Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reviews. Show all posts
Sunday, September 8, 2013
2006 Nissan Armada Reviews Specs
The Armada is a great full size suv more room then chevy and just as big as ford. The ride is better then most full size SUVs the gas milage could be better, but if your towing you dont look at the MPG. The Armada can tow just over 9000 bls which is the highest in its class even the Durango with a Hemi falls short of that mark.The four wheel drive system is great, you have four different setting to choose, 2WD, AUTO4, 4HI, and 4LO. With the Auto4 and VDC on this baby stays on track and under controll. If I had to buy over again I would be driving the Armada. One bad thing I had brake problems at first but my dealer and Nissan corrected the problem and they did a good job of it too. If you are thinking of this SUV and another one i would lean tword the armada. I drive a 2005 Armada LE 4WD.
News
With demand for big SUVs now generally soft, Armada should get only minor near-term changes. A rumored interior upgrade failed to materialize for 06, but could be on the 07 menu.
New For 2006 Nissan Armada
A more-versatile 3rd-row seat highlights this large SUV for 2006. Armada is based on Nissans Titan pickup truck. It offers SE and LE versions in 2- and 4-wheel drive, and a 4WD SE Off-Road model. The 4WD system can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. The sole powertrain is a 305-hp V8 and 5-speed automatic transmission. ABS and antiskid system are standard. A load-leveling suspension is optional on SE, standard elsewhere.
SE Off-Road has a special suspension and gains a standard towing package for 06. A power liftgate is standard on LEs, available for SEs; all include opening glass. Curtain side airbags covering all three seating rows are standard. Front side airbags and leather upholstery are available for SE, standard otherwise. LE seats seven and has 2nd-row bucket seats with a removable center console. Optional on LE and standard on the others is a 2nd-row bench for eight-passenger capacity. For 06, a 60/40 split folding 3rd-row bench seat replaces a one-piece type. All rear seats fold into a level load deck. Exclusive to LEs is an optional navigation system with rearview camera. Nissans upscale Infiniti brand sells a retrimmed Armada as the QX56.
Interior
Armadas cabin is attractive, comfortable and convenient. The attractive mix of interior materials gives it a nice look without fake wood-grain trim or excessive use of chrome. The Seton leather available on the Off-Road model is rich and luxurious with texture thats visually appealing.
The eight-way adjustable drivers seat is comfortable and supportive. Adjustable pedals and a tilting steering column help ensure the proper driving position. We found the seats comfortable and liked the commanding view of the road. A two-piece sun visor keeps the sun off the eyes. The gauge package includes speedometer and tachometer, oil pressure, temperature, voltage and fuel gauges. Ordering the towing package adds a transmission temperature gauge.
Places to stash stuff are provided. Opening the lid to the center console reveals a deep storage compartment. In front of that is a large open binnacle, perfect for tossing odds and ends, and an arm swings out to secure a big water bottle. There are narrow storage channels along the sides of the center tunnel and more storage is found in the interior door panels and on top of the dashboard above the outer vents. The center consoles well-designed cup holders are easy to access. Armada offers 14 cup holders and four of them are designed to hold 64-ounce beverage containers. A long, overhead console provides more storage and a pair of map lights. Three 12-volt outlets are provided, including one in the rear, and two of them provide power even when the engine is not running.
The back seats offer acres of space. Passengers in the second row enjoy 42 inches of leg room. Families told Nissan they need more room in the second row than whats available in other full-size SUVs, so the Armada was designed with best-in-class rear legroom. The second-row seats recline so you can really stretch out. A choice of rear seats is available: a bench seat with a flip down armrest or captains chairs with a large center console. Either way, the second-row seat feels roomier than in the Ford Expedition and much roomier than in Tahoe, Yukon, or Sequoia.
Third-row seats are raised, stadium style, for better forward visibility by those sitting back there. The second-row seats easily flip down and tumble out of the way when getting in and out of the third row; the release is a little easier to operate than the Expeditions. Once seated, we found them reasonably comfortable for third-row seats, but they are more suitable for children or short distances.
The Nissan Armada can carry almost as much cargo as a Spanish armada from the heyday of maritime explorers. With all seats in their full upright positions, the Armada provides 20 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which is similar to that of the Expedition. Its deep enough to fit a 30-gallon cooler. Theres also a nice storage area hidden beneath the rear section of the cargo floor. The second- and third-row seats fold flat to the cargo floor. Folding down the third row reveals 57 cubic feet of cargo space, considerably more than whats found in the Expedition.
Folding down both rows provides 97 cubic feet of space, a little less than the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition. Fold down the front passenger seat and you can fit a 10-foot ladder inside. Like the Expedition, there are gaps in the floor between the second- and third-row seats when all are folded flat. Second-row bucket seats come with a center console between them and this setup is not nearly as good as the second-row bench seat when its time to haul cargo or dogs.
Getting in and out is easy in spite of the high step up. The inside door handles are well designed for easy exit. The rear doors open wide. And the running boards help when climbing in or out.
Safety
The Nissan Armada comes standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, rear parking sensors and side curtain airbags that protect all three rows of passengers. A vehicle rollover sensor will deploy the side curtain airbags when it senses an imminent rollover accident. Seat-mounted side airbags for front occupants are optional on the SE and standard on the LE.
Powertrains and Performance
All Armadas come with a 5.6-liter V8 paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Rated at 305 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque, the V8 produces a broad band of power and warrants an impressive 9,100-pound maximum tow rating. SE and LE models are available with two- or four-wheel drive; the SE Off-Road is 4WD only. Four-wheel-drive models use a pushbutton transfer case with dual-range gears.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The Nissan Armada is available only as a four-door SUV. There are three trim levels: SE, SE Off-Road and LE. Base SEs come well equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, three rows of seating, a power driver seat, a tire-pressure monitoring system, power-adjustable pedals, rear parking sensors, rear-seat air conditioning, an eight-speaker stereo with an in-dash CD changer and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The SE Off-Road adds Rancho shocks, a lower final drive ratio, 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, foglights and skid plates. The high-line LE model loses the hard-core off-road equipment but gains upscale items like a power liftgate, heated leather seats, driver-seat memory, a power front passenger seat, second-row bucket seats, and an upgraded 10-speaker Bose audio system. Many of these features are optional on SE and SE Off-Road models. A sunroof and rear DVD entertainment system are optional on all trims. A DVD-based navigation system with a rearview monitor is an exclusive LE option.
Driving Impressions
The Nissan Armada offers brilliant throttle response and feels quicker and more responsive than other SUVs in its class. Its 5.6-liter V8 produces a best-in-class 305 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque.
The five-speed automatic transmission takes full advantage of the engines strong low-end torque. Having five gears to choose from makes the Armada very responsive and the transmission never hunts around for the right gear. It shifts smoothly and the close ratios eliminate abrupt downshifts. The substantial torque is available even at low rpm, providing confidence-inspiring power when merging into heavy highway traffic with a loaded two-horse box in tow or when maneuvering off road. A 2WD Armada earns a 13/19 mpg City/Highway EPA fuel economy rating, 13/18 for 4WD.
Like the Titan, Nissans brawny full-size pickup, the Armada is built on a fully boxed steel ladder frame that yields a smooth ride and responsive handling. Unlike Titan, Armada features an independent rear suspension, a design that enhances ride and handling. Indeed, the Armada makes a smooth transition as it turns into corners. Its handling feels controlled and handles emergency lane-change maneuvers well at highway speeds. The front suspension is also independent with rack-and-pinion steering.
We found the Armada to be very well mannered, instilling a sense of confidence in the driver that this full-size SUV will go and turn as well if not better than its competition. The brakes dont seem to be fully up to the task of repeated hard braking, however, a consideration when towing through mountainous areas.
The Off-Road package rides much better than we expected after looking at its big, aggressive off-road tires and reading about its Rancho suspension. Out on the highway, it does not ride as well as the standard suspension, however, as road vibration is transmitted on rough freeways. For driving off road, the angle of approach (without the front spoiler) and departure are 31.1 degrees and 27.7 degrees, superior to the Toyota Sequoia and Chevy Tahoe, and the ramp-over angle is 25.0. The 4x2 SE has 9.9 inches of ground clearance while the SE 4x4 and all LEs have at least 10.6 inches of clearance.MSRP Price Range $34,700 - $42,800
Invoice Price Range $31,548 - $38,912
Favorite Features
The DVD entertainment. While the kids can watch, the parents can listen to their own music. NAV- excellent, easy to navigate. Interior design and functionality. Exterior design...it turn heads. I also like the feature, which tells you hown miles left until empty.Helps with your decision to gas up.
Overall Review
this vehicle is no less then any other brand or suv in this market. armada can beat the tahoe,sequoia,expedition,navigator or any suv anytime, anyday. if you want a suv with better torque, towing capacity,more power,amazing acceleration, then this is the car for you!
Friday, September 6, 2013
2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Reviews
I test drove one of these bad boys and I was very impressed. The had a couple of these and the new Civic SI. The Cobalt SS was much more fun to drive!Engine, mechanics, and electrical stuff is all great. Runs smooth, no rattles, or vibrations at high speeds. Exterior and interior design is great, better than the civic (if you must compare), but the material used inside does not match up with the civic. If you dont mind having plastic panels, its okay. I got the loaded SS w/subwoofer and all, and for a couple thousand more I could of gotten the Civic SI, but the Cobalt just looks better.
If you want a honda get the Civic SI, if its too much money, just get this cobalt SS. Dont waste your money on the Civic DX, LX, or EX.
New for the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
Chevrolet revises the 2006 Cobalt lineup, ditching the Base trim in favor of LS, LT sedan, and a new premium LTZ version (sedan only) for the volume models. Also new this year are SS coupes and SS sedans with a 171-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood, special exterior trim, 17-inch wheels, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, and performance suspension tuning. The hot SS Supercharged coupe from last year returns for 2006. Majestic Amethyst and Laser Blue are the new colors this years
Interior
Inside the Cobalt, the design theme is simple and straightforward. Materials are decent and the fit and finish is good and comparable for the class. Theres just enough chrome trim here and there on knobs and instruments to brighten things up without a lot of glare from the shiny parts. Instruments are large, well placed, and easy to read, with nice graphic treatment throughout.
Cobalt uses different seats in the different trim levels, each with detail changes in foam, padding and trim. We found plenty of fore/aft and rake adjustment for a 6-foot, 4-inch driver, plus seat height adjustment with a ratcheting handle. The LT seats were very comfortable and grabbed us in the fast corners exactly where we needed to be grabbed and held. Even better were the leather-trimmed seats in the SS Supercharged.
The available Pioneer seven-speaker sound system with the Delphi AM/FM/CD and XM Satellite Radio delivers good sound and includes a huge subwoofer mounted on the left side trunk wall.
The heating, ventilation and defroster system worked quickly and intuitively.
The LS comes with manually operated windows. We dont mind this, but it takes a lot of cranks (about four and half) to wind the windows up. The urethane steering wheel that comes on LS and LT models feels cheap. The leather-wrapped wheels on LTZ and SS models are much nicer.
The sedan trunk is wide and deep with a low liftover height, and almost 14 cubic feet of capacity, more than competitive in the class, though the opening to the trunk seems relatively small. Cobalt does not use space-eating gooseneck hinges on its decklid, opting instead for simple outside corner hinges and two hydraulic assist struts. The coupe has a very small trunk opening, making it difficult to fit a thick suitcase. A 60/40-split, fold-down rear seat with a trunk pass-through feature adds utility to both sedan and coupe.
Safety
Antilock brakes are optional on LS models, and standard on all other Cobalt models. Full-length side curtain airbags are optional across the board. Each seating position has a three-point seatbelt, and all but LS models can be equipped with OnStar telematics. The 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is one of the few economy cars to earn an "Acceptable" rating from the IIHS for side-impact protection. The IIHS also named it a "Best Pick" for its frontal-offset crash performance, while the NHTSA gave it four stars for the driver and five for the passenger in frontal-impact tests.
Powertrains and Performance
A 2.2-liter four-cylinder powers LS, LT and LTZ models. With 145 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque, the engine makes the Chevrolet Cobalt one of the faster econoboxes out there. The SS features an even more potent 2.4-liter version with 171 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. The SS Supercharged coupe features a supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 205 hp, 200 lb-ft of torque and a 7-second 0-60 time. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual with a four-speed automatic available as an option. The automatic is standard on the LTZ, and not available on the SS Supercharged.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The Chevrolet Cobalt is available as a two-door coupe or four-door sedan. Coupes come in LS, LT, SS and SS Supercharged trim, while sedans come in LS, LT, LTZ and SS versions. LS models feature a standard CD player, air conditioning, a driver-seat height adjuster, a split-folding rear seat and 15-inch wheels. The LT adds cruise control; power windows, locks and mirrors; keyless entry; upgraded seats; alloy wheels; upgraded interior lighting; and antilock brakes. The LTZ sedan comes with leather seats, a seven-speaker Pioneer sound system, chrome trim and 16-inch alloys. The new-for-06 SS adds a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, unique fascias, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. The SS Supercharged coupe features a supercharged motor, an even firmer suspension, leather seats with color-keyed inserts, a boost gauge and 18-inch alloys.
On the Road
I first sampled the new 2.4, an enlarged version of the 2.2 that powers the regular Cobalt, in the new PT Cruiser-like HHR based on the same platform. In the HHR this engine felt very smooth, especially compared to the rough unit in the Chrysler. But then the HHR does not aspire to be a sport sedan. In sport sedan duty the 2.4 doesnt come across nearly as well. Its buzzy and doesnt readily rev. An eagar to upshift automatic transmission doesnt help matters. Put the two together, and the SS felt only a bit more powerful than the regular Cobalt, and no sportier.
Perhaps the 2.4 works better with the manual. But I wouldnt count on it, as the manual I sampled in a regular sedan last year was nothing special. The shifter in the SS Supercharged coupe has shorter throws and generally feels better, but unfortuntely its not used in the regular SS.
The Cobalts steering is assisted by an electric motor rather than the conventional hydraulic pump. Though this system boosts fuel economy by about 0.7 MPG, I have strongly disliked it in other GM vehicles (ION, Malibu, Equinox, VUE), but as tuned in the SS Supercharged, with higher effort and significantly quicker responses, I didnt much mind it. Sadly, once again the SS is much closer to the regular Cobalt than the SS Supercharged. I had hoped that Chevrolet would simply use the SS Supercharged steering and suspension in the SS, but apparently they felt that tuning somewhere between the two, but closer to the regular car, was more appropriate.
As a result, even in SS form the Cobalt sedan lacks the feeling of nimbleness and agility I expect in a compact. To GMs credit, the Cobalts handling is solid and secure, and the SS suffers even less than the regular car from body lean and understeer in turns. Its just not at all sporty. If you want a "Performance Handling" suspension in the Cobalt, your only option is the SS Supercharged Coupe.
Ride quality is a bright area. The SS feels just a bit firmer than the regular sedan, though the lower profile tires contribute a small amount of busyness over some surfaces. Like the regular sedan, the SS feels very solid and noise levels are very low for a compact.
Summary & Specs
The Chevrolet Cobalt will satisfy the needs of drivers looking for economy of price, economy of operation, and a nice, quiet ride. We think its a handsome, well-equipped car. The standard engine could offer more responsive low-end power, however. The Cobalt LS and LT models are the epitome of driving excitement, however. Theyre not made for that. They deliver four people comfortably, five only in a pinch, on a minimal outlay for fuel and monthly payments. The SS models are fun to drive, particularly the Cobalt SS Supercharged coupe.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
2006 Scion tC Reviews Specs
My nephew bought this car, a dark silver color with a 5-speed, although I do drive it whenever I choose. He used to own a 04 Honda Civic si, there is no comparison. The Scion is a hands-down winner in the contest. The Scion has so much more midrange torque, and upper end horsepower, that driving this car sportily is very easy.The Honda Civic si had to be literally beaten to be made to do the same thing the Scion does in its relaxed mode. Also, the Scions quality of fit and finish both interior and exterior blow the Honda away. I dont know why these young people even waste their time buying a Honda or Acura when these Toyota products are so "top of the line". My nephew says its because of that movie "The Fast and Furious"...this made me laugh...the ignorance of youth?
News
We hear the tC could be dropped by mid-2008 in deference to the ever-changing tastes of Scions young, trendsetting target buyers. One rumored replacement would deck out parent Toyotas Matrix compact wagon with "rally car" styling and perhaps a hot engine and all-wheel drive to go with it. Still, this so-called "xR" is just one of many possibilities that Toyota could brew from its many worldwide platforms and powertrains. Meantime, the tC shouldnt change much except for trim packages and maybe a few new functional features.
New for 2006
Introduced for the 2005 model year, the 2006 Scion tC gains audio system upgrades including a new three-spoke steering wheel with integrated audio controls and a new standard Pioneer audio system. New exterior colors are Classic Silver Metallic and Nautical Blue Metallic. A Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit with iPod control is now available as an all-new accessory upgrade for all 2006 Scions. This head unit integrates track, artist and album information from the iPod into a one-line display on the head units screen.
Interior Design and Special Features
Although the Scion tC is a compact car at just 174 inches long, a relatively long (106.3-inch) wheelbase provides more than ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Rear passengers will also enjoy the split seat backs that can individually recline up to 45 degrees. Although it looks like a coupe, the tC is actually a hatchback, which means flexible cargo capacity. By folding down the rear seats as well as the right front seat, a load floor that stretches 103.6 inches is created, ideal for snowboarders and surfers. Cargo capacity is 12.8 cubic feet with the rear seats in use and a whopping 60 cubic feet when theyre folded down.
Safety
The Scion tC comes with four-wheel antilock disc brakes (with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) as standard equipment. Side airbags for front occupants and full-length head curtain airbags are optional. Other standard safety features include a first aid kit, triple side door beams and a driver knee airbag.
Powertrains and Performance
Standard power for the Scion tC comes from a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder borrowed from the Camry, with 160 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. A smooth-shifting five-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a four-speed automatic available as an option. Fuel economy is average for a budget coupe with a 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway estimate for the manual, and 23 city/30 highway for the optional automatic.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The Scion tC comes in one trim level and is chock-full of unexpected goodies such as one-touch up-and-down power windows, cruise control, air conditioning, steering wheel audio controls, keyless entry, mirror-mounted turn signal lights, four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a 160-watt Pioneer sound system with CD player and remote mini-jack port that is (XM) satellite radio-ready. The only factory option is a side airbag package, but there is a multitude of dealer-installed options. This list includes a CD changer, satellite radio, a subwoofer and a lighting kit for the footwell, just to name a few. A unique iPod connectivity upgrade is also available, and allows full iPod control, including power and display, through the tCs audio system.
Driving Impressions
The Scion tC is fun to drive. The engine is quiet, smooth, and plenty powerful in a 2900-pound car, and at full throttle, it sounds powerful without being intrusive, because it has a valved muffler that opens up at high rpm and can be worth as much as 5 horsepower.
The 2.4-liter double overhead cam, 16-valve engine is tuned to 160 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. This engine has been around Toyota in one form or another for many years and it has been continuously improved for power, torque, quietness and reliability. It comes with electronic variable valve timing for good low end torque development, and twin balance shafts for smoothness.
Choosing between the five-speed manual and four-speed automatic involves tradeoffs. The automatic is easier and, remarkably, more efficient, while the manual offers quicker acceleration performance. The gearing in the four-speed automatic means its not the hot setup for drag racing, with an overall ratio of just over 10:1. The five-speed manual is nearly 15:1, delivering much quicker acceleration in first gear. However, the automatic does move out smartly. And its obviously much easier to live with in the stop-and-go and slow-and-go, eliminating the need to exercise your left leg on the clutch pedal. Unlike most cars, the tC gets slightly better highway mileage with the automatic because the manual has a lower 4.235 axle ratio.
The steering, ride quality and overall handling of the Scion tC are commendable. Ride quality and stability are enhanced by its 106-inch wheelbase, longest in the class. It steers with a hefty touch, but accurate pointing, and transitions are easy and without drama. Thats because the tC has a low-cost MacPherson strut front suspension coupled with an expensive independent double-wishbone rear suspension not found on many cars in this price class. Bridgestone Potenza tires are standard.
The brakes are quite powerful for a car this light. The pedal feel and travel is very much to our liking, with almost no dead space at the top of the pedal travel. The ventilated front and solid rear discs are generously sized (10.8 inches front, 10.6 inches rear) and, as mentioned, ABS and EBD come standard. ABS allows the driver to brake and steer in a panic braking situation; EBD automatically balances braking forces front to rear, improving stability under hard braking and helping reduce stopping distances.
Favorite Features
My favorite features would be the price, rims, sound system, sunroof, metallic paint, Scion VIP security, high quality, and the look of the car from the outside and on the inside (not just high quality looking but actually high quality).
Overall Review
If you dont NEED a four door vehicle, and you want something fun to drive, this is it! Its an amazing value for all the standard options, and also has Toyota reliability. If you are in the market for a sporty, reasonably priced new car, I would HIGHLY recommend this one!
MSRP Price $16,300
Invoice Price $15,485
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
2006 Lincoln Town Car Reviews
This 2003 review is representative of model years 2003 to 2006.Below is a full, detailed 2006 Lincoln Town Car review and road test from new car Test Drive. A full evaluation of price, equipment, the driving experience, and specs are all here in a structured, easy-to-navigate format from journalists with limitless experience.
The big 2003 Lincoln Town Car is reminiscent of grand 1930s luxury cars such as the large Duesenbergs, Packards, Cadillacs and Lincolns.
Such rear-drive cars were breathtaking, especially if they had custom bodies. Even today, a 1936 Packard Twelve with a custom body by Fernandez & Darrin of Paris can stop people in their tracks.
However, Duesenbergs and Packards are long gone, and General Motors and DaimlerChrysler have abandoned the V8, rear-drive luxury sedan market—at least temporarily.
That makes the Lincoln Town Car really stand out. It has some of the visual impact of the top 1930s luxury cars because of its slick styling and large size. In fact, its the only big rear-drive V8 American luxury yacht left.
The latest version of the Town Car has gone on sale this summer as a strategically improved early 2003 model, with base prices ranging from $40,270 to $50,700.
Big car with big trunk
"Town Car customers can buy whatever they please, and their priorities are room, ride, comfort and safety," said Rick Brisson, Town Car brand manager. Indeed, the more than 17.5-foot-long Town Car is all about room. It already had the largest trunk in its class— perfect for suitcases and golf bags of all sizes. You dont have to organize them or sort them; they seem to fit back there without fuss.
Now, access to the Town Cars 21-cubic-foot trunk is improved, thanks to a wider trunk opening in the 2003 and the fact the mini-spare tire that used to intrude from a back shelf in the trunk is repositioned.
Inside, the Town Cars 45.8 inches of legroom in the front seat and minimum 41.1 inches in the back seat— 46.96 inches in the Town Car long-wheelbase trims— are noteworthy. In contrast, the Cadillac DeVille has 42.4 inches of front legroom and 43.2 inches in the back, according to Cadillac.
Likewise, the Town Cars front-seat hip room of 57.3 inches surpasses that of the DeVille and Lexus LS 430.
Limo-Style Rear Room
Most of the extra space of the longer-wheelbase trims is devoted to more rear-seat room. In fact, the long-wheelbase trims have more back seat legroom than any regular production car. However, the standard-length Town Car has plenty of rear-seat room.
One might think that the big, heavy Town Car would be clumsy, but the 2002 model was generally good in that regard and the 2003 model is significantly better.
Same engine, more power
The 2003 Town Car has the 4.6-liter, single overhead cam V8 that was in the predecessor.
But it makes more power now — 239 horsepower vs. 220 in the 2002 Town Car. Torque is up 22 lb-ft to 287 at 4100 rpm.
Its more than adequate to get the new Town Car up and moving quickly. I launched out of a parking lot and into traffic, yet easily managed to keep ahead of the oncoming cars, for example.
Shifts from the four-speed automatic transmission are smooth most of the time. There was a sharp jerk when the accelerator was depressed hard for a bit, as if the driver wanted quick acceleration, then released suddenly.
But despite the increased engine power, I didnt hear a lot of engine noise while inside the Town Car. The exception was when I had the pedal to the metal. Then, the deep sounds of a V8 at work would come through. Theyre newly tuned for a more pleasant sound this year, too. Fuel economy isnt bad for a car this big that can carry up to six passengers. The 2003 Town Car, which comes with a four-speed automatic transmission, is rated at 17 miles a gallon in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Improved Steering
The stiffer frame helps handling. So does the new rack-and-pinion steering, which replaces the older models less precise recirculating ball steering gear. Steering effort is low at parking speeds and rises progressively as speed goes up.
The front suspension has a more robust design with such items as upgraded shock absorbers to improve handling.
A revised rear suspension also allows better handling and reduces transmission of road impacts into the cars structure. That suspension has a stabilizer bar, and load-leveling air springs maintain a constant ride height, regardless of vehicle load.
There is a more powerful 4-wheel anti-lock brake system with a new booster that provides a "panic assist" during fast stops.
Pros:
A return to more formal styling
Suspension improvements bring better handling
Oh-so-roomy back seat, especially in L trims
Cons:
Still some floaty sensations
No head restraint for middle person in back
Some features not offered
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Reviews SUV Used Car Reviews
2003-2005 Subaru Forester
If it seems funny that Subaru had us test its 2003 Forester at Alabamas Talladega Superspeedway, trust me, it was. By the third time Id steered the second generation of this car-based SUV through the 2.66-mile ovals 33-degree high banks, I was grinning. By the end of my co-drivers turn at the wheel, I was laughing nonstop, so unlikely was the scene of this sensible Subaru all-wheel-driving at 85 mph over the same pocked tarmac where NASCAR stockers rub fenders at nearly 200.
I couldnt help thinking that we should have driven the new Forester on the steep ascents of San Francisco, the better to test the famous Hill-Holder clutch, which returns in the Forester after a five-year absence from the Subaru lineup. (The food would have been better in Frisco, too.) The Hill-Holder, standard with the five-speed manual, engages a pressure-holding valve when both clutch and brake pedals are depressed. Let up on the brake, and in that brief moment when your right foot is moving toward the accelerator pedal, when normally the car might roll backward toward Fishermans Wharf, the brakes stay locked until your hoof actually makes contact with the go pedal.
But we were not in San Francisco, and we do like Alabama barbecue, just as weve liked the Forester since it debuted five years ago as one of the first crossover vehicles. For 2003, changes to the wackiest Subaru are not revolutionary, but theyre noteworthy. The sheetmetal is new, with raised-eyebrow headlights and a hexagonal tailgate framing the more muscular bodywork. The stiffer chassis, derived from the new Impreza, boasts a front subframe made of hydroformed steel members.
Bigger anti-roll bars and front brakes have been fitted, and the interior has been freshened. Subarus 165-horsepower, 2.5-liter boxer four returns. You were expecting the Impreza WRXs turbo four? Dream on--the Forester is practical, not fantastical. Besides, that scenario would substantially raise the Foresters tariff, currently in the low to mid-$20,000s, and Subaru hopes to hold the line on Forester pricing, maybe even to drop it a bit on a comparably equipped basis.
The Forester has never beckoned to hot-footers, anyway, or to those people for whom all consumer goods, whether they be houses, fountain drinks, or SUVs, are better if theyre bigger. Its appeal lies in its standard all-wheel drive; modest yet functional overall size; just-right seating position--not too high, not too low, offering superb all-around visibility; useful 7.5 inches of ground clearance; and reasonable cargo capacity. If you haul around all your worldly goods, skip this one. But if you leave most of them at home, the Foresters 32.0 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 64.1 with them folded will serve you well. My co-driver and I hauled a seven-foot, 200-year-old grandfather clock from a rural antiques store to our Birmingham hotel (albeit with one of us riding beside it in the back seat).
The Foresters carryover strut-type four-wheel independent suspension does a decent job of damping most under-wheel intrusions, except in the truck lanes of Alabamas freeways, which can test the mettle of any cars underpinnings. Under those circumstances, we found it best to move into the left lane and give the Forester the boot. Said maneuver demonstrated that the optional four-speed automatic is hard-pressed to make the most of the engines modest torque. Go for the five-speed manual.
Side air bags, now protecting both head and chest rather than just chest, are newly standard, along with front-seatbelt pretensioners and active head restraints, and the uplevel XS model gets electronic brake-force distribution. Perhaps most interesting, though, is not what has been added but what has been taken away: weight. The Forester is about 90 pounds lighter than before, thanks to increased use of aluminum and a new welding technique for the body. Lighter is always better, whether youre flooring it at Talladega or cresting hills in Pacific Heights.
Monday, July 22, 2013
2006 Subaru Impreza Reviews Specs
Fast, fun, agile, mean, way too much torque. Very affordable when compared to competitors. None of those fancy gadgets and toys can be found here... go buy a loaded Acura TL or Mercedes if you need those distractions. This is a great vehicle for those who want to stray away from the automatics. If you are considered a "youthful" driver but need an adrenaline rush type car without high insurance rates... the WRX will work.You definitely get your moneys worth. Compare it to BMWs 3 series, a Mustang, and even Audis A4 with Quattro... youll realize what you have. This car was at the bottom of my list, but after driving it through corners and hitting 110mph in 4th gear, it was an automatic buy. If you want a car that has that "sleeper" look, then this is it. Another buying point: this car is pretty much a sports car but your insurance rate will not spike up... performance sedan with lots of rally safety features :) The TR trim with an added spoiler is all you need. Simple and mean... but nobody knows!
New for 2006
The 2006 Subaru Impreza gets new front end styling, bringing it in line with the new Subaru signature design, featuring a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company’s aircraft heritage, plus restyled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses. A new dual-stage Subaru Advanced Airbag System is standard on all 2006 Subaru Imprezas, and the 2.5i gets side airbags. Four different WRX trims are offered for 2006 with the addition of a less-expensive TR and a more luxurious WRX Limited. These, along with the WRX sedan get a slight upgrade to 230 horsepower, while the WRX STi continues with its 300 horsepower engine. STi uses a new mechanical limited slip center differential in place of the previous hydraulically controlled unit.
News
A redesigned Impreza is expected for the 2008 model year. Look for a concept preview at a major auto show in early 2007, with a possible introduction in the second or third quarter. New-model specifics should surface soon, so keep checking back with us.
Interior Design and Special Features
Though by no means a match for the cockpit of a Jetta, the Imprezas dash is modern enough in appearance, and the materials used are of good quality. For cargo, the wagons can hold 27.9 cubic feet of stuff, or 61.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
Safety
All Subaru Impreza models have standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Side airbags are standard on all models. In government crash testing, the Subaru Impreza earned four stars (out of five) for driver safety in frontal impacts and five stars for front-passenger safety. Five stars were awarded for front-seat side-impact safety. The IIHS named the Impreza a "Best Pick" in frontal-offset testing.
Powertrains and Performance
Powering all 2.5 i and Outback Sport models is a 2.5-liter, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that makes 173 horsepower. A more powerful engine can be found in the WRX sedan and wagon. This turbocharged 2.5-liter mill (also a flat four) kicks out an impressive 230 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is standard on all Imprezas.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The Subaru Impreza is available in sedan and wagon body styles and a wide array of trim levels. The 2.5 i sedan and wagon have 16-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, air conditioning, sport seats with height adjustment for the driver, a CD player, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and power windows, locks and mirrors. The Outback Sport wagon adds two-tone paint, heavy-duty suspension tuning and a bit more ground clearance, foglamps and cargo tie-downs. The Outback Sport Special Edition sedan and wagon build on these features with a premium audio system, in-dash CD changer, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather steering wheel and shifter, and a rear spoiler.
The high-performance Impreza WRX comes in three different versions: WRX TR, regular WRX and WRX Limited. The TR features a functional hood scoop, limited-slip rear differential, stiffer suspension, bigger brakes and unique wheels. The standard WRX adds STi ground effects, foglamps, aluminum pedal covers, automatic climate control, premium audio with CD changer and performance-design seats. The luxury-oriented Limited features leather seating, heated seats and mirrors, and a moonroof.
Road Test
One constant dating back to 1993 is the WRXs standing as an undercover authority figure. Any street racer making assumptions about this unassuming little sedan got his reward in the form of a dropped jaw and a crushed ego as its driver rocketed out of sight. Driving a WRX has always been the nonverbal way to say "You boys better gather up your VTECs, turbo Eclipses, and 5.0 Mustangs and move your little league over to some other park. This is a mans game now."
Turbocharging makes this possible. You may have seen turbos in your time, but how many of them crammed twice the pressure of the atmosphere into four little cylinders (via a Mitsubishi turbocharger, irony of ironies)? The mention of 227 horsepower doesnt blow minds like it did in 2002, but you dont think much about paper specs when youre out in the real world thrusting out of corners or past entire herds of cars, all while listening to that vivid roar exclusive to engines whose cylinders lie sideways. And admit it: 5.4 seconds to 60 is still fast.
For 2006, the power rushes in sooner and stronger now that the other Subarus have chosen to share their 2.5-liter engine block with the formerly 2.0-liter WRX. While bore and stroke both rise in tandem (92mm to 99.5; 75mm to 79), the three extra horsies (now 230 in all) find themselves overshadowed by the 18 additional pounds-feet of torque. The healthy new supply of 235 cures the weak-kneed feeling from its low-speed operations.
Putting all that power to the ground is never a problem when you channel them through all four wheels, which in this case also helps handling. Isnt handling this cars greater talent anyway? AWD exploits every last iota of grip from this years bigger P215/45R17 tires (though their all-season tread limits potential), and a rear end thats easy to slide around guarantees youll have a fun time trying. Steering that sends clear signals to your hands and has been sped up for quicker response this year are further points in the WRXs favor.
All this news might hint at a hyperkinetic no-compromises race car. Not so. Despite the rising sport quotient, the WRX never had much interest in your suffering. Aside from the occasional sharp snap or harsh landing, the WRXs quartet of struts eats up bumps in a manner nearly as civil as a normal Impreza. At 70 MPH, the new big engine spins at a reasonable 2,600 RPM and road noise is never a big deal, possibly thanks to this years noise reduction measures (underbody cover, more insulation in the carpet and headliner). Oddly, the one standout in the NVH department is wind noise that turns almost violent as 100 MPH draws near; blame the [functional] hood scoop and frameless doors for that one.
The WRXs potential is pretty down-to-Earth, too. Smooth steering, brake, and accelerator inputs promote quick man-machine bonding, and this editor enjoyed slamming the new "short-throw" shifter (still seems tall) through its gates. Unlike Mitsubishi did with its Lancer Evo, Subaru didnt spoil the stickshift experience with a recalcitrant clutch; the WRXs left pedal is gradual and forgiving. Another difference: its turbocharger isnt heard from as often due to its circa-3,500 RPM activation point (and because of higher natural torque, it doesnt need to be), which would explain how our WRXs very decent 24 MPG (mostly freeway) beat our smaller-engined Evo. (The flipside: Mitsubishis turbo is more fun to activate.) Finally, after failing to find Subarus mushy brake feel (new front and rear rotors are bigger by 0.1" and 1.0"), I gave up looking for a serious flaw in the WRX driving experience.
So it found me. There I am, cruise controlling my way down Interstate 5 at 80 MPH when my speed starts sagging and fluctuating between the 60s and 70s, shortly thereafter surging past the mid-80s. After a minute of this, I hit Cancel, take the helm, and all sanity is restored. But another minute passes and speed starts tapering off again, this time robbing me of all accelerative ability. I then perform two frantic lane changes to reach the shoulder, and on my unsteady descent to a stop I notice my check engine light present, my power steering absent. I think I recall some other dashboard lights, but my mind was focused on other matters. Like my mortality.
The WRX is as fun in person as it is in pixels. Just remember that in real life, there is no reset button.
Favorite Features
Seats -- great seats with good support; look good too. Engine -- very flexible, good power, decent fuel economy and its smooth as silk (cant even tell the engines running at idle).
Overall Review
other than road noise this car is absolutly amazing. turbo gives driver a boost in speed when required. handles like an absolute dream for the $32,000 price tag. the only other car in this price range that can rival the sti on speed and handling would be the mitsubishi evo. racing seats keep you in your seat when, only suggestion would be to come standard with a three point seatbelt harness.
2006 Lincoln LS Reviews Specs
In my opionion, this is the best car Lincoln has produced to date.The LS is a consistent performer in every major category, but it does not blow you away in any specific one. Ask yourself this, can you consider this a flaw. The 3.9 liter V-8 cranking out 290 horsepower is just as strong as the its corporate cousin 4.2 liter [Jaguar S-Type 4.2].The interior is full of leather and great looking wood, especially on the steering wheel. Everything you need is well within easy reach, including the air conditioner{passenger and driver temperature controls} and the sound system{6-disc cd changer with stereo controls}.
The LS comes with alot of standard features: leather interior, 6 disc changer. leather and wood steering wheel and gearshift,foglights, xenon headlights, key-fob{ allows to operate your windows with keypad-up and down} and host of other standard and optional equipment such as moonroof and a easily functional navigation system ,which i didnt opt for. To sum it up,great engine sound system, ride and handling for under $40,000.
Always looks good, handles well, well worth the money spent when considering other makes in class.
New for 2006
Lincoln LS shares a rear-wheel-drive platform with the British-built S-Type from Ford-subsidiary Jaguar, but differs in styling and equipment. Only a V8 Sport model returns for 2006. It comes with a 280-hp V8, 5-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability, ABS, and traction control. Front side airbags are also standard. Curtain side airbags are available, as is an antiskid system. Other options include heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seat, navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, and xenon headlamps. Lincoln now offers a smaller, less-expensive midsize sedan in the front-wheel-drive Zephyr. Production of the LS is scheduled to end during the 06 model year.
Interior Design and Special Features
Materials quality is not up to the level of import competitors, but real wood, faux titanium and chrome accents add some visual interest to the Lincoln LS cockpit. The leather upholstery is soft to the touch, and although the well-cushioned chairs provide excellent comfort during highway cruising, their lack of lateral support makes them unsuitable for more spirited driving. The backseat offers more room than most entry-level luxury sedans, as even 6-footers will find ample head-, leg- and foot room.
Safety
Traction control is standard across the line, while the AdvanceTrac stability control system is optional. The Lincolns four-wheel antilock disc brakes are equipped with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and BrakeAssist. Side airbags for front passengers are standard; full-length head-curtain airbags and rear parking sensors are optional. In NHTSA crash testing, the Lincoln LS scored five stars for protection of the driver in frontal impacts and four stars for front-passenger protection. Side-impact tests resulted in a four-star score for front-seat occupants and five stars for rear-seat passengers. In 40-mph frontal-offset crash testing by the IIHS, the LS received a "Good" rating (the best possible).
Powertrains and Performance
The sole powertrain is a 3.9-liter V8 that boasts 280 hp and 286 lb-ft of torque. This V8 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The midsize Lincoln LS sedan is available in one trim level: V8 Sport. A host of standard features are included, such as 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, auto-dimming mirrors and power seats with drivers memory. Various optional upgrades include a power moonroof, HID headlights, heated and cooled front seats, walnut burl wood trim, power-adjustable pedals and a DVD-based navigation system combined with a THX-certified six-CD audio system. Many of these options are bundled into the available Elite and Premium option packages.
Driving Impressions
Smooth and gutsy off the line, the V8 remains quiet while providing strong acceleration from almost any speed. The Lincolns handling is commendable considering its size, but as the turns get smaller, the LS begins to feel bigger. Out on the highway, the 2006 Lincoln LS plays the part of a touring sedan almost perfectly, offering both a smooth ride and secure handling. But as a sport sedan, its average at best.
Favorite Features
Smooth and responsive V-8 Power.THX/NAV Heated/Cooled Front Seats. Power Adjustable Steering Wheel and Auto Seat Exit.Heated Rear Seats.Wood Grain Interior Accents. Great Looks!
Overall Review
The 2006 Lincoln LS V8 is a worthy automobile in the elite and luxury market. It offers many options that rival makers only offer at a much higher price.
Car Reviews 2006 Dodge Viper
This is not just a sports car, its a dream car and it will prove it to you. want to know why ill tell you why because this viper holds over 500hp and over 500ft of torqe and tires are just fantastic.I know it cost money but it is worth it.believe me this viper will make it worth your while get one and be amazed and believe it!
New for 2006
The 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 convertible is joined by the all-new 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe. The Viper SRT10 Coupe debuts in Viper Blue with Stone White Stripes in contrast to the original Dodge Viper GTS Coupe that was blue with white stripes. The “Double Bubble” roof and bold rear styling with wraparound taillights are also reminiscent of the Viper GTS Coupe. The Viper SRT10 Convertible is available in Viper Red and Viper Black, and later in the year, a “Blue Mamba” edition will be offered with a special interior package that includes black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and shift knob accents.
News
A reliable Detroit source says Viper will skip the 07 model year, but will fill-in with tuned 06s packing 650 hp, maybe more. The tuning is the work of parent Mercedes UK-based McLaren Performance Group, which builds the exotic Mercedes SLR. Engineering is said to be all but complete, giving credence to a "super snake." No word on an introduction date, however. Aside from this prospect, Viper should see no basic change until Chrysler Group redesigns it again, which we dont see happening before 2010.
Interior
One thing the Viper doesnt lack for is interior room for two tall Americans and a little bit of stuff or luggage. On the convertible, there is a great deal more headroom than on the last folding-top Viper. The top goes up or down with one hand and latches easily. The 2006 Viper is almost a foot wider on the outside than the 2006 Corvette, but not all of that width translates into additional occupant space. Its not easy to get in or out of a Viper (or a Corvette, for that matter) with any grace, but once inside, theres plenty of comfort and lots to see.
The form-fitting tall bucket seats will hold your upper body in the corners very well, and the seat will bump up against the rear wall when extended all the way back, and thats it. No more rear travel or recline. If youre very tall, youll be more comfortable in the convertible. The floor pedals can be power-adjusted by a dashboard button through four inches of reach, a big improvement over the old manually adjustable pedals.
The new instruments and controls are canted to the left in the new car, toward the driver, and you can see all the faces in one quick left-to-right sweep of the eyes. The large tachometer sits directly in front of the driver, to its right a smaller 220-mph speedometer (but 190 is more like it). All of the switches and vents are easier to see and reach.
The throttle, brake and clutch pedals are closely spaced for heel-and-toe downshifting. A new feature is the dead pedal for your left foot, good for bracing in the corners at the race track or on your favorite country road. A returning feature is the use of acres of cheap plastic on the interior.
Safety
Safety equipment doesnt go beyond the basics on the Dodge Viper. There are no side airbags, nor is there traction or stability control. Massive four-wheel antilock disc brakes assure rapid stops and a passenger-side airbag cutoff switch makes it feasible for small children to ride along in a pinch.
Powertrains and Performance
An 8.3-liter (505-cubic-inch) V10 engine sports heroic output numbers: 510 horsepower and 535 pound-feet of torque. The power is transferred to the fat rear tires via a Tremec six-speed manual transmission and a standard limited-slip differential. Its performance numbers are equally impressive, as the Dodge Viper is able to reach 60 mph in just 4 seconds and run the quarter-mile is 12 seconds flat.
Driving Impressions
The 2006 Dodge Viper is one of the fastest production cars in the world. Its 510-horsepower V10 pushes it to triple-digit speeds in the blink of an eye and it doesnt stop there. Massive rear tires make fast starts easier than you might think, although the shifter is a bit awkward so concentration is required to hit the gates just right. Pushing this Dodge car to the limit still requires the skill of a seasoned driver, but even rookie pilots will admire the cars unbelievable abilities. Ultraquick steering, racing-style seats and powerful Brembo brakes add to the racecarlike feel. Its not comfortable enough to be used as an everyday driver, but for those who can afford to have it on the side, the Dodge Viper is a supercar that answers to nothing.
2006 Dodge Viper Summary
The 2006 Dodge Viper is a 2-door, 2-passenger sports car, or convertible sports car, available in two trims, the SRT-10 Convertible and the SRT-10 Coupe.
Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 8.3-liter, V10, 510-horsepower engine that achieves 12-mpg in the city and 20-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.
The 2006 SRT-10 Convertible is a carryover from 2005. The SRT-10 Coupe has been redesigned for 2006.
Favorite Features
Power, power, power. Oh yeah, the seats are probably the most supportive racing seats Ive ever experienced.
Overall Review
If you are looking to win as many circuit races as possible a new Z06 or Porsche 911 is your ticket; though this car seems to hold its own. However, if tearing down highways and gobbling up country roads and stomping punk kids in their Camaros and Cobras on the highway while turning heads everywhere you go is your thing, the SRT-10 delivers big. Ive driven plenty of cars, many of which I couldnt dream of affording or insuring for that matter, and I have the say the SRT-10 is probably the most fun Ive ever had.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
New Cars 2006 Mercury Milan Reviews
Pros: I love pretty much everything about this vehicle! The styling is fresh, hip & unique. The Milan has a great foreign flair! The Milan is extremely comfortable to drive and the interior looks very expensive.The V6 engine has amazing, effortless pickup and gets awesome gas mileage! The interior cabin is air tight and there is no road noise. This car is an amazing value. Mercury should have come out with something like this years ago! This car is not as bulky as the old Sable and it is alot more attractive.
Cons: A Sirius satellite radio option would be a great addition. Rear visiblity for some may be difficult due to the high rear decklid, so a rear backup assist warning feature might be helfpful. For some reason, the Merc engineers forgot to include a glovebox light, a strange omission given the otherwise high standard equipment level on this car.
New for 2006
The all-new 2006 Mercury Milan is powered by either a 160-hp Duratec 23 inline 4-cylinder with a 5-speed manual or automatic, or a 221-hp Duratec 30 V6 combined with a six-speed automatic. The chassis is tuned to be nimble and responsive with precise steering while providing a quiet interior and ride comfort under a variety of road conditions.
Interior Design and Special Features
The Milans upscale interior offers an effective blend of premium materials and functional design elements. The interior is supposed to reflect the high-quality living environments of todays young professionals. Upscale Milans feature leather seating surfaces with contrasting stitching, and a Wales Mahogany wood finish or Satin Metallic trim can be ordered on Premium models. Base and optional audio systems are MP3-capable, and the split-folding rear seat, along with a 15.6-cubic-foot trunk, adds to the Milans utility. Most buyers will find the Mercury Milan suitably roomy with ample head-, shoulder and legroom for adults to ride comfortably in the front or back.
Safety
Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all Milans. Antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution are optional on base Milans and standard on the Premium trim, and traction control can be had on V6 models. Stability control is not available. An optional Safety and Security package gives the Milan front-seat side airbags and head-protecting side curtain airbags for all outboard occupants. Without the side bags, the Mercury Milan scored four stars (out of five) in NHTSA frontal- and side-impact (front and rear) testing. With the side bags, the scores were the same, save for side impact for front passengers, in which it earned five stars. In frontal offset crash testing conducted by the IIHS, the Milan scored "Acceptable," the second-highest rating.
Powertrains and Performance
The Milans base 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine makes 160 horsepower and meets PZEV certification in California. Its connected to a standard five-speed manual transmission, and a five-speed automatic is optional. A 221-hp, 3.0-liter V6 is optional on both the base and Premier trims. It comes with one transmission, a six-speed automatic. This transmission shifts well enough, but we wish it had a true manual-shift mode instead of just two forward-gear gates ("D" and "L").
Driving Impressions
The Mercury Milan Premiers 221-horsepower V6 engine and Japanese Aisin six-speed automatic transmission give the driver the kind of power we all like when it comes to getting across the intersection or getting out of a tight spot, but theres not a lot of reserve after that, and theres not a lot of satisfaction in driving it hard.
The engine feels a bit choked and a bit underpowered, and doesnt sound like a powerful engine when prodded. A full-throttle kickdown maneuver will also get the front end to pitch, too quickly and too high for our taste, leaving the front tires scrambling for traction and direction for an annoying split second.
We found the steering to have a fairly hefty feel and effort at the wheel, but it was a bit too disconnected from the road surface for our taste, a minimum-effort, minimum-feel tuning, but most people will probably not notice much difference either way. High-speed handling showed predictable, normal and usual levels of understeer.
The ride, over the universally awful streets of Detroit, was quite good, with lots of compliance to soak up bumps, not too much body roll, and quiet, smooth operation.
The brakes, on the other hand, were strong and direct, without a lot of wasted pedal travel before deceleration starts to happen, and low effort-to-stop ratio.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The midsize Mercury Milan sedan comes in two trim levels, base and Premier. The base model rides on 16-inch wheels and includes items like air conditioning, an MP3-compatible CD stereo with six speakers, a six-way power driver seat, a split-folding rear seat, an analog clock, cruise control, full power accessories and keyless entry. Options include alloy wheels, a sunroof, an upgraded eight-speaker stereo and in-dash CD changer. Premier models are upgraded with 17-inch aluminum wheels, a CD changer and leather seating. In addition to the options on the base Milan, Premier models are eligible for heated front seats, as well as a Comfort Package with automatic climate control, automatic headlights, foglamps and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Large Trunk
The long, deep trunk has a low, wide opening. Its lid pops up well out of the way on hydraulic struts, but theres no grip or strap to help close it without getting hands dirty on the outside metal. The split rear seatbacks fold forward and sit moderately flat to enlarge the cargo area. The heavy hood is held open by only a prop rod, but fluid filler areas in the engine compartment are easily reached without getting clothes dirty. Lots of people havent put midsize American cars on their shopping list because autos such as the Milan havent been offered. Now that its here, lets see how well it does.
Overall Review:
Great car for anyone looking for an automobile that is affordable, reliable and fun to drive.
New Cars 2006 Infiniti G35 Reviews Specs
There are many good cars out there like the Acura Tl (great looks, loads of standard advanced technological items, value champ and the best navigation ever), bmw 3 series (sweetest handling & safety) , lexus gs( gushing luxury,supreme quality & reliability) & audi (fit & finish) etc. Each has their own unique fit. Each has their short commings also if you do your own research.If practicality & value with quality, then Acura is top all around champ.
I did not get this car only because it was not rear wheel drive otherwise it would be the clear winner based on numerous factors. I take my hat off especially to Acura for it technology and value. Try them all and get the one that fit your personality. Infiniti G35 fits my bill, go get what fits you and live it up!
60,000 miles and only needed oil changes. Perfect in zero defect performance. No cost other than regular maintenance.
New for 2006
The 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe adds new bi-xenon headlights, revised taillights and available Rear Active Steer. The Premium Package offers available Intelligent Key and Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone system. Coupe Sport Package changes include a unique front fascia, side sills, and a revised optional rear spoiler. The G35 Sedan adds Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System and optional satellite radio to the Premium Package.
Interior Design and Special Features
Thanks to a long wheelbase, the Infiniti G35 offers a spacious cabin. The sedans passenger compartment has ample amounts of front and rear headroom, legroom and shoulder room. The sport coupe is also roomy in front; those seated in back will find adequate legroom, but the sloping rear glass limits the available headroom for adults. Materials quality is solid but unimpressive compared to what youll find in an Audi or BMW. The sedan offers 14.5 cubic feet of trunk capacity, while the coupes cargo area holds just 7.8 cubes.
The Audio System
Once your course is clear, fire up the premium Bose audio system, a worthwhile upgrade from stock audio but only as part of a $3,500 premium package that includes those reclining seats, moonroof, rear AC vents, garage door controller – and the seven speakers and six-disc slot load changer that handles regular, MP3, and WMA CDs. If its satellite radio you want, Infiniti lets you add (at the dealer) either XM or Sirius for $350, which is both a) high for satellite radio if youve priced $100 dashboard add-ons (such as Delphis Roady XT), but b) not bad for automaker-provided satellite radio. Some competitors charge $500 to $800 only to offer XM or Sirius, not both, and they do it with a straight face.
The Navigation System
The DVD-based navigation system from Xanavi, a joint venture between Hitachi and Infiniti parent company Nissan, using Navteq mapping data, will lighten your wallet by $1,800 but is a solid system. Xanavi has just about perfected the birds-eye view motif, which shows nearby streets on a close-up scale and distant roads (and towns) on a zoomed-out scale. Its on a pop-up 7-inch color display, controlled by 12 buttons and a cupped pointing stick that was a bit wobbly for our tastes. Once you start moving, it goes into nanny mode and wont let you – not even a passenger – enter a new address unless its already in memory. Some of the touchscreen Denso-based systems, such as Lexus uses, are a bit easier, particularly the prominent Home button that maps a course to hearth and home.
Safety
All G35s come standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and BrakeAssist, torso-protecting side airbags and head-protecting side curtain airbags. A stability control system is also standard. In frontal offset crash testing conducted by the IIHS, the Infiniti G35 earned the top score of "Good."
Powertrains and Performance
Though the Infiniti G35 comes with just one engine, it should satisfy all but the most power-hungry drivers. This smooth-revving 3.5-liter V6 makes 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque when hitched to the five-speed automatic transmission. Models equipped with the six-speed manual transmission get a 298-hp and 260 lb-ft version of this engine. The G35 is rear-drive, but automatic-equipped G35 sedans are eligible for an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system.
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The Infiniti G35 is available in coupe or sedan form. The sedan is available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. There are no trim levels to choose between, and all G35s come with features like 17-inch wheels, HID headlights, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat and four-way passenger seat, seat heaters and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. Two major option packages available for the Infiniti car: Premium and Sport. The Premium Package adds items like dual-zone climate control with rear vents, an upgraded 225-watt Bose sound system, a sunroof, automatic headlights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Sport Package adds a sport-tuned suspension, bigger wheels and tires, a limited-slip rear differential and, on G35 coupes, special exterior aero pieces. G35s equipped with a manual transmission receive the Sport package as standard equipment. Stand-alone options include a navigation system, wood interior trim and an active rear-steer system (coupes only).
Road Test
The G35 is everything the G20, M30, J30, and I35 wish they could have been. Its got the agility of the first, the powertrain layout of the second and third, and even more power than the last, all rolled into one. Like each of those, its also got the essential harmony between the mechanicals that elevate the car as a whole beyond its shiny specs sheet.
But since power alone is probably responsible for drawing in half the G35s crowd, lets start there. The G35 uses Nissans omnipresent 3.5-liter V6, a proven piece of big-bore, high-tech, variable-valve-timed aluminum whose initial competition-crushing figure of 260 horses has already been kicked up to 280. Everyone else recently started scurrying to catch up - the G35 now trails a 306-HP Lexus - but its hard to imagine anyones needs not being met by this engines prompt service off-the-line, through the midrange, or at the high end.
Just to illustrate the level of flexibility here, most cars shift down a gear or two when asked to maintain a 70 MPH cruise up an incline. The G35 can run all the way to 100 while locked in fifth. And you can lock it thanks to the segments best automatic transmission - one that shifts quickly and quietly, grants total control in manual mode, and has the unique ace-up-the-sleeve feature of pre-revving the engine on downshifts for smoother engagements.
Such power allows more creativity in the handling since the G35 lays it down the proper way: by pushing, not pulling. Well, our all-wheel-drive "G35x" actually does both, sending 3/4ths of the power to the back wheels and the rest forward. That can slide by up to 1/4th in either direction - 0/100 when cruising to save gas, 50/50 when its slippery underfoot - and can also be locked in 50/50 by pressing the "Snow" button (which has the side-effect of slowing down throttle response). AWD lets the G35 walk straight in the rain and nearly immunizes it from power oversteer. (It still fishtails rather suddenly when the brakes are stabbed, however.) A downside is how the extra front weight and workload cause the front tires to give up sooner, but the power bias maintains most of the G35s rear-wheel-drive feel and able handling.
Infiniti left out no details while imbuing the G35 with sports sedan character. Those brakes speak for themselves: stopping in 110 feet from 60 MPH (in a rear-drive car with 18-inch wheels, the optimal sample) is one neck-snappingly short distance, especially for a machine of this bulk. And at 3,650 pounds, the G35x really isnt bulky for its size thanks to the aluminum engine, suspension, and hood. The quick-response steering and firm all-multilink suspension make it feel alive, and while this Infiniti doesnt meet the BMW standard of road feel, its nice to see a Japanese car with some heft in the helm.
The G35s average 21 MPG is put to good use by an above-average 20-gallon tank. If you ignore the paranoid low-fuel light that sounds the alarm five gallons early (just like in Nissans own Maxima), you can burn through 400 miles on all-freeway runs.
Finally, comfort is kept in check. The G35s firmer-than-expected shocks make for a somewhat rocky ride at times (especially at the lowest speeds), but they still shave the sharp edges off all bumps. The tires are also too audible on cruddy streets, but aside from them and the intentionally vocal engine (which you want to hear), its quiet.
If the G35 sounds like it can do it all, it pretty much can. But Infinitis quest for liveliness led to a few instances of hyperactivity. Turn the steering wheel and the car immediately darts in response. Touch the brakes and the big initial bite lurches you forward. Tap the gas and you lurch right backward, due in part to the transmissions tendency to downshift when youre not looking.
(When using cruise control, it also downshifts to fulfill even modest acceleration requests.) This particular chauffeur quickly grew tired of sarcastic passenger complaints like "youre gonna snap our necks" and "there are other people in this car, you know." And take it from a former Nissan 200SX owner that grabby brakes quickly lead to a long-term leg-ache if your commute resembles the average Americans: 20 miles of freeway at 2 MPH in stop-and-go traffic. Does anyone remember the early 90s, back when Infinitis had the most phenomenally perfect steering and pedals in the world?
The multi-talented G35 has learned every trick in the book. It could learn some manners.
Overall Review
Infiniti did a nice job of combining sportiness and luxury in one package. I forgot how much fun driving could be until I got the G35 coupe. If you look at the whole package its hard to beat the value considering IMHO, its one of the best looking coupes, excellent build quality, great handling and performance makes for a fun car to drive..........WHAT ELSE CAN I SAY OTHER THAN IM LOVIN IT.
MSRP Price Range $31,200 - $33,800
Invoice Price Range $28,701 - $31,084
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