2009 Toyota Matrix

By: Juan G. Robbin

Quality blended with versatility and practicality
Toyota Corolla Matrix XRS (2009)

Redesigned and all new-for 2009, the Toyota Matrix has evolved into a comfortable and practical vehicle that is a great fit for most uses. Its size makes it easy to maneuver in an urban environment, while giving you the feeling of being in a spacious yet compact crossover style car. In fact, the Matrix is one of the pioneers of the crossover segment.

The use of space inside has been optimized by the redesign of the seats and interior. Once seated in the comfortable sports inspired front seats you are instantly drawn to the center dash, which feels as if it’s floating rather than being anchored to the floor. All of the controls are exactly where you would naturally expect them to be, so much so that one can find most of them without even looking. Bravo Toyota!  There are numerous storage areas and cubby holes throughout, including a nice flat compartment within the glove box.

Driving the Toyota Matrix gives the feeling of being in a tight, well engineered stable vehicle. There is nothing that makes it outstanding performance wise, but it wasn’t designed to be a high performance vehicle either. The whole package works well together, such as excellent interior ergonomics, good all around visibility and direct, yet subtle feedback from its steering and suspension. Ride is quiet and comfortable; however, we did notice that the engine does get a bit noisy when accelerating, especially at highway speeds.

Rear seat is comfortable, with good ventilation and leg room. A fifth person fits but elbow room would be a bit tight. Rear cargo area is large, convenient and expandable by folding of the rear 60/40 split seats. 

With its modern styling, comfortable interior and Toyota quality, the all-new-for 2009 Matrix is definitely worth a closer look.

MSRP: $21,850.00   MSRP (As tested): $24,759.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 21 MPG in mixed driving
Engine: 4 cylinder, 2.4 liter, 158 HP
Popular Options: Remote keyless entry, sunroof.
Visit: www.toyota.com

2009 Mini Cooper S

By: Juan G. Robbin

More of a good thing
Mini Cooper S (2009)

Can the gurus at Mini really go two for two with the second generation (Mk. 2) version of the now ubiquitous Mini Cooper? After 400 miles and seven days with the second generation Cooper S the answer is a resounding YES!

It’s “out” with the anemic supercharged engine that lagged noticeably at low RPM’s and slow urban traffic and “in” with the noticeably more powerful turbocharged engine. It responds with lightning quick reflexes and more oomph, giving many more smiles per miles than the 1st generation Cooper S ever did.

The car looks the same to the untrained eye, but there is over 75% new sheet metal in the latest version, making it a bit longer than the Mk.1, especially where it counts-the back seat and trunk. The famous center mounted speedometer is even larger than before, now everyone, including those driving next to you can see your speedometer! The center dash has changed dramatically and regrettably, not for the better, as there is an integrated sound system together with the onboard vehicle information that is difficult to figure out by simply being inquisitive with the buttons. The layout is an ergonomic mess. I found myself reaching for a volume knob and finding it’s the tuning/program selector for the information system. Why? There is no need to get creative with proven, standard easy to decipher volume knob placement. There is no longer a conventional key. Mini has joined the touch start band wagon with an orb-looking key fob that can be left in your pocket after you have taken it out to unlock the car. Yes, the price one pays for being chic.

The transmission and the six gears are quite direct and smooth, even while spirited driving. The clutch is more responsive than the Mk.1 version as is the steering feedback, especially at slow speeds. We loved the quick response every time we floored the accelerator. There is a direct, linear, smooth feedback that was lacking with the 1st generation car.  Under hard acceleration there is a hint of torque steer, but quite manageable really. Cornering in the Mini Cooper S is still one of the most fun and satisfying maneuvers one can do in this car. Having the four wheels pushed out to the far corners causes it to almost defy the laws of physics and gravity every time the driver throws it into a curve. Brakes are excellent, giving a surprisingly strong performance even in an impromptu 60-0 MPH panic stop. No fuss, just superb stopping power with little if any brake-fade.

Interior fit and finish is dramatically improved over the Mk.1 version. There is more room throughout as well as more cubby/storage areas. Quality of the interior materials is definitely better, with noticeable tactile feel as well as smooth operation of the switchgear and appointments.

Rear seat is marginally useful but they are there in case of a pinch. Trunk space is small but usually enough for most uses. Folding the rear seats forward gives the Mini Cooper owner tremendous amounts of room for this size of a car; here is where the interior flexibility comes into play.

The 2009 Mini Cooper S, incredibly fun, comfortable and efficient. It’s more of a good thing.

MSRP:  $21,950.00  MSRP (As tested): $24,100.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 28.4 MPG
Engine: 4 Cylinder, 1.6 liter, 172 HP Turbocharged
Popular Options: Sport Package, multi-function steering wheel, heated front seats, Nav. system.
Visit: www.miniusa.com

2009 Lincoln MKS

By: Juan G. Robbin
An American mid-sized sports sedan with a European soul
Lincoln MKS (2009)

What do you get when you cross a Mercedes-Benz E Class, a Jaguar S Type and a BMW 5 Series? You get a Lincoln MKS. There is beauty in its skin but more importantly a potent well executed integration of design and technology. The exterior looks are show-car like, especially with its optional 19” unique looking wheels and low profile tires. The front grille is modern yet evoking the classic looks of the Lincoln of yesteryear. The side profile is sleek yet powerful with its high belt line as well as a strong, angular rear deck with elegant dual exhaust chromed tips. 

Inside there are still some noticeable Ford parts bin items but fortunately, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Interior fit and finish is remarkably good, no, make that incredibly good. There are some interior components that fall a bit short on workmanship, such as the sloppy gear selector and a center console that feels flimsy. These, I am sure, will be improved as production line issues are dealt with.

Seats are the optional sports version that simply put, felt heavenly. Controls and appointments are exactly as you expect them to be in this type of a luxury sedan, well laid out and with good quality overall. Our press-fleet vehicle came equipped with the optional Microsoft “Sync” integrated multi-function system that is a cut above anything in the market today. Bluetooth hands-free phone set up is a bit cumbersome, but once it’s done there is no need to reset it. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for multi-function display neophytes. It works so well that most people will not want to use any other multi-function system, period. Of course, the Sync system integrates all of your onboard entertainment (Sound system is driven with THX-II technology), phone, GPS navigation as well as Sirius Satellite information which include multiple channels of music, weather, fuel stations (with pricing) as well as movies with locations and times.

Rear seating is typical for a mid-sized sedan, comfortable for two tight for three. Leg and rear head room are good. Trunk is huge but due to the dramatically sloping rear window design it suffers from a small opening, so don’t plan on putting oversized-squared cargo in this trunk.

The highlight of this car though is how it feels when you drive it. Yes, it’s a V6 but it doesn’t feel like it. There is no hint of struggling to keep up during spirited driving, quite the contrary, it felt more like an 8 cylinder. Think of the MKS V6 engine as the “strong yet silent type.” Acceleration is good, especially for a V6. Steering, brakes and suspension feel very German, that is to say, linear and with good feedback.  In early 2009 a new “eco-boost” turbocharged engine option will be made available, making the MKS even better performance wise.

With the 2009 MKS Lincoln is definitely back!

MSRP: $39,105.00  MSRP (As tested): $45,570.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 19.2 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.7 liter, 273 HP
Popular Options: Ultimate Package (Includes Nav, voice recognition, 19” wheels, rain sensing wipers, etc.)
Visit: www.lincoln.com 

2009 Jaguar XF

By: Juan G. Robbin

Jaguar XF (2009)
One Sexy Feline

The all new-for-2009 Jaguar XF has ushered in a new era for this fabled bespoke car maker. Gone is the classic Jaguar profile of yesteryear, replaced with a new, modern look that evokes a fresh, design approach.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the exterior of the XF. Finish and panel fit is noticeably better than previous models. Doors open as a proper British car should, with aplomb and heft. Once inside, you instantly notice a very clean and uncluttered dash design, this is mainly due to the flush-when-closed HVAC vents. Jaguar PR people call the vent rotation the “Jaguar handshake.” There is no traditional gearshift, making the center console look elegant and modern. Press the pulsating amber lit start button and the show begins. The air vents start their unison rotation to the open position as well as the PRNDL gear selector “orb” slowly emanates from its flush, stowed point. One can’t help but wonder how long it will be until “Prince Lucas” (Referencing the supplier, Lucas Electrics; popular in British cars of the past, Jaguar included, who had a less than a stellar reputation for reliability). makes himself known and wreak havoc on these neat show-and-tell items. I’ll bet that the chances are slim, as Jaguar has paid close attention to getting the interior not only right, but also bringing it up a notch in terms of the level of luxury this interior delivers to the owner. Still, I would love to get my hands on this car again in five years and see how well these two gizmos are holding up to the ravages of time and repeated use.

Jaguar has done a masterful job of making the interior feel exactly as one would expect from this type of car. It all seems to work harmoniously giving the driver and passengers a palpable feeling of luxury thanks to the blend of wood, leather and fine wool carpets. One thing we did notice where the turn signal and wiper stalks on both sides of the steering wheel column felt cheap and sloppy. Not up to par on how the rest of the cabin controls feel. Part of the luxury experience is perceived on the tactile feel of interior appointments and switchgear. There should be a discernable level of quality throughout and these two stalks do not feel that way. Seating is comfortable all around. Rear seats are good for two, tight for three people. Trunk space is typical for a midsized luxury sedan.

Driving the XF is an unruffled affair with a ride that is quiet and silky smooth, both on urban streets and on the highway. This car reminded us of a German sports sedan instead of a classic British automobile because of the ride and the nice balance of direct feel and compliant luxury. Acceleration is quick; handling is tight with excellent steering feedback. Brakes are strong yet easy to manage both under hard and easy braking. The XF we drove is the standard model, with a 4.2 liter, 300 HP V8. If you long for more power, no need to fret, there is a supercharged version of the XF that gives you an additional 120 HP.

Jaguar is serious about making cars that are reliable, exciting to drive yet beautifully designed. If you are looking at a mid-sized luxury sedan from Germany, the US or Japan you should include the Jaguar XF in your short list of candidates.

MSRP: $55,200.00  MSRP (As tested): $56,950.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 20.5 MPG
Engine: V8, 4.2 liter, 300 HP
Popular Options: Premium Luxury Warm climate package
Visit: www.jaguarxf.com

2009 Ford Flex

By: Juan G. Robbin

Cool styling, fresh interior and a superb ride ! Ford has gotten its mojo back !
Ford Flex (2009)

With its distinctive and innovative design, the Ford Flex is the hippest crossover on the street today. The road presence and look of the Flex is unmistakable in a world chalk full of similar crossover designs.

Areas and curves of the innovative interior were inspired by the distinctive canister vacuum cleaner designs of the 1940’s and 1950’s that are part of the collection of the Flex chief designer, Mr. Richard Gresens. As luck would have it, Mr. Gresens was pondering how to approach a specific interior curve. He sat back and looked across his studio and instantly noticed the arc of the vacuum cleaners' canister section and there it was ! The curve he needed.

The driver and front passenger seats are noticeably comfortable. There is a new seat architecture and design that is being introduced in the Flex and will subsequently cascade into upcoming Ford models. Second row seating area is impressive not only in comfort but also in the leg room offered. There is an optional refrigerator in between the second row captain’s chairs that is sure to be a hit with families. Third row seating is comfortable, more so if the optional dual skylights are ordered. The steering wheel feel and feedback are superb, with direct and pleasant lightness. Tactile feel on the materials all over the interior is noticeably improved. Switchgear, controls, buttons and knobs are pleasant to see and use. We had a chance to drive the Ford Flex between New York City and Greenwich Connecticut recently with the optional Nav. package that included the new Microsoft SYNC voice activated and rear back up camera technologies. We came away thoroughly impressed by the way the information is presented in addition to the quality of the display graphics. We loved the SIRIUS Travel Link feature: Giving us weather, real time traffic and fuel price information. The quality of the display is impressive, specially seeing the dynamic weather map feature. The Ford Flex integrates current technology seamlessly, enhancing how we live our lives. Bravo Ford ! 

One of the distinctive design features of the Flex are the side panel grooves. These grooves give the car a smoother, longer feel to it. We specially liked the integrated front rocker panels that are attached to the door instead of the frame, no more dirty pant cuffs ! There is the dark, mysterious effect the Flex gives off due to its darkened security glass and blackened pillars, this is in addition to the unique roof colors that come in either silver or white hues. There is a fuel door with a twist, no screw-on gas cap. The door itself is the cap, so simply open the fuel door and start pumping the gas.

Driving the Flex through country roads was a treat. Handling feels more like a sedan than a crossover, wind noise is almost non existent even at highway speeds. The interior was quiet enough that conversation was easy regardless of where one sits in the Flex.

Without a doubt, the Ford Flex is one of the most innovative and interesting vehicles to come out of Detroit in years. If you are looking for a cool, multi-use vehicle or simply want to be noticed as one of the "hip crowd," then the Ford Flex should be on your short list.

The all new for 2009 Ford Flex, spectacular!

MSRP: $28,295.00 for the SE up to $34,705.00 for the LIMITED   
Fuel Economy: (Estimated): 17-24 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.5 liter, 262 HP
Popular options: Skylight roof, SIRIUS Sat radio, SYNC hands free technology
Visit: www.fordflex.com

2009 Jaguar XK-R Convertible

By: Juan G. Robbin

The art of blending luxury and performance!

Jaguar XK-R Convertible (2009)

The current Jaguar XK body style, redesigned in 2006 comes in both coupe and convertible versions. However, due to the unique sloping rear hatch design, the convertible looses its signature distinctive elegance that’s designed into the coupe. Regardless of the difference, the

XK-R convertible is all Jaguar.

You can’t help but to admire and notice the sleek, sloping shape of the hood, the classic front mesh deep grille and the unique to the XK-R optional 20” wheels. All of this plus the retro side vents behind the front wheels, giving the XK-R convertible a contemporary yet an unmistakable Jaguar flair. There are the sporty, quad exhaust tips plus the “R” logo brake calipers, giving subtle hints that this is no ordinary Jaguar.

Once seated, you are greeted by comfortable and fully adjustable leather sports seats. Rear seats are better used for extra storage as opposed to trying to squeeze in passengers. There is simply almost no room even for the smallest of persons. The center mounted multi-function display manages the sound system, vehicle trip data, navigation and ventilation. The unit processor was a bit slow executing the commands and difficult to see if the top is down during a bright, sunny day. Since we last drove the XK-R in 2007 there have been some refinements, namely the obsolete telescoping power antenna is finally gone and it’s now integrated into the rear spoiler. There is more luxurious headliner fabric being used as well as interior upgrades that emphasize luxury.

Steering is superb, with its speed adaptive system that works just as you want it. The handling is crisp and direct, with just the right touch of feedback. The exhaust is fully active, giving way from a subtle rumbling sound when cruising to a full out burbling deep power note that gives you an evil smile every time you floor the throttle. Acceleration is impressive, so are the brakes. Feeling sporty? Then put the gear selector in the sports mode and use the paddle shifters. These will reward you with quick and effortless manual shifts through the six speed range. Downshifting with the paddles will reward you with sports like heel and toe-like throttle blips on the downshift that leave you feeling oh so wonderful. The powerful supercharged V8 in the XK-R was surprisingly miserly giving us over 18 MPG in mixed driving. We noticed a big blind spot in the rear corner of the top behind the passenger’s window due to the inherent design of the soft top. Regardless, it’s the price one pays for having a soft top as compared to a foldable hard top. Trunk space is shallow and tight, but usable, it is an advantage over most hard top convertibles.

The XK-R is a sexy soft-top convertible that does everything well, with understated, yet modern style and elegance.

The 2009 Jaguar XK-R convertible: One sporty, sleek cat!

MSRP: $93,400.00 MSRP (As tested): $103,960.00

Fuel Economy: (Observed): 18.2 MPG

Engine: V8, 4.2 liter, supercharged, 420 HP

Popular options: Adaptive cruise control, Bowers & Wilkins premium sound

Visit: www.jaguarusa.com

2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC

By: Juan G. Robbin

This is not your father’s diesel 
Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC (2009) 

Mention diesel power for a passenger car and you will get all kinds of negative reactions. It’s loud, it vibrates, it smokes out the tail pipe, it smells bad and there is no convenient place to get diesel fuel.

After spending time with the 50 state-legal Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC, I can tell you that current diesel technology is light years from what was experienced back in the 1980’s. The Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC is one best all around vehicles I have driven in a long time. But before we get into the vehicle details, let’s bust some of the diesel myths using the ML320 BlueTEC as an example.

It’s loud: The ML320 BlueTEC is indiscernibly louder than its gas power equivalent with only a slight hint of diesel valve clatter.
It smokes and smells bad: Even under hard acceleration, the ML320 BlueTEC showed no smoke out the tail pipes or gave off any annoying diesel fumes.
It vibrates: Throughout the whole power band there was no noticeable vibration from the engine. In fact, we found the ML320 BlueTEC to be as smooth as any gasoline powered car.
Convenience of diesel fuel: There is a growing number of fuel stations carrying diesel fuel. Even better, use the Navi onboard navigation system and it will indicate what stations carry diesel. Of course, diesel is available in almost all highway rest stop/service stations throughout the country.
 
So, what benefits do you get with a diesel engine as compared to a gasoline equivalent? Start off with at least a 20% improvement in fuel economy. Then there is tremendous low-end torque during acceleration. Lastly, longer engine lifespan. It’s not uncommon to see 300,000 miles before requiring a major engine rebuilt on some car diesel engines.

The ML320 BlueTEC is smooth, powerful, quiet and capable. I found it to be an excellent all around vehicle for use as part of any lifestyle. The controls, buttons, switches and appointments are typical, current generation Mercedes-Benz. We liked the improved quality feel of the switchgear and buttons. However, there is a multi-function display for sound and navigation can be a bit confusing and slow to respond to some of the commands. Seats are superb all around, all around visibility is commanding, and there is good room through the ML for passengers and cargo.

Driving the ML320 BlueTEC is a joy. We found the power band and response to be exactly as needed in any road environment. Highway cruising is smooth, quiet and with plenty of power at any speed. Steering and brakes felt direct and responsive, this is good news! As we’ve noticed, these two items in past Mercedes-Benz vehicles tended to be vague and disconnected with the driver. We are glad to see Mercedes-Benz creating more of a connection between the driver and the car’s feedback.

Mercedes-Benz is a world leader in automobile diesel technology. The 2009 ML320 BlueTEC is definitely worth a look at if you are shopping for a luxury mid-size SUV with excellent economy and longevity. 
 

MSRP: $48,600.00 (As tested): $58,885.00
Fuel Economy: (Observed): 24.5 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 210 HP
Popular options: Adaptive Damping System (ADS-II), Rear seat entertainment, P01 Package includes: GPS Nav, rear view cam, 40GB hard drive, HD/Sirius Radio, Harman-Kardon upgraded sound system.
Visit: www.mbusa.com