2016 Acura RDX

A Responsive Crossover!

By Charles Donaldson

Lately, my weekly test vehicles have been a string of good looking and well-performing crossover SUV’s. The popularity of the Crossover is attributed to their high seating which creates a better birds-eye view, plus the storage flexibility and overall seating convenience. The crossovers come in all sizes and shapes and are available from nearly every manufacturer. Needless to say, the competition has become fierce and the car companies are doing everything they can to get interested parties into their dealerships to showcase their offerings. Today’s article features the luxury compact submission from Acura – the 2016 RDX.

 The RDX entered the field as the 2013 model year and receives an update for 2016 that involves a new V-6 motor and subtle styling improvements. The front and rear fascias have been reshaped and the back also moves to LED tail lights. The headlamps transition to a level of luxury with a string of five LED lights strung like a row of immense diamonds on a bracelet. The upside down pentagon-shaped center grille creates a look of movement even standing still. The fender arches are pronounced with flattened half circles that surround the 18-inch wheels.

The 2016 Acura RDX is available as one trim level in both Front-wheel drive and All-wheel drive along with three packages: AcuraWatch Plus ($1300), Technology ($3,700), and Advance ($6,650). The standard FWD base model has an MSRP of $36,310, while the AWD advances to $37,810. You can order the AcuraWatch Plus and the Technology packages together if your wallet will allow! The AWD with intelligent control, as termed by Acura, has been retuned for 2016 sending more power to the rear wheels under acceleration for improved stability.

The cabin is comfortable and designed with a rich feel for both the eyes and touch. The left and right sides of the dash are arched like a bird’s wings with the center representing the body housing one large screen for the entertainment center and one for the operational controls. The front seats conform to eight-way adjustability, while the rear seats are snug and more suitable for smaller people. Don’t forget, the RDX is a compact crossover.

The rear cargo compartment delivers 26.1 cubic feet with the rear seat up. Levers on both sides of the rear cargo compartment allow for easy flattening of the 60/40 split-second row seats to expand the rear storage area to 61.3 cubic feet. Four tie-downs placed at each corner allow you to securely anchor your contents in place. A large speaker provides great sound for those fun tailgate parties.

Power is generated from a 3.5-liter V-6 that generates 279 horsepower at 6,200 rpms and 252 foot pounds of torque at 4,900 rpms. The 3.5-L produces plenty of muscle both off the line and on the freeway. To improve fuel economy, three of the six cylinders smoothly deactivate under lighter loads without the drive ever knowing of the transition. The fuel economy ratings are 20/city and 29/highway for the FWD and 19/18 for the AWD. The V-6 is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential SportShift paddle shifters just in case you feel sporty.

Cool Features:

·         Cylinder Deactivation

·         Rear Cross Traffic Monitor

·         Multi-View Rear Camera

·         Acura Navigation System with 3D View

Standard safety features on the 2016 Acura RDX include multi-view rear camera with guidelines, advanced compatibility engineering body structure, dual-stage multiple-threshold front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, vehicle stability Assist™ with traction control and motion adaptive steering, ABS brakes and hill start assist. Optional safety items available with certain package levels are a forward collision-warning system, collision mitigation braking system™, lane departure warning, blind spot information system, and rear cross-traffic monitor system.

In Summary – The 2016 Acura RDX is a well-styled compact luxury crossover vehicle that is great for an individual, couple or starter family. The RDX delivers decent power and is available with many high-tech features we have come to expect from Acura. The ride is smooth and the handling is confident. If you find yourself in the market for a compact luxury crossover, then the RDX is worth a test drive and your consideration.

Specifications

2016 Acura RDX AWD Advanced

Base price:                  $43,420 as driven: $44,340 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                        3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC 6-cylinder

Horsepower:               279 @ 6,200 RPM

Torque:                       252 @ 4,900 RPM

Transmission:             6-speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:            38.9 feet

Cargo space:               26.1 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3,774 pounds

Fuel capacity:              16 gallons         

EPA mileage:              City 19/Hwy 28

Wheel Base:                105.7 inches

Warranty:                    4 years/50,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Audi Q5, BMW X3, Buick Envision, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti QX
                                    50, Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC60

2016 Mazda CX-5

Athletic and Bold!

By Charles Donaldson

I was talking yesterday with a young lady in her late 20’s and the next vehicle on her shopping list needed to be an SUV or Crossover. She wanted to be free to take off camping or on a road trip with confidence knowing she could handle most terrains. Women, and quite honestly, I do as well; enjoy the extra seating height that you get with SUV’s and Crossovers. That said; let’s not forget the extra versatility and cargo capacity. One excellent choice in this very competitive market is the 2016 Mazda CX-5.

The Mazda CX-5 is heading into its fourth year and for 2016, this Mazda has been slightly updated with styling improvements and touches of refinement. Some of the changes for 2016 include a new grille, new 19” alloy wheel design on the Grand Touring trim, electronic parking brake replaces hand brake, and Bluetooth hands-free phone and Audio on Sport model. The mid-size crossover segment is crowded with fellow class mates including the Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.

For 2016, the Mazda CX-5 is featured in three trim levels: Sport ($22,083), Touring ($25,400), and Grand Touring ($28,316). The Sport is now equipped with the SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine that replaces the 2.0L on the Sport automatic transmission FWD model, where the manual transmission models keep the 2.0L. All other models come with the SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. All trim levels come standard with Front Wheel Drive and are available in All Wheel Drive. Only the Sport trim is available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Mazda is known for taking the sporty design elements of its sedans and incorporating them into their crossover vehicles. The CX-5 is no exception with its bold lines and athletic stance, big wheel arches, and a rising window line. The roofline runs similar to the recently unveiled CX-3 model – raised at the front as it melts into the rear hatch.

The interior is layered in soft-touch surfaces and premium materials that adorn the cabin. Cloth upholstery is standard; however, real leather is an available option. My test model was the Grand Touring in two-tone white and black with luxury seats. Other manufacturers have a tendency to overload a vehicle with low-end materials like replica- wood trim. The CX-5 does not follow this trend which helps contribute to its upscale interior. Mazda upgraded the CX-5’s info-tainment system for 2016, which includes a new 7-inch touch screen.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 seats four adults and one child comfortably. In the back seat, the middle bench is best reserved for smaller individuals. A child might fit best here. Behind the rear seats, the CX-5 can hold up to 34.1 cubic feet of cargo and with the rear seats folded, the capacity increases to 64.8 cubic feet.

The CX-5 engages the road as it controls winding roads with precise steering and good feedback. The ride is comfortable; however, I would give higher marks to its competitor, the Chevrolet Equinox.

Cool Features:

·         Bose® AM/FM/CD/SAT radio

·         Rear Cross Traffic Alert

·         Push Button Start

Safety on the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has very good ratings earning the best possible grade of Good in all five crash tests of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, and forward collision warning with low-speed automatic braking are available in both CX-5 models.

In Summary – The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a great crossover for the money. Many of its competitors come with more features, but at a higher price. The reworking of this Mazda   for 2016 helps to elevate the CX-5. It is worth taking a test drive and having a little fun while you’re at it.    

Specifications

2016 Mazda CX-5 Touring FWD

Base price:                  $28,220 as driven: $32,660 (including destination & optional

                                    features)

Engine:                        2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G 4-cylinder

Horsepower:               155 @ 6,000 RPM

Torque:                       150 @ 4,000 RPM

Transmission:             6-speed automatic

Drive:                          FWD Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:            36.7 feet

Cargo space:               34.1 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3,212 pounds

Fuel capacity:              14.8 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 26/Hwy 33

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                    6 years/60,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue,
                                    Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4

2016 Honda Pilot

Honda Takes Flight!

By Charles Donaldson

It seems that every automotive manufacturer assumes that when they redesign a vehicle, it has to grow in character and size. Some versions, however, end up lacking in character. In most cases, their footprint gets closer to the mammoth Big Foot, or, at least, sprouts enough so that he feels a little less cramped in the back seat! This month’s featured vehicle is the all-new, redesigned 2016 Honda Pilot, emerging with elevated character and a growth spurt.

In 2009, Honda reskinned the Pilot with a thicker and more squared-off body. This ended up being a misstep in styling as other manufacturers were edging into a softer-smoother curvy body sculpturing. Seven years later, we have a rebirth of the Pilot. In 2016, we are introduced to new sheet metal that carries softer corners resembling an overgrown Honda CRV. When the Pilot was delivered to my home, I had to take a second look, as it looks so impressive and formidable.

The 2016 Honda Pilot is a three-row crossover SUV that comes in three trim levels. It enters with the LX front-wheel drive for $31,045. It follows up with the FWD EX starting at $34,480, then as a FWD-Touring 9-speed automatic transmission for $42,070 and finishes up the top of the line, All-Wheel Drive Elite with navigation for $47,470. The LX, EX and Touring are also available in All-Wheel Drive.

Power for all models come in the form of a 280 horsepower V6 347-cc engine. The EX and LX models mate the V6 to a 6-speed automatic transmission, where the Touring and Elite are teamed with an unheard of 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The LX and EX FWD generates 19 City and 27 Highway miles per gallon. Decrease that by one mile each for the AWD versions. The Touring FWD (20/27) and AWD (19/26) and AWD Elite spits out 19 City and 26 Highway MPG.

The new Honda Pilot is longer in length, narrower and lower than its previous generation, and is also 300 pounds lighter. As noted earlier, the newly-styled Pilot has lost its hard lines and replaced them with elements of well-balanced curves. The low front-end and horizontal grille mesh well and begin the flow.

The eight-passenger interior is very well-finished and appointed with attention to detail. You can see and feel the influences of the Honda Accord and CR-V. New soft-touch points have elevated the interior to a near-luxury level. The front seats are comfortable and carved with better bolsters and more support. The driver seating position is not too high while delivering raised visibility, and the step-in is relatively low for a Crossover.

The second and third row seats fold down easily and support adult bodies with ease. The large panoramic sunroof creates an open and airy feel allowing in a great deal of light inside. Cabin space is plentiful with 18.5 cubic feet with seats up, or 56 cubic feet with the third row folded down. Need more space? When you drop the second row seat down, you will increase your cargo capacity to a total of 109-cubic feet.


Cool Features:

·         Panoramic Sunroof

·         Rear Entertainment System complete with Blu-ray player and HDMI input

·         Paddle Shifters

·         Push Button Start

·         Remote Engine Start

Safety on the 2016 Honda Pilot begins with many standard safety features, including:  side curtain airbags, even for third row seating, front seat-mounted side airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist, ABS Brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, LED daytime running lights, rear camera, Road Departure Mitigation System, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. Note some of these items are available as an option.

In Summary – Honda has upped the value-benefit proposal on the new 2016 Honda Pilot with its new interior and exterior styling, high tech features, smooth ride and safety features. If you are looking for a vehicle with plenty of storage and cargo area, you will not find many other vehicles that exceed the Pilot. This notable vehicle offers confident power and steering, while the 3.5-liter V6 surprises you with great MPG. 

Specifications

2016 Honda Pilot AWD Elite

Base price:                  $46,420 as driven: $47,300 (including destination & optional
                                    features)

Engine:                        3.5-liter I-VTEC SOHC 24-valve V6

Horsepower:               280 @ 6,000 RPM

Torque:                       262 @ 4,700 RPM

Transmission:             9-speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       8-passenger

Turning circle:            39.4 feet

Cargo space:               16 cubic feet

Curb weight:               4,317 pounds

Fuel capacity:              19.5 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 19/Hwy 26

Wheel Base:                111 inches

Warranty:                    3 years/36,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan
                                    Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander

The Outlandish Advantage! 

By Charles Donaldson

Lately, I have had a run of crossovers as my test vehicles, all with a variety of options and prices. Some of the more expensive vehicles would be dressed in the fine linens as you would expect. Occasionally, you will find a vehicle dressed for the red carpet; however, available on an import-beer budget. This describes the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander.

The 2016 Outlander totally changed my impression of Mitsubishi. For 2016, the Outlander has really upped their game in technology features in value, presentation, styling, and performance. It was designed for the family value-oriented customer.

Style changes for 2016 could add up to a mid-cycle upgrade including the addition of Mitsubishi’s Dynamic Shield front-end design styling. The new front styling continues the character flair to the backend with complementary changes throughout. The result is a clean set of sheet metal.

The 2016 Mitsubishi comes in the following trim levels: ES ($23,890), SE ($24,890),  SEL ($25,890), and GT ($31,890). The SE and SEL have optional Four-wheel drive ($2000), while the GT comes standard with Four-wheel drive. All models except for the GT come with a 166 horsepower 2.4-liter engine and an automatic CTV transmission. The GT is packaged with a 224 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 and 6-speed Sportronics automatic transmission.

I was impressed by the clean interior with very comfortable seats and that the Outlander could accommodate a group of seven. If you have fewer people, and more stuff to transport, the rear seat folds flat and over double cargo space. All three rows of seats come with headrests to improve safety. There were plenty of cup holders and storage areas throughout.

My test model was the GT and it included satellite radio and a backup camera, which are all standard. The only option we had was the GT Touring package which comprised of many safety features, such as the navigation system, forward collision mitigation system, Adaptive cruise control and a lane departure warning system.

Cool Features:

• Forward Collision Mitigation System (optional feature)
• Hill Start Assist
• Paddle Shifters

Safety on the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander begins with the standard package including many safety features. These features include: rear camera, anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, active stability control, traction control, side curtain airbags, and front seat mounted side airbags.

In Summary –Mitsubishi is striving to improve its image both in design and quality and become buyer-relevant. Mitsubishi’s hope is that the 2016 Outlander with its major mid-cycle refresh, feature offerings and attractive pricing, will generate enough buzz to deliver the value and benefit message, which in turn, will motivate buyers to add it to their list of choices.

Specifications

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander GT

Base price:                  $30,995 as driven: $35,195 (including destination & optional

                                    features)

Engine:                        3.0-liter MIVEC SOHC 24-valve 6-cylinder

Horsepower:               224 @ 6,250 RPM

Torque:                       215 @ 3,750 RPM

Transmission:             6-speed automatic

Drive:                          AWD Drive

Seating:                       7-passenger

Turning circle:            34.8 feet

Cargo space:               10.3 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3,593 pounds

Fuel capacity:              15.8 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 20/Hwy 27

Wheel Base:                105.1 inches

Warranty:                    5 years/60,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Honda CRV, Jeep Cherokee, Dodge Journey, Hyundai Santa Fe,

                                    and Subaru Outback

2016 Kia Optima

Super Bowl Proud!

By Charles Donaldson

There were a lot of quality players showing what they were made of on the field at this year’s Super Bowl and just as many in the TV commercials that aired in between the passes and catches. Not to be out done by the competition, Kia paid the big bucks to showcase its new 2016 Optima sedan.

We were sitting at my parents’ house wondering if the Panthers had it in them to make a comeback when the Optima commercial flashed on the screen. I pointed out that was the vehicle I was test driving when my 7-year-old son confirmed my comment; however, added that it was a different color. He is as observant as Payton was looking for an open wide receiver.

The 2016 Kia Optima has become a serious contender in the mid-size sedan market. Once dominated by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, Kia has found success in the Optima which is now becoming the benchmark for style and value. It is truly one of the better looking sedans on the market and packed with upgraded features found on more expensive vehicles.  

For 2016, Kia has redesigned the Optima in a way that refines the model. From the outside you might not notice some of the exterior, subtle changes. The 2016 Optima is somewhat longer, taller and wider than the 2015 version, which in turn manifests a more comfortable and roomier cabin with surprisingly, larger trunk space. The front and rear styling is softened and better detailed, displaying the maturity of its design.

Kia incorporates key experiences of the Optima’s up scaled siblings and delivers a more spacious interior, a quieter engine, reduced road noise, enhanced ride quality and refined interior trim features.

The 2016 Kia Optima is available in five trim levels: LX, LX Turbo, EX, SX Turbo, and SXL. There are three engine options which include a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (24 mpg city/35 hwy), 2.0-liter turbocharged (22 mpg city/32 hwy), and the new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (28 mpg city/39 hwy). The 2.4 GDI engine produces 185 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. The 2.0-liter turbo generates 247 horses also at 6,000 rpm. The 1.6-lier turbo available on the LX trim delivers 178 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 195 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm and is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that operates like an automatic. The Hybrid version will be reintroduced in 2017.

Besides liberating the mid-size category with its beautiful coup-like curves, the 2016 Optima continues its value benefit with a starting sticker price of only $21,990 (LX 2.4L). The LX 1.6L sells for $23,990, EX 2.4L $24,990, SX 2.0T $29,790, and the SXL 2.0T $35,890. All trim variations include: alloy wheels, rear camera system, six-way power seat, remote keyless entry, satellite radio compatibility, air conditioning, cruise control and you can order ventilated front seats and heated rear seats across the trim levels.

Cool Features:

·         Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Connectivity Systems

·         Speed Alert and Curfew Alert

·         Paddle Shifters

Safety on the 2016 Kia Optima begins with the standard rear camera and continues with a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alerts. Additionally, the UVO eServices provides several features that are useful when teenagers are driving. They include: Find My Car, Speed Alert, Geo-Fencing and Curfew Alert that give parents the ability to locate the vehicle and to receive alerts when the Optima is going too fast, too far from home, or too late at night. The SXL also includes automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control with forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, and a lane-departure warning system.

In Summary – The Kia Optima, since its first major revision in 2011, has been a game changer in the mid-size market. The redesigned 2016 Optima is refined in the exterior and interior. It went from being a niche vehicle to a successful player, with the benchmark of design and value. The performance is energetic and thrilling, and the ride quality is much improved. The 2016 Optima has once again raised the bar and Kia is optimistic about its future. I suggest taking the Optima for a spin! Be prepared with your checkbook in hand!

Specifications

2016 Kia Optima LX Turbo

Base price:                  $23,990

Engine:                        1.6-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder

Horsepower:               178 @ 5,500 RPM

Torque:                       195 @ 1,500 RPM

Transmission:             7-speed automatic

Drive:                          FWD Drive

Seating:                       5-passenger

Turning circle:            35.8 feet

Cargo space:               15.9 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3224 pounds

Fuel capacity:              18.5 gallons      

EPA mileage:              City 28/Hwy 39

Wheel Base:                110.4 inches

Warranty:                    5 years/60,000 miles powertrain limited

Also consider:             Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Subaru Legacy

2011 Kia Sorento

2011 Kia SorentoLoaded with features!



By Charles Donaldson

There are a number of reasons why we decide on a particular body style of vehicle – coupe, convertible, sedan, wagon, crossover, or SUV.  For example, we might be interested in the basic functionality, ride, fuel economy, performance, cargo capacity, or maybe even how many people we can semi-comfortably cram into it. Typically, the main reason people choose a crossover is that they want the utilitarian abilities of an SUV, but with the car-like ride and fuel sipping characteristics of a car. The trend these days is moving away from an SUV in favor of a crossover, which is why Kia has decided to re-engineer its 2011 Sorento over to a more comfortable car based crossover platform.

 The 2011 Kia Sorento is the first Kia to be built in the United States and at its new manufacturing plant in Georgia. As part of the Sorento transition, Kia skipped the 2010 model year and went straight from a 2009 to a 2011 when releasing the second-generation Sorento. Many people buy Korean cars to save money and with the Real Estate marketing being what it is today, we are all eager to save a dollar. The flip side is since our vehicle is also a major extension of our office, it could be a major sin if our interior cabin matched the quality of a college dorm verses an upscale corporate image.

So does the 2011 Sorento reflect this level of prestige? Well, the answer is yes and no. The base interior is just that basic. However, you are heading in the right direction when you upgrade to the leather interior in the EX trim. With that said even the base level Sorento comes standard with BlueTooth, USB, and auxiliary audio input jacks, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, AM/FM/CD/MP3 with satellite radio capability, telescope steering wheel, trip computer, air conditioning and more.

The LX trim adds roof rails, rear sonar, heated front seats, and backup camera with a monitor in the rear-view mirror and fog lights. The top-of-the-line EX, which is what I tested, can be packaged to approach luxury levels including navigation, heated leather seats, DVD entertainment system, third row seating, and a panoramic sunroof. The EX trim is definitely worthy of trekking clients and passengers from home to home.

The front seats are a bit hard and after sitting behind the wheel for a few hours you begin to feel it. The second row provides adequate legroom, while the third row seat is better suited for small children. With the third row seats in place, you have limited your rear storage area to about one row of grocery bags.

As pointed out above, the 2011 Kia Sorento is available in three trim levels, 2WD or 4WD drive and with two engine options. The base 2WD model starts at $20,790 followed by LX 2WD starting at $23,190, LX 4WD $24,890, EX 2WD 4-cyl $25,390, EX 4WD 4-cyl $27,090. All models come standard with a 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter 172 horsepower engine, with MPG ratings of 21 city and 29 highway-(2WD), 21 city and 27 highway (4WD). If you need more power the EX trims offer a V6 3.5-liter 273 hp motor for an additional $900.

Kia has decided to remain conservative producing a nice, yet unassuming exterior style. It wouldn’t be too difficult for the Sorento to get lost in the crowd, however, with all the cool features inside you might not care.  Still, it would have been nice if Kia could have added a more edgy exterior façade.

Room for improvement:

·         Third row seat is best suited for children

·         Hard front seats

Cool Features:

·        Standard Bluetooth ready

·        Remote engine start with Smart Key (on EX versions)

·        Optional Navigation with Traffic Data and Rear Camera Display ($2000)

Safety features on the 2011 Sorento comes in the form of air bags and lots of them: driver head and curtain, front passenger, rear curtain and rear side. Other safety features include child door locks, traction control, and optional rear camera.

In Summary – The 2011 Kia Sorento delivers a smooth ride at prices that are loaded with standard features.  The exterior styling might not be break-through, but it is a good looking vehicle. The upscale trim levels may add a few extra bucks, but do include worthwhile up- grades.

For more information and a complete list of features and specification go to www.autofastracks.com.

Specifications

2011 Kia Sorento EX FWD

Base price:                  $24,795    as driven: $29,340 (with destination charges)

Engine:                         2.4-Liter V4

Horsepower:               172 @ 6000 rpm

Torque:                       169 pound-feet @ 3750 rpm

Transmission:              Six-speed Automatic with Overdrive

Drive:                          Front-Wheel Drive

Seating:                       7-passenger

Turning circle:             35.7 feet

Cargo space:               72.5 cubic feet

Curb weight:               3605 pounds

Fuel capacity:              18 gallons

EPA mileage:              29 highway, 21 city

Wheel Base:                106.3 inches

Warranty:                    10 years/100,000 miles

Also consider:             Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Edge, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-7, and Toyota RAV4

2010 Jeep Commander

2010 Jeep CommanderCommanding the Off-Road!



 By Charles Donaldson

It’s boxy, for a big SUV. No, it’s not a Hummer it’s a 2010 Jeep Commander! Think of the last version of the Jeep Cherokee on steroids, lots of steroids. The Commander is a capable vehicle that longs for the rugged off-road terrain. It seats seven passengers comfortably and has room for your real estate signs and more! I must admit I was surprised with the fit and finish both inside and out.

Jeep buyers prefer the rough, boxy-classic style over smooth curvy lines. The Jeep Commander has a retro profile that should please the loyalist. Its styling breaks away from the current trends of softening the corners and angles of other large SUV’s. It definitely stands out in a crowd. If you ask anyone why they buy a Jeep the first thing they will tell you is because it is a true terrain, trailblazing vehicle. Taking the trail less traveled is built into the Jeep DNA!

For 2010, the Jeep Commander comes in four variations: Sport 2WD ($32,355), Sport 4WD ($34,355), Limited 2WD ($40,990), Limited 4WD ($43,610). The Overland trim was discontinued. The Sport models come with a 210 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine mated to an automatic transmission. Both Limited versions upgrade to a 5.7-liter 357 HP Hemi V8. The Commander is based off the Grand Cherokee platform and is two inches longer and 3.2 inches taller than the Grand Cherokee.

The cabin area of the 2010 Commander has comfortable front seats. The second and third row seats are stadium styled providing a better view for passengers as you drive from house to house. You would expect the legroom in the third row to be limited, yet it is suggesting that its best suited for children. I would have preferred a little more leg room in the second row, however, unless your clients are extremely tall they will remain comfortable during your house hunting expedition. Behind the third seat you have 7.5 cubic feet of cargo space that, with the second and third row seats folded down, can grow to 68.5 cubic feet.

While the outside of the Commander is masculine looking, the inside has an upscale feel. The controls and gauges are well placed and easy to use. The center console frames the optional touch screen media center and climate controls; in silver on the Sport, and a wood grain design on the Limited. Our test Sport vehicle also had the optional power sunroof with Command View 2^nd row skylights, which created an open-air feeling. The third row seat area had its own temperature controls and plenty of storage areas.

The 2010 Jeep Commander delivers a smooth ride and responsive handling. As mentioned, both models can be purchased as a 4WD which includes the basic Quadra Trac 4WD system. You can upgrade to the full-time active Quadra Trac II 4WD that includes front and rear electronic limited slip differential, hill start assist, and hill descent control.

You’ll be ready for the road with these features on the 2010 Commander: the Sport edition features 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rack, full power accessories, front and rear air conditioning, rear parking sensors, heated exterior mirrors, eight way power driver seat, and a six speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player. The Limited edition adds to the list: remote engine start, auto dimming exterior mirrors, dual zone climate control, heated second row seats, power lift gate, and driver seat memory.

Room for improvement:

·         Third row seat is best suited for children

Cool Features:

·        Overhead Skylights (optional)

·        Rear View Camera (optional)

·        Remote engine start (on Limited versions)

Safety features on the Jeep Commander include full length side curtain airbags, stability control with rollover mitigation, traction control, and antilock disc brakes. These features and more helped the 2010 Jeep Commander score high in the safety ratings earning five stars for frontal collision protection.

In Summary – The 2010 Jeep Commander offers the off road vacationers a vehicle that is capable and has the skills to meet most challenges. It does so with a comfortable interior that can be loaded with high tech features including GPS navigation, rear camera, power adjustable pedals, and a rear seat entertainment system! The styling of the Commander is unique which in this case may not be for everyone, however, for Jeep loyalists it will be a hit.

Specifications

2010 Jeep Commander Sport 4x4

Base price:                  $33,575    as driven: $38,100 (with destination charges)

Engine:                         3.7-Liter V6

Horsepower:               210 @ 5200 rpm

Torque:                       235 pound-feet @ 4000 rpm

Transmission:               Five-speed Automatic with Overdrive

Drive:                          Four-Wheel Drive

Seating:                       7-passenger

Turning circle:              38.7 feet

Cargo space:               68.5 cubic feet

Curb weight:                4710 pounds

Fuel capacity:               21.1 gallons

EPA mileage:               19 highway, 14 city

Wheel Base:                 109.5 inches

Warranty:                     5 years/100,000 miles

Also consider:              Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Explorer, Hummer H3, and Nissan Pathfinder