Casey Gelvin
2009 Ford Flex Vehicle Overview

Introduction

It wasn't too long ago that minivans reigned supreme as the go-to
choice of growing families across the country. In recent years,
however, minivan sales have declined due to the arrival of
seven-passenger crossover SUVs, which allow moms and dads to look and
feel a little more stylish while transporting their broods. These
crossovers don't offer as much utility, however. So what if an
automaker attempted to marry the "cool factor" of a crossover SUV and
the unbeatable practicality of a minivan's shoebox-like shape? The
result would probably end up something like the 2009 Ford Flex.

With styling inspired by vintage vacuum cleaners and an overall
shape that resembles a super-sized cross between a first-generation
Scion xB and a Mini Cooper Clubman, it's safe to say there's nothing
else quite like the Ford Flex on the road today. Though the Flex shares
its underpinnings and powertrain with the capable but anonymously
styled Taurus X, its daring design sets it apart from the legions of
look-alike crossovers roaming our roads. Fortunately for Ford, the
Flex's appeal is much more than skin-deep. For example, it offers one
of the highest-quality interiors we've seen from Ford in a long time,
replete with plentiful soft-touch surfaces and an expensive-looking
design. Ford's innovative Sync MP3 player and phone interface system is
also available, as is a Vista sunroof, which consists of four fixed
glass panels that brighten up the cabin for second- and third-row
occupants. Add a reasonably powerful 3.5-liter V6 to the mix, along
with available all-wheel drive, and you've got all the ingredients of a
crowd-pleasing people mover.

Profile Casey Gelvin
2008 Lincoln MKS Overview

Introduction

Lincoln hasn't always kept up with the competition in the luxury
sedan segment. As rivals evolved with more avant-garde styling, better
handing and the latest technology, Lincoln lagged behind, struggling to
break free of its antiquated image. Earlier in this decade, the brand
introduced its midsize LS sedan to much fanfare, but sales numbers fell
short of expectations. More recently, Lincoln rolled out the
entry-level MKZ sedan, but in our eyes, this model doesn't do enough to
distinguish itself from its mundane Ford Fusion sibling. Now, Ford's
premium division is trying again with the 2009 Lincoln MKS.

The MKS is the company's new full-size flagship. It's based on
Ford's D3 platform, the same one used on the previous-generation Volvo
S80 and the current-generation Ford Taurus. Given this pedigree, you're
pretty much guaranteed a roomy interior and good safety scores, but we
question whether it's an appropriate choice for what Lincoln identifies
as its "luxury flagship." The base MKS is a front-wheel-drive sedan,
but an all-wheel-drive option is available. For now, the MKS comes with
just one engine: a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6. Next year, Lincoln
promises a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that should produce about 340
hp.

The 2009 Lincoln MKS has some things going for it, including a
bevy of standard features, an attractively laid out interior and a
remarkably comfortable backseat. If these traits appeal to you,
Lincon's newest sedan is worth a look. However, overall performance
frankly isn't up to snuff, and the interior loses some of its luster
upon closer inspection, evincing too many low-quality plastics. There
are plenty of other choices to consider at this elevated price point,
including the Acura TL, Lexus ES 350 and Volvo S80. The MKS also sits
price-wise near the new rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis, and those
looking for a similar front-wheel-drive package at a lower price may
find the Hyundai Azera or Toyota Avalon more to their liking. In other
words, the 2009 MKS -- with a price tag of more than $45,000 when well
equipped -- is up against some stiff competition.

Anne Gelvin

Read about Casey Gelvin: Driving Impressions

The 2009 Volvo XC90 3.2 model provides barely adequate
acceleration, and it doesn't sound particularly pleasant, either. The
V8 model's performance and refinement are vastly superior, and its fuel
economy is only marginally worse. Both XC90 models ride comfortably in
standard form, but don't expect them to tackle corners with enthusiasm
like the Acura MDX or BMW X5. The R-Design models are better suited to
energetic driving, what with their sport-tuned suspensions and steering
systems.

2008 Volkswagen Tiguan Vehicle Overview

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Driving Impressions

Spirited acceleration is almost always on tap thanks to the
turbo-4's broad power band. In corners, the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan's
body remains poised. Most compact SUVs tend to skate over rough
surfaces, but the Tiguan remains firmly planted while tracking
steadily. To add an extra measure of durability for rough road use,
there's high-strength steel in the frame plus heavy-duty dampers.

The Tiguan's electromechanically assisted steering does a decent
job of imitating a traditional hydraulic setup. The assist starts soft
and builds to a moderate amount of effort that won't tax even the
skinniest of arms. There's not much effort needed for the brake pedal
either, as it delivers plenty of stopping power with a modest push.

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New articles about Anne Gelvin: 2009 Nissan Maxima Vehicle Overview

Introduction

We can already hear the complaints: "I am not paying $36,000 for a
Nissan sedan." We understand. For that kind of money, you could be
driving an Infiniti, a BMW or even a Mercedes. They must be smokin'
something interesting at Nissan's Tennessee headquarters, right? Well,
they're not as nutty as you may think, as the all-new 2009 Nissan
Maxima is a high-quality entry-level luxury sedan that is well worth
the fair amount of cash Nissan's charging for it. In fact, when fully
loaded, it undercuts similarly equipped luxury-badged sedans by
thousands, while in some cases being dynamically superior.

While wrapped in sharp, unique styling, the '09 Maxima was put
together using the best bits and pieces found in the Nissan and
Infiniti warehouses. The basic front-wheel-drive architecture comes
from the sporty Altima midsize sedan; however, its length was reduced
and width increased to improve handling. Nissan's ubiquitous 3.5-liter
V6 shows up yet again, in this case with an ample 290 horsepower on
tap. The Altima's excellent continuously variable transmission (CVT) is
the lone transmission choice, but in the Maxima's SV trim, it comes
with metal paddle shifters that control artificial transmission "gear"
ratios. The low-friction, high-feel power steering is similar to the
Altima too, but once again, it was upgraded to provide a more
driver-focused feel.

About Anne Gelvin

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a compact four-door hatchback/wagon that
essentially comes in two trim levels: base and GT, though the base can
also be had with all-wheel drive (AWD).

The base Vibe features include 16-inch wheels, a four-speaker
audio system (with satellite radio, a CD player and an auxiliary audio
jack) and a tilt/telescoping steering column. Most buyers will probably
want the base with the 1SB package, which adds a more powerful engine,
a rear cargo organizer and a fold-flat front passenger seat. The AWD
version adds all-wheel drive, sport suspension (with independent rear
setup), a luggage rack and air-conditioning. The GT is outfitted like
the AWD minus the all-wheel drive and adds a rear spoiler, 18-inch
alloy wheels, an upgraded 320-watt audio system with MP3 playback, full
power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry, leather/cloth sport
seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel (with audio controls) and
shift knob.

For all but the GT there is the available Preferred Package, which
provides full power accessories, cruise control and keyless entry. A
Sun and Sound package is available for the two middle trims and
includes a sunroof, the GT's audio system and the leather-wrapped
steering wheel and shift knob. À la carte options for the lower trims
include air-conditioning, the rear cargo organizer and an anti-theft
system.