Reader Reviews
Test drive something recently? This is the place to post your impressions.
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Tested 2013 Buick Verano SD sedan, MSRP about 24k 2.4l four cylinder, 6 speed automatic. This is one I have dying to get into. Verano. WTF is a Verano? (Keep in mind I am used to seeing VERONAS aplenty in various states of non operation in my previous service department). I have been seeing these everywhere! I thought new age car shoppers did not buy Buicks! Only OLD people drive them! They are so.........so......... Wait, something about this car is different. What is it exactly? GM makes everything the same way! Oh, this is from Germany? Ok, well not exactly. But the car does have its roots in the German Opel Astra.....one of Europe's most popular and most …
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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DRIVEN 2013 Cadillac ATS RWD 2.5L, Black with Carmel vinyl interior, MSRP about 33,800 HIGHS ATS is sweet looking inside and out! 2.5 has decent power, revs freely Good passing power and better than expected off the line power. Neutral handling with RWD chassis Good ride and handling balance appropriate for a base car Front row seating has nice space for legroom and width / girth Good forward visibility Attractive interior on the base model, even with the decontented headliner and vinyl seats and such Very nicely contoured seats for the base model Nice gauge cluster You can tell, the car feels very balanced, also stable and secure. Quite quiet inside and com…
Last reply by vonVeezelsnider, -
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Vehicle: 2013 Chevrolet Spark LT Colors: Blue Denim Metallic, Black Leatherette MSRP: $N/A (rental vehicle) So here I am on day #2 having a 2013 Chevrolet Spark LT rental vehicle while my wife's 2008 Pontiac G6 V6 Sedan is at the dealer for some warranty repairs (have been doing a punch list of items since early winter; the extended warranty expires in 8 days!). My choice of rental was either a 2013 Chevrolet Cruze LT sedan in black or this Denim Blue Metallic Spark LT - since the wife has been on a small car test-drive kick this year (a previous rental was a '13 Ford Fiesta), I selected the Spark. My drive home with it Monday evening on local roadways was not too ba…
Last reply by Z-06, -
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Will start with this one now and fill in / edit more later. Tested 2013 Chevy Malibu 1LT Had a chance to put a few miles on a new Malibu yesterday. I probably did not get a chance to make note of all I wanted to. But in any case, it was a good drive. I really wanted to just test an LS, but the 1LT was what was available. I enjoyed the car a lot. I think there is just enough room left for improvement and it is improved quite a bit over the 2008-2012...which now seems not as appealing in pretty much in every real way. 13 is not quite as nice as the Regal, still (engine perhaps not withstanding). ------ HIGHS -new engine revs nicely and vibrations are damped. -plenty of…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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There's a new car in my driveway! And it has new car smell! (disclaimer, it's my companies car) Full day test drive tomorrow! Got about 25 mpg with it on a 40 mile sprint tonight........
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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touched and sat in the 013 Escape today! got a couple pics will post later. Very nice looking in person. Good packaging. Engine compartment is efficient. Front seats are roomy. Rear a tad tight maybe. Overall, vehicle is larger in flesh than pics indicate. Also looks more dynamic in the flesh than pics. Interior design is Focus 3.0....similar layout, but more flashy. I thought interior plastics could be a bit nicer though. Leather and seats were stylish. Trunk decent size. Seems a little smaller inside overall than the CX5 but that is not a scientific judgment. Didn't drive it, but the exit the little SUV seemed to haul some arse....... 38 grand! the big m…
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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DRIVEN 2013 Ford Fusion 2.5 SE, MSRP, a little north of 25g (no MyFordTouch) HIGHS Aston style on the cheap! A very welcome new look for those weary of the old Fusion Big bodacious car! Feels wide, large and safe, long wheelbase Many trims and price levels, and with discounts and incentives, can be a hell of value 2.5 is tuned well for this new platform, doesn't really fall on it's face even with it being slightly aged. Tranny manipulates the car well and shifts quick, stays in powerband and doesn't hunt or any reprehensible behavior. A very nice balance of open cabin with visibility and seclusion. Views out are pretty well done mostly. Interior plastics and…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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(Here's a link to my prior test on a 2.5 automatic http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/81238-2013-ford-fusion-25-se/ ) DRIVEN 2013 Ford Fusion 1.6 Ecoboost 6MT, MSRP unknown (car was preowned with about 30k miles) included MyFord Touch HIGHS (with the highs from the prior test below additional for reference, the additional applies here to this MT unit) Good feeling and working shifter Somewhat surprising power and drivability of the tiny Ecoboost 4 Torque curve has no real peaks and valleys, just has a nice linear torque build, almost elasticky in feel, no real lag Remains quiet inside and most of the tiny turbo din is muffled Amazing that you can find a la…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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My step-son decided pretty late in the game to attend his senior prom last Friday (May 11). His original plan was to go with his friends in a stretch Chrysler 300 limo, but with his indesiciveness about attending, his friends replaced him with another couple. When he finally made the decision to go, it was too late for finding an affordable limo in short time (less than two weeks). In comes step-dad with the decision to rent a "luxury" car from Enterprise Rent-a-Car and offer my chauffer services for the evening (you must be 21 with a large fee to drive a rental car in NJ; 25 without the fee). I was hoping to end up with a Cadillac DTS or CTS, but being a holiday weeke…
Last reply by ponchoman49, -
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Tested 2013 Honda Accord Sedan Sport 4 cylinder automatic CVT, MSRP right around 25 geezels. In the interest of wanting to vet all the media gushing on the new Accord, and having sold cars who had CVT's and dealing with the public reaction daily as well as driving them myself....and as possibly thinking mid size sedan in the future...... I ended up in a shorter than i wanted test of a new 013 Accord. The previous gen Accord did not do much for me, and the combination of weird looks, cheap interior, and NVH and driving issues meant the car never interested me. And pretty much the press as a whole had begun to look away from Honda some as midsize class leader. Even th…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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Picked up my weekend drive at Enterprise a few min ago. This was there 'CTS or equivalent' luxury car. Silver, black interior w/ shiny black wood. Decent so far....leaving for So Cal in a couple of hours...
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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Had a chance to drive both the auto and stick CX-5 a couple weeks ago. There is a lot that is really cool about this vehicle. There is a couple things Mazda really effed. Overall don't believe the hype about this feeling like a sports car or anything. It's height and such still make it feel like an SUV. Actually that is the impressive thing about the vehicle. They shaved a lot of pounds from the design but yet when you sit in it and drive it, it feels like a larger, heavier crossover / SUV. It just has better steering and responsiveness from pretty much the rest. It's still not a sedan though. You will not get the sporty feel of a sedan in this vehicle. The majo…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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So the Former Stang Drives the newest stang.... Overalll.... Pluses. The fit and finish of the car I drove was fantastic....as good as anything I've seen sold today. The trunk had flawless finish inside of the trunk lid, the door jambs were flawless, the paint inside the motor bay was flawless. Interior fit together perfectly also. It also had plenty of power. However, the car felt really heavy and not terribly playful, the shifter wasn't as clean of good as a GTI, Volvo C30, or any of the other cars we drove and liked better. Seats were comfortable enough but lacked the support of the GTI seats or the better seats of several other cars I've driven. Overall, an 8…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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G. David Felt www.cheersandgears.com 2013 Nissan Altima S - Success or Failure? This review starts off sadly, with my 2008 Trailblazer SS AWD being hit in the drivers door and needing a complete replacement. SS is awesome and all fixed, but for the 3 weeks I was out of an auto, I was in this rental. Short Answer for those that want to know what I think, DO NOT BUY! Everything people complain about of 1980's and 1990's American cars is what you find on this car. Yes this is a long term rental fleet car as it had California plates and 42,785 miles when I got it. My rental allowed me to add on 1,137 miles by the time I returned it. This did include a 300 mi…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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should have it up tomorrow.
Last reply by Soku47, -
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A few weeks back, I took a still in the wrapper 2013 Subaru Outback 3.6 Limited in on trade, with just over 2900 miles. The clients had owned a 1999 Lexus RX300 for many years and many miles, and then decided after a few trials to get the Outback and specifically with the 3.6L engine "it has a lot more power, and is a lot nicer to drive" they said. But it didn't click. They have a lot of friends with Acura MDX's that sing the praises, and decided after driving one to trade it in again on the all new 2014 Acura MDX. So we now have the Outback for sale, with 3000 miles. It's an interesting package, as it has heated leather seats and the nicer audio, but a manual dimming mi…
Last reply by caddycruiser, -
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I was in So Cal the last few days for the Toyota Long Beach Grand Prix Indy Car race weekend, so it was only appropriate my rental car was a Camry. Had a white Camry w/ a black & gray two tone cloth interior. Drove about 150 miles around Long Beach and Orange County over the last few days. I had a choice of a Camry or Altima Friday night at Hertz, and I realized I'd never driven one so what the heck... Impressions: Nothing memorable. The car was perfectly functional, comfortable, smooth, quiet but really didn't leave much of an impression. Big trunk. Power seemed adequate for accelerating up the notoriously short So Cal on-ramps to the various freeways I …
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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Driven: 2014 Buick Regal FWD (base) MSRP 30,615 sale price 24,995 Note: truncated review. I've reviewed Regals previously, so this is merely an update on whatever refinements over time that have been had. past reviews http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/75027-2011-buick-regal-cxl-and-cxl-turbo-updated-with-turbo-manual/?hl=%2Bbuick+%2Bregal
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
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DRIVEN - short take review Used 2014 Cadillac CTS 2.0t AWD (20k on odometer) HIGHS -Wow! The steering! Perfect speed, awesome feel. -The ride is also pretty much spot on, it's comfy and allows some fun, too. -Car feels SOLID but not heavy. -Terrific views out of the car. Slender pillars in front. Even with the long hood, it is low and it falls away from your line of sight. -Car is just about the perfect size for a drivable fun sedan. Just big enough, not too big, not too small. -Gauges are nicely in line in front of you. They may look cheap to some but I liked the layout and liked their classical Cadillac look. -S…
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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Just turned in a weekend rental of a 2014 silver Camry SE 2.5 with automatic and black interior with painted silver contrasting. The drive- in two words mediocre and forgettable. The 2.5 was enough engine to get you there and the 6 speed shifted smoothly. Handling was a mixed bag. Steering felt like it was Novocain injected with numbness and little feedback. Driven conservatively the SE with it's 17" tires does well enough and feels somewhat sporty. But driven at the limits is where it all falls apart. The tires howl in agony and there is much body lean. braking was competent but hardly class leading. The 2.5 got up to 60 in a middling 9 seconds flat with 9,200 miles on …
Last reply by daves87rs, -
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Tested 2014 Chevy Cruze diesel automatic. (Despite the dude at the one chevy place last week saying they would not hit lots until fall) HIGHS: Walks like a Cruze, talks like a Cruze, and this one is loaded. Feels great with the tan leather on black. Snappy acceleration. Possibly the fastest Cruze they sell. Peppy off the line and good kickdown for roll on acceleration too. Mostly behaves like a gas car. Fun to see instant mpg readings in the 60's, 70's, and 80's. Is heavier than a standard Cruze but does not feel overly ponderous or lazy or anything in that regard. Feels hefty on the road. Ride and steering very middle of market and will feel quality to most, …
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN 2014 Chevy Impala 1LT 2.5 HIGHS Who can deny it's a sexy shape? STUNNER Lots of beautiful styling details if you look long enough and take notice Makes good on the promise and premise of a full sized sedan, lots of room and space, front and back and trunk This thing is definitely a great highway cruiser, in the vein of so many other GM sedans, you can be king of the cornfield states Seating all around is very comfortable Interior design is definitely flashy, good looking gauges and useful controls MyLink system has a lot of nice features Heft and solidity lacking in so many sedans these days The 4 cylinder, if set on cruise, and settled in, and …
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Touched a new 2014 today. Saw two of them on the interstate one day this week also. The new front end, in pictures does not look like it would effect much change. But in person, and seeing it in motion, it makes a huge difference in the look of the car. Well done. Through the glass, the interior changes look nice as well. The new console has a little more of a sport sedan flavor and it is very distinct from the laid back Impala. The narrowing of the front seats is noticeable visually inside the car for more leg room. But it still looks tight and the major flaw with seat mounts on the floor not getting fixed still seems half assed. Didn't drive one, want to wait t…
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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on its way bear with me DRIVEN slightly used 2014 Chevy Traverse LS FWD, not sure the MSRP HIGHS Snappy powertrain. Transmission shifts quick and finds the right gear, engine doesn't really have too much of a flat spot and revs nicely in this rig. Good passing power. Good driving position, passenger too. Good view out the front and not much hood to look over. Comfortable front row seats. Nice and wide for AMURCHAN butts. Feels decently carlike, for its size. Definitely not trucky like a Trailblazer. Steering that is neither too slow or too fast. And feels not too bad. Ride and bumps are nicely absorbed yet there is still a little feel. Not nois…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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A swiss army knife in a really big box. Makes a great case for the modern 'mini'van. DRIVEN 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT (rental, amassed about 500 miles). No idea what the MSRP was, guessing close to 30k. HIGHS Pentastar is a Rock Star. Fabulous engine. Kicks down great, linear power. Cruises smooth. Pentastar is a Track Star. Vehicle chews up and spits out miles. If you need more room and space, then I don't know what to tell ya. Extended console creates a cockpit feel in a van, and the dash layout it great. Dash mounted shifter quickly becomes second nature, and functions quite well. SXT finally gives you the ability to customize your seatin…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Tested 2014 Fiat 500L Easy, MT and automatic -----more later------
Last reply by ocnblu, -
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---to post later --- short version AVOID
Last reply by Hengista, -
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Well, it is coming time to purchase a newer vehicle. The trucks are rough on fuel and starting to show their age and miles. My goals are something room, AWD, and fuel efficient. I had an 07 Patriot with the 5 speed manual that I loved, so i figured, why not give the updated versions a tr? it also gave me a chance to tr the only transmission choice i hadn't yet, the 6 speed auto. Anyway, here we go! 2015 Jeep patriot Sport AWD. Options: AC, AUTO, power windows/locks, all weather package (tow hooks, 17 inch rims with Goodyear Wrangler SRA tires, tow package, all weather floormats). 30k miles. The overall condition was excellent, no scratches …
Last reply by Stew, -
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getting there - edit TESTED 2014 Mazda CX-9 AWD Sport, MSRP around 33k, best price around 28 and change HIGHS Still among the sportiest looking 3 row crossovers. New beak makes it really stylish. Snappy powertrain, even without many gears. Throaty exhaust. Man, does she handle nice! for a crossover. Drives like a sedan that sits taller Feels a lot smaller than its competition, not at all intimidating to drive Nice cockpit and gauges Great value in this config, had power seats, heated seats and dual AC...for many thou less than others with these two items Sliding second row seats make most of every inch of leg room depending on your situation Ever…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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no drive, but touched em at two separate dealers. Hatchbacks. Car looks good mostly but to me the proportions are out of whack with the seemingly long hood and not so long passenger cabin. Some of this is likely trickery as the side swoop and the hood basically going over the bumper still doesn't keep some of the windshield from encroaching on the front axle line. But overall, the side profile looks very uncomfortable for a front drive car. You could say they are trying to emulate a rear drive BMW in its proportions. The shape is nice mostly but I think it lacks definition. Looks a bit blobbish. Or European, take your pick. What I could see through the glass abou…
Last reply by PONTIAC06, -
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Checked one out! Obviously, can't drive it. But here is what I thought about it. Strong looking, has presence. Sort of predatory in the front. Large car. Very much cabin rear. Inside, very well done. If you have been in a CX-5, and have seen the pictures of the new interior, then you have a very accurate idea of what it is like. It is like a combination of a BMW interior and an Accord or other similar Japanese car. I would say the interior is better than the new Accord and pretty much all the others, despite some hard plastic that manages to avoid looking cheap. Ergonomics appear to be spot on across the board, especially the memory seat locations, the steering…
Last reply by frogger, -
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DRIVEN 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander ES AWD MSRP 27235 (actual price 22235) HIGHS -Price and Value + Warranty -Feels solid, substantial and stable and well built -Spacious first and second row for the class -Bonus (small) third row for the times it is handy -Second row adjust fore and aft as well as fold -Simple and legible dash and controls, good driving position -Plastic and interior materials that looks cheap in photos is actually not too bad -Good fit and finish all around -Nice steering wheel and SWAC -Nice trucky personality -Rides like a bigger vehicle -Nice alternative to the junky feeling CRV -Is a nice way for someone stepping down from a larger, more…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Tested 2013 Nissan Altima SV sedan 2.5, MSRP roughly 25k Had to. Drove the Accord last week, the midsize segment is on fire with new entries. As you know, the Honda failed to win my endorsement due to NVH issues. But the 13 Accord has a new CVT...that was not the problem. Honda still makes their cars too loud and noisy, etc. The 13 Altima in nearly every way, shape and form is the most analogous to the new Accord. And the Altima itself is a market juggernaut. Sales and leasing, the Altima has been in the top of the sales charts for several years now. For 2013, Nissan chose not to mess with success, but did concentrate on worthwhile improvements all around the car to ma…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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------writeup coming later today----------- "Automotive death on four wheels, with a new funeral suit, and a larger, more spacious casket" Is this really the case? Check back later......
Last reply by frogger, -
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review coming. here is the review I did back in 2012 http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/76589-2012-vw-passat-tdi-sel-and-gas-se/?hl=passat
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chuggin
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Well, had to go with my brother to pick up his car at the dealership Wed and he got a rental car to take us down. They had originally given him an Impala Limited, but he had been trying to get a new 200 for about a year. They told him they were detailing it and he could trade the next morning. Basics: 2015 200 limited. 39000 rental miles. It was pretty basic in features by today's standards but still had a backup camera and power driver's seat. Exterior: Even in basic white in the basic model the 200 is still a striking car. I love all the detailing, he LED running lights, and especially the rear stling Interior: I really liked the interior. It …
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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So, my brother finally found the perfect replacement for his A5 and we went and picked it up last night. it is a completely loaded 2015 ATS Premium with the performance package and every option available. Only 4900 miles. It has the 3.6 V6/6 speed auto, AWD, full suite of safety tech and luxury features. has the full performance package too, complete with Brembo brakes and Magnetic ride control. Anyway, here we go. My brother picked me up when i got off work at 6. We got in the Audi and headed off for one last journey. I just took the passenger seat this time since i need to rest some and I figured since it is his car \he should have the last hurrah.…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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HIGHS: Sexy looks Price and value at this trim level Surprised that I liked the improved interior Six cylinders came standard GIRTHY wide cabin and comfortable seats Ride wasn't bonecrushing punishing at least Nice view out the front and good side mirror visibility (despite the squashed roof) Roof did feel squashed but not as severe as I feared Not quiet inside, but not excessively loud. Cupholders, nice setup LOWS Shifter a bit notchy. I would not get this car with a stick.....stick...with the automatic Hard to drive smoothly (unless you own the car for a few weeks first I imagine) Lots of business and effort to just get it to drive smoothly. Engine so…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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This past Fri-Mon I had a '15 Malibu LT for a rental, picked it up in Columbus, Ohio and drove to various places in Eastern Ohio and Western Pa, in and around Pittsburgh and east to Monroeville and the PA turnpike a bit. I'd driven a few of the previous generation Malibus ('08-12), but this was the first of the current generation I'd driven. Interior impressions: well equipped, all the expected cabin features in a midsize car. Hard plastics on the doors and dash, but nice to look at--brown and light tan two tone. I like the brown. Good HVAC controls w/ dual zone climate, etc. Gauges well positioned and easy to read. I liked the blue lighting behind the chrom…
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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Just picked this up for my weekend road trip to LA. Initial impressions--huge, quiet, smooth, comfortable, hard to see out of (esp. towards the rear). More notes to come. Update: Had a good weekend w/ this truck. Drove on a variety of freeways, 2 lanes, winding mountain roads, cities and small towns in Central/Northern AZ and So Cal. Impressions: All in all, a very good road trip vehicle...lots of cubbies and storage areas inside, power supply points, usb sockets, etc. Great ergonomics and seating position. Felt and drove very car-like, not truckish at all. My previous GM full size experience was a weekend w/ a Yukon a couple years ago, on some of t…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Posts in this category are only visible to Admins and Editor/Reporter. This post is meant to be treated as a Wiki and Members of both groups can and should update this with new information as needed. Press Days: 01/12/2015 - 01/13/2015 Credentials: Arrived Drew's planned travel days: 01/11/2015 - 01/14/2015 Model Debut Spreadsheet: Google Docs (only Drew, Michael, and William can access) (3 truck debuts?) Press Release Schedule: Updated in the Google Docs above or the official press release schedule here. Banner Items: Completed by Dodgefan in mid November Accommodations: Reservation confirmed to rent a 4 bedroom home. It has enough room that William can crash ther…
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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DRIVEN: 2015 Ford Edge AWD Titanium 2.0 msrp around 43,500 HIGHS: Retains the spot on take of the large crossover segment it invented and takes it to a grand new place Exterior styling not a big departure from the past recipe but its still fresh and new, its 'Crossover 2015' Front row is a great place to be, lots of comfort, space, girth, and a great view out the living room window Perfect, and I do mean that, perfect seat height and location for a vehicle like this..... Solid and stable ride, its a grand chariot and you sit back, enjoy the view, and eat up a whole bunch of miles Lots of toys in that big MSRP......huge moonro…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: 2015 Ford Escape SE FWD 1.6t Ecoboost, MSRP about 26,200 HIGHS: Not at all like the older Escapes we probably rode in or drove at one time in the past Fluid shape that many will like compared to boxier offerings A crossover can feel somewhat athletic on the road? This does... Because of nicely weighted and quick steering coupled with composed suspension and handling The engine joins in the fun, the 1.6t has a nice little torque burst, revs out nicely, and is quite smooth The transmission is well mated to the engine and kicks in quickly to help the fun Most cars in this price range these days don't even feel connected as much as this ....SUV VERY quie…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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its comin DRIVEN 2015 Ford Explorer XLT 202 pkg 4wd, MSRP close or over 40k. HIGHS Grandiose feel of mass in the front of the vehicle. Vehicle is wide also, has hips. Panoramic view, ok, majestic view out the front. Comfortable and solid seating, each row. Excellent head room, hip room, shoulder room. Third row is more usable than you would think based upon sight. Nice dash and console layout........(this comment does not apply if MyFordTouch is installed) Feels quite solid. Stable and secure. Heavy, even. Moreso than most others in the segment. Gives an impression of quality. Decently quiet inside. Styling that has obviously been popular.…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: 2015 Ford Focus SE 1.0 Ecoboost 6MT hatch, msrp a tish over 20k (my fave colors for Ford, Tectonic and stone interior) HIGHS: Sleek hatchback shape New physical controls in center stack for climate, radio, etc, overall nice dash layout and gauges, driver oriented Nice plastics with the dark and light in most places, stone interior really lightens up the interior Nicely composed and quiet for an econocar at speed, feels solid and stable Finally gets a six speed! Very good shifter, snick, snick Feels exactly like the Fusion MT, same powerband, same road feel, just a smaller version NO vibration from the powertrain. Seems impossible, but almost entirely…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN 2015 Honda CR-v AWD LX HIGHS Engine plus CVT can deliver great scoot ........when you lean hard on the throttle CVT might actually be the best of such a breed, compared to earlier CVT's, responsive Sufficient cabin girth and front row room Rear seat space is alright for this class too Surprising cargo space with and without the rear seat down Innocuous, if that is your sort of thing Feminine, if that is your sort of thing Cheap and tinny, if that is your sort of thing EPA ratings are pretty good i guess Honda whores out the leases so you are ok there Some parts of the newly revised dash feel soft to the touch Rear cargo latches to dump the rear sea…
Last reply by JessiFox, -
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I went in to test drive a new HRV and then decided, nah. I can't do this. I am sitting here drinking their free coffee now and eating their free cookies though at least Hondaphiles are all over this place and are like stink on sh-- all over the HRV. This thing will sell like hot cakes.
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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DRIVEN: 2015 Hyundai Genesis RWD 3.8, msrp around 38k. No options, i believe HIGHS: Looks good on its own, but especially for a Hyundai Big car chassis and RWD, a rarity these days, and in that regard, at a decent price Wide and long, low center of gravity, we need more cars to come back to this Feeling of heft and being anchored to the road Engine has some guts to it......steps down alright when you gas it. Nice muted snarl Simple interior layout and hints at luxury that exists in other marques Nice interior convenience features Lots of features and tech, including 4g Leather is nice and has nice stitching Seats were firm and supportive Decent view out …
Last reply by frogger, -
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-coming up-
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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(edit: down several posts is the review----here http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/84699-2015-jeep-renegade/page-3#entry763643 ) ----- note: I went to get my first oil change on my new Town and Country and the dship had a new Renegade on the showfloor. After checking it out, I intend to take a test drive soon. I didn't realize it would have the option for a stick, and on both FWD and AWD. Otherwise the 2.4 engine will sell the most since that is how you get an automatic. So this for now is just an impression on sitting in it and seeing it in person, and especially with it right next to the lame Compass, I can tell you what looks cheeky and cartooni…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: 2015 Mazda Mazda3 Sport 2.0 MT, msrp 19,265 (no options) HIGHS: Attractive and intimate driver cockpit, simple, ergonomic, and somewhat reminiscent of a BMW or Audi design inside. Comfortable drivers chair, and more cabin girth than you'd expect. All controls well laid out. Touchscreen with secondary control wheel and pushbutton start included in sport trim 2.0 has pep and goes about its business with 'just enough' power for most, while not being offensive from the smoothness standpoint. Power delivery is VERY linear. Manual trans shifter, while not 'sublime', falls into line of 'very good' and with what you would expect from advance billing Despite not having a…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Just wanted to post a few thoughts on the local auto show....what's the best forum to do that in these days?
Last reply by regfootball, -
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TESTED: 2015 Subaru Legacy AWD 2.5i Premium MSRP 25,045 HIGHS -a natural and successful evolution of the.....successful previous generation. If you liked the last one, you will like this one -significant powertrain enhancements with the CVT, power delivery, fuel economy, and general drivability. -impressive CVT functioning. It really is ok to own a car with a CVT now! Simulated stepped automatic works well, and overall a lot of folks may not be able to tell the difference from a traditional automatic. -interior, which looks dreadful and cheap in pictures, is actually fairly decent and a bit of an upgrade over the previous model -evolved styling is a bit…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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We'll make this 2 for 2 here, and just cut to the chase. The car was rather underwhelming. I might expand more on this one later, as I don't have a bunch of time right now. I've been wanting to drive a new gen WRX or STI pretty badly, as I was actually slightly considering one. No longer. I just don't see where Subaru gets off charging 35K base on these things. I'll summarize this one with a 'Highs' and 'Lows' break down. Highs- *Steering- Very nicely weighted, precise, lots of feel. It was VERY reminiscent of my E90's steering. *Sound- That trademark guttural Subaru growl and burble is present and accounted for. Love it. *Shifter- Very short, positive…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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--------- DRIVEN: 2016 Chevrolet Cruze 1LT 1.4t automatic (all new model) MSRP around 24,700 Includes technology package and sun and sound package HIGHS: -Ride....PLUSH -QUIET inside...OMG quiet for this class of car -good OOMPH from the fairly smooth 1.4t, which really has some of the character of the current 1.4, that is to say no lag and a willingness to rev (just smoother and much less noisy / buzzy). -TRANSMISSION is nicely responsive to the turbo. It takes some gas pedal sometimes, but mostly on the spot. -HANDSOME interior. Comes off as tidy, handsome, classy, attractive. Dash, doors, console, etc.....no issues on any plastics, and the dash cloth eve…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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EDIT- SCROLL DOWN a few posts for the test drive. This is cheating a bit , not really a full review. But I just checked out a new CX-9, and boy that thing is (pardon the impression) sweet as balls. Having looked at a new Cadillac XT5 just a few days ago too, I am not sure why you'd spend much more for the Cadillac. Interior is really sweet on the CX-9 and packaging and space is great. All 3 rows. Looks nice, crazy low prices if you consider the ludicrous prices of some other brand SUV's. Easily this thing would whoop a new Lilliputian Acadia for same or less $$$. At a minimum far more style and execution for interiors than rival Japanese makers.
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN 2016 Buick Envision Premium I 2.0t AWD 15k miles HIGHS -One of the more favorable impressions of me with the oft used 2.0t in a GM vehicle. A very strong point on this vehicle. It fit the character of the vehicle well. Smooth, nice power and torque, and tranny behaved well. It sort of changed my impression of that powertrain as it seemed to fit here better as opposed to being in a 'sport sedan'. -Comfy seats (with nice leather and design), this is supposed to be what Buick is for. And feels very solid. -Quiet cabin, this is supposed to be what Buick is for. -Supple ride and very smooth steering, this is supposed to be what Buick…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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This is a cheesy write up but i checked out an Envision in the flesh. (By the way, huge Verano incentives now). Was not fortunate enough to get into it, but I can comment on how it looks. Looks pretty good. Front end is a little bland and dated. Was parked next to a Terrain and it's noticeably shorter, less wide, and not as tall. But the size of it yes pretty much falls into line with the compact CUV competition, like the MKC. A look through the window, the interior looks good, particularly the seats, leather, soft surfaces, the center armrest / console / stack. Gazing in the window, it looks like there is good use of space, it looks efficient. Rear leg spa…
Last reply by ocnblu, -
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TESTED:2016 Cadillac ATS sedan 2.0t 8AT AWD Luxury, MSRP 45,000 and change Note: offered this test drive as an alternate / move up to the used Volt i went in to test drive. Offered as a sample due to a service loaner demo with a 'great lease deal'!! Disclaimer: i don't drive many luxury cars so my proper frame of reference is not great. I typically review vehicles as daily drivers. Prior similar test drive: http://www.cheersandgears.com/topic/81073-2013-cadillac-ats-25l-rwd/?hl=%2Bcadillac+%2Bats Since i am not really in the luxury car market, than this test drive may seem a little odd. But I am a GM fan and since i hadn't driven the AWD turbo ATS, I sa…
Last reply by Suaviloquent, -
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DRIVEN: 2016 Cadillac CT6 Luxury 3.6 AWD (Used vehicle review) originally 63k msrp. HIGHS: Yup, this is my type of car, I got in and felt right at home. To heck with crossovers! Surprisingly I had a very positive vibe of the interior and it's quality. Sure it may not 100% match some Germans but honestly it was fine in the front and quite honestly better than what a lot of Cadillacs have had for interiors in the last 20-30 years. And a quiet interior. Hushed for road noise, like a luxury brand should be....an obvious upgrade vs. non luxury marques. And so comfortable! Seats were a glove and the cockpit around me was there just for me. I liked the l…
Last reply by riviera74, -
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We got our first Camaro in yesterday, a Nightfall Gray over Kalahari 8AT 2SS w/ no options. Suffice to say, after all the reviews and positive press, I've been dying to drive one. And I'm happy that we got an SS in as our first car. Of course, I would have loved for it to have been a manual, but I'll take what I can get. More on that in a minute. Starting with the outside, pictures don't do this car justice. Not to how good it looks in the first place, or even how different from the 5th Gen car it looks. There are much more sophisticated design elements at work here than it's predecessor. Think of it as the old design shrunk down to 9/10's, pulled taught over it's ske…
Last reply by oldshurst442, -
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NOTES / EDIT: 2.0 and hybrid test drives further down Driven: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu 1LT 1.5, MSRP= 26,790? HIGHS: -RIGHT SIZE interior for the class.....consider the interior space / leg room issues fixed, six footers fit in the back even. Head, leg, hip, shoulders, all the room you need. -Greatly changed center stack no longer is a leg intruder. Room to SPLAY. -NOT A BUNKER. Airy cabin with good views out the front, side, and back -Quiet cabin. Muffles the engine din reasonably well and keeps road and tire noise out, more than you'd expect in this class. -As an example, bumps of any kind do not transmit large 'thunks' into the cabin, even on railroad…
Last reply by cp-the-nerd, -
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DRIVEN: 2016 Chevy Sonic LT 1.4 turbo 6AT sedan. MSRP was a little bit below 20g. It's pretty amazing i had not yet driven a Sonic. I usually find a way to test most of Chevy's newer car lineup and so therefore the fact that i put this off so long is a big surprise. HIGHS: -Chevy nails the styling with the Sonic. It's unique both within Chevy and for it's econocar class. A lot of presence and very tasteful. -Compact outside, relatively space efficient inside for its overall size. GM doesn't do packaging efficiency well very often! -Getting in and out easier in the Sonic than other compacts and subcompacts. -Lots of headroom and more upright seating than …
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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I had a '16 Malibu LS in Ohio for a few days a couple of weeks ago. Black w/ black cloth interior. All in all, a pleasant drive. Seemed to have plenty enough power on Ohio freeways and around Columbus and some small towns Pros: Revised dash and center stack makes the cockpit seem more open, more spacious Looks like more rear leg room than the previous generation (longer wheelbase) Interior plastics are a mix of hard and soft touch, w/ some simulated stitching and fabric on the dash, which I thought was unusual. Ample trunk room Very quiet Start/stop feature was smooth and unobtrusive Good outward visibility even w/ fastback styling Cons: Couldn't figure…
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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I've been a fan of the current Fusion's slick styling since it came out, but I hadn't had an opportunity to drive one until this past week, Wed through Sunday, from Hertz at the Pittsburgh Airport. Dark red, gray 'cloth' interior (not a fuzzy/fabric-y cloth, but more artificial feeling). Got to drive it in city traffic in downtown Pittsburgh and Cleveland, suburbia, plenty of freeway driving on the I-70,77,79,90,271,376, 470, 480, etc.., winding twisty Ohio two lane roads, small towns, etc in a variety of weather (dry and sunny to wet w/ rain and light snow). Pros: Comfortable overall, soaks up the miles For a 2.5 4cyl, seems to have adequate power for freeway…
Last reply by Thed, -
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(edit, down further is an update with a spin in the EX-T 1.5 turbo) DRIVEN: 2016 Honda Civic 2.0 LX cvt, MSRP around 20,200 HIGHS: New style! That looks good and is bound to find favor with existing Hondaphiles and bring in new fas as well, sexy shape and not overboard. (Looks much better in the metal, than in the pictures) Larger size, the car pushes the limits of the compact class, and it's a perfect size. Spacious interior, the front seats are spacious and even my 6'1 girthy self fit into the back seat with without cramped legs and still with a bit of headroom to spare Vastly different interior layout is spot on for a semi sporty environment and everyd…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Picked up a gray Sonata w/ two tone gray interior at the San Jose airport Friday evening, drove through late rush hour traffic down the 101 to Salinas. Drove from the hotel to Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway on some twisty roads Saturday and Sunday, and then back to the San Jose airport Sunday afternoon. Impressions: Smooth, quiet, reasonably powerful, good on gas, well put together, good outward visibility. Kind of an anonymous midsize, pleasantly styled but not particularly memorable. I'd driven a rental Sonata 2 generations ago, this definitely felt bigger and more solid. Seemed to have more space inside than the Malibus I've driven in recent years. Dash design an…
Last reply by Robert Hall, -
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Well, we got our first 2.0T in, and after waiting for what seemed an eternity- it was actually two days- it got PDI'd and put on the lot. So, being the car junkie I am, I took it for a quick spin earlier. I kept the drive fairly short, as I was mainly concerned with the impact the 2.0T made on the driving experience. As you may remember, my initial thoughts on the 1.5T were extremely positive. I'm happy to say, a stint with the 'big block' hasn't changed that. I'm just going to come right out and say it- in 2.0T guise, it may be the most competent, best built and driving vehicle I have ever been in relative to it's price tag. I believe I read an article a few month…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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DRIVEN: 2016 Mazda Mazda6 Sport 2.5 AT HIGHS: For many, quite a rakish look in the blah midsize sedans segment. Looks sinister in certain colors with gunmetal wheels. Knockout cabin, in particular when fitted with white seats and dash accents. Like the Mazda3, its very reminiscent of German designs like BMW and its done fantastic. Great materials. Ergonomics and controls all down pat. Control wheel for the screen is a nice add. Like the engine in the Mazda 3, the 2.5 has pep and goes about its business with almost 'just enough' power for most. Linear power delivery and within decent smoothness. Automatic trans seems well mated to the car's power output. Backseat a…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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---to fill in later tonight--- overall, nicely improved. good value.
Last reply by regfootball, -
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previous review of a 2013 Encore by me here DRIVEN 2017 Buick Encore Essence AWD Leather 1.4t (about 7k miles) HIGHS Still has distinct and snazzy styling. Interior updates made a nice interior even nicer, despite random cheaper plastics. retains the popular crossover friendly seat height and step in. Still a good view all around. No cabin claustrophobia here. Still greatly manueverable and parkable. Still a very good amount of room inside in the passenger compartment (GM does not typically package interior space real effectively for every vehicle) Reasonably quite inside, thanks to Quiet Tuning. Decently quiet while cr…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Was near a BGMC dealer today and bumped in because i saw the new LaCrosse. They also had new Envision on the floor and 'new' "Acadia" as well (I'll probably be calling it what it is, an Envoy XL7, because it feels to me like a combination of those two FINE GM products, moreso than it feels like a 'real' Acadia.....but I digress). (Digression number two.....still really dig the Encore. 17's not in yet but the Encore to me is still one of GM's best masterstrokes. A bit more armrest and a real console, and such...nice little gem. Surprisingly not at all rendered without an identity with the arrival of the Envision. The Encore still feels like it has a rightful and …
Last reply by Stew, -
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DRIVEN: 2017 Buick LaCrosse Essence 3.6 FWD ; Driver confidence, Sun and Shade, Sights and Sounds. HIGHS: Car looked good in good color combination and 20" wheels Pretty good interior space front and rear... deceiving when you look at it but the leg room in back is nice. Acceptable pull from generally smooth v6 Nice gauge cluster, GM making progress Seats more comfy than I am used to in GM vehicles lately Not wholly serene, but not noisy inside. Nice view in and out of the car. And large panel sunroof helps relieve the cabin of claustrophobia that can be present in many of the smashed roof sedans today. I was ok with most of t…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: 2017 Chevy Volt LT cloth seats quick note, most of my basis of comparison is the outgoing Volt model, which I have driven a few times. HIGHS: -Sexy new shape is less science project and more real sporty car. -Sexiness carries to the interior which you sit 'in' like a cockpit and its a sporty outlook out of the car. Center console with shifter and such is very nice. -Interior is revised with 'iPad on the dash' and a completely new design that fits in with all the other Chevy's; no longer an outlier -New Volt is a big step forward in overall execution of the Voltec concept; it's a big improvement in nearly every way over the already pretty well done Vol…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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Last weekend my brother got married in Destin. Since we were only staying a few days, we decided it was worth it to rent a car for the trip from Cincinnati to Destin. I was hoping for a Malibu or Fusion and we received a Malibu that had about 1900 miles on it. The 1.5L was a solid engine. I've read where some people complain about turbo lag, but it seemed fine to me. The sound system was pretty good, although it had a weird issue with my iPod where it would randomly skip a few seconds ahead in the song. The usb location could have been better. It's out in the open, so you have to remove whatever device is sitting there if you don't want to worry about someone break…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: thanks to an egift card incentive, 2017 Chrysler Pacifica (not even sure what trim) Quick spin, and even less time to write here. Here i can legimately make comparison to the Town and Country in our garage HIGHS -eye catching looks inside and out, minvans now have style -all the positive assets of the minivan are maintained....and enhanced -updated Pentastar v6 remains strong and feels faster, and promises improved mpg (if possible) -update to the 9 speed vs the 6 speed means much better and quicker shifting (note: my short spin exhibited none of the 9 speed foibles written about in the buff books). It bangs off shifts smoother and quicker and theref…
Last reply by A Horse With No Name, -
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So I set up an appointment for the Civic SI at a local dealer and checked it out They were very clear that due to the special edition nature of the car they would allow no test drives. I have a few impressions to share though.
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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So, the brother's ATS is in the shop again, this time getting the entire passenger side front LEDs replaced. His Rental while it is being fixed is a 17 Cruze LT with the RS package. Exterior: White does not suit this car. It looks bulbous and overweight, especially with the RS sideskirts. The premier looks much better with it larger rims and in a darker color. Interior: Tons of room. The controls are easy to use and work well, and it had Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Interior materials left MUCH to be desired. The thing is filled with hard and cheap plastics with that weird carpeted crap covering a few small places on the dash and doors. The trunk i…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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DRIVEN - 2017 GMC Acadia SLT AWD, MSRP like 45,500 or something HIGHS: Something in the showroom at GMC to fend off the onslaught of Jeep Grand Cherokee sales Downsized to hit a broader swath of the market. Much more garageable than old Acadia. Solid build quality, inside and out. Feels very hefty and solid on the road, giving the impression of durability and ready for tough roads. If GMC wanted it to feel like a truck, and not a crossover, then they hit the jackpot. First and second row seating is very solid and comfortable. Drivers seat is very adjustable. Rear seats even good for large adults and plenty of leg room. Sort of a …
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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I finally drove the Continental today. It was a base Premiere, which of course has the 3.7L. That was my biggest concern as I wasn't sure if it would be enough for the car. Turns out I was right that it is more than adequate. It even shifts a lot smoother than the MKX I drove last year. I was also impressed by the sound system even though it wasn't Revel audio. The ride quality was everything I expected, I'd say it was even better than the MKX. The one negative I discovered was that if the battery died, everyone would have to climb through the driver's side door to get out. Overall, I was very impressed. I was expecting to come away wanting a higher spec model, but that w…
Last reply by TaurusSHO, -
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Spotted and touched a new Enclave a week or so back. Couldn't get inside Very impressed at how it continues the look of the outgoing model. Very tidy, and body gaps are much tighter. Not as bombastic in overall design as the old one. But the market will like the shape in the flesh. The size of the vehicle is literally spot on for the market. Perfect size. Buick's bling reduction I think is setting itself up to bring back the bling in mid cycle refresh..... The interior through the windows looks very well done. With lighter shades of materials, its not a dark tomb like most of the Traverses. The new dashboard is quite different than the outgoing one, a…
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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Malibu 2.0 but with a hatch. I like, but the interior is no real step above apart from a little bit nicer console. Not a drop dead stunner. Like most of the new Buicks it just sort of fades in. looks spacious at least. Overall I'd give styling a b for being inoffensive and incorporating the hatch very well. It doesn't come off as 'premium' as much as it should. I hope to check it out asap.
Last reply by trinacriabob, -
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Driven: 2018 Buick Regal Sportback Essence 2.0t (the original review is in this post. Revised reviews are further down, in this post, and in this other post) HIGHS: -Nice understated shape conceals a cleverly integrated hatchback design -'Decent' propulsion from 2.0t engine -Nicely shaped upper dash with touchsreen oriented slightly to driver. Interesting at least from a design standpoint. -Sporting driving position and good room in both rows, mostly, plus the biggest benefit being improved leg room over previous model -Really nice cargo space, with seats up, or seats down, the cargo area of this vehicle and the flexibility of it in a…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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previous 2018 Equinox comments here DRIVEN: 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 1.5T AWD LS HIGHS: (previous) Rear row seats are very supportive, placed at a good height, and are nicely comfortable. And they fold flat now (WHOA!). Nothing else. LOWS (LS trim considered): See link for previous 2018 Equinox comments above. Tight, compromised, unacceptable front row space. Useless for space or comfort. No real gratification from steering, handling or anything vehicle dynamics wise. None at all. LS model gauges and center display look ridiculously cheap and third world. Suzukis had better gauges. Weak styling. The old styling was…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN: 2018 Chevrolet Equinox 2.0T AWD LT HIGHS: 2.0t engine is relatively well behaved and mated well to 9 speed automatic. Move the Equinox pretty well and without fuss, four a four cylinder. Should be good for more than just in town errands. Rear row seats are very supportive, placed at a good height, and are nicely comfortable. Cargo area manages to be about the same as the previous version. Crazy considering how much smaller the vehicle is. Interior contains all the style and function upgrades of the new Malibu, like switches, gauges, etc. The size of the vehicle will work well for those who need something that is easy to get around…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Well, pure coincidence, didn't even know it was out yet. 2018 Chevy Equinox in the showroom when i picked up my Malibu from service today. Wow, very different than the current one is all I can say. Shape looks good mostly, apart from clumsiness and awkwardness in the greenhouse and proportion of top to bottom. The design continues on Chevy's current themes inside and out, but is definitely less butch and less crisp than the current Nox. The greatly reduced wheelbase is definitely noticeable. Somewhat feminine and some Euro look to it also (as if it would compete with Renaults and Peuguots in France). I sat in it, the front feels a fair amount less spaci…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN 2018 Chevrolet Traverse AWD LT 3LZ (will verify) No MSRP on the label HIGHS Mini Suburban feel Mini Suburban crossover style Spacious and well laid out interior. Spacious front and second rows, particularly in GIRTH. Cargo space behind third row is more useful than previous version. More space and additional depth below cargo cover. Ridiculously simple dashboard design comes off as elegant and easy to use, using the same bits as all the other newest Chevy's (window switches, gauges, etc.) Sliding door cubby with touchscreen is actually not gimmicky and is a ridiculously useful center storage cubby. Very quiet inside. …
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Local dealer had a sponsored event for a comparison drive opportunities for 9 2018 compact crossovers in one place. Free food and coffee as well! Wanting to sample some of these without spending time at the dealer (which is why you go, right?) I decided to spend part of a saturday checking out these contestants / soul sucking, testosterone elimination devices. I also want to make note of the really nice biffy's that were provided for the event. My impressions will get up a bit later but the contestants were. Chevy Equinox 1LT 1.5 AWD Ford Escape SE 1.5 w appearance pkg Nissan Rogue Subaru Forester Toyota RAV4 Honda CRv Volkswa…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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DRIVEN 2018 GMC Terrain SLE FWD 1.5t 9 speed auto, MSRP like around 30k. Front wheel drive version only. Cloth interior. HIGHS Ok, with the higher hp and torque, and the 9 speed auto, the engine performance did --- ok ---. And its smooth most of the time, particularly when just 40-70 mph cruising. Tranny seemed well matched, the higher tune 1.5t and 9 speed is exclusive here I think. Why isn't this the powertrain in the Malibu? Terrain interior is unique from the Equinox and Envision and feels sufficiently trucky. Nice layout and shapes on the dash. I like the GMC steering wheel. And the screen display and climate controls are done the best of…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Spotted and touched a new 2018 Accord a few days ago. Couldn't get inside It definitely has an 'interesting' look to it. It's got the lowered coupe like roof that is in vogue, and the greenhouse is basically a stretched Civic sort of look. Some odd sculpting to the body and a very blunt and weird upright front end make for a look that is hard to process at first; although strange design has been done often by Honda on cars and motorcycles over the decades (strange design is like a Honda badge of honor). The headlight detail in particular is interesting, with a very introverted looking face. Some of the other front end seams and cut lines and detailing is a bit …
Last reply by frogger, -
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Recent got to ride along on family member's rental. A new Hyundai Elantra impressions from the passenger seat: -clean sensible interior layout, with good room and space for a compact. room for 2 big guys and drink holders in between -styling is a bit bland but grows on you a bit. Not offensive or unattractive -did not feel overwhelmingly noisy or uncomfortable on the ride -seat cloth a bit too spartan. a nicer design would upgrade the whole interior -clean and simple dash layout.. not overstyled. -would be an attractive option to an overstyled Civic. A more open feeling than the Mazda3. Much nicer than a Corolla. -overall, goo…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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Let me get to the point. A short 1 mile ride of the Outlander hybrid. The Outlander is past due, the hybrid powertrain didn't make any sort of impression on me otherwise. If the powertrain is advanced, this needs a new wrapper. thanks,
Last reply by frogger, -
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I signed up for an 'electric car test drive event'. I go, thinking Volts, Bolts, and Teslas would be available to drive (also the Pacifica hybrid). Well, there were no Chevy's there. And the only Tesla was a Model 3, which i sat in for awhile. Separate thread. No other Teslas. Wouldn't let anyone drive the Pacifica. Since they had a new Leaf, i took that for a spin. HIGHS The current Leaf is a nice, stylish, space efficient wrapper. I so wish more hatchbacks were like this, tall, without a tumbling roof in the back. So nice and roomy inside because of it. Comfy seats, particularly with the nice leather. Nice driving position. Easy to see …
Last reply by ocnblu, -
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Philly auto show is a small one without big unveilings but I work about 40 minutes drive from Philly so left work early yesterday to take a look. So here few of my thoughts. Subaru Ascent - I have to say I was somewhat disappointed. Externally it looks more awkward than in pictures, it is like somebody took Forester and did a 150% copy. At the show they had Limited model, not sure if it is top of the line or not but interior looked just ok. Front seats felt pretty comfortable. Second row doesn’t have a lot of leg room, and third row is tight. My legs were crammed to the second row seat backs as bad as in MDX for example. The only thing due to a more square des…
Last reply by G. David Felt, -
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- 17 replies
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We've gotten our first Tiguans in and I've got a decent little drive a few times. I've thus far driven an SEL Premium 4Motion (2 row) and an SE FWD (3 row). My impressions follow- The Good- Overall driving dynamics. Steering is crisp and precise, with nice weight. Handling is beyond competent with a generally eager nature and it is happy going through corners. It really feels like a larger, taller Golf. Which it essentially is. Solid structure. It feels stiff and solid. Like most other VW's. It is quiet, and it rides quite well, even with the 19" wheels found on the top-trim SEL Premium. Virtual Cockpit really takes mainstream segment infotainm…
Last reply by Frisky Dingo, -
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- 11 replies
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DRIVEN: 2018 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L V6 SE w/Technology A8 SUV MSRP $40,285 HIGHS: FINALLY something to drive real traffic in a VW showroom!!! Really, this (and the new Tiguan) will save Volkswagen and make them relevant again. After a second consideration, this is a very crisp, conservative shape that will play well in its market. Bland, sure, and a bit truckish perhaps, but that's what it wants to be. A+ on vehicle packaging. Considering the physical size, and usage of space; 3 spacious rows, usable cargo, great seating options. Second row slides forward and backward. Genius how it can tilt forward for good access to third row, which can ha…
Last reply by regfootball, -
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- 12 followers
- 101 replies
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Cadillac dealer had a couple new XT4's! Couldn't drive, and the particular ones they had were more pricey. But I sat in the one and got some pics. I like that it has back some of the Art and Science Edginess and more youthful swagger to it. The cabin in the front row is a very nice width for a compact, the seats way very comfy, and the ergonomics of the screen, wheel, shifter, and especially the selector wheel for the screen were very well thought out. Rear leg room depends on how the front seat is set. For a 'compact' its adequate space. But the rear row has a short seat back, and if the front seat is back far, then leg room for taller folks is tight. …
Last reply by Windstorm, -
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- Editor-in-Chief
- 6 followers
- 18 replies
- 5.2k views
Through the last few years, and many automotive ventures, I've had the pleasure of living with endless long term rental vehicles for thousands of miles each. Typically, this has meant anywhere from 3000-6500 miles a piece, before swapping or exchanging for the next. Road warrior, randoms. I'm changing roles tomorrow, and will now be driving manufacturer demo's for long term. My "last rental finale?"... 2019 Cadillac XTS. Picked up yesterday. After putting 3,900 miles on a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic (LOVED it), Enterprise asked me if I'd do them a favor and take one of their leftover XTS's on my one way "get rid of it" trip. Interesting car...for sure..…
Last reply by caddycruiser, -
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- 8 followers
- 37 replies
- 5.1k views
Damn if it's not a good looking car. In the flesh. Sort of an Alfa Romeo / Infinity cross up, but they did a nice job with it (at 43k with LOTS of stuff on it). Interior was locked but to be honest the inside of it looked surprisingly good as well. Lots of surface development and good basic layout. Strangely, the rear seat bottom is very deep, so there will be more leg room back there than meets the eye. There is some Korea faux German finishes and switchgear in there you can detect through the glass, but still, why is this a nicer interior than in most Cadillacs? Knowing that anyone with a beating heart and chromosomes can get credit on a Hyundai, they wel…
Last reply by Drew Dowdell, -
