FW: 2009 Nissan Cube: First Drive [Jalopnik Reviews]

>> Friday, February 27, 2009

 

 

Feed: Jalopnik
Posted on: Saturday, February 28, 2009 3:00 AM
Author: Wes Siler
Subject: 2009 Nissan Cube: First Drive [Jalopnik Reviews]

 

Image removed by sender.The 2009 Nissan Cube was designed for me: a young, design-conscious urban dweller. It's not a car; it's a mobile lifestyle enabler. Why, then, don't I like it?

Based on the Nissan Versa and sharing its 1.8-liter, 122 HP engine, it's here equipped with a continuously variable transmission. But really, the Cube's raison d'etre isn't its mechanical ability, but its body style. An upright two box like the Scion xB or Honda Element, the first generation Cube actually predated both those cars. This second generation vehicle, the first to be offered in the United States, attempts to soften the square edges, boosting both the design appeal and interior space.


The exterior is the kind of thing vacuous aesthetes go gaga for. The asymmetry and rounded boxes subvert traditional car archetypes into something that's more akin to a slightly outdated piece of architecture or furniture. While its profile is strikingly similar to that xB, it's radically different in detail, immediately looking like no other car on the road. Especially in a vibrant color like this teal, you'll stand out on the road in a way that might trouble men not confident in their sexuality.

But according to Nissan it's the interior that makes the car special. And that's where the Cube's argument starts to fall apart. Those heavily curved window apertures aren't repeated on the insides, creating square windowsills that are blocked off externally by the curves. The large, blacked off, asymmetrical rear 3/4 panel that so defines the exterior is also not repeated on the inside, it just masks traditional pillars and window placement. The narrow, vertical glass house and large, flat roof creates a dark, depressing interior environment that's not helped by the cheap plastics, outdated instruments and distinct lack of toys. Cubby holes, shelves and places to hang your man bag abound, but sitting in the Cube, you feel like an item being stored in a plastic cabinet, not a human driving a car. And while the upright design leads to spacious accommodation for five with a surprising amount of legroom given the exterior dimensions, actual utility is somewhat lacking. The trunk is ridiculously small and folding down the rear seats only results in a very square, but awkwardly shaped and surprisingly small area for cargo. A traditional five-door hatch is equivalent or better at hauling stuff in every way but height.


Nissan would like US customers to think of the Cube as a mobile living room, a concept created for space poor dwellers of Tokyo who need a car to double as mobile space for entertaining, relaxing, changing clothes and getting busy. That concept could be perfect for American teenagers, who are forced out of the house by creepily conservative parents yet are denied entry into venues for socializing. The only problem is that Americans like to do one thing that residents of Tokyo don't get the opportunity to: drive. The Cube isn't good at that.

Refinement is spoiled by the bouncy ride and the huge amount of noise coming from both the raucously unrefined engine as it annoyingly buzzes at constant, CVT-dictated revs, and also the wind noise created by the body and windshield's 90-degree opposition to the air. The Cube never feels dangerously slow (0-to-60 takes 9.3 seconds) nor dangerously ill handling, but its ability is, at best, basic. Compare to class-transcending rivals like the 2009 Honda Fit Sport, the Cube just isn't at all enjoyable to drive. The Cube also doesn't make up for this by being extremely efficient; we'd expect economy to be in line with the Versa's 27 MPG City, 33 Highway figures.

It's the Honda Fit that I constantly compared the Cube while I was driving it. While the Fit doesn't attempt to accomplish anything spectacular design wise, it ends up being a far more appealing vehicle thanks to an interior and driving experience that are far more capable than its size or spec sheet would suggest. The Cube is the opposite; its whacky looks aren't backed up by substance.

The Cube does have one thing going for it: price. Starting at just $13,990 with a six-speed manual, the CVT-equipped version you see here runs $15,690, while you can spend all the way up to $19,370 for the bells and whistles Krom version. The smaller, but more capable Honda Fit starts at $14,750, while the xB is $16,420.

So while young, design-conscious urban dwellers will be drawn to the Cube for its unconventional styling, they'll be disappointed by the distinctly conventional interior, utility and driving experience. It'll end up serving them just like a normal car, which is exactly what they'd be trying to avoid by purchasing one.

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FW: 2009 Toyota Avalon - Review

 

 

Feed: Car and Driver Blog
Posted on: Saturday, February 28, 2009 2:35 AM
Author: Car and Driver
Subject: 2009 Toyota Avalon - Review

 

What’s new, highlights, and safety info for the 2009 Toyota Avalon.

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Introduction

Toyota’s Avalon is a full-size car for those who have graduated from the Camry. In fact, the Avalon is basically a stretched version of the previous Camry and uses that car’s 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. No other powertrain choices are offered. For 2009, the Avalon lineup consists of three trim levels: XL, XLS, and Limited, listed in order of increasing luxury and price.

When the current-generation car debuted for 2005, it placed first in our comparo of six $30,000 family sedans. We praised it for its comfortable interior, ample power, and good fuel mileage. It has since been slightly refreshed and seen its gear count rise by one.

Verdict

The Avalon is a good car to go unnoticed in. The styling and driving dynamics won’t get anyone too excited, but that’s okay for many folks. Interior and cargo room is copious. Backseat occupants are treated to an adjustable backrest and plenty of room to stretch out. The car is most at home on long stretches of straight highway—just don’t fall asleep. The Avalon was recently announced as one of our Editors Choice picks in the Large Sedan category.

Keep Reading: 2009 Toyota Avalon - Review

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FW: 2009 Nissan Sentra - Review

 

 

Feed: Car and Driver Blog
Posted on: Saturday, February 28, 2009 1:46 AM
Author: Car and Driver
Subject: 2009 Nissan Sentra - Review

 

What's new, highlights, and safety info for the 2009 Nissan Sentra.

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Introduction

Nissan’s compact Sentra plays in an increasingly competitive league thanks to the growing number of consumers who are gravitating to smaller cars. Within the Nissan lineup, the Sentra occupies the space between the less expensive and slightly smaller Versa and the larger Altima family sedan. The Sentra was redesigned and basically all-new for 2007.

Although the Sentra is small on the outside, its high roofline and 105.7-inch wheelbase (among the longest in the class) yield a spacious and airy cabin that actually puts the Sentra in the EPA’s mid-size class. For those over six feet in height, the Sentra may prove to be the best-fitting of the compact segment. Interior design is decidedly modern, but the materials used can feel a bit cheap and actually trail behind those of the less expensive Versa.

While the high roofline pays dividends in interior volume, it also raises the center of gravity, which can give the Sentra a tippy and unsettled feel. In the regular Sentra, the shocks are tuned for a supple rather than sporty ride.

The Sentra comes in several different trim levels. The most basic is the 2.0, with the 2.0S, 2.0SL, SE-R, and SE-R Spec V following in the hierarchy. Two engines are available on the Sentra. The 2.0 models are, not surprisingly, powered by a 140-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual is available as is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel economy for Sentras powered by the 2.0-liter comes in at 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the six-speed manual and 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the CVT-equipped model.

Keep Reading: 2009 Nissan Sentra - Review

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FW: Nissan to skip some major auto shows in 2009

 

 

Feed: eGMCarTech
Posted on: Friday, February 27, 2009 9:17 PM
Author: admin
Subject: Nissan to skip some major auto shows in 2009

 

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While almost every automaker will be attending the 2009 Geneva Motor Show next week, the same came not be said for other major car shows. Nissan said that it has decided to skip some major auto shows starting April 1 to save cash has demand and sales decrease.

The Japanese automaker already pulled out of Detroit earlier this year and now plans on skipping the Frankfurt Motor Show which opens to the press in late Sept. Mitsubishi has also planned to not attend Frankfurt this year.

Nissan said that it has selected to attend only four major auto shows including New York, Shanghai, Tokyo and Geneva.

Source: Reuters

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FW: Nissan Pulls Out From LA Auto Show, Frankfurt [2009 LA Auto Show]

 

 

Feed: Jalopnik
Posted on: Thursday, February 26, 2009 11:15 PM
Author: Ray Wert
Subject: Nissan Pulls Out From LA Auto Show, Frankfurt [2009 LA Auto Show]

 

Nissan pulling out early from LA Auto Show, Frankfurt. [Autoblog]

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FW: Honda earns top rating on 2009 Consumer Reports top picks, Detroit 3 at the bottom

 

 

Feed: eGMCarTech
Posted on: Friday, February 27, 2009 6:16 AM
Author: admin
Subject: Honda earns top rating on 2009 Consumer Reports top picks, Detroit 3 at the bottom

 

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Honda has earned Consumer Reports’ top rating for the third straight year. Consumer Reports’ said that Honda makes “the best all-around vehicles for the American drivers.” Honda was followed by Subaru, Toyota and Mazda. Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Volkswagen and BMW tied for fifth place.

How did our American automakers rank? Consumer Reports said that FoMoCo and GM vehicles improved from last year but continue to rank with Chrysler “at the back of the class.” The publication said that no Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicle made the “recommended” list. In fact they were all rated “poor performing products” with “sinking reliability results.”

But if you’re still looking to buy America, Consumer Reports said that the Ford Flex, F-150, Chevy Malibu and the Cadillac CTS “rank near the top of their classes.”

You can check out the list of the 2009 Top Picks after the jump. Find out more info at Consumer Reports site.

Consumer Reports 2009 top picks

Consumer Reports has named its Top Picks for 2009. The Toyota Highlander and the Chevrolet Avalanche — top choices for midsized SUVs and pickups — dethroned the Hyundai Santa Fe and Chevrolet Silverado.

SMALL SEDAN

Hyundai Elantra SE

The Elantra SE ($18,695) is a comfortable, roomy small car that provides good fuel economy, a quiet and nicely finished interior, and plenty of features for the money. Only the SE version comes with standard electronic stability control, which is absent on many other small cars.

MIDSIZED SUV

Toyota Highlander

The Highlander ($26,000 to $41,000) is a very refined and versatile vehicle. It provides a comfortable and quiet ride, a nicely finished interior, three rows of seats, and decent fuel economy for its class. The Highlander Hybrid’s fuel economy, 24 mpg overall, is among the best of any SUV in Consumer Report’s Ratings. First-year reliability has been excellent.

PICKUP TRUCK

Chevrolet Avalanche

The Chevrolet Avalanche full-sized crew cab ($36,000 to $47,000) is one of the most versatile and comfortable pickups that Consumer Reports has tested. Its unified bed and cab helps give it a solid feel and a comfortable, quiet ride. Its innovative partition, between the cab and the bed, can be folded to allow longer cargo to extend into the back of the cab.

BEST OVERALL VEHICLE

Lexus LS 460

With a road test score of 99 out of 100, the Lexus LS 460 ($64,000 to $77,000) is Consumer Reports’ highest-scoring vehicle. It provides a luxurious, uncompromising driving environment, with a supremely comfortable ride and a roomy, well-finished, and exceptionally quiet interior. The LS is brimming with electronic amenities, yet the controls are easy to use. Its 380-hp, 4.6-liter V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission deliver smooth, quick acceleration and relatively good fuel economy.

FAMILY SEDAN

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord ($21,000 to $31,000) is a roomy, wellrounded sedan that’s easy to live with and enjoyable to drive. It offers a comfortable ride, agile handling, and efficient, refined four- and six-cylinder powertrains. Electronic stability control is standard, and crash-test results are impressive.

UPSCALE SEDAN

Infiniti G37

One of the highest-rated sedans tested, the G37 (33,000 to $36,000, formerly G35) combines sportiness and luxury in a very appealing package. It has a very lively powertrain, agile handling, a comfortable ride, and a nicely appointed interior. For 2009, it also has a larger, 328-hp, 3.7-liter engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission, which improves fuel economy.

FUN TO DRIVE

Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Miata ($22,000 to $29,000) is a true sports car at a reasonable price. With quick, precise steering, a crisp-shifting manual transmission, and balanced handling, it virtually tied the Porsche Boxster in test scoring, but it costs about half the price.

SMALL SUV

Toyota RAV4

Thanks to a larger and more powerful four-cylinder engine and other upgrades for 2009, the RAV4 ($23,000 to $30,000) narrowly outscored the Subaru Forester to remain our Top Pick for the third straight year. It provides agile handling, a roomy and quiet interior, a comfortable ride, and an optional third-row seat. The four-cylinder version gets the best fuel economy of any automatic, nonhybrid SUV CR has tested.

MINIVAN

Toyota Sienna

The Sienna ($26,000 to $38,000) offers a spacious, versatile, and comfortable way to carry up to eight people. Consumer Reports found that the quiet, well-finished interior rivals that of some luxury sedans. Electronic stability control is standard. This is the only minivan available with all-wheel drive.

GREEN CAR

Toyota Prius

Despite the arrival of more gas/electric hybrids, the Prius ($22,000 to $24,000) leads this category for the sixth straight year. The base model’s 44 overall mpg is the best Consumer Reports has measured in any five-passenger car. The interior is roomy and versatile, and reliability remains excellent. A redesigned Prius will arrive in early summer.

 

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

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200MPH Club: The Benchmark Has Been Set - Can You Keep Up?

>> Wednesday, February 25, 2009

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Supercars are now part of a new club in my opinion. Whether you agree with me or not, a new benchmark as has been set for performance cars to be called a “supercar”. The 200mph mark seems almost like a standard if a car wants to be in the once-sacred “supercar status”. I realize many supercars only reach speeds just shy of 200mph but when you consider the over-all performance of some vehicles and the astonishing capabilities, you might as-well welcome them to the 200mph club. With a few (pricy) bolt-ons or ECU programming you may be able to add another 10 to 20 mph to the top speed of many supercars anyway.

Our good friend, Chris Grosser, set out to Ochopee, Florida at a rented 2 mile long aviation runway just recently. The goal was to achieve top speed (in a supercar) during a series of runs in a controlled environment. I am not sure of anything that is more fun other than blasting down flat-out on a runway in a supercar. Below is the excerpt from Chris’s new blog. I encourage you to check out some of his professional photography shots if you have the time.

Image Gallery and excerpt from Chris Grosser’s site below…

Location: Ochopee, Florida – at a rented 2 mile long aviation runway

Date: 2/23/2009

Time: 7am-7pm

Goal: Super car top speed runs in a controlled environment

The sounds of cars flying by like rocket jets in excess of 200mph was nothing short of astonishing at yesterday’s 2 mile open runway event located at Ochopee, Florida.

The super car lineup consisted of cars that most people can only dream of, me included. Twin turbo Lamborghini Murcielagos and Gallardos filled the arena early in the morning when being unloaded from trailers at the venue.

A Saleen S7 brought massive amounts of attention from the fans. It’s not an everyday occurrence to view such cars in the wild, much less out on an endlessly long runway being pushed to its limits. It’s a thing of sheer beauty to view a car like the S7 being run to its full potential and not just sitting behind a glass showcase or velvet ropes like a coveted piece of art.

Two Robinson R44 helicopters even made brief appearances. Other visits from curious planes in the area made fly- bys to view the tens of millions of dollars in super cars from around the country.

Having been fortunate enough to take a quick ride in my good friend’s Bentley Continental GT and quickly surpassing the 175mph mark - the 200mph barrier in cars such as the Saleen S7, Twin turbo Murcielago, 1300 horsepower, LP640, Ford GT, or Twin Turbo “Underground Racing” Gallardo seem shockingly feasible.

Feasible is merely an understatement as new speed records were approached and surpassed throughout the day. 200 miles per hour quickly became the new standard for the super cars to strive for and many did just that.

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