Ford Focus - transportation and fashion, only in the UK

Note the red Focus tail lamps

When is a car a dress and when is a dress a car?  Can you accessorize your dress with jewelry made from your car?   Seems challenging to imagine and actually make it happen. 

Now in Britain, Ford has taken that challenge and delivered both a Focus automobile, but also a dress and jewelry from parts of the Focus car.

We have seen that automotive manufacturers have been using more intriguing, and some would say bizarre methods to draw attention to their new products, design and technology. 

Ford  has certainly been in the forefront of this kind of promotional activity as shown at the opening of LEGOland™ this fall complete with a Ford exhibit of a full size replica of a Ford Explorer made from 380,000 LEGO™ bricks and the Matchbox creation of an F350 Super Duty fire “brush truck” concept shown at SEMA in November.

First Drive - 2013 Chevy Malibu ECO debuts with eAssist™

The new 2013 Chevy Malibu ECO with eAssist™ technology to boost mileage, drives firmly yet very light on its feet in city driving.  The 2013 Malibu ECO is the first Chevrolet to be powered with the eAssist™ integrated power train including a new generation 6-speed transmission.

General Motors launched their “all new” 2013 Chevy Malibu ECO in Austin, Texas  this week, hosting national automotive media writers in a series of two day briefings with ride and drive events in the city and then closing with a half day drive around Lake Travis to fully evaluate the significantly improved Malibu.

According to Jeanne Merchant, the Vehicle Line Director for Global Midsize Cars at Chevrolet, the challenge was to build from the Malibu iconic brand, a new car that could compete around the world. She says that the result of the intense and accelerated development effort is a “Malibu that will shine in markets around the world”.

Eclectic Boomer: BIG is Better in the Infiniti QX56 4WD

Eclectic Boomer: BIG is Better in the Infiniti QX56 4WD: Hands down, the Infiniti QX56 is about the best large luxury SUV’s on the market this year. And for 2012, the very top of the line QX56 ...

BIG is Better in the Infiniti QX56 4WD

Hands down, the Infiniti QX56 is about the best large luxury SUV’s on the market this year.   And for 2012, the very top of the line QX56 AWD 4WD loaded with just about all of the extras available confirmed  that boldly for me during a test drive week just recently. 

We recently drove a 7 passenger version in Liquid Platinum with the lush leather appointed Wheat interior and Tuscan Burl trim that was every bit as comfortable and rich as it looked. Following a week of driving the QX56 in Texas Hill Country that included a night at the Paramount Theater in Austin to a wonderful lunch at the Salt Lick Barbecue in Dripping Springs and an afternoon at the Westcave Cellars Winery in Round Mountain, Texas, I would buy this SUV. 

2013 Dodge Dart will be revealed at Detroit Auto Show

You can win a trip to the 2012 Detroit Auto Show as a guest of Chrysler Group LLC Dodge Brand to attend the reveal of the exciting new 2013 Dodge Dart.  Many of us in the baby boomer generation "fondly" and with mixed emotions, remember the old "slant six" Dart that got us where we needed to go every time.  Now, we have a chance to own the Dart again, this time with Alpha Romeo styling and Dodge performance to create a new Dart driving experience.

Consumers are invited to follow www.Dodge.com/Dart information about the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart as the Detroit Auto Show approaches.  Some exterior shots are available with the announcement today.  Interiors will be revealed on the site on 12/13 and consumers can follow the reveal at the Detroit Auto Show live on line on January 9.

The website directs you to the Dodge Dart Facebook page where you can enter a drawing for a trip to the reveal in Detroit in January.  If you have never attended the Detroit Auto Show, it is not to miss.  And, by following and sharing the Dart on Facebook, you can increase your chances to win the trip.

2013 Cobra Jet Mustang is coming - Fans Can Help Choose Color Online

Get out your checkbooks and be the first of 50 people only to own the turnkey performance Cobra Jet Mustang 2013.  Somewhere between $86,000 and $93,000 (depending on the engine you choose) will get you one.  But the orders are “first come, first served”.

The Cobra Jet Mustang limited run is back for 2013 and you can also help choose the official color of the 2013 edition.   Choose the color of the 2013 Cobra Jet – classic white, silver or black – by voting online at www.fordracing.com. Voting ends Dec. 31, 2011.

Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford’s Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph. That legacy was renewed in 2008 when Ford Racing offered a limited run of the 40th Anniversary Cobra Jet Mustang that quickly sold out. Subsequent 2010 and 2012 model year offerings of the Cobra Jet have proved just as popular.

Friday Dec. 2, Ford Racing unveiled the 2013 Cobra Jet Mustang at the Performance Racing Industry show in Orlando, Fla.

The 2013 Cobra Jet offers two 5.0-liter Ti-VCT engine options. Customers may choose a naturally aspirated engine with Cobra Jet induction system, CNC ported heads, high-lift cams and low-drag accessory drive, or a 2.9-liter Whipple supercharged version with CNC port-matched manifold and heads, and a proprietary 10-rib supercharger drive system for high-rpm use without belt slip.

“The 5.0-liter has all the attributes to make a world-class drag racing engine and is ideal for the Cobra Jet,” said George Goddu, business manager, Ford Racing Performance Group.. “Both the naturally aspirated and supercharged engines will be competitive as delivered.”

The 2013 Cobra Jet chassis has been improved. Lightweight body modifications give better weight distribution and electric power steering provides better driveability without horsepower loss. A new roll cage design is optimized for safety and chassis rigidity while the brake pedal ratio has been revised for more modulation and stopping power. And the rear suspension geometry delivers faster and more consistent 60-foot times.

The 2013 Cobra Jet is priced to be the best value, with an approximate MSRP of $86,000 with the naturally aspirated engine option and $93,000 with the supercharged engine.

There will be additional options and pricing announced in January 2012.

2013 Cobra Jet production is limited to only 50 units and orders placed through Ford dealers will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. (Part number M-FR500-CJ.)

Production of Cobra Jets will commence in June 2012, with delivery of all vehicles expected midsummer 2012.

Nissan Nismo Concepts now include the Juke

The Nissan Juke is proving to be immensely popular both in Europe and the United States and Nissan is seizing on the growing popularity to not only create a Juke R as I reported earlier, but to also show a Juke Nismo concept at the recent Tokyo Motor Show.

Introducing a concept version of the Juke Nismo at the Tokyo Motor Show, Shoichi Miyatani, President of Nismo said, “Nismo adds even more excitement and innovation to Nissan products. We now plan to inject that style and excitement into other models in the Nissan range”.

The Juke Nismo Concept shown at the Tokyo show was finished in Nismo’s signature color of pearl white with their signature subtle red highlights. Though detail specifications were not immediately available, the Juke Nismo is said to include performance tuning for the suspension, more power from the 1.6-litre direct injection turbo engine along with a stylish functional aerodynamic body kit.

The distinctive styling of the Nissan Juke defines it within its segment. With the concept shown makes it even more distinctive. It is lower, wider and has a tougher stance. Standing still, it appears to be in motion. The dynamically efficient profile created with Nismo parts includes lower bumpers front and rear, wider fenders and sill side skirts.

"As the Concept shows, Nismo brings new levels of individuality to mainstream Nissan cars like Juke. The future for Nismo is to develop premium sports designs for an ever-widening range of customers," said Nismo President, Shoichi Miyatani.  "Our forthcoming range of cars will be just as accessible and innovative as every Nissan product, but with added Nismo energy they will be even more fun to own and drive," he added.In support of that commitment, Nissan is looking at additional production of complete performance versions of Nissan models (such as the Nismo 370Z RC I reported on in October).

Nismo will relocate to an all-new purpose designed global headquarters in Tsurumi, Yokohama at the start of 2013. The company plans to expand its range of Nismo performance parts and accessories in addition and by bringing all of Nismo’s activities under one roof, Nissan Nismo intends to create a global center of excellence for race and performance road car development. As well as a race shop, the centre will have a large maintenance area for service work, a heritage area where famous Nismo race and road cars will be displayed and a specialist store – the Omori Factory, named after Nismo’s current base – where customers can buy performance parts and items from the Nismo Collection.

Chevy Volt Battery fire update - Volt is safe says GM.......................

I have been following this story as closely as possible and can assure readers that GM is all over this thing with every resource available.  I understand that a preliminary report suggests that a cooling cell in the battery pack may have ruptured and oxidized resulting in the fire at a later time.  I do not know if NHTSA followed the GM battery "depower" protocol following the crash tests.  The amount of research and testing that went into these lithium-ion batteries made by GM before production was massive. I expect they will work very hard to very quickly get an answer to the cause and any fixes, if necessary, handled promptly...............................

The Story:

GM announced this week that they will be willing to purchase a Volt back from any owner who is afraid that their vehicle will catch fire.  This latest customer satisfaction effort by GM came from CEO Daniel Akerson in response to continuing concerns regarding the safety of the Volt.  Details of the buyback program have not been provided.

This latest response is in addition to the previously announced policy of providing a loaner car to any Volt owner who requests it while the investigation into the causes and fixes that may be required continues.  Any Volt owner wishing to be provided a loaner should contact their Volt advisor according to GM.

Ram Runner – MOPAR off-road performance with Ram reliability

Ram Runner – MOPAR off-road performance with Ram reliability

Magic trick: Car becomes a "truck" | kxan.com

Magic trick: Car becomes a "truck" kxan.com

LaCrosse GL Concept Refines Buick’s Signature Style

LaCrosse GL Concept Refines Buick’s Signature Style

Camaro ZL1 by the Numbers: 3.9 Seconds, 184 mph, $54,995

Camaro ZL1 by the Numbers: 3.9 Seconds, 184 mph, $54,995

Eclectic Boomer: Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn - Luxury Truck of Texas

Eclectic Boomer: Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn - Luxury Truck of Texas: Last Fall, the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) held their annual Truck Rodeo near San Antonio to judge over 50 entries by manufacturer...

Eclectic Boomer: When in Drought, Wash Your Car Rinse Free

Eclectic Boomer: When in Drought, Wash Your Car Rinse Free: With no end in sight to one of the worst droughts in recent history in Texas, car washing is now banned in many communities. Car washes st...

Eclectic Boomer: Jeep Patriot Latitude 70th Anniversary Edition is ...

Eclectic Boomer: Jeep Patriot Latitude 70th Anniversary Edition is ...: In 1940, the US government issued a requirement for automotive manufacturers to develop and provide a general purpose (gp) “light reconnaiss...

Eclectic Boomer: Road Trip "Route 66" with your dogs at Drury Hotel...

Eclectic Boomer: Road Trip "Route 66" with your dogs at Drury Hotel...: Many people are hesitant to take road trips that include their dogs because there are so many hotels and motels along the way that do not ta...

Eclectic Boomer: Dodge Journey along "Route 66"

Eclectic Boomer: Dodge Journey along "Route 66":  2011 Dodge Journey Crew AWD  Chrysler, across its various product groups, has been aggressively returning to the market with excelle...

Eclectic Boomer: Riding "Route 66" for the Cure

Eclectic Boomer: Riding "Route 66" for the Cure: Motorcycle enthusiast groups have become significant contributors to the American tradition of hosting events or “rides” to raise funds for...

Riding "Route 66" for the Cure

Motorcycle enthusiast groups have become significant contributors to the American tradition of hosting events or “rides” to raise funds for worthy causes across the country for several years now.  Most of those we see on the news are very large groups undertaking very large efforts to raise large sums for a cause.  What we often do not see are the hundreds of small motorcycle groups who also take on projects to raise money in smaller ways which are equally important at the end of the day.



Getting ready to head out on "66"



Roger Fox

While overnighting on our return to Texas in Joplin Missouri over Labor Day weekend, we met such a group by the name of “Ride for Relay “.  This group does a fund raising ride every year following Route 66 from Navy Pier in Chicago to Santa Monica, California. Started six years ago by cancer survivor Roger Fox, this group has grown from just a handful of friends to a “full ride” group of about 60 enthusiasts augmented by hundreds of supporters along the way including automotive and motorcycle riders who join the group for segments of the trip.  Roger mentioned he was familiar with our legendary “Republic of Texas” Motorcycle Rally (www.rotrally.com) each year in Austin because of Texas motorcycle enthusiasts who ride with them on the Amarillo leg in Texas.

We happened onto Roger on Labor Day evening in Joplin while fueling up our 2011 Dodge Journey Crew test vehicle. At the next pump, we could not help noticing an extremely sharp looking yellow Honda motorcycle towing a custom trailer holding a matching yellow miniature car in the mold of a Chevrolet. We complimented his “ride” and asked if he was with the group of riders we had noticed at the motel up the street.  They were on Day 3 of their 12 day ride which averages about 200 miles per day. On this evening they were staying in Joplin for the night as guests of the Fairfield Inn (www.marriott.com/fairfieldinn) and the Manager Chris Byers who holds a barbecue for them and local supporters each year.

The group pretty closely follows the old Route 66 from Chicago to Springfield Illinois then on to Rolla and Joplin Missouri and then to Edmund and Oklahoma City Oklahoma, passing through Amarillo Texas to Santa Rosa and Grants New Mexico into Holbrook and Kingman Arizona and finishing through Barstow, Colton and Santa Monica California.  Roger’s nick name on this ride is “U-turn”.  Something about all the turning and herding he does for the 12 days to keep the group closed up and making their schedule to each of those Route 66 stops.

In just the few short years of this ride, they have formed several local friendships along Route 66 who come out every year to ride along awhile or break bread with them when they stop.

Each rider pays 100% of his costs while many local businesses along the route provide lodging and food support and contributions to the cause. In the short history of this group, they have raised over $85,000 for cancer research.

Roger sees this Ride for the Relay as opportunity for himself and his group to not only payback but to pay forward to the communities that have supported them.   An example would be in Joplin where a couple of employees of the Fairfield Inn lost everything in the tornado this past year.  The Ride for the Relay group passed the hat and sent a $1,000 to each to help them get back on their feet.  As Roger points out, “this ride allows you to meet and help friends you never knew you had”.

You can support their 2011 Ride for the Relay by going to their website www.ridefortherelay.org and learn more about the group, get a daily report on the ride and make a donation.  Join them and make some friends you did not know you had.



Dodge Journey along "Route 66"



2011 Dodge Journey Crew AWD



Chrysler, across its various product groups, has been aggressively returning to the market with excellently styled vehicles,  strong and capable power trains, comfortable and well designed interiors, state of the art technology and innovative customer features that are making them, once again, “Best in Class” across several brands and models.

In 2011, Dodge stands out in several categories including Mid Size SUV’s with the improved and upgraded Journey 5-7 passenger mid size SUV.  Dodge Journey, for 2011,  comes in four models from Express FWD (starting at $22,245) to Mainstreet AWD ($24,445) to Crew / RT AWD ($30,145) and the top of the line Lux AWD ($33,465).



Comfortable Command Seating



We road trip tested a 2011 Journey Crew AWD over the long Labor Day weekend, driving about 2,350 miles from Austin, Texas to Chicago and back over seven days.  The trip included long highway, expressway stretches with city and rural driving around Chicago and Austin.  The varied type of driving conditions allowed us to see clearly just how good this 7 passenger family cross over SUV really is.  It did not disappoint us, and in fact surprised us in key areas of comfort, technology and mileage.



Functional Cockpit Styling



The unit we tested was in Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat with black interior and premium cloth low back bucket seats.  Its power train included the upgraded 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine generating 283 hp coupled excellently to the 6 speed automatic 62TE transmission. The base price was $30,940. The Crew comes with 19X7 wheels and tires and but this unit had the LUX aluminum chrome clad wheels in place of the satin silver painted aluminum ($500). Other optional equipment included one of the Navigation & Sound Groups available with Garmin Navigation, universal garage door opener, Uconnect Touch CD/DVD/MP3 with 8.4 inch high resolution screen, ParkSense rear park assist system and ParkView rear back-up camera ($995) plus Second Row seats with two Pop-Up Child Booster seats ($225).  Delivered with freight, $33,410.

The base package for a Dodge Journey Crew AWD includes all of the features you would expect in either a good SUV or a Family van – all in one well crafted 7 passenger vehicle. The ride is nimble yet powerfully solid - handling well in all driving conditions due to the improved suspensions and careful integration of the AWD system with the power train. This is a fun drive as evidenced by my reluctance to “surrender” the driving to my partner even after 6-7 hours on the road.



Tilt'nSlide w/Booster



Features of the interior include best in class capacity with innovations including Tilt’nSlide action for both sides of the second row to allow access to the third row, integrated child booster seats in the second row, Flip’nStow compartments under the seat cushions, stadium seating in second and third rows, in floor storage bins with washable liners on both sides of the second row, four 12-volt power points, USB ports, 115V 150W power inverter, remote start, illuminated cup holders and a removable rechargeable LED flashlight in side wall adjacent to the back hatch.  We tested the 7 passenger capability in a family outing to Chinatown in Chicago (4  adults and 3 children under 8) and found it met our need and expectations.



Screen Shows Turn Ahead



As for the road trip, the seats are comfortable and leg room is both long and wide in the driver cockpit.  All of the necessary command and control elements for safe and comfortable driving are well within reach, well marked and easy to operate. The well designed one-piece instrument panel serves to set the tone.  The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) is well positioned in the center of the instrument gauge clusters. It is well lit and has high resolution that is back lit in Dodge red lights.  It is simple and easy to use intuitively. The new multi function three spoke steering wheel with integrated controls allow you to access the EVIC without losing sight of the road.  Of particular note, was the integration with the Garmin Navigation system and 8.4 inch screen in the Uconnect Touch command center at the top of the stack.  As the navigation approaches a turn or other change, it shows it as you would expect on the big screen. And, it also gives you a simple clear picture of the change you need to execute on the small EVIC screen in front of you.  This allows you to keep your eyes on the road and still take advantage of the navigation change instructions.  This was a tremendous feature both on the highway and in the city that worked perfectly all the time.

Did I mention mileage?  The official rating for this Dodge Journey Crew AWD is 16 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway.  We logged our fuel and mileage carefully checking it against the calculator in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).  On the highway segments we achieved 26.1 MPG.  City segments averaged 19.7 MPG.  Combined for the trip, the average was 25.3 MPG. With the 21.1 gallon tank, the Journey Crew has a range of over 500 miles.

The 2011 Dodge Journey has received several awards including being a IIHS “Top Safety Pick and the Pentastar V-6 engine is recognized as one of Wards “10 Best Engines” for 2011.  The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) named it the 2011 “Family Car of Texas” at their annual Spring Roundup after more than 50 automotive journalists were able to drive it and other competing vehicles over a two day period at the Texas Motor Speedway.

If you are looking for a true family car that can handle up to 7 passengers and are struggling between an SUV and a van, take a look at the Dodge Journey.  For 2012, Dodge is adding a fifth level of trim vehicle and adjusting pricing and options to provide more Journey in 2012 for less money for same features.  Go see your Dodge dealer for a test drive.  Bring the kids along to check it out.

http://media.chrysler.com/homepage.do;jsessionid=3C6AE534823A851EFCC6FD4E76A650F3?mid=1

Chrysler to be first US Automaker with an 8 speed automatic ...............

Road Trip "Route 66" with your dogs at Drury Hotels and La Quinta Inns

Many people are hesitant to take road trips that include their dogs because there are so many hotels and motels along the way that do not take pets or if they do, charge high one time fees for pets or restrict number and size of pets. Surprisingly, there are many more hotels and motels that take pets and have reasonable cost or no cost policies than most people think.  So, before you decide not to take the dog, do some checking regarding “pet friendly” lodging availability along the route.  And, with the recent fires and forced evacuations of Texas residents with pets, the need to find temporary lodging that is pet friendly has become very important for more than just casual travel.

There are a number of good sources on the internet for finding pet friendly lodgings along your route.  One we have used is the relatively new travel arrangements aggregator site KAYAK (www.kayak.com).  Just filter by “pet friendly” and it will give you lists of hotels and motels along your route that are pet friendly.  However, the quality of the lodgings and locations along the route may not be consistent with your expectations, making selecting lodgings a “roll of the dice”.

Two good quality chains that we have found are Drury Hotels (www.Druryhotels.com) and La Quinta Inns (www.lq.com).   Both are long established brands with moderate priced, good quality lodgings that cater to families and pets, usually without extra charge.  In a Labor Day trip to Chicago and back (with our two dogs) we used both chains along “Route 66” to break the 2400 mile roundtrip into manageable segments.  We were very pleased again with the quality and location of the properties, the helpfulness and proficiencies of the staffs and the size and amenities of the rooms.  Rates will vary by location, season and day of the week.  Internet specials are available along with affinity discounts like AAA, ARP and others.

In Joplin Missouri on both legs of the trip, we stayed at the La Quinta Inns and Suites on South Rangeline Road just minutes off of I-44.  The rate for a very nice queen room was $80.99 and it included a nice breakfast with lots of choices each morning.  We would note that that the devastating tornado that struck Joplin a few months back passed within blocks of this property. We took a short drive into the area of destruction and can attest that the devastation was beyond what you could appreciate from the news coverage.  But the spirit of the Joplin community and the many people we met at the hotel who were involved in reconstruction was high and very optimistic in putting it all back together over time. 

We stayed another night in Springfield Illinois at the Drury Inns and Suites on South Dirksen Parkway just minutes off I-55.  Again, the accommodations were very nice and the personnel were helpful and available at all times.  The room was a queen again with a rate of $114.99.

At Drury Hotels, the room rate includes a hot prepared breakfast to order (limited menu but more than adequate) and an afternoon “Kickback” at 5:30 each day which includes a wide assortment of hot foods and cold beverages.  The food offering has many items just right for the kids along with plenty to satisfy the adults.  And, the cold beverages include “adult” items as well.  

La Quinta Inns are based out of Dallas Texas and include both La Quinta Inns and La Quinta Inns and Suites.  Drury Hotels is based out of St. Louis and includes Drury Hotels, Drury Inns, Drury Inns and Suites and Pear Tree Inns. We would add that Drury Hotels has been a J.D. Power and Associates winner of “Highest in Guest Satisfaction Among Mid-Scale Limited Service Hotel Chains” now six years in a row.  La Quinta has a broad geographical reach with over 800 hotels in the US, Canada and Mexico. Drury Hotels is family owned with over 130 properties in 20 states mainly situated in the Midwest, Southwest and Southeast US.

As you make road travel plans, give serious thought to bringing the dogs with you to not only save the boarding costs (we saved $460 in boarding this trip) but also to include them in the family vacation or trip as well.  Check out both La Quinta Inns and Drury Hotels.  You will save money and have a nice stay.  And, your dogs will thank you too.

Jeep Patriot Latitude 70th Anniversary Edition is Value Packed

In 1940, the US government issued a requirement for automotive manufacturers to develop and provide a general purpose (gp) “light reconnaissance vehicle” for the US Army.  Willys-Overland eventually won the bulk of the contract and produced 368,000 of the vehicles with others, under license producing almost another 300,000.  Willys-Overland called their vehicle the “Quad”, but very shortly the Army came to call the general purpose (gp) vehicle the Jeep™.

Jeep™ has become one of the few true icons in most of the world becoming synonymous with sport utility vehicles in general.  Through the 70 years since World War Two, a civilian Jeep™ has been produced starting with the JeepCJ-2A in 1945.  Today, Jeep™ produces and delivers five versions of the popular sport utility vehicle for the world marketplace.  Starting with the full size Grand Cherokee SUV at the top of the line and then the Wrangler / Wrangler Unlimited, Liberty as a mid-sized SUV with Compass and Patriot being offered in the compact-SUV segment, Jeep™ has an option for everyone.

As Jeep™ celebrates its 70^th Anniversary in 2011, they have created a special edition version in all of their current models.  The Patriot Latitude 4X2 (also available as a 4X4) is no exception with some very nice features added to celebrate the 70^th Anniversary in a very affordable compact-SUV with iconic Jeep™ heritage. Those features are mostly interior including dark slate seats with perforated leather inserts embossed with the Jeep™ logo. The seats are trimmed with chestnut accent stitching and piping. The other 70^th Anniversary features included for the modest $575 up charge include a unique dark green cluster overlay, 70^th Anniversary logo on the radio screen, berber floor mats and cargo area all trimmed with chestnut binding.

A 70^th Anniversary badge is discretely placed on each of the front doors. 

The model we tested was the Latitude 4X2 midrange Patriot with the 70^th Anniversary upgrade.

The Latitude comes with larger 17 inch tires and style steel aluminum wheels and the bigger 2.4-liter I4 DOHC engine generating 172 hp with a standard 5 speed manual transmission rated at 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.  The car we drove was equipped with the 6 speed auto stick CVT2 Controllable Variable Transmission second generation.  This power train combination is rated at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.  The second generation auto stick CVT is improved and performs much better than earlier year models.  Though you will not be racing this one from a standing stop, it performed more than adequately in normal city and highway driving as tested. 

Though this Jeep™ is of the “off road” heritage, it is not the full rough off-road performer that its bigger brothers are.  But, it is a very nice and affordable performer for the family that is looking for Jeep™ styling, above average off-road ability of most car based crossover vehicles while  giving a “rugged” look with in a comfortable suburban or city friendly runabout. 

The Jeep™ Patriot Latitude 4X2 70^th Anniversary edition has a base price of $22,720 including the Anniversary accessories.  Adding CVT2 transmission, Media Center 430N 6CD/DVD, MP3/HDD radio with Sirius XM Satellite Radio and steering wheel mounted audio controls, Uconnect voice command with Bluetooth™, USB port for mobile devices, auto dimming rearview mirror with microphone, power 6 way driver seat, heated seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, adjustable roof rail crossbars, soft tonneau cover, daytime running lamps plus destination charges brought the model tested to $26,450.  There are additional options available including a sunroof, Bose speaker system and a pair of nifty Boston Acoustics speakers that swing down from the raised lift gate when open.  Colors available include Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl and Bronze Star Pearl Coat.  The interior for all is Dark Slate Gray.

This is a very comfortable compact SUV to drive and ride in.  It holds five very comfortably. although the actual back storage space is small (as in most compact SUV’s) it is more than adequate for items you may be bringing along to the beach, mountains, a picnic or bringing home from the mall.  With the 60/40 fold down rear seats that fold flat, the carry capacity for this vehicle is very good especially with the wide rear opening and swing up door to facilitate loading. 

The Jeep™ Patriot Latitude 4X2 70^th Anniversary Edition is a good value from the iconic Jeep™ family of sport utility vehicles.

When in Drought, Wash Your Car Rinse Free

With no end in sight to one of the worst droughts in recent history in Texas, car washing is now banned in many communities.  Car washes still operate, but are also under some restrictions as well and are busier than usual resulting in delays when going to have the car washed.  But there is a way to keep your ride shiny and clean even during this period.  And you can do it at home, legally. The answer is Rinse-Free Car Wash by XPEL Technologies.

XPEL Technologies of San Antonio developed their Rinse-Free car wash as part of the of their primary product line of protective customized automotive finish coating films for dealer or aftermarket application.  Designed to thoroughly clean and prep the finish of a car before application of the custom XPEL films, the product has quickly become a product of choice for vehicle owners wanting to clean their cars while protecting the finish as well.

XPEL Rinse-Free Car Wash cleans the car finish quickly and easily without having to rinse the surface as you wash, eliminating water waste.  The product is environmentally safe with a patented lubricating polymer formula that removes the dirt without scratching and enhances the finish as it is wiped away.

XPEL Rinse-Free Car Wash is mixed one ounce (5 capfuls) with a gallon of water in a bucket.

Dip your wash mitt in the bucket and wipe one section with the wash. Dry the section with a high quality micro fiber cloth towel.  Then move onto the next section.  Quick, easy and leaves the car surface sparkling clean.

This product really works well.  I have been using it on the high luster finish of my Inferno Red Chrysler Crossfire Roadster (see my BLOG header pic) for many months now and have been amazed at how well it cleans and leave the finish with a show room luster in only a few minutes of work.  Without having to rinse, you can even wash your car in the garage.

XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash comes in a 16 ounce bottle for $8.95 or a one gallon jug for $39.95.  The 16 ounce bottle will do about 16 washes, so should be just right for the car owner who takes care of his car at home. And, at $8.95, a whole lot cheaper than the car wash down the street.

XPEL Rinse Free Car Wash is available on line from XPEL on their website http://www.xpel.com/products/tools.asp?product=Rinse%20Free%20Carwash%20System.

I also recommend purchasing their Microfiber Wash Mitt ($5.75) and Green 16X16 Super Plush Microfiber Towel ($5.75).

XPEL makes custom films for several manufacturers with one of the most prominent being BMW.  If you have seen a BMW with what appears to be a custom finish on the hood, roof or rear deck lid, it is XPEL Film applied by a dealer.   You can learn more about XPEL Automotive Finish Films at their website www.xpel.com .

Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn - Luxury Truck of Texas

Last Fall, the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) held their annual Truck Rodeo near San Antonio to judge over 50 entries by manufacturers in several categories of consumer grade trucks including SUV’s and pickup trucks. All of the auto manufacturers covet the highest award in the categories they have entered due to the prestige it brings them in one of the largest automotive markets in the US.  The Truck of Texas  Awards are highly prized for the recognition of the efforts of the manufacturer to produce  the vehicle as well as the marketing advantage it gives them for the model year in the state (Texas) with the largest truck sales in the country.

The 2010 TAWA Truck Rodeo crowned a “new sheriff in town” in several categories out of the bunch of entries from the Ram Truck Division of Chrysler.  The ultimate prize “Texas Edition Luxury Truck” went to the Ram Laramie Longhorn.  The designated Ram winner was the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, but the award also extended to the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn versions as well.

All of these Ram Laramie Longhorn trucks have exceptional design from the very functional yet handsome exteriors to the outstanding interior design typifying the essence of Texas in both materials and ornamentation. Exterior identification is bold in size and placement allowing quick identification of this Texas Edition truck.  The Interior is where the Ram really stands out above and beyond the competition. 

The crew cab seats 5 very easily and the seats are done richly in hand stitched leather with very fine tooled surfaces on both seats and backs.  The tool scroll work appears in several other areas including the chrome rings around the speedometer and other instruments as well as on the faces of the indicator plates inside the instrument cluster.  The use of leather Laramie Longhorn Edition badges stitched to the seats and the storage consoles add nicely to the ambiance.  The backs of the front seats have “saddle bag” storage pockets attached with tooled leather pouch flaps closures with “silver buckle” appearing clasps.  The floor carpets and weather mats continue the Texas design including molded barbed wire on the mats which are also fitted with snap out carpet inserts.

Just recently we were able to test drive the biggest and baddest of the Laramie Longhorn  bunch, the Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab 4X4 “dualie” with dual rear wheels.  This is one serious truck.  Even with the “dualies” the heavier suspension and the 5.7L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel, this truck runs easily around town and very smoothly and quietly on the highway.  Don’t get me wrong, this truck is big and with the “dualies”, the rear fender skirts require a much wider footprint than you might be used to.  The negative, as you would expect, is that it does not fit inside the typical footprint of a parking lot space.  You do need to choose your spot so that you can use some of the space in front or behind you.  But, on the other hand, it is so comfortable and easy to drive with many luxury features easy to use close at hand, you do not mind the size.

This is also a work without a doubt. Looking at the power train and related mechanical features, the Ram 3500 is more than equal to or superior to its competition.  The Ram is the only truck in this class that is diesel equipped with the venerable Cummins 6.7L I6 Turbo Diesel engine generating 350hp at 3000 rpm.  With the 6 speed automatic transmission, the Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn has towing capacity of 12,900# and a gross combined weight rating of 21,000#.  And, when not towing, it can get up and go when it needs to. Mileage ratings were not available.  Travelling Austin to Kerrville and back, the average was 14.7 mpg.  Around town, it was 13.7 mpg.

But the luxury touches really make this one stand out. It has a long list of standard luxury features but, the Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn 4X4 Crew “dualie” also includes exclusively the following: heated seats both front and rear, vented (cooled) front seats (including the seat backs), lighted glove boxe, Garmin navigation with voice activation, parking assist sensors with rear camera and an entertainment system with 10 speakers in the cabin.  This is a  town and ranch family truck with all these features.

As equipped, the Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn 4X4 Crew “dualie” stickers at $61,705.  The comparable vehicles from other manufacturers are in the same range.  It is notable that you can have this Texas luxury ambiance in several dual and single wheel levels in the Ram 3500 and single or dual wheel levels in the Ram 2500 or consider the Ram Laramie Longhorn 1500 Crew.  In any version, this is a distinctive and well crafted truck that will make any Texas truck owner proud.