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Showing results for tags 'MAMA Spring Rally'.
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I will admit that I have a thing for high-performance luxury flagships because of the sheer contradiction of them. Here is a type of vehicle whose main purpose is to coddle their passengers and provide smooth ride, and then drop in a bunch of performance goodies to make it into something completely different. But I never had the chance to drive one of these vehicles. That changed at the MAMA Spring Rally back in May where Mercedes-Benz had a 2014 S63 AMG 4Matic available for drives. Lets begin with the S-Class itself. The new model I think is one of the best looking S-Classes in quite a while. It takes the last-generation model and refines it. The front end is more imposing with the large grille and headlights, while the three-pointed star takes its requisite spot on top the hood. The back end gets a new trunk lid and revised styling for the tailights. AMG adds some subtle changes such as front bumper with larger air vents, larger matte-finish wheels, different finishes for the trim, and the endless amount of AMG badges. The only thing I would change is the black wheels as it ruins the look of the S63. Inside, the S63 AMG is pure class. Mercedes still knows how build a well-crafted interior in their higher-end models with high-quality wood, leather, plastic, and metal everywhere. The seats could rival a laz-a-boy recliner for how comfortable they are. The wide number of adjustments, heat, ventilation, and massaging function are the icing on top. Technology is everywhere with two massive screens stretching across the driver's field of vision. One screen features gauges and trip computer functions, while the other handles infotainment needs. Power comes from a twin-turbo 5.5L V8 engine with 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. This comes paired up to a seven-speed automatic and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Sorry, no rear-wheel drive is available for this model. Step on the throttle and the S63 moves at rate that only performance sports cars can achieve. 60 MPH is reached in a scant 3.9 seconds and can hit a top speed of 186 MPH. Driving on the back roads in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, it shocked me how quick the S63 can get up to speed. But more shocking is how the model rides and handles. The S63 is fitted with an air suspension that adjusted from comfort to sport, larger anti-roll bar, and a stiffer subframe carrier. These changes make S63 handle surprisingly well with no feeling of body lean and feeling very planted. It cannot fully mask the size of S63 though, which is ok. Put the suspension in comfort and it becomes a normal S-Class with a smooth ride and no hint of wind/road noise. Steering has good feel and weight no matter if you decide to drive around town or a back road. The S63 AMG 4Matic shows that Mercedes can make their top-of-line luxury sedan become a really enjoyable driver's sedan. You'll just have to pay a very pretty penny for the chance. Disclaimer: Mercedes-Benz Provided the S63 AMG 4Matic For The MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class Trim: S63 AMG 4Matic Engine: 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 Driveline: Seven-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 577 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 664 @ 2,250 - 3,750 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 15/23/18 Curb Weight: N/A Location of Manufacture: Sindelfingen, Germany Base Price: $139,500 As Tested Price: $164,535 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Burmester High-End 3D Sound System - $6,400 Black/Black Exclusive Napa Leather - $4,450 Driver Assistance Package - $2,800 Warmth and Comfort Package - $2,600 Night View Plus - $2,260 Twenty-Inch AMG 10-Spoke Forged Wheels - Black - $2,200 Surround View Camera - $900 Red Brake Calipers - $700 AMG Performance Steering Wheel with Dinamica Side Grips - $500 Air Balance Package - $350 View full article
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I will admit that I have a thing for high-performance luxury flagships because of the sheer contradiction of them. Here is a type of vehicle whose main purpose is to coddle their passengers and provide smooth ride, and then drop in a bunch of performance goodies to make it into something completely different. But I never had the chance to drive one of these vehicles. That changed at the MAMA Spring Rally back in May where Mercedes-Benz had a 2014 S63 AMG 4Matic available for drives. Lets begin with the S-Class itself. The new model I think is one of the best looking S-Classes in quite a while. It takes the last-generation model and refines it. The front end is more imposing with the large grille and headlights, while the three-pointed star takes its requisite spot on top the hood. The back end gets a new trunk lid and revised styling for the tailights. AMG adds some subtle changes such as front bumper with larger air vents, larger matte-finish wheels, different finishes for the trim, and the endless amount of AMG badges. The only thing I would change is the black wheels as it ruins the look of the S63. Inside, the S63 AMG is pure class. Mercedes still knows how build a well-crafted interior in their higher-end models with high-quality wood, leather, plastic, and metal everywhere. The seats could rival a laz-a-boy recliner for how comfortable they are. The wide number of adjustments, heat, ventilation, and massaging function are the icing on top. Technology is everywhere with two massive screens stretching across the driver's field of vision. One screen features gauges and trip computer functions, while the other handles infotainment needs. Power comes from a twin-turbo 5.5L V8 engine with 577 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. This comes paired up to a seven-speed automatic and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Sorry, no rear-wheel drive is available for this model. Step on the throttle and the S63 moves at rate that only performance sports cars can achieve. 60 MPH is reached in a scant 3.9 seconds and can hit a top speed of 186 MPH. Driving on the back roads in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, it shocked me how quick the S63 can get up to speed. But more shocking is how the model rides and handles. The S63 is fitted with an air suspension that adjusted from comfort to sport, larger anti-roll bar, and a stiffer subframe carrier. These changes make S63 handle surprisingly well with no feeling of body lean and feeling very planted. It cannot fully mask the size of S63 though, which is ok. Put the suspension in comfort and it becomes a normal S-Class with a smooth ride and no hint of wind/road noise. Steering has good feel and weight no matter if you decide to drive around town or a back road. The S63 AMG 4Matic shows that Mercedes can make their top-of-line luxury sedan become a really enjoyable driver's sedan. You'll just have to pay a very pretty penny for the chance. Disclaimer: Mercedes-Benz Provided the S63 AMG 4Matic For The MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class Trim: S63 AMG 4Matic Engine: 5.5L Twin-Turbo V8 Driveline: Seven-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 577 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 664 @ 2,250 - 3,750 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 15/23/18 Curb Weight: N/A Location of Manufacture: Sindelfingen, Germany Base Price: $139,500 As Tested Price: $164,535 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Burmester High-End 3D Sound System - $6,400 Black/Black Exclusive Napa Leather - $4,450 Driver Assistance Package - $2,800 Warmth and Comfort Package - $2,600 Night View Plus - $2,260 Twenty-Inch AMG 10-Spoke Forged Wheels - Black - $2,200 Surround View Camera - $900 Red Brake Calipers - $700 AMG Performance Steering Wheel with Dinamica Side Grips - $500 Air Balance Package - $350 -
General Motors' track record with bringing and selling vehicles from Australia to the U.S. has been very checkered. All of the attempts see to have ambitious sales goals, and then not meeting them. GM hopes the third (or the fourth as some would argue) try might be it. That try is the 2014 Chevrolet SS. The SS got many criticisms for its exterior design and how blah it is. But let's be honest for a moment; the GTO and G8 (to a point) weren't really that exciting to look at either. Sure both models down the line (or trim line in the case of the G8) got bits and pieces that made them look more aggressive. To me, I think the SS looks great, especially in the black with the nineteen-inch aluminum wheels. The overall look adds a bit of a sleeper element to vehicle, which consider what lies under the hood is a very good thing. Speaking of which, under the hood lies a 6.2L V8 with 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a six-speed automatic which sends all of that power to the rear wheels. GM quotes a 0-60 MPH time of under five seconds and it feels that quick. Step on the accelerator and V8 roars into life and moves you at a rate that you cannot believe is possible in a big sedan. The six-speed automatic is quick and responsive, but some will be wishing for a manual transmission to add to the enjoyment. As for handling, the SS feels like a proper performance car. Body lean and roll are kept to a minimum and steering is very responsive. Now I kind of wished for a little bit more feel and weight with the steering, but overall I was impressed. The drawback for some is that the sport suspension tuning means an uncomfortable ride. I noticed that somewhat, but it wasn't that bad compared some other models. With an as-tested pricetag of $45,570 (includes a $1,300 Gas Guzzler Tax) and a load of standard equipment such as leather sport seats, Chevrolet's MyLink, keyless entry and start, and much more; the SS may be the charm that GM has been looking for. Disclaimer: Chevrolet Provided the SS for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Chevrolet Model: SS Trim: N/A Engine: 6.2L V8 Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Rear-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 415 @ 5900 Torque @ RPM: 415 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 14/21/17 Curb Weight: 3,975 lbs Location of Manufacture: Elizabeth, Australia Base Price: $43,475 As Tested Price: $45,770 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge and $1,300 Gas Guzzler Tax) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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General Motors' track record with bringing and selling vehicles from Australia to the U.S. has been very checkered. All of the attempts see to have ambitious sales goals, and then not meeting them. GM hopes the third (or the fourth as some would argue) try might be it. That try is the 2014 Chevrolet SS. The SS got many criticisms for its exterior design and how blah it is. But let's be honest for a moment; the GTO and G8 (to a point) weren't really that exciting to look at either. Sure both models down the line (or trim line in the case of the G8) got bits and pieces that made them look more aggressive. To me, I think the SS looks great, especially in the black with the nineteen-inch aluminum wheels. The overall look adds a bit of a sleeper element to vehicle, which consider what lies under the hood is a very good thing. Speaking of which, under the hood lies a 6.2L V8 with 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a six-speed automatic which sends all of that power to the rear wheels. GM quotes a 0-60 MPH time of under five seconds and it feels that quick. Step on the accelerator and V8 roars into life and moves you at a rate that you cannot believe is possible in a big sedan. The six-speed automatic is quick and responsive, but some will be wishing for a manual transmission to add to the enjoyment. As for handling, the SS feels like a proper performance car. Body lean and roll are kept to a minimum and steering is very responsive. Now I kind of wished for a little bit more feel and weight with the steering, but overall I was impressed. The drawback for some is that the sport suspension tuning means an uncomfortable ride. I noticed that somewhat, but it wasn't that bad compared some other models. With an as-tested pricetag of $45,570 (includes a $1,300 Gas Guzzler Tax) and a load of standard equipment such as leather sport seats, Chevrolet's MyLink, keyless entry and start, and much more; the SS may be the charm that GM has been looking for. Disclaimer: Chevrolet Provided the SS for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Chevrolet Model: SS Trim: N/A Engine: 6.2L V8 Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Rear-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 415 @ 5900 Torque @ RPM: 415 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 14/21/17 Curb Weight: 3,975 lbs Location of Manufacture: Elizabeth, Australia Base Price: $43,475 As Tested Price: $45,770 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge and $1,300 Gas Guzzler Tax) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
Subcompacts tend to have that one thing, a gimmick or feature that they try to put out there as a selling point. We have models that are fun to drive, get good gas mileage, have the back seat space of a midsize, etc. The 2015 Honda Fit is no exception to this rule. As I found out at the MAMA Spring Rally, Honda is playing the versatility card with the Fit. The back seat in the Fit is what Honda calls the 'magic seat' and there is reason why. The back seat can be folded in a number of configurations to allow tall items to stand in back; create a flat floor delivering 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space; fold the front passenger seat along with the back seat to fit an eight-foot object (surfboard, ladder, etc); or have the back seat up and fold both front seats down to provide a nice space to lay down. Describing it seems a bit funny, but actually having someone demonstrate it from Honda and then trying it out for myself, I was really impressed. Aside from the clever seating, Honda has classed up the Fit. A new dashboard design with better materials and a cleaned up center stack make the Fit a nice place to be in. The optional infotainment system features the latest version of HondaLink which comes with a new interface. I like the interface as its easy to read and navigate. What I'm not so keen on is Honda's choice of using capactive touch controls for the volume and seek since it takes a couple of times for it to be registered. Stepping outside and looking around the Fit, Honda has designed the Fit to be more in line with other Honda vehicles. This is apparent up front where the grille and headlights are reminiscent to the Civic. I understand what Honda is trying to do with the design, but I Iiked the alien shape of the previous model and wished Honda built upon that. Powering the Fit is a all new 1.5L four-cylinder with Earth Dreams technology. The 1.5L makes 130 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This was paired up to a CVT, though a six-speed manual is available. Like most subcompacts, the Fit's power lies towards the top of the rpm range. Great for driving on the backroads, but a little bit buzzy when driving in the city. The back roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin also revealed another big change for the Fit. The previous Fit was known as being a fun to drive subcompact vehicle. The 2015 Fit loses some of that the suspension doesn't quite handle the way a Chevrolet Sonic does, nor is the steering as sharp. Plus side: Fit exhibits some impressive ride quality when driven over rough surfaces. While its versatility may be its trump card, the 2015 Fit has a few other qualities that make a real contender in the subcompact class. Disclaimer: Honda Provided the Fit for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Honda Model: Fit Trim: EX-L Navi Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Earth Dreams Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6600 Torque @ RPM: 114 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 32/38/35 Curb Weight: 2,642 lbs Location of Manufacture: Celaya, Mexico Base Price: $20,800 As Tested Price: $21,590 (Includes $790.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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Subcompacts tend to have that one thing, a gimmick or feature that they try to put out there as a selling point. We have models that are fun to drive, get good gas mileage, have the back seat space of a midsize, etc. The 2015 Honda Fit is no exception to this rule. As I found out at the MAMA Spring Rally, Honda is playing the versatility card with the Fit. The back seat in the Fit is what Honda calls the 'magic seat' and there is reason why. The back seat can be folded in a number of configurations to allow tall items to stand in back; create a flat floor delivering 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space; fold the front passenger seat along with the back seat to fit an eight-foot object (surfboard, ladder, etc); or have the back seat up and fold both front seats down to provide a nice space to lay down. Describing it seems a bit funny, but actually having someone demonstrate it from Honda and then trying it out for myself, I was really impressed. Aside from the clever seating, Honda has classed up the Fit. A new dashboard design with better materials and a cleaned up center stack make the Fit a nice place to be in. The optional infotainment system features the latest version of HondaLink which comes with a new interface. I like the interface as its easy to read and navigate. What I'm not so keen on is Honda's choice of using capactive touch controls for the volume and seek since it takes a couple of times for it to be registered. Stepping outside and looking around the Fit, Honda has designed the Fit to be more in line with other Honda vehicles. This is apparent up front where the grille and headlights are reminiscent to the Civic. I understand what Honda is trying to do with the design, but I Iiked the alien shape of the previous model and wished Honda built upon that. Powering the Fit is a all new 1.5L four-cylinder with Earth Dreams technology. The 1.5L makes 130 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This was paired up to a CVT, though a six-speed manual is available. Like most subcompacts, the Fit's power lies towards the top of the rpm range. Great for driving on the backroads, but a little bit buzzy when driving in the city. The back roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin also revealed another big change for the Fit. The previous Fit was known as being a fun to drive subcompact vehicle. The 2015 Fit loses some of that the suspension doesn't quite handle the way a Chevrolet Sonic does, nor is the steering as sharp. Plus side: Fit exhibits some impressive ride quality when driven over rough surfaces. While its versatility may be its trump card, the 2015 Fit has a few other qualities that make a real contender in the subcompact class. Disclaimer: Honda Provided the Fit for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Honda Model: Fit Trim: EX-L Navi Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Earth Dreams Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6600 Torque @ RPM: 114 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 32/38/35 Curb Weight: 2,642 lbs Location of Manufacture: Celaya, Mexico Base Price: $20,800 As Tested Price: $21,590 (Includes $790.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
My eyes almost dropped out of my head as I reading through the window sticker on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. $63,815 as equipped?! ARE THEY SERIOUS?! I get the CLA45 AMG features one of the most one of the most powerful four-cylinders on sale and that AMG worked its magic all over the place. But almost $64,000?! This had better impress I thought as I got into the vehicle. Well the CLA45's exterior does. The shape is very much a downsized CLS-Class and that is very much a good thing. The long-flowing front end, high belt line, sculpting on the doors, and short rear make the CLA a standout in the entry-level luxury class. This gets amped up with AMG bits such as new side skirts, front bumper, mesh grille, and rear diffuser. The only part I didn't like was the optional nineteen-inch, sixteen-spoke wheels. I just felt it made the design look like its trying too hard. Stick with the standard wheels. The interior is another story. While Mercedes-Benz and AMG have tried their best to make CLA45 AMG feel very luxurious and premium, there are parts where some cheapness make an appearance. For example, certain trim pieces look and felt cheap. Then there is the optional COMMAND infotainment screen which looks like Mercedes-Benz stuck one of those TomTom portable navigation units on top of the dash. As I said at the beginning, the CLA45 AMG has one the most powerful four-cylinders available today. That four-cylinder happens to be a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. But when you get into it for the first time and hit the accelerator, there is this dead zone of power before the turbo spools up. Most likely this is an effort to improve fuel economy. Once the turbo does spool up, power comes in rapidly. This is accompanied by snorty engine note. But the achilles heel of the CLA45 AMG is the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The transmission hesitates when you're leaving a stop and seems to be confused of when it needs to up or downshift. I found that putting the transmission in the manual mode and using the paddles made it more enjoyable. I think if Mercedes-Benz had a bit more time to work on this dual-clutch transmission, it would be so much better. On the handling front, the CLA45 AMG features revised suspension setup from AMG and a all-wheel drive system. Paired together, they make CLA45 AMG a joy to play around in. Body motions are kept in check, and the all-wheel drive system works its magic to keep power flowing and the vehicle on course. Steering has a nice heft to it and the feedback is plentiful. The only item I wish Mercedes would add is some sort of adjustable dampers. While I felt the firm ride was perfect on the curvy bits, it would be too much if I had to drive this daily. The CLA45 AMG has some things I do like, such as the powertrain and looks. But other parts like the transmission and certain choices on the interior make me wonder why. Throw in that as-tested price, and the CLA45 AMG just seems too crazy for its own good. Disclaimer: Mercedes-Benz Provided the CLA45 AMG for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: CLA Trim: CLA45 AMG Engine: 2.0L Inline-Four Turbocharged Engine Driveline: Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Gearbox, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 355 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 332 @ 1,250 to 4,000 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - N/A Curb Weight: 3,494 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $47,450 As Tested Price: $63,815 (Includes $925.00 Destination Charge) Options: Black “Red Cut” Leather w/ AMG Performance Seats - $3,750 Driver Assistance Package - $2,500 Multimedia Package - $2,370 Premium Package - $2,300 Panorama Sunroof - $1,480 PARKTRONIC with Advanced Parking Assist - $970 19” 16-Spoke Alloy Wheel ~ Black - $850 Mountain Gray Paint Color - $720 AMG Performance Steering Wheel - $500 William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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My eyes almost dropped out of my head as I reading through the window sticker on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG. $63,815 as equipped?! ARE THEY SERIOUS?! I get the CLA45 AMG features one of the most one of the most powerful four-cylinders on sale and that AMG worked its magic all over the place. But almost $64,000?! This had better impress I thought as I got into the vehicle. Well the CLA45's exterior does. The shape is very much a downsized CLS-Class and that is very much a good thing. The long-flowing front end, high belt line, sculpting on the doors, and short rear make the CLA a standout in the entry-level luxury class. This gets amped up with AMG bits such as new side skirts, front bumper, mesh grille, and rear diffuser. The only part I didn't like was the optional nineteen-inch, sixteen-spoke wheels. I just felt it made the design look like its trying too hard. Stick with the standard wheels. The interior is another story. While Mercedes-Benz and AMG have tried their best to make CLA45 AMG feel very luxurious and premium, there are parts where some cheapness make an appearance. For example, certain trim pieces look and felt cheap. Then there is the optional COMMAND infotainment screen which looks like Mercedes-Benz stuck one of those TomTom portable navigation units on top of the dash. As I said at the beginning, the CLA45 AMG has one the most powerful four-cylinders available today. That four-cylinder happens to be a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with 355 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. But when you get into it for the first time and hit the accelerator, there is this dead zone of power before the turbo spools up. Most likely this is an effort to improve fuel economy. Once the turbo does spool up, power comes in rapidly. This is accompanied by snorty engine note. But the achilles heel of the CLA45 AMG is the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The transmission hesitates when you're leaving a stop and seems to be confused of when it needs to up or downshift. I found that putting the transmission in the manual mode and using the paddles made it more enjoyable. I think if Mercedes-Benz had a bit more time to work on this dual-clutch transmission, it would be so much better. On the handling front, the CLA45 AMG features revised suspension setup from AMG and a all-wheel drive system. Paired together, they make CLA45 AMG a joy to play around in. Body motions are kept in check, and the all-wheel drive system works its magic to keep power flowing and the vehicle on course. Steering has a nice heft to it and the feedback is plentiful. The only item I wish Mercedes would add is some sort of adjustable dampers. While I felt the firm ride was perfect on the curvy bits, it would be too much if I had to drive this daily. The CLA45 AMG has some things I do like, such as the powertrain and looks. But other parts like the transmission and certain choices on the interior make me wonder why. Throw in that as-tested price, and the CLA45 AMG just seems too crazy for its own good. Disclaimer: Mercedes-Benz Provided the CLA45 AMG for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: CLA Trim: CLA45 AMG Engine: 2.0L Inline-Four Turbocharged Engine Driveline: Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Gearbox, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 355 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 332 @ 1,250 to 4,000 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - N/A Curb Weight: 3,494 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $47,450 As Tested Price: $63,815 (Includes $925.00 Destination Charge) Options: Black “Red Cut” Leather w/ AMG Performance Seats - $3,750 Driver Assistance Package - $2,500 Multimedia Package - $2,370 Premium Package - $2,300 Panorama Sunroof - $1,480 PARKTRONIC with Advanced Parking Assist - $970 19” 16-Spoke Alloy Wheel ~ Black - $850 Mountain Gray Paint Color - $720 AMG Performance Steering Wheel - $500 William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
As the group of journalists were finishing up lunch and listening to closing statements of a presentation, the thoughts of many turned to what they would like to get their hands on next. Would it be the Jaguar F-Type? Maybe the Corvette Stingray? How about the SRT Viper? Yours truly had this same thought as well, but it wasn't towards to any of those vehicles mentioned. Instead, what I had my eye on was a yellow vehicle with NYC taxi graphics. Yep, I had my sights set on the Nissan NV200 Taxi. Trying to figure why I would want to drive a taxi cab of all things when there is a multitude of other vehicles that many would say are much more desirable could take years to figure out, so lets skip that and talk about the vehicle itself. The NV200 Taxi is a fully functional taxi cab with such items as the bright yellow paint, lights on the roof, the divider between the front and back, and other details. Sitting in the back is alright with loads of head and legroom. There's also enough space for a wheelchair fit back here (the NV200 has an integrated ramp to allow one to enter). As for the driver, controls are logically laid out and the front seat is pretty comfortable. Power comes from a 2.0L four-cylinder with 131 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque, mated to a CVT. On city roads, the engine is more than plenty to get up to such speeds as 25 to 35 MPH. On the country roads of Elkhart Lake, the engine really had to pushed to get up to speed (55 MPH) and the CVT didn't really help matters as the drone would come in. Ride quality is really good. The NV200 Taxi's suspension setup soaks up bumps and ruts to make the trip feel somewhat relaxed. The same cannot be said when you take it into corner as the NV200 Taxi has the handling characteristics of a plat of Jello. If your taxi driver decides to a turn a little too quickly in the NV200 Taxi, hold on to dear life. Whether or not the NV200 Taxi becomes commonplace on New York streets remains to be seen. But Nissan has interesting option for those taxi operators who want something a bit versatile. Disclaimer: Nissan Provided the NV200 Taxi for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Nissan Model: NV200 Taxi Trim: N/A Engine: 2.0L Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 131 @ 5,200 Torque @ RPM: 139 @ 4,800 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 23/26/24 Curb Weight: N/A Location of Manufacture: Civac, Mexico Base Price: $29,700 As Tested Price: $30,560 (Includes $860.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
As the group of journalists were finishing up lunch and listening to closing statements of a presentation, the thoughts of many turned to what they would like to get their hands on next. Would it be the Jaguar F-Type? Maybe the Corvette Stingray? How about the SRT Viper? Yours truly had this same thought as well, but it wasn't towards to any of those vehicles mentioned. Instead, what I had my eye on was a yellow vehicle with NYC taxi graphics. Yep, I had my sights set on the Nissan NV200 Taxi. Trying to figure why I would want to drive a taxi cab of all things when there is a multitude of other vehicles that many would say are much more desirable could take years to figure out, so lets skip that and talk about the vehicle itself. The NV200 Taxi is a fully functional taxi cab with such items as the bright yellow paint, lights on the roof, the divider between the front and back, and other details. Sitting in the back is alright with loads of head and legroom. There's also enough space for a wheelchair fit back here (the NV200 has an integrated ramp to allow one to enter). As for the driver, controls are logically laid out and the front seat is pretty comfortable. Power comes from a 2.0L four-cylinder with 131 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque, mated to a CVT. On city roads, the engine is more than plenty to get up to such speeds as 25 to 35 MPH. On the country roads of Elkhart Lake, the engine really had to pushed to get up to speed (55 MPH) and the CVT didn't really help matters as the drone would come in. Ride quality is really good. The NV200 Taxi's suspension setup soaks up bumps and ruts to make the trip feel somewhat relaxed. The same cannot be said when you take it into corner as the NV200 Taxi has the handling characteristics of a plat of Jello. If your taxi driver decides to a turn a little too quickly in the NV200 Taxi, hold on to dear life. Whether or not the NV200 Taxi becomes commonplace on New York streets remains to be seen. But Nissan has interesting option for those taxi operators who want something a bit versatile. Disclaimer: Nissan Provided the NV200 Taxi for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2014 Make: Nissan Model: NV200 Taxi Trim: N/A Engine: 2.0L Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 131 @ 5,200 Torque @ RPM: 139 @ 4,800 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 23/26/24 Curb Weight: N/A Location of Manufacture: Civac, Mexico Base Price: $29,700 As Tested Price: $30,560 (Includes $860.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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The 2015 Subaru WRX got off to a bit of a rough start when the production model was shown at the L.A. Auto Show last year. First off, the exterior looked to be a fully-watered down version of the concept that was shown earlier in the year. Then came the news that the WRX would be available with a CVT transmission. The internet seemed to implode on the basis of this news, but is it all bad? Has Subaru messed up the WRX? In a word, no. Let's begin with the CVT since that is what I drove at the MAMA Spring Rally last month. The CVT in question is Subaru's Linetronic and the company made some wise decisions for its application in the WRX. For starters, Subaru's engineers made the CVT act like an eight-speed automatic. What I mean is that transmission will mimic the shift points of a regular automatic. This carries over when the you throw it into the manual mode, where it will simulate gears. If you were to tell me to drive around in the WRX and not reveal that it has a CVT, I would have said it has a really nice automatic transmission. The big downside with going the CVT is a slight decrease in performance. The standard six-speed manual hits 60 MPH in 5.4 seconds, while the CVT can do the same in 5.9 seconds. Unless you live and die by how fast you can make it to the next stoplight, the performance difference is negligible. Getting you up to speed is a new turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four making 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That torque number is pretty impressive when you take into consideration that its available from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. This engine has a lot of scoot and moves with authority when exiting a corner. Finishing off the powertrain is Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which keeps the WRX on course. Driving along the back roads in Elkhart Lake, I was impressed by how well the WRX corner. There was no noticeable body roll and the car seemed to hold on to road with superglue. Steering was very responsive and provided good feedback. Now to the exterior. Let's be honest for a moment, the WRX in all of its incarnation has never been a pretty vehicle. At least with the 2015, Subaru is trying a little bit harder to make it a little bit different than the standard Impreza. The WRX has its own set of unique body panels, a functional hood scoop, and a rear diffuser. Some might call this too much, but I think it's just right. You need a little crazy with a sport compact car. Subaru has improved the WRX's interior from looking and feeling like something from a 1980's compact car. High-quality materials are out in force, as are nicely bolstered front seats and a flat bottom steering wheel. One downside is the placement of the trip computer as it right in line of being washed out by sunlight. In my brief time with the WRX, I came away very impressed. The addition of CVT means more people can experience the fun of this all-wheel drive rocket. Subaru didn't ruin the WRX; they made it that much better. Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX for the 2014 MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Limited Automatic Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Boxer-Four Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,800 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,000 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/21 Curb Weight: 3,433 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $31,195 As Tested Price: $31,990 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
The 2015 Subaru WRX got off to a bit of a rough start when the production model was shown at the L.A. Auto Show last year. First off, the exterior looked to be a fully-watered down version of the concept that was shown earlier in the year. Then came the news that the WRX would be available with a CVT transmission. The internet seemed to implode on the basis of this news, but is it all bad? Has Subaru messed up the WRX? In a word, no. Let's begin with the CVT since that is what I drove at the MAMA Spring Rally last month. The CVT in question is Subaru's Linetronic and the company made some wise decisions for its application in the WRX. For starters, Subaru's engineers made the CVT act like an eight-speed automatic. What I mean is that transmission will mimic the shift points of a regular automatic. This carries over when the you throw it into the manual mode, where it will simulate gears. If you were to tell me to drive around in the WRX and not reveal that it has a CVT, I would have said it has a really nice automatic transmission. The big downside with going the CVT is a slight decrease in performance. The standard six-speed manual hits 60 MPH in 5.4 seconds, while the CVT can do the same in 5.9 seconds. Unless you live and die by how fast you can make it to the next stoplight, the performance difference is negligible. Getting you up to speed is a new turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four making 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That torque number is pretty impressive when you take into consideration that its available from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. This engine has a lot of scoot and moves with authority when exiting a corner. Finishing off the powertrain is Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which keeps the WRX on course. Driving along the back roads in Elkhart Lake, I was impressed by how well the WRX corner. There was no noticeable body roll and the car seemed to hold on to road with superglue. Steering was very responsive and provided good feedback. Now to the exterior. Let's be honest for a moment, the WRX in all of its incarnation has never been a pretty vehicle. At least with the 2015, Subaru is trying a little bit harder to make it a little bit different than the standard Impreza. The WRX has its own set of unique body panels, a functional hood scoop, and a rear diffuser. Some might call this too much, but I think it's just right. You need a little crazy with a sport compact car. Subaru has improved the WRX's interior from looking and feeling like something from a 1980's compact car. High-quality materials are out in force, as are nicely bolstered front seats and a flat bottom steering wheel. One downside is the placement of the trip computer as it right in line of being washed out by sunlight. In my brief time with the WRX, I came away very impressed. The addition of CVT means more people can experience the fun of this all-wheel drive rocket. Subaru didn't ruin the WRX; they made it that much better. Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX for the 2014 MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Limited Automatic Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Boxer-Four Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,800 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,000 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/21 Curb Weight: 3,433 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $31,195 As Tested Price: $31,990 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
