By Natasha M.

Pros

• Responsive handling, yet smooth as a limousine ride
• Super luxurious interior design
• Innovative features (i.e. 8-speed auto-transmission, Advanced Parking Guidance System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control)

Cons

• Exterior styling – more subtle, less “flashy” than its competitors
• Does not fit in those compact car parking spaces
• You might get a speeding ticket!

The Lexus LS 460L has the look and comfort of a luxury sedan, the energy of an SUV and the heart of a sports car. And what I enjoyed most was that it evoked euphoric feelings instantaneously by doing exactly what I wanted it to do and with such ease. Whether it was to quickly reach high speeds at a moments notice or cruise quietly with grace and style, the LS 460L definitely reminds you that cars can really have great physical and expressive design that is so desirable by any discerning car lover. Add to that a reputation of reliability and safety, and then you really have something that’s really close to perfection.

Exterior Style

Approaching the car from a distance, I saw the attractive new L-finesse design cues that create a long, sleek silhouette. Then as you come within reach of the LS 460L you’ll see how substantial in size it actually is. I knew instantly that meant there would be plenty of room for all occupants. Lexus ensured a solid design with its ultra deep drawn fenders, crystal lens headlamps, stylish front low grille, and 18” aluminum alloy wheels. The one touch power open/close button for the spacious trunk was a nice detail to mention. I believe the exterior design also has subtlety to it, a quality I think will attract (or detract) certain buyers. I assume that all depends on how much “flash” you want to show.

Performance and Handling

The Lexus LS 460L features (the first of its kind) an eight-speed automatic transmission that can bring you from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Feel free to test that number because like I said, this car can move! We gave it a go, uphill for that matter, and it was just under or right at 5 seconds. What a thrill that was! The 4.6-liter V-8 engine is an all-new design that generates up to 380 hp and 367 pounds-feet of torque. You will feel that pull back into your seat as it goes.

Normally, a high-output V8 engine translates into fewer miles per gallon. This is not the case with the LS 460. The new LS 460 features the world’s first electric-motor driven Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and Electronically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE). Combine the powerplant with an innovative 8-speed automatic transmission and the 4.6 liter, 8-cylinder engine gets a combined fuel economy at about 22 miles per gallon. Performance highlights of this new V8 engine include a dual fuel-injection system that increases efficiency and a semi-dual exhaust manifold that carries the exhaust gas in a smoother, more economical fashion.

In the future, the LS 600h hybrid version will deliver the equivalent power of a 6.0-liter V-12 while consuming the fuel equivalent of a V6. So that is another fine option worth considering. But you’ll typically get around 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway with an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) rating for the V8 according to EPA testing.

Just as important as its performance, the handling was awesome. The brakes are super smooth and highly responsive. I was also pleased that it had great shock absorbency and minimized the vibration due to uneven road conditions. The LS 460 uses a front and rear multi-link suspension system that adapts to unevenness in road surfaces. An optional air suspension control system can smooth the ride even further by minimizing road vibrations and roll sensations due to rough road conditions. Overall, the ride was very comfortable and silky-smooth.

Interior

I thoroughly enjoyed the interior design during my test drive. The standard and optional features are excellent and one of the Lexus LS 460L’s biggest triumphs. The Mark Levinson audio system features 19 speakers and has a hard drive that holds 2,000 songs. XM® factory-installed satellite radio is great for more variety along with its coverage of live traffic reporting. The 6-CD changer, DVD player and auxiliary audio input are also available and again all adjustable by the touch screen. I even noticed the slight vibration in my rear view mirror from the subwoofers that deliver near flawless audio sound.

The Gen 5 Lexus Navigation system (voice activated HDD navigation system with backup camera, Bluetooth® technology, XM NavTraffic) itself has a simple user interface that is easy to learn and use. The driver can choose to listen to the voice prompts or read the map on a large and bright touch screen display. The console is beautifully balanced and laid out in a sensible manner, within arms reach and with such ease of use.

For the driver, it has climate control front seats, heated steering wheel with wood and leather trim, 3-position driver memory system, power seatbelt shoulder height adjuster (also available for passengers), and with the navigation system, the driver has access to all the info for general car maintenance. The sunroof has a one-touch button to open and close. Most impressive is the rear back-up camera that turns on automatically once you put the car in reverse.

For passengers it offers heated rear seats with a very cool power rear sunshade. The rear seat passengers will really thank you for a tranquil and spacious ride with its extra roomy leg space due to the 460L’s long-wheelbase that provides an added space of 4.8 inches. Rear-seat passengers can also enjoy reclining seats and an optional cooler to keep drinks chilled. Lexus designed the 460L as a chauffeured vehicle allowing that special VIP to recline up to a 45 degree angle with its available ottoman option and massage function (for the right-side rear seat only). The advanced climate control system even has infra-red sensors that measure both the cabin temperature and body temperature of the occupants (along w/ outside temp).

(Continued on page 2)

by Natasha M.
(Article updated Aug 2010)

Pros:

• Drivability
• Safety features
• Storage

Cons:

• Engine power
• Expect to pay more for added upgrades & amenities

Ruling:
The Caliber displays a rugged design yet its smaller engine that fortunately saves on gas offsets itself on engine power and acceleration.

Driving along the California coastline is no doubt a breath-taking scenic experience. But underestimate that tricky terrain – the narrow two-lane roads, overhanging cliffs, and gravelly shoulders – and you might be in for an unexpected treacherous “off-road” adventure! Which is why choosing the right car to safely maneuver the tricky terrain is your best bet. Cue the music and enter stage left the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber crossover utility vehicle.

The 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT was a steady drive that did well with its tight turning radius and stable handling of curvy roads. Our test vehicle featured the optional 2.0-liter, 16-valve dual VVT, 158 horsepower engine (available for the SE, SXT and SXT Sport) which was upgraded from the 1.8-liter, 148 HP engine. The R/T model has the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, 172 HP engine. The 17” wheels with Firestone tires gripped the road well but lost its aesthetic impact due to the silver wheel covers that just can’t match the same appeal as the chrome-clad aluminum alloy wheels offered only in the R/T.

The bold, boxy exterior design does create an aggressive feel especially with the signature Dodge crosshair grill, oversized halogen headlamps and sharp outline of its rear liftgate. I would probably compare it more to a crossover wagon than a crossover SUV (such as the 2007 GMC Acadia) because it appeared more similar in size and stamina to a hatchback wagon.

The acceleration and power was also equal to more of a car than an SUV. The positive side is that it’s more marketable because of its smaller engine that is more fuel-efficient with its estimated gas mileage of 26 MPG in city and 30 MPG highway and its versatility as a five-door design.

When it comes to safety and security, Caliber did well to make the grade. I learned that the 2007 Dodge Caliber received the highest frontal and side crash-test rating from the government with five stars. It also offers ESP (Electronic Stability Program) that’s designed to assist drivers in maintaining control of their vehicles during extreme steering maneuvers. The Anti-lock brakes are standard on the RT and they also come standard on the SE and SXT when it is equipped with the automatic transmission.

The fun part of the 2007 Dodge Caliber are all the neat options to add splashes of color and special amenities that fit any active lifestyle. Neat interior highlights that I really liked were the beverage cooler (the “chill zone” fits up to 4 bottles or cans), removable & rechargeable overhead cargo flashlight, multi-tiered glove box, MP3 (iPod or Cell Phone) holder in the adjustable armrest, and fold-flat seating that extends your cargo space. I wasn’t thrilled about the vinyl cargo-area load floor but on the good side it makes it durable and washable. Other favorable features include an option for hands-free phone (uConnect), satellite radio, stain resistant fabric and many other very cool features.

But be aware that all of these modern conveniences are found mostly in the R/T model. The SE offers the bare minimum. The SXT model is a step up with some basic amenities and the R/T offers all the bonuses that make any car more functional and exciting. My thought is that buyers should budget much higher than the MSRP starting price of $14,285. This can be the Caliber’s big drawback because you’re almost encouraged to go for the gold with the R/T while there are just as reliable cars (fully loaded) in the same price range.

Editor’s note: SUV/crossover utility vehicles similar in class are the Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. Similar hatchback wagons include the Ford Focus Wagon, Chevrolet HHR, Pontiac Vibe, and Subaru Outback

###

News About the 2012 Dodge Caliber

A redesigned Dodge Caliber compact car is near the top of the to-do list for the new Chrysler Group LLC and its Italian partner, Fiat Auto. The replacement, which may get a new name, is expected to start sale in calendar 2011 as an early 2012 model, timing that would make it the American automaker’s first post-bankruptcy product to reach consumers.

Various sources indicate the 2012 Dodge Caliber will be built on Fiat’s C-Evo platform, a new architecture that can be varied to host a variety of “C-segment” vehicles. This means the new Caliber will compare to compact cars and crossover SUVs of the same general size as the Ford Focus and new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. Aimed to compete with the new Audi A1 and BMW 1 Series, the platform uses 84 percent high and ultrahigh strength steel, a McPherson front and a dual-link rear suspension, both of which will use aluminum components (front and rear arms, along with the crossmember). The platform comes in around 10 percent lighter than its predecessor thanks to the use of aluminum and magnesium, and is designed to fit a transverse engine and can be adapted for either front- or all-wheel drive applications.

2007 Dodge Caliber Photo Gallery	2007 Dodge Caliber Specs
Official website for Dodge cars, hybrids, trucks, and SUVs – www.dodge.com

By Natasha M.

Test driving the new 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid on a sunny day through downtown streets and on the highway proved to be more pleasant than I expected. The car definitely lived up to its renowned traits of reliability and quality. But what surprised me was the new look Toyota achieved with this hybrid model. On the outside, the new look is actually more refined than the standard Camry design. The dazzling grill surprised me because I don’t believe I’ve seen it on other models and with this much extra chrome. They even carried it through to the lower bumper valance that is usually left behind.

The look of a more athletic and elegant car is apparent from the standard 16” wheel size to the smooth and fluid curves of the body. From the halogen headlamps (with auto on-off functionality) to the grill, you will like what you see. I believe the new style will definitely attract more people who already love the Camry because it simply looks better along with saving on the pocket with its efficient fuel economy and low environmental impact. Under the hood, you get the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that gives good acceleration. I noticed climbing up a hill it needed just a little extra effort but that is basically what you would come to expect from a four cylinder engine. I learned the Camry Hybrid uses Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system that through careful science achieves both fuel-efficiency and extra horsepower. It’s estimated to get 43/27 mpg but I had a limited test drive so I’m not totally sure of the reliability of the EPA estimates. But overall, the drive was great and I didn’t have any criticisms about steering, braking or driving characteristics of the Camry Hybrid.

The Camry Hybrid has an awesome digital navigation system with LCD touch screen. It’s packed with info such as battery life, cruising range, and gas-mileage readouts. There’s even an overhead schematic of the car. Probably not that useful for me but great for the super-conscience person that understands it all. I had to go back and forth with the push buttons to reach the menu to find simple things like the CD player. Once I figured that out, I saw the coolest thing. The LCD screen softly flips open to reveal the disc changer behind it. There’s a tiny delay so a little patience is needed. The voice-command dialing with virtual keypad was neat for the Bluetooth-enabled hands free calling setup. But what drove me crazy was the voice-activated GPS navigation. I had to either turn it off or lower the sound level. My advice, definitely learn how to operate the system before hitting the road to make sure you see and hear what you want (not to mention that it’s a huge safety measure!)

I loved the contemporary console and the leather-appointed interiors because it looked modern and simple. There’s plenty of legroom for backseat passengers, durable seatback pockets (not cloth so they won’t bend out of shape) and adequate trunk space. The keyless start, advanced air bag system and tire-pressure monitoring system are just a few of the many bonuses you get that carries this hybrid up to the level of the newer and more high-tech cars of our time. It’s great that you can get all of this in a hybrid but I’m sure the price tag will be the “dent” in this package. I think the new 2007 Camry Hybrid is a great pick that will save you money in the long run. It’s a great commuter and family car that you’ll be proud to drive for years to come.

###

2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid Photo Gallery	2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid Specs
The official website of Toyota – www.toyota.com

Test car generously provided by Stevens Creek Toyota of San Jose, CA

]]> http://reviews.carreview.com/2007-toyota-camry-hybrid-review-2/feed 0