2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan

In any given year, I drive between 75 and 100 different vehicles. And we’re talking about everything from the Chevrolet Aveo to the Lamborghini Gallardo. So it is with complete sincerity and a fair bit of knowledge that I say this: You will not find a better car for the money than the all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis.

Seriously.

I mean, here we have a handsome vehicle that – at a base level – has standard features such as leather seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, side-curtain airbags, iPod and auxiliary input jacks, a proximity key with bush-button start, Bluetooth phone system, heated front seats and traction control. Then you have the fact that it looks like a Lexus or a Mercedes. Plus, you could add in the rear-wheel drive platform and the base V-6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower.

Take a good look at the picture of the Genesis and forget that we’re talking about a Hyundai for a minute. With the way this car looks and the amenities that are included, what price tag would you give it? Have you got that number in your head? How does it compare to $33,000? If you gave an honest answer, it probably wasn’t even close.

To read the rest of the review, visit SearchChicago - Autos.

I couldn't see the speedometer, officer

Luckily, I haven't been pulled over for speeding in the last six or seven years (knock on wood). But, I often wonder if the cop would accept that I didn't know how fast I was going because the steering wheel was covering the speedometer.

This is an unfortunate event that happens in many test cars as I pull the steering wheel down for a more comfortable driving position. The top of the the wheel, as pictured above, the cuts across the top of the gauges, severely limiting my ability to see how fast i'm going.

And in a car like the Nissan Maxima, you just want to go fast because it's fun. Then you're going 70 or 80 before you know it. I'm hoping I won't have to ask this question of Chicago's Finest any time soon ... but here's to hoping they'll have a little understanding for my position (literally), if I do.

Aston Martin ... spam?

So, when did Aston Martin start sending out spam e-mails? I typically get a lot of interesting e-mails on my work address because I, well, write about cars. But I keep work and personal e-mails very separate. So, the above e-mail is interesting on a couple different levels.

First it's from a dealer in Florida, and I live in Chicago, Ill.

Second, I'm wondering where I possibly could have surfed or what I possibly could have filled out that would make someone, anyone, think that I could afford an Aston Martin. I mean, the monthly lease for the V8 Vantage is more than my mortgage payment. Eek! Then again, I guess I could just live in the car ... Hmmm.

Maxima flared rear wheel wells

One of the more visually appealing views out a side mirror, in my opinion, is the flared rear wheel well on the 2009 Nissan Maxima. Every time I check a blind spot, I see that gentle sloping swoop, and I stop for a minute to remember what car I'm in. It could be a sports car. Or an elegantly shaped coupe. Some kind of expensive exotic, perhaps.

Instead, it's the self-avowed 4-Door Sports Car. The much improved Maxima has personality and style. It has a sporty ride, and it's very easy to forget you're driving a (yawn) sedan. There's nothing sleepy about this car, and I'm reminded of it every time I look right or left.

I know the picture I snatched out the window while at a stop light (honest), isn't the best view of this excellent design feature. Though the El in the background is a nice touch if I do say so myself. ... So, check out the photo gallery.

What's a name worth? $42K?

After my Audi A3 review, I got the following letter from a reader:

"I saw an A3 on the street the other day, and liked what I saw. Went to the Audi site to do a “build” and was flabbergasted at the cost. How on earth does a car like this fully equipped at $42,125 get any traction the in the marketplace?

"I do a lot of research before buying a new car every 3 years or so. Why does this car cost so much more than a new Subaru WRX for example? Pound for pound it appears the A3 has got to be the worst value around!"

I've had this same thought about a lot of cars that I've driven lately. Take the Hyundai Genesis for example (review to be published on Monday!). Here we have a car that's probably worth an easy $50K. It comes standard with leather seats, iPod integration, Bluetooth, heated seats, a 290-horsepower V-6, etc. It's very attractive and incredibly comfortable. Yet the price for all this is $33K. And if you want to completely deck it out with all the whistles and bells like navigation and premium sound system, you're still only looking at $40K. Want the extra horsepower that comes with a V-8? You're still only going to pay $42K.

Yet luxury brands like Audi, Mercedes, BMW and Lexus will double that price for exactly the same thing. And in some cases, like I reported in the A3 story, you won't be getting better quality. It's worse!

So, to answer the reader's question: How does the vehicle gain traction in the marketplace? It's all about the name.

2010 Toyota Prius

I really didn’t think it was possible.

During the press conference, Akihiko Otsuka, chief engineer for the 2010 Toyota Prius, issued a challenge. He said that he managed to get 62.9 mpg during a one-hour drive, and he dared all the journalists in the room to do better.

Gauntlet thrown, we filed out of the room and hit the road in the third-generation Prius. Some of us took it seriously. Some of us deliberately tried to thwart the Prius’s high EPA ratings. But all of us had a solid day behind the wheel of the iconic hybrid. Thus began the “Beat the Chief” challenge.

Read the rest of the 2010 Toyota Prius review on SearchChicago - Autos.

And, in case you missed it, the video interview regarding the 2010 Prius with Bob Carter from the Chicago Auto Show:

Price wars: Prius vs. Insight

OK. As an AP story released today points out: It's true the base price for the 2010 Honda Insight is about $2K less than the price for the 2010 Toyota Prius. But, when you consider what you're getting for the $2K, I'd say "war" is a strong word. In fact, I'd go so far as to say there's no comparison.

Now, I do have to admit that Honda has not given me the opportunity to drive the all-new Insight yet. But, I have driven the Prius, and I can read a press release. So, with what I've experienced in the new Prius and what I can see on paper regarding the Insight, I think that the price difference is simply a misdirection.

What you should be thinking about is that the Prius is a full hybrid that can drive in electric-only mode. It's more midsize and less compact than the Insight. It gets up to 50 mpg in combined driving, and I witnessed a guy who tried to get poor fuel economy and only managed to get as low as 25 mpg in city driving. Plus, the ride and handling in the new Prius is awesome. Fit and finish is well done. Standard features are nice. Optional features like a solar panel are really cool.

While I can't speak to any of these characteristics in the Insight, I can say that it only gets 40 mpg in city driving and 43 mpg on the highway. Since it's not a full hybrid and the motor only turns off when at a complete stop, I have to imagine it wouldn't hold up nearly as well as the Prius in slow, stop-go-traffic.

So, while $2K seems like a lot of money in the hybrid wars, all I have to say is think about it. From what I've seen so far, the Prius is the better hybrid,and a couple grand is a small price for true fuel economy and forward-thinking features.

2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: I really think diesel is a good idea. It’s not the end-all, be-all fuel solution, but it’s a start.

Especially when you have a clean diesel like the 2009 VW Jetta TDI that is 50-state compliant.

Don’t think that’s a big deal? Well, Jetta just happens to be the first clean diesel that was available for sale in all 50 states. Definitely a big deal.

Read the rest of the article on SearchChicago - Autos.

Honda in New York

So, Honda just released a very intriguing image for their press conference on April 8 at the New York Auto Show. You can't see much but a sleek, sexy outline. Is it an Acura? Is it a Honda? Is it a production vehicle or a concept?

My guess is Acura. My hope is production car. What do you think it is?

2009 Mitsubishi Outlander

I don’t know why, but I’m entranced by the taillights on the 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander.

It’s amazing how such a small thing can affect your view of an entire vehicle. This one little feature, in my opinion, makes the whole Outlander.

The focal point for this compact crossover is the clear plastic that covers glowing red and orange bulbs. With a little bit of a downward slant, they scream: Look at me! The eye tends to follow as they wrap slightly around the tail end of the vehicle. The side profile is both sleek and a little rugged, and it has a little bit of the Euro BMW X5 if you catch it at the right angle. The front sweeps into a bold, blunt nose with wraparound headlights and a simple Mitsubishi emblem on the grille.

Overall, the exterior is attractive. And it begins with the taillights.

Read the rest of the story at: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1483639,JC031909_mitsubishi-outlander.article

Can Scion catch up?

When Toyota Motor Sales launched the Scion brand in 2004, it was new and different. And it set a trend. It was hip, it was exciting, it was advanced. And it targeted a younger market with forward thinking technologies and intense customization ... for an affordable price. The brand eschewed traditional media for marketing in favor of grass-roots efforts and word-of-mouth viral media. It had cool Web sites. It was on Second Life. It was at clubs and kitschy events.

It appeared to be wildly popular and unique.

And everyone tried to emulate Scion.

Then, well, nothing happened.

Scion said it would completely replace its lineup every couple years so that it would keep things fresh and never have a "second" generation. Then it launched the second-generation xB. Which was more mainstream, less cool and much more inside that blasted box Scion tried to get out of. The xD was basically the second generation of the xA, and the tC has never been touched. Pricing went up. The ability to customize your vehicle went down.

We've heard nothing of note from Scion for a couple years now. Which I think is depressing. But the automaker announced today that it's going to be launching a concept car at the New York Auto Show on April 8. Does this mean there's hope for the brand yet? Per the announcement, the brand appears to be launching a new vehicle into its lineup, and it is still trying to be a forward thinker:


"TORRANCE, Calif., March 18, 2009 – Scion will unveil a micro-subcompact concept car at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. The concept reflects Scion’s youthful image and represents a new segment for the brand aimed toward the growing urbanization trend. ... "


So, is this a good move on Scion's part? Is the brand still relevant? And what do you think this concept car/new model will look like? Is it Scion's turn to be the follower?

GM's Wagoner overexaggerates?

OK, as you may have already realized, I'm not a proponent of General Motors declaring bankruptcy. But a story just released by The Associated Press quotes GM's Chief Exec Rick Wagoner as saying that the automaker would have to liquidate if it enters Chapter 11.

That's just a bit much, dontcha think? I can see some extreme paring down. I can see drastic layoffs. I can see two brands instead of eight in the United States. But liquidation? Come on. Even for me, that's taking it a bit too far.

What do you think? If GM declares bankruptcy, will their name be MUDD? Will they lose so many customers that liquidation is imminent? Or is this newest gust from Wagoner pure bluster?

2010 Chevrolet Camaro

It's about time. One year after the re-entry of the Dodge Challenger, Chevrolet finally brings out its new Camaro. Better late than never, I guess, but I'll be curious to see how this new pony car measures up. I've not driven the new Camaro, but after having driven both the 2010 Mustang and the 2009 Challenger, I have to say that Camaro has a lot to live up to.

Pricing information is as follows:

1LS (304-horsepower, V-6 engine): $22,995
1LT (304-horsepower, V-6 engine): $24,630
2LT (304-horsepower, V-6 engine): $27,330
1SS (426-horsepower, V-8 engine): $30,995
2SS (426-horsepower, V-8 engine): $34,180

For a look at the production model, check out the photo gallery on the SearchChicago - Autos Web site.

Lately, I’ve driven a string of vehicles that I’ve loved. The 2009 Infiniti G37x sedan is no different. It’s sporty. It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s got all-wheel drive. In fact, I couldn’t think of a single thing I’d add to this car to make it any better. Well, maybe a racetrack in my backyard, but that’s more about me and less about the car.

And what a car.

While the exterior sheet metal of Infiniti’s G sedan remain the same, you’ll note the new designation of “37” for 2009. This denotes the engine upgrade, as the G37 now carries the new VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V-6 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology under its hood. This engine delivers 328 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. That’s an increase of 22 horsepower and 1 pound-feet of torque over the previous 3.5-liter V-6 offered in the 2008 model.

Read the rest of the story at: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1474306,JC031309_infiniti-g37x.article

Good news from GM, finally

In a statement released today, General Motors stated that they won't, in fact, need the $2B they requested from the government for the month of March. Specifically, the statement reads:


"In the U.S., GM has also indicated they have advised the Presidential Task Force on The Auto Industry that the $2 billion of funding previously requested for March would not be needed at this time. This development reflects the acceleration of GM's company-wide cost reduction efforts as well as pro-active deferrals of spending previously anticipated in January and February. GM will remain in regular contact with the Presidential Task Force on the Auto Industry on the status of GM's restructuring actions, its liquidity position, timing of future funding requests, and other relevant topics of mutual concern."

I think this bodes well for the future of GM, and I stand firm in my belief that GM should not and will not declare bankruptcy. It's going to take a little bit of time and a lot of cuts and a lot of effort, but as long as the company remains in active cost containment, I think they have a good chance of pulling this off.

Do you? There's still time to vote in this week's poll at the right.

For more details, visit the AP story posted on SearchChicago - Autos.

Dodge Ram gains market share, beats 2009 F-150

Well, at least there's some good news for Chrysler. In a press release sent out earlier this week by Chrysler Group, the automaker noted that the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 had total market share in the full-size pickup segment of 20 percent in February.

I'm not sure that it's the best time to be peddling a full-size pickup truck, but I suppose any good news at this point is news worth sharing. Below is the press release, which also lists the awards the 2009 Ram has won thus far.

============================

Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 continued its winning streak, bringing home yet another award in the highly competitive pickup truck segment, receiving the New England Motor Press Association’s (NEMPA) 2009 Winter Vehicle Award -- Best-In-Class Pickup. The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram has won 13 awards since its introduction.

Total Dodge Ram market share, including the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500, was 20 percent in February. This is the best share of the full-size pickup segment in more than five years for Dodge Ram.

“The full-sized truck game tends to focus on evolution rather than revolution, but the new Dodge Ram rejects conventional wisdom in several major ways,” said John Paul, Coordinator, NEMPA Winter Vehicle Testing. “It uses a multi-link coil-spring rear suspension to tame the ride and utilizes the sides of the bed for useful storage bins that’s otherwise wasted in other trucks. The new HEMI puts out 390 horsepower and features cylinder deactivation which improves fuel economy.”

In February, more than 50 members of the NEMPA gathered for their annual Winter Vehicle voting day. Vehicles were chosen based on how they met specific needs of New England drivers during winter.

The New England Motor Press Association is unique among regional motor press groups. Its media members represent all six New England states, reaching one of the largest populations in America. These automotive writers and talk show hosts influence consumers who are in the market to buy cars and trucks in order to cope with the region’s punishing weather conditions.

“It’s an honor to have the New England Motor Press Association recognize our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram with this award,” said Scott Kunselman, Vice-President Jeep®/Truck Product Team, Chrysler LLC. “This award is a testament to the design, capability and unmatched ride and handling of our all-new Dodge Ram.”

About the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram
The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram includes the industry first-and-only RamBox cargo management system that includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated, drainable storage bins; pickup bed dividers; a two-foot bed extender and a cargo rail system with sliding adjustable cleats. The 2009 Ram also includes the first-in-segment coil-spring five-link rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle providing ride and handling not found on any other pickup truck. A new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with fuel-saving MDS technology provides more horsepower (390 hp) and torque (407 lb.-ft.) while its best-in-class aerodynamics (.387 Cd) improve fuel economy and performance.

In addition, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram includes a first-in-segment, factory-installed four-inch dual exhaust styled dramatically into the rear bumper, first-in-segment store-in-the-floor storage bins, twice as many storage spots than the previous model and 35 safety and security technologies. Standard features include side-curtain air bags and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) which includes all-speed traction control, trailer sway control, hill-start assist and anti-lock brake system (ABS). Significantly upgraded interiors with a segment-first surround-sound audio system and live SIRIUS Backseat TV™ round out the interior.

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab recently earned Five Star ratings for driver- and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest ratings in the U.S. government’s safety crash test program. The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 is $22,170 (including $900 destination).

In addition to winning NEMPA’s Best in Class Pickup Award, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram has earned 12 other key awards since its introduction and was recently chosen by Car and Driver as the best full-size pickup in a head-to-head comparison test in Texas, beating the new 2009 Ford F-150. Other key awards include:

• MotorWeek – Best Pickup Truck
  
• Consumer Guide - Large Pickup – Best Buy for 2009
  
• Cars.com – Work Truck of the Year
  
• ICOTY – 2009 International Truck of the Year
  
• Truckin’ magazine – Truck of the Year
  
• Texas Auto Writer's Association (TAWA) – 2009 Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas
  
• Edmunds.com – Inside Line Editors Most Wanted 2009
  
• Autobytel.com – 2009 MyRide/Autobytel Editors’ Choice Awards - Truck of the Year
  
• Maxim – Achievement in Party-Enabling Technology (RamBox)
  
• Ward's AutoWorld – Ward's 10 Best Engines of 2009 (2009 Dodge Ram 5.7-liter HEMI® engine)
  
• Automobile Journalists Association of Canada – Best New Pickup
  
• Sobre Ruedas – Sobre Ruedas Best Pickup Truck for '08
  
  

Infinity sound system in Kia Soul

Kia Soul Taillights

Kia Soul headlights

Kia soul

Today, I had the chance to test drive the all-new Kia Soul. Thirty-four were sold in February with just a smattering hitting dealerships. More Souls are hitting dealerships as I write this, and it's well worth a trip to your local shop to check this car out.

Without writing a full review, I'd like to say I have a very good initial impression of the Kia Soul. After driving both an automatic and manual transmission, I can say that Kia didn't scrimp on either. I thought I'd like the manual more because there's more control in the power department, but oddly, the automatic transmission is surprisingly nice. Mated to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Soul ends up being peppy off the start.

The visibility is great, the touch points are surprisingly solid, and yet again, if I didn't see the big "Kia" badging on the front and back of the car, I'd have no clue that this is a Kia.

Kia says that this is a halo car for the brand, but I wouldn't be surprised if it ends up being a volume seller. It's attractive in an unusual kind of way and it has a phenomenal amount of quality for a car that bases under $14K ... which includes air conditioning. Under $15K, it just keeps getting better and better.

Watch out Scion xB. I'm not sure you have a chance against this new urban utility vehicle.

2009 Audi A3

I really like the idea of the Audi A3.

It’s a compact, athletic package with a zippy personality. It seats five, has a luggage capacity of 19.52 cubic-feet and, depending on your engine choice, has a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.1 seconds. It’s easy to park, easy to maneuver and easy to drive. It’s attractive and comfortable and more than a little peppy. And it has a base price under $30,000.

Sounds perfect, right?

Well, in reality I have to admit that I didn’t completely love it.

Read the rest of the story: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1467911,JC031009_audi-a3.article

Chrysler & GM need to take a page from Ford's book

Ford has just reached an agreement with the UAW that includes freezing wages and cutting benefits. Since Chrysler and GM maintain contracts with the UAW, it is likely that they will reach a similar agreement soon. I hope.

The story is just now developing, but here's the AP story I have posted on my site: Ford workers approve UAW contract changes. The link will update automatically as the story does.

Bloopers

I figure you can't take yourself too seriously. So, we created a blooper reel from some of the video car reviews I did last year. We've got more coming ... because there is no shortage of Jill flubbing her lines, swearing on camera or just plain forgetting what she meant to say.

Good times.

Enjoy:

Even the Wall Street Journal gets it wrong

In an article today, the Wall Street Journal said that General Motors is "more open" to bankruptcy. Really? Did John D. Stoll and Neil King Jr. not read the same press release/statements from GM that I did? Per yesterday's blog post, everything I read said that in spite of the auditor's doubt, GM has not changed it's position regarding bankruptcy. Which means, that they still think it's not the best option. How does that translate into "more open"?

And again, if you look at the numbers I quoted yesterday, how is an in-court bankruptcy process going to cost less than an out-of-court restructuring?

At any rate, the WSJ article prompted GM to release yet another statement to clarify that they are not more open to bankruptcy:

"Contrary to today’s story in the Wall Street Journal, GM has not changed its position on bankruptcy.

"Restructuring the business out of court remains the best solution for GM and its constituents. The company has established a clearly-defined plan to restructure its business and restore GM to long-term viability, and GM is aggressively executing that plan through a series of actions outlined in its February 17 viability plan.

"As a prudent business measure, the company has analyzed various bankruptcy scenarios. However, the company firmly believes an in-court restructuring would carry with it tremendous costs and risks, the most significant being a dramatic deterioration of revenue due to lost sales."

Knobs vs. buttons

I never realized this could be an issue. But, I want a knob for my volume. I've been in the Mitsubishi Outlander for a couple days, and every time I want to turn up the volume, I reach over to the center stack to twirl a dial that isn't there, and I find myself grasping at air. Every time.

I know this is a feature I would get used to. Pressing an up or down button. However, I would miss the convenience of the dial. Really. Reach over and twirl, and the volume goes up or down six or seven levels in one fell swoop. In a second. But reaching over for the button, you have to press, press, press, press, press, press, press, press ... to get it to the appropriate level.

So, all I have to say is: Bring back the dial!

Bankruptcy for GM?

Today, it was released in GM's annual report filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange commission that the company's auditors express doubt of the ability for GM to continue without declaring bankruptcy.

When you think about it, from a money point of view, they kind of have a point. Over the last 3 years, General Motors has issued a net loss of nearly $80B according to reports I could find on the GM Media Web site. We're looking at losses of $2B in 2006, $43.3B in 2007 and $30.9B in 2008. Then you have the fact that GM posted a 53 percent drop in sales for February 2009 over February 2008. The automaker has thus far received $13.4B from the government and is seeking a total of $30B.

The prognosis doesn't seem to look that great.

But, I would still argue that GM won't necessarily need to declare bankruptcy.

First, look at the product in the pipeline. From the Pontiac G3 to the Chevrolet Cruze to the hybrid pickup trucks to the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, there's a lot of good stuff here. The automaker is working toward a high tech and fuel efficient lineup. Remember their tagline: "From gas friendly to gas free"? It's so true.

While you have a lot of stick-in-the-mud manufacturers who refuse to acknowledge hybrids as a viable business plan or who are happy with the status quo of their lineups, I've seen GM constantly search for alternatives. In my article "Fuel Frenzy" from January of 2008, I break down GM's fuel friendly initiatives, including Project Driveway, which put 100 fuel cell vehicles directly in the hands of consumers.

Aside from the Honda FCX Clarity, I haven't seen a lot of real-world attempts by manufacturers to find a solution to our dependency on oil. In my mind, GM is the manufacturer who's been consistently stepping up to the plate.

Yet we, the consumer, seem to pan them, avoid them and hurl insults at them every chance we get. Sure, they went through a rough patch with gas guzzling trucks and poor fit and finish, but have you looked at their product lately? What about the new Chevrolet Malibu? The Pontiac G8? The Cadillac CTS? Heck, even the Chevrolet Aveo is a really nice vehicle when it comes down to it.

Another reason I don't think GM should or will declare bankruptcy is that I don't think it's fiscally responsible. Per Appendix L in the viability plan GM submitted to the government on Feb. 17, GM would actually require less government funding in out-of-court restructuring than they would in three different bankruptcy scenarios considered by the company. We're talking $33B for the out-of-court restructuring vs. $45B, $57-70B and $86-103B for the three scenarios.

Not to mention the stigma associated with the word "bankruptcy." For an American automaker who's already been getting a bum rap, that could be the death knell. Consumer confidence would be shot to hell, more layoffs and cuts would ensue and, quite possibly, GM would not survive.

Some startling statistics GM quotes in its plan:

• 80% of people who intend to purchase a vehicle within six months said they would not acquire from a company that filed for bankruptcy. (CNW Research 7/08)

• 32% of new vehicle intenders who decided not to buy GM cited possible bankruptcy
discussions. Bankruptcy is #1 Reason for Avoidance for GM. (CNW Purchase Path
11/08)

• 21% of respondents indicated they were ―very likely‖ to acquire from the Big 3; figure drops to 10% if the Big 3 company was to go bankrupt, an overall reduction in purchase intent of 50%. (MORPace Research 11/21/08)

• 33% would not consider a Detroit-brand vehicle if the company were in bankruptcy
court. (USA Today/Gallup Poll 12/16/08)

• 39% of GM considerers in a national panel (representative of the general U.S.
population) said they would drop their consideration of GM if GM files for bankruptcy. (TNS Online Express Omnibus Survey 02/10/09)

So, while I think that GM has a tough road ahead, I do not think bankruptcy is a viable option. And, for now, GM seems to agree with me. Their response to the auditor's "going concern" is as follows:

"Auditors are required to assess whether there is substantial doubt about an entity's ability to continue as a going concern over the next year. Given GM's public statements on our liquidity position dating back to the end of 2008 and more fully disclosed in our February 17 viability plan submission, the opinion rendered in our 10-K was not unexpected.

"That opinion is dependent on a number of factors including our ability to execute our viability plan, compliance with our U.S. Treasury loans, volume recovery of the industry, and access to additional funding from the U.S. and certain other governments. Once global automotive sales recover and GM’s restructuring actions generate the anticipated savings and benefits, the company is expected to again be able to fund its own operating requirements.

"The auditor’s opinion has no impact on the aggressive actions we are taking to restructure our business for long-term viability."

Will GM survive? Why or why not? I would love to hear what you think. Remember, you don't have to log in to comment, you just have to select "Anonymous" from the drop down menu.

2009 Nissan Murano

One of the things that I really like about the Nissan Murano is that it looks different from the other crossovers currently roaming the roads. Its odd egglike shape gives it an edge over the competition because, in a time when a crossover is a crossover is a crossover, the Murano stands out.

For 2009 the Murano gets an overhaul, entering its second generation. Yet the Murano is still a Murano. In fact, at first glace from the side profile, you might not even notice a change. Move to the front or back, and the differences are very visible. The front end is opened up and simplified, and the headlights wrap around the grille, making the whole front fascia an integrated piece. The taillights have gone the way of the all-new Rogue and switch from a vertical placement to a horizontal one.

Read the rest of the article: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1458439,JC030409_nissan-murano.article

Taillights on the Mitsubishi Outlander

I just swapped into the 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander, and I think I've found my favorite feature on the SUV: the taillights. The clear plastic covering a series of bulbs that light up with red and orange depending on the bulbs underneath. They're pretty during the day and stunning at night. I took this picture when I was heading to work this morning and will try to get another at night.

Bright spot amid sales slump

All the stories for today on the February sales reports are leading with doom and gloom double-digit drops for all the major hitters. So, if you don't get to the end of the AP story I posted on my site today, you may not realize there are a couple of automakers who are doing OK ... relatively speaking.

Subaru actually posted a 1 percent gain over February 2008, with the brand's shining star being the all-new Forester. Sales of that vehicle doubled. And Kia pretty much remained flat. Hyundai posted a 2 percent decline. All things being considered, that's excellent.

I do have to admit, I had hoped that Hyundai's "Assurance" program would have pushed the Korean brand well ahead of the pack. Mostly because I was hoping that other automakers would follow suit with similar plans. Then again, 2 percent compared to 48 percent (Ford), 53 percent (GM), 44 percent (Chyrsler), 40 percent (Toyota), 38 percent (Honda), 37 percent (Nissan) ... doesn't seem bad at all.

I think more people would be willing to buy a new if an automaker said they'd take it back if those consumers lost their jobs.

Ford, GM, Toyota ... Really? Step up to the plate.

2010 Toyota Prius

We had the long lead look at the 2010 Toyota Prius last week, but they placed an embargo on the information until March 25. So, I can't tell you that I thought it was [censored]. And if I tried to tell you I [censored] the [censored] ... I could get in big trouble.

Since I'm not a fan of big trouble (honest), I figured I'd post a video from this year's Chicago Auto Show. I did a walk-around interview with Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division, and he shows us some of the new features on this third-generation hybrid.

Audi A3 Bluetooth phone book

I have to admit I'm not a fan of the MMI in any Audi vehicle. Then when you put it in the squat A3, it's even less lovable with it's tiny dial and far-away reach. But, I did discover something today that is making me reconsider: The Bluetooth phone interface. Not only is the phone easy to pair, but the functionality once your phone is paired is pretty cool. For example, unlike other systems, you don't have to upload your phone book into the system. It automatically pulls in your phone book, and if you've set someone's number to mobile, home or work, a little icon shows up on the screen so you can be sure to call the right number.

This I like. Well done. Now if they could just fix the rest of the MMI system. ...

Tom & Jill Hilarity

So, every year at the auto show, Tom Appel of Consumer Guide and I do a video at the show. Last year we discussed what was significant and not significant (Sorry, Traverse, I think you're great, but you're still not going to convince me you're significant). This year we went the green route and chose the three vehicles on everyone's green little tongue: 2010 Toyota Prius, 2011 Chevrolet Volt and the 2010 Honda Insight.

Serious stuff. So, where's the hilarity? Check out the camera angle for the last two segments of the video. Sure there's a disparity in size between me and Tom, but do I really have to look like one of the Littles? Note to self, I need to be forward frame when Tom and I do videos in the future ... Well, look for yourself.

Infiniti M35x article

The first thing I noticed when sliding behind the wheel of the 2009 Infiniti M35x was the “control panel” on the center stack. There were so many buttons and knobs it was slightly intimidating. And, I have to admit, I experienced the latent fear that I would accidentally hit a button, and the person in the seat next to me would eject out of the moon roof.

Read the rest: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1449961,JC022509_infiniti-m35x.article

Now I've gone and done it

I figured everyone one else is doing it, so why not? No, I'm not driving off a cliff, but in a way it kind of feels like it. Instead, I'm starting a blog for my automotive rants, comments and intellectual observations. And yes, Dad, my observations are occasionally intelligent. ; )

I welcome any and all comments -- as long as they're relevant. So, at this point, I haven't required that followers be registered to comment. I'll change that if I feel it's necessary. Spare me the unnecessarily rude posts, and I'll leave it alone. Constructive comments, however, are appreciated.

Story ideas, review requests and questions about the industry are also welcome.

And thus it begins. Welcome.