Talipa2012: Low Fuel Consumption News

2013 Dodge Dart: First Drive

"Aerodramatic" is what exterior design Jeff Gale called the look of the 2013 Dodge Dart. With a low-slung front end, glaring hooded projector lamp headlights, and taillights that scream Charger the Dart is a unique machine in the Compact car segment.

Chrysler was kind enough to fly me out to beautiful Austin, TX with other Social Media influencers to get a first hand look into a car that I personally am very excited about. This car is exciting because it is the first merger of Italian and American technology in a single package. It also excited me because it is a car that promises fun without sacrificing fuel economy. 

Austin was the perfect venue for this event because Dodge stressed that this was a car for Millennials. As someone who is a part of that generation I have already fallen in love with Austin. The town offers amazing food and culture that reminds me of my current home of Bloomington, Ind. on steroids.

I pounced on the first Dart I could find that held the 1.4L turbocharged Multiair engine. This is the engine of choice for this vehicle and offers the best horsepower to fuel economy ratio. Fuel economy is extremely important, but I also want a vehicle that handles well and is a joy to drive. This is what I hoped for as I set out for a 160 mile journey across the Texas landscape.

The 1.4 liter engine is very unique. Normally the compact class can be seen for some as a "penalty box" or "appliances", but this engine is from another world. On initial startup the car greets you with a throaty burble. Of course this is mostly from the careful design of the exhaust system but it gives a sense of unexpected character to a car designed for big sales numbers. 

Another surprise for this segment is the standard six-speed manual. The automatic in other models seems like an after thought.

Dodge is dedicated to selling cars with manual gearboxes and their upcoming dual dry clutch transmission (DDCT). The transmission leans towards the side of being friendly for daily driving and first time manual buyers. The throw is light and a bit long, but very easy to find the right gear. The clutch is on the heavy side which is a bit of a plus because it feels like you are moving something not the feather light clutches of late. 

 

Dodge interiors in the last few years have been sub-par compared to the rest of the competition. As much as Dodge wouldn't want to admit it the last few years have been rough on fans of the Pentastar. 

 

The Dart brings Dodge back into the competitive realm. There is a good ratio of soft-touch materials on the upper dash to the lesser quality plastic on the bottom half. The only downside is that the climate control buttons feel a bit flimsy and low quality. The upside is they are auxiliary to the touch control built into the massive and lightning fast 8.4 inch touch screen that comes with an optional uConnect system. Another great feature of the interior is a storage compartment beneath the passenger seat that would be very useful for someone like me. 

 

Unlike the SE and SXT trim levels Dodge offers a TFT (thin-film-transistor) heads up display that I found extremely helpful when trying to eek out the best possible fuel economy. The display offers a wealth of information such as exact engine temp, instant and average fuel economy and navigational data. Features like this are going to be very important to millenials who don't want their car stuck with 20 Th. century technology. This is a must have accessory on my list.

The EPA has said that the Dart is a midsize car, but their focus is to market and price this car as a compact car. Like all the American compacts the Dart feels well planted with minimal body roll through the turns. It is obvious that the car has been tuned to handle the 184 horsepower Multiair engine that is coming in the third quarter of this year. The 1.4 liter turbo is perfect because you can reach the limits without feeling like you are the limit of grip.

 Hidden under the performance is an extremely efficient power-train. I certainly didn't drive the Dart like Travis Pastrana does in the Rallycross Dart. Instead I focused on driving the Dart how I normally drive everyday. Even driving the Dart more aggressively than normal it returned 35 miles per gallon. Though not as engaging the volume 2.0 liter Tigershark engine was able to return 39 miles per gallon on the highway. This is three more than the estimated 36 that Dodge expects. Now it is very true that I don't drive like the average person, but simple light-footed driving will result in excellent fuel economy no matter what power-train you choose.

My only gripe about the power-train is the 2.0-liter Tigershark engine and the lackluster six-speed automatic transmission bolted onto it. Blame it on preproduction or maybe just a bad transmission but the 6-speed automatic was dreadful for a modern transmission. The transmission was unresponsive on initial takeoff with a sudden jolt as the torque converter locked up. Geared for fuel economy the transmission kept the engine revving low and slow. This resulted in a lot of low speed thrum and vibration I found unacceptable in modern compact car.

Unfortunately there were no 2.4 liter Multiair equipped R/T's available to drive. I imagine that this will be a decent engine. It will produce 184 horsepower which is twenty-four more than the 1.4 liter engine. This engine doesn't really fit with what I think the Dart should be though. Why offer a fun to drive engine with a lot of potential power left untapped as a mid-model engine. Stepping up from a very pleasing turbo engine to a bored out naturally-aspirated four cylinder seems like a waste to me. 

Versatility and a duality of spirit are what set the Dodge Dart apart. I wouldn't say that it is a great or perfect car though. There are too many things that have to be compromised to keep the price point competitive. The only issue is that it needs to focus the money on controls such as air conditions that are going to be touched a lot and need to feel and be durable. 

Customers who decide to buy a SXT, Rallye, Limited, or R/T are going to get a good car. One that offers up some shortcomings, but makes up for it with a bit of excitement and drama that you don't find in the compact class. Those who opt for the 2.0 liter will find a car that is basic transportation and nothing else. The 2.0 liter engine exists to get buyers who otherwise couldn't afford a Dart to buy one plain and simple.

After spending all day with the Dart I can say that I would like to own one. It offers some intriguing technology with an excellent power-train that ticks both boxes for me; One in the fun department and the other for fuel economy. This car should sell very well, it is priced competitively and offers a good value for someone looking for a good small car. Dodge needs a small car that can compete with the likes of Focus and Elantra. 

Compact car buyers really need to put this car on their list. For the enthusiast looking for power and enjoyment there are the Rallye and the R/T. The bargain hunter can find a good deal with the SE and the SXT that offer value without a lot of compromises. For those of us like me who look for maturity and a sense of class there is the Limited. 

If you're in the market for a compact car its worth your time to take a drive in the new Dart. If you don't you're missing out on one of the best compact cars in America. 

Photos Courtesy of: Chrysler Group, LLC.

Disclaimer: Travel, Lodging and Vehicles provided by Chrysler Group, LLC.

7500 Miles in the 2012 Hyundai Accent

For six months now I have been the proud owner of a 2012 Hyundai Accent sedan. Recently the odometer ticked over to 7500 miles. I think I've spent enough time in the drivers seat to really understand everything my new car has to offer.

I've driven the Accent in perfect weather, and in snow storms. I've even spent hours behind the wheel on the mind numbing trip from my current home of Bloomington, Ind. to my childhood hometown of Elkhart, Ind. Times like these gave me ample time to really ponder what I like about the Accent and those things that I just wished were different.

As a daily driver the 2012 Hyundai Accent is a strong package. An advanced powertrain is one of the most important things I look for in a car. The 1.6L gasoline direct injected engine is an excellent engine. The Gamma 1.6 is not an extremely powerful engine, but it is smooth, composed, and quiet. One of my favorite things about it is the subtle confident tick-tick-tick of the high-pressure fuel pump. I enjoy it so much that I sometimes sit there and listen.

With such an excellent engine I was hoping that the Accent would be a bit tighter dynamically. The Accent is excellent around time with quick and light steering, but at higher speeds my confidence dwindles. Subcompacts aren't known for their blistering speed, but I really want a small smile to creep across my face everytime I get a chance to push the limits a bit.

What is really surprising about driving the Accent is just how well it handles on the highway. Unlike subcompacts in the past where I'd be exhausted after just a hundred miles I find it relaxing to drive Accent for hours on end. Comfortable seats and a well sorted chassis that absorbs road imperfections with aplomp makes the Accent great for long trips. An excellent 6-speed automatic transmission makes it easy to merge onto highways but keeps engine noise to a minimum even at relatively quick highway speeds.

Sweetening the deal is the fact that I consistently average fuel economy in the mid 40's which makes it the most affordable car I have ever owned. Over the last six months from very detailed records I've averaged 33.2 miles per gallon. I appreciate the Active Eco feature that Hyundai has developed. Instead of a simple light that made you aware you were driving "ECOnomically" this feature truly changes how the engine and transmission work. This feature is especially important on flat roads because it easily has added 2-5 miles per gallon to my in town averages. Sadly it deadens throttle response and has trouble dealing with the hilly terrain here in Bloomington. 

Everything isn't perfect in the Accent though there are still some features that I think are missing especially when other vehicles in the class have them. While certainly not a big deal the lack of a telescoping steering wheel has made it difficult me to find the perfect driving position. I really think even a subcompact desperately needs this simple luxury. While comfortable for two people which is perfect for my Fiancé and I, but passengers in the rear seat find it difficult to fit in the back especially when I am in my driving position. I'm a little over 6 feet tall for a reference.

Lack of low end torque makes me work the engine harder than I would like here in hilly Bloomington. A little more torque placed lower in the torque band would let me climb hills in a lower gear. I'm a certified fuel economy junkie and even if its one or two miles per gallon more per tank it means less fuel used and less pollution emitted.

The last six months has been such a change going from a 200,000 miles Volkswagen Jetta to a brand new Hyundai Accent. I'm very grateful to have a car that I can break in, and take care of from the very beginning. The car has been excellent for my lifestyle because I love to travel and drive, but being a college student I am always on a budget. Compared to the competition the Accent has a grown up feel that I appreciate. Unlike cars like the Mazda2 and the Ford Fiesta I wouldn't feel silly pulling up to an event in the Accent. It is a subcompact for young professionals like me who are just starting to build a reputation. I need a car that can take me there for less but I still want to enjoy it.

The Accent gives me the best of both worlds, while not a perfect car its cheap to own, cheap to maintain, yet gives me the driving experience of a larger car in a small compact package. No one would call the Accent sporty but it is confident enough to keep me amused behind the wheel. In an extremely competitive subcompact market I think I made the right choice.

Nissan reveals new 2.5L Supercharged Hybrid Engine

In Japan today Nissan released new details about a replacement for their 3.5L V6 currently found in upper trim Nissan Altima's. Instead of going the path many automakers have taken of updating the current engine with Gasoline Direct Injection, Variable Cam timing, or adding a turbo Nissan has created a completely new engine.

This engine now has 4 cylinders, a displacement of 2.5L, a small electric motor and compact lithium-ion battery pack, AND a twin screw supercharger. Nissan engineers are claiming that this will allow the engine to produce power comparable to the 3.5L 260 horsepower and 250 pound-feet engine. 

Nissan engineers are also making the claim that the power and torque curves of this engine have been made to mimic that of the larger V6 it is replacing. 

Power will be transfered to the rear wheels with Nissan's latest generation CVT transmission that has not debuted yet. All of this combined Nissan engineers say to expect similar performance to the V6 while achieving "10-percent better fuel economy."

My Take:

This new engine seems to be another waste of hybrid technology. Customers who opt for a V6 in a family sedan are typically not looking for efficiency but because they want a powerful sedan. This is why I believe that the supercharger makes perfect sense for the Altima. An increase in 10-percent is very marginal when you consider the current 3.5L has an EPA rating of 20 city/27 highway miles per gallon. I think Nissan missed the point for this segment. In one fell swoop Nissan has alienated V6 customers and hybrid customers simultaneously. 

 

[Source: Auto Blog]

Hyundai: Helping through Social Meda

Saturday November 14th I was driving to meet my brother in Ft. Wayne Indiana in my 2012 Hyundai Accent. When I arrived in Ft. Wayne I heard a grinding noise coming from the front passenger side wheel well. I immediately pulled over to inspect what I thought was something caught underneath my car. What I found was a piece of the aerodynamic underbody shielding had come loose and was dragging on the ground.

My Accent currently has about 3000 miles on it so my frustration level was quite high at this point especially since it happened on a road trip. I can be a bit obsessive about my car as my Fiancé Katelyn can attest to. Cooler heads prevailed and I tucked it back under the fender and moved on.

This certainly didn't stop me from tweeting about it (in the gallery you can see what I said). I knew the car was still under warranty so I hoped that it could be fixed. To some I know this sounds like a minor inconvenience but it's a brand new car and I want to keep it as perfect as possible.

This happened on a weekend and understanding how Social Media usually goes I knew I'd have to wait till Monday for any type of response. To my surprise though the CEO of Hyundai North America John Krafick direct messaged me on Sunday (see gallery) asking me what I thought happened. On Monday I received the info on how to contact Hyundai Customer Care. 

Word was sent to the Central Region Customer Car and on Tuesday I received a call asking me who my local Hyundai dealership was. Hyundai then contacted the dealership and explained the situation to them. That afternoon I stopped in and had them throw the Accent on the lift and parts were ordered. This Friday I will take the Accent in and have the new part installed with no cost to me.

What happened here is a perfect example of how to use Social Media effectively to reach out to customers. Detecting a problem and handling it in a timely manner is key today to brand loyalty. Someone who uses Social Media as heavily as I do can truly appreciate this. Within a couple day I went from very frustrated to extremely pleased with how well Hyundai has handled this. I will continue to be extremely happy with my 2012 Hyundai Accent. 

2012 Buick Lacrosse eAssist: First Drive

I've been on a bit of a Buick binge lately. Buick is one of the fastest growing brands in America right now and as I learned during this last press event that currently 50% of Buick sales are conquest sales. This being where someone who currently owns say an Acura decides to trade in that Acura and get a Buick. The bit of tech that General Motors calls eAssist™ is set to expand the consumer appeal of the Buick brand with a bit of tech cred as well as a few brownie points for Eco-consciousness. I had a chance to take a 35 minute spin in the 2012 Buick Lacrosse eAssist during my stint with the Buick Regal GS. This was a welcome surprise because as you can see my blog is all about low fuel consumption and a 2+ ton sedan getting 36 mpg on the highway is certainly something to write about!

From outward appearances there is nothing to really denote that this is different than your typical Lacrosse than the badges. This isn't necessarily a bad thing especially if you're someone who want a bit of electrification without jumping into like the Prius which has a certain look to it that some people don't like. The interior is very similar to the previous generation yet this new model will have the new Intelilink™ system that was very impressive in the 2012 Buick Regal GS. One thing that consumers will notice is that this eAssist model has more data available to the drive about where power is coming from, and where that power is being distributed to. This is a great feature for drivers looking to be as frugal as possible. Data about fuel economy, the status of the battery, knowing when the electric motor is engaging are all good things to know that better teach you to use the least amount of fuel. 

Instead of using a complex mounting system that bolts an electric motor to the drive train in the eAssist the 15kW motor/generator is actually in the place of the alternator on the traditional architecture of the 2.4L GDI engine in the current Lacrosse. The electric engine adds the equivalent of 15 hp to the engine at any point in time. In terms of traditional automotive term this is more like an electric supercharger. One of the advantages of this is the fact that there is no lag what-so-ever. This electric motor is cooled through a secondary coolant loop that helps maintain peak efficiency under all driving conditions. 

Specific to the Lacrosse eAssist is an aggressive fuel cut-off system that when combined with the electric motor allows for a start/stop system that is smooth seamless and even works during hot weather with the ecoAC setting. This start/stop systems works excellent and certainly fits into the Buick ideal of "Refined Performance" It is very relaxing to come to a complete stop and be sitting in traffic encased in wonderful silence. Releasing the brake instantly re-fires the gasoline engine and you're off once again. Even though the EPA doesn't take into account start/stop I really do think drivers will see a noticeable difference in their city fuel economy. Complimenting the electric motors and powertrain are active shutters that close at high speeds to decrease aerodynamic drag when less cooling is needed for the engine. This function also has an ice mode that will actually help bring the Lacrosse up to temp quicker for those of us who live in a winter environment.

Driving the Lacrosse is excellent it is silky smooth and the added electric motor means it doesn't feel like the 4-cylinder is struggling to keep up with the mass of the vehicle. It is certainly not an overly athletic car but handling is superb for such a large vehicle and it gives decent road feel through the leather wrapped steering wheel. Understeer is the name of the game though when it comes to pushing the Lacrosse hard but this certainly isn't the point of the Lacrosse. The suspension is very supple but it is well damped so there is no bounciness just an extremely relaxing drive. I'm a big fan of the HUD though I would like a more detailed read out with better graphics, etc. The HUD keeps your eyes on the road while giving you all your pertinent information. I was happy to see the Lacrosse also had blind spot awareness.In such a large car with a rising belt line a feature like this certainly lessens the anxiety of heavy traffic lane change maneuvers. 

Overall the Buick Lacrosse eAssist is a great compromise between a full hybrid and a conventional ICE powertrain. How this vehicle is geared and what the electric motor is meant to do the Lacrosse is an ideal highway cruiser. This added to an outrageously comfortable interior the Buick Lacrosse eAssist is an excellent choice for those who love to drive and love to drive far. With the fuel economy that the eAssist system coupled with the ease that it conquers highway driving the Buick Lacrosse eAssist at first glance is a full size sedan you can drive everyday and enjoy a weekend excursion whenever the urge hits you.

2012 Buick Regal GS: A Journey to Traverse City, Michigan

Buick and sports performance are something that hasn’t gone together for quite some time. Sure GS badges, etc. were thrown on the side and a powerful engine was thrown in but the total package of a sports sedan has not been in the Buick repertoire. Now with the upcoming 2012 Buick Regal GS they have touched on something that actually pushed the right buttons when it comes to driving enjoyment.

Recently I was able to travel to Traverse City Michigan for a pre-production screening of the new 270hp Buick Regal GS. This region of Michigan is filled with twisty country roads as well as scenic lakefront vistas that create  a perfect backdrop for the Regal. It was very easy to find hours of driving enjoyment here and was a great way to test out everything the Buick Regal has to offer including its interactive driver control, high output Ecotec Turbocharged engine, 6-speed manual transmission and driver orientated cabin.

Setting the Buick Regal GS apart from the exterior of the standard Regal was accomplished by adding distinctive satin finish front air intakes, distinctive rocker panels, a lip mounted rear spoiler and 20-inch 5 dual spoke rims running Pirelli summer only tires.  All of this gives the Regal GS a much different aura about it than standard Regals. It has more aggressive lines and stance. The Regal is not contentious and Buick engineers are focusing on Refined Performance rather than all out performance figures.  No chrome Is present instead replaced with all brushed and polished Aluminum that add a real premium touch to the GS.

The interior is very similar to your everyday Regal you find on the road today bit with some important differences that make a minor aesthetic change into major functional changes. The Regal GS features a unique flat-bottomed perforated leather wrapped steering wheel that tops the list on some of my favorite steering wheels. It is large, meaty, offers great road feel and instills confidence even under heavy load. New for the 2012 Regal GS is the Intellilink ™ infotainment center that strives to better engage the driver with the technology available without overly distracting from the driving input.  The systems is much more efficient than the current system, it offers touch capability, much better voice recognition, and the ability to to integrate programs such as Pandora to allow for a more connected feel even on the go.  I wasn’t able to really test the system and I imagine with something this complex that bugs will be present in the early editions of this but I am told that owners will be able to upload software updates from a USB flash drive as they become available.

Driving the Regal GS was quite a pleasure especially in a location as majestic as Traverse City, Michigan. Situated in far northwestern Michigan this small quaint town has grown into a bustling tourist location for many Michiganders, but if you venture out past all the hotels and shops you find an area ripe with great twisting roads and awesome lake front vistas that are a perfect compliment to the Regal GS. With a small population of locals it is easy to find yourself alone on the road and here is where the GS shines. The 270 hp 295 lb.../ft 2.0L EcoTec engine is one of the most SAE certified power dense engines that GM has ever produced. This attached to the new HiPer strut technology and huge 20-inch wheels equals quite an agile and athletic car. Straight-line speed is impressive but certainly isn’t the main point of this vehicle. A broad torque curve allows for less gearshifts and more torque on tap as you power out of the numerous turns in the Traverse City countryside.  Heavy use of the throttle elicits a pleasing turbo spooling sound and engine rumble, but with a focus on refined performance there really isn’t much of a throaty aggressive exhaust note that I expected from something this powerful.

Steering feel comes through a wonderful perforated leather wrapped flat bottom steering wheel that is a joy to use. It is a great compliment to the loads of grip on tap from the 20-inch wheels. Road feel is direct and there is a good sense of on-center directness that equals to quite a bit of confidence on the road. Supplementing all of this is an interactive drive control that has three setting; comfort, sport, and GS. Each mode equals to about a 20% increase in overall suspension stiffness that is accomplished through an infinitely variable bypass valve within the strut body.  For those looking for hardcore performance GS mode is the weapon of choice. Offering the greatest level of stiffness it also increases the relative weight felt through the steering column.  But unlike performance sedans in the past that had to sacrifice ride quality in the search of more grip, the other settings loosen up the suspension and it becomes suppler when the road becomes less curvaceous.

This was my first time in Traverse City, Michigan and I have to say it was a perfect location to show off the Buick Regal GS. It was a gorgeous place that fully embodied the majestic lake front property that many Michiganders love with everyday. As a man from Indiana I spent many summers visiting the dunes of southwestern Michigan but never have I gone this far north. Where we stayed was a bit touristy, but once outside the city boundaries it was like being home here in Bloomington, IN surrounded by trees, wilderness, and not much else it felt like the many times I have driven through Brown and Monroe county here. There were some amazing roads and with limited traffic it was one of those rare places where one could actually enjoy driving without worrying about other motorists. This may have been my first time but I think Traverse City will be a regular stop for me and my future wife Katelyn. But now enough of the post card moment I'll get back to the car.

One of the surprising aspects of the Regal GS is the fact that when you don’t need all 270 hp you can actually drive quite fuel efficiently. Over a 20-mile stretch at an average speed of 60 mph 31 MPGs were quite easy to attain. This means that on one hand owners have a stylish sports sedan that is capable of an extremely athletic performance, but at the same time on a long road trip fuel costs won’t pile up. With an initial MSRP of $35,310 the Buick Regal is quite a good value for customers who are looking for an excellent compromise between the amount of performance technology and livability they can get. The GS is not a pure performance vehicle it also has to be a car that someone can jump into day after day for a commute to world but also needs to excite its driver on weekend escapades to the back country roads. The Regal GS succeeds at being a great blend of both offering a comfortable interior with a striking exterior that is complimented by a first rate driving experience that is sure to win over customers tired of a sports sedan that kills their spine and a luxury sedan that just seems too pedantic. 

 

In depth Review of the 2011 Buick Enclave

The first corner you take in the 2011 Buick Enclave is the biggest surprise of all. "What is this?" is the first thing that came to mind because here is a 4700 lb. Buick that actually dove into a long sweeper. Buicks I have driven in the past were simply tuned to be as soft as possible with little or no confidence yet here you can have comfort but now a small smile will creep up every time you push this leviathan hard. Buick wants to attract a younger group of buyers and there is no better place to start than the progenitor of Buick's rebirth.

            Leviathan is a good word for the 2011 Buick Enclave. According to Buick the Enclave sits at 201.8 inches in length and 72.5 inches in height which is quite visually intimidating. With the fluidly flared fenders, large High Intensity Discharge Xenon headlights and the trademark waterfall grill the Enclave is an impressive sight to behold. Twenty-inch chrome wheels do a good job of filling the large wheel wells and give even this large crossover a sporty crouched look while still offering good ground clearance.

            The Buick Enclave is part of a trio of GM crossovers that include the GMC Acadia and the Chevrolet Traverse. Out of these three the Enclave shows the most attention to exterior detail with pleasing curves and complex sheet metal that draws light nicely and is a pleasure to look at as you walk away.  Especially at night with the Xenon headlights there is a strong feline resemblance that overall won me over.

            The interior of the Buick Enclave is another place where it shines. Buick also quotes roughly 112 cubic feet of cabin space there is no shortage of space within the interior. Equipped with second row captain's chairs and a third row bench six people can sit comfortably and with a bit of discomfort seven can find a seat in this Enclave.  The captain's chairs do not recline which means that second row passengers may have to constantly readjust as the miles pile on.  A dual panoramic sunroof allows for a wonderful view of the sky passing overhead but the secondary sunroof does not open which means second row passengers don't get to experience the full flavor of a sunroof.

            The Enclave offers options such as full touchscreen navigation, dual climate control, iPod connectivity, Bluetooth hands free calling, and OnStar things that a connected technologically savvy car buyer is looking for. The center counsel seems a bit dated for materials and design but everything is laid out logically with an easy to use touch screen and hard buttons that are easy to find by touch.  The dash mounted analog clock reminds you that this Buick shares a lineage with older models but this model is the first of the new lineup that offers more technology and more refinement than this. One thing that is missing is a blind spot awareness system that its direct competition the Acura MDX has. In a vehicle like this with an upswept belt line and massive rear pillars that feature seems necessary.

            Driving the roughly 4700-pound crossover is far from what you'd expect. With front struts and a multilink rear suspension unlike the leaf springs of former body on frame SUV's corners are no longer a curse word. Body roll is certainly present but well contained even under heavy steering load. The steering wheel like the other Lambda body SUV's is quite thin and road feel is a bit limited through it.  The variable assist power steering is actually a nice feature because it allows for easy dry steering of the immense 20-inch wheels while offering decent steering weight as speed increases which equals a very confident highway experience. Comfort is not forgotten in all of this and everything but the largest potholes are absorbed with aplomb. There is still a bit of the old Buick DNA in there but it is appreciated because not every driving situation you experience requires razor sharp chassis response in a crossover.

            Under the hood is a 3.6L SIDI (spark-ignited direct injection) engine that produces according to Buick and the EPA 288 hp at 6300 RPM and 270 ft/lbs at 3400 RPM. This engine is mated to a new Hydramatic 6-speed automatic transmission. In D the transmission is always wanting to upshift for the sake of fuel economy but dropping it into L remaps the transmission and holds onto gears for as long as possible which actually merits some impressive acceleration even attached such a massive vehicle. The aural experience of the V6 brings a smile every time it crosses the 4000-RPM mark. Fuel economy with this engine is hard to keep above the 20-mpg mark around town though the EPA rating for FWD is only 17/24 so this falls within that range. On the highway though with a light foot it is quite easy to beat EPA estimates where I saw economy rise to 26-30 MPG. Overall it is a potent yet efficient powertrain for over the highway driving.

            Buick has created here a modern, efficient, and extremely drivable crossover that no longer just appeals to buyers over the age of 55. With a thoroughly modern power train, a well-tuned suspension, and one of the quietest cabins in its class the Buick Enclave is an overall success. It offers technology and comfort that a new modern, technologically savvy, and stylish family looks for in a large crossover. Buick is no longer a luxury brand with a small niche market it has become a major competitor in offering stylish design orientated cars that appeal to young buyers without losing the old ones.

[Buick; Company Supplied Fact Sheet]

 

2011 Buick Enclave from a Personal Perspective

I recently had the opportunity to drive for a week the 2011 Buick Enclave to see if my perception of the new Buick image actually made the transition from concept to actual execution. I have really enjoyed witnessing the rebirth of Buick as a major player in the entry-level luxury market. This market is getting younger and I consider myself to be part of that market. I am someone who wants a car that has class, sleekness, technology, and advanced drive train technology. This is what I expected from the Buick Enclave and it truly delivered on the expectations that I had.

The driving experience and the drivetrain are things that play strongly into what I want out of a car and I am always leery of large crossovers. I worry that they will be too loose, feel too large, and shy away from anything not resembling a straight road. Fortunately I was very surprised to find that I really enjoyed actually driving the Buick Enclave. Instead of a lazy large engine it was fitted with a responsive quick revving direct injection V6 that I really appreciated from a drivers perspective. I also enjoyed the six-speed automatic which allowed me to on one hand drive economically but also was willing to kick down when I needed a bit more power. 

Coming from my usual daily driver the level of comfort in the interior was a bit mind blowing for me. I made a trip from Louisville to Elkhart Indiana that in my car is excruciatingly long but was surprisingly pleasing and short in the support Enclave seats. Noise isolation is very pleasing as well as active noise dampening that works on the principle of sound wave cancellation to rid the cabin of unwanted road noise. Ride comfort is important to me in a Buick and the Enclave is extremely comfortable without compromising too much in terms of the driving experience. The cabin also offers a whole list of features that are more important to younger buyers such as me. Touch screen navigation, voice activation, bluetooth, OnStar, all things you need for an energetic, free spirited drive. All of this combined with dual-climate control and heated as well as cooled seats make it ideal for long road trips especially to places you've never visited and need a helping hand to get around.

The Enclave come from a series of three vehicles; the Chevrolet Traverse, the GMC Acadia and itself. Out of these three the Enclave is by far my favorite. With the large cat-eye lights, lithe muscular body lines, and the appearance of a crouched stance the Enclave has an overall feline composure that I really enjoyed. I am also a fan of the waterfall grill that is elegant without being overly gaudy. I personally prefer a more reserved car and the Enclave allows you to show a bit of personality without being too much in your face; which I appreciated very much.

The only issue with the vehicle for me is that as a student the fuel economy means it's a bit out of the budget for a daily driver but that isn't the point of the Enclave at all. With a seating capacity of 7 people plus their cargo this is a vehicle for a young family not a single person and 17/24 on the EPA cycle is perfectly suited to the utility and the capability of a vehicle such as this. I thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity and came away with a better idea of the type of product Buick is trying to make. If future products stay on the same path as the 2011 Enclave, Buick has a bright future as an entry-level luxury brand.

For a more full depth review stay tuned for my in-depth review.

Talipa2012: My Next Vehicle

This entry is really just a hypothetical one the vehicle I am going to describe doesn't exist yet but is a amalgamation of features, technology, and motive force that I want in a vehicle to replace my current 2001 Volkswagen Jetta GL I understand that many of these things are restricted by costs, supply, demand, and economies of scale but then again this is only a theoretical possibility.

Constantly I am looking at new technology and I have an obsession with efficiency I look over the small details such as variable geometry oil pumps or solenoid actuated intake manifold valves. Features like these are extremely important to me because it shows a dedication to engineering and the pursuit of less fuel consumption, less emissions. 

Electrification also plays a large part in what I look for in my next vehicle. I want a system that focuses on capitalizing on the strengths of the electric motor which is instant torque from 0 rpms yet then takes a back seat to the greater efficiency efficiency of internal combustion engines for maintaining speed over long distance. The ability to plug in and have a full electric range is also important because for my personal life style I am either driving less than 40 miles or I am driving hundreds of miles. The ability to use no fuel during the week and save that money for road trips and other leisure activities would be invaluable.

Connectivity is also a keyword for me in my next vehicle. The ability to take the Web with me and make it available to my passengers is extremely important. I travel quite a bit and decreasing the stress and confusion that comes with traveling to a new city is very important. During long trips WiFi capability is important to allow passengers to stay relaxed especially my Fiance who loves to live stream video; she is my main travel partner. Music live stream services like Pandora and the latest US release of Spotify would be a valued asset for someone like me who can spend hours on the road as well. 

Advanced drive-train technology, electrification, plug-in ability, and advanced connectivity technology are the keywords for my next car. This should be wrapped in a compact, sleek, and refined package that exudes a sense of confidence without being flashy or in your face. This mental exercise into the realm of the theoretical is a facsimile of the perfect form of personal transportation for me. I look forward to the future of the automobile and the continuation of car culture. Hopefully more and more of this can become integrated into new cars from every automaker.

The New Buick and why I Love it.

Buicks of the past have always been about comfort, quietness, and a requirement that either this is your first high school car or you're over the age of 55. Buicks in the past were designed with performance in mind. Case and point the Buick Regal Grand National that has a place in muscle car history. Most modern Buicks were designed simply to ride nicely and be laid out simple enough as not to confuse its aging clientele.

After GM filed for Bankruptcy in 2009 the philosophy changed at Buick and the focus became a younger, sleeker, and more technologically savvy generation of buyers who want a car they can cruise the country in but this time truly enjoy that drive from point A to point B. When Buick launched the second generation Lacrosse in 2009 as a 2010 model was when I seriously began to look at Buicks for the first time in my life, it was aggressively styled, modern, yet still had a nice air of class to it that I could appreciate.  

For 2011 the Buick Regal based on the Opel Insignia a german mid-sized sedan was launched and at this point I realized that through the new Buick I could buy a German luxury sedan without the nasty mark up. When I first sat in the vehicle my first impression was thoroughly German with a clean, sleek, and purposefully laid out dash. I'm a conservative in terms of what I look for in a personal car and this shift from wavy simple dash design to a clean Germanic technological technological technological was certainly a game changer for me.

The upcoming Buick Verano which is based on the Opel Astra as well as a counterpart in the very successful Buick China fleet offers a very exciting proposition to a young buyer like myself. For the first time Buick is going to be offering a compact sedan that will offer a step up in refinement for a reasonable price; my best guess is pricing will be similar to a Chevrolet Cruze LTZ, that still offers a manual transmission, and a focus on a new group of buyers who want features and comforts without having to own a mid-size or a full size sedan to get it. 

Buick and General Motors are also looking to decrease the environmental impact and the fuel economy of their latest vehicles with a new system called eAsisst. Using a small 115V lithium ion battery and a 15kW induction electric motor mated to the current 2.4L directed injection 4-cyl engine GM engineers say that this will increase fuel economy by 25% or 26/37 on the EPA scale for the 2012 Regal. Another key feature to this is the system will be available with no increase in price over the power-train power-train it replaces. I see this as a realization of the importance of hybrid technology to get the most out of every drop of fuel.

Buick of the past were something I wouldn't bat an eye at let alone want to buy for myself. The Buick of today offers sport, technology, and soon mild electrification that creates a perfect trifecta of what I look for in a new car. I'm very excited to see the future of Buick and if they stay on this path of developing a complete package of comfort, sport, technology, and fuel efficiency I believe that I will one day be a Buick owner.

[Media Source: GM Inside News: http://media.gm.com ]