Toyota 4 Runner – Runs on All Fours

By Casey Williams  MyCarData

Boulder, CO – The recent downturn in the economy and high fuel prices over the past couple or years have separated authentic SUVs from the pretenders and interlopers. Originally based on Toyota’s popular compact pickups, the 4Runner has always been the choice for off-road capability and on-highway comfort and style. With even some big name competitors leaving the roadways to car-based crossovers, the new 2010 4Runner stays true to its truck-based roots.

Completely new styling takes the best of the Tundra pickup, Land Cruiser, and previous-generation 4Runner, but turns it out in a wholly modern wrapper. The front is dominated by a scaled-down, but meaner-looking, version of the Tundra’s blunt nose. Accentuated wheel arches communicate the SUV’s toughness and off-road capability while chrome doorhandles and up to 20” alloy wheels paint with panache. 4Runner looks tough enough to tackle the Rubicon, but suave enough for an evening on the town.

Once inside, you may give a care about neither the Rubicon nor town. Passengers ride in a cabin that can best be described as industrial swank. The center control stack and gear selector are girded by silver finish and feel of towering strength. Fortunately, the dash also contains easy-to-use controls for the optional dual zone automatic climate control, navigation, and available 15-speaker JBL audio systems. Mirror-mounted rearview camera monitors are standard on Limited and Trail grades, optional on SR5. A Smart Key with keyless entry and push button starting is standard on the Limited.

Much attention was paid to seating. Three rows can be upholstered in leather (standard in water-resistant cloth). Front and second-row thrones recline – rears up to 16 degrees. Access to the third row is made easier by splitting the second row into a 40/20/40 with a one-touch walk-in switch. Protection is provided by eight standard airbags, including dual front, front side, front knee, and side curtains. In case one of these airbags deploys, Automatic Collision Notification automatically calls a response center to dispatch emergency services.

Powertrains come in two types: Frugal and Ferocious. Eco-minded drivers will choose the base DOHC 16-valve 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 157 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. of torque. Attached to a four-speed automatic transmission, fuel economy is rated 18/23-MPG city/highway.

Those with something to prove, or a trailer to tow, will step up to the available 4.0-litre V6 that produces a hearty 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s 34 more ponies than the previous-generation and 10 more than the optional V8 that has been discontinued. Fuel economy for the V6 improved a couple of MPGs and is now rated 17/23-MPG for the 4×2 and 17/22-MPG for the 4×4.

Most owners will not choose the 4Runner for its luxuriously leather seats or frugal gas mileage. They could choose a Lexus RX350 for those and be completely content. Unless you’re the Swiss Army Knife type who wants ridiculous capability whether you need it or not, you’re likely to shop for a 4Runner because of what it can do for you.
4Runners can pull up to 5,000 lbs., ride on a full truck frame, and eat crossovers as granola. There’s more to help your adventures. The SUVs can be equipped with Toyota’s CRAWL Control, an adjustable system that contains the vehicle’s speed on rough terrain by one of five settings. It is also available with a Multi Terrain Select system that varies the amount of wheel slip permitted, depending on conditions. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill start assist lasso downhill runs and hold the vehicle steady when lifting from brake to throttle going uphill. Vehicle Stability Control, traction control, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution keep the vehicle steady on highways and byways.

Said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota Division, “In 1984 the first 4Runner helped cultivate and foster the up-and-coming SUV market. When the new 4Runner launches later this fall it will continue to be a perfect fit for young, and young-at-heart, outdoor and off-road enthusiasts.”

There are more new features on the 2010 4Runner than three articles could contain. To find the right model for you, at an appropriate price point, you’ll need to visit a Toyota retailer or go online. If history is any indication, the all-new model will give chase to some very competent off-road machines, and more than a few luxury cars. With base prices starting at $29,175, competitors include the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Xterra, Hummer H3, and Chevy Tahoe.

Ford C-MAX; Coming to America!

Source – Ford MyCarData

For all of you who commented last week on the article, “First Look at the All-new Ford C-MAX,” here’s the announcement you’ve been waiting for: The Ford C-Max is coming to North America!

The all-new 7-seat Ford C-MAX debuted today at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, and it will arrive in North America beginning late 2011. The new C-MAX brings kinetic design language to the compact segment, combining bold styling and versatile, spacious 7-seat layout.

The C-MAX is the first of a new generation of global C-segment cars scheduled for introduction by Ford over the next several years. This series of new models will include the all-new, next-generation Ford Focus sedan and five-door hatchback models, scheduled to launch late in calendar year 2010 in the United States.

According to Ford analysts, small cars in the B- and C-segments accounted for less than 15 percent of the U.S. market in 2004. In year-to-date sales through August 2009 however, the small car segment has reached nearly 22 percent of total industry sales, and further gains are expected.

Ford’s new C-vehicle family is the result of an unprecedented global development program that will deliver for customers an array of available advanced technologies aimed at enhancing their convenience, comfort, safety and overall driving experience.

“Consumers are seeking uncompromised vehicles offering value for the money, and C-MAX squarely hits those targets,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development. “The Focus C-MAX will be great to look at, great to sit in and great to drive, bringing Ford DNA to a new market segment in the form of an aspirational, fuel-efficient people carrier.”

Exterior design elevates segment

The new Ford Focus C-MAX demonstrates that compact, 7-seat vehicles can be stylish and desirable while still delivering outstanding space and functionality.

Bold exterior and interior designs have been created using the latest evolution of Ford’s kinetic design form language, building on the themes established in recent product introductions like the hugely successful European-developed Fiesta, Kuga and Mondeo ranges.

Kinetic design elements applied to the new C-MAX include the dynamic, rising beltline, full sculpted surfaces, bold wheel lips, strong athletic shoulders supported by a prominent undercut line and the distinctive kick-up of the window graphic at the C-pillar.

Offering seating for up to seven, the C-MAX destined for North America features a high roofline and thin pillars to emphasize the generous room and visibility in the cabin. Twin sliding doors are neatly integrated, with the rail concealed by the undercut line on the shoulder of the vehicle.

Stylish, modern interior

The new C-MAX interior mirrors the dynamic and modern character of the exterior, complete with muscular, expressive shapes and bold graphics.

Key design features include the taut, wing-like form of the upper instrument panel, which reaches out to the sides of the interior. A dramatic sweeping form connects the instrument panel with the center console.

The cockpit provides a commanding, raised driving position with high-mounted shifter and center console inspired by the acclaimed layout in the new Fiesta. Carefully designed storage areas are located throughout the cabin, including generous door pockets, a large glove box and additional compartments and cup holders in the center console.

Ingenious 7-seat layout

To maximize the versatility of the 7-seat layout, Ford engineers developed a new seat-folding mechanism for the three second-row seats. This mechanism allows the center seat to fold quickly and easily under one of the two outboard seats, creating a handy walk-through space between them.

This walk-through space allows passengers to access the third row without having to disturb the two outer seats, which is particularly helpful when those positions are occupied by child safety seats. Owners have the option of using the convenient 2+2+2 seating layout or switching to a full 7-seater when required.

The second- and third-row seats also have been cleverly engineered so they can be folded to create a flat load floor, regardless of how many seats remain in use. All of the folding mechanisms are designed so they operate with just one hand.

Ford EcoBoostTM advanced powertrains

In many markets, the new C-car family will be offered with versions of Ford’s new EcoBoostTM engines. EcoBoost combines direct petrol injection, turbocharging and dual variable valve timing to maximize efficiency, resulting in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced by up to 20 percent compared with conventional gasoline engines with a similar power output.

The initial Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder lineup will comprise 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter engines. The engines will be available globally, with versions launching in Europe and North America in 2010, and the first rear-wheel-drive application in the Ford Falcon in Australia in 2011. By 2013, nearly 80 percent of Ford global nameplates will have an available EcoBoost option.

Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Surfaces

Source – Toyota MyCarData

The 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) Concept vehicle will make its world debut next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Demonstration Program Begins in U.S. Late 2009.

Based on the third-generation Prius, the PHV Concept expands Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, utilizing first generation lithium-ion battery technology and enabling electric operation at higher speeds and longer distances than conventional hybrids. When fully charged, the vehicle is targeted to achieve an electric-only range of approximately 12 miles and will be capable of achieving highway speeds in electric-only mode. For longer distances, the PHV concept reverts to “hybrid mode” and operates like a regular Prius. This ability to utilize all-electric power for short trips or hybrid power for longer drives alleviates the issue of limited cruising range encountered with pure electric vehicles.

Beginning in late 2009, Toyota will begin global delivery of 500 Prius PHV vehicles. Of this initial fleet, 150 will be placed with select U.S. lease-fleet customers for market and engineering analysis. This program will allow Toyota to gather real world driving feedback and understand customer expectations for plug-in technology. In addition, the program will allow evaluation of the first generation lithium-ion battery’s durability, reliability and performance.

“The greatest hurdle in bringing to market a reliable lithium battery is mass production. We must have a production process that guarantees each battery will be identical in performance and quality,” said Irv Miller, TMS group vice president, environmental and public affairs.

The vehicle’s first-generation lithium-ion battery will be built on a dedicated PEVE (Panasonic EV Energy Company, LTD) assembly line. PEVE is a joint-venture in which Toyota owns 60 percent equity. The first generation lithium-ion batteries were developed in-house by Toyota Research and Development, and a dedicated battery development team is already working on the next battery “beyond lithium.”

The 150 demonstration vehicles will be placed in strategic clusters around the U.S., allowing development of charging infrastructure and communications support for program participants. Each placement scenario will have a variety of ‘use cases’ or driving conditions (ie: commute length, usage type, access to charging) to gain maximum input to vehicle performance and customer needs.

“Although we like to be first to market with these technologies, it’s more important that we are best to market,” said Miller. “This demonstration program will ensure that the vehicles we bring to market will not just meet customer expectations, but exceed them.”

Preview New 2010 Honda Crosstour

As if by the world’s spirits, Honda unveiled its all-new 2010 Accord Crosstour the same week I drove the Toyota Venza. The two cars are vastly different in their styling, but obviously target the same empty nesters who want extra utility in their comfy sedans. Based on the benchmark Accord, Crosstour promises all of its sister’s excellence with even more functionality.

“Our concept is to broaden the appeal of the Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck marketplace,” said Erik Berkman, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a [Crossover Utility Vehicle] while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan.”

Styling is a more advanced take on the current Accord, Insight, and FCEV that is being leased in California. The front features Honda’s new three-plane grille and strong facia. A character line runs from the front wheels and inverts to form strong rear fenders. The arching roofline gives the car a fastback look while concealing a large amount of cargo space. Interior photos have not been released, but I would not expect the Crosstour to venture far from the Honda norm.

Berkman continued, “We know SUV buyers like the commanding view of the road that comes with a high eye-point and like the comforts of living with an SUV. This vehicle meets the needs of buyers looking for those attributes yet at the same time want an image that is different from a conventional SUV.”

As a premium version of the Accord, Crosstour will occupy a space at the top of the model’s hierarchy in terms of luxury, space, and price. It should be exactly what a generation of upwardly mobile trendsetters requires. Final prices will be released when the car goes on sale later this fall, but expect the Crosstour to start around $26,000 and top out near $40,000 fully-optioned.

Lexus RX 2010 – Lexus Ups the Ante With A Totally New RX

by Kelly Foss – www.car-data.com

The Lexus RX, to a certain degree, defined the luxury SUV/CUV market. This car-based vehicle is an excellent combination of Lexus luxury and dependability, good looks and versatility. Now, we have a totally new RX from Lexus.

When we first saw the new RX, it looked remarkably similar to the past generation and we asked the Lexus PR people why? Normally, when you redesign and introduce a model, it usually looks different. With some confidence they informed us that the current owners really liked the looks of the RX so they decided to make only slight alterations to its appearance. The RX is the best selling of all Lexus models and is the top seller in the midsize luxury SUV segment so who can argue with their logic.

Two RX models, the RX350 and the RX450h are offered. The 350 is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 and its 275 horsepower are more than enough to get you a speeding ticket if you’re not observant. The 450h is the hybrid model containing Lexus’ latest hybrid technology. Fuel economy is now rated at 28 city and 27 highway which is an 8% – 12% increase, while system horsepower has been boosted to 295. Both models are available with all wheel drive if desired.

The RX’s ride is both controlled and supple. We had the chance to drive the vehicle over winding 2 lane hill country roads and on a freeway cruise. The vehicle is very comfortable yet offers secure handling. The interior has been quieted which is a challenge for an SUV. Their open interior architecture tends to reverberate sound like an echo chamber.

Lexus has upgraded the safety systems of the vehicle. Active safety is improved with better stability and traction capability, optional radar cruise control and pre-safe systems. Additionally, the body of the vehicle has been strengthened and the air bag suite now includes knee airbags for the front passengers.

New technology abounds in the RX. You can pair up to 4 Bluetooth phones and download your contact list to the RX. The audio system can also play music from your smart phone using Bluetooth. The RX also offer dual rear entertainment system screens positioned on the seatbacks of the front seats. XM NavTraffic and NavWeather give you real-time traffic conditions and nationwide current weather reports for any location you choose.

The navigation system’s display screen has been place closer to the windshield and out of reach of the occupants. Lexus has added a joystick controller mounted between the front seats that looks and works like a computer mouse. The movement is intuitive and easy to control, unlike the frustrating experiences that owners of expensive German cars have with their similar devices.

The Lexus RX is improved by every measure and should continue its sales success.

Review: Acura TSX

By Russ Heaps - MyCarData

You have to start somewhere. For luxury marques that usually means offering at least one automobile that is affordable enough to lure first-time luxury buyers into the brand. Often compromises are made to achieve that entry-level price point. Those compromises take many forms such as simply putting lipstick on a model from a sister division; using smaller, less sophisticated engines; or offering fewer standard amenities. No matter the avenue taken, an image problem often results. That’s where the last generation Acura TSX found itself. Although a perfectly capable automobile, it was never completely convincing as an Acura. Acura redesigned the TSX for 2009 with a goal of making it a better fit within the family. For the most part, it was successful.

Rare is the redesign that doesn’t involve upsizing. No doubt there is some psychological explanation for it, but typically we equate bigger with better. Why else would nearly every new generation of a vehicle be bigger than those that have gone before? In the case of the redesigned TSX, super sizing is a better description of its growth spurt than just upsizing. The distance between wheels on the same axle (track) is wider by 2.6 inches while the wheelbase stretches an extra 1.4 inches. Its exterior is 2.2 inches longer and 3 inches wider than last year’s version. It is also about half an inch taller at the roofline. Marginally larger, luggage capacity is up from 12.6 cu.-ft. to just over 13 cu.-ft. It should follow that such increases in iron would translate into a hefty weight gain, but not so much for the TSX. Curb weight is up less than 150 pounds to 3,486.

Gone are the rather vanilla styling cues, replaced by a more sculpted lines. The grille includes the familial chrome knife-blade. A defined beltline runs from the chiseled front fender blister along the side continuing up to the trunk lid and around to the other side. Generally creases replace the soft corners on the previous TSX. Reshaped tail lights play a part in adding to the more upscale appearance.

Inside, Acura retained the dual-pod layout up front. The basic flow of the dashboard remains as well; however, the new look relies less on bright accents. The mix of materials is more sophisticated and elegant. A dizzying array of buttons, knobs and controls clog up the center stack. Keep the owner’s manual handy. My test TSX was the $32,775 edition that includes the Technology Package. There is also a $29,675 base version. Both models feature dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt-telescoping steering wheel, eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, four-way power passenger seat, leather seating, power accessories, and a seven-speaker audio system with CD player, auxiliary input jack and USB port.

Well bolstered, the front seats snug around their occupants. The 60/40 split rear seat folds down creating more cargo space. Overall the interior space is generous and all but the tallest rear-seat passengers should be quite comfortable.

For the $3,100 premium the Technology Package commands, comes not only the same navigation system as higher-priced Acuras with real-time traffic and weather, but it also includes an advanced Elliot Scheiner-designed 10-speaker surround sound system with a six-disc CD changer, eight-inch subwoofer and voice recognition. XM satellite radio is also included in the package. In this XM application there is a note feature that allows you to store the name, 10 seconds of the song, the XM station on which it appeared and a time stamp for up to 30 songs. So if you hear a song you want to remember, you just hit a button and it’s saved for future recall.

Despite its larger size, the new TSX retains its athleticism. Once again this is achieved through a superbly matched powertrain and a well-balanced suspension. A new four-banger powers the TSX. Displacement is the same 2.4-liters, but horsepower is down four ponies to 201. Peak torque is up a few pound feet, but it arrives earlier in the rpm band for improved mid-range power. Available for hustling engine output to the front wheels is either a six-speed manual or a no-extra-charge five-speed automatic transmission. The automatic has a manual mode with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. Fuel economy is essentially unchanged with an EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the manual. The automatic gains two additional mpg on the highway.

Acura has built more strength into the frame and body. The result is not only a quieter cabin, but enhanced control. This sedan responds well to the throttle, running true on the straights and cornering with a tenacious grip. The four-wheel independent suspension is tuned more toward the handling end of the spectrum, but ride quality is still very good. The steering is light and responsive. All in all, the last TSX was fun to drive and the 2009 is no disappointment.

Here’s the bottom line: If you liked the 2008 TSX, you will like the redesigned 2009. It is still priced right, fun to drive and shares the Acura cachet. And unlike the previous generation, it seems more at home in the Acura family.

Kia Forte LPI Hybrid – Kia’s 1st Hybrid

Kia Motors unveiled its first commercialized hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), the Forte Liquid Petroleum Injection (LPI) Hybrid.

The Forte LPI Hybrid is the newest addition to Kia’s widely acclaimed Forte family (known as ‘All-new Cerato’ in some markets), which includes both gasoline-powered 4-door sedan and sporty KOUP versions. Kia Motors invested KRW 240 billion (approximately USD 180 million) over a period of 25 months to develop the eco-friendly Forte LPI Hybrid.

Boasting powerful driving performance and a superior fuel efficiency rating of 17.8 km/?,(approximately 42 miles per gallon) the Forte LPI Hybrid answers consumer demand for environmentally friendly vehicles that are exciting and fun to drive. Additionally, with CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km, the Forte LPI Hybrid qualifies for billing as a Super Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

The new car utilizes a 1.6-liter Gamma LPI engine with an independently developed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and hybrid system, comprising an electric motor, inverter, converter and 180V lithium ion polymer battery.

Although no plans to market this vehicle in overseas markets have been finalized, feasibility studies are being conducted to assess consumer interest and potential demand in markets that possess liquid petroleum refueling infrastructure.

Forte Hybrid LPI System
Both the engine and electric motor are activated when the ignition is turned on but only the engine will run when cruising. When decelerating, the car utilizes a special regenerative braking function to convert energy that is normally lost into electricity that can be stored in the battery.

The hybrid system is also equipped with Kia’s Idle Stop and Go (ISG) function, which automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is idle to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions. ISG functions when the driver applies the brakes after running the car for more than two seconds at speeds of 9km/h or higher.

Another key feature found in the Forte LPI Hybrid is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for hybrid cars which, together with the 1.6 Gamma LPI engine, delivers powerful performance and fuel savings. The hybrid-unique CVT is also equipped with a special E-gear (Eco Drive) that makes automatic adjustments to ensure maximum fuel efficiency.

Additional Eco-Friendly Features
The Forte LPI Hybrid retains the sporty and dynamic styling of the existing Forte gasoline sedan, a representative work of Kia’s emerging dynamic design language, while adding aerodynamic elements to minimize drag and improve fuel economy.

The application of a front/rear bumper skirt, aluminum wheels and garnish-type rear spoiler, in addition to the use of an exclusive cover for the lower part of the engine room and center floor, result in lowered air resistance of 0.26 Cd, compared to 0.29 Cd for the gasoline-powered Forte.

The vehicle’s full-digital SuperVision gauge cluster relays critical information to the driver and includes an “Eco Guide” function which encourages the driver with an “Eco Driving Point” icon to adjust fuel consumption and drive more sustainably.

Source Kia Motors MyCarData

Review: Dodge Viper Survives

By Casey Williams – MyCarData

Before Chrysler entered, and then exited, bankruptcy, Chrysler made it clear that it intended to sell the Dodge Viper business to anybody with a big checkbook. Then, Fiat and Uncle Sam took control of the company. It seems there’s been a change of heart. Like the many times Chevrolet’s Corvette has narrowly escaped the grim reaper, Viper may be getting another lease on life.

“The Dodge Viper has successfully captured the hearts and imagination of performance enthusiasts around the globe,” said Mike Accavitti, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “We’re extremely proud that the ultimate American-built sports car with its world-class performance will live on as the iconic image leader for the Dodge brand.”

Viper was introduced as a concept car during the 1989 North American International Auto Show in Detroit as a modern interpretation of the iconic Shelby Cobra. It was simple, but roared down the road with a V-10 engine. New models rove Interstates with an 8.4-litre V-10 that generates a scary 600-horsepower, can rip off 0-60 mph runs in under four seconds, and take the quarter-mile in the low 12-second range. GM builds nearly 35,000 Corvettes annually, but the exclusive Viper has been replicated only about 25,000 times since its debut.

The Viper was originally developed in the days of K-cars to prove Chrysler could not only design beautiful cars, but cars that could run with the world’s best. The styling and passion that surrounded Viper spread to other models like the Dodge Intrepid, Chrysler Crossfire, and Dodge Challenger. Chrysler is again going through tough times – times that need a boost from a V-10-powered supercar. For now, the Viper survives. Apparently, the Italian leaders at Fiat have some gasoline in their veins.

Review: Kia Soul – Smart, small and fun

By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman - MyCarData

Who knew a few years ago that little boxes on wheels would by the end of the decade be all the rage, at least in one corner of the automotive market — that automakers would start thinking “inside the box” in North America.

Granted, we’ve had the funky little square Scion xB on our shores since 2004, and the Europeans and Japanese have been driving squares with windows for years. But here in the good old US of A we’ve stuck to more shapely little creatures when it comes to sub-compact hatches and sedans.

But given a taste of success with Toyota’s Scion brand and Honda’s extremely boxy, but slightly bigger Element — sold in impressive numbers since it was introduced in 2003 — the Japanese and South Koreans figured it was time to start piling on.

The really interesting thing to us with this emerging trend is that, unlike many new design exercises, form does not trump function. In fact, these little squares — even if Nissan insists on calling theirs a “Cube” — no matter how hip they appear to the younger generation are imminently functional.

They are some of the most user-friendly cars built in decades — small and fuel efficient squeezing every conceivable ounce of cargo and passenger room from a sub-compact platform while delivering gas mileage measured in the 30s on the cheapest 87 octane.
And as icing on this automotive cake, they are generally fun to drive and easy to maneuver in the daily chores of life.

We’ve been raving about the new retro muscle cars, the Camaro, Challenger and Mustang, over the past few months. But perhaps more important in this time of economic hardship and growing concern over fuel consumption — not to mention the new escalation in pump prices — these vehicles deliver everything a small family needs including a well-equipped price of under 20 grand.

Just a few short months ago we drove the stylish B-segment 2010 Kia Soul in the equally stylish South Beach area of Miami and down through Key Largo and Key West. We don’t know if the flat terrain and crowded roadways of South Florida was the place for a test drive, but we enjoyed the scenery and went with the flow.

The one thing we did learn, and maybe this was just the reason we were where we were, is the little Kia was a breeze to move in and out of traffic, and easily ran with anything we encountered on the road. All-in-all an enjoyable ride, one that proved out the excellent handling of the Soul from Seoul.
Additionally we just finished a week-long experience with the Soul; a totally different type of experience than the initial one day test drives in Miami.

And we will admit up front that we had steeled ourselves to seven days of small car driving. But to our surprise, the Soul was far from small car drudgery. It was fun to drive and fun to be seen in as well. It elicited smiles just about everywhere we went.

Actually, the Soul isn’t quite as boxy as others, perhaps an optical illusion, with some interesting curves, big fender flares and a squared-off rear with its almost square hatch surrounded by large light panels; so we looked good too.

Like other entries in this unique segment, its wheels are pushed to the corners giving it a 100-inch wheelbase to get the most usability out of its diminutive 162-inch length.
The interior is impressive especially considering Kia is known for straight-forward and simple layouts that are pretty dull. While the Soul uses many bits and pieces from the Kia parts bin, they are used in interesting combinations together with — at least in our top trim level Sport model — a very appealing two-tone red and black dashboard, door panels, and seat fabrics.

The center stack flows down in pod fashion, jutting out for easy reach of climate and audio controls. At the top of the pod is a large speaker enclosure and below that a storage bin. The thing here is that the dashboard and interior trim work well together. Controls, as in other Kia products, are simple and easy to use. And they feel good to the touch.

We are big on satellite radio readouts, which offer such useful information as artist and song title. The Kia readout is top notch and also offers at a glance outside temperature and time.

There are numerous interesting features available that elevate the little car above others. They include a glove box door big enough to hold a laptop computer, door bins that include a useable drink holder that puts the bottle or can in perfect reach of the driver, and lighted door-mounted audio speakers that pulse to the beat of the music. But the most useful feature for us during a Saturday morning shopping trip to a couple of produce stands was a partitioned cargo tray under the rear floor.

We had purchased three watermelons at one stand, which were rolling around in back like bowling balls, making our next purchase of tomatoes, squash, okra and strawberries susceptible to being crushed before we made it home.

No worry. We pushed the melons out of the way, lifted the cargo lid, and placed the fruit and vegetables in the safety of separate compartments.

While there is only 19.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the seats, it expands to 53 cubic feet when the seats are folded.
More impressive is the rear passenger space. The Soul features scads of rear-seat legroom and comfortable accommodations for two riders, although three can squeeze together for short trips.

The Soul comes with two engine choices and four trim levels — two strangly named — starting at $13,995 for the base model. It’s the only model to get the 1.6-liter 122-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. Standard on the base are 15-inch wheels, air conditioning, full power equipment, and a four-speaker sound system with CD and MP3.

We recommend moving up at least one level to the “+” adding the bigger 2.0-liter 142-horsepower 4-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual transmission for a base price of $15,645. For that outlay you will also get 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, steering-wheel mounted controls, upgraded audio and cruise control.

The “!” trim and the top Sport trim bring even more goodies topping out at the Sport with four-speed automatic at $18,595.

We found the bigger engine mated to the manual transmission lively, but to get the most out of it and approach its 8.8-second measured 0- to-60 time you must let it run into the upper reaches of the rev band.

We found the Soul entertaining in most driving situations with decent road feel and a compliant ride. This included runs on back country roads with definitive changes in elevation; far different than our flat ride in Miami.

The manual shifter was a bit spongy, but clutch feel was good. The automatic which we drove in Florida was more than adequate and fairly smooth.

Our top line Sport test car with manual transmission included one option, a $700 power sunroof. Bottom line was $18,345. Like the Scion and other cars in this segment, dealer-installed specialty options are available in large numbers.

We like the Soul. We think it is one of Kia’s best efforts ever. It’s not just for the young it’s also for the young at heart. Now if we just understood the Hamster commercials.

Review: Volkswagen Touareg TDI – Clean Diesel is Good Clean Fun

By Kelly Foss – MyCarData

Volkswagen is obviously doing something right. Globally, they are the world’s #3 automaker and in the 1st quarter of 2009, they outsold everyone, including Toyota, to be the top selling automobile manufacturer in the world!

Recently, VW has added a clean diesel, high fuel economy TDI option to their large SUV the Touareg. It is a big, roomy and very capable truck that can be fitted out in a luxurious fashion. Volkswagen has a successful and long heritage in diesel engine production. Over 50% of VW’s vehicle sales in Europe are now diesels.

The new Touareg TDI comes with a new 3.0 liter turbo diesel V6 engine. It is a modern common rail system that uses high pressure to atomize the fuel. This produces a very quiet, clean, odorless and smokeless engine.

The new 3.0 TDI engine is an aluminum 90 degree V6 with 221 horsepower and a huge 406 foot pounds of torque, all of which is available at a low 1,750 rpm’s. That kind of monster torque effortlessly pulls the substantial Touareg down the road with no hesitation thanks in part to the 6 speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This SUV will accelerate to 60 miles an hour in a respectable 8.5 seconds and still has a 7,700 pound towing capacity.

The EPA fuel economy rating is 17 city and 25 highway which is considerably less than what I experienced. During a 100 mile jaunt through the North Carolina and Virginia hilly countryside, admittedly at low speeds, my average according to the on-board trip computer was 30.2 mpg. For a luxury 5,000 pound full-time-all-wheel-drive SUV, that’s pretty amazing.

One of the reasons that a new diesel was introduced in the Touareg is because of vehicle emission regulation. This new TDI is a 50 state compliant “clean diesel”. That means that it meets all government emissions standard for every state in the country.

Apart from the diesel technology, the Touareg has many compelling features. The interior is spacious and the seating is inviting. The ride is very comfortable and controlled especially with the available air suspension. Additionally, a nice navigation system with a 30 GB hard drive is available, plus real wood interior trim, a Dynadio music system, a rear view camera and dynamic cruise control.

An omission on the Touareg is a ventilated seat option. They are neither complicated nor expensive anymore and though they might not seem important to Northern European product planners, to those of us in the southern half of the U.S. and other warm climates, they are highly desirable and an expected feature in a vehicle of this class.

The price of the TDI is $42,000 and the diesel option is a $3,500 upcharge over the gas V6 model. There is however a $1,050 Federal Government tax credit, not a deduction but a credit, along with dramatically improved fuel economy that will easily offset the TDI cost. Apart from the financial considerations, the TDI is a pleasant and enjoyable vehicle to drive.

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