.I am not an upper middle class person that has a convertible as a weekend car.

However, the Miata would not cooperate in snow. Being a very light car with rear wheel drive, it does not stick to the ground. Its ways left and right even on a flat road. Going up or down a hill? Total concentration and perhaps praying is not a bad idea. A friend of mine suggested to put a bag of sand in the trunk for added weight thus better traction. I am not so sure if it helped but I did it anyway. Okay now, I am sure there are a few of you out there, and believe me I have observed, who drives a convertible all-year round and live in an area where it snows. Hey, I survived accident-free during the winter of 2006 which was considered one of the worst in my city's history. Luckily, it doesn't snow a lot in St. Louis compared to other cities in the Midwest or East Coast . We get somewhere between 2-5 times of snow a year and mostly just a couple of inches or so.

The other challenge is brushing off the snow from the soft-top. Unfortunately, I do not have a garage space. Not even a car port. I learned that it is best to remove the snow while it still, well, snow. Once you let it sit there for awhile and it turns into ice, you are done! Patience is the key and jugs of deicer. It was that same winter when I came to my senses and realized that perhaps a convertible is not for me. Perhaps in the future when I have a garage, better yet, if I have a garage to store it for the winter and have another car to drive around in snow.

2007 Toyota Yaris

Six months after, I took ownership of my current car. I got myself a 2007 Toyota Yaris . It is a2-door hatchback with automatic transmission and power package. I upgraded it with all original Toyota accessories like painted splash guard, chrome door sill, arm rest, exhaust tip and spoiler. I also got a set of white sport wheels. And to complete the all-white clean look, I got a metallic window tint.

I know a lot of people will be asking me about it coz it is so different in size. It's one of the smallest car in the road today along with the MiniCooper. But I did not anticipate that people will flock and ask me if it is a hybrid car. Yes, quite a few number of people have stopped and asked me if it is a hybrid. Aside from the usual comment, That's a cute car!, people wants to know how many miles per gallon I get. They are right, the best word I would use to describe this car is cute.

It is like my former car New Beetle that just makes you want to smile when you look at it. In fact, it seems like it is smiling back at you with its head lights like big eyes and front bumper/air intake like a wide smile. But cute is usually associated with small.

TheYaris is anything but. It is surprisingly big inside.It has ample leg room in front, lots of head room evenfor six-footers, ample shoulder room, plenty of storage bins, flexible seating and cargo with its60/40 rear seats and you can actually fit 3 people (I say 2 adults or 3 kids) comfortably in the back. The latter is big of a challenge doing in the New Beetle without cutting their leg circulation or cutting their leg off completely with the Mini Cooper.

No car is perfect. What is my rant about the Yaris? I think it could use a little more power. While it has enough power for city driving or converging to the freeway, it does so with high rev in the engine. List of standard equipments should include ABS, side-airbags,and traction control and not just power windows instead of crank-up windows and with or without keyless entry. Yes, its an economy car but we are not in the 60's.

So what is my dream car? Mercedes-Benz SLK. While I admire Lamborghinis and Ferraris, I like attainable cars. Something I can actually afford without having to rob a bank. This babe is the sexiest thing in the planet right now!!!