Will Currency Issues Mean More Small Cars Made In America?
In the midst of an economy that isn't recovering as quickly as we'd like, there might be some good news: more vehicles that are made in America.
Now, a strong Euro has made it hard for Toyota to produce vehicles in Japan for export, and according to Automotive News the company is again considering whether the company could profit from building its Yaris small car here in the U.S. The strategy has worked in Europe; Toyota makes the Yaris in France, as well as several other small cars in the Czech Republic and Turkey.
Since there's already less of a profit margin on small cars, and the yen has been so strong, it might make sense to build more small cars, like the Yaris (or potentially the Scion xB or xD) in the U.S., the reasoning goes.
According to Just-Auto.com, Toyota is already the biggest exporter of vehicles to the U.S. What's more, Toyota has had to rely on more exports from Japan after shuttering the Fremont, California, NUMMI facility earlier this year. Assembly is expected to start in Mississippi next fall, but now if small-car sales grow the company might look for a spot to assemble the Yaris as well.
The 2010 Toyota Yaris starts at just $12,605—significantly lower than other markets—so the model poses a profitability challenge for the automaker.
Toyota isn't the only company looking to move small-car assembly to a Stateside location. General Motors will move assembly for the next generation of its Aveo to Michigan, while Ford is planning to build all U.S.-bound versions of its upcoming, all-new 2012 Ford Focus in Michigan.
Mexico remains another option. Nissan assembles its Versa in Mexico, and Chrysler late this year will begin selling Mexican-built Fiat 500 models.
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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J.D. Power Study: Domestics Take The Lead In Vehicle Appeal
No doubt about it at this point, domestic-brand vehicles are more reliable than they used to be. And if you still snicker dismissively when we say that a number of domestic-brand vehicles really do get our pulse going and are better than many imports, it might serve to know that J.D. Power is noting this in the numbers, too.
In fact, domestic brands have pulled ahead of import brands on the 2010 APEAL study, Power's annual measure of appeal and outperformed them for the first time in thirteen years.
David Sargent, vice president of global vehicle research at J.D. Power and Associates, says in a release that the retirement of older unappealing models, the introduction of more appealing models, and the improvement of existing models with refreshes and redesigns have all played a part.
All the news about better quality and reliability probably hasn't hurt either. But this is big news for the domestics, and it might help them keep on track financially as well. J.D. Power says that models with high APEAL scores have historically sold better, had higher profit margins, and are less dependent on incentives.
Among automakers, Ford fared the best, with five segment-level awards—including for the Expedition, Explorer Sport Trac, Flex, Fusion, and Taurus. Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen each earned two segment-bests, with the 2010 Audi Q5 and Q7 utility vehicles, the BMW 3-Series and 5-Series sport sedans, the Chevrolet Avalanche pickup and Camaro sports coupe, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and S-Class sedan; and the Volkswagen GTI hatchback and Routan minivan.
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class scored the highest among any single model, achieving segment-best for the fourth year in a row, while the MINI Cooper achieved segment-best for the third consecutive year. The GMC Terrain, Honda Fit, Land Rover Range Rover, and Nissan Cube were also among the top-performers in APEAL.
Suzuki was most-improved in APEAL versus last year—perhaps a sign that its new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is hitting the mark, along with special initiatives and incentives to help improve dealerships and bring more shoppers in.
Overall, Porsche remained the highest-rated brand overall—for the sixth consecutive year.
The APEAL study, which stands for Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout, essentially measures how satisfied new vehicle owners are with their choices after the first three months of ownership. Questions survey a wide range of attributes such as styling, perceived quality, and satisfaction with performance, comfort, and fuel economy (more than 80 in all); it includes responses from more than 76,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2010-model-year vehicles, in the first 90 days of ownership.
Last year, J.D. Power noted that APEAL scores were up significantly, mostly due to better product introductions and higher satisfaction with fuel economy.
[J.D. Power and Associates]
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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2010 North American Car And Truck Of The Year: And The Winners Are…
Each fall, 50 journalists from the most respected automotive media outlets around the world get together to choose NACOTYs--in long form, the North American Car of the Year and Truck of the Year.
In just a few years of existence, the NACOTY have become one of the most respected awards in the industry. Designed to recognize the outstanding new vehicles in their segments, the awards also have given car shoppers and car enthusiasts an inside tip on the vehicles driving the future of the auto industry--vehicles like the 2009 Hyundai Genesis, the 2008 Mazda CX-9, and the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado.
I'm proud to report that this year I was selected as a member of the NACOTY jury. It's an honor that roughly equates to 20 years of weekends pouring over media kits and sites, shooting cars at sunrise and dusk, praying for a sane driving partner on press events, and sitting in the middle seat on cross-country flights to preview next year's new cars and trucks. And it's pretty humbling, when you consider the experienced hands already on deck.
Now, without further ado, let's see which car and truck took out this year's award. The 2010 Ford Transit Connect is the 2010 NATOTY, its slab-sided appearance speaking of utility and functionality. On the car side, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid wins the 2010 NACOTY award, its efficient hybrid drivetrain good looks, fine handling and solid value combining to win the day. Ford's domination of both Car and Truck of the Year awards will no doubt be noticed within the industry, and the Blue Oval can be relied up to capitalize on the success in its market, too.
To be eligible, a vehicle must be "all new" or "substantially changed" from the previous model.
Interestingly, Chrysler-branded vehicles were surprisingly absent from the list, while the rest of the field was almost equally divided among Japanese, European and American brands.
The jury pool for the 2010 awards reads like a who's who of the automotive media. It includes editors from Edmunds, Road & Track, Automotive News, Kelley Blue Book and USA Today, as well as the Chicago Tribune and Sun-Times, the Boston Globe, the Toronto Star and the Detroit Free Press. The jury also includes an experienced group of freelancers published across the Web, in print, and on camera.
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2010 Chevrolet Aveo Bottom Line
TheCarConnection.com has browsed reviews from a range of respected automotive Web sites, picking out highlights pertaining to the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo to help you make the most informed buying decision. The editors at TheCarConnection.com have driven both body styles of the Aveo and have put together a Bottom Line summary.
Likes
Good build quality
Notable performance in the manual option
Tight ride for its class
Hatchback practicality with Aveo5
Dislikes
Questionable crash-test performance
Ride at cruising speeds
Unfriendly interior controls
The 2010 Chevrolet Aveo is one of the more economical—in terms of price and fuel efficiency—cars to buy in the country today. Both body styles, the Aveo sedan and the Aveo5 hatchback, come with front-wheel drive and should be among the small cars on the shopping list of anyone concerned about high fuel prices. The Aveo is all-around competent, although many buyers may be left wanting more.
Offered in three variants—base, LS, and LT—the Aveo5 wears the guise introduced in 2009, whereas the four-door sedan was revised back in 2008. GM Daewoo in South Korea builds the Aveos, all of which carry Chevrolet's new signature front-end styling, with a Chevy bow framed by a larger grille. Larger tail lamps and an available rear spoiler dress up the basic model. The side vent in the Aveo5 (absent from the sedan) is ludicrous.
The 2010 Chevrolet Aveo and Aveo5 use identical engines, transmissions, and chassis components. EPA mileage for the pair is 27/35 mpg (city/highway) on models equipped with a five-speed manual transmission and 25/34 mpg for those with a four-speed automatic. The engine is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 108 horsepower and 104 pound-feet of torque, which can give you about 400 miles from a single tank. When you give the vehicle a once-over, there's no getting away from it being a strictly city car. It comes with MacPherson struts, a torsion-beam rear, and a short 97.7-inch wheelbase. Small 14-inch wheels are fitted as standard, while 15-inch units (and anti-lock brakes) are optional. The Aveo is nifty around town, but once you reach cruising speeds over 70 mph, the car reveals its urban heritage, feeling nervous and out of place.
The Aveo may offer five seat belts, but getting five adults into the car is much easier said than done. Space, especially in the rear, is tight, although it's more than adequate for four occupants. The rear bench has theater-style seating (for better exterior visibility) and a 60/40 split for cargo flexibility. Improved interior materials introduced in 2009 carry over for the latest model year, including optional wood grain trim, as well as metallic and carbon-fiber-look materials. Storage and convenience bins are all over the interior, and higher-end features such as cruise control, XM, and a large sunroof are also offered. GM products often have one of the best XM radio setups, but the Aveo's radio controls are missing a tuning knob found on most other models.
In terms of safety, the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo includes front and side airbags as standard, leaving ABS as an option. A bonus is the height-adjustable front shoulder belts, which prove to be more comfortable. Scores for the Aveo5 in federal crash tests are dual five-star ratings for frontal impacts and dual four-star ratings for side impacts. The Aveo sedan fares less well, losing one star each for the passengers in front and side impacts. In IIHS tests, the insurance institute rates the Aveo's offset frontal-impact performance as "acceptable" and side impact as just "marginal." An offering the competitors do not have is the added measure of safety provided by GM OnStar, which is included.
Cars in this category come with a lot of extras standard these days, and the Aveo is no different. The base Aveo LS comes with a tilt steering wheel, rear-window defroster, AM/FM audio system with an auxiliary input jack for an iPod or other device, intermittent windshield wipers, and OnStar as standard. The 1LT packages add air conditioning and a CD player to the audio system, while the 2LT package packs on more, including cruise control, power heated exterior rearview mirrors, XM Satellite Radio, and remote keyless entry. Available options for the 2LT models include a sunroof, perforated leatherette (vinyl) seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Bluetooth connectivity (this feature is also optional on 1LT trims).
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Chevrolet Aveo and Aveo5 are worth considering if the bulk of your driving is done around the city—but there are plenty of better small-car options that don't cost much more.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo, also consider:
- Honda Fit
- Hyunai Accent
- Kia Rio
- Nissan Versa
- Toyota Yaris
Reason Why:
The Aveo5 hatchback is one of the cheapest vehicles available today at under $13,000. Regarding the competition, the Nissan Versa drives and feels most like a larger vehicle, in a positive sense, with a smooth and settled ride on the highway, as well as a spacious cabin. Another rival that's hard to beat is the Honda Fit, which benefits from a sporty driving character and roomy cabin, as well as a customizable seat arrangement and best-in-class safety. Base models of the Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, and Toyota Yaris are in the same price range. The Rio and Accent (mechanically related to each other) don't feel as roomy. The Yaris is smaller inside, too. The Korean pair is much more fun to drive than the Aveo, but they're not as refined because of their stiffer ride and noisier engines.
Buying Tip
Keep the bottom-line price low. Because of high depreciation, if you load down a model like the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo with options, it no longer makes long-run economic sense for most penny-pinchers.
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Honda Element Gets a Second Coming
It was new in 2003, and hasn't changed much since--but U.S. Honda officials say the funky Element crossover vehicle will get a second act.
Honda sales chief John Mendel tells Automotive News that the automaker has plans for a second coming of the Element. And though he didn't divulge any details to the industry magazine, Mendel did indicate that the Element is a key product for the Japanese automaker's lineup.
Mendel says the Element's audience is distinct from the brand's more conventional CR-V--and that "you couldn't get most Element buyers to even sit in a CR-V," the News reports.
Honda had planned to sell more than 75,000 Elements a year when it was introduced for the 2003 model year. Its best year came in 2003, when more than 67,000 were sold. This year Honda's sold barely 13,000.
Despite those low sales numbers, the Element remains one of the top-rated small crossovers here at TheCarConnection, with an overall rating of 7.8. Editors point to the Element's great safety and crash-test scores, its flexible cargo hold, and its overall value, while pointing out its excessive road noise, awkward clamshell doors and the texture of some of its interior plastics as negatives.
Read more and see more photos, specs and pricing information at our 2010 Honda Element page.
[Automotive News, login required]
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Garia’s Pricey Golf Car[t]: Is The Recession Over Already?
There's no denying that the Garia Luxury Golf Car is a thing of beauty -- well designed, swanky, with clean, sexy looks. But we have to chuckle a bit at the company's press release, which touts the fact that the car[t] is manufactured at the same factory that makes the Porsche Cayenne and Porsche Boxter and that its aluminum frame is built by the same company that "supplies aluminum profiles to Aston Martin, Jaguar and Volvo". (FYI, we cook in the same kitchen where our mom makes Thanksgiving dinner, but with very different results.) The Garia's $17,500 price tag, on the other hand, is no laughing matter at all. For fun, we've included the full release below. Pass it around the office -- or to any Sultans of Brunei you might know.
* * * * *
WORLD PREMIERE: THE GARIA LUXURY GOLF CAR
For the first time ever, the golf cart has been reinvented as a luxury golf car. And when we say car, we really mean it.
Built to the highest standards of the automotive industry The Garia features a double wishbone front suspension similar to those found in sports cars and inspired by Formula 1 cars. The drive train is built by an Italian company that also produces Ducati gearboxes. The aluminum profiles in the frame are made by the same company that supplies aluminum profiles to Aston Martin, Jaguar and Volvo. Hydraulic brakes on all four wheels with discs in the front and drums at the rear. The Garia is manufactured at the Valmet Automotive factory in Finland, manufacturer of the Porsche Cayman and Porsche Boxster.
Top it all off with an in-built refrigerator, hand-stitched seats and an exclusive personalization program where you can choose to have The Garia painted in your favorite color or matched to your other cars. With The Garia you are sure to get the most desirable golf car ever created.
Designed by Danish designer Anders Lynge, The Garia is innovative and unique. The Garia follows the renowned Scandinavian tradition of clear-cut and classic lines combined with functionality.
Still not satisfied? In 2010, The Garia will be street legal and available in the US market as an LSV (Low Speed Vehicle). The Garia LSV will be launched at the Geneva Auto Show in March.
Explore The Garia today at www.garia.com
Download pictures of The Garia here: http://garia.dk/garia-golf-
Prices start at USD 17,499/ Euro 13,999 (excl. delivery and taxes)
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2010 Lincoln MKT Road Test
TheCarConnection.com drove the new 2010 Lincoln MKT to bring you this hands-on road test review. Editors at TheCarConnection.com also compared the MKT with other crossovers and researched reviews from a wide range of reputable sources to bring you a comprehensive look at the new 2010 Lincoln crossover.
High Gear Media drove an MKT provided by Lincoln to produce this hands-on road test.
Likes:
Distinctive styling wows the unprepared
First- and second-row seating comfort
Advanced tech features (including a fridge!)
EcoBoost engine's smooth sailing
Telescoping steering wheel standard
Dislikes:
Is that distinctive styling too polarizing?
One of the best third-row seats is still tight
Front headrests still sit too far forward
In the automotive world, the words "big" and "responsive" don't normally go together. The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT puts those two words comfortably in a curvy shape that stands out at a standstill and in motion. Editors from TheCarConnection.com like the Ford Flex and, after spending some time behind the wheel of the mechanically similar MKT, have the same positive impression of the Lincoln. The $46,990 2010 MKT shifts Lincoln further away from its dowdy styling past and delivers vast interior room, while it brings a good measure of driving pleasure and sophistication along for the ride.
It shares its powertrain and chassis with the Ford Flex, but you'd be hard-pressed to identify the 2010 Lincoln MKT as a fraternal twin to the Ford. Where the Flex is a two-box design in the purest sense, the 2010 MKT flows from a canted twin-nostril grille to a sensual upkick in its shoulder line, finishing in a broad, angled decklid banded by a ribbon of taillights and badges. It's a standout design with details that will have you looking a second and third time to identify its heritage-but in retrospect it fits well with Lincoln's past, particularly with the Continentals of the mid-1960s and their broad hockey-stick bands of chrome. Inside, the MKT wears high-quality materials; the wood- or metallic-trimmed dash echoes the front end smartly, and LED white lighting and a sharp LCD screen draw attention, though a few rows of small black buttons do little for style or functionality.
Six-cylinders and automatic transmissions are the core of the 2010 Lincoln MKT's powertrain. The base 3.7-liter V-6 puts out 268 horsepower, and teamed with the six-speed automatic, does a reasonable job of shuttling around the 4,800-pound MKT without merging-lane drama. Adding all-wheel drive picks up a few hundred more pounds. Lincoln offers a turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6-and you should choose it, if you can afford it. The EcoBoost V-6 spools up 355 horsepower and delivers impressive thrust that is completely in keeping with the crossover's character: refined, as a Lincoln should be, with a touch of noticeable engine noise. The heavy-duty six-speed automatic responds accordingly, always calling up the right gear at the right time, and paddle shifters will let you choose gears on command, though they seem a bit out of place in this barrel-chested crossover. Overall, the MKT's ride and handling feel grounded, solid, controlled, and responsive. The base version's suspension and electronic power steering are sharpened for EcoBoost models, which also get standard all-wheel drive; neither drivetrain is meant for clawing around canyon corners, but both provide a creamy ride and a responsive steering feel, with more sensitivity dialed into the EcoBoost version. Fuel economy suffers just a point on the EcoBoost; it's 16/22 mpg, versus 17/23 mpg on the base version.
Both the 2010 MKT and the Ford Flex are designed with adult comfort in mind. The MKT can be had in six- and seven-passenger versions, with bucket seats in the second row an option over the standard 60/40 split-folding bench seat. The front seats show the attention normally paid to the seats in Volvos; they're fantastic for long drives, with room in all directions (and a little contact with hard metallic trim at the knee). The front active headrests are improved over the Flex-they tilt too far forward-but could use a degree or more of recline before we pronounce them perfect. The MKT adds telescoping steering to the Flex package, which improves driving position. Second-row seats have copious foot- and legroom, and the third row is almost large enough for some adults, though mainly intended for children. Power "fold and tumble" second-row seats with heating, cooling, and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available, and third-row passengers can fold second-row seats out of the way by pressing a button-a nice touch. Cargo room behind the third row is as much as an Acura RL, at 17.3 cubic feet; fold down the second seat and it rises to 39.6 cubic feet. With both rear rows folded, the MKT has a cavernous 75.9 cubic feet of room for hauling home estate-sale finds.
It's difficult to come up with safety features not included on the 2010 Lincoln MKT. Ford installs front, side, and curtain airbags (which extend three rows of protection); stability and traction control; anti-lock brakes; a rearview camera; a blind-spot alert system; and adaptive headlamps. The MKT hasn't been crash-tested by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) or the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), but the similar Ford Flex tops the safety rankings. Other safety features include Active Park Assist, which helps drivers guide the MKT into parking spaces through sensors, cameras, and adaptive cruise control.
Other comfort and convenience features ladled on the 2010 Lincoln MKT include a large, standard, fixed-panel sunroof; dual-zone climate control; the Bluetooth-and-voice-controlled SYNC system; a keyless entry pad on the door frame; high-intensity discharge headlamps with automatic high beams; and push-button start with MyKey features that allow drivers to set preferences for speed controls, radio functions, and seat/mirror memory positions. A handful of options can be specific to bring the most expensive MKTs to nearly $55,000-including a power panoramic sunroof; 20-inch polished aluminum wheels; a rear-seat DVD entertainment system; active parking assist and adaptive cruise control; a navigation system with a music hard drive and THX II-certified speakers; and last but not least, a five-quart refrigerator mounted between the middle seats.
The Bottom Line: Supremely spacious and stunning from some angles, the 2010 Lincoln MKT gets truly arresting with its EcoBoost turbo V-6.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Lincoln MKT, also consider:
- Acura MDX
- Audi Q7
- Buick Enclave
Reason Why
The 2010 Lincoln MKT stands out in a group of seven-seat crossovers with impressive styling, features, and comfort. It's closest in price to the Acura MDX, which has more pedestrian styling but a touch more refinement, though the 2010 model's loose steering is an unwelcome change. The Audi Q7 carries a base price near that of the MKT, but adding diesels, V-8s, or third-row seats balloons its price into the stratosphere. You'll pay for the most refined driving feel in the bunch. The Buick Enclave is a less expensive alternative, with seven seats and a suave design inside and out, but handling and drivetrain refinement are less satisfying than in these cars.
Buying Tips:
If you're unsure about the snob appeal of owning a Lincoln instead of an Acura or an Audi, remember that presidential limousines are a big part of Lincoln's history. Also, if you're planning on using SYNC on a daily basis, make sure your current cell phone connects with the MKT's Bluetooth. Some phones are not supported, and shouting voice commands and mashing the steering-wheel buttons won't make it cooperate.
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2009 Honda Civic
The car experts at TheCarConnection.com studied a wide range of road tests of the 2009 Honda Civic to compile this definitive review. TheCarConnection.com's editors also drove the new Honda Civic to help you decide which reviews to trust where opinions differ, to add more impressions and details, and to provide you with the best information.
Likes
Energetic engines
Excellent manual transmissions
Reputation for reliability
Fuel economy
Dislikes
Swoopy styling cuts into headroom
Backseat hard to enter
Ride can get busy
The 2009 Honda Civic lineup is one of the more extensive in the automotive industry and encompasses a base model, a sports-oriented version (the Si), a Hybrid, and a natural-gas version in the form of the Honda Civic GX. Both of the conventionally powered Civics come in either sedan or coupe body styles, while the Hybrid and GX are available exclusively as four-doors. For 2009, Honda expands the trim lineup with the LX-S and VP sedans, while all Civics get new exterior styling and an array of new available features, such as Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and a USB audio interface.
The 2009 Honda Civic lineup has been mildly restyled, but overall it maintains the futuristic styling on display last year. While it definitely stands out in a crowd, the deeply raked windshield on both the coupe and sedan leaves a lot of unusable room atop the dash. The two-tiered dashboard is also unlike anything seen on the Civic's competitors, with the tach and speedo separated vertically into two distinct recesses. The overall effect is it seems as though you're commanding the Civic through a video game, and while it's not very believable on the sedan, it does work somewhat better on the Civic coupe.
The base 2009 Honda Civic is powered by a 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that pairs with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic. Either transmission delivers exceptional fuel economy, with EPA estimates for the manual of 26 mpg city, 34 highway for the manual gearbox and 25/36 mpg for the automatic. Honda offers a perfectly acceptable automatic transmission for the base Civic, but Honda is known for its light, quick-shifting manuals, and the latest iteration on the Civic is no exception.
For those willing to spend a little more money and trade fuel economy for a lot more horsepower, Honda offers the 2009 Civic Si sedan and coupe, which receive a 57-hp boost over the base model. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that sits under the hood puts out 197 hp and drives the wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Si-exclusive features include a standard limited-slip differential, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and Si exterior trim, as well as synthetic sports seats.
The 2009 Civic is also offered in two especially green versions: the gas-electric Hybrid edition (covered separately) and the natural-gas-powered GX model. The GX edition is eligible for up to $4,000 in tax credits and can be teamed with a home refueling station dubbed "Phill." Honda says that natural gas is about 35 percent cheaper than gasoline, and the GX gets the gasoline equivalent of 24 mpg city, 36 mpg highway.
The 2009 Honda Civic, with its MacPherson struts up front and multilink rear suspension, offers crisper handling than its Hybrid cousin, but it doesn't quite reach the bar set by the supercrisp Mazda3. The Civic's power steering system is quick to respond, and the brakes inspire confidence with their solid pedal feel. However, the ride on the base Civic is a bit choppy, considering the Civic's longish wheelbase, though that is most likely the result of the compact suspension design. The sport-tuned Si is even harsher, with choppy roads inducing significant rattling.
Driving the 2009 Honda Civic is a pleasure, thanks to the generous support offered by the front seats. Even in base cars, the height-adjustable seats leave great headroom for tall drivers. The rear, however, is less rosy; the rear doors on the sedan are cut narrow at their base, so it's not easy for long legs to clamber in and out. Also, backseat passengers had better not be tall, or even average in height, as the curvature of the roof interferes with headroom.
Power windows and door locks and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel are standard on all models. The Civic LX has air conditioning, cruise control, power locks, a CD audio system with an auxiliary jack, and a folding rear seat. The EX sedan gets distinct alloy wheels, a sunroof, and an available navigation system with XM Satellite Radio. A new-for-2009 DX-VP model adds air conditioning and an audio system to the Civic DX sedan's standard features. The Civic EX-L edition picks up a leather interior with heated seats and mirrors. Options include a hands-free Bluetooth system and USB audio interface, as well as satellite radio and a navigation system on the Si, Hybrid, and EX.
Every Civic gets dual, side, and side curtain airbags, as well as anti-lock brakes, and the news is very positive on the safety front. The 2009 Honda Civic gets a "good" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. New for 2009 and now standard on the Civic EX-L, Hybrid, and Si is an electronic stability control system, which Honda dubs Vehicle Stability Assist.
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Honda Civic lineup rates well for safety, handling, and overall frugality, though those who plan to carry cargo or frequent backseat passengers should look elsewhere.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Honda Civic, also consider:
- Ford Focus
- Mazda3
- Hyundai Elantra
- Toyota Corolla
Reason Why:
The Mazda3 has a reputation for the best handling in this class; there's a new Mazda3 arriving as an early '10 model, and it's even better in refinement and interior materials. The Toyota Corolla is new for the 2009 model year and gets more refined and more expensive, though base versions can have a plasticky interior. The Ford Focus was restyled for the 2008 model year, and while most reviewers think it's a step backward, the Focus has new features like Ford's SYNC entertainment and hands-free phone controller. Finally, shoppers of standard-version Civic sedans owe it to themselves to check out the Hyundai Elantra sedan, which is arguably a step above the Corolla in refinement, yet roomier and more comfortable than the Civic.
Buying Tip
The Honda Civic is a perennial strong seller, and it holds good resale value, so don't expect major price cuts at the showroom.
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Toyota Is Hot In Us And Japan
Toyota Is Hot In Us And Japan by Jonathon Hardcastle
Major car manufacturer Toyota has produced car models that have consistently ranked high in both the US and Japan market, specifically with regard to the Toyota Camry and the remodeled Toyota Corolla.
While the Toyota Camry has been the best-selling car in the United States for the past four years (2002-2005), back in Japan where Toyota is based, it is the Toyota Corolla that has been the best selling vehicle. Reports say there were 70,675 units of the Toyota Corolla sold from January to June this year. That total is actually a decrease of 11.7% from their total sales during the same period a year ago.
According to figures from the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, the Toyota Corolla has actually been the best-selling car in Japan for the last four six-month periods. Toyota actually released a fully remodeled Corolla in August 2000 and its impressive sales performance since that time attests to its immense popularity.
The performance of the Toyota Camry in the United States has been simply amazing. Not only has it been the best-selling car for four straight years now, it has also been the country's best seller in eight of the last nine years. It has consistently topped its mid-size competitors such as the Honda Accord and the Chevrolet Impala in that period.
Reports say that plans are currently afoot to launch a hybrid Camry later this year as well a fully redesigned version of the Camry in 2007. The general expectation is that Toyota Camry set to be unveiled Monday at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the sedan likely will set the bar high for its competitors.
Understandably, Toyota has been mum about the new Camry, hardly releasing any details. However, according to Jim Press, president and chief operating officer of Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc., it will offer better style, technology and drivability. And it will build on the reputation the nameplate has established in previous incarnations.
Press said he expects the company this year to sell about the nearly the same as the 432,000 Camrys it sold in 2005, but may lose some sales as it switches from offering the old model. He said Toyota strives to keep Camry's style timeless while keeping in mind the goal of a well-balanced car that satisfies drivers' needs.
Jonathon Hardcastle writes articles on many topics including Automotive, Shopping, and Recreation
Article Source: Free Articles ArticleSnatch Article Directory
2009 Scion xD
In order to bring you this comprehensive review of the 2009 Scion xD, the automotive brain trust at TheCarConnection.com consulted with a wide range of review sources, then included the driving experience of TheCarConnection.com's editors.
Likes:
Great value for the money
Good crash safety
Safety features
Dislikes:
Skimpy front seats
Rear stadium seating impedes headroom
Premium sound system doesn't include premium speakers
The 2009 Scion xD replaced the xA in 2008 as the smallest model from Scion, Toyota's line of small cars aimed at young buyers. The 2009 Scion xD shares some of its underpinnings with the latest Toyota Yaris but offers more aggressive styling inside and out.
A 128-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is the only choice on the 2009 Scion xD. It's slightly more powerful (and slightly more fuel-efficient) engine than the smaller one used in the Yaris, and it pairs especially well with the five-speed manual transmission but also works quite smoothly with the four-speed automatic. Overall, the engine has plenty of pep to move the xD along quickly and keep up with traffic even with a full load. Yet the 1.8-liter gets fuel economy that's comparable to the old 1.5-liter engine, at 27 mpg city, 33 mpg highway under the new EPA standards. Unfortunately, the automatic doesn't have a manual shift mode, and it lacks the refinement of the Honda Fit's, which features five gears and returns better economy.
From the outside, the 2009 Scion xD has a slightly menacing style, with flared wheel wells filled by standard 16-inch wheels or optional alloys that range up to 18 inches. Some liken it to a bulldog-meets-Mack-truck look, others have likened it to blocky footwear. The very upright profile affords a lot of space inside at the expense of more wind noise. The xD's front seats get mixed reviews and, while supportive for short drives, the lower cushions are just too short for taller folks, a common complaint in small cars. In back, the seat slides fore and aft six inches, depending on the size of your backseat passengers or cargo, and the 60/40-split rear seatback (with three adjustable headrests) can recline 10 degrees―which might be necessary, as headroom is tight in back. There's only 10.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the backseats up, but that can be greatly expanded with the seats folded. Toyota makes efficient use of the space with storage bins and cubbyholes. The front doors feature molded-in bottle holders, and there are bins forward of the gear selector and to the left of the steering wheel.
As with the other Scion models, the interior styling in the 2008 Scion is very flamboyant. The gauge cluster is styled like a large watch face. Unlike some Scions, it's situated in front of the driver and moves with the tilt steering wheel. A trip computer that can display range and fuel efficiency is standard. Seating and interior finishing materials are better than expected at this price point.
Compared with that of rivals in the same price range, the standard-equipment list is vast. Conveniences such as air conditioning; cruise control; steering-wheel audio controls; a 160-watt, six-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system that's MP3- and satellite-compatible; a rear wiper; a first-aid kit; and power windows, locks, and mirrors are all included in the base price. In competing vehicles, some of these items are only available as part of expensive option packages. Major stand-alone options on the 2009 Scion xD include a Pioneer Premium Sound system that doesn't sound so premium to TheCarConnection.com's resident audiophile, and an in-dash navigation system―a rarity in this class.
But this is a Scion, and that means access to over 40 dealer-installed upgrades and accessories, in addition to hundreds of aftermarket parts. Many for the 2009 Scion xD are cosmetic enhancements, but there are also a wide range of TRD performance accessories, including a quick shifter kit, lowering springs, cold-air intake, sport muffler, and big brakes.
The xD has received four-star ratings for frontal impact and great five-star ratings for side impact from the federal government. Insurance-affiliated IIHS results agree, with "acceptable" results for frontal impact and top "good" ratings for side and rear impact protection. Side-curtain airbags front and rear, active front headrests, and anti-lock brakes are standard on the 2009 Scion xD, and traction and electronic stability control―a feature usually not at all offered on cars this price―is optional. Do note, however, that the brakes are front disc/rear drum, while some models offer more fade-resistant four-wheel discs.
Other Choices
If you like the 2009 Scion xD, also consider:
- Chevrolet Aveo5
- Honda Fit
- Kia Rio5
- Nissan Versa
Reason Why
Compared to the 2009 Scion xD, the Aveo5 has a more spacious, comfortable interior, but it lags in nearly all other areas, with a shorter features list, sluggish performance, and questionable safety. The Kia Rio5 is a better alternative, with a sportier driving feel and spacious interior, but it doesn't match the xD either in terms of features for the money, nor does it have Toyota's reputation for reliability. The Nissan Versa feels like a bigger car, with the poise and a settled ride that's a step above, but it doesn't feel especially sporty from behind the wheel. Finally, the Honda Fit is probably the most practical choice of this group, while still feeling quite sporty to drive. Its plentiful headroom and a backseat large enough for adults, along with the Magic Seat design that expands to an impressive amount of cargo space, are unbeatable.
The Bottom Line: The 2009 Scion xD is one of the most substantial and feature-laden vehicles for the money, and the opportunity for customization helps mask any econo-car cues.
Buying Tip
Wishing for a two-door hatchback? You might want to take a look at the Toyota Yaris, which, though cheaper, is configured to be even more frugal than the 2009 Scion xD. For 2009, the Yaris is also available in a five-door hatchback model, so if you're craving better fuel economy and don't mind a step down in performance and features, look across the lot.
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