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Cory Wolfe

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Everything posted by Cory Wolfe

  1. Oh hai again. Just an update on my life. I've since been promoted in the Car and Driver world and now in charge of Buyer's Guide Production. Basically, I spend my days playing in photoshop and doing spreadsheets and the like. With the hours I work and the distance I travel, I'm finding that I have far less free time than I expected, hence my absence from the forums as of late (also, I really hate the new update—viewing recent content is practically impossible). Any how, as mentioned, Josh got a new ride and it's orange. Me? I'm still rolling in my GTI for the time being. I'm still, STILL, fighting it out with the dealership about my warranty. I have finally gotten word that I will be receiving it so hopefully they follow through this time. Especially since I am now fighting a vehicular life and death situation with my GTI's engine. The timing chain tensioner is starting to go, something I expected to happen eventually, but not something I wanted to pay out of pocket for. I am to the point that I don't even want to start the car anymore in fear that it will finally let go. This, of the various issues this car has had since I bought it, may be the one to break me from my enjoyment of it. Knowing my engine can grenade itself at any moment and that VW won't recall the cars for it makes me more than a little uneasy. The main prospect of a timing chain is being maintenance free, not being more dire than a traditional timing belt. For reference, I'm at 47k right now, which is traditionally far too soon for a timing service. So, what's my plan? Will I keep it? Will I sell it? That's for another day.
  2. So, I never did grab any pictures and, as predicted, he traded it in. What did he buy? Well, it's orange. I'll get pics once I have the opportunity to get some.
  3. The turbocharger has probably been the most reliable part in my GTI's engine.
  4. Launch control + Air Conditioning = Unhappy Volkswagen.
  5. I don't think it looks terrible, but it's definitely the least good-looking of the Civic sisters. I'm more excited about the manual transmission paired with the turbo. I'm eager to drive one to see how the two operate in conjunction with each other. Depending on the result, I am seriously considering a Civic as an eventual GTI replacement. I may just wait for the Si, as well, but even as it is with a CVT, it's not far off from my GTI's performance. At 6.6 seconds to 60 compared with the GTI's 6.1 (both as tested by C/D), It's pretty close, but with far better gas mileage. If the stick improves that, and depending on what the Si ends up with, I could probably make the switch. Then again, that damn Miata keeps taunting me...
  6. I would have expected better than that. They likely could have squeezed more range out of it with a slipperier shape.
  7. Seriously, who in their right mind sees any resemblance between the 300ZX and 944? They couldn't be more different, even the profile is far off. The only similarity here is the red paint and the 4 wheels. You've really got to be mindless or blind to throw those in here. Shame on the MSN editor who did so. I ought to revoke your privilege for writing about cars. Otherwise, I'd say that if it's obvious, its a rip off. A compliment is... well, the equivalent to a kit car. A compliment is not "Hey, we like your design, so we're going to copy it, mass produce it, and try to steal some of your success" as is the case with many of those Chinese products. In the case of the Continental and the Celica, they're bordering on the line of just being heavily inspired by the original not a complete clear-cut copy. Still shameful for the complete lack of creativity.
  8. Depending on the timing of the blown oil line, that could have be an entire engine replacement under warranty. If you didn't notice it, I'd assume the remaining oil was enough to keep the engine from damaging itself. Still, definitely not a small issue. Toyota actually had a similar problem with their 3.5L V-6 for the first 5 years of its production. They used a soft rubber hose for a high-pressure oil line, so after a while, it would eventually blow due to stress, age, etc. It was inevitably replaced with a metal part. I wonder if this is a similar issue to Toyotas...
  9. In other words, a V-6 1LE will cost no less than $33,295 assuming its available on a 1LT and doesn't require selecting any other options.
  10. I'll have to grab pictures once I'm home from work. It's right at the bottom of the doors on the metal lip–whatever you call it. Same place on the hatch I assume (I haven't had the chance to check out that location. Edit: Also, it seems at least one other Escape is having a similar issue: True Delta
  11. So, it is with great concern that I must address this issue publicly. An automaker, who should know better, has a vehicle that is beginning to develop rust bubbles at just three years of age. This automaker is Ford and the vehicle in question is Josh's 2013 Escape. Is it just me or is that not a decade too soon for this sort of thing? As for background, the vehicle has obviously lived in the salt-ridden world of Pennsylvania for the majority of its life–as have each and every one of our other vehicles over the years. It should also be stated that, in his ownership, its been washed at least bi-weekly. He takes better care of his vehicles than I do, he's excessively OCD about it. Just to compare to my own GTI, I wash it maybe once or twice a month on average (more often in the summer because of cars and coffee, cruising Woodward, etc.). It's a 2010 with slightly less miles and is spotless underneath. His Escape? Not only is the underneath looking pretty rough, the bottoms of the doors and hatch are developing bubbles! Now, I assume Ford has some sort of corrosion warranty, but that is simply ridiculous in my book. How does a vehicle this new have this sort of problem? This was our first Ford and has otherwise been trouble-free save for the common MFT freezes and various electrical glitches (it will randomly say there is a fault with the ESP, parking/cross traffic sensors, back up camera, electronic power steering...) that fix themselves with a vehicle restart, as well a few rattles (the panoramic sunroof, the doors). I just have to assume that maybe, just maybe this is a first model year sort of issue–perhaps they ran low on the anti-corrosive material–who knows. It should be noted that my GTI is also a first model year, and again, it's perfecto in that department (not-so-much others). After he discovered the issue, his first reaction was to look at replacements. His second was to research the most common and least common vehicles to develop rust issues. He was not surprised to find the Escape in a top 10 list someone published (I forget who) and the GTI in a top 10 list of the least from the same article. Despite the list, I have to assume those are older model years as I still can't fathom a vehicle this new having this issue. Regardless, the Escape will probably not stay with us for much longer. He's now hellbent on finding a new ride.
  12. As another owner of a DSG-equipped GTI, I can also attest to the programming. At least in Sport mode, which I avoid specifically for those reasons. If I had to guess, I would say Sport is tuned more for ideal track duty than spirited driving on public roads. It works well if you're 100% on it, 100% of the time. When you're just 90%, 60% of the time as you likely would be around town or on a back road (those pesky speed limits, yo) it's just too aggressive. I also wouldn't say Drive is sluggish, per se, but its definitely tuned for fuel economy like most. As it is a hot hatch, perhaps its tuned a bit too far in that direction, but VW likely thought it was ideal to tune it that way for EPA ratings and give you two other options if you so choose. As far as shuddering, I'll get it every now and then. I've had the mechatronics unit replaced in mine due to a detected failure of the unit by the dealership. Did it change anything? No, not really. Do I care? No, not really. Do I regret settling for a DSG? No, not really. It is certainly a transmission of many quirks. Once you understand its logic versus a torque-converter automatic or your own logic with a manual, it's quite an enjoyable transmission. The only thing I would want to change is the tuning, along with a cpu tune because you can never go wrong with a bit more aggression. I can also report that after a 14 months and 20k miles, I'm still very much happy with my GTI. No regrets whatsoever, and if you know me, that's a major change from my previous vehicles. How many miles are on your car? I just crossed over 42k.
  13. When I moved to Michigan for the second time, I felt pretty comfortable with what I was going to be doing and what my plans were. "I've done everything before," I thought, figuring that jumping back into everything would be as smooth as a BMW inline-6. The move? Super smooth. The finances? Oh so silky smooth. Getting back to work? As smooth as that ticking, knocking time bomb that is otherwise known as the Quad-4 found in my first car. From the very beginning, nothing was working in my favor. Trends changed, routes vanished, and nothing was there for me to find it. The one day I did see something? I didn't have a long enough lens to shoot. Someone else did and gave the world the first pictures of the mid-engined Corvette, as seen from a mile away. Insert various expletives here. Jump forward almost exactly a month and I started a new job. It's something I never would have imagined I'd have the opportunity to do. Then again, I never saw myself as Spy either. When I received the news that I got the job, it was one of the greatest moments of happiness I've experienced in my life. The sigh of relief was immense. So, with that said, I'm sure you're wondering what this job is and who it is for. Those of you who follow me on Facebook will already be aware (those of you who don't follow me on social media, see my signature for links). Without further ado... I've started working for Car and Driver as an online production assistant. It's an entry level position, but many people before have got their start in this position. It's a great opportunity to get my foot in the door for future advancement. I just finished up my first full week of work and I have to say, I love it. Every person there is a car nut and the atmosphere is fantastic. I'm looking forward to spending many years here. Now, I just need to address this hour-long commute...
  14. As another owner of a DSG-equipped GTI, I can also attest to the programming. At least in Sport mode, which I avoid specifically for those reasons. If I had to guess, I would say Sport is tuned more for ideal track duty than spirited driving on public roads. It works well if you're 100% on it, 100% of the time. When you're just 90%, 60% of the time as you likely would be around town or on a back road (those pesky speed limits, yo) it's just too aggressive. I also wouldn't say Drive is sluggish, per se, but its definitely tuned for fuel economy like most. As it is a hot hatch, perhaps its tuned a bit too far in that direction, but VW likely thought it was ideal to tune it that way for EPA ratings and give you two other options if you so choose. As far as shuddering, I'll get it every now and then. I've had the mechatronics unit replaced in mine due to a detected failure of the unit by the dealership. Did it change anything? No, not really. Do I care? No, not really. Do I regret settling for a DSG? No, not really. It is certainly a transmission of many quirks. Once you understand its logic versus a torque-converter automatic or your own logic with a manual, it's quite an enjoyable transmission. The only thing I would want to change is the tuning, along with a cpu tune because you can never go wrong with a bit more aggression. I can also report that after a 14 months and 20k miles, I'm still very much happy with my GTI. No regrets whatsoever, and if you know me, that's a major change from my previous vehicles.
  15. It certainly raises an eyebrow. I'll be curious to try it out to see whether its typical Hyundai or if its something special for once. I'm not sure I'd go as far as pathetic, but Hyundai's turbo engines have been underwhelming. They have a history of putting out competitive numbers, but without competitive results. The current 2.0 turbo is a prime example. The 1.6 seems to deliver more of its promise, so perhaps it won't be so bad. I just don't see it actually competing with the likes of a VW GLI, especially when that engine is well documented as being underrated by VW. Not to mention Hyundai's so-so reputation of suspension tuning.
  16. With all the cars I see on a daily basis, I figure it's worth putting into a collection (again). So, here's a short gallery of what I've seen in 2016. As the year is still young, I hope to continuously update this with new material. Also, just as a forewarning, not all of these are of the highest quality. When I'm out and about sometimes a quick shot is all I can capture. Some shots are... highly cropped and edited, but the cars are worth showing. Enjoy! Okay so that last one is a tractor... Also, I wanted to share this photo with you guys. I just happened to stumble upon this photoshoot. Here's a link to the shot Cadillac published from that shoot: Cadillac ATS-V and CTS-V Carbon Black Sport Package Image
  17. Through The Lens: 2015 Subaru WRX STI Launch Edition This is one of those cars that, as I was growing up, was always considered forbidden fruit. After learning of them via Gran Turismo, I lamented the fact that we couldn't buy one. Then, after the start of new millennium, things started to change. Subaru first gave us the WRX with the second generation Impreza; a sort of taste test for the real beast. It wasn't until Mitsubishi sent over its 8th Lancer Evo that Subaru gave us the STI. It's now been over 10 years, and STI's have been a regular sight around my home town for some time. In fact, thanks to the various STI's and the more civilian WRX's, the unmistakable Subaru "warble" exhaust note always gets my attention. Enough with the history lessen, though, let's focus on what we really care about: The drive. The Good: First of all, I'm happy to report that the STI still retains its distinctive exhaust note. Start it up, rev the crap out it, and just revel in the glory of it. Some people hate it, but I think its fantastic. Once you're finished being a kid and you decide to let the car put that sound to use, you realize just how much they've stiffened and sharpened this latest iteration of the STI. It's surprisingly stiff and turn in is, in a word, instant. Also pretty much instant: The brakes. This car really stops. Which is useful, as you'll find yourself going much faster than you really intended. While the power-train is essentially unchanged, I really didn't care once I put my foot in it. The surge of power is so massive and torque so plentiful that I wanted to just give it more, more, more. Aiding all of this is a fantastic transmission. There's none of that complicated dual-clutch bull$h!. It's an honest-to-goodness 6-speed manual with short, accurate throws and a great, perfectly weighted clutch. Heel-n-toe in this car was completely natural and allowed for perfect downshifts each time. Screw the photography, I wanted to keep driving. Hell, I should have just taken it home with me. I'm sure no one would've noticed... Beyond the drive, I have a couple things to note. I'll start with the design, which as we all know, is a fairly subjective matter. Subaru, in fact, would love for me to stop right there and move on. Almost universally, the STI's new looks have received negative comments. This is partly due to a rather seductive concept car Subaru initially previewed it with. It was aggressive with a short greenhouse and exaggerated fenders. This car is not that in the slightest. However, I am here to say it looks much better in the flesh. It's distinctive and has an angry scowl about it. There's still that youthful flare from STIs of past, but it's a more matured, restrained look. Most elements of the design seem to be more about function than outright flash. In my eyes, it looks good... but, let's be honest, I'm probably letting the drive blur my vision. Moving on, inside the STI is what we'd call a massive improvement. The old STI made no attempt at giving you an interior worth the price of entry. Just a pile garbage with some sport seats, basically. Now, there's some actual soft touch materials here and there with the majority of controls having a quality feel. The seats are nearly perfectly bolstered and covered in a blend of leather and suede. The steering wheel feels great in the hands, as well. The Bad: Okay, so at this point I probably sound like I'm in love with this new STI (actually, maybe I am). That's not completely true as this is not a perfect car. Let's be clear, this thing isn't cheap. After a few options and the limited "Launch Edition" package that adds a few custom touches (Oooh! Gold Wheels!), this is a nearly $40k car. That is f**king outrageous for what is still basically a warmed over Impreza. Okay, it's more than just warmed over, but still, that's a lot of cash. As such, the interior, while being massively improved, just isn't nice enough. The door panels are economy-car cheap. So is the center console, the lower dash, and especially the headliner, which is made from the most luxurious of fabric-covered cardboard. Just lovely, I have to say. To add to that, there is very little sound-deadening and nearly every ounce of road noise makes its way into the cabin. I suppose that can be forgiven considering this car's mission. On second thought, no, no way. Needs less road noise and more warble. Lots more warble. It's too damn restrained and quiet. I'm glad that it hasn't been completely eradicated like it has on the plebeian WRX, but its definitely been toned down a bit. Speaking of the regular WRX and its fancy new 2.0l engine, the STI's carryover 2.5l comes with one pretty big caveat: Immense turbo lag. The old EJ257 engine spools up slowly with the majority of torque coming in around 3k RPM. Depending of what you're doing, you may want to give yourself an extra second or two before expecting the power to be there. The power comes on strong, but boy do you have to be patient to get it. Just don't apply the same level of patience of potholes. You will recall that I mentioned how stiff the suspension is. Let me put it simply: Hit a pothole or patch of road imperfections and you better have a Chiropractor on hand. There is very little give to the suspension and not much for damping. It's rather uncomfortable on Michigan's horrible roads, but that might just be a Michigan thing. To The Point: The 2015 Subaru WRX STI is a surprise for me. I didn't expect to like it, even as a self-proclaimed lover of turbo'd Subarus. At the end of the day, I'd say the pros far outweigh the cons, but then, I only had about 2 hours with this car. I could be completely wrong for all I know. But, whatever, it's fantastic and I'm sticking to it. Just don't look at the price... Considering stealing it or selling a testicle or two.
  18. I opted for a rental to go home for mother's day. I figured I'd rather put the 700 miles on something other than my GTI since it's a little needy.
  19. After another brief vacation from the forums, I might be back to posting. Maybe... You never know with me, afterall. For now, though, I'm here after a few months of hell getting ready for a move, working overtime, and dealing with an awful dealership. For those who don't know, I'm moved back to Michigan to do the same job I did the last time. I'm even literally just down the street from where I was last time. Hopefully, I'll make this move a little more permanent than the last try. If you weren't aware of what I was doing previously, it probably isn't very hard to figure out if you search. So, I'll be doing that as well as a few other side projects involving the industry. Also, as I described previously, I've finally begun to face the inevitable with VW's reputation. That hasn't been the biggest problem, though, as the dealership experience has been the worst. Somehow, I've gone from having a CPO car to a possibly not CPO car. I keep getting mixed answers when dealing with that dealership, so I've gotten VW of America involved to sort things out for me and set things straight with that hell-hole. Afterall, if I wanted to buy a car without some sort of warranty. I wouldn't have purchased a VW. Meanwhile, my last trip there was to repair a scratch they left after the car was in for service. I wasn't very happy about that experience. So yeah... Hello.
  20. So, I've contemplated putting my own deposit down. It's one of those cars where the product exceeds expectations. The biggest problem I see, is how Tesla is going to deliver on each pre-order. Without a breakthrough, its been estimated that many people won't see their car until 2020. In fact, best case seems to indicate late 2019 for anyone who isn't a current Tesla owner. That is what keeps me from throwing my own $1k in (that and an imminent move). By all accounts, Tesla has hit a homerun as a product, and as a business model. The sheer fact that any car can garner this many pre-orders is unheard of. People don't just line up down the sidewalk for a new Prius or a Camaro, nor the forthcoming Bolt for that matter. But, Chevy is still going to beat Tesla to production by at least a full year. Who's to say that GM can't match the Model 3's specs by that point? Would that even make a difference when the Tesla is something to behold, rather than just something to get you from point A to point B? This is where the original Volt concept could have really been the differentiator.
  21. Not really a diverse choice, but clearly I'd go with the Golf R.
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