ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE RDX OFFERS SUPERB BALANCE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Acura RDX Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) Tech luxury SUV.

DOWN THE ROAD: Freshened for the year, the RDX retains its power train while receiving an exterior and interior overhaul. But you cannot expect anything less than ample power, plenty of passing ability and superb balance.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.3-liter turbocharged and inter-cooled inline-4 cylinder engine cranks out 240 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 260 pounds-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. Shift action from the 5-speed automatic transmission is light and crisp. An independent front MacPherson strut and a rear multilink suspension system are tuned firmly so the SUV remains stable at all types of tricky corners. Steering feedback is accurate, thanks to a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. Best of all, the SH-AWD distributes power not just between the front and rear wheels but also the left and right rear wheels.

LOOK & FEEL: The RDX shows off a traditional Acura grille but with new front and rear bumper fascias, revised xenon HID headlights and tail lamps, new rectangular exhaust tips, steeply raked windshield and fog lamps that are now mounted within separate side grilles. The cabin acquires some new standard amenities such as a rearview camera, electronic compass, auto function headlights and a huge center console storage tray for a wallet, spare keys or even an iPod. Fold the 60/40 rear seat down and you gain 60.6 cubic feet of space for luggage. Other goodies include a power tilt/sliding moon roof, dual-zone automatic climate control, dual-level center console, 10-way power driver and four-way front-passenger seat and a tilt/telescopic steering wheel.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, front active-head restraints, three-point seatbelts, side-impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system and day time running lights are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $37,620, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P235/55R18; wheelbase, 104.3 inches; length, 182.5 inches; weight, 3,942 pounds; fuel capacity, 18 gallons; city, 17 mpg; highway, 22 mpg; Web site, www.acura.com

WHY DIG IT: Its all-wheel-drive capabilities ensure safety for occupants of the SUV under inclement weather and road conditions. Plus, the RDX boasts excellent agility and grip, muscular styling and a functional cabin.

CADILLAC SRX MAKEOVER SHOULD WIN YOU OVER!

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

Move over, Lexus RX 350 and BMW X3. A redesigned 2010 Cadillac SRX that hardly bears any resemblance to its predecessor has arrived. Gone are the 3.6 and 4.6-liter engines, the V-8 power train and the third-row seat. Its reincarnation is 5 inches shorter in wheelbase and overall length.

Our test-drive vehicle was equipped with a 2.8-liter V-6 turbocharged engine blasting off 300 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 295 pounds-feet of torque at 1850. Power reaches the wheels via a crisp-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. Oh, and at our command was an all-wheel-drive system, which distributes torque from front to rear and also side to side in the rear. Working with the AWD is an independent four-wheel suspension system that includes a continuously variable real-time damping system to adjust shock damping rates for untoward road conditions or inclement weather. A hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering returns a linear response to the driver’s input. The SRX boasts surprisingly accelerative power, abundant passing ability despite being a 4,300-pound SUV and ever-more accurate handling and balance. An eco mode to enhance fuel savings is welcome.

Safety is paramount in the SRX with standard dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear parking assist, remote keyless entry, limited-slip differential, three-point safety belts for all, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

Thumbs up to the exterior styling, highlighted by a multi-piece mesh shield grille, vertical headlights and tail lamps, chrome front fender vent with a side marker lamp, and an integrated rear spoiler. The cabin is adorned in opulence and luxury as you would expect of a Caddy. The center stack houses climate and audio controls, while the navigation and audio systems pop out from the center of the instrument panel. Sapele Pommele wood accents on the three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel, doors and shifter knob boost the luxury-car feel and look. Power-adjustable pedals enable drivers of varying heights to get comfortable behind the seat. The recline option in the 60/40 rear seat should enable passengers to get cozy on long road trips. Also standard is an ultra view sunroof, power lift gate, tri-zone climate control, rearview camera for backup, heated and cooled front seats and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.

If you are prepared to forego a third-row seat in the luxury crossover segment, take a hard look at the SRX. The all-new power train, chassis and cabin makeover should win you over.

SRX TURBO AWD PREMIUM

Tires: P235/55R20

Wheelbase: 110.5 inches

Length: 190.3 inches

Weight: 4,307 pounds

Fuel capacity: 21 gallons

City: 15 mpg

Highway: 22 mpg

Base price: $51,360

Web site: www.cadillac.com

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE BOASTS OFF- AND ON-ROAD CAPABILITIES

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds for a Jeep? That’s right. The all-wheel-drive and high-performance 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is suitably quick and can also brake 60-0 in a mere 125 feet. Overall ride quality is refined and comfortable as is handling and steering.

A 6.1-liter V-8 Hemi engine cranks out 420 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 420 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. Getting power to the ground is a seamless 5-speed automatic transmission. A front SLA and coil springs and a rear live axle and link coil with track bar keeps the Jeep secure, regardless of road and weather conditions. Conveying a direct and communicative feel to the driver is a power rack-and-pinion steering. When you need to stop, 14.2-inch vented front and 13.8-inch rear discs equipped with four-piston Brembo calipers come into play.

The front fascia of the steel uni-frame structure sports a body-colored but massive grille and integrated brake ducts. Also noticeable is body side chrome molding, center cutouts for 4-inch exhaust tips and SRT-8 badge on the liftgate. That this is a race-inspired cabin is obvious from a carbon-fiber trimmed binnacle hosting 180 mph speedometer, tachometer and temperature gauges. Aluminum splashes on the center stack, shifter and door-switch bezels are tasteful. Eight-way power driver and four-way front-passenger leather seats with suede inserts, 4-spoke steering wheel and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat are standard.

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program, traction control, remote keyless entry, antiskid system with rollover sensors, three-point rear center seat belts and tire pressure monitoring system.

We believe that the base price of $43,325 is pretty steep but the Hemi engine does contribute to laudable off- and on-road capabilities. The redesigned 2011 Grand Cherokee, which already has debuted at dealerships, can only add to the trendy and soundly-built Jeep.

GRAND CHEROKEE SRT-8

Tires: 255/45-W20 run flat front; 285/40-W20 rear

Wheelbase: 109.5 inches

Length: 195.1 inches

Weight: 4,819 pounds

Fuel capacity: 20.5 gallons

City: 12 mpg

Highway: 16 mpg

Web site: www.jeep.com

HYUNDAI ELANTRA IS A PRETTY SOLID VALUE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Hyundai Elantra Blue sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: The all-new and entry-level Blue trim offers a decent and composed ride with precise handling and steering feel. The gas sipper keeps an eye out on fuel economy via an eco indicator in the instrument cluster.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.0-liter DOHC inline-4 cylinder engine puts out 138 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 136 pounds-feet of torque at 4600 rpm. Standard is a 5-speed manual gearbox, which provides smooth up shifts and quick downshifts. An independent front MacPherson strut with coil springs and a rear multilink system isolates occupants from road noise and bumps. Steering is fast and accurate, thanks to a power rack-and-pinion system. The 10.8-inch front ventilated and 10.3-inch solid rear disc brakes are sized just right for the compact car.

LOOK & FEEL: The waterfall grille and headlights bezels are decked appropriately in chrome. However, the door handles, mirrors and bumpers are painted in body color. The driver can adjust the seat six ways manually while holding on to a robust three-spoke tilt steering wheel. Not only does the 60/40 rear seat fold down to open up space but you also have a sizeable front center console and a bin under the climate controls. And the cabin ambience gives a cool aura, thanks to blue back lights on the instrument panel. Also standard are power windows and door locks, dual front cup holders, digital clock, tinted glass and remote keyless entry.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes, active front head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners, front/rear crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $14,145, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P195/65R15; wheelbase, 104.3 inches; length, 177.4 inches; weight, 2,723 pounds; fuel capacity, 14 gallons; city, 26 mpg; highway, 35 mpg; Web site, www.hyundai.com

WHY DIG IT: Exceptional fuel economy, for one. We averaged 26 mpg in city/highway driving. And at under $14,200, it’s a pretty solid value. If you need any more assurance, Hyundai’s five-year, 60,000-mile basic, and 10-year, 100,000-mile power train warranties should suffice to seal the deal.

DIESEL-SIPPER GOLF IS A LOT OF CAR FOR THE MONEY

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Two-door, five-passenger 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI coupe.

DOWN THE ROAD: VW couldn’t have found a more appropriate replacement for the phased-out Rabbit. The sprightly and stylish Golf gets up to speed with urgency, and slows just down as quickly and with self-assurance.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Power comes from an adequate 2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine. Mated to a slick 6-speed manual transmission, it doles out 140 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 236 pounds-feet of torque at 1750 rpm. Not that it matters but the compact coupe can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds. The fully independent front and rear suspension is sport tuned, so the drive can be fun and tossable. The electro-mechanical power steering offers an unwavering on-center feel.

LOOK & FEEL: Up front, a double-bar grille hosting the VW emblem is flanked by angled halogen headlights and crystalline overall fog lamps. Brushed metal accents on the door panels and dashboard are evident as you take a seat behind the three-spoke leather steering wheel. A handy driver information center with outside temperature, compass, digital clock and trip computer is sandwiched between chrome-surrounded black analog gauges for tachometer and speedometer. The eight-way manual front seats, along with a height adjustable, telescopic steering column, should enable everyone to find an ideal driving position.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, three-point safety belts for all, height-adjustable front seat belts, stability and traction control, latch child restraint system, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $21,990, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 225/45/R17 all season; wheelbase, 101.5 inches; length, 165.4 inches; weight, 2,968 pounds; fuel capacity, 14.5 gallons; city, 30 mpg; highway, 41 mpg; Web site, www.vw.com

WHY DIG IT: Starting at right under $22,000, this is a lot of car for the money. The peppy car can eke out an average of 38 mpg. That should be plenty of fuel (diesel in this case) to drive 500 miles without having to fill ’er up!

HYUNDAI SONATA: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2011?

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com        

Close on the heels of the redesigned Tucson comes the all-new 2011 Sonata. Hyundai will spend $160 million on launch of the sixth-generation car, which is 130 pounds lighter than its predecessor.

The 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder and 3.3-liter inline-6 cylinder engines are replaced by 2.4-liter Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) 4-cylinder engines, which put out 198 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 200 hp at 6300 rpm respectively. The 5-speed is replaced with a 6-speed auto transmission, which is 26 pounds lighter. However, the midsize car will continue to be offered in three trims: GLS, SE and Limited. And the base model starts at just under $20,000.

Step into the cabin and you will find a push-button start, a first in SE and Limited models. But the base GLS Sonata still is equipped with air-conditioning, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 60/40-split fold rear seat, driver information center, outside temperature display, steering wheel audio controls and multi-adjustable front seats.

Standard safety features are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front/rear crumple zones, front seatbelt pretensioners and tire pressure monitoring system.

In 2009, 120,028 Sonatas were sold in the United States. The all-new power train, exterior and interior overhaul, and affordable pricing, will only boost those numbers. Its competitors Camry, Fusion, Altima, Accord and Malibu have plenty of reasons to worry as more redesigned 2011 Sonatas hit the roads.

SONATA (GLS)

Tires: P205/65R16

Wheelbase: 110 inches

Length: 189.8 inches

Weight: 3,161 pounds

Suspension: MacPherson strut front; independent multilink rear

Steering: Rack and pinion

Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons

City: 24 mpg

Highway: 35 mpg

Web site: www.hyundai.com

PORSCHE PANAMERA WILL BLOW YOUR MIND!

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

When the Panamera debuted at Auto Shanghai in 2009, there was quite a bit of apprehension. And understandably so. A four-door, four-passenger Porsche car? How would a sports car maker with a racing background pull off such a feat? Well, the German auto company has proved the skeptics wrong.

Don’t be fooled by the Panamera’s nearly 4,000-pound weight. Step on the throttle in the front-mounted, water-cooled 4.8-liter V-8 engine and you will experience the rush of 400 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 369 pounds-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. Available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the performance car boasts 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds. The PDK Porsche double-clutch 7-speed transmission is basically two clutches without a clutch pedal but can work either automatically, via steering-wheel mounted paddles or a center-mounted lever. The result is a flawless transmission with instantaneous up and down shifts. The car also is equipped with an engine start/stop system, which turns the engine off at a halt so you can eke out fuel savings.

Porsche Active Suspension Management adjusts the suspension system so a fine balance of ride and handling can be maintained, regardless of driving styles. And then there is the Porsche Stability Management, which works in tandem with antilock brakes, to maintain stability and traction in shifty road or weather conditions. Also, keeping the driver and passengers out of harm’s way are standard dual front and side airbags, curtain side airbag, front knee airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, rear-obstacle detection system, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights. Braking is handled adeptly by 14.2-inch front and 13-inch rear vented rotors. The 18-inch forged alloy wheels come shod with 245/50 ZR up front and 275/45 ZR at the rear.

Step up to the Panamera and you will notice that the traditional grille is missing. Instead, the car sports a Porsche insignia with a low-air intake and bi-xenon headlights. LED tail lamps, dual exhaust tips made up of brushed stainless steel and an adaptive spoiler deck up the rear.

 

The interior drips of class, sophistication and splendid craftsmanship that are a Porsche tradition. Lending credence to the rich ambiance the cabin is full leather upholstery on and around the dashboard and instrument panel, on the doors, center console. Gauges on the five-dial instrument cluster are large and clear and so are the controls on the dashboard.

What drew our attention was the vast rear-seat passenger space of 38.2 inches of head, 51.7 inches of shoulder and 33.3 inches of leg room. With the seats down, you can pack in 44.6 cubic feet of space. Six-footers with broad shoulders can sit contentedly in the back with their legs stretched.

Also standard are a three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering column, heated eight-way power front seats, driver information center, power sunroof, navigation system and of course the distinctive left-hand ignition.

Porsche claims the Panamera is a sports car for four. And it indisputably is, not just because of stupendous performance – which is the carmaker’s forte – but also for offering a cavernous cabin. If you can spare $90,000 and change, the Panamera will blow your mind, as it did ours!

PANAMERA

Wheelbase: 114.9 inches

Length: 195.6 inches

Steering: Servotric speed-sensitive power

Weight: 3,968 pounds

Fuel capacity: 26.4 gallons

City: 16 mpg

Highway: 24 mpg

Web site: www.porsche.com

ALL-NEW QX56 OFFERS A POWERFUL, POISED RIDE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

Coming to a dealership near you in late July is the second-generation 2011 Infiniti QX56. The full-size luxury SUV shares its all-new 5.6-liter, V-8 engine with the redesigned M sedan. It features Variable Valve Event & Lift and Direct Injection Gas systems for enhanced fuel efficiency, better performance and response.

The QX56 blasts off 400 horsepower (80 more than its predecessor) at 5800 rpm and 413 pounds (20 more) of torque. Getting power to the ground is an all-new 7-speed automatic transmission, which replaces a laggard 5 speed.

Though still offered as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the 2011 QX is 3 inches lower, 2.1 inches shorter in wheelbase, 1.4 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider than the previous model. And the all-wheel-drive model weighs 161 pounds less than the 2010 vehicle. Tow capacity is abundant at 8,500 pounds to draw a trailer or boat.

Sitting on the body-on-frame structure is a prominent double-arch grille, swept-back xenon headlights, wave-like hood, functional driver’s side air vents and LED tail lamps. The interior is welcoming with plenty of opulence and style, such as standard heated front seats, 10-way power driver and eight-way front-passenger seats, a second-row Captain’s chairs with tip-up easy entry to third row, 13-speaker Bose audio system, tri-zone climate control, AroundView monitor with front and rear sonar capabilities and navigation system. Rear passengers are treated to ample headroom and luxury-liner legroom. And hold your breath: there are nine cup and four bottle holders!

Say goodbye to children in the rear seats squabbling over their movie of choice during long trips. The sole overhead DVD screen has been replaced with dual 7-inch monitors in front seatbacks.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control with traction control, front seat belt pretensioners and active head restraints, front/rear crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column, knee bolsters and an all-new tire pressure monitoring system, which sounds the horn when you reach filling in the appropriate pressure, are standard.

QX is a high-tech marvel with the optional Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention systems actively keeping track of the driver’s path. A Blind Spot Warning system illuminates a light if another vehicle is detected in a blind spot area.

An all-new engine, transmission and chassis results in an even more powerful and poised ride. With an unchanged $56,700 base price, the QX is a superb combination of performance and style that should appeal to potential full-size luxury SUV buyers.

QX56

Tires: P275/60R20

Wheelbase: 121.1 inches

Length: 208.3 inches

Suspension: double wishbone

Steering: Rack and pinion

Weight: 5,590 pounds (2WD)

Fuel capacity: 26 gallons

City: 14 mpg

Highway: 20 mpg

Web site: www.infiniti.com

HYUNDAI TUCSON: WHAT’S NEW FOR 2010?

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

The Hyundai transformation has barely begun and the first example of the Korean carmaker’s major change can be found in the all-new 2010 compact Tucson. The previous 140 horsepower inline-4 cylinder and the 173 hp V-6 engines are history and replaced by a sole 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder engine, which develops 176 hp at 6000 rpm and 168 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. Also new is a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The SUV is 3 inches longer, 1 inch wider and nearly 60 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Trims are down to GLS and Limited (from three) with front-wheel and all-wheel-drives offered on both.

Standard for 2010 is Hillstart Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control and Hyundai folks insist neither is available in its competitors such as Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue. An eco indicator to show fuel use is a new standard feature.

Designed at the carmaker’s Frankfurt Design Studio, the Tucson gets a Hyundai first: panoramic sun roof, which stretches the length of the roof. Making a debut in the SUV are two new options: navigation system and rearview camera.

The Tucson sports a hexagonal grille and lower air intake, flanked by swept-back headlights. High-mounted and wraparound tail lamps round up a sharp-looking body.

The interior of the base GLS continues to offer an array of standard conveniences such as air-conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cloth seats, center console, split-folding rear seat, power mirrors, windows and door locks, and driver information center. Passenger volume is an incredible 101.9 cubic feet.

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, traction control, active front head restraints, front seat belt pretensioners and crumple zones.

Starting at just $18,995, the Tucson is a heck of a deal. The all-new 2.4-liter power train is more than adequate to get the job done. It makes for a quiet and responsive ride with sharp handling and good overall cornering balance. And Hyundai’s five-year, 60,000-mile basic, and 10-year, 100,000-mile power train warranties should convince you to sign on the dotted line without a blink of an eye.

HYUNDAI TUCSON GLS

Tires: P225/60HR17

Wheelbase: 103.9 inches

Length: 173.2 inches

Suspension: Independent MacPerson strut front; independent multilink rear

Steering: Power rack-and-pinion steering

Weight: 3,179 pounds (FWD)

Base price: $18,995 (MT)

Web site: www.hyundai.com

DODGE CHALLENGER TOUTS AGGRESSIVE HANDLING

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Two-door, five-passenger 2010 Dodge Challenger sports coupe.

DOWN THE ROAD: A carryover from 2009, our test-drive SE model lacked the potent Hemi power train. But that didn’t hinder the iconic muscle car from tackling sharp corners and quick turns with liveliness and confidence.  

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 3.5-liter V-6 engine doles out 250 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 250 pounds-feet of torque at 3800 rpm. The rear-wheel-drive car is mated to a smooth five-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capabilities. A multilink short- and long-arm front and five-link independent rear suspension handles rough surfaces with minimum sacrifice to the back side. A rack-and-pinion steering system with hydraulic power assist is alert, resulting in a nicely damped ride. Thanks to robust 12.6-inch vented solid discs, the Challenger remains stable under heavy braking.

LOOK & FEEL: Ensconced on the unitized steel body is a satin chromed grille flanked by round halogen headlights, dual scoops on the hood with black stripes and a steel exhaust tip. The well laid-out cabin draws inspiration from the car’s racing heritage with a pistol-grip shifter and an instrument panel of red needles on black numerals with a white background. There is plenty of leg and head room inside for five passengers. Ingress and egress to the 60/40 rear seat is straightforward. A four-spoke tilt/telescopic steering column, eight-way power driver’s seat, fore and aft sliding center console are standard.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Program, traction control, three-point driver and front-passenger seatbelt pretensioners and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $31,175, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P215/65R17 all season; wheelbase, 116 inches; length, 197.7 inches; weight, 3,720 pounds; fuel capacity, 18.5 gallons; city, 17 mpg; highway, 25 mpg; Web site, www.dodge.com

WHY DIG IT: With sufficient power just a throttle away, the muscular-styled Challenger displays aggressive handling and balance. If you are up for a ‘Challenge,’ then this overlooked performance car should be sitting in your driveway.

HONDA CROSSTOUR AN ALL-PURPOSE VEHICLE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Honda Crosstour EX-L NAV crossover utility vehicle (CUV).

DOWN THE ROAD: All new for 2010, the Accord’s been cross utilized, as in transformed into a CUV. The power train delivers smooth and linear acceleration, resulting in secure handling and incredible response.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 3.5-liter V-6 engine puts out 271 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 254 pounds-feet of torque at 5000 rpm. Vehicle cylinder management enables two or three cylinders to deactivate so gasoline can be conserved in certain driving situations. It is mated to a flawless 5-speed automatic transmission. A front double wishbone and an independent multilink rear suspension soak road imperfections with dexterity, poise and sure-footedness. The power-assisted, rack-and-pinion steering is quick, accurate and perfectly weighted.

LOOK & FEEL: The hatchback version of the Accord sedan conveys a sleek, bold and athletic stance with a sloped roofline and tailgate. Wide halogen projector-beam headlights flank a six-point chrome grille. The Crosstour may have all the conveniences of an upgraded Accord such as dual-zone automatic climate control, wood trim, three-spoke leather steering wheel, power moon roof and 10-way power driver and four-way front-passenger seats. But the ride offers a lot more storage space. For instance, a utility box in the under-floor cargo area is as deep as 8.4 inches and offers 1.9 cubic feet of room. Along side are two smaller storage trays. The 60/40-rear split can be folded flat to open up 51.3 cubic feet of space. Crossover enthusiasts will appreciate the three 12-volt power outlets, coin box, cargo cover and a spacious center console.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts, side impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

OUT THE DOOR: $34,770, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 225/60R18; wheelbase, 110.1 inches; length, 196.8 inches; weight, 3,887 pounds; fuel capacity, 18.5 gallons; city, 18 mpg; highway, 27 mpg; Web site, www.honda.com

WHY DIG IT: The Accord sedan may meet most buyers’ needs. But if the focus shifts to an all-purpose vehicle, the Crosstour makes more sense. And of course, the Japanese carmaker’s reputation for reliability and durability should lure interested folks to test drive one.

2010 CORVETTE GRAND SPORT PACKS PLENTY OF PUNCH

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

It may not have the ferocious power of a Z06 or a ZR1 but the all-new Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport convertible is a blast to drive. Based on the Corvette’s LS3 power train, the GS returns to the stable (after 1996) with wider front/rear bumpers and track, Z06-style front splitter and Z06-size brakes. The result is a beast that delivers a firm but well-damped ride with praiseworthy cornering prowess, admirable handling and balance, and confidence-inspiring brakes.

Step on the gas and the Grand Sport will catch you off guard, as it lunges forward with a fervor you wouldn’t find in most sport cars. It’s quick on its feet, reaching 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4 seconds.

Under the hood resides a 6.2-liter V-8 engine, which pumps out 436 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 428 pounds-feet of torque at 4600 rpm. The power train is mated to a standard 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission. The rear-wheel-drive car is equipped with a rock-solid independent short/long arm double wishbone suspension. Steering feedback is rapid and accurate, thanks to a variable ratio rack-and-pinion system. Braking duties are handled competently by 14-inch front (with 6 calipers) and 13.4-inch rear (with 4 calipers) cross-drilled rotors.

Staring in your face is the traditional crossed-flag badge surrounded by xenon HID headlights. The cabin screams Corvette with the iconic emblem etched on the seat backrests and the three-spoke tilt steering wheel. A six-way power driver’s leather seat, auto dual air-conditioning and two covered cup holders in front console are standard. And yes, there is storage space not just behind the seats but also two under-floor bins in the trunk. A compass in the rearview mirror will be useful during long trips. The hardtop can be folded manually with ease. Go for the 4LT premium equipment group ($9,700) if you cherish a custom leather-wrapped interior, 7-speaker Bose system, XM radio, head-up display, power convertible top and telescoping steering wheel, heated seats, and memory package, among other cool goodies.

This being a performance-oriented car that packs incredible power, Chevrolet has ensured safety is paramount with such standard features as dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, limited slip differential, Active Handling, keyless access with push button start, daytime running lights and run-flat tires.

The GS packs plenty of punch, displaying amazing nimbleness and grip as you pitch it through corners and turns. It is one race car you should feel comfortable cruising down on your street or heading for the highway. And, of course, you always have the option of taking the speed demon to the racetrack for an even more entertaining ride.

CORVETTE GS

Tires: P245/40ZR18 front; P285/35ZR19 rear

Wheelbase: 105.7 inches

Length: 174.6 inches

Weight: 3,289 pounds

Fuel capacity: 18 gallons

City: 15 mpg

Highway: 25 mpg

Base price: $58,580

Web site: www.corvette.com

2010 RAM 2500 TOUTS A SOLID CHASSIS, THOUGHT-OUT INTERIOR

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

Meet the 2010 Motor Trend Truck of the Year – Dodge Ram Heavy Duty truck, more specifically the Laramie Crew Cab that we test drove. Available for the first time as a Crew Cab, this 2500 is big, powerful, rugged and intimidating as you would expect of any Ram. The truck moves swiftly and quietly down the road while boasting a first-rate ride and sharp handling.

Our vehicle came with the optional 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel six-cylinder engine (priced at $7,615). It cranks out 350 horsepower at 3000 rpm and 650 pounds-feet of torque at 1500 rpm while mated to a crisp-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. To make its heavy-duty responsibilities less cumbersome, the pickup is equipped with a front coil-spring setup and a rear multi-leaf spring suspension. Steering is handled by a re-circulating ball, which is razor sharp, with an unyielding on-center feel.

As you approach the huge truck, a large grille with chrome surround and center billets conveys a menacing appearance. While accommodating an 8-foot box, the 2500 offers a locking tailgate and a 9,600-pound tow capacity, enough to take along your sailboat for heading out to the open waters. You couldn’t ask for any more room in the cabin with a 40/20/40 front bench and 60/40-split fold rear seat. Wood trim on the doors and dashboard looks tasteful as you sit in the driver’s seat staring at the simple but clearly visible six-ring instrument panel. Needless to say, it’s in the space department that the Ram shines with a huge storage bin under the front center seat, a center console that can consume a laptop and a lower case for hanging files, second-row in-floor storage container and two in-floor bins in rear foot wells. Head, knee and leg room is aplenty for passengers up to 6 feet or more. Standard amenities include dual-zone automatic climate control, rear power sliding window, and spacious 10-way power driver and 6-way front-passenger seats.

Among the standard safety features are front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes, remote keyless entry, rear park assist, theft deterrent system, electric shift-on-the-fly transfer case and a tire pressure monitoring system.

We absolutely dig the quiet and clean turbo diesel power train. The Ram 2500 offers a solid chassis, a thought-out cabin with gobs of cargo room, and an incredible towing capacity that should give most of the competition a run for the money. One thing is for certain: the folks over at Motor Trend definitely know their trucks!

RAM 2500 LARAMIE CREW CAB

Tires: LT265/70R17 all season

Wheelbase: 168.9 inches

Length: 259.4 inches

Weight: 6,915 pounds

Fuel capacity: 35 gallons

City: 15 mpg

Highway: 20 mpg

Base price: $42,650

Web site: www.dodge.com

FIT BOASTS LIVELY, FUN-TO-DRIVE HANDLING

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Honda Fit Sport subcompact car.

DOWN THE ROAD: Redesigned in 2009, the unit-body-based Fit offers a smooth and comfortable ride though the 1.5-liter engine could use a slight boost in power. But the small car responds with agility in most driving situations. 

TECH & PERFORMANCE: An inline-4 cylinder engine develops 117 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 106 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. It is mated to a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission. Suspension is handled adequately via a front MacPherson strut and a rear torsion beam. The electric power steering system is swift and accurate. Stopping abilities are taken care of by 10.3-inch ventilated front and 7.9-inch rear drum discs.

LOOK & FEEL: Flanking the honeycomb grille are large multi-reflector halogen headlights. The front quarter windows make visibility easy for the driver. Step into the cabin and the back-lit blue gauges for tachometer and speedometer will leave you quite impressed. Offering a firm feel is the three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel. The 60/40 rear seat, which folds flat into the door with the flip of a lever, opens up 57.3 cubic feet of space. It’s truly in the storage department that the Fit shines – 10 cup holders, front door pocket bins, dual glove box, passenger side seatback pocket and an under-seat tray.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution, front active head restraints, front/rear crumple zones, three-point seat belts, side impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

OUT THE DOOR: $17,260, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P185/55R16 all season; wheelbase, 98.4 inches; length, 161.6 inches; weight, 2,489 pounds; fuel capacity, 10.6 gallons; city, 27 mpg; highway, 33 mpg; Web site, www.honda.com

WHY DIG IT: The Fit boasts lively and fun-to-drive handling, cheeky styling and a well-designed cabin. And with gas prices once again hovering around $3 a gallon, the affordable subcompact car makes perfect sense.

STYLISH HONDA COUPE AN EXCELLENT PERFORMER

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

A carryover from last year, the 2010 Honda Accord coupe offers a supple ride with snappy acceleration, first-rate steering and body control. It navigates sharp turns and corners with confidence.

The 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder engine doles out 190 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 162 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. It is mated to a precise and easy-to-engage 5-speed automatic transmission. A front double wishbone and a rear multilink suspension isolate occupants from road noise and bumps to maintain balance. Providing admirable on-center feel and feedback is the variable gear ratio and assist rack-and-pinion steering. The 11.8-inch ventilated front and 11.1-inch solid rear disc brakes offer a firm pedal experience.

There can be no doubt about it – this is one polished vehicle, thanks to a rakish roofline, long hood and wedge-shaped rear windows. A centered ‘H’ in the six-point chrome-packed grille is surrounded by projector-beam headlights. Props to Honda for its interior packaging except for a plethora of individual control buttons (Engineers, are you listening?) Otherwise, the red-on-white needles on the instrument panel amid the blue ambient background will grab your attention. The 270-watt Honda audio system with seven speakers is a hoot. Standard amenities include dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power driver’s seat, power moon roof, tilt/telescopic steering column and heated fronts.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, active front head restraints, three-point seat belts, side impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

On the outside, we may appreciate the coupe for its athletic and stylish look. But this Accord also exhibits superb performance, respectable gas mileage and generous cargo capacity.

ACCORD COUPE EX-L

Tires: P225/50R17

Wheelbase: 107.9 inches

Length: 190.9 inches

Weight: 3,221 pounds

Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons

City: 21 mpg

Highway: 31 mpg

Base price: $28,880

Web site: www.honda.com

LINCOLN MKS GETS ALL-NEW ECOBOOST FROM FORD

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

EcoBoost. You will be hearing more about this all-new V-6 direct-injection, twin-turbocharged engine produced by Ford for some present and future vehicles. Like the 2010 Lincoln MKS luxury sedan, which cranks out 355 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 350 pounds-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. The 3.5-liter DOHC engine is mated to a seamless 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

EcoBoost is essentially twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine working in tandem with gasoline direct injection to produce a powerful but fuel-efficient engine.

Though a carryover from 2009 and sharing its basic design with the Ford Taurus, our flagship test sedan came with all-wheel drive, which distributes torque efficiently between the front and rear wheels. Ensconced on a unitized steel body structure is a MacPherson strut suspension in front and an independent rear multilink system. An electric power steering uses power from an electric motor only when needed, unlike a normal hydraulic system, which constantly pulls power from the engine. This ensures fuel savings and a remarkable steering response.

The now familiar-faced massive grille with the centered Lincoln emblem and adaptive HID headlights greets onlookers. The rear shows off the car division’s insignia amid a chrome-slathered bar and dual exhaust. The 19-inch painted aluminum wheels carry plenty of stick.

Lincoln has always been associated with opulence and, in this respect, the MKS leaves up to its reputation. The push-button start is a convenient feature. As temperatures inch up, the standard rear window power sunshade will come in handy. Sprinkles of wood on the dashboard and the power tilt/telescopic steering column add classiness. We liked the aura in the cabin as soon as the ambient lights came on. Apart from 12-way power heated and cooled front seats, the MKS gets is equipped with standard heated rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, hands-free Sync voice-activated system and a cap less fuel-filler system. And the trunk can gobble up 18.7 cubic feet of space.

Safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control, traction control, seatbelt pretensioners, antiskid system and front/rear obstacle detection system.

Despite the EcoBoost system, the MKS may be unable to attract buyers. Its $50,000-plus price tag seems too hefty. Also, the ride isn’t as quick and nimble as one would expect of a luxury car. However, passengers can sit, relax and enjoy the ride in style.

LINCOLN MKS

Tires: P255/45R19 all season

Wheelbase: 112.9 inches

Length: 204.1 inches

Weight: 4,276 pounds

Fuel capacity: 19 gallons

City: 17 mpg

Highway: 25 mpg

Base price: $47,760

Web site: www.lincoln.com

ENJOY TOP-DOWN MOTORING IN NISSAN 370Z

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Two-door, two-passenger 2010 Nissan 370Z Touring edition convertible.

DOWN THE ROAD: Anyone up for a power-at-all-times ride? Press the push-button start and a familiar growl emanates from the engine, reminding the driver that indeed this is the iconic Z. Punch it and the car responds with vigor and swiftness. And the power soft top comes down in a mere 20 seconds.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: The rear-wheel-drive roadster gets a boost of 26 hp and 2 pounds-feet of torque this year. The 3.7-liter DOHC V-6 engine now pumps out 332 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 270 pounds-feet of torque at 5200 rpm. The 6-speed manual transmission is accurate and effortless to engage. Handling bumpy surfaces is a laudable front double wishbone aluminum suspension and a rear independent multilink system. The power rack-and-pinion steering conveys an unswerving and communicative feel. Brake feel is splendid, thanks to 12.6-inch vented disc rotors.

LOOK & FEEL: That it is Nissan’s renowned car is evident from the boomerang-like xenon headlights and tail lamps, vertical door handles, and more important, fender-mounted Z emblem and side markers. The hood, doors, trunk lid and pedals are made of aluminum, which helps reduce the vehicle’s weight. The interior is roomy and user-friendly with the familiar three-bay gauge pods for oil temperature, volt and digital clock atop the dashboard. The cushy leather seats can be heated as well as cooled. Other standard features include automatic climate control, four-way power seats, Bose sound system with a 6-CD player and three cup holders.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and brake assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control, three-point seatbelts, front active head restraints, front/rear crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $40,520, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P225/50WR18 front; P245/45WR18 rear; wheelbase, 100.4 inches; length, 167.2 inches; weight, 3,497 pounds; fuel capacity, 19 gallons; city, 18 mpg; highway, 25 mpg; Web site, www.nissanusa.com

WHY DIG IT: The energetic and fun-to-drive roadster is top-down motoring at its finest. Z enthusiasts should be celebrating with glee as they take the wheel behind this redesigned ride.

DRIVING A $2.1 MILLION DREAM: BUGATTI VEYRON 16.4 GRAND SPORT

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

The tech specs for the 2010 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport should give you a clear idea why it stands at the pinnacle of the automotive world:

* 8.0-liter quad-turbo 64-valve DOHC W16-cylinder mid-mounted engine;

* 1001 horsepower at 6000 rpm;

* 922 pounds-feet of torque at 2200 rpm;

* 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission;

* all-wheel drive;

* 0 to 62 mph in 2.7 seconds; 0 to 125 mph in 7.3 seconds; 0 to 188 mph in 16.7 seconds;

* 253 mph top speed;

* weight, 4,339 pounds;

* base price, $1.8 million … add tax, tag, delivery and destination and the bill is a whopping $2.1 million.

You get the picture. Needless to say, it was a test drive to remember.

The Veyron is the fastest, most expensive droptop on the market. If you want to buy one, you’ll have to make up your mind quickly: Only 150 of the high-performance sports car will be built. Or just 75 if that’s how many are sold. No cutoff date has been set for sales of the car.

The Bugatti folks tell me that 10 of the 30 customer cars sold have been delivered, two to the United States. They expect sales to be divided equally between the United States, Europe and Middle East. What’s most surprising is that most buyers are independent businessmen. Celebrities appear to be giving the super sports car a pass. “We can etch the buyer’s name in illumination on the sill plates,” the Bugatti reps say. Are you listening, Shaq O’ Neal and company?

An Italian by birth, Ettore Bugatti established car production facilities in 1909 in France, where the Veyron is built. During its heyday in the 1920s and ‘30s, the automobile company produced vehicles that were unparalled in design, engineering and speed, winning several victories at Le Mans. But World War II and the death of Ettore’s son Jean began the decline of the Bugatti brand. Volkswagen, which bought the marquee in 1998, is looking for a revival.

Approaching the car is like walking up to a fine piece of sculpture. The traditional horseshoe-shaped Bugatti grille is flanked by massive horizontal LED headlights. It’s more than 2-ton weight is elegantly concealed by sinuous curves and glossy Arctic white paint that seems inches deep.

Slipping into the all-leather-quilted cabin gives a thrill, as if you’re suddenly a billionaire captain of industry. We were amazed at how the dashboard and instrument panel present themselves in a clear-cut yet graceful manner. The $30,000 Puccini sound system (that’s how much our Acura cost!) is out of this world. Also standard are a navigation system that can be programmed through a PDA, an iPod adapter, analog clock and rearview video camera. But if the potential buyer likes to have a hot java in the car, that’s not an option. There are no cup holders!

You just can’t miss the massive twin alloy air intakes with the carbon-fiber rollover beam on the rear deck, right behind the seats.

Lightweight carbon fiber, aluminum, titanium and magnesium abound in the Bugatti’s construction. Hey, what about wood? “It’s more of a traditional luxury material, not suitable for a high-tech performance car,” the Bugatti folks say without batting an eye.

INFINITI FX50 A BLEND OF COMFORT, PERFORMANCE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Infiniti FX50 AWD crossover luxury SUV.

DOWN THE ROAD: Built on a monocoque steel body, the second-generation FX is a carryover from last year. It delivers strong acceleration, notable handling and steering feel. Ensuring splendid balance is the all-wheel-drive system.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 5.0-liter V-8 engine cranks out 390 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 369 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. It is mated to a crisp-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission. An independent front aluminum double wishbone and a rear steel multilink suspension system work well to absorb rough road surfaces. The power-assist rack-and-pinion steering returns a weighted, linear response to the driver’s input. Robust 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotor discs maintain stability under heavy braking.

LOOK & FEEL: A double-wave hood meets up with a dark tinted chrome grille, which is flanked by xenon HID projector headlights. The exterior is further decked up with side air vents behind the front wheels, aluminum roof rails, dual exhausts with chrome tailpipe finishers and integrated roof spoiler and fog lamps. The driver and front-passenger are coddled by eight-way power, quilted leather seats. Enhancing the rich ambiance is maple wood on doors and center console. Audiophiles will love the sound emanating from the 300-watt, 11-speaker system. Also standard are a three-spoke power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, dual zone automatic climate control, magnesium paddle shifters and an Around View Monitor.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Electronic Stability Control, traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, front seat active head restraints, front and rear crumple zones, and front three-point safety belts with pretensioners.

OUT THE DOOR: $58,400, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 265/45R21 all season; wheelbase, 113.6 inches; length, 191.3 inches; weight, 4,156 pounds; fuel capacity, 23.8 gallons; city, 14 mpg; highway, 20 mpg; Web site, www.infinitiusa.com

WHY DIG IT: The FX50 offers not just SUV utility but also an exceptional gearbox, first-rate interior and pleasing styling. It is a perfect blend of comfort and performance.

ALTIMA COUPE IS SPORTY, FUN-TO-DRIVE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

The 2010 Nissan Altima midsize coupe gets a freshening, of sorts. First, the 3.5 SR model replaces the 3.5 SE trim. The coupe is 4 inches shorter in wheelbase, 9.8 inches shorter overall in length and 2.1 inches lower in overall height than the sedan. Regardless, the ride is comfortable, remarkably well-composed as the vehicle accelerates briskly toward its destination.  

Power for the front-wheel-drive car is derived from a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. It doles out 270 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm and is mated to an easy-to-engage and accurate 6-speed manual transmission. The power rack-and-pinion steering is accurate and swift. Suspension is handled via an independent front strut and a rear multilink system, which isolates occupants from road noise.

Sitting on a unibody structure, the coupe’s hood and grille have been revised while acquiring new projector-beam headlights. Body-colored mirrors, door handles and front/rear splash guards convey attractive styling.  

Get behind the wheel and you will be ensconced in new and classy red leather seats, something you would find only in high-end cars. Up front, the seats are heated while the driver gets a standard six-way power adjustable seat. The rear 60/40-split seat can be folded flat for storing cargo. The telescopic four-spoke leather steering wheel can tilt too.

Storage bins, some particularly spacious, are scattered throughout the cabin. The addition of covered cup holders in the front center console won’t go unnoticed either. A compass in the rearview mirror, push start button, power moon roof and dual-zone automatic climate control is standard.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control, antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, front seat active-head restraints and seatbelts with pretensioners, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system are standard safety features.

The agile Altima coupe touts decent performance, commendable gas mileage and a thought-out cabin. It’s worth a look if you are considering a sporty, fun-to-drive and enjoyable coupe.

ALTIMA SR COUPE

Tires: P235/45R18 all season

Wheelbase: 105.3 inches

Length: 180.9 inches

Weight: 3,294 pounds

Fuel capacity: 20 gallons

City: 18 mpg

Highway: 27 mpg

Base price: $29,600

Web site: www.nissanusa.com

MAZDASPEED3 OFFERS POWER, AGILITY, PRACTICALITY

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Mazdaspeed3 s front-wheel-drive hatchback.

DOWN THE ROAD: Restyled for this year, the pocket rocket boasts a swift ride that will keep you at the edge of your seat. Punch it and the Mazdaspeed3 displays amazing nimbleness and grip with superb handling/balance and more than ample passing ability.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.3-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder turbocharged and intercooled engine cranks out 263 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 pounds-feet of torque at 3000 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which provides light and crisp shifts. Suspension up front is handled by a MacPherson strut and the rear takes an independent E-type multilink system. Both ends use coil springs and stabilizer bars to soak up uneven surfaces with dexterity and sure-footedness. The electro-hydraulic power-assist, rack-and-pinion steering is quick and accurate. For a small car, the Mazdaspeed3 sure gets ample brakes with instantly responsive 12.6-inch ventilated front and 11-inch rear solid discs.

LOOK & FEEL: A noticeable hood scoop meets up with the traditional five-point metallic black grille, which is surrounded by clear-lens halogen headlights and round fog lamps. The rear boasts an aggressive stance with a roof-mounted wing spoiler and larger dual exhausts with bright tips. New in the well laid-out cabin is a race-car inspired LED turbo boost between the instrument cluster meters. The red stitches on the black steering wheel, seats, door trim, shifter lever boot and center armrest convey classiness. Also standard are driver information center, three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat and height-adjustable driver’s seat.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and brake assist, Dynamic Stability Control, traction control, active front headrests, collapsible steering column, five-passenger three-point safety belts, anti-theft engine immobilizer and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $23,195, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P225/40R18 high performance; wheelbase, 103.9 inches; length, 177.6 inches; weight, 3,245 pounds; fuel capacity, 15.9 gallons; city, 18 mpg; highway, 25 mpg; Web site, www.mazdausa.com

WHY DIG IT: The Mazdaspeed3 is a wonderful blend of power, agility and practicality. This level of performance and style is unbeatable for the money.

LANCER SPORTBACK IS FOR PERFORMANCE-ORIENTED DRIVERS

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

Performance-oriented enthusiasts: Your rev-happy ride has arrived. All new for 2010, the four-door, five-passenger Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart shares its Super-All Wheel Control with the Evo. S-AWC distributes torque between the front and rear wheels. 0 to 60 mph is achieved in just around 5.5 seconds. Need we say more?

A 2.0-liter DOHC inline-4 cylinder turbocharged and intercooled engine blasts off 237 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 253 pounds-feet of torque at 3000 rpm. Mated to the power-at-all-times engine is an accurate 6-speed twin-clutch sportmatic transmission. The sport-tuned suspension of MacPherson front strut and rear multilink system can be driven on tarmac, gravel or snow. A rack-and-pinion hydraulic power steering is linear and precise.

Abundant power is just a throttle (and a switch!) away. All you got to do is switch to sport mode and you will find yourself maneuvering traffic with ease and confidence. Fear not about stopping or slowdown, thanks to robust 11.6-inch ventilated front and 11.9-inch solid rear disc brakes.

The noticeable hood scoop does serve a purpose: it delivers cool air to the turbocharger and vents engine heat. The bold exterior is further decked up by a jet-fighter chrome grille, halogen headlights, dual exhaust with finishers, rear wing spoiler and chrome lower-side molding.

The well-lit and spacious cabin gets standard automatic air-conditioning, comfortable and supportive 6-way adjustable driver and 4-way front-passenger seats, three-spoke leather steering wheel, aluminum pedals and footrest, and a clear-cut display of the instrument panel. The magnesium paddle shifters boost the athletic ride. Opt for the $2,750 Recaro Sport Package, which will fetch you front Recaro seats, HID headlights, 710-watt Rockford-Fostage sound system and Sirius satellite radio.

Safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes, driver’s side knee airbag, traction and stability control, front/rear stabilizer bars and limited-slip differentials.

The Sportback is a welcome and long-due addition to the Lancer stable. While displaying remarkable nimbleness and quick response, the peppy car delivers a fun and energetic ride.

LANCER SPORTBACK RALLIART

Tires: P215/45R18

Wheelbase: 103.7 inches

Length: 180.4 inches

Weight: 3,572 pounds

Fuel capacity: 14.5 gallons

City: 17 mpg

Highway: 25 mpg

Base price: $27,590

Web site: www.mitsubishcars.com

OUTLANDER TOUTS ON OR OFF-ROAD CAPABILITIES

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, up to seven-passenger 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT.

DOWN THE ROAD: Restyled for this year, the Outlander gets a 10 horsepower boost and an all-new GT model. The S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) vehicle responds with liveliness and quickness in all driving conditions.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Under the hood is the 3.0-liter V-6 engine, which pumps out 230 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 215 pounds-feet of torque at 3750 rpm. Power routed through the 6-speed automatic transmission gives an ample performance. Depending on weather and road conditions, the driver can select tarmac, snow or lock modes. The SUV automatically goes into idle at stops so fuel can be conserved. A front MacPherson strut and a rear multilink suspension system handle the bumps of unpleasant highway surfaces with little sacrifice to one’s back side. Bringing the Outlander to a stop or slowdown are 11.6-inch ventilated front and 11.9-inch solid rear disc brakes.

LOOK & FEEL: Bi-xenon horizontal headlights flank a mesh grille with chrome accents, which also deck up the side sill extensions. Step into the cabin and be coddled by cushy seats. The adventurous ones among you will be in awe of the magnesium paddle shifters on the firm three-spoke steering wheel. Head and legroom are ample for rear passengers, thanks to the 3.3-inch sliding fore/aft second-row seat. A standard dual glove box, fold-flat tailgate, automatic climate control, 710-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system and power glass sun roof result in a functional interior.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes, stability and traction control, active front differential, hill start assist, active front seat headrests, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $29,250, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P225/55R18; wheelbase, 105.1 inches; length, 183.7 inches; weight, 3,780 pounds; fuel capacity, 15.8 gallons; city, 18 mpg; highway, 24 mpg; Web site: www.mitsubishcars.com

WHY DIG IT: Whether you are on the road or heading off-road, the Outlander offers a civilized ride. Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, the SUV ensures safety during adverse weather or road situations. And its cargo-hauling and passenger-carrying capabilities help seal the deal. 

SUZUKI KIZASHI IS A LOT OF CAR FOR THE MONEY

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Suzuki Kizashi SLS midsize sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: “Something great is coming.” And that’s a Kizashi. Suzuki’s flagship car will leave you asking for more with its noteworthy performance, superb handling and ride qualities. Zero is 60 mph is achieved in just 7.4 seconds.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder engine develops 185 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 170 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The 6-speed manual transmission is easy-to-engage, smooth and precise. Front MacPherson strut and coil springs and a rear multilink suspension soak up rough surfaces and isolate occupants from road noise while maintaining balance. Ensuring an exceptional on-center feel even when you quickly hustle the car down the road is the rack-and-pinion power steering.

LOOK & FEEL: The steel unibody structure hosts a centered mesh grille with projector-beam headlights, making for a bold front fascia. The well-crafted cabin offers goodies you would find in premium and expensive sports sedans such as a foot-tapping Rockford Fosgate sound system (425 watts, 10 speakers), keyless engine start, 10-way power front and four-way passenger seats, leather on the three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel, shifter and parking brake lever, dual-zone automatic climate control and ambient overhead and foot well lights. Space is abundant with a dual glove box, center console storage tray and a 13.3 cubic-foot cargo area. Also standard are automatic headlights, rear-seat passenger a/c vents, heated seats and a sunglass holder.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Control, traction control, rear obstacle detection system and daytime running lights are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $24,395, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P235/45R18; wheelbase, 106.3 inches; length, 183.1 inches; weight, 3,483 pounds; fuel capacity, 16.6 gallons; city, 20 mpg; highway, 29 mpg; Web site, www.suzukiauto.com

WHY DIG IT: Can’t afford one of those upscale sedans you see whizzing by on the highway? No need to worry. Base-priced at $18,999 (S model), the first-rate performing Kizashi comes with an admirable gearbox, top-notch interior and generous cargo capacity. That’s a lot of car for the money.

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THIS ‘ROGUE’ DESERVES A PLACE IN YOUR GARAGE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Nissan Rogue S front-wheel-drive compact SUV.

DOWN THE ROAD: Now in its third year of production, the Rogue offers adequate acceleration to take you to the destination safe and sound. The small Nissan SUV delivers a comfortable well-damped ride with first-rate cornering balance and reasonable handling.   

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.5-liter inline-4 DOHC cylinder engine develops 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 175 pounds-feet of torque at 2800 rpm. It is mated to a Continuous Variable Transmission, which is easy to engage. The electric power rack-and-pinion steering conveys a solid on-center feel, willing to change directions when hustled along on the road. An independent strut with coil springs make up the front while the rear is equipped with an independent multilink suspension system. Stopping duties are left up to 11.84 inch front and 11.68 inch rear vented disc brakes.

LOOK & FEEL: Sitting on a unibody-type structure is a chrome grille with halogen headlights, body-colored bumpers and all-new chrome door handles. Making the interior functional is an oversize glove box, large center console with two cup holders, and holders for a memo, pen, coin, cell phone and sunglasses. Ingress and egress is easy with the 60/40-split rear seat, which when folded, ekes out 58 cubic feet of space. An under-floor cargo area storage tray can come in handy for wet items.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control with traction control, antiskid system, front seat active-head restraints, energy-absorbing steering column, front seatbelts with pretensioners, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $20,340, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges. The 360 Value Package for $1,040 will fetch you 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, auto-dimming inside mirror, rearview monitor, and rear-hatch spoiler and a chrome grille finisher.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 215/70HR18; wheelbase, 105.9 inches; length, 182.9 inches; weight, 3,281 pounds; fuel capacity, 15.9 gallons; city, 22 mpg; highway, 27 mpg; Web site, www.nissanusa.com

WHY DIG IT: Because of its versatility, functionality, high fuel-economy figures and value, of course. This is one useful ‘Rogue’ you want to keep by your side, or in this case, parked in your garage.

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ENJOY AN EXCEPTIONAL RIDE IN MAZDA CX-9

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, seven-passenger 2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring crossover SUV.

DOWN THE ROAD: Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV has been freshened for 2010 with exterior and interior upgrades. But the CX-9 maintains its power train, which is plenty to move the SUV down the road or cruise the highway with exceptional ride and reasonable handling prowess.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 3.7-liter DOHC V-6 engine cranks out 273 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 270 pounds-feet of torque at 4250 rpm. Power routed through the 6-speed automatic transmission gives ample performance. Suspension is handled via an independent MacPherson strut in the front and a multilink rear with stabilizer bars at both ends. The power rack-and-pinion steering is direct and precise. Braking is first-rate, courtesy of 12.6-inch front and 12.8-inch rear ventilated discs.

LOOK & FEEL: The steeply angled windshield is similar to last year’s version but the traditional five-point grille, headlights and tail lights get a makeover for 2010. The exterior is further dressed up with a chrome streak bar on the grille and trapezoidal dual exhaust pipes. The three-zone automatic climate control, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power seats are standard. What’s new are splashes of chrome on the instrument panel, air-conditioning control, automatic transmission lever and vent louver knobs, and inner door handles and trim. The piano-black inserts on the three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel lend classiness to the cabin. The 60/40-split second-row seat, which can slide fore and aft 5 inches, as well as the 50/50-split third-row seat, will be useful if traveling with children or hauling cargo.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for all rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Dynamic Stability Control and traction control, antiskid system with rollover sensor, front seat active-head restraints, three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, blind spot alert, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system.

OUT THE DOOR: $32,645, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P245/50R20; wheelbase, 113.2 inches; length, 199.8 inches; weight, 4,334 pounds; fuel capacity, 20.1 gallons; city, 16 mpg; highway, 22 mpg; Web site, www.mazdausa.com

WHY DIG IT: The CX-9 is anything but your run-of-the-mill crossover SUV. It offers abundant power, decent acceleration, tremendous passenger and cargo-hauling capabilities, and in the looks department, it scores a point or two for bold styling.

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INFINITI G37 OFFERS A WICKEDLY QUICK RIDE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Two-door, four-passenger 2009 Infiniti G37 convertible.

DOWN THE ROAD: Introduced just last year, the rear-wheel-drive convertible continues in 2010 without any significant changes. The ride is wickedly quick, with praiseworthy road handling and balance.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 3.7-liter DOHC V-6 engine pumps out 325 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 267 pounds-feet of torque at 5200 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, which ensures smooth upshifts and swift downshifts. An independent double wishbone suspension in the front and a multilink rear tackle corners with eagerness and sure-footedness. Stopping power is up to the instantly responsive 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotor discs. It takes the three-piece power retractable hardtop just 30 seconds to open or close.

LOOK & FEEL: The familiar Infiniti double-arch chrome grille is flanked by ‘boomerang-like’ HID xenon headlights, conveying an overall bold appearance. Also visible are a wave-style aluminum hood, body-colored mirrors and door handles, LED taillights and 19-inch wheels. The cabin is awash in elegance and luxury with fine touches of special silk Obi aluminum trim on the instrument panel, center console, door panels, pedals and foot rest. The driver information center is sandwiched quite conveniently between the electroluminescent gauges for coolant, tachometer, speedometer and fuel readings. Standard amenities include 12-way power front and eight-way rear passenger seats, intelligent key with push button, adaptive climate control and a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control, front seat active-head restraints, front seatbelts with pretensioners, pop-up roll bars, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system.

OUT THE DOOR: $43,900, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P225/45R19 front, P245/40R19 rear; wheelbase, 112.2 inches; length, 183.3 inches; weight, 4,099 pounds; fuel capacity, 20 gallons; city, 16 mpg; highway, 24 mpg; Web site, www.infinitiusa.com

WHY DIG IT: Top-down motoring enthusiasts, you will find this fun-to-drive G to your liking. Its excellent performance and eye-catching styling inside and out make for a noteworthy package.  

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RESTYLED ALTIMA IS A GREAT EVERYDAY RIDE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: Freshened for 2010, Nissan’s popular sedan acquires a restyled hood, grille, front bumpers and rear license plate. But the power train maintains its status quo, enabling this fourth-generation car to display tremendous agility, grip and response.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Previously known as the 3.5 SE, this model still offers the 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 engine with 270 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. It is mated to an efficient Continously Variable Transmission. The power rack-and-pinion steering is quick and precise. The front and rear suspension systems are independent of each other but with stabilizer bars at both ends. Thanks to sizeable 11.7-inch front vented and 11.5-inch rear solid discs, the car remains stable under heavy braking.

LOOK & FEEL: A familiar T-shaped and chrome-slathered grille is flanked by halogen headlights. Chrome also decks the dual exhaust tips though the side molding fascias and rearview mirrors are splashed in body color. The revised interior shows off the familiar three-round instrument gauges, now illuminated in white. Wood is sprinkled generously on the doors and under-dash area. Storage room is plentiful with the trunk offering 15.3 cubic feet of space. And we counted a total of nine cup/bottle holders throughout the cabin. Standard amenities include eight-way power driver seat, push-button ignition, trip computer with outside temperature gauge, four-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, and air-conditioning vents for rear-seat passengers.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, Vehicle Dynamic Control, traction control, antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, front seat active-head restraints and seatbelts with pretensioners, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system.

OUT THE DOOR: $24,520, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P215/55R17 all season; wheelbase, 109.3 inches; length, 190.7 inches; weight, 3,357 pounds; fuel capacity, 20 gallons; city, 20 mpg; highway, 27 mpg; Web site, www.nissanusa.com

WHY DIG IT: Introduced in 1993, the Altima has proved to be a huge success story for Nissan. Contributing toward the car’s immense reputation is the perfect blend of splendid performance and bold styling. Indeed, this is a great everyday ride for the money.

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TAKE A SERIOUS LOOK AT THE ALL-NEW KIA FORTE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Kia Forte SX compact sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: It replaces the Spectra with a 1.5 inches longer wheelbase and 1 inch more length overall. The Forte may not be a power house but it offers a good steering feel and decent handling.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 2.4-liter DOHC inline-4 cylinder engine with continuous variable valve timing develops 173 horsepower at 168 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. A standard 6-speed manual transmission delivers seamless shifts. The car absorbs vibrations, noise and harshness, thanks to a front MacPherson strut and stabilizer bar; the rear is equipped with a torsion beam. A power-assisted, rack-and-pinion steering is responsive, precise and sharp. It remains stable under heavy braking, which can be attributed to 11.8-inch ventilated front and 10.3-inch solid rear discs.

LOOK & FEEL: Sitting on a steel unibody frame are swept-back clean-lens headlights with a centered chrome surround grille, fog lamps, body-colored mirrors and door handles, and rear garnish. We stepped inside to find metal-finish trim and pedals, as well as red stitching on ebony seats, a nice touch in a compact car. The auxiliary audio/USB jacks and 12-volt power outlet are under the dashboard, in clear view and reach of the driver. Other amenities include six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 60/40 rear split seat, air-conditioning, four-spoke leather steering wheel and gear shifter.

SAFETY FIRST: Kudos to Kia for the following standard features in the small car: dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, stability and traction control, active front headrests, front seatbelt pretensioners, front and rear crumple zones and tire pressure monitoring system.

OUT THE DOOR: $17,195, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P215/45R17; wheelbase, 104.3 inches; length, 178.3 inches; weight, 2,853 pounds; fuel capacity, 13.7 gallons; city, 22 mpg; highway, 32 mpg; Web site, www.kia.com

WHY DIG IT: It’s a steal for just around $17,000. If in the market for an affordable compact car that comes with all the bells and whistles, and more, the Forte should get serious consideration. That it comes with a 10-year or 100,000-mile power train and a five-year or 60,000-mile basis warranty is a bonus. After all, it’s your ‘Forte.’

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RAM 1500 BOASTS TONS OF POWER

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, up to six-passenger 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab 4X4 full-size pickup.

DOWN THE ROAD: Redesigned for 2009, the Ram 1500 continues into this year with a few tweaks such as an increase in towing capacity. The pickup delivers an amenable ride with a precise steering feel and exceptional cornering ability.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Power’s up by 45 from its predecessor. The 5.7-liter V-8 Hemi engine cranks out 390 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 407 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The standard 5-speed automatic transmission shifts gently and effortlessly. A welcome change in the 2009 Ram is the use of a coil spring in rear suspension in place of the conventional leaf-spring arrangement. This nixes highway hop while resulting in a smoother ride for rear-seat passengers. However, the front independent wishbone suspension maintains its status quo. Tow capacity is a remarkable 8,400 pounds.

LOOK & FEEL: ‘Get out of the way’ screams the mammoth forward-canted grille, quad halogen headlights and aluminum hood with a large power badge. The 20-inch aluminum chrome-clad wheels draw attention too. The cabin offers gobs of storage areas, dual glove boxes and a cavernous center console. The driver information center, compass and outside temperature readings are conveniently located amid the six-ring instrument cluster. Other standard amenities are automatic dual-zone climate control, 10-way power driver and 6-way front-passenger’s seats, 60/40-split rear seat and a rear power-sliding window.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Control, seatbelt pretensioners and remote keyless entry are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $43,490, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, P275/60R20; wheelbase, 140.5 inches; length, 229 inches; weight, 5,612 pounds; fuel capacity, 26 gallons; city, 13 mpg; highway, 18 mpg; Web site: www.dodge.com

WHY DIG IT: The redesigned pickup packs tons of power while boasting abundant creature comforts and praiseworthy towing figures. If you would like to ‘head down, ready to charge’ on the road, we suggest going for the Ram 1500.

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MAZDA MX-5 AN EXHILARATING, ENTERTAINING RIDE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Two-door, two-passenger 2010 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring convertible.

DOWN THE ROAD: A carryover from 2009, the MX-5 is a fun, entertaining sports car. Top-down motoring enthusiasts will have a blast cruising the highway or tackling the rigors of daily driving, thanks to the convertible’s quick and agile character.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Power is derived from a 2.0-liter DOHC inline-4 cylinder engine, which makes 167 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 140 pounds-feet of torque at 5000 rpm. Guiding the nimble car toward its destination is a direct and accurate hydraulic power-assist, rack-and-pinion steering system. A front double wishbone and a rear multilink suspension absorb the blows of potholes, isolating occupants from road noise and uneven surfaces. Brake feel is excellent, mainly attributed to 11.4-inch vented front and 11-inch solid rear discs. Grip is solid, thanks to the 205/45R-17 tires.

LOOK & FEEL: Sitting on a monocoque, unibody structure are inboard-mounted headlights flanked by a chrome-sprinkled five-point grille, sculpted triangular fog lamp bezels and body-colored bumpers. Keeping true to the MX-5 tradition are the four circular air vents, arched hood over the T-shaped instrument panel and a black center stack. The driver’s seat height adjuster will be a plus point for multiple drivers in the family. Also standard are automatic air-conditioning, power windows and door locks, mesh aero board wind blocker, driver information center, three-spoke tilt steering wheel and a generous rear center console storage bin.

SAFETY FIRST: Dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, side impact door beams, anti-theft engine immobilizer and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

OUT THE DOOR: $26,410, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Wheelbase, 91.7 inches; length, 157.3 inches; weight, 2,480 pounds; fuel capacity, 12.7 gallons; city, 21 mpg; highway, 28 mpg; Web site, www.mazdausa.com

WHY DIG IT: The MX-5 is an exhilarating and entertaining car to drive. Open-air motoring fans will be in awe of its snappy acceleration, impressive handling, alert steering and a laudable fuel economy.

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GO TOP DOWN WITH THE 2010 NISSAN 370Z ROADSTER

                                                By NITISH S. RELE

                                                editor@motoringtampabay.com

It was just eight months ago that we had written rave reviews about the redesigned 2009 Nissan 370Z coupe. And now comes its cousin, the roadster, in all its glory. The redesigned 2010 370Z convertible gets not just a bigger displacement (from 3.5) but also more horsepower (26) and pounds-feet of torque (2). But the wheelbase of the rear-wheel-drive car is shorter by 4 inches, overall length by 2.6 inches and the vehicle is 150 pounds lighter than its predecessor. That should mute any past criticism about the Z’s weight.

Available in base or touring trims, the 3.7-liter V-6 engine puts out 332 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 270 pounds-feet of torque at 5200 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, which comes with an optional synchronized downshift rev match system to smoothly shift gears or an optional 7-speed auto transmission.

The sports car’s athletic and confident stance can be attributed to xenon headlights and taillights, which now show off a ‘boomerang’ appearance, vertical door handles, fender-mounted Z emblem/side markers and dual exhaust tips. The confidence-inspiring brakes, which feature 12.6-inch vented discs, operate inside 18-inch alloy wheels shod with 225/50 front and 245/45 rear tires.

Z enthusiasts will recognize the familiar insignia on the three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel and the three-bay gauge pods for oil temperature, voltmeter and digital clock atop the dashboard. Also standard are automatic climate control, push-button ignition, power windows, mirrors and door locks, eight-way manual driver and four-way passenger seats, tilt steering column and aluminum trim on center console and pedals.

Safety is ensured by standard dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, traction control, three-point seatbelts, front active-head restraints and a tire pressure monitoring system.

For performance-oriented folks, Nissan offers the NISMO with the same displacement as the convertible. However, the racing-inspired car cranks out 350 horsepower at 7400 rpm and 276 pounds-feet of torque at 5200 rpm and comes only as a 6-speed manual. Understandably so. Of course, the suspension is stiffer in the NISMO. And the wheels are bigger (19 inch) and brakes are larger (14 inches front and 13.8 inches rear)

With a touch of a button, you can open or close the soft power top in a mere 20 seconds. So, if open-air motoring buffs are looking to catch the sun and the eye of the onlookers, the 370Z fits the bill. The entertaining car is quick on its feet, delivering an enjoyable, lively ride at an unbeatable price. Besides, who doesn’t long to hear the awesome-sounding growl that emanates from a Z?

370Z ROADSTER (BASE)

Wheelbase: 100.4 inches

Length: 167.2 inches

Height: 52.2 inches

Suspension: double wishbone aluminum front; independent multilink rear

Steering: Power rack-and-pinion

Weight: 3,426 pounds

Fuel capacity: 19 gallons

City: 18 mpg

Highway: 25 mpg

Base price: $36,970

Web site: www.nissanusa.com

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2010 MAXIMA BOASTS TREMENDOUS POWER

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV midsize sports sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: A carryover from 2009, Nissan’s flagship sedan boasts tremendous power with impressive ride and handling. No wonder it can scoot 0 to 60 mph in a little under 6 seconds.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 engine pumps out 290 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 261 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm. The front-wheel-drive car is mated to a quite and smooth standard Continuous Variable Transmission with manual-mode capability. Suspension duties are ably handled by an independent strut with coils springs up front and a multilink rear system. The power rack-and-pinion steering system is razor-sharp with an admirable on-center feel. Bringing the quick car to a slowdown or stop are 12.6-inch front and 12.13 rear vented discs.

LOOK & FEEL: The Maxima conveys an athletic stance, thanks to a wide grille with the centered Nissan emblem, which is flanked by wraparound L-shaped headlights and a ‘catamaran-style’ hood. Step to the rear and you will notice once again L-shaped “stepped” tail lamps and dual-chrome exhaust tips. Peek inside and you’ll find touches of chrome on gauges, vent rings and knobs, and audio switches. Notable comforts include standard eight-way driver and four-way front-passenger power seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, 60/40 split fold rear seat, power-slide sunroof and power doors, mirrors, locks and windows. The electroluminescent instrument panel of gauges for speedometer, coolant temperature, fuel and a rotated tachometer are large and eligible. The three-spoke steering wheel offers a solid grip to tackle the rigors of daily driving. During long trips, a digital compass in the rearview mirrors will be useful.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, antiskid system, traction control, Vehicle Dynamic Control, front seat active-head restraints, front/rear crumple zones and a tire pressure monitoring system.

OUT THE DOOR: $33,180, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges. Go for the $2,030 sport package if you want a sport-tuned suspension, rear spoiler, HID xenon headlights, heated front seats, power tilt/telescopic steering column, paddle shifters, metallic-link trim, among other goodies.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 245/40VR19 all season; wheelbase, 109.3 inches; length, 190.6 inches; weight, 3,540 pounds; fuel capacity, 20 gallons; city, 19 mpg; highway, 26 mpg; Web site, www.nissanusa.com

WHY DIG IT: Nissan claims that the Maxima has it all: style, performance, comfort, technology and value. We are in full agreement. But paying some attention on making the cabin materials and gloss levels top-notch won’t go unnoticed either.

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DODGE CHALLENGER IS UP TO THE CHALLENGE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

Mostly a carryover from 2008, the iconic muscle car has made a remarkable return after 35 years. Built on a unibody structure, the 2009 Challenger SRT8 Limited Edition coupe (mostly maintaining its status quo in 2010) displays amazing agility, power and response. The credit of course goes to the robust Hemi engine.

The throbbing 6.1-liter V-8 engine blasts of 425 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 420 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. It is mated to a standard but all-new sprightly 6-speed manual transmission. Also all-new is a limited-slip differential, which transmits torque to prevent wheel slip. The multilink short- and long-arm front and five-link independent rear suspension deliver a comfortable well-damped ride. As are the braking capabilities of the 14.2-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotors, enabling the car to stop from 60 mph to 0 under 110 feet. The rack-and-pinion steering with hydraulic is direct.

It’s got the look, the bold look we must say, with its grille showing off a chrome surround on black field, black stripes and functional dual hood scoops, integrated brake cooling ducts on the lower chin spoiler and dual rectangular exhaust tips. Get behind the wheel and you realize instantly that this is a race-inspired ride with its all-new pistol-grip shifter, and red accent stripes on the seats and four-spoke steering wheel. Also evident are the four-bomb gauges with tachometer and speedometer and Reconfigurable Display with performance noted for the 0-to-60 mph time, 60 to 0 mph braking, g-forces and ¼-mile time. Retro but classy is the trapezoidal theme of the doors, gauge cluster, dark headliner and the slanted shifter console.

Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Program, traction control, energy-absorbing steering column, speed control, crumple zones, rear stabilizer bar and tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

Muscle-car fans, your ride has arrived. The Challenger is up to the challenge, whether it is facing the daily grind of traffic or, if you are a “speed” demon, taking the coupe to the racetrack. It’s agile, quick, athletic and entertaining. Just what you would expect of a race car.

And early next year, prepare to go Plum Crazy! Look for the Plum Crazy Challenger to return as R/T Classic and SRT8 models. The R/T Classic Pearl will come with matte black or new bright white dual-wife body-side stripes while the SRT8 gets performance seats with Plum Crazy accented seat stripe.

Test-drive the Challenger at Jerry Ulm Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep, 2966 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. For more information, call the dealership at (813) 769-5400 or visit www.jerryulmdcj.com

CHALLENGER SRT8 LIMITED EDITION

Tires: 245/45ZR20 all season

Wheelbase: 116 inches

Length: 197.7 inches

Height: 57.1 inches

Weight: 3,623 pounds

Fuel capacity: 19 gallons

City: 24 mpg

Highway: 22 mpg

Base price: $39,820

Web site: www.dodge.com

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LACROSSE TOUTS COMFORT, STYLE, PERFORMANCE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS luxury sedan.

DOWN THE ROAD: Redesigned for next year, the LaCrosse now has an inch longer wheelbase and is nearly an inch shorter than its predecessor. Of course, this doesn’t make a difference to the front-wheel-drive car’s performance, which is remarkably smooth and linear with plenty of power for passing or merging in peak-hour traffic.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: Under the hood sits a 3.6-liter direct injection V-6 engine, which doles out 280 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 259 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm. It is mated to a seamless-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. A four-wheel independent suspension made up of a front MacPherson strut and a multilink rear absorb rough surfaces and maintain stability. Thanks to Buick’s renowned QuietTuning, occupants are isolated from road noises and imperfections.

LOOK & FEEL: Sitting on 18-inch chrome-plated wheels is the massive waterfall grille flanked by horizontal halogen headlights and familiar portholes on the hood. The exterior is further dressed up by rectangular dual exhausts with bright. Peer inside and you’ll find a sumptuous, tailored and upscale cabin, as is expected of any Buick. With the remote start, you can turn on the ignition even before entering the cabin. The ice-blue ambient lights on the analog instrument cluster are eye-catching. As is the sprinkled dark wood grain on the shifter knob, four-spoke steering wheel, dashboard, center console and doors.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, ultrasonic rear park assist, three-point safety belts for all, front seatbelt pretensions, keyless start, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

OUT THE DOOR: $33,015, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 245/50VR18; wheelbase, 111.7 inches; length, 196.9 inches; weight, 4,065 pounds; fuel capacity, 18.4 gallons; city, 17 mpg; highway, 27 mpg; Web site, www.buick.com

WHY DIG IT: The redesigned LaCrosse is proof that the Buick renaissance is for real. It boasts a delicious brew of comfort, style and performance. This no-muss, no-fuss ride is going to be a tough competitor in the luxury-sedan market.

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GLK350 OFFERS A CAR-LIKE RIDE

By NITISH S. RELE

editor@motoringtampabay.com

THE RIDE: Four-door, five-passenger 2010 Mercedes GLK350 compact luxury SUV.

DOWN THE ROAD: All new for 2010 and sharing its platform with the C-Class, the GLK350 offers a car-like ride with the functional and practicality of an SUV. This rear-wheel-drive vehicle is equipped with a standard agility control, an auto-adjustable suspension to smoothen rough road surfaces.

TECH & PERFORMANCE: A rightly-sized 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 268 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 2400 rpm. It is mated to a crisp-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, which can be driven in comfort or sport modes. A four-wheel independent suspension of MacPherson struts in the front and a multilink rear lend a car-like agility to the SUV. Steering is quick and precise, thanks to a hydraulic power assist rack-and-pinion system. Braking duties are handled adeptly by 13-inch front and 11.8-inch rear ventilated discs.

LOOK & FEEL: Based on a unibody steel structure, the GLK350 exterior shows off a commanding trapezoidal radiator grille with two chrome louvers, a steeply raked windshield, projector-beam headlights, distinct horizontal tail lamps and dual exhaust chrome tips. Step into the cabin and be ensconced comfortably in supportive eight-way power front seats. The spacious second-row seat also can be folded flat to fetch 54.7 cubic feet of space in the cargo area. Ingress and egress is effortless because of large door opening angles and the elevated roof line. Leave it to Benz to use space smartly with a stowable under-floor cargo compartment. Also standard is the dual-zone automatic climate control, three-spoke leather tilt/telescopic steering wheel, driver information center and front and rear cup holders.

SAFETY FIRST: Standard features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, four-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Program, traction control, rollover sensor system, front active-head restraints, Hill Start Assist, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

OUT THE DOOR: $34,600, plus tax, tag, delivery and destination charges.

BY THE NUMBERS: Tires, 235/50R19; wheelbase, 108.5 inches; length, 178.3 inches; weight, 3,926 pounds; fuel capacity, 17.4 gallons; city, 16 mpg; highway, 22 mpg; Web site, www.mbusa.com

WHY DIG IT: There is no doubt that the all-new GLK enhances the Mercedes-Benz lineup of SUVs. If in the market for a compact SUV that drives like a car while boasting admirable cargo- and passenger-hauling capabilities, take the 350 for a test-drive. It will be well worth your time and effort.

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