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Posted: Dec 27, 2007 in Things to do
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TEST DRIVE
By Christopher Lloyd
We take three new models for 2008 for a spin. Here's what we found out.
Every year, brand-new car models debut, hoping to become the next Ford Mustang or Honda Civic, the perennial top sellers. But it's a competitive business, and many will go the way of the Buick Reatta. (Never heard of the Reatta? Exactly.)
We took a peek at the new kids on the dealer's block looking to make an impression for 2008. Here's our take on three of them. (Please note: Prices may vary.)
Saturn Astra
The Astra is not exactly a new car, in that it's been a top-selling model across the Atlantic under GM's Opel brand in Europe and Vauxhall brand in the United Kingdom. As part of a broader strategy to more closely align product lines on both sides of the pond, Saturn is introducing the compact Astra here for 2008.
The car has a low, sleek profile and a pointy nose that is not too dissimilar from the Volvo C30. In the 5-door XR I test-drove, seating was very comfy up front, with wonderful lower-back support. Rear seating is fine for two, though with a full load of three it would be a tight fit. The rear cargo area is modest, but expands generously with the rear seats down.
The Astra is not meant to wow you with performance, but I found acceleration to be peppy. The car has a nice balance and corners admirably. All the climate, stereo and navigation controls were clustered around the center console, which took some getting used to. My XR came with a display panel that showed information like tracking your mileage -- without having to get out a calculator.
Think of this car as a cross between a compact and a sports car. In some ways it's like a tamer, less expensive cousin of the Volvo C30.
Price: $15,995 base for 5-door XE; $17,545 for 5-door XR; $18,495 for 3-door XR.
Engine: 1.8-liter 4-cylinder; 138 hp.
Mileage: 24 city/32 highway.
More info: www.saturn.com/astra
Nissan Rogue
The Rogue is a new tack for Nissan in several ways, and not just the fact it represents their entry into the small SUV/car crossover market populated by the likes of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
It's designed to appeal more to males (for a brand that skews about two-thirds female), and it represents a movement by Nissan toward continuously variable transmissions, or CVT, instead of the usual automatic vs. manual. Most of the nontruck lineup for Nissan now features CVT.
With this transmission, there are no distinct gear shifts, but an essentially limitless number of gear ratios as you increase or decrease in speed. While accelerating it's noticeable by the lack of "bumps" when normal cars shift gears.
The SL version has paddle shifters on the steering wheel with preset ratios for drivers who prefer more hands-on control over the drivetrain, as well some exterior trim, upgraded stereo and other options. The Rogue's profile is compact, with a nose similar to the minivan Quest and a body that's muscular but not aggressive. I found acceleration smooth but not overwhelming.
The ride is tight and comfortable, and seating in both the front and rear is exceptionally roomy. The cargo area is decent, better with the rear seats down. Nice touch: a moveable brace on the front cup holder that keeps your drink stable. It's available in all-wheel drive, but the Rogue is meant to conquer suburban snow drifts, not steep mountains.
Price: $19,250 base for S model; $20,670 for SL.
Engine: 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder; 170 hp.
Mileage: 21 city/26 highway.
More info: www.NissanUSA.com/rogue or Ed Martin Nissan, (317) 359-9231.
Volvo C30
As I was zipping past a bulky, boxy mid-1990s Volvo sedan on the highway, I couldn't believe I was driving the same brand. The Swedish automaker is renowned for its safety record, but its rep is -- let's face it -- dull as plain toast. The C30 is like a double espresso shot to the system, a youth-oriented sports compact with some sizzle. Call it the UnVolvo. This car is fun, fun, fun.
With 227 turbo-charged horses, the C30 has plenty of zip and corners like a champ. As I was cruising at 60 mph on I-465, a stomp on the pedal quickly slingshot me around that older Volvo. The ride is sports-car-firm but not uncomfortable.
The C30 has sassy looks; with its low roofline, sharp front and sloping quarter panels, it resembles a nimble fox. It's a two-door with 2+2 seating, meaning the back two seats are not full-size, but I found both front and rear seating quite comfortable. The all-glass tailgate lifts to reveal a small cargo area that more than doubles with the rear seats down. One nifty touch: a space behind the dash radio/climate controls where you can store a purse or bundle. The C30 comes in a Version 1.0 or 2.0; the latter includes sportier suspension, a sound system upgrade and some exterior trim. Choose between a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual. Mileage is not great for a small car, but is in line with other brands the C30 is aimed at: Mini Cooper, Volkswagen GTI and Audi A3.
Price: $22,700 base for Version 1.0; $25,700 base for Version 2.0.
Engine: Turbo-charged 2.5 liter 5-cylinder; 227 hp.
Mileage: 19 city/27 highway.
More info: www.volvocars.us or Tom Wood Jaguar-Volvo, (317) 848-7447.
Other debuts
Here are a few other new or reborn models debuting for '08:
Dodge Challenger
The iconic muscle car rises again with an eye to the past. The completely redesigned Challenger is a throwback to a 1970s Challenger with its sleek lines and snarly 'tude. Prices start around $37,000.
Pontiac G8
The G8 replaces the Grand Prix as the "real rear-drive" performance sedan in Pontiac's lineup. Its streamlined profile and aggressive nose telegraph this is not a Grandma car. Prices start around $27,500.
Infiniti G37
Infiniti's next generation of the G sports coupe aims to take on high-end performance brands like BMW. Prices start around $34,000.
WHAT YOU CAN GET FOR THE MONEY
Compiled by Julie Cope Saetre Indy.com correspondent
While slipping behind the wheel of that SUV of your dreams is a fun part of an auto show, reality might be driven home if your budget is a little more compact. Still, there are shiny new vehicles to be had for $20,000, $15,000 -- even close to $10,000. Here's a look at what your hard-earned bucks could bring you.
About $10,000: 2008 Chevrolet Aveo Five-Door SVM 1VL
The price: $10,595 MSRP.
The plug: "Lowest-priced car in America."
The engine/transmission: 1.6L E-TEC II DOHC four-cylinder with five-speed manual.
What comes standard: AM/FM stereo; front disc/rear drum brakes; rear cargo shade; manual folding outside mirrors; front bucket seats with tilt-adjustable head restraints; cloth seating surfaces; 60/40 flip-and-fold rear seats with adjustable head restraints for outboard passengers.
To splurge: Add air-conditioning provisions for dealer-installed A/C kit, $50.
About $15,000: 2008 Hyundai Accent SE 3-Door Coupe
The price: $14,575 MSRP.
The plug: "Peace of mind you can afford."
The engine/transmission: 110-hp 1.6L DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine with five-speed manual.
What comes standard: Sport-tuned suspension; antilock braking system; six airbags; AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and 172 watts; air conditioning; power windows, door locks and outside mirrors; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; remote keyless entry system; eight-way adjustable driver seat; 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback; adjustable head restraints for all seats; intermittent front wiper.
To splurge: Add a sunroof package, $900.
About $20,000: 2008 Saturn Astra Sport Compact XR 3-Door Coupe
The price: $19,820 MSRP.
The plug: "Stop multitasking and start driving."
The engine/transmission: 1.8L four-cylinder VVT DOHC with four-speed automatic.
What comes standard: Air conditioning with particle filter; StabiliTrak vehicle stability-control system; AM/FM stereo with CD/MP3 player and seven speakers; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; reclining front high-sport seats; 60/40 split-folding rear seats; RainSense TM wipers; rear wiper and washer.
To splurge: Add the Premium Trim package and get leather seat surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats with manual lumbar support and a premium door insert and door lighting; $745.
NEW HYBRIDS
By Julie Cope Saetre / Indy.com correspondent
Environmentally conscious buyer has more choices than ever
Going green gets more popular every year. U.S. sales of hybrid cars and light trucks (including SUVs) increased from 230,371 in January through November of 2006 to 321,839 during the same period in 2007, reports Paul Taylor, chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association.
If you're in the market for a hybrid, you'll find that more manufacturers are jumping into the mix. Following in the footsteps of Toyota and its status-symbol Prius, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Lexus, Saturn and Nissan have tested the waters, with more expected to follow.
Here are a few new (or newly revamped) hybrid options for 2008, from Chevy's affordable Malibu to the "I could buy a small house for this" Lexus luxury sedan:
Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet introduces its Malibu hybrid model in 2008, promising "limited" availability by early spring. The four-cylinder engine pairs with a four-speed automatic hybrid transmission to offer an estimated MPG of 24 city and 32 highway. (Compare that with 22 city and 30 highway for the Malibu's regular four-cylinder version.) Standard luxuries include steering-wheel-mounted audio controls for the AM/FM stereo with CD player (it also has MP3 playback capability). Safety features include Chevy's StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. Starts at $22,790 MSRP.
Mercury Mariner
Not surprisingly, Mercury's Mariner SUV also gets a hybrid makeover. Highlights include a regenerative braking system (available in the Mariner line only on the hybrid) and a six-disc, in-dash CD changer with Mercury's Audiophile Sound System and an MP3 audio-input jack. Look for an estimated 34/30 MPG in the FWD model and 29/27 in the 4WD version. MSRP starts at $26,955.
Toyota Highlander
The Prius may get the press, but Toyota's all-new 2008 Highlander Hybrid comes with a long list of standard offerings and a unique grille design with a chrome surround. The 167 horsepower V6 engine gets respectable mileage claims for a large vehicle: 27 city and 25 highway. Fun stuff includes an AM/FM CD player with MP3 playback capability and six speakers. (The limited edition adds a six-disc CD changer and satellite radio capability.) The Highlander Hybrid starts at $33,700 MSRP; its limited-edition cousin begins at $39,950.
Lexus LS 600h L
As the most recent hybrid to join the Lexus lineup, the LS 600h L doesn't come cheap. The five-passenger luxury sedan packs in the perks, though, with a plethora of safety features (a full-color back-up camera, built-in tool and first-aid kits), leather everywhere, power everything, a heated steering wheel and heated/cooled seats. And the audio system rocks out with surround sound, 19 (!) speakers and a hard-disc drive storing up to 2,000 songs. The 5.0- liter V8 hybrid engine logs an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway. The base MSRP: a whopping $104,000.
Ford Escape
Ford's newly redesigned 2008 Escape Hybrid's compact electric motor can power the vehicle up to 25 mph before the 2.3L gas engine needs to kick in. And Ford says city mileage peaks at an impressive 34 MPG. The redesigned interior stresses sustainable two-tone fabrics and 66 cubic feet of cargo space (when the rear seats are folded). Available in FWD and a 4WD models, with MSRPs starting at $26,265 and $28,015 respectively.
WARRANTIES
By Julie Cope Saetre / Indy.com correspondent
Explore longer ones for peace of mind as you move down the road
Down payments and monthly car statements can stake a big claim on the contents of your bank account. The last thing you need is an unexpected repair bill. Fortunately, auto manufacturers seem to be feeling your pain, says Paul Taylor, chief economist for the National Automobile Dealers Association, parent organization to the Automobile Dealers Association of Indiana.
"The most important trend is toward longer limited drive-train warranties for cars and light truck vehicles upon initial purchase," Taylor says. "For example, warranty coverage of the key drive-train components is now 100,000 miles (or 10 years) for Kia and Hyundai vehicles."
Compare that with the 24,000- or 36,000-mile policies lasting two to three years of the not-so-distant past -- not too shabby. Mercedes now covers 50,000 miles or 48 months, whichever comes first -- still not a bad deal.
Powertrain warranty
And the Chrysler Group (Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles) recently introduced a lifetime powertrain limited warranty, covering "the cost of all parts and labor needed to repair covered powertrain components -- engine, transmission and drive system -- on most new Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge" vehicles. To take advantage of the non-transferable program, you need to have a powertrain inspection conducted every five years by an authorized Chrysler Group dealer.
A generous move on Chrysler's part? Well, yes and no, Taylor says.
Take into consideration a five-year financing period, in which the average driver racks up 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year: At most, typical new-car customers will put 75,000 miles on the odometer before trading for a new vehicle, he explains. "Chrysler may not have many people that it has to cover at year six and beyond, or over 100,000 miles. So it makes good sense for the manufacturer -- and for the consumer with a long commute to work."
Extended warranty
If your must-have new car doesn't have such expansive repair horizons, an extended-warranty purchase is an option. "These long warranties give customers piece of mind over the entire time that they are likely to own the vehicle," Taylor says.
But before purchasing an extended warranty, it's key to do your homework, cautions Mary Ann Wehmueller, Indiana's deputy attorney general. Make sure you understand the limitations of the policy -- mileage, age -- and exactly which components are (and are not) covered. And ask about any cancellation policies.
Extended warranties are available from both your car's manufacturer and third-party providers. If you're tempted by an offer from the latter, make sure your research extends to that company's record, Wehmueller adds. You don't want to hand over a check today to an organization that goes belly-up tomorrow.
It may take more time up front, but the research pays off down the line, she adds. "Always read before you sign on the dotted line and part with your money."
GADGETS FROM THE FACTORY
By Julie Cope Saetre / Indy.com correspondent
Cars have become moving centers of technological display and performance
Just because your auto is a necessity doesn't mean it can't be a darned fun one. You log a lot of miles, after all, so you might as well enjoy the ride.
Auto manufacturers agree, adding all sorts of tempting toys to their repertoires. And to prove there's depth behind that design, sophisticated safety tools are increasingly part of the package.
GPS mapping
Some of the most popular tech features in new cars are GPS mapping systems, says Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for automobile-info Web site Edmunds.com. Helpful on their own in guiding you during your travels, they become true powerhouses when integrated into telematics services such as GM's oft-advertised OnStar system.
Depending on the manufacturer's parameters, these services can track your vehicle's location and send help in case of an accident (or recover your car if it's stolen), as well as identify mechanical/electrical problems, enable wireless based voice-command functions and more.
"There's a lot going on in the cabin of the car for the person who's trying to multitask," Reed says.
"We've grown so accustomed to the technology, being able to be productive no matter where we are," says Vance Maxwell, co-owner of Auto Outfitters in Carmel. "More and more, you're starting to see on-board computers that you can utilize to get information, and it's all tied into the GPS and the Bluetooth technology. With so many people that are in outside sales (or) doing any kind of traveling, it's critical that we have access to the technology while we're on the move."
Convenient remote-start
Thanks to Indiana's weather extremes, remote-start systems enjoy popularity. Not only will they get that heater cranking now but, come summer, you'll appreciate the cool air blowing from the vents as you slide into those otherwise blistering seats.
Thoughts of safety
Practical-minded Hoosiers also are gravitating toward back-up sensors, rear-view cameras and other safety devices, especially for larger vehicles such as SUVs and minivans. It's a trend gaining national prominence, Reed adds.
"I (test) drove a Volvo that had a lane-departure warning system," he recalls. "It had blind-spot protection. As you glanced in your wing mirror, there was either a green or a red illuminated panel that showed you at a glance whether somebody was in your blind spot. I'm on the freeways in L.A. all the time, and ..... that was just an amazing feature."
Powerful sound
Of course, sound systems have long been an integral part of many owners' driving experiences. Today's versions often integrate MP3 players along with CD changers, satellite and/or HD-radio systems and powerful speakers.
"Factory sound systems are a lot more sophisticated, a lot better sounding," Maxwell says. "They certainly don't have everything to offer, but for the average customer, they're pretty good."
What's next? SD ports in audio systems, Maxwell says. "We've got some after-market radios that will (only) accept an SD card. They're a Bluetooth device with an SD port. You store your music on the SD card, and that's how you travel with it. It's literally a thumbnail-size device, instead of a CD."
LEASE OR BUY?
By Julie Cope Saetre / Indy.com correspondent
How long you tend to keep cars should influence payment choice
You've read the brochures and test-driven the vehicles. You've chosen the model, trim and color. Now there's one remaining question: How do you plan to pay for your cool new set of wheels -- buy or lease?
The answer depends on your driving habits and your desire to keep up with the latest auto developments. "Look back over your car-owning history," advises Philip Reed, senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com, a comprehensive on-line source of auto information. "Do you keep cars for a long time? If the answer is yes, then leasing is not for you. People who like to get in and out of new cars every two to three years should lease. It's economically, probably, the easiest way to do that."
With buying, of course, keep the car long enough and you'll eventually end up title in hand and payment-free. However, after about three years, you should expect service issues to increase, Reed says. "You're starting to get into a period of time where the car will experience quite a bit of maintenance -- tires at a minimum, brakes, extensive services." So you'll need to factor upkeep into your budget.
For young pros
Usually, a lease enables you to drive a more expensive car for a lower monthly payment than you would have if you bought the vehicle outright -- a factor that appeals especially to young professionals, Reed says.
"Younger people are expecting more. It used to be that a person would begin their working life, and when they'd worked hard for maybe 10 or 15 years, they'd say 'You know what? I'm going to reward myself with a new car.' Right now, right off the bat, somebody entering the job market might say 'You know, I want a 3 Series BMW. And I don't want to wait for it. How can I get it?' Well, leasing is the answer."
Not surprisingly, then, leasing is on the upswing, Reed says, accounting for 18 percent to 20 percent of all new-car transactions. That's in part due to less restrictive rules on who can sign on that dotted line.
"Leasing used to be very prohibitive. You had to have A-1 credit. But they've relaxed that quite a bit, and that's one of the reasons younger people are leasing, because you don't need as much of a credit history as once was required."
Keep in mind that leasing has its own distinct language. You won't fork over a down payment; instead, you'll be responsible for "drive-off" fees -- and those can add up depending on your particular lease. Edmunds.com recommends looking for a lease that, ideally, requires zero drive-off fees, with a maximum of $1,000. Otherwise, "if you get in an accident within the first month or two, you can easily lose whatever you put down on the car," Reed explains.
Beware low payments
Also, beware of monthly lease payments that seem too low to be true. "Very often, (dealers) advertise very low payments on a car, but you'll notice that it requires $3,000 in drive-off fees. That's a big chunk of money to put down. And it sort of contradicts the whole concept of leasing, which is good cash flow."
THE INDIANAPOLIS AUTO SHOW
By Julie Cope Saetre / Indy.com correspondent
Ah, the automobile showroom. Those gleaming vehicles. That new-car smell. The rabid salesperson homing in on you with GPS-like precision, high-pressure sales pitch revving up. No wonder 200,000 car fans head to the annual Indianapolis Auto Show, now in its 94th year. The vehicles are there, the new-car smells beckon, but the salespeople are contract-free. "No one is there trying to sell you a car," says Marty Murphy, executive vice president of the Automobile Dealers Association of Indiana, which presents the annual extravaganza. "They're just trying to sell you the idea. So there's not anyone trying to get you to sit down and make an offer. No one's looking at your car to see how much it will trade (for). They are there to help inform you, so you're going to have a better idea of where you want to go." If you can narrow your options, that is. Nearly 40 auto manufacturers will be on hand, with more than 450 vehicles. Brochures are available for most models on display -- as well as those that aren't. It's the perfect opportunity, Murphy says, to slip behind the wheel of cars you like and get a feel for which might be a comfortable fit. And don't hesitate to quiz the on-hand product specialists.
You'll be navigating more than 375,000 square feet of display space, so slip on comfortable walking shoes first.
If you go
When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 27-30; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
Where: The Indiana Convention Center, 100 S. Capitol Ave.
Tickets: Adults $7; children younger than 12 free when accompanied by an adult; active-duty U.S.
military, police and fire personnel free with ID.
Info: (317) 262-1594 or www.indyautoshow.com
