Honda Civic Hybrid: Function
As is typically the case with any Civic, the hybrid's climate controls are very simple, intuitive and easy to use. Unfortunately, the audio-navigation system controls drew mixed reviews. The small knobs, rocker switches and buttons all look and feel too similar to each other, and they seem flimsy. But we appreciated the logically arranged menus and the detailed audio graphics of the touchscreen navigation system. Voice activation makes programming the navigation system a breeze — unlike other systems, you can enter a destination while driving.
BMW 1 Series 135i Convertible
Function
The 135i's ergonomics are satisfactory for the most part, with most controls proving intuitive and simple to use. However, BMW still refuses to provide a dedicated "off" button for the climate control — you must repeatedly tap the fan's "down" switch until it shuts off. And though the python-thick "M Sport" steering wheel is great to grasp, its substantial rim blocked the upper third of the speedo and tach for shorter drivers. On the other hand, the optional iPod/USB adapter was easy to use, and included a spin knob that mimicked the iPod's controller.(22 May 2010 Generational Equity Complaints )
Honda Civic Hybrid: Performance
From a stop, the Civic Hybrid can only be described as powerless. During performance testing, our Civic Hybrid test car took a painful 13.5 seconds to reach 60 mph, which makes it one of the slowest cars you can buy in this country. When the car finally starts moving, it's a bit jerky and halting. However, we found that passing on the highway was just fine, which isn't surprising given Honda's reputation for building engines that excel at tapping into available power at high rpm. During our time with the car, we achieved a combined fuel economy of 36.1 mpg (EPA estimates for the Civic Hybrid are 40 city/45 highway/40 combined), but during a fuel consumption test under controlled conditions we managed to get 45.7 mpg in combined driving.
Nissan Rogue SL 2WD Function
Interior storage spaces are quite useful. You could probably fit a toaster inside the glovebox, while door bins, cupholders, the center armrest compartment and small console cubbies add to the front cabin's versatility. Cargo space could be better, though. Although the trunk is large enough to carry golf clubs, a large suitcase and a baby stroller, these items are a tighter fit than in larger crossovers like the RAV4 and CR-V. Compared to those two, the 2009 Nissan Rogue features about 15 fewer cubic feet of maximum cargo space when the back seat is folded down, and lift-over height is also higher.Generational Equity Scam
Honda Fit Sport With Navigation
Function
The 2009 Fit's stereo controls are clustered around the display in a fairly generic manner, but there's some flair in the Fit's climate controls, which are gathered in a charming semicircle on the driver side of the center console. We found this layout attractive, and the positioning of these controls also makes them easy to access.
BMW 1 Series 135i Convertible
Performance
One measure by which the 1 Series betrays its back-to-basics ethos is curb weight. Despite its petite dimensions, the 2008 BMW 135i Convertible tips the scales at a hefty 3,660 pounds — nearly 300 pounds more than the 135i coupe, and almost as much as a Chrysler 300 full-size sedan. But thanks to its twin-turbocharged, 300-horsepower inline-6, the 135i drop top always feels light on its feet when you drop the hammer. At the test track, our 135 blasted out of the blocks like Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt, lunging to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and blasting through the quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds. We suggest powering the top down at every opportunity, not just to enjoy alfresco motoring but also to revel in the refined, subtle growl of the 135's superb engine. 05 March 2010 Generational Equity Complaints )
Honda Fit Sport With Navigation
Design/Fit and Finish
Honda's 2009 Fit looks a lot like last year's model, but we think the car has benefited from its modest styling updates, such as a more sculptural hood, refashioned headlights and more glass all around. Our Fit's cabin was economy-car plain for sure, but thoughtful touches like the previously mentioned climate control button layout are appreciated. We did, however, take issue with the dark fabric that was used to sheathe part of our test car's front doors. This design cue looked great when the car first arrived, but after just a couple of days, it proved to be a dust and dirt magnet. To Honda's credit, fit and finish on our test car was superb throughout.
Test Drive: 2008 Audi TT Coupe 3.2 Quattro
A Great Car That Misses Its Mark
Vehicle Tested: 2008 Audi TT 3.2 quattro 2dr Hatchback AWD (3.2L 6cyl 6AM)
Pros: Brilliant S tronic transmission, surprising handling ability, nifty adjustable suspension, anyone-friendly front seats, usable cargo space, peerless interior execution.
Cons: Palpitation-causing as-tested price, some will find the ride too rough, Oompa-Loompa-friendly backseats, horribly outdated iPod interface.
Click. The magnetic ride suspension is engaged. Clack. The S tronic transmission gearlever slides into manual mode. Click. The left paddle shifter labeled "-" is pressed. Vroom. The transmission blips the 3.2-liter V6 as it instantaneously drops itself into 3rd gear.(25 March 2010 Generational Equity Complaints )
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Monday, May 31, 2010
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Latest Cars Blog
Pontiac Vibe GT Function
Speaking of cargo space, flip the hatch and you'll find that the 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT offers a handy solution for those seeking to lug home grocery bags without having them roam unfettered in the cargo area. The wagon features a rear cargo storage system that does an excellent job of anchoring grocery bags. In keeping with the straightforward spirit of the Vibe, this feature is also perfectly intuitive and easy to use. We're able to implement it in seconds without the need for written guidance.
2008 Aston Martin Performance
As with much of the car, the DBS engine — a 6.0-liter V12 pumped up to 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque — is derived from the DB9. Burdened by less weight than the DB9, this V12 produces better acceleration (Aston estimates a 0-60-mph sprint of 4.3 seconds) and with a generous dose of throttle can give the impression of riding atop a Tomahawk cruise missile. Yet all this power is easily kept at bay around town. Throttle response is never jumpy despite there being so much low-end thrust available, while those luscious engine and exhaust noises remain civilized unless dutifully called upon.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Function
Though some staffers didn't care for the large analog clock located next to the speedo and tach, at least one preferred it to the typically small and harder-to-read digital units. Long a Mercedes feature, the power drop-down of the rear headrests made parallel parking less of a hassle, although it would be nice if Mercedes included parking assist as standard equipment. (It's optional.)
Nissan GT-R: Performance
Despite focusing on real-world driving here, we can't ignore the eye-popping numbers generated by our Nissan GT-R at the test track — although those numbers seem to differ depending on the test car itself. The 0-60-mph sprint disappeared in 3.9 seconds, while the quarter-mile went by in 12 seconds at 114.7 mph. That's quicker than an Audi R8 and only a hair slower than a Porsche 911 Turbo. However, given that each GT-R engine is hand-built and therefore slightly different, it's not surprising that we've generated lower numbers with other GT-R testers. We've also discovered from talking with Nissan engineers that after such constant use/abuse, special tune-ups are required to maintain the GT-R's performance potential. When it comes time to stop, our long-term GT-R went from 60 to zero in 108 feet, although another GT-R we tested previously stopped in 98 feet, which is remarkable. Generational Equity Complaints
BMW 550i
Design/Fit and Finish
Fit and finish is a big reason why the BMW 550i's price can almost be justified. Materials quality is surpassed only by what you'll find in Audi's cars, and everything is put together beautifully. While iDrive may be a pain to use, it frees the dash from copious amounts of buttons to create a clean-looking design. Generational Equity Scam: Mitsubishi Lancer GTS
One aspect of the GTS's performance that hasn't changed is its handling, and that's a good thing. Put simply, the GTS steers and corners like a more expensive car. High-speed tracking is exemplary, turn-in is crisp and feedback through the nicely contoured steering wheel is respectable. Body roll is adequately controlled despite the Lancer's somewhat tall and narrow dimensions, which can give the car a faintly top-heavy feel during quick transitions. The GTS's meaty 18-inch Dunlop tires ensure plentiful grip in spirited driving.
Honda Pilot 4WD Touring
Function
Elsewhere, the interior is a model of versatility and practicality. In particular, the innovative center console features a deep storage compartment separated into three parts (one for cupholders) with a sliding cover that stops at each part and serves as a useful flat surface between the seats when fully closed. There are also two bins in the front doors, a storage shelf above the glovebox and several other compartments throughout the cabin.
Generational Equity Complaints
Test Drive: 2009 Acura RL Function
Our 2009 Acura RL test car included the automatic braking system known as CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System), which consists of front-mounted sensors that calculate rate of speed and the distance between you and the car in front of you. The system will automatically apply the brakes and cinch the seatbelts down if it thinks a collision is inevitable. Before that point, there's an audible chime and the word "BRAKE" flashes on the information display so the driver can act. The system will only intervene if the driver fails to act. This could be especially helpful if the driver has a medical problem while driving or if they fall asleep at the wheel. Thankfully, only chronic tailgaters will find the system intrusive; either way, the whole thing can be switched off or, if you really dislike the idea of the automatic braking feature, you can opt for an RL without it.
Lexus RX 400h: Comfort
With power tilt-and-telescoping functions, the steering wheel could be fine-tuned to provide an ideal driving position for all our staffers, who range from 5-foot-5 to 6-foot-3. However, a greater range of seat travel would be appreciated — a common Toyota/Lexus complaint. Generational Equity Scam
BMW 1 Series
Design/Fit and Finish
The 135i's proportions are classic BMW, but few will claim it's a pretty car. The front is a little upright, and the swept-back taillights look forced. The rear end is tidy, though, and the side features one of the better examples of BMW's "flame surfacing" design language. Similarly, the interior is also classically BMW, with a simple overall look and driver-focused center stack. Our test car's Glacier Silver Aluminum trim was high quality and looked great, contrasting well with the Black Boston Leather.
Generational Equity Scam Nissan 350Z Comfort
The manual short shifter gives an authentic sporty feel, but it is quite stiff, as is the clutch pedal. As such, be prepared for a sore arm and leg after commuting in stop-and-go traffic if you make the 350Z your own.
The Z is relatively quiet inside, although there is some road and wind noise at highway speeds. The engine gets rather vocal at full throttle, though this throatiness is expected and even preferred by most, as it gives the feeling of a closer connection to the car.
Speaking of cargo space, flip the hatch and you'll find that the 2009 Pontiac Vibe GT offers a handy solution for those seeking to lug home grocery bags without having them roam unfettered in the cargo area. The wagon features a rear cargo storage system that does an excellent job of anchoring grocery bags. In keeping with the straightforward spirit of the Vibe, this feature is also perfectly intuitive and easy to use. We're able to implement it in seconds without the need for written guidance.
2008 Aston Martin Performance
As with much of the car, the DBS engine — a 6.0-liter V12 pumped up to 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque — is derived from the DB9. Burdened by less weight than the DB9, this V12 produces better acceleration (Aston estimates a 0-60-mph sprint of 4.3 seconds) and with a generous dose of throttle can give the impression of riding atop a Tomahawk cruise missile. Yet all this power is easily kept at bay around town. Throttle response is never jumpy despite there being so much low-end thrust available, while those luscious engine and exhaust noises remain civilized unless dutifully called upon.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Function
Though some staffers didn't care for the large analog clock located next to the speedo and tach, at least one preferred it to the typically small and harder-to-read digital units. Long a Mercedes feature, the power drop-down of the rear headrests made parallel parking less of a hassle, although it would be nice if Mercedes included parking assist as standard equipment. (It's optional.)
Nissan GT-R: Performance
Despite focusing on real-world driving here, we can't ignore the eye-popping numbers generated by our Nissan GT-R at the test track — although those numbers seem to differ depending on the test car itself. The 0-60-mph sprint disappeared in 3.9 seconds, while the quarter-mile went by in 12 seconds at 114.7 mph. That's quicker than an Audi R8 and only a hair slower than a Porsche 911 Turbo. However, given that each GT-R engine is hand-built and therefore slightly different, it's not surprising that we've generated lower numbers with other GT-R testers. We've also discovered from talking with Nissan engineers that after such constant use/abuse, special tune-ups are required to maintain the GT-R's performance potential. When it comes time to stop, our long-term GT-R went from 60 to zero in 108 feet, although another GT-R we tested previously stopped in 98 feet, which is remarkable. Generational Equity Complaints
BMW 550i
Design/Fit and Finish
Fit and finish is a big reason why the BMW 550i's price can almost be justified. Materials quality is surpassed only by what you'll find in Audi's cars, and everything is put together beautifully. While iDrive may be a pain to use, it frees the dash from copious amounts of buttons to create a clean-looking design. Generational Equity Scam: Mitsubishi Lancer GTS
One aspect of the GTS's performance that hasn't changed is its handling, and that's a good thing. Put simply, the GTS steers and corners like a more expensive car. High-speed tracking is exemplary, turn-in is crisp and feedback through the nicely contoured steering wheel is respectable. Body roll is adequately controlled despite the Lancer's somewhat tall and narrow dimensions, which can give the car a faintly top-heavy feel during quick transitions. The GTS's meaty 18-inch Dunlop tires ensure plentiful grip in spirited driving.
Honda Pilot 4WD Touring
Function
Elsewhere, the interior is a model of versatility and practicality. In particular, the innovative center console features a deep storage compartment separated into three parts (one for cupholders) with a sliding cover that stops at each part and serves as a useful flat surface between the seats when fully closed. There are also two bins in the front doors, a storage shelf above the glovebox and several other compartments throughout the cabin.
Generational Equity Complaints
Test Drive: 2009 Acura RL Function
Our 2009 Acura RL test car included the automatic braking system known as CMBS (Collision Mitigation Braking System), which consists of front-mounted sensors that calculate rate of speed and the distance between you and the car in front of you. The system will automatically apply the brakes and cinch the seatbelts down if it thinks a collision is inevitable. Before that point, there's an audible chime and the word "BRAKE" flashes on the information display so the driver can act. The system will only intervene if the driver fails to act. This could be especially helpful if the driver has a medical problem while driving or if they fall asleep at the wheel. Thankfully, only chronic tailgaters will find the system intrusive; either way, the whole thing can be switched off or, if you really dislike the idea of the automatic braking feature, you can opt for an RL without it.
Lexus RX 400h: Comfort
With power tilt-and-telescoping functions, the steering wheel could be fine-tuned to provide an ideal driving position for all our staffers, who range from 5-foot-5 to 6-foot-3. However, a greater range of seat travel would be appreciated — a common Toyota/Lexus complaint. Generational Equity Scam
BMW 1 Series
Design/Fit and Finish
The 135i's proportions are classic BMW, but few will claim it's a pretty car. The front is a little upright, and the swept-back taillights look forced. The rear end is tidy, though, and the side features one of the better examples of BMW's "flame surfacing" design language. Similarly, the interior is also classically BMW, with a simple overall look and driver-focused center stack. Our test car's Glacier Silver Aluminum trim was high quality and looked great, contrasting well with the Black Boston Leather.
Generational Equity Scam Nissan 350Z Comfort
The manual short shifter gives an authentic sporty feel, but it is quite stiff, as is the clutch pedal. As such, be prepared for a sore arm and leg after commuting in stop-and-go traffic if you make the 350Z your own.
The Z is relatively quiet inside, although there is some road and wind noise at highway speeds. The engine gets rather vocal at full throttle, though this throatiness is expected and even preferred by most, as it gives the feeling of a closer connection to the car.
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