2014 Volkswagen Jetta SE Review

Volkswagon seeing their faithful followers of their brand as the only real market for their cars has been in a mode of trying to be #1 in the world market and the U.S. for foreign car sales. Although we all know the VW brand and it does hold a place in many hearts as a popular brand, the sales aren't even close to what VW wants, or expects. So what is it that they are doing to gain market share in the U.S.? Redesigning brands like their most popular vehicle the Jetta that will help boost sales. Starting with things tht will push the price down to a more affordable sticker and will be more attractive to the American masses. Not trying to pull a fire proof tablecloth printed over our eyes with anything. Just make a good car at an affordable price to get the name back into the highest sales lists

So VW gambled big-time with the release of the latest version of the Jetta, its most popular vehicle here, in model year 2011. Styling was simplified, and the car apparently de-contented, all the better to be sold for a lower price. Lower price being key to greater market share, especially in the American market.

The faithful screamed, and the masses bought. De-contented details like reversion to a torsion-beam rear suspension from independent and lower-cost hard plastics in the interior bothered the mainstream buyer not a bit. The faithful still had their older cars, or upscale versions of the Jetta like the performance-oriented GLI. full review

2014 Jeep Cherokee Review

The 2014 Jeep Liberty...I mean Cherokee, returns with its old name after donning the Liberty name in 2002. It looks very mini-vanish to me just from the rounded design. Something to bring the kids to swing sets in woodbridge va, but not necessarily looking like the old Jeep that I used to want, or own.

The Cherokee name dates to 1974, when it was used for a two-door version of the Jeep Wagoneer, a body-on-frame utility vehicle. The more familiar second generation debuted for 1984, and was notable for being one of the first unibody SUVs, if not the first. Yes, Virginia, a unibody does not necessarily a crossover make -- that Cherokee integrated lower frame rails and cross-members into its unibody structure, making for a stronger, lighter, and quieter structure. Offered in both two- and four-door form, it was one of the few bright spots in the dying days of then-owner American Motors Corporation (AMC). And it, and the rest of the Jeep line, were likely important reasons for Chrysler buying AMC in 1987. full review

2014 Acura TL SH-AWD Review

Acura likes to bring new tech to their vehicles and keep them up to date. Not just with the fun stuff inside to entertain you, but with thin the body of the vehicles to ensure you have the most comfort and control you can imagine. Priced in the mid-$40k range this isn't for everyone, but it still fits into the sports luxury lower end range I would say whether you are driving to reidsupply.com to work, or Wall Street you will look and feel just fine in an Acura TL SH-AWD

"SH-AWD" is an acronym for "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive". When it was introduced back in 2000, it was the first AWD system to use active torque vectoring to send more torque to the outside rear wheel during hard cornering to help turn-in, and reduce understeer. It uses sophisticated electronic sensors and integration of the car's multiple electronic control modules to seamlessly improve adhesion on dry or slippery surfaces, in any weather and all seasons. It was first used in the TL when the fourth generation debuted for 2009. full review

2014 BMW 5 Series Review

If you would rather just drive yourself than to get chauffeured around by http://www.tampalimotransportation.com/, the 5 Series is a pretty good car to do it in. The test drive vehicles are out and we can get a sneak peak into the newly designed BMW 5 Series from Henny Hemmes.

BMW has been aware of the critical comments on the somewhat bulky looking rear of the GT. They took it serious and focused on a more dynamic design for the update in the middle of the 5 Series life cycle.

Before starting our test drives, exterior designer Fabian Clottu explained how this has been achieved: “We optically lowered the complete rear end with a longer hatch and a larger angle. The creases are deeper and the horizontal chrome list has been moved downwards to a lower position.”

2013 Honda Accord Sedan Touring V6 6-Spd AT Review

The 2013 Honda Accord Sedan Touring V6 6-Spd is a mouthful when written like that. Let's just call it the 2013 Honda Touring. Much easier right? Now I can relax with a place to buy padron cigars and just keep on rambling about it.

At $33,430 (without the $790 destination charge) it is priced about where most of its competitors are if you carefully match up content. And, what intense competition it has with the new Fusion, great entries from Hyundai and Kia, a sporty Nissan Altima, well-equipped Camry, and lots of others. The Accord comes is five trim levels with two powertrains in either coupe or sedan starting at $21,680 for the four-cylinder manual transmission car. Altogether they sell more than 300,000 Accords a year. full review

2014 Chevrolet SS Priced at $44,470

Well...Chevy has themselves a bit of a pricey low level sports sedan now do they? Not a very memorable name here either is it? "SS"? Probably not as memoralbe as: kitchen cabinet organizers at ovisonline.com

The U.S.-exclusive SS – Chevrolet’s first rear-drive performance sedan since 1996 – comes well-equipped in only one model, with a power-operated sunroof ($900) and full-size spare tire ($500) as the only options.

“The all-new SS is engineered for performance enthusiasts who’ve been clamoring for a rear-wheel-drive sedan,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “Adding the SS to the lineup further solidifies Chevrolet’s position as America’s best-selling performance-car brand and completes a trifecta that includes the all-new 2014 and Camaro Z/28.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio Review

The VW Bug is on of the most classic vehicles ever made. Bringing up childhood memories of riding down the road and earning a black and blue upper arm from the imminent "SLUG BUG RED!" from a sibling. They were much more prevalent when I was a kid and it seemed that I would get a couple of those hits every time we got into the car. Of course few of those came with the "Oops...thought I saw one...hahaha!". Now we fight about things like a System Mechanic slow computer fix.

Anyways...

Spring is here, and what could be a better car for Spring than a convertible? But since Spring weather can be unpredictable and quickly changing in temperature and precipitation -- no matter where you live -- said convertible should have a top that can be dropped or raised quickly, and that top should insulate well against both heat and cold. It would also help if the convertible was actually affordable, by real people, not multi-millionaires. And while we're wishing, why not room for four of those real people, and maybe even a little space in the trunk with the top down? full review

2013 Scion FR-S Review

Mr. Toyoda was unimpressed with his line of cars that made people want to drive for fun, and drive fast. He asked his people “Where is the passion in our lineup?” When they found none he followed up with, “I want to build a sports car.” This is the 2013 Scion FR-S, a true sports car.

Scion, is Toyota’s "youth" division. With products that are inexpensive, versatile, and fun, they hope to bring youngsters into the fold so, as they mature and prosper, they can move on to Toyota and Lexus products. Scion products tend also to be stylish enough and customizable, qualities that appeal to young, first-time new car buyers. The new FR-S is essentially the ‘halo’ car for the Scion brand as it encompasses all those values and that philosophy plus it provides a huge measure of sporting raceability as a big bonus. The younger crowd with their briefcases from GotBriefcases.com can ride to work in style and get all the ladies they want.

So, Subaru partnered with Toyota to develop the FR-S so that both have a version of the ultimate product and share the huge development costs that come with any clean-sheet-of-paper project like this. Teams of engineers and designers from each brand combined their talents and resources to come up with a car that will serve both brands. The Subaru version is called BRZ and I’ve not experienced that one yet. It will be the only Subaru without all-wheel drive. full review

2013 Cadillac ATS Review

The 2013 Cadillac ATS falls right in line with with Cadillac's new brand and product line. Reinventing itself to beat the competition in todays' markets while still having the elite quality and style that Caddy owners have always expected. They certainly will be impressed enough with the new lines that they won't be running into cheap yard sign printing signs in disgust that's for sure.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS 2.0T puts Cadillac on the road to increased sales and puts the competition on the ropes with its masterful blending of style, features and most importantly performance.

At first glance, the bold but elegant statuette is formed by the double creases that run the length of the sedans compact body. The contemporary look and lean line is extended and further enhanced by the unique geometric cutouts afforded the windows, door handles and more impressively in the front head lamp housing that encompasses the hood’s bold creases.

2013 Lexus ES 350 Review

You know I love my Lexus'. Those and the Jaguars are probably my favorite models of cars for something that isn't in the $500K price range anyways. AT least I can afford homes for sale jacksonville nc if I were to buy one of these, and not be forced to live in a ghetto somewhere.

Toyota created Lexus to compete at the highest levels of both performance and luxury and it was a winner, earning the number 1 position in luxury vehicle sales…then the tsunami hit Japan. Now the Lexus brand is back, and the 2013 ES 350 is the latest product that will help invigorate the brand, restore lost sales and attract new customers because of its balance of features; performance; and refinements that will be difficult for competitors to duplicate, much less replicate. full review

2013 Acura MDX Review

The Acura MDX crossover of the luxury SUV class debuted the model in 2000. It had a second generation in 2007 and has been riding strong against the competition ever since it came out as one of the first of its kind. Not expected to have a new generation until 2014, but it still has plenty of improvements over the years and this year is no different. It won'[t take a team of research San Diego lawyers to give you the rundown on it either.

As is the Acura Way, the MDX is offered in one specification, with a 300-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine driving the wheels through a six-speed automatic with paddle-shift manual mode. A power tilt-and-slide moonroof, rear privacy glass, heated outside mirrors, Xenon HID headlamps, a power tailgate, a power tilt- and reach-adjustable steering wheel with leather rim and auxiliary controls, leather seating with heated front seats, split reclining and folding rear seats and two third-row seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, power everything you'd expect in a luxury vehicle, and storage compartments and cupholders galore, and much more are all standard fare. full review

2013 RAM 2500 CNG Pickup Review

I just can't get used to writing the Ram name without having "Dodge" in front of it. It just doesn't look right does it? It matters not of course. It's still the same truck, made by ummm...Dodge. It just doesn't use the Dodge name anymore.

Anyways, the 2013 is being called the Truck of the Year in just about every place that has a chance to drive one. This one happens to run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) so it has a bit of an interesting write up here that sets it a bit a part from other reviews. Probably a favorite of at least one of the greats at Levein Team real estate too.

The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty CNG pickup was initially designed for fleet and commercial customers and offers cost and emissions benefits. The Ram 2500 Heavy Duty can run on either compressed natural gas (CNG) or gasoline. It starts up using gasoline, switches immediately to CNG, and, if CNG is exhausted, switches back again to gasoline — all without any need for driver input. Natural gas is usually domestically sourced in the United States and Canada, reducing dependence on foreign oil. CNG demonstrates a reduction of 70 to 90 percent of smog-producing pollutants and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emission.

2013 Dodge Dart Limited Review

This car won't be featured at any conventions behind portable stanchions ropes, but it may intrigue some. With a sticker starting prive of $25,065, and 27 MPG city, and 39 MPG high way, it isn't the best deal out there I'd imagine.

The Bottom Line: The Dodge Dart I drove may be a bit underpowered, but it has a lot of features that make it attractive, such as keyless entry, a powered driver's seat, blind spot monitor, back-up camera and cross path detection, and a heated steering wheel.

As the first vehicle to be built off Fiat Group architecture, the Dodge Dart has certainly aroused interest. the basis for the Dart is the Alfa Romeo Giuletta. This base platform, however, has been lengthened and widened to make it more American. It is also built in the United States and contains 52 percent American or Canadian parts. Mexico contributes another 21 percent to the product. full review

2012 Toyota Camry Review

AS America's best selling car for the past 9 years tit is more likely I'd have to tell you to click here for gold coin values to give me that info rather than to give me a roundabout price on a Camry. Heck, you might even already own one. First introduced in 1983, Camry has been America’s best selling car for nine consecutive years and for 13 out of the last 14 years. So you've certainly seen your fair share of them I am sure.

The 2013 Camry hasn’t been announced yet, but it is expected to be unchanged. The 2012 model that I’m driving is very representative of the 2013 and you should keep on reading if you are shopping a midsize car.

Yes, the Camry has been everybody’s darling and satisfied many drivers from all walks of life who seek good reliable transportation in a not-to-expressive design. Well that’s changed with the all-new 2012 Camry. Styling is more sophisticated with a bolder design, a more spacious interior, a quieter ride, and better driving dynamics that provide a more-connected feeling with the road. full review

2013 Cadillac XTS Review

Been a while since i looked into Cadillacs, but they have always been some of the cars that I looked to for the mid-life luxury class. My aunt and uncle always drove Caddies and they loved them. I guess that is why they always make me think of the 50-60 year old couple that is a bit lazy, but has a good income. Government jobs that they can't possibly get fired from no matter how poorly they do their jobs. You know what I mean.

You won't usually find the young college kids wearing their northface fleece jacket driving around in a Caddy that's for sure.

American expectations for a luxury car are not what they once were. The extra-large, softly-suspended, V8-powered insulating cocoon on wheels -- exemplified most recently in the Cadillac line by the late DTS, and DeVille and Fleetwood before it -- is gone. Today's luxury car buyer is more likely than his or her parents and grandparents to be influenced by European and Asian ideas concerning luxury cars, meaning smaller on the outside while still spacious within, having useable power coupled with reasonable fuel economy, and with all of the latest electronic gadgetry and connectivity in addition to the traditional luxury accoutrements.

In Cadillac terms, the new 2013 XTS. full review

2013 Chevrolet Spark Review

Bargain cars are the theme today and the Chevy Spark certainly fits into that category with a MSRP ranging from $12,995 up to the top of the line 2LT is priced at $15,795. With a price like that you can certainly celebrate with a some nice opus x cigars. The 2013 Chevrolet Spark is a front-drive, four-seat, five-door hatch powered by a 1.25-L, 84HP four-cylinder engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy ratings are 34 mpg for the manual and 32 mpg for the automatic. full review

2012 Volkswagen Golf R Review

For some reason I had always thought of this car as a cheap little fuel economy car. No idea where I got that idea from. I guess the name of it seems to be that sort of vehicle to me. It's not very "flashy" in my opinion so I always expected it to be one of those Ford Focus type budget cars. Not exactly the case. Get your spray on tan and get ready for a fast drive in a $35,000 car.

The Golf R is a pretty amazing little car. It drives superb with the 256 HP turbo 2-liter engine pushing through a 6-speed manual and putting power to the pavement through the 4MOTION all-wheel drive. Zero to 60 takes about 5.7 seconds and the R tops out at 130mph. All this can be had for around $35,000 of your hard earned cash. full review

2013 Ford Taurus Review

The Ford Taurus has made a lot of changes over the years. It's one of those cars though that almost everyone you know has owned at some point when they picked it up used as a youngster. It wasn't too dorky looking and ran well enough for the most part. You didn't feel like a total loser driving one around at least. If I remember correctly, the older 80s-90s Taurus' had either a problem with their brakes, or it was some sort of problem with the transmission. All I know is that between that, or one of my older Luminas I had issues with the transmission and every person I talked to said the same thing. "Oh yeah...all those cars have a problem with the transmission at around 100K miles", or something along those lines. Young guys having to get a transmission fixed wasn't exactly a banner day I can tell you that. It isn't a cheap thing to get done. Ends up sitting in the back yard as a bed for pet. Move forward to 2013 and the Taurus is completely different. It looks much sleeker, and has been completely redesigned. In fact it is much different even than the 2012 model. Although the basic architecture underneath hasn't changed, a moderate restyle of the hood and front fascia gives a refreshed appearance, also improved with projector-beam headlights. Unseen behind the grille, an active shutter system uses aerodynamics to help improve highway fuel economy. LED taillights distinguish the rear. Torque Vectoring Control uses electronic sensors and the stability control system to improve cornering behavior under acceleration. All versions of the 2013 Taurus use electrically-assisted power steering, which simplifies, reduces weight, and further helps improve fuel economy. The standard engine in the SE, SEL, and Limited models is a 3.5-liter V6, but this one has a host of upgrades to improve both power output, now 288 horsepower, and fuel economy, with 29 mpg allegedly possible on the highway. Want better economy with little loss of power? Ford's new 2.0-liter "EcoBoost" four-cylinder uses turbocharging and direct fuel injection to make a maximum of 240 horsepower when needed, with over 30 mpg possible on the highway. With more torque than the V6 -- 270 lb-ft vs. 254 -- performance is unlikely to suffer much. Both engines are matched with a six-speed automatic transmission to optimize acceleration and economy. Want more power? That would be the SHO, with 365 EcoBoosted horsepower and some new features of its own. But that's a different story for a different time. full review

2012 Honda CR-V Review

The 2012 Honda CR-V starts out at $22,495 running up to $29,995. It falls into the "compact SUV" class/market of vehicles. The fourth-generation CR-V made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November and went on sale in December 2011. Exterior styling is significantly improved. Fuel economy gets a boost and the all-wheel-drive system is new. EPA ratings are 23 city mpg and 31 highway mpg for the 2wd models, and 22 city mpg and 30 highway mpg for the AWD models. That’s on regular grade fuel. The fuel tank holds 15.3 gallons and that should be good for about 450 miles of highway cruising with your Spy Sunglasses on. Living in a snowy-winter region, I would be hard pressed to decide to opt for the AWD vs 2WD with the price increment only $1250 and the fuel economy difference only 1 mpg. Honda certainly hasn’t made this decision easy. However, in a non-snowy region I would stick with the 2WD, especially since the CR-V drives through the front wheels that gives some advantage in slippery road conditions over a RWD vehicle architecture. full review

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Review

The Chevy Malibu is a car I remember rolling along in to the beach with a buddy of mine who had an old classic convertible Malibu. I think it was a 1968-69 Malibu. Metallic blue. One of those a guy restores and keeps in his garage all winter and dreams of showing it off at shows, or just simply to pick up women in our redneck area of living. Let's just say that we picked up more women when the car was parked and we weren't sitting in a car with a couple of guys shouting out of it like animals. I believe he has long sold it to help pay for his Wilmington nc homes for sale. The new 2013 Malibu comes in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels, in addition to the ECO. Prices start at $23,150 for the LS and top out at $30,925 for the LTZ. The ECO has a base price of $26,095 and from an equipment comparison standpoint is most similar to the LT model with a base price starting at $24,765. That’s $1330 more for the ECO technology. The test car was the ECO 2SA model with an MSRP of $26,845. A Leather Package for $1300 brought leather seat trim, a front passenger power seat and heated front seats. Add in $325 for the Crystal Red exterior and $760 destination charge and things top out at $29,230. full review