Minivan? Build It A Shrine

What's your passion?  Can it fit in the Van?

All this nonsense about how women don't want to be driving minivans is just nutty.  The minivan has saved millions from backaches and headaches since its introduction and those who did the heavy lifting in minivans (Moms) should be building shrines to it.   Instead, the minivan has been snubbed.  The minivan is one of the most useful, considerate vehicles ever created.  Easy access, flat floor, plenty of seats, comfortable, high seating position.  It's just great.  And if Mom wants a sexy car, just get a second hand Miata for her and she's off to the beach to meet up with friends from high school without the kids.

Trapezoidal

I drove the Nissan Quest a few weeks ago.  Now, Nissan is known for polarizing designs.  Have you seen the Cube?  And the Quest is based on a trapezoid so it's pretty polarizing.  Gotta hand it to Nissan.  It doesn't see itself coming and going.  It has the soul of individuality.  And we all know what Goethe says about individuality: "Certain defects are necessary for the existence of individuality."  I guess what I'm saying is that I applaud Nissan for making an attempt to break the mold and by the same token I don't love, love, love the design.

But I certainly would tell my friends who are soccering and shopping that they must--absolutely must--consider a minivan and that the Nissan Quest is one to test drive.

Note the ambient temperature on the nav screen

My test car was the 2012 Quest 3.5 LE powered by a 3.5 liter 6-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.  Fuel economy is an undistinguished 19 City/24 Highway.

The vehicle is pretty packed with options including  it cost $42,365 including destination charge. Not cheap.  But it has desirables inside and out.  Power seats, fold-flat second row Captain's chairs, second row sliding and reclining Captain's chairs, leather and wood appointments, tilt and telescoping steering column, navigation, a well equipped entertainment system, automatic Xenon headlights and foglights, one touch power sliding doors and liftgate, 18" aluminum alloy wheels and state of the art safety.
I don't have kids, but I'm all about taking this land craft on a big, big road trip.  Sleep in the back, cook out?  I'm on it.  

 

Art of Another Kind at the Guggenheim

Rothko

Art of Another Kind at the Goog is sponsored by BMW, which is my segue.  The exhibit, which runs until September 12 is a retrospective of non-objective paintings and sculpture.  There are about 100 works by 70 artists inclduing  Karel Appel, Louise Bourgeois, Lucio Fontana, Grace Hartigan, Ybes Klein, Willem DeKooning, Isamu Noguchi, Jackson Pollock, Takeo Yamaguchi among others. The exhibit explores international trends in abstraction in the decade before the Guggenheim opened in October 1959.  It was a time when vanguard artists working in the U.S and Europe pioneered abstract expressionism, Cobra and Art Informel.  It was an exciting and open time in the art world.  Ii thought the exhibit brought these artists back into focus and I was happy to visit old friends and meet some new ones.  Something well worth doing on a hot weekend in the city.  There's a cafe at the Goog and at the church next door where I overheard a guy having a piece of quiche (and he was a real man) say, "Not for nothin' this quiche is pretty good.  For a church?"

Appel

One of the things that struck me was how many of the represented artists hailed from small towns and hamlets.  Jackson Pollock--Cody, WY, Clifford Still--Grandin, ND, Ad Reinhardt--Buffalo, NY (OK not a small town), Mark Rothko, Dvinsk, Russia (I haven't a clue.)

Noguchi

Hartigan

Hope you'll take the time to see this wonderful exhibit.

OFFROAD IN NEW YORK CITY? YES WE CAN.

It was a day like this.  Rainy, overcast, depressing.  Or it would have been depressing but I got invited by good-looking biker and director of communications for the Motorcycle Industry Association, Ty VanHooydonk to join him along with The Recreational Off-highway Vehicle Association to ride ROVs on Randall’s Island under the Robert F. Kennedy (aka Triborough) bridge. David Alan Grier, who was nominated for a Tony this year for his role as Sportin’ Life in Porgy and Bess, was also along for the ride. Who could resist?

Randall’s Island is located on the East River between East Harlem, the South Bronx and Astoria, Queens.  The island has great views of the East River. Aside: Randall’s Island is where Robert Moses operated his fiefdom.    

The first thing we learn in our ROV session is that ROV’s aren’t ATVs.  ROVs have a steering wheel, acceleration foot pedal and a brake foot pedal and they are “driven.”  ATVs have a handlebar for steering, a throttle controlled by pushing a thumb lever next to the handgrip and a hand lever(s) for front and/or rear brake(s) and a foot pedal for the rear brake.  ATVs are “ridden” , not driven.  Unlike ATVs, which can be ridden by small children, ROVs are designed to be driven by those who are 16 or over.  ROVs have rollover protection, side panel doors or netting for protection, grab handles and can accommodate passengers and cargo.

Under a bridge in the middle of rain day in New York on an island other than Manhattan one could not help feeling very Schwarzeneggerish.  We are a small band of rov-ers practicing maneuvers—backing up, going over obstacles, cornering, turning.  It was very post-apocalyptic.  But fun, don’t get me wrong.  I loved every minute of it. 

We learned some rules of the road.  Safety is emphasized.  Wear the right gear including helmet, gloves, long pants, sturdy jacket.  Familiarize yourself with your vehicle.  Learn the capabilities of the different vehicles.  We did not have a steep incline to try, but the instructors assured us that they climb with ease.  Then we hit the trail and rode around Randall's Island. 

Several different manufacturers make these ROVs including Arctic Cat, BRP, Kawasaki,  Polaris and Yamaha.  There’s even an all electric, which allows you to enjoy the outdoors without the accompanying sound of a motor.  I love that!

The ROVHA offers a basic training course online (www.rovha.org).  Take the course if you are considering getting involved in this sport.  One can improve skills beyond basic but it takes some seat time.  No one should feel they know it all—ever.  When VanHooydonk and I chatted about motorcycle riding a few years ago he mentioned he’d be riding for over 20 years and was still learning.  That impressed on me the need to know your level and your limitations. 

The ROHVA is also a member of TreadLightly (www.treadlightly.org), encouraging participants to take care of the environment they enjoy. 

Was it fun?  You bet.  Can you role play as you learn?  I did.  I’d love to know what role David Alan Grier was playing in his head, but I didn’t get a chance to ask him.  He had to get back to NYC for his evening performance in Porgy and Bess.  Talk about fun.

PRICING FOR FUEL-EFFICIENT BEETLE TDI® CLEAN DIESEL COUPE

Awwww.

The only Clean Diesel offering in the compact coupe category goes on sale in August

• Volkswagen’s sixth TDI® Clean Diesel model available in the U.S.

Herndon, VA -  Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced pricing for the Beetle TDI® Clean Diesel coupe. The Beetle TDI is the third model in the Beetle lineup and joins the 2.5-liter five-cylinder and 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline models, which launched to great acclaim in 2011. The Beetle TDI features VW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injection Clean Diesel engine that produces 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. When equipped with a manual transmission, the model has manufacturer fuel economy estimates of 41 mpg highway and 32 mpg city.

Model Lineup
Three trims are available with the TDI® Clean Diesel powertrain. All models feature a standard six-speed manual transmission with Volkswagen’s acclaimed six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission as an option. All three are very well equipped, with standard features such as power windows with one-touch up/down; cruise control; V-Tex Leatherette seating; front-center armrest; the “Käeferfach” secondary glovebox; Bluetooth® technology; leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with audio controls; three-color ambient lighting; auxiliary instrument package; Keyless entry with push-button start; SiriusXM Satellite Radio®; and a Media Device Interface with iPod® cable.

TDI
Manual $23,295
Automatic $24,395
The base TDI model comes standard with unique 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, all the equipment listed above, and an interior and exterior chrome package. The standard RCD310 audio system has an AM/FM radio, CD player, Bluetooth® technology, SiriusXM Satellite Radio® and eight speakers

TDI with Sunroof
Manual $24,895
Automatic $25,995
This model adds a panoramic tilt/slide sunroof and Volkswagen’s touchscreen Premium VIII radio to the Beetle TDI trim.

TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation
Manual $26,195
Automatic $27,295
In addition to the above features, the top model includes the RNS 315 navigation system and the award-winning Fender® Premium Audio system.

All prices exclude a destination charge of $770.

2013 Beetle TDI Pricing
Model	Price	Features
TDI manual         automatic	$23,295 $24,395	2.0L 140 hp TDI® engine, six-speed manual transmission; 17-inch alloy wheels; power windows with one-touch up/down; cruise-control; V-Tex leatherette seating; trip computer; front center-armrest; auxiliary instrument package; keyless access with push-button start; RCD 310 eight-speaker sound system with aux-in and Media Device Interface with iPod® cable; SiriusXM® Satellite Radio; three-color ambient lighting + Six-speed DSG® transmission
TDI w/ Sunroof manual auto	$24,895 $25,995	(Includes Beetle TDI features) + Panoramic sunroof with power tilt and slide + Six-speed DSG® transmission
TDI w/ Sunroof, Sound, and Navi manual auto	$26,195 $27,295	(Includes TDI w/ Sunroof features) + RNS 315 touchscreen navigation, Fender Premium Audio System + six-speed DSG® transmission
Destination	$     770	All Prices Exclude Destination Charge

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen’s operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, Golf R, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.

“DSG”, “TDI”, “VW”, “Volkswagen”, all model names and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. “Bluetooth” is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. “Fender” is a registered trademark of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. “iPod” is a registered trademark of Apple, Inc. “SiriusXM” and “SiriusXM Satellite Radio” are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio, Inc.

Where stated, fuel economy values (mpg) are EPA estimates. All other fuel economy values are forecast manufacturer values for the USA; those EPA estimates were not available at time of release.

MSRPs exclude taxes, title, options, and dealer charges.

Kia Optima Hybrid

Love those foxy 17" wheels.

Call it fuel economy (FE) if you want but I'm calling it an elegant little package.  The Kia Optima Hybrid did fine on the FE front at an average of 37 mpg.  I was able to keep my eye on the energy indicator on the dash--a green bar--without taking my eyes off the road.  Psychological support for virtuous driving.

How green is my instrument panel?

My car was powered by a 2.4 liter 4 cylinder hybrid engine paired with a 6 speed sportmatic transmission.  The electric power steering left me a little cold--not much feel there but this is a universal complaint about electric steering.
I love the looks of this car.  The design of the Optima doesn't scream hybrid (meaning that I think we're over mere posturing and getting down to some serious personal environmental decision making).  The overall look is low and sloopy--making it one sexy sedan.  The low sloopy business creates a headroom problem in the front so my tall tester (architect Rob Whitlock 6'4") won't be buying this one.  But those of us who do fit under the headliner find the interior design and appointments from fabric to instrument panel very pleasing.  This is just me, but I'd rather be pleased than polarized by my daily driver. 
One thing we did notice is that the batteries cause serious weight gain.  Gross vehicle weight (which includes the curb weight plus passengers and cargo) is over 4,000 pounds!

Nifty seats.

Government safety rates this as five star for frontal, rollover and side rear seat crash.   It has only a three star rating for side front seat crash.

As equipped my hybrid Optima cost $32, 620 including delivery charges.  That also includes $5, 350 for a premium technology package.  The base price without the bells and whistles is $25,700.  The Optima competes with the Toyota Prius, which has a base price of $24,000 and gets better mileage, 51 city/48 highway.  I'm in awe of the Prius and its new "c" model, but I have to say I like the package on the Optima better.

One thing you can count on with Kia.  They are determined, which means they don't want to give you any reason to say no.  The cars are packed with content, they're great cars and the warranty––10 years, 100,000 miles––can't be beat.  I talk cars with a lot of people.  Many of them still say, "Really?" when I recommend they test drive a Kia.  Stop already.  Yeees, really.

Make Lots of New Friends--Drive the Jag XK

Amazing how quickly one's image can go from I'm-not-quite-sure-how-I-come-across to my-my-aren't-I-just-the-most-sought-after-person-on-the-street.  No I didn't lose 50 pounds or dye my hair or inherit a million dollars.  I drove a crystal blue Jaguar XK with a charcoal and ivory interior over the weekend.  Suddenly I'm getting invited to Saratoga for brunch and people are bringing over bunches of flowers and offering to help me with my errands.  I am the most popular girl in town for one whole weekend.

It was worth getting 16 city/ 24 highway to cruise Broadway, Saratoga's main street.  It was a beautiful spring day--unseasonably warm for early May.  The sun was shining.  The streets were packed with people and all heads--children, adults, seniors, women and men–– turned to look at us in the car.  Their eyes followed us as we passed and they kept looking as we slowly advanced.  The rear view of this car is so beautiful, you could not help staring. 

2012 XK

2012 XKR

Jaguar is so confident that it doesn't even have a V6 engine.  My XK had a 385 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.  The paddle shifters aren't ironic as they are in some vehicles.  They really fit the driving experience of the car.

There are many lux-o vehicles I don't want, not because they aren't great but they don't jive with my personality.  I would have these brake shoes under the bed, however.  Smooth, elegant ride.  Having problems with your image even if you got a bonus last year?  Here are two ideas:  go out and do something life changing for your community and go test drive the XK.  You'll be writing a check for this baby that will take about $91,350 (my vehicle as equipped with a base price of $84,500) out of your account.

"Approximately 50% of Jag buyers are concentrated in Metro New York City, southern
California and southeast Florida," says Stuart Schorr, PR chief for Jaguar/Land Rover.  "Probably 65% of our buyers are men, thoughthe percent of women drivers may be higher than purchasers."  That I think must be true.  Behind every car buying decision is a GirlDriver.

Toyota's Rav4

I forgot I was driving a crossover.  The 2012 Toyota Rav4 is so agile that I just forgot I had all that passenger room and storage space behind me.  I really enjoyed driving the Rav4.

For most of the people in my extended circle of friends, relatives and acquaintances, this vehicle would be enough.  Sure, I have about the same percentage of performance freaks in my circle as there are in the universe, but they are not the majority.

Underlying my recommendation is my belief that Toyota is a dedicated and reliable maker of vehicles.  And I'm not alone.  Despite a very challenging period in Toyota's history including the negative press regarding unintended acceleration, the natural disasters in Japan and Thailand, the strong yen, the customers have remained loyal.  Net revenues were down 2.2 percent for fiscal year ending March 31, 2012.

This 5-door, 4x4 is powered by a 3.5 liter DOHC (double overhead cam valve) V6 that produces 269 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 246 ft-lbs of torque at 4600 rpm.  It has dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) which optimizes the rpms and controls the valve lifts resulting in a more efficient engine performance.  The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.  It has on demand 4-wheel drive, an electric power steering system and a sport-tuned suspension.

The cost of my vehicle with something called the extra value package MSRP discount (Basically, they threw in the delivery charge.) is $29,497.  I think its a handsome package for that money.

Fuel economy is 19 city/26 highway.  OK, not great.  Annual fuel cost is estimated at $2,500.  The 4-cylinder Rav4 has fuel economy of 22 city/28 highway.  Toyota, how about a turbo on that four?

One thing that annoys me in cars is the overly complex navigation/sound/ etc. systems.  Hats off to Toyota for keeping it simple.  I was able to check my fuel economy instantly and as an average by pressing a simple round button on the steering wheel.  It just proves that you can have your heart's desire without going through 50 steps to get a radio station.  I just hate that.

The cabin is very nicely appointed, comfortable seats, nice-to-the-touch use of materials. 

The Rav4 will debut later this year as an all-electric SUV has an expected driving range rating of approximately 100 miles and charging time of approximately six hours on a 240V/40A charger. The RAV4 EV’s driving performance, dynamics and cargo capacity are equal to or exceed the gas powered RAV4 V6. Arriving fully-equipped with an MSRP of $49,800 the RAV4 EV doesn’t compromise on performance, comfort or versatility.

Look also at the Mazda CX5, Honda Pilot, Chevy Equinox. Jeep Liberty, Nissan Pathfinder.