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Fast Take: 2013 Toyota Prius v Model Three

By
Andre Smirnov
-

Toyota Prius vThe family wagon is finally starting to make a comeback in the United States. With Synergy Drive hybrid technology forging the fuel efficiency innovation path, Toyota continues to refine it’s Prius vehicle lineup. Now in its second year of sale in the United States, the Prius v soldiers on, dutifully schlepping kids, pets and families alike via a more ozone-friendlier vessel.

FAST TAKE STATS Starting Retail Price As Tested Price HP/Battery
2013 Toyota Prius v Model Three $27,415 $28,553 134HP/1.3-kWh
EPA Rating MPG City/Hwy As Tested MPG 0-60 MPH 
Rating: Buy It! 44/40 Combined 42 Combined 40.6 10.2 seconds

Reviewer’s Notes

There is always something about a car that isn’t perfect. The Prius v is no different in the “misses” category:

  •  I found the steering wheel to be a huge let down. The rubbery buttons to control HVAC and infotainment options have a very low quality feel about them. My palms went numb after 45-minutes of spirited driving from the hard, equally cheap feeling helm. You can solve this problem by  upgrading to the Model Five ($31,090) trim level—there are no model Ones or Fours, go figure—where your wheel and seating surfaces will be covered in Toyota’s artificial leather, SofTex.
  • It seems that the hipper, younger set I meet at car shows are rolling up in various vinyl wrapped hot hatches. If you’re one of those people, there’s plenty of it when it comes to the Prius v—just not on the outside. From the door cards to the dashboard, it’s Nerf ball foam wrapped in textured polyethelyne-esque material as far as the eye can see. Your friends will be so jealous that you’ve taken the vinyl wrap craze to the interior.
  • Being a five passenger hybrid car from one of the most family-friendly brands around, I didn’t expect any level of sporty performance out of the Prius v. The 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle DOHC inline four cylinder just seems to make a louder droning sound when the accelerator is pressed. At a little over 10-seconds to hit 60-mph, I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.
  • Handling-wise, the Prius lineup is quite vanilla. The electric-assisted steering and low rolling resistance Bridgestone Turanza tires collectively deliver very little feedback from the road beneath. The competing Ford C-Max has Toyota’s wagon beat through the curves.
  • The tires squeal when pushed ever so slightly. Basically, if the speed limit is 45-mph around a turn, and you’re doing 50-mph, don’t be surprised to hear the begininings of lateral friction loss against the sidewall.

To Toyota’s credit, there are a lot more “hits” than misses when it comes to a behind-the-wheel experience with the Prius v. It’s the little things that matter, and Toyota seems to be getting a lot of those right.

  • With its rakish body, punched in nose and what seems like a skyscraper’s worth of glazing encapsulating the cockpit, the resulting aerodynamics are whisper quiet, with a silky .29 coefficient of drag—that’s .07 lower than a Ferarri Enzo! Realizing this fact all of the sudden made me appreciate the wind slicing shape of the people mover. There is a lot of function in that form.
  • The car was delivered to me in a Barcelona Red paint color. Photos don’t do it justice. It’s a great color that would look good on any supercar. If you’re in the market, avoid the ubiquitous white and silver offerings. Besides, we all know red cars are 20% faster than any other color…
  • With its small displacement engine, I was able to average 40.6-mpg after 200+ miles of heavy-footed city and highway errand runs. The competing Ford C-Max could only hope to achieve those kind of numbers with my leaded metatarsals.
  •  The suspension absorbs the bumps quite well, delivering a Camry-esque smoothness when tooling around town in Eco Mode.
  • I love the thought that went into how this car will be used. Finally, a mainstream, family car that has standard, single-press Auto-up/down buttons for all four windows on the driver’s armrest. It makes airing out the car in the oppressive Virginia summer heat a breeze.
  • The Entune infotainment system is easy to use, albeit graphics and screen resolution could use some improvement. Hooking up my iPhone 4S via USB and Bluetooth audio took less time than it did to figure out where the LATCH anchors in the rear seat are located (beneath their upholstered zipper flaps).
  • The 60/40 rear seat offers a lot of room,  allowing three child seats to be mounted side by side. Adult passengers sitting in the back seat will appreciate the adjustable rake and forward/aft adjustment of the seats. There’s an  abundance of drink holders in the car, with the rear of the center console housing two spaces, and the doors each having a place for a bottled beverage. I counted nine places to store a bottle of water, including in the front passenger area which has a slick push-to-reveal holder mounted in the dash.
  • With a cavernous cargo area, I made short work of delivering an oversized antique bassinet to a relative. When up, the rear seats allow 34.3-cubic feet of storage; folded down, 67.3-cubic feet. That beats all of the competition, which is a pretty short list as the only other hybrid wagon in the segment is the Ford C-Max.

Check out this video of Roman and Nathan in the Prius v…

2013 Toyota RAV4 Test: What the Car Magazines don’t want you to know about 0-60 MPH

By
Roman Mica
-
2013 Toyota RAV4 Test
2013 Toyota RAV4 Test

The 2013 Toyota RAV4 is a perky crossover that began the entire crossover line of cars. But that’s not what this video is all about.

Instead we thought it would be fun to share a secret with you; a secret that the car magazines don’t want you you to know about 0-60 MPH times.

And that secret is…..

We’re of course not going to tell you here, but instead we’ll show you in this video.

Check another fun and informative TFLcar video where we test this car 4 different times from 0-60 MPH to share a simple secret.

BTW: You can watch a first drive review of the new 2013 Toyota RAV4 HERE.

Toyota Is Still World’s Top Automaker, But Just Barely

By
Andre Smirnov
-
2013 Toyota Corolla
2013 Toyota Corolla

Toyota has managed to hold on to its title as the world’s top automaker, but not by much of a margin. It barely edged out both GM and Volkswagen who saw overall sales increases while Toyota saw a decline despite staying on top.

They’ve reported their worldwide sales for the first six months of 2013 at 4.911 million vehicles. That huge number is still a 1.1 percent decline from a year earlier.

The slip downward is due to lower sales in Japan as subsidies for green cars disappear. In the US, the automaker’s largest market, sales were strong which helped keep Toyota from slipping out of first place.

GM is hot on Toyota’s heels with 4.85 million units up 4 percent for the first six months of the year. This translates to 4.85 million more vehicles. Volkswagen was also a close competitor with a 5.5 percent increase that brought its total to 4.70 million units through June 30th.

The Volkswagen numbers might actually be a little better than stated since they don’t include their Scania and MAN Brands. Scania has sold 37,980 units while MAN came in with roughly 60,000 to add to the total.

Although Toyota managed to hold on to its lead for year-to-date numbers, it came in second place to GM for the second quarter. It’s the first time this has happened in the last six quarters and is indicative of the recovery US automakers are experiencing as they introduce new and improved models.

GM came in first for the second quarter with 2.49 million while Toyota fell short with 2.48 million. They did manage to stay ahead of Volkswagen’s 2.39 million units.

Toyota slipped behind both GM and Volkswagen back in 2011 due to supply chain issues after Japan was hit with natural disasters and numerous recalls that stained its reputation for quality. They made a comeback in 2012 but at mid-year it looks like they stand a chance of losing the title once again.

Nicole Wakelin fell in love with cars as a teenager when she got to go for a ride in a Ferrari. It was red and it was fast and that was all that mattered. Game over. She considers things a bit more carefully now, but still has a weakness for fast, beautiful cars. Nicole also writes for NerdApproved and GeekMom.

2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel: Everything you ever wanted to know

By
Roman Mica
-
2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel: Everything you ever wanted to know
2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel: Everything you ever wanted to know

2014-Chevrolet-Cruze-Turbo-Diesel-front-end-in-motion-02The 2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel gets 46 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG in the city according to the EPA.

Those are numbers that Chevrolet hopes will sell the new European ride.

That’s right the 2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel was developed for the European market but Chevy choose to bring over the small sedan to take advantage of the significant highway MPG number.

In another fun and informative TFLcar video we get to know the car inside and out by talking to one of the engineers who helped develop and bring the 2014 Chevy Cruze Turbo Diesel to America.

If this car is on your short shopping list, we think this is a video you’ll enjoy watching.

Is the Opel Adam Rocks Concept the next Buick Invicta for the USA?

By
Nathan Adlen
-

Opel-Adam-Rocks-3[3]
The Buick Invicta name comes from Buick’s past, so the name is a logical choice to use if they opt to bring this dapper little Opel Adam Rocks Concept to the USA. I’m using this name for dramatic license, Buick has made no announcements whatsoever. Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann was quoted as saying that Opel will build cars like the Adam Rocks to stay competitive in the European market. Given that Buick is bringing over may Opel models to the USA, it makes sense that they attack the small, premium car market with a vehicle like this.

Opel-Adam-Rocks-1[3]
Will it be called the Buick Invicta? No clue here. I chose the name from past Buicks as it’s been out of the Buick lexicon for such a long time, they may use it again.

The Buick Invicta/Opel Adam Rocks Concept could be powered by a 182 horsepower, 1.6-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine that makes about 140-lbs-feet of torque. It may have a six-speed manual and, possibly, a dual clutch transmission as well.

Opel-Adam-Rocks-5[3]
The version on this page is a Opel Adam Rocks Concept Convertible. (Thanks to Carscoops for the info) Like the FIAT 500C cabriolet, this vehicle has a roll-back roof that is held between the horizontal roof supports. the idea works well in the FIAT 500C as it is very easy to use while maintaining good structural integrity.

If the Buick Invicta (or, whatever name they deem appropriate) comes to our shores, it will compete directly with the MINI Cooper, FIAT 500 and the Volkswagen Beetle – among others. It looks like a fun car, one that may usher in a more youthful bent at Buick.

It looks like Opel will begin producing the Opel Adam Rocks (probably with a different name) very soon. Overall, critical reception has been positive. They are confident enough to build this convertible concept – which is a good indication of their commitment.

Personally, I like the direction Buick has followed and I hope they keep bringing these excellent Opels to North America.
Opel-Adam-Rocks-2[3]

Speaking of Buick, check out this video of Roman testing the Buick Verano!

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.

Special thanks to Auto Motor und Sport and Carscoops for the information.

2014 KIA Forte Sedan vs Chevy Cruze Diesel 0-60 MPH Mashup Review

By
Roman Mica
-
2014 KIA Forte Sedan vs Chevy Cruze Diesel 0-60 MPH Mashup Review
2014 KIA Forte Sedan vs Chevy Cruze Diesel 0-60 MPH Mashup Review

The 2014 KIA Forte and the Chevy Cruze are direct competitors in the new car market place…or are they.

In another fun and informative TFLcar Mashup Review we compare these two sedans to see which one is the better ride.

But while these two cars compete for the same buyer not all Chevy Cruzes are created equal.

In fact this Cruze has a surprise under the hood, a very fuel efficient and very powerful turbo-charged diesel engine.

With this in mind, do you think that the KIA Forte or the Chevy Cruze is the fastest in a straight line to 60 MPH at a mile above sea level?

You’ll have to watch this unique TFLcar Mashup review to find out.

Review: 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO AWD – Where is the Manual?

By
Andre Smirnov
-

IMG_1630

This is a review of the 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO AWD.  It’s a fun little car if you get a chance to know it.  Is the all wheel drive Juke NISMO the best of all Jukes?  As the title says – there is something missing.

STATS Starting Retail Price As Tested Price HP / Lb-Ft
2013 Nissan Juke NISMO AWD $25,290 $27,710 197 / 184
EPA Rating MPG As Tested MPG
Rating: LEASE IT! 25 / 30 Combined 27 Combined 24.7

First Impressions

The 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO actually feels bigger on the inside than it looks on the outside. The driver and front passenger enjoy ample room all around. The NISMO sport seats in the front are snug and offer great lateral support.  Oddly enough, Juke’s exhaust crowned with a NISMO specific tipis too quiet and does not elicit a lot of emotion.

Styling/Design:

The stand out design of the Juke has been polarizing opinions ever since it was introduced in 2011. Until the 2014 Jeep Cherokee goes on sale later this year, it’s difficult to think of another vehicle currently on sale with such an odd design. The NISMO version adds more flare with LED running lights up front, aggressive and aerodynamic body kit with a signature red accent outlining the sporty valances, skirts, and spoilers. It looks downright evil in this black color (it also comes in white and silver). NISMO Juke’s large side mirrors are also painted red, as well as the red rally steering wheel marker. The large single exhaust tip is another way to spot a NISMO.

2013 juke nismo interior steering wheel

There are more good things on the inside. The sport seats are comfortable and well bolstered for spirited driving. Many of the surfaces are covered in a suede-like material, including the steering wheel. This gives a premium and sporty feeling throughout the interior. With that being said, you can still notice cost saving plastics and whatever the headliner is made out of. However, the materials are carefully chosen and cleverly laid out with the better materials in the foreground and the cheaper stuff out of the way.

Powertrain:

The 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO receives a 9 horsepower boost up from the regular version for a healthy total of 197 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque coming from a compact 1.6-liter turbo engine. This test vehicle was equipped with a smart AWD system and the non-fitting CVT transmission. Nissan makes some of the best CVTs on the market, but it does not fit the sporty character of this Juke. There is a fair amount of turbo lag from the small motor, when leaving stop lights around town. The on-off tendency of the CVT makes it difficult to modulate the throttle. I found myself grabbing a lot of throttle at first, then having to back out of it once the turbo is fully kicked in.

The Juke is the first vehicle I drove with the AWD that you can switch into FWD.  This is great for getting a little better economy and acceleration when you do not need all wheel traction.  However, if you can live without the AWD, the Juke NISMO comes with a nice 6-speed manual transmission.  I claim that a FWD only Juke NISMO with a manual transmission is the ultimate Juke of them all.

2013 nissan juke nismo rear black

Handling/Ride:

I was fortunate to drive this sporty Juke on the race track and on the street. The NISMO has been lowered almost one inch, and it’s sitting on 18 inch wheels and low profile tires. All of these modification make this Juke a more competent handler. However, its center of gravity is still a little high thus it is a little tippy going around a racetrack at full tilt. Perhaps, a road course is not this NISMO’s natural habitat. It feels like it would be perfect on a dirt rally course.  I drove a regular Juke on a rally course last year, and I think this tuned version would do great, if it has enough suspension compliance to soak up the bumps.

On the street, this NISMO strikes a good balance between performance and comfort.  It is leaning to the firm side of things, but it’s not uncomfortable.  The steering has good weight and is direct.  It’s not perfect, but it is a great setup for this price range.

Competitors:

Does the Juke have any competition?  Is there another oddly designed small AWD crossover, which is ready for a rally?  Nissan compares the Juke to the Hyundai Veloster and the MINI Cooper on its website.  Yet, neither the Veloster nor the Cooper have available all wheel drive or four doors.  The KIA Sportage could also be cross-shopped, but it’s more powerful, thirsty, and expensive.  In many ways, the Juke stands on its own.

On the TFLcar scale of:

  • Buy it!
  • Lease it!
  • Rent it!
  • … or Forget it!

I give the 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO AWD a Lease It! 

The 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO AWD is a good little car, but it’s not a slam dunk for me. I don’t have any issues with Juke’s styling. My two issues are: the lack of a sporty sounding exhaust and manual transmission option with the all wheel drive.  I would give a Buy It! rating to the front wheel drive Juke NISMO 6-speed manual.  That model would save you about 200 lbs of curb weight and around $2,500 in price. And the manual transmission would make it more controllable and fun.

Use TFLcar Marketplace to locate your next vehicle.

Check out this TFLcar mile high 0-60 MPH test of the 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO:

Juke NISMO on the race track:

Juke NISMO in a ‘Hot Hatch’ Mashup:

 

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or simply ‘going for a drive’.

2014 KIA Sorento Road Trip Review: The new age Family Hauling Machine?

By
Roman Mica
-
2014 KIA Sorento Road Trip Review: The new age Family Hauling Machine?
2014 KIA Sorento Road Trip Review: The new age Family Hauling Machine?

The 2014 KIA Sorento is family hauling machine. So what better vehicle to take on a mini family vacation and road trip.

In this TFLcar road trip review Nathan packs up his family and takes them to Manitou Springs, Colorado to check out the local sights that including the Cave of the Winds.

In the process he finds out if the new 2014 KIA Sorento is up hauling his family and all of their stuff.

Does the 5 passenger version of the 2014 KIA Sorento work as well as the 7 passenger model?

Check out another fun and informative TFLcar road trip review as Nathan gets to judge if the new 2014 Sorento is the ultimate new age family hauling machine.

BTW: You can also watch as we take the new Sorento off-road HERE and get it very wet and muddy.

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