Motoring November 2008

Industry reels, but it’s still fun in Aveo, Avalon, V70

By Kevin Ransom

Well, October was a non-stop roller-coaster ride for the U.S auto industry. First came the announcement that September auto sales plummeted to their lowest level in 15 years - some bad news that didn’t spare the Asian or European automakers, either.

Part of that was due to the credit crunch that had been slowing the U.S. economy for months even before the financial-market meltdown that forced many Wall Street financial institutions to either go bankrupt or be taken over/bailed out by the U.S government.

That meltdown hit the automakers even harder than the plunging September auto sales. General Motors and Ford Motor Co. stock lost more than 50 per cent of its value compared to October of 2007.

Chrysler LLC, since it is now owned by a private company,  Cerberus Capital Management, does not have to post earnings and losses, but Chrysler was clearly hit just as hard – the company announced in late October that it was slashing another 5,000 more jobs.

In the midst of all this turmoil came reports that GM and Chrysler were talking about a possible merger. That story sent more shock waves through the domestic auto industry and caused even more anxiety for the state of Michigan, whose economy has been battered by the Big Three’s financial struggles for the last several years: such a merger would obviously lead to even more lost jobs, because such a new merged company would result in so much duplication – from model lines to corporate departments to dealer networks.

At this writing, speculation and reports were rampant, with Nissan once again emerging as a player in a possible Chrysler merger. So, stay tuned, as the state of the Detroit auto biz is once again up in the air.

Which brings us to my vehicle reviews for the month…..

Chevrolet Aveo

As has been reported at length, a big factor in all of the industry’s travails the last few years has been the high cost of gasoline in the U.S., which has prompted many buyers to flee from their big SUVs and trucks in favor of smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.

Better fuel economy is clearly the wave of the future, as all carmakers push onward on the alternative-fuel front. But one player in the current gas-mileage sweepstakes is the Chevy Aveo, a sub-compact that boasts a fuel economy of 27 / 34 mpg, city /hwy. (The 27 figure is with a manual transmission. With an automatic, the city mileage drops to 25.)

The Aveo comes in three trim levels – the LS, 1LT and 2LT and can be had as either a sedan or a hatchback. All three come with a Ecotec 1.6L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder MFI engine that puts out 106 hp 105 lb.ft. of torque. That engine provides a power boost over previous generations of the Aveo plants.

I test-drove the 2009 Aveo5 LT hatchback, which has been redesigned for ‘09.

The new design is marked by prominent, Malibu-inspired grilles separated by a bowtie emblem and lower grilles that are flanked by sweeping headlamps. In back,  a lower fascia insert and roof-mounted spoiler augment the sportier visage. Meanwhile, its “tall car” profile, with short front and rear overhangs, lend it a more dynamic look for a small car.

Hatchbacks always offer more utility and cargo-hauling options than sedans, and that’s true with the Aveo5.  The spacious Aveo5 hatchback offers up to 42 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Even the sedan offers impressive roominess for a small number: The fully-reclining front passenger seat and a 60/40-split folding rear seat expand Aveo sedan’s interior cargo capacity, which means longer items like skis can be stored between the trunk and passenger compartment. The sedan’s trunk offers 12.4 cubic feet of storage space.

The “tall car” design also creates  generous headroom – the Aveo can comfortably seat five passengers who are 6 feet tall.  Inside, I also liked the standard folding driver’s armrest and lower-profile rear-seat headrests, the dual visor vanity mirrors, the sunglasses holder on the driver side headliner, the door and seatback storage pockets; and the hooks, which are situated on headrest posts, that can be used to hang suitbags, backpacks or shopping bags.

And the vehicle’s sound-dampening technologies result in a quiet ride, even on the highway.

Under the hood, the aforementioned 1.6L Ecotec engine features Variable Valve Timing, electronic throttle control and an electrically controlled thermostat, which help  improve performance and engine efficiency across the rpm range. It also features an integrated oil cooler with piston spray nozzles, as well as a timing belt designed to last 100,000 miles and a replaceable cartridge-type oil filter – as opposed to the more conventional, spin-on metal can filter.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all models, while the Aisin four-speed automatic transmission is available. My test model came with the stick, and the shifting was smooth and responsive.

The automatic, however, comes with a Hold Control Mode designed to reduce wheel spin and traction loss on wet road – by enabling the driver to select and maintain a higher gear, reducing torque to the wheels. This allows the driver to control the shift points in a way that approximates the operation of a manual tranny.

With a small car, it’s essential that it have a suspension that ensures that it’s properly “planted” when navigating turns and twisting roads, and the Aveo addresses that with MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and an independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension with gas-charged shocks. Also contributing to the ride quality is the power-assisted, variable-rate rack-and-pinion steering -- and a steering gear that’s mounted on the front suspension cross member for precision and stability.

Safety features are also important in a small car, and the Aveo has taken that into account as well, with power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes and an optional  four-channel ABS system. This system employs one sensor at each wheel and utilizes electronic brake force distribution -- which applies braking pressure depending on road conditions and the total weight of the vehicle including passengers and cargo.

The ’09 Aveo’s other features include: standard OnStar system; optional XM Satellite Radio available; new 15-inch aluminum alloy five-spoke wheels;  new Charcoal leatherette seating; optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob (included with leatherette seating);  auxiliary input jack included on all radios; GM Oil Life monitoring system; new spoiler for Aveo5.

Additionally, the 1LT trim level – the one I drove – comes with air conditioning, and AM/FM stereo with CD/MP3 player and six-speaker premium sound system as standard equipment.

Clearly, cost-conscious American buyers want small cars – now and in the future – so the Aveo will be a competitive entry for GM for years to come.

Toyota Avalon

Toyota gets most of its attention for its smaller Corolla and its mid-sized but economical Corolla. The more upmarket large-sedan Avalon has also been a strong performer for Toyota, however, among those buyers with more cash to spend and who appreciate luxo-line amenities and elegant styling.

For 2009, the Touring grade has been discontinued, meaning the Avalon is now available in the standard XL, the well-equipped XLS and the top-of-the-line Limited, which is comparable to “near-luxury” models when it comes to its comfiness and high-line features. I drove the XLS sedan, which came with a long list of high-end standard features, like 17” alloy wheels, dual heated outside mirrors, leather-trimmed seats, six-disc CD changer with 9 speakers and auxiliary audio jacks, and a multi-function info display with audio, message, outside temp, interior climate and trip-computer information.

The Avalon also gets a couple of new safety features for ’09 – standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC) and Brake Assist (BA).

All of Avalon trim lines get their power from a 3.5-liter, 24-valve V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The engine employs Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) and a dual-stage variable intake manifold in an effort to deliver peak performance at various engine speeds.

The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides a sequential manual shift feature that gets the driver more “involved” in the driving experience when the mood strikes. This combo of engine and trans enables the Avalon to do the zero-to-60 mph in 7.1 seconds, says Toyota – but it also achieves decent EPA fuel economy for a larger sedan with luxury leanings – 19 MPG city/28 MPG highway. It’s also certified as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV).

My test model struck a svelte, eye-catching profile, with flowing lines and a handsome all-around design. This is the third-generation Avalon, and it was primarily designed at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., then developed by U.S.-based Toyota Technical Centers.

The Avalon exudes a sporty, somewhat aggressive stance, complemented by a sparkling grille with chrome-accented horizontal bars and low-lines. On the XLS and Limited models, the fog lamps are tucked into the lower intake valance, while the XLS comes with chrome exterior door handles. In back, the larger tail lamps and an the nicely sculpted trunk lines – along with the dual exhaust outlets – further the sporty appeal.

To address wind noise, Toyota engineers implemented some nice touches, like  reshaping the A-pillar and side mirrors, and lowering the position of the windshield wipers. And if you opt for the Limited model, you get a specially designed acoustic windshield that further damps wind noise.

The Avalon  delivered a smooth and responsive ride, in various driving situations.

On the safety front, the Avalon has much to offer to make drivers and passengers feel secure. The supplemental restraint system (SRS) includes standard front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags that are designed to provide protection in certain types of severe side impacts. The Avalon also comes with a driver’s knee airbag and front seat active headrests as standard equipment.

Additionally, the standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) integrates Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and the standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is designed to detect and help correct loss of lateral traction during cornering. The VSC system employs traction control (TRAC) to help diminish front-wheel spin on wet or icy roads, and the Brake Assist (BA) feature can determine whether the driver is attempting emergency braking -- but has not stepped firmly enough on the pedal to activate the ABS. If that’s the case, the system automatically applies maximum braking pressure until the pressure is manually released by the driver.

Although I drove the XLS, the high-end features that come in the Limited are worth mentioning for those who want to lay out a little extra cash in exchange for luxury comforts and convenience. The Limited offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, and a driver’s seat cushion whose length is power-adjustable, which improves thigh support. The Limited also comes with an audiophile’s dream – the JBL Synthesis audio system with a six-disc CD changer and 12 speakers, and Bluetooth® wireless connectivity. This system is also available as an option for the XLS.

But that’s not all. The Limited also offers a one-touch auto-reverse power rear sunshade, memory driver’s seat, rain-sensing wipers, HID headlamps, he Smart Key System and a rear sunshade that retracts when the driver shifts from Drive into Reverse, then re-extends when the driver shifts back into Drive.

For those who aren’t familiar with the Smart Key system, it allows the driver to carry  a light, compact key fob that sends a signal to a sensor in the car when approaching the vehicle – which turns on the puddle lamps and interior dome lamp, then unlocks the doors when the handle is touched. Once the driver is comfortably nestled inside the cabin, he/she can start the Avalon with a pushbutton. The Smart Key system also allows the driver to open the trunk by touching the handle as long as he / she is holding the fob.

In summary, although most people immediately think about the reliability and fuel economy of the Corolla and Camry whenever they hear the word “Toyota,” the Avalon is a fine machine for those who want something more elegant and refined.

Volvo V70

In another life, way back in the early 1980s, I bought a used 1974 Volvo 142 that was my first “nice” car. So, even today, more than 15 years after Volvo discontinued that  boxy-but-stately body style, memories still drift back, and I sometimes still miss the old girl.

But times change, of course, and Volvos obviously look very different today. Take its new station-wagon entry: The V70 was launched in 2007, and has taken a solid hold in the premium “estate wagon” segment. Its design strikes the balance between Scandinavian stoicism and sporty flair and offers a versatile interior space that can be adapted to the individual drivers’ cargo hauling needs

The V70 also strikes a handsome pose, with a “soft nose” front and egg-crate grille with chromed vertical bars. In back, the tailgate’s upper section has a sporty, forward-leaning look, and the gate overlaps with the tail lamps, creating a wider opening. The window glass extends down at the side of the vehicle, increasing rear-view visibility.

Further enhancing the sporty aspect of the design are the silk-metal finish on the  door mirrors, the fog-light trim and the grille – not to mention the double chromed-plated tailpipes and rear-bumper black insert. The moldings around the windows are made from an elegant-looking black aluminum, and the tailgate spoiler is body-colored.

(The V70 also comes in an Ocean Race Edition, which sports a design concept that links the V70 model with the sea and sailing – and with Volvo’s Ocean Race sailing competition. The Race Edition comes with 17” aluminum wheels, gleaming chrome moldings around the fog lamps and side windows, and silver rails.)   

Inside, silk-metal effect is prominent as well.  The front seat surfaces are a unique combination of perforated and grooved leather. The front seats have also been fortified with extra foam, which not provides extra support for sportier driving maneuvers. The rear seat and cushions are also reinforced, and the sport steering wheel and gear knob get the perforated-leather treatment. 

A nice touch for families are the rear integrated child seats, which can be adjusted in two steps. And you have to like the optional ventilated front seats that are equipped with fans, which lowers the seat cushion temperature for increased seating comfort, especially on hot summer days. 

If you have some sort of cargo that needs carrying – and if you’re a wagon buyer, you probably fit into that category – you’ll like the flexible loading options. The rear seat is split into three sections -- 40/20/40 – and the luggage compartment has aluminum rails and movable anchorage points. These anchorage points can be tucked down into the rails when not in use.

The built-in anchorage eyelets in the side panels, meanwhile, help to  keep cargo snugly in place, and the side panels can be equipped with multifunctional rails, which allows you to attach hooks, load-anchoring nets and cargo space dividers. And if you’re approach the vehicle with an armload, you’ll love the optional power-operated tailgate, which can be opened by pushing a button on a remote control. 

The V70 is powered by a peppy, responsive 3.2-liter, normally aspirated transversely mounted six-cylinder engine that kicks out 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque – and which utilizes an advanced valve mechanism CPS (Cam Profile Switching) plus VIS (Variable Intake System) to attain the right balance between brisk performance, driving comfort and fuel economy. A standard six-speed “Geartronic” automatic transmission allows you to shift gears manually when a little extra torque is needed – or just if you feel like gunning it a little

A Bluetooth hands-free phone interface and front fog lights are standard equipment, while an optional Technology Package offers active Bi-Xenon high intensity gas discharge headlamps with washers, Sirius satellite radio and a Dynaudio Premium Sound System with Dolby Pro-Logic II Surround Sound, 650-watt amplifier, 12 Dynaudio speakers plus rear seat headphone jacks and audio controls.

Every  car enthusiast knows that Volvo has made its bones with world-class safety systems and features, and the V70 builds on that rep with a feature that improves safety for children in the rear seat:  A unique height-adjustable integrated booster cushion is integrated into the seats, with an extended inflatable curtain and power child locks. This synergy provides excellent safety provisions for children of different sizes. And the V70’s very strong side structure uses high-tensile steel of varying grades to provide side-impact protection.

Other standard safety features include the next generation Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and enhanced impact protection for pedestrians and cyclists. Options include the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless Drive, two-way car communication and heartbeat sensor.

And some of the more coveted options will be the Volvo Navigation System with HDD, DVD map data and remote control, a dual screen rear seat entertainment system and 17-inch “Canicula” alloy wheels.
So, yes, I do wish the old 142 / 242 body style was still around. But if I can’t have my very own time machine to take me back to those halcyon days, a solid, well-crafted road machine like this one will do just fine.