Chevrolet Camaro Driving Impressions

To borrow from Paris Hilton (cough, gag, ack): That's hot.

When the Camaro pulled up in front of the building, everyone in the office wanted a ride. And, I work mostly with women. The black paint. The orange leather seats. The slick orange inserts on the doors ... that light up at night. The ringed headlights that look slightly demonic in the dark. The sharklike nose. The slick six-speed manual transmission.

Sigh.

That's really hot.

This car pretty much makes me giddy all over. Though I have to say I didn't quite get the attention that I did when I drove the all-new Dodge Challenger for the first time. There were the points and the stares. But no one knocked on my window while I was sitting at a light. And no one asked me out on a date because I was driving such a cool car. And, yes, that did happen while in the Challenger.

Oh, well. Good thing I already have a boyfriend.

The SS model, which luckily is what the test car was, comes with a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that delivers 426 horsepower. (Insert Tim the Toolman Taylor grunt here.) And boy did it sound nice. It was a low rumble that kicked into a roar with a heavy footed acceleration. The downside: My gas mileage was about 13.4 mpg. I had to fill up the tank three times during the test period.

When I went to visit my boyfriend after driving out to the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet (no, Tony, I did not take it out on the track), the test vehicle was coated in dust. I got severely chastised, and before he would get in the car with me, he made me go get it washed. Whatever.

The verdict? I loved this car. But, I have to admit in the muscle car trio, I'm not quite sure how it stacks up. The Challenger probably wins in the flashy looks department -- especially in the Hemi Orange. And the Mustang has some phenomenal handling. But there's something very subtle, sexy and slightly menacing about the new Camaro that sucks me in.

Love it: pretty much everything.

Hate it: the gear shift that forces you to go from first to fourth gear if you're accelerating slowly, and the 13.4 mpg average mileage during the test week.

Can't live without it: the belly flip when I punch the accelerator as I merge onto the highway.

Honda Insight Driving Impressions

This car is really slick. OK. So it looks like a petite Prius. But still. I like the petiteness. (No comments from the peanut gallery here, please.)

But the problem with being so small is that I felt like I got pushed around a lot. (Ahem. Really. No comments, please). On the highway, it was like the slightest wind would blow me over. And that combined with the fact that the steering was very loose had me weaving if I didn't pay close attention.

In terms of looks alone, the Insight has a lot going for it. The interior design, for one, was really well done. The center stack and IMA gauges were really thoughtful in their simplicity and attractiveness. Everything was easy to reach, and I felt very close to everything I needed.

But I could see how this would be a problem for a bigger driver. And, I have to admit, there were times that even I felt too big or tall for the space. (Zip it.)

My absolutely favorite feature on this car was the gauge lighting on the speedometer. It turned a bright happy green when I was driving efficiently, and it turned an angry ice blue when I was being a speed demon. It was right in the line of my sight, and it was a constant reminder that I should pay more attention to my driving habits.

Another big bonus for the Insight is its accessible price point. At $19,800, it truly is the "hybrid for everyone." And when you tack on fuel economy at 40/43 mpg. Wow! Even better, I typically averaged around 48 mpg in my combined city highway driving. It would seem that the Insight would be the clear winner of the hybrid race that's brewing.

Not so much.

First off, the Insight is a mild hybrid. Which means that the engine will turn off when at a complete stop. But you can't drive in electric-only mode. And this is huge in a metropolitan area like Chicago. There's a lot of stop and go traffic that can keep you coasting at 15 to 20 mph for several miles at a time. And if you're in a full hybrid, and the battery is charged that's a lot of electric-only driving.

But it's when you get into the ride and handling and the overall execution of the hybrid that the real dirt starts to surface.

I already mentioned that I felt like I got pushed around on the highway and that the steering was loose. But the Insight also had a stiffer suspension than I would have expected, and every nick and groove in the road was clearly evident.

Then there were a couple things I didn't like about the hybrid part itself.

The on and off of the engine was a major downer. It was very evident and, honestly, downright clunky. I expected a smoother transition, but every off and on was a stutter and a shutter. After being in hybrids from Toyota, Ford and GM, this was an obvious oversight from Honda, and I was more than a little bit disappointed.

And I can't really call this a problem, but it is definitely worth noting: If you're in Eco Mode and you have the air conditioning on, it switches to fan only when you're at a stop and the engine shuts off. I didn't mind this too much because I'm always cold, but there were a couple of HOT days during the test period, and my dad was visiting. I thought he was going to melt. I get the whole conservation purpose of this (it is Eco Mode after all), but it's kind of unpleasant.

The verdict? I liked it but didn't love it. I think it opens up the world of hybrids to a whole new buyer at a whole new price point, which is great. But I think the execution could have been a wee bit better.

Love it: cool blue gauges, comfortable and attractive cloth seats, simple yet attractive interior design, easy to open and close rear hatch.

Hate it: the clunky on/off of the engine when the hybrid system kicks in, the feeling of being pushed around on the highway.

Can't live without it: green-and-blue lighting on the speedometer that clues you in to when you're driving well.

Camaro gauges at night

I know this crappy cell phone photo doesn't do the Camaro gauges justice, but I figured I'd try to share anyway. I really like the blue-and-red combo, and I thought it was really nice visual eye candy. Other than the orange door inserts that lit up at night, these gauges were one of my favorite interior features.

Even Giants Stumble

All of us have challenges. Sometimes we stumble. But at least it's usually only those closest to us who notice. And, in the grand scheme of things, it's not that big of a deal. We get up, we dust ourselves, and we keep going.

When an icon like General Motors stumbles, everyone notices. But sometimes people like me need to see the big guy fail … and then see him get back up again. It's actually a great life lesson. As The General dusts himself off, look for these three products to help our American giant keep going ...

To keep reading, view the article on MakeItBetter.Net.

Insight Eco Rating

No matter what I did during the test period, I could NOT raise my eco score. I was getting 48 mpg in many instances and yet when I turned off the car, I'd get this puny twig. Boo.

This is one of those instances where it could have lied to me and I would have been much happier. I know I'm not the greenest driver. But I really tried. And I was doing a lot of driving between the Chicago and Wilmette and Wheeling during the test period. A good amount of cruise controlled highway driving and light-footed acceleration. Honest.

Yet all I got was a puny twig for an eco score.

Honda Insight Center Stack

So, one of the things that Honda did really well with the new Insight is the design of the center stack. The cool blue lighting. The simple structure. Everything here is well placed and highly attractive. I was enthralled before I even put the car in drive.

There are some things I didn't like about the inside (driving impressions to come) ... but the interior is not one of them. From the soft cloth seating surfaces to the overall fit and finish, this is incredibly easy on the eyes.

And with a base price of $19,800 and an EPA mpg rating of 40/43 ... you almost can't beat it in the hybrid arena.

Koenigsegg to buy Saab?

I have to tell you I let out a HUGE sigh of relief when I read this tweet from @GMVolt: Koenigsegg to Buy Saab and Build Electric Supercar. Relief because I'm rooting for the General to survive. But also relief because the Saab 9-3 happens to be my favorite every-day car. I would shed real tears if it went away.

Not only does the deal call for the Saab brand to be maintained, but there's also new product slated. Hot damn!

Below is an abbreviated version of the press release:


General Motors and Koenigsegg Group AB Reach Tentative Agreement on Saab

Zurich -- General Motors Corp. and Koenigsegg Group AB, a consortium led by Koenigsegg Automotive AB, today confirmed the details of a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of Saab Automobile AB that secures Saab’s future.

The sale, expected to close by the end of the third quarter of this year, includes an expected $600 million funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) guaranteed by the Swedish government. Additional support is to be provided by GM and Koenigsegg Group AB to fund Saab's operations and product program investments. This includes plans to launch several new products that are in the final stages of development. Saab had filed for reorganization under Swedish Law on Feb. 20, 2009. This tentative agreement is a key milestone for Saab to successfully emerge from its reorganization process.

As part of the proposed transaction, GM will continue to provide Saab with architecture and powertrain technology during a defined time period. Additionally, Saab plans to produce its next generation 9-5 models in the Saab production facility in Trollhättan, Sweden.

The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale are not being disclosed at this time. Deutsche Bank acted as financial advisor to General Motors Corporation.

Aston Martin DB9 Is Plush Though Slightly Impractical

The car was right out front, and the key fob was in my hand. So, it wasn't like I needed the valet to do anything. Yet, when he saw the direction I was heading, he nearly tripped over himself to get to the car before me so that he could open the door. He half bowed as I slid behind the wheel.

Then again, I was driving a 2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante, so I didn't blame him for being overeager to get a glimpse inside the car. Because of the $198,200 price point, you just don't see these cars on the road every day.

The DB9 Volante is the Armani of the car world. It's one of those delectable dishes that is both the height of fashion and the pinnacle of performance. It's subtle yet stunning, and it is a definite attention-getter. It's like an accessory that every woman should have.

Read the rest of the review on MakeItBetter.net.

2009 Ford Edge Sport

Whenever I pick up my boyfriend in a new test vehicle, the first words out of his mouth are: “So, how do you like it?”

Behind the wheel of the 2009 Ford Edge Sport, I shrugged and said: “I like it.”

He looked at me with brows raised, the unspoken “and” hanging in the air.

"And, I like it."

I mean, there isn’t a lot of snazz and pizzazz with the Edge, but it’s a solid vehicle with attractive styling and decent acceleration. It’s comfortable. There’s excellent visibility out all windows. You’ve got 69 cubic-feet of storage with the rear seats down.

I like it.

It’s also a little bit clunky in terms of ride and handling and a little plain on the inside, but that really wasn’t enough to turn me off completely. So maybe it didn’t sing for me, but I like it.

To read the rest of this review, visit SearchChicago - Autos at: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1618434,061109-ford-edge2.article

2009 Lincoln MKS

It seemed like a good idea at the time. I was visiting my sister in Indianapolis (i.e. cheap sales tax), and I decided it was time to get a new TV. One problem: The box that houses a 40-inch TV isn’t quite compatible with an 18.7-cubic-foot trunk.

Luckily I was test driving a 2009 Lincoln MKS, which has a huge back seat and nice wide-opening rear doors. Even though the MKS fit my new TV perfectly, I’m pleased to report it’s much more than just a hauler for inanimate objects.

On the trek to Indy, I encountered hideous traffic. Not only was it a holiday weekend, but there was also construction on Interstate 65. It also happened to be the day before the Indianapolis 500.

So I had plenty of time to assess the comfort level of the driver’s seat. From the supple leather seats to the highly adjustable lumbar support, I was perfectly comfortable. My driving position was perfect, and visibility was excellent.

To read the rest of the story, Go to SearchChicago - Autos at: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/research/ciminillo/1607824,060409-Lincoln-MKS2.article

Saturn to be purchased by Penske?

As long as Saturn lives, I'm not sure that I care who buys it. The first car I bought was a 1997 Saturn SC1, and I loved her. Harriet (Sweet, Harriet) was a great car who got me through my move to Chicago. So, I'll always have a soft spot here. Not to mention the fact that I love the new Astra and Aura ... Saturn has a great lineup that deserves to live on.

Oh, and as an FYI, the release below doesn't say this, but Penske also owns Smart USA.

So, below is the press release GM sent out regarding a potential deal:


Detroit -- General Motors Corp. and Penske Automotive Group today confirmed details of a proposed transaction under which Penske would acquire the Saturn brand. If completed, the deal would save more than 350 dealerships and 13,000 jobs at Saturn and its retailers in the United States, and would preserve the customer-focused Saturn brand.

The proposed transaction is part of GM’s rebuilding efforts outlined in the viability plan that was submitted to the U.S. government earlier this year. Under the terms in the memorandum of understanding, Penske would obtain the rights to the brand as well as certain other Saturn assets. GM would continue production, on a contract basis, of the Saturn Aura, Vue and Outlook.

Saturn began selling cars in 1990 and has sold more than 4 million vehicles. More than 80 percent of those vehicles are still in operation, according to data from R.L. Polk. Saturn has regularly scored among the industry leaders for non-luxury brands in customer satisfaction surveys.

The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of this year and is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the agreement will not be disclosed at this time.

2010 Volvo XC60

I watched the car back up and then move forward again, only to stop abruptly. After a couple seconds, the driver put it in reverse, switched it into drive and went a little bit more quickly. Perhaps about 10 mph. Then stopped abruptly again.

There were a series of striped plastic barriers in front of the car, and each time the car backed up and went forward, it stopped suddenly about an inch from the barrier. Every time.

After watching the back-forth sequence for several runs, I finally asked what was happening. It was a demo of City Safety in the 2010 Volvo XC60.

City Safety is the newest safety innovation from Volvo utilizing an infrared laser sensor that determines if you are approaching a vehicle from behind too fast. If the driver fails to brake, the car will brake for the driver. The hope is to avoid the collision altogether, but if that isn’t possible, the system also activates interior restraints at the same time to protect the driver in case of a collision.

Nice in theory, but does it really work? Yes. I hopped behind the wheel of the demo car and tentatively drove toward the barriers, then stopped with a jerk without any input from my right foot. So, I tried again going a little faster. And stopped abruptly again.

This safety feature is for speeds around 10 mph because as Volvo points out, 75 percent of all collisions occur at speeds up to 18 mph, and half of these occur in city traffic.

What a brilliant idea. And it’s standard.

This feature alone is enough for me to issue a blanket statement encouraging you to check out this car. But when you add in the attractive design and functional yet comfortable interior, the 2010 XC60 becomes a must-test if you’re looking for a luxury crossover.

The XC60 comes equipped with a 3.0-liter, six-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers 281 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. For a crossover, this was more than enough power to make this car seem almost peppy for its size. Even though this is a small crossover, don’t let that fool you into thinking that means excellent fuel economy. We’re still talking about a six-cylinder engine and 4,174 pounds of vehicle. Thus, city/highway fuel economy rings in at 16/22 mpg.

The ride in the XC60 was more luxury than sporty. The steering, however, was tight, stiff and responsive, which is great for most driving situations. Until you parallel park. Then the steering is a bit too tight and stiff.

Volvo has a reputation for safety, and City Safety is just one of a multitude of features that are working to keep you and your family safe. Other standard safety features include dual stage airbags, inflatable side curtains, Whiplash Protection System, front side-impact airbags and Side Impact Protection System.

The Volvo XC60 is only offered as an all-wheel drive model, and it is very well-equipped without any options. Non-safety standard features include a six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission, leather seats, complimentary factory scheduled maintenance for the first three years, power front seats, Bluetooth, HD radio, USB interface, Sirius Satellite Radio and 18-inch wheels.

While you get a lot, you’re going to pay a pretty penny for it. Base price on the XC60 is $38,025, including destination. Luckily, you probably won’t need to add many options and could probably end there. The test vehicle added metallic paint ($525); navigation with rear park assist camera ($2,700); and the Climate Package including heated front and rear seats, heated windshield washer nozzles and high-pressure headlamp cleaning system ($1,000).

I often find that the shape of Volvos is a bit off-putting. Yet the XC60 smoothes out some of Volvo’s harsh edges, ending up with an almost curvaceous profile. The bumped out taillights, which can be a bit jarring on other models, actually work on this crossover.

The interior of the XC60 is sleek and simple, and the modern design is oddly calming. Everything is in the right place, and the control panel on the center stack is intuitive and well-organized. My favorite interior feature is the storage compartment behind the slim center stack, and I could easily store my small purse here when I had passengers.

As far as crossovers go, the XC60 had pretty much everything I could possibly want or need. As a base model it was well equipped, and I’d probably only add the Climate Package to get the heated front seats, which would keep the final price under $40K. This is a comfortable car that has plenty of storage and plenty of passenger room. Add that to plenty of safety, and you have a hands-down winner if the price tag is in your budget.

** Originally published in print in the Chicago Sun-Times on May 29.

Reaction to GM's Bankruptcy

So, my tweet this morning, which ended up on my facebook page, got some good response from my facebook friends. And I wanted to share in the hopes of getting more comments ... so, read and respond! Here's the stream ... names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Jill Ciminillo wonders how you feel about the fact that the government will have a 60 percent stake in GM after the bankruptcy.


Kermit the Frog at 8:19am June 1
I'm concerned that Government Motors is going to try and force unpopular small cars on a public that will not be willing to buy them.

I'm also worried about the death of any exciting vehicles. I have NO desire to drive joyless transportation pods.

The Cookie Monster at 8:25am June 1
I didn't realize GM had been putting forth any really exciting vehicles lately - or certainly not any that are actually on the showroom floor.

Big Bird at 9:15am June 1
No, GM doesn't have anything as exciting as Toyota! Corvettes are boring and with all that HP and only getting about 26mpg, highway. I'd rather have an EXCITING Camry. A Cadillac CTS-V, all 556 horses were SO BORING when I launched it to 60 in 3.9 seconds... (That's a sedan, a car with 4 doors) Again, I was dreaming of driving an Avalon! The new ... Read MoreCamaro SS was so boring, too. Especially launching it to 120mph at the track and only having to brake so I could stay on pavement. Honestly, I was left pining for a Solara... sigh

Big Bird at 9:45am June 1
And, Jill... don't like it but what can you do? I have an even bigger issue with the UAW having .1% of them.

Snuffaluffagus at 10:26am June 1
Will never buy another GM or Chrysler product. They have taken enough of my money already. Most of their cars are foreign made anyways. I will stick with my more American Toyota.

Miss Piggy at 10:46am June 1
I think it's sad. But the American people don't care about supporting our own economy, and this is what it comes down to. It trickles down to all the "Made in China" junk people buy as well instead of forking over a few extra bucks for something made in the U.S. I do like the new Camaro. I still miss my old one.

Big Bird at 11:39am June 1
I'm all for a free market. But buy based on facts, not untruths. It's a fact, GM's dealer network has created a lot of unsatisfied customers. I've seen the good and the bad over my lifetime. It's also a fact that they have plenty of good product in the showroom, TODAY. My bigger fear is, this Wal-Mart America we live in, looks an awful lot like Germany in the early 30's. Marching straight down a path to self-destruction. The difference being, our government can't bail us out of this one, too.