2009 Volvo XC60 (Image provided by: Juan G. Robbin)

By: Juan G. Robbin

Evolutionary design that still looks fresh.
Volvo XC60 (2009)

The parental lineage to its big brother, the XC90 is readily apparent in the XC60 yet with freshened and updated details that is keeping this good looking design layout fresh and current.

Volvo’s image touts safety and a conservative design idea, which at times, some may say that it can be a bit dull. With the new for 2009 XC60, a subtle, yet noticeable change in philosophy has occurred. The exterior is updated with cool looking, sculpted rear lights as well as LED twilight lamps in front. The side profile of the XC60 is simply gorgeous, with the perfect proportion not only in size but also how the wheels and bumpers fit with the design. The front grille is dominated by an oversized Volvo corporate logo as well as the radar sensor for the adaptive cruise control system.

Inside you are greeted by a clean, minimalist, uncluttered Scandinavian style design. There is the optional light wood center stack appliqué as well as the easy to use HVAC controls. Seats have a unique two-tone supple leather finish that makes the interior stand out as well as being comfortable and supportive. The large panoramic glass roof creates an airy ambiance throughout the cabin, with a shoji-like electric shade that still lets filtered light shine in. Rear seats are comfortable to two, snug for three. There are innovative integrated outboard child booster seats that are a marvel of simplicity and convenience. Rear cargo space is typical for a mid-sized SUV style vehicle; with the rear seats folded forward, cargo room increases dramatically. Fit and finish even in areas like the cargo bay are first rate. Our press vehicle came with the optional DVD based navigation system that worked well with a quirky twist; all inputs are handled through a remote control. Why not keep things simple and have a touch screen system instead? Audio and ventilation information is displayed in a small center mounted hump mid dash. There is a large strip of lights in front of the driver, these are tied in to the external sensors which activate if a car comes too close or the approach speed is very high against an object. Its part of the optional technology package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, collision warning and auto brake system. The lane departure system is great feature, but it can, at times become a bit annoying. Its easily triggered by simply getting too close to a lane line. We tried the auto brake feature by putting up some Volvo supplied plastic reflective barriers; we accelerated and simply did not touch the brake. At the last second, the system sensed the barriers and activated the brakes, at times hard enough to go into the ABS zone. We tried it three times at various speeds and in every case the XC60 stopped right at the barrier. No, I didn’t try it against another object but I am sure it will work as advertised.

One of the things we liked the most on the Volvo XC60 was the cohesiveness of the controls. The way the throttle, brakes and steering felt all working in combination. Like a trio of tenors in concert. The throttle and brakes have the perfect pedal force. Easy to make smooth starts and a joy to practice “limo stops” when coming to a stop. Power from the 3.0 liter V6 engine is impressive. It’s surprisingly quick and smooth regardless of what you ask of it. Handling felt more like a sedan than a midsized crossover. Suspension feels direct and at times a bit sporty, yet never choppy or harsh. The XC60 comes with an all wheel drive system with Instant Traction, we found this system to be like a good butler, ready to assist yet totally transparent at all the right times.

The 2009 Volvo XC90 is superbly designed, perfectly sized, offering a complete package with a Zen-like feel.

The Essentials:

MSRP: $37,200.00  MSRP (As Tested): $44,240.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 17.6 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.0 liter, 281 HP
Popular options: Technology Package, Multi-media package, Mod wood center stack inlay, metallic paint.
Visit: www.volvocars.com

This and other Experience articles are available on our website: www.MotoringStyle.com

Drivers Ed
By: Dr Ray Mummery
Everybody considers themselves to be above average drivers.  This is relatively harmless until confronted with an above average challenge in driving like sudden rain, reckless drivers or a diminishing radius expressway ramp that we have approached going too fast. While we learn from our mistakes (if we survive them) it is a potentially painful and dangerous way to gain driving expertise.

Most of us learn to drive from a parent or friend, perhaps fortified by a course in Driver Education which teaches traffic rules, parking and the soon to be forgotten use of turn signals.  Driver Ed is limited to a couple of days a week in the car, which is used on Tuesday and Thursday by the Sex Education Class, and some classroom stuff that is slept through by the bored students.

Training by parents, no matter how well intentioned, is limited by the skill of the teacher and often enough after a few white knuckle trips together the student is turned loose with the usual advice “Be Careful”. This was OK in the times when I grew up with slow cars and almost empty roads. Even entry level cars today can outperform the muscle cars of the 60s and the roads are filled with fast, aggressive and rude drivers so the potential for danger is much greater.

Modern cars are engineering wonders, filled with airbags, ABS, stability control and other amazing gadgets which protect the driver but do not repeal the laws of physics and often lull the unskilled into driving over, and then on, their heads.  They also usually have high end sound systems, GPS and computer displays which also distract their new drivers. Add in several kids in the car and texting or tweeting on a cell phone and disaster becomes almost certain.

The best approach to teaching new drivers is almost certainly to enroll them into one of the many commercial driving schools like Skip Barber or the various beginning driver programs offered by the auto makers, marquee car clubs or racing groups like SCCA. All of these will show the beginner several things, starting with the most important, that they are not as good as they think they are. Next, they will demonstrate how to recognize the edges of car performance and how to control a vehicle at that limit under a controlled environment. Some of these programs are free, some expensive, but all are much cheaper than the cost of an accident and a possible trip to the hospital.

Please visit:

SCCA: www.scca.com
BMW Car Club of America: www.bmwcca.org
Skip Barber School of Racing: www.skipbarber.com
This and other Experience articles are available on our website: www.MotoringStyle.com

My Favorite Car:
By: Dr. Ray Mummery

When people learn that I have been involved in Motor Sports for many years, the third question that they ask is “what is your favorite car?”  The first one is “Have you ever had a wreck” (yes) and the second is “Do you get to score with the pretty girls that are always around the pits?” (no).

The question is harder than it looks because it is so complex.  Favorite of all the cars I know about?  Favorite of all that I have seen?  Everything I have driven?  Owned?  As a practical matter I make the cut at cars that I have driven. Then I find I need to divide them into race cars and street cars because the driving experience is so different. Finally, I think that ownership makes a difference too. Several years ago I was in a D type Jag at Road Atlanta when Brian Redman walked by and said “Be careful with that”.  I told him it wasn’t my car and his rejoinder was “That’s not what I meant”  His point was well made when the car got very nose light down the back straight and I took a wild ride up under the bridge and down the hill in front of the pits (where the owner was standing).

Several stand out among the race cars. The greatest sense of achievement happened with an Argo/Mazda that I co drove to victory in a Daytona 24 hour race. The most satisfying were a couple of the Porsche 911’s which were fast, dependable and economical.  If they were running when they came off the trailer, they were running at the end of the event. I had a number of great races in Mazda RX7’s, which always fascinated me with the technology and the performance of its rotary engine. For white knuckled terror, a GT Corvette that I ran and drove for Mike Gordon tops the list. And for pure enjoyment, the FP Miata that I currently race in SCCA would have to get my nod.

On the street, my all time favorite is the Porsche 993 that I currently drive. At some point in every trip the car brings a smile to my face. It is civilized and easy to drive for day to day transport but there is a tiger in there when I want or need to use it. There is nothing more satisfying than merging onto an expressway and watching traffic getting smaller and smaller in the rear view mirror.

 I am also fond of my wife’s Jaguar XJ8, one of the nicest long distance cars that I have driven. It combines understated British luxury with excellent performance and surprisingly good fuel economy. 

The next question after “favorite car” is usually “Is that the best car”?  Not necessarily, but that is another column altogether.
Additional Links:
SCCA – www.scca.com
Porsche – www.porsche.com
Mazda – www.mazdausa.com
Jaguar – www.jaguarcars.com
Corvette – www.chevrolet.com

This and other Experience articles are available on our website: www.MotoringStyle.com

Image taken by: Juan G. Robbin

By: Juan G. Robbin

Miami Florida reveal of the Aston Martin DBS Volante

Aston Martin is on a roll. The current line up of exquisite bespoke high end, luxury sports cars has a dramatic new addition. The Aston Martin DBS Volante!  Fresh from recently having the chance to drive the spectacular DB9 Volante, I was looking forward to seeing how one of these super-cars can be made even more capable and sportier.

 Miami, chosen as one of two cities in the US for the Aston Martin DBS Volante preview, shined under the warm, moonlight night. The invitation only event, hosted by Mr. Julian Jenkins, V.P. and General Manager of Aston Martin North America, took place in the stylish Moore Building in Miami’s Design District where invited guests got a chance to see these sensational Aston Martin cars for the first time.

Upon arrival at the Moore Building, guests got their first glimpse at the fabulous Aston Martin DBS Volante and coupe in a glamorous setting. The display area was transformed into an uber-chic, lounge-like area, where the expansive, multi floor courtyard was aglow in lights, strategically reflected onto large white screens creating an aura of high tech elegance. Bars and food stations flanked the corners as well as a perfectly executed Aston Martin winged crest logo made from a huge clear block of ice. There was a large movie screen suspended above showing, of course, various action scenes from multiple James Bond movies depicting classic Aston Martins helping Agent 007 save the day.

Both the DBS Volante and Coupe commanded center stage. A treat came when I had the chance to spend some time and chat with Mr. Marek Reichman, Design Director of Aston Martin, who graciously gave me his instant reaction as to impressions of the DBS and Aston Martin’s storied heritage. His take on the DBS was simply, “The bespoke, sporty expression of the DB9.” He considers the DBS to be “A tough guy wearing a tuxedo” and regards Aston Martin to be a brand of “Restrained elegance.” Well, as it turned out, Mr. Reichman is definitely not only a world class automobile designer but also a really cool car guy to boot!

As the night progressed the crowd grew with swanky clad Miami Socialites as well as a sprinkling of celebrities and wannabes. The dazzling haute watch maker, Jaeger-LeCoultre was on hand not only showing off some of their exquisite watches, but also highlighting a joint collaboration with Aston Martin, the exclusive men’s AMVOX2 Transponder watch, which also has the unique capability of opening and closing the DBS.

Miami’s glitterati, who definitely know how to party and have a good time seeing and being seen, were smitten with the two incredible cars on display. All night long, guests posed for photos and detailed both DBS’s with tremendous enthusiasm. The DBS Coupe is currently available for sale at $269,000.00 and the DBS Volante for $282,500.00. Aston Martin is planning to sell just 100 DBS Volantes in the United States for 2009, orders are being taken with 1st deliveries in the fall. Build time for one of these sumptuous vehicles is approximately 200 man-hours (one month).

As the evening ended, I left the event and retrieved a fancy German sedan from the valet, that all of the sudden felt so pedestrian and ordinary after spending a few hours with an “objet d’art” like the Aston Martin DBS Volante.

Please visit: www.astonmartin.com

For more experiences and automotive articles, visit our website:  http://www.motoringstyle.com

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe (Image provided by: Hyundai)

By: Juan G. Robbin

One of the best coupe values in the market
Hyundai Genesis Coupe (2010)

Recently, I had the chance to drive the all-new Genesis Coupe with the 3.8 liter V6 and the 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engines and I was blown away by this car. The Genesis Coupe is a superb budget minded sports coupe offering performance and quality that is equal or better to cars worth thousands more.

Hyundai invited us on a ride and drive in the hilly surroundings outside Atlanta, where we were able to get a good impression of the Coupe’s road manners and feel. The look is impressive. There is a Zorro like “Z” across the side silhouette that makes a dramatic design statement. Looking at a Genesis Coupe you can’t decide if this is a G37 Coupe, the reincarnation of the Nissan 240SX or a new model of Hyundai’s own Tiburon. It’s more of a subtle mix of all of the above actually. There is a swoopy half-moon lower curve on the rear side windows as well as the aggressive tail high stance. The size and design of the wheels are perfectly suited for this car, filling in the wheel well perfectly. The headlights as well as tail lights look exquisite and expensive, like pieces of jewelry on a red carpet, “A list” starlet.

Inside you are greeted by nicely finished and bolstered sports seats that are comfortable yet firm in all of the correct places. Plastic interior pieces are more typical Japanese look, than previous budget minded Korean interior trim. Not necessarily eye pleasing but they do the job well. There is a sports car inspired binnacle housing all of the key gauges framed by a nicely finished sports type steering wheel. The Gear shifter has a hefty grip feel. During our ride and drive we did notice an annoying vibration resonance in 6th gear that was caused by a loose cap on top of the shifter, annoying but easily fixable. Then again, the cars we drove where early pre-production models. The shifter was placed a scant two inches too far back, making it a bit uncomfortable on the arm and wrist during some shifts.

The V6 3.8 liter engine is a drivers’ delight. Press the pedal to the floor and the Genesis Coupe screams like a banshee. It’s composed and aggressive giving a satisfying exhaust note that will put a smile on any sports car enthusiast face.

We did a mix of highway and side road driving, ending up near a boat launch area where we met up with other journalists driving the same cars. Hyundai chose brilliant and dramatic colors such as metallic lime green and a red that is so vibrant it screams arrest me! Definitely, bright paint colors go great with the Genesis Coupe. There are some really interesting back country roads in the surrounding Atlanta area that fit the drive perfectly. The Genesis Coupe felt right at home in these curvy back roads, with its excellent direct feel of the steering as well as large Brembo brakes that give excellent fade free performance regardless of the number of times the driver uses the brakes. Suspension is on the edge of being too sporty and firm but on the right kind of road it’s a delight.

Rear seat is tight for two but acceptable for short trips. Trunk space is typical of a sports coupe, small, with an even smaller opening but still usable for a weekend trip.

After lunch we drove the 2.0 liter turbo 4 cylinder version. We enjoyed it as well as its quite capable, but losses some of the nice sounds of the 6 as well as the smoothness that 6 cylinders bring. We predict this model will definitely be the model of choice for the tuner crowd.

The 2010 Genesis Coupe, its budget minded yet not budget looking. Offering excellent performance and handling in a design that is aesthetically pleasing.

The essentials:

MSRP as tested (3.8 liter): $30,550.00 and (2.0 liter): $27,750.00
Fuel Economy: 17-30 MPG range for both models.
Engines: 3.8 liter, V6, 306 HP and 2.0 liter 4 cylinder turbo, 210 HP
Popular options: Track Package, xenon headlamps, Brembo brakes, Limited slip dif.
Please visit: www.hyundaiusa.com

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid (Image provided by: Cadillac)

By: Juan G. Robbin

Spacious, powerful and modern. Need we say more?
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid(2009)

Redesigned in 2007, the Cadillac Escalade is the gold standard for all American full sized SUV’s. You can’t help but noticing the massive sharp angled front grille, modern, jewel-like headlights and chiseled side panels with side grills. Additionally, the prominently sized Cadillac crest insignias front and back. We can assure you, no one forgets it’s a Cadillac. In 2008 GM introduced a Two-mode Hybrid system that for the 1st time is being used in a large Luxury SUV.

Hot day? No worries simply press the ignition button on the remote as you walk towards the vehicle and it starts, voila! a comfortable interior during steamy summer days. As you enter the cabin, helped by the optional retractable running boards, you are greeted by an elegant leather and wood steering wheel with finger-tip controls managing the multi-function display, steering wheel heater, cruise control and voice activated commands. Seating up front is 1st class, with rich leather and elegant stitching. The dash is modern and clean, with gauge pointers that are back lit in white and blue. Select reverse gear and both mirrors tilt down (if you want) plus a high resolution rear back-up camera and audible sensors activate. These are just a few of the touches that clearly differentiate the Cadillac Escalade from a run-of-the-mill large SUV.

Fit and finish is excellent, with the design being clean, modern and functional. Seats, trim, textures and switchgear feel is also better than before. We tried out every seat in the vehicle, and found them all to be comfortable, especially on long trips. Second row can only be a bench seat as the large Hybrid system batteries are located under this seat. Third row seating was not as roomy, but still quite acceptable, especially for adults on short trips or kids on long trips. The multi-zone DVD and A/C system is fantastic. This reminded me when I was a kid in the late 70’s and going on summer trips in the family station-wagon, I was usually relegated to the third row-rear facing bench seat. Visions of stifling heat come back into my mind when I think about it. Where was the 2nd and 3rd row A/C vents then? 30+ years of technology make a huge difference in terms of greater comfort, safety and entertainment to pass the highway miles.

We averaged 18 MPG of real world mixed driving. The Two-Mode Hybrid system is noticeably efficient, however, if you push the Escalade Hybrid hard it will definite be noticeable in the MPG gauge. The interface between electric mode and the engine start stop feature is excellent and the only thing one feels is a very gentle shudder as the engine auto-starts. During constant speed driving, the Escalade offers a system where a four of the eight cylinders go on “sleep” mode offering much better fuel economy. We saw mid 20’s MPG at a steady 65 MPH. Upon a slight squeeze of the throttle the full V8 capability comes online without a bump or lag. Clever idea! Being smooth and gentle during acceleration is the key to squeezing the most out of the electric assist and a gallon of fuel. Anticipating stops and lifting off the gas pedal early also goes a long way towards better economy. The regenerative braking feature is slightly noticeable when using the brakes. Turning radius and steering feedback was remarkably effective and direct respectively. One nice thing Cadillac has done is bundle many of the typical options on the Escalade into standard equipment. These include navigation system, 22” chromed wheels, rearview camera among others. Yes, the hybrid version is a bit more expensive but worth the money as it gives dramatic more fuel economy and a host of desirable features and options that are now standard.

The 2009 Escalade Hybrid, Have your cake and eat it too!

The essentials:

MSRP: $70,735.00 MSRP (As tested): $72,780.00
Fuel Consumption (Observed): 18 MPG
Engine: 6.0 liter V8 with 332 HP and Two-Mode Hybrid
Popular options: Majority are now standard as part of the Hybrid package. Retractable assist steps.
Visit: www.cadillac.com

Toyota Prius Hybrid 2010 - Image provided by Toyota

By: Juan G. Robbin

The 3rd generation Prius Hybrid. More of a good thing!
Toyota Prius (2010)

Some say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, with the 3rd generation of the now ubiquitous Prius, Toyota has created a segment that uses the distinctive and efficient constant radius crescent shape as the definitive hybrid design element other car companies are copying.

Imagine being in an auto show in 1980 envisioning what a futuristic four door sedan should look like in 2010. The Toyota Prius may in fact, come close to that vision. Everything part of the Prius’ design is either function or efficiency driven. The body lines and shape are tight and angular, creating a slippery .025 drag coefficient in wind tunnel testing. There are unique aerodynamic enhancements to the front-lower bumpers as well as the rear tail light lenses. A major, yet almost unnoticeable change with the exterior design from generation 2 was the top of the roof curve which was shifted further back along the roof line in order to give rear passengers better ease of entry as well as rear seat headroom. Not to mention, the rear hatch has a longer and shallower angle as well. The rear half of the roof is fitted with solar power cells that convert solar energy to electric power, enough to run interior vent fans. What a super idea! Simply press a button on the left of the dash and when the panels have enough solar energy, ambient air is vented throughout the car. The pre-production prototype this writer drove also had the optional remote A/C operation. Press “A/C” on the key fob and the car’s air conditioning system will operate for up to three minutes. Time it right and you can walk out to a car that’s cooled after hours in the sweltering heat.

Inside you instantly notice the futuristic, clean, spacious look of the cabin. The center console is divided by a “flying buttress” giving plenty of under center dash storage. The controls are well thought out and intuitive to use. There is a small knob that is actually the gear selector, adding to the high-tech, and futuristic theme of the whole car. Just forward and right of the gear selector are three push buttons that give the driver individual operation modes that they wish to use. ECO mode is default, giving best overall economy by reducing accelerator and A/C strength. To the left is EV Mode. This gives the option of, under certain conditions, to drive up to one mile at 25 MPH or less only on electric power. (Great for late night covert driving operations… read. Your son getting home unnoticed after curfew) Far right button is the POWER setting, which gives full authority of the throttle and max A/C capabilities. This setting gives the driver the most performance as we found out later in the week.

Don’t think that just because it’s a hybrid the Prius is a slouch, in our unscientific stop light test we happen to come across an eager older gentlemen driving a mid 80’s Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3 16V sports sedan. He looked over at me and I knew he wanted to see what the Prius had under the hood. I smiled at the silver haired gentleman and discretely selected the Power mode, we were ready for the stop light challenge. Green light and off we went; pretty much dead even up to 30-35 MPH, the 190E huffed and puffed and by the time we hit 50 MPH he was barely a half car ahead of me. Holy Battery Connectors Batman! The Prius held its own against a sport sedan. Impressive!
When driving a car such as the Toyota Prius one can’t help but to feel more efficient. I for one, worked hard at driving smoother, trying to squeeze better fuel economy on every trip and to increase the average MPG. We saw a best of 49.5 MPG during our stint with the Prius, definitely the best mileage I have ever had in any car.

The 2010 Toyota Prius, a smooth, efficient and comfortable futuristic sedan available now.

The essentials:

MSRP range: $22,000.00-$27,300.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 47 MPG
Engine: 1.8 liter 4 cylinder / Permanent magnet electric motor. 134 HP combined.
Popular options: Navigation, roof solar panel, Bluetooth connectivity, Smart key, Homelink, remote A/C system
Visit: www.toyota.com

Dodge Caliber SRT4 2009 – Image provided by: Dodge

By: Juan G. Robbin

The Dodge Caliber emerges from the compact car doldrums.
Dodge Caliber SRT4 (2009)

Dodge took a nondescript, compact, five door hatch-back and turned it into a fun to drive and great to look at vehicle! It’s a simple recipe: Put in a 285 HP turbocharged engine, add 19 inch low profile wheels and tires change the brakes for larger units, add a dash of body flares spoilers and hood scoops, followed by two comfortable SRT sports seats and voila! You get the Caliber SRT4! 

What a nice surprise! The Caliber STR4 is fun to drive, fast and comfortable. The design goes from an un-noticeable entry level car to an oh-wow-here-I-am center of attraction. There is a mean, aggressive look to the Caliber SRT4. The added power, aero kit, flares, spoilers and deep bumper skirts make this an appealing vehicle for any enthusiast.

We loved the look of the sports seats, the easy to control clutch and the ergonomic gear-shifter position. In addition to the unique look of sports SRT-series only body panels and wheels. There is a cool custom boost and vacuum gauge located on the extreme left side of the instrument panel.  This is in addition to a complete set of instruments on the dash. The large center console has the audio and HVAC controls that have traditional, easy to find and operate knobs and dials. Most times these are easier to find and operate with minimal distraction as compared to touch screen or menu controlled functions. The Caliber SRT4 we drove had the superbly tuned optional Kicker/SRT Livin’ Loud Audio System with a 200 watt subwoofer in the cargo area. 

Push the accelerator pedal all the way down and you are rewarded with a nice rush of power from the 4 cylinder turbocharged engine. There is some torque steer during hard acceleration, but this is to be expected, as the Caliber SRT4 is a front wheel drive vehicle. The large sports brakes are good overall but felt a bit numb in feedback, especially when coming to a stop slowly. Though, hard braking felt positive and precise. Handling felt direct, precise and sporty yet comfortable for everyday real-world driving.

Fit and finish are better than the previous generations of Dodge small cars, yet there are still small, noticeable nit-picks, such as the flimsy air conditioning vents that are difficult to adjust as well as some minor squeaks and rattles.

The 2009 Dodge Caliber SRT4 offers a nice blend of style, modern design and excellent performance for its price. Is it worth a look?  Absolutely!

The Essentials:

MSRP: $24,590.00    As tested: $26,920.00
Fuel economy (Observed): 19.8 MPG
Engine: 2.4 Liter 4 cylinder, 285 HP Turbocharged
Popular Options: Performance tires, 4 wheel ABS, Kicker sound system.
Visit: www.dodge.com

Acura TL SH-AWD TECH (2009) – Image provided by: Acura

By: Juan G. Robbin

A face only a mother could love.
Acura TL SH-AWD TECH, (2009)

Newly restyled for 2009, the Acura TL has controversial, even a polarizing new design that either you love it or hate it. Regardless of what you think of it, it does create a bold statement that brings the TL out of the bland doldrums. In recent years, some of the Japanese sedans have suffered from anonymity styling, that is to say, if you de-badge them one may be hard pressed to identify the model and make. This is definitely not the case with the redesigned TL. Its angular, sharp lines as well as it’s “over the top” front fascia, rear bumper and trunk lid make it stand out in any crowd.

Even if you aren’t crazy with the exterior execution, the interior is a whole other ball game. After spending one week and over 500 miles on Florida’s roads with the TL we where sold on the comfortable, elegant and functional interior. The center dash reminds us of a Battle-Star Galactica-like control panel, with myriads of buttons, controls and switches. The multi-function display is full of high tech capabilities such as AcuraLink offering real time traffic and weather by way of XM Radio. There is an MP3/USB audio interface that works like magic. The seats are a nice blend of luxury and performance, with good side bolster and lower thigh comfort as well as supple, luxurious leather on all the seats. Cabin materials are first rate, with fit and finish as one would expect from an Acura.

When driving the Acura TL our biggest realization was the zen-like quietness, even at fast highway speeds. Acceleration from the V6 engine is powerful, smooth and compliant. Road feedback is excellent, much like a German sports sedan. Steering effort and feel is set up perfectly, especially during cornering. Handling is balanced and predictable, especially in the AWD version. Acura has clearly set its sights on the established German sedans and with the new TL it’s getting incredibly close.

The intricate and unique styled 18 inch alloy wheels are finished in a brushed metal texture look that fit perfectly with the car’s angular design. Its edgy looking quad exhaust tips are raked, rectangular shaped that integrate quite nicely into the corners of the rear bumper. Trunk space is excellent with a low lip for easy carry-over. Rear seating is typical of a sports sedan, comfortable for two tight for three.

The 2009 Acura TL SH-AWD TECH sports sedan. Unique styling, superbly appointed and well known Acura quality. Definitely worth a serious look if you are in the market for an A4, C Class or 3 Series mid-sized sports sedan.

The Essentials:

MSRP: $42,235.00  MSRP (As tested): $42,995.00
Fuel Economy (Observed): 20.4 MPG
Engine: V6, 3.7 liter, 305 HP
Visit: www.acura.com

Ferrari California (Image provided by: Ferrari)

By: Frankie Coletto

It was a cool night setting the scene for an Oscar award winning debut by none other than Ferrari’s latest addition, the California. Dubbed Ferrari’s first convertible hardtop, expectations were high as the tensions rose up until the unveiling.

The sillouette of the ghost vehicle was draped in a cloke chic enough to make the Phantom of the Opera do a double take. The location? Coral Gables’ prestigious castle-like dealer, The Collection.

Upon walking into the Ferrari showroom, a person automatically feels the presence of history and history in the making alike. Lit like an Intel lab, chilled like fresh champagne, and flooded with ambient sounds of business chatter and live mood music. A rush of wandering eyes and penetrating whispers make the most confident silently question their rank amongst the attending socialites. Deciding to “blend” only further solidifi es the idea that Kevin Costner’s Field was definitely this Ferrari showroom. Ferrari has built it, and we have come. We have come to see the latest car to swoon about while strolling Ocean Drive or the local garage during a chance siting.

After what felt like an eternity of compliments and flattery, the time finally came to awake the sleeping giant beneath the silver velvet-like drapery blanketing the vehicle.

Gently went the cover, and steadily revealed was the new Ferrari California which began to slowly waltz on the rotating platform. The curves and aggressive stature allowed the most inexperienced of photographers to capture poster shots.

Not only is it the first convertible hardtop, but disappointingly similar to the Masserati Gran Turismo. So what if it looks like a Massi’, it’s a Ferrari. The California is great for going from the boardroom, to cruising the coast with nothing but blue skies and freedom.

The California has an aggressive front end that looks like a road eater, body lines that exude speed doused with sophistication, and a rear that exemplifies Ferrari styling. If the quad exhaust tips don’t get your attention, the transformer-like precision of the hard top receeding into the trunk will leave you saying,”do it again…”

The interior looks like a Frankenstein experiment gone well. A fresh center console and a navigation system for those that don’t have time for learning petty directions sit perfectly for the driver. The classic Ferrari “look” is still in full effect. If you don’t know what that means, go over to The Collection and have a seat. It’s breathtaking.

However, the California is not as “loud” as an F430, which screams,”I’m a Ferrari.” Reason for disappointment? Are you crazy, that’s a trick question. It’s a Ferrari and unless you have five in the garage collecting dust, just ask for the keys and don’t forget to play with the button.

By the way, if the convertible hardtop and surreal Ferrari branded engine scream doesn’t get your adrenaline going, the cup holders open pretty cool too.

Ferrari California (Image provided by: Ferrari)

What’s poppin’ under the hood?
Engine: 4.3 Liter V8
Valves: 32
Horsepower: 460 HP
Trans: 7 speed automated manual transmission
0-60 MPH: Less than 4 sec.
Street Appeal: 7 out of 10
Drive-thru Appeal: 10 out of 10
Club Appeal: 7 out of 10
Sex Appeal: 9 out of 10
Status Appeal: 10 out of 10
MotoringStyle index: 9 out of 10 (buy it!)