Topic 'Re: Autos in the US' in forum 'Automotive Social' - dslreports.com http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25564028 en Sat, 26 Mar 2022 03:49:59 EDT Sat, 26 Mar 2022 03:49:59 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25667733 said by Gbcue:

Except the G35 is upwards of 40k.

Damn. When did it get so expensive? I got mine for under $35k and it was loaded. Didn't realize they start at $38k now.

Looks like the G25 starts at ~ $30k now.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25667733 Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:16:08 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652886 said by CylonRed:

quote:
CylonRed has noticed how clean I keep the inside of my doors, which will never rust.


Never?!?!?!? Sorry but you lost it right there....

I should have made myself more clear.
It will never rust while I own it. Nothing I own will rust while I own it.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652886 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:26:26 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652734 said by Cambobound:

said by cmaenginsb1:

The biggest difference I see in those pics is that the Dodge sits higher with bigger diameter tires and wheels and therefore looks taller. That and the Mazda body tapers more which might influence interior space.
The hatch as well as the body on the Dodge looks narrower as well. Without a full side pic, it's very difficult to really say which one is bigger unless you've actually tried to load crap into both.

My wife and I own our own small business. We are importers, and sell both retail and wholesale to various businesses. We have a 16' box truck, her 2006 T&C, and now my Caliber R/T. The R/T is important in that it has the largest of three engines available, and is also available without that bullshit AWD that cars don't need. Ask anyone raised in a snowy climate who grew up driving cars huge boats with one rear wheel moving it.
I'm not sure why you imply that my 2.4 engine has somehow lost power (compression?) since I bought it, but that's a load of crap, and you know it.

At least you are a Mazda3 owner, and very familiar with your car. I am also familiar with your car. To save fuel, we take the smallest vehicle necessary down to Chicago and/or Skokie, IL weekly to pick up our merchandise. When the time came to replace my aging and beloved '92 Saturn SL2, I looked at the Mazda3, and a 5, a Cooper, the Versa (puke), a very short look at Pontiac's Vibe (ugh), and a couple of sedans. Then, I spotted this car out of the corner of my eye while walking the Carmax lot. Knowing the sizes of the cartons we regularly receive, my habit of taking roads trips for camping and mountain biking in hard to get to places, this was the car I know would be most suitable for my needs. I am happy if you are pleased with your car, which by the way, I think looks cute.

As far as I'm concerned, all cars, every goddamned one of them no matter what the cost, are a crap shoot. I've seen them all, new and old, cheap and expensive, fuck up. Japanese cars bug me for a variety of small, pointless reasons to most people, but to me, these points matter a lot. That stupid hand brake on the driver's side and the asymmetrical layout of the inside and outside are always a deal killer for me. I take care of my shit, so all of my shit lasts forever. Hopefully, CylonRed has noticed how clean I keep the inside of my doors, which will never rust. The car is just about four years old now.

It just so happens that I shot down to Skokie this morning. I expected a comment or two about this this morning, so I took a few pictures. I'm sorry, but you're not going to get all of these boxes in the car. You'd be lucky to get four of them in there with that low ceiling. Your car is a cute little car, but it lacks the power, the versatility, and as far as I'm concerned, the conveniences a 52 year old likes in a car.

I know you have your own importing business, as does anyone who follows the automotive threads here on DSLR.

I never implied your car has lost power but that if you went to a dealer showroom to compare the two cars today the Mazda has more power then the stock Caliber, but I missed you had the R/T, even compared to the R/T, the 3 is very close in terms of HP/torque but is also 300 lbs lighter.

The side by side photos show that both cars appear to the about the same length, but again I'd rather simply go by the specs which show you have greater cargo space.

As to the boxes, it happens those boxes appear to be about the same size as a similiar batch I had to load into the 3. I'd be able to fit all of them in the car, but wouldn't have the same rear visibility you had.

I'm glad you find my car "cute", but we can argue astetics (sp) all day but in the end beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

BTW, I actually have the Speed 3 which as you probably know has quite a bit more power and torque then the R/T.

To clarify, I'm not disputing that you have more cargo volume, the specs don't lie. I'm not disputing you have more power then a stock 3 of the same year, but then again the 3 will be lighter making the power difference seem smaller. I also agree that choosing a car is all about getting something that meets the purchasers needs and style so while the Caliber is great for you, it might not be for gbque or me.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652734 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:51:14 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652569 quote:
CylonRed has noticed how clean I keep the inside of my doors, which will never rust.

Never?!?!?!? Sorry but you lost it right there....
--
Brian

"It drops into your stomach like a Abrams's tank.... driven by Rosanne Barr..." A. Bourdain]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652569 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:21:01 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652496 said by cmaenginsb1:

The biggest difference I see in those pics is that the Dodge sits higher with bigger diameter tires and wheels and therefore looks taller. That and the Mazda body tapers more which might influence interior space.
The hatch as well as the body on the Dodge looks narrower as well. Without a full side pic, it's very difficult to really say which one is bigger unless you've actually tried to load crap into both.

My wife and I own our own small business. We are importers, and sell both retail and wholesale to various businesses. We have a 16' box truck, her 2006 T&C, and now my Caliber R/T. The R/T is important in that it has the largest of three engines available, and is also available without that bullshit AWD that cars don't need. Ask anyone raised in a snowy climate who grew up driving cars huge boats with one rear wheel moving it.
I'm not sure why you imply that my 2.4 engine has somehow lost power (compression?) since I bought it, but that's a load of crap, and you know it.

At least you are a Mazda3 owner, and very familiar with your car. I am also familiar with your car. To save fuel, we take the smallest vehicle necessary down to Chicago and/or Skokie, IL weekly to pick up our merchandise. When the time came to replace my aging and beloved '92 Saturn SL2, I looked at the Mazda3, and a 5, a Cooper, the Versa (puke), a very short look at Pontiac's Vibe (ugh), and a couple of sedans. Then, I spotted this car out of the corner of my eye while walking the Carmax lot. Knowing the sizes of the cartons we regularly receive, my habit of taking roads trips for camping and mountain biking in hard to get to places, this was the car I know would be most suitable for my needs. I am happy if you are pleased with your car, which by the way, I think looks cute.

As far as I'm concerned, all cars, every goddamned one of them no matter what the cost, are a crap shoot. I've seen them all, new and old, cheap and expensive, fuck up. Japanese cars bug me for a variety of small, pointless reasons to most people, but to me, these points matter a lot. That stupid hand brake on the driver's side and the asymmetrical layout of the inside and outside are always a deal killer for me. I take care of my shit, so all of my shit lasts forever. Hopefully, CylonRed has noticed how clean I keep the inside of my doors, which will never rust. The car is just about four years old now.

It just so happens that I shot down to Skokie this morning. I expected a comment or two about this this morning, so I took a few pictures. I'm sorry, but you're not going to get all of these boxes in the car. You'd be lucky to get four of them in there with that low ceiling. Your car is a cute little car, but it lacks the power, the versatility, and as far as I'm concerned, the conveniences a 52 year old likes in a car.
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]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652496 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:09:56 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652037 said by Gbcue:

said by Cambobound:

said by BonezX:

i found the mazada3 MUCH bigger.

You need a trip to the optometrist, too.

Inside, not outside, that matters.

As a Mazda 3 owner, I'd be willing to say that overall the Caliber is going to be slightly bigger.

MFG stats tend to back this up to. Interior room of the Caliber with rear seats folded is 48 cu feet vs 42.8 for the Mazda.

Personally I find the Caliber dog ugly, but it does offer better ground clearance if you like to camp alot. Also while it might have had more power when he bought it, today the Mazda out powers the Caliber.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25652037 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:24:35 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25651974 said by Cambobound:

said by BonezX:

i found the mazada3 MUCH bigger.

You need a trip to the optometrist, too.

The biggest difference I see in those pics is that the Dodge sits higher with bigger diameter tires and wheels and therefore looks taller. That and the Mazda body tapers more which might influence interior space.

The hatch as well as the body on the Dodge looks narrower as well. Without a full side pic, it's very difficult to really say which one is bigger unless you've actually tried to load crap into both.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25651974 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:13:47 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25651126 said by Cambobound:

said by BonezX:

i found the mazada3 MUCH bigger.

You need a trip to the optometrist, too.

Inside, not outside, that matters.
--
My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25651126 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 10:26:41 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650522 said by BonezX:

i'm sure if the mazda looked like a lifted pos dodge product, it would probably be the same height.

?

The Dodge is larger. I sat in the Mazda3 while car shopping, and it's smaller... both inside and out. And its doors are thin. I needed a larger, more powerful car, and I got one. The Caliber R/T clearly falls between the Mazda3 and the Mazda5. Your hatred of Dodge is clouding your judgement.

But, I like Mazda - one of my favorite cars was a 1983 626.
I doubt you were even born yet.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650522 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 06:55:24 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650474
i'm sure if the mazda looked like a lifted pos dodge product, it would probably be the same height.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650474 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 06:08:29 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650443 said by BonezX:

i found the mazada3 MUCH bigger.

You need a trip to the optometrist, too.
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]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25650443 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 05:14:06 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646980 said by Gbcue:

said by J E F F4:

Doesn't Ford have the Fiesta? Or is that not made in America?

Made in Mexico. No thanks. I would even prefer Canada over Mexico.

Why?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646980 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:44:53 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646586 said by Gbcue:

said by J E F F4:

Doesn't Ford have the Fiesta? Or is that not made in America?

Made in Mexico. No thanks. I would even prefer Canada over Mexico.

First thing I look for -- Country Code. I think most have mine have started with a '1' -- US. My only crap car I had started with a '3' (Mexico).
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If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough. - Albert Einstein]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646586 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:32:54 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646535 said by J E F F4:

Doesn't Ford have the Fiesta? Or is that not made in America?

Made in Mexico. No thanks. I would even prefer Canada over Mexico.
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My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646535 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:22:00 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646306 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25646306 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 10:34:57 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25643005 said by itguy05:

said by Gbcue:

The amenities in those sub-$20k hatches aren't great, then if you go up in price, such as to Acura, Lexus, or Infiniti, there are nothing but big bloated vehicles.

That's funny. I had a G35 and it was neither big nor bloated. It actually felt a tad small and cramped. And being it was a 6MT I got 25-27 MPG on the highway in RWD form.

Now I have a 2010 Taurus SHO, AWD. I get around 22-25 on the highway. Not bad for a 4,300 lb porker huge car with AWD and the power to blow the doors off most cars on the road today.

Except the G35 is upwards of 40k.
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My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25643005 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 15:16:21 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25642672 said by Gbcue:

The amenities in those sub-$20k hatches aren't great, then if you go up in price, such as to Acura, Lexus, or Infiniti, there are nothing but big bloated vehicles.

That's funny. I had a G35 and it was neither big nor bloated. It actually felt a tad small and cramped. And being it was a 6MT I got 25-27 MPG on the highway in RWD form.

Now I have a 2010 Taurus SHO, AWD. I get around 22-25 on the highway. Not bad for a 4,300 lb porker huge car with AWD and the power to blow the doors off most cars on the road today.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25642672 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:02:39 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25642659 quote:
Edit: that site I found is rather interesting. I didn't realize there was ever a mustang that was rated to get 40mpg! The 82 and 83 4 banger manual.


But you never got it. I owned one - 86 Mustang LX 2.3L 4, with a 4 speed stick. SLOW would be an understatement. The throttle had 2 positions - floor and idle. Probably averaged about 20-25 MPG. When I got my first "real" car in 1998, a 1997 Mustang Cobra the gas mileage was about the same on the highway but abysmal in the city. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25642659 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:00:11 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25636712 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25636712 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 07:40:53 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25633225
You know there are countries where people pay $9 a gallon for gas and everyone drives little cars. Why don't you move there?
--
VGMasters my video game forum]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25633225 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 03:20:48 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25633131 said by Cho Baka:

It is a shame that we as a market are so fixated on size, as we miss out on some great cars as a result.

that's not working in strange emissions laws, and crappy gas quality.
said by Cambobound:

Muscles, the Mazda3 is an awfully small car - the Caliber R/T is not.
And when I look at that dashboard, the word that comes to mind is chaos. All of those buttons on the steering wheel look like shit, too. My stereo buttons are on the steering wheel also, but behind it, like the cruise handle.

i drove a caliber when i was working security, it's no bigger inside then my sunfire(visibility in the cal was completely crap). i found the mazada3 MUCH bigger.

and people that complain about gauges, should drive a toaster or an oven and not a car.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25633131 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 01:52:16 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25632249 said by sk1939:

I drive a '93 Geo ...

lol]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25632249 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:59:08 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25632012
I drive a '93 Geo with almost 250k miles, and the only think I've EVER had to replace on it have been the basics, 1 ABS sensor, and an alternator. Match that with your Dodge, I bet you won't be able to.

SUV's are wasteful, as most people who buy them use them for little more than people carrying, a glorified Minivan if you will. I don't understand the lure of them to people who don't transport people, off-road, or haul things.

As far as ground clearance goes, most people don't care about that. 95% of the population doesn't ever go off-road so that doesn't really factor into a car buying decision. The parking brake handle placement is hardly important, and having on the floor in more of a pain than anything else.

If your considering buying a hatch or a small car things like being able to sleep in it doesn't really matter to you, cause chances are you live in the suburbs or the city, where such things are unimportant. Know your user group, cars in the US are marketed the way they are for a reason. In Europe small cars are practical because everything is so close, you could live in Germany, and practically take a day trip to Italy, I know because I've done it. You'd be hard pressed to live in DC and take a day trip to Miami or some such. The differences have to do with culture, geography, and whats important to people.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25632012 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:44:32 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25631929 said by Muscles:

As you see above Toyota can easily make a simple instrument cluster without torturing your senses.

Much better - and I'll bet it has all the options that that Mazda had.
But, foreign cars are much too small overall, and there's that damn parking brake handle on the driver's side again. Oh, and I hate LCD displays - they don't work worth a damn during the winters around here.

To TheGeek, I just found your Ford Fusion in the Post a Picture thread. If that kind of car suits you, swell. But I can take my cars to places a car like yours can't possibly travel to. Good luck getting to these campsites pictured without ripping out the bottom of your car or getting stuck.
And it can't fit my mountain bike, my camping gear, and allow me to stretch out for sleeping if it's too cold for my tent at the same time. Plus, your car looks like any one of a million others.
My rear passengers can enjoy reclining their seats, the cup holders are illuminated, the speakers in the hatch are great for sending music to the outside of the car, and it has the same clearance that my buddy's Chevy pick-up truck - maybe even a slight bit more.

Gbcue, I don't understand your first question. The second question is easy to answer - most people probably learn what each button does very quickly. You sound kind of young and naive by asking that question, actually.
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How do you know what butt you're pressing if you can't see them?

It gets easier once you've dated for a while.





Too good to just let it go.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25631367 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 15:23:20 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25631206
How do you know what butt you're pressing if you can't see them?
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My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25631206 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 14:19:08 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25631022 said by Cambobound:

said by thegeek:

You're driving a cross between a minivan and a station wagon.

Sure. You had better get your eyes checked.
What do you drive?

Muscles, the Mazda3 is an awfully small car - the Caliber R/T is not.
And when I look at that dashboard, the word that comes to mind is chaos. All of those buttons on the steering wheel look like shit, too. My stereo buttons are on the steering wheel also, but behind it, like the cruise handle.

As you see above Toyota can easily make a simple instrument cluster without torturing your senses.
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You're driving a cross between a minivan and a station wagon.

Sure. You had better get your eyes checked.
What do you drive?

Muscles, the Mazda3 is an awfully small car - the Caliber R/T is not.
And when I look at that dashboard, the word that comes to mind is chaos. All of those buttons on the steering wheel look like shit, too. My stereo buttons are on the steering wheel also, but behind it, like the cruise handle.
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]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25630288 Sat, 19 Mar 2011 07:50:31 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628744 said by sapo:

Hatchbacks are great, maybe if you are a tub of lard it won't appeal to you and you will need a big truck.

Concurred. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628744 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:16:46 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628727 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628727 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:13:13 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628715
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]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25628715 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:09:02 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25626019 said by Cambobound:

said by Gbcue:

Most of the things you put aren't even "high end" amenities. Plus, it's a Dodge, the worst car company out there, so their implementations are probably subprime.

The inverter is awesome for my notebook computer, a portable dvd player for road trips and I don't need to buy a car charger for my mobile phone.
Side airbags are not standard on all cars.
I've used that flashlight countless times. It's always there and ready to go.
The suspension is important with the larger, faster engine the R/Ts have.
Many cars, even imports, have rear drum brakes.
I like how the 18" chrome wheels look.

I have put 50,000 fast miles on this car in 28 months with no problems. If the majority of people believe Dodge makes a shitty vehicle, then I'd say I made a very good decision buying one.

That's all great but...

You're driving a cross between a minivan and a station wagon. Minus 100 man points.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25626019 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 07:48:43 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625678 --
[65 Arcanist]Filan(High Elf) Zone: Broadband Reports]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625678 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 01:32:37 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625606 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625606 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:53:13 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625517 said by Gbcue:

said by Cambobound:

said by Gbcue:

See, just one car.

My 2007 Dodge (a favorite of this forum) Caliber R/T has:

Blue Tooth
Voice Recognition System
Heated Leather
Built-in AC Inverter-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Front and Side Curtain Airbags-really? These are standard in all cars now.
Auto-tint Rear View Mirror
Re-chargeable Flashlight at Rear Dome Light-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Glove Compartment Cooling System (Chill Zone)-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Traction Control and ABS-really? These are standard in all cars now.
Sun/Moon Roof
Auto Climate Control
Nine Speaker Boston Audio System (6 disc changer, Cassette, Satellite)
Sport Suspension-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
4-Wheel Disc Brakes-really? These are standard in all cars now.
18" Alloy Rims-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.

Back-up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, push button start and integrated navigation are unnecessary features that cost a lot of money.

Let me correct you.

Back up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, nav, and PBS should be options, they're not even available in most cars.

Most of the things you put aren't even "high end" amenities. Plus, it's a Dodge, the worst car company out there, so their implementations are probably subprime.

Why should LED tail lights be an option? Almost all of the "entry" wagon/hatches (ie same category as the Ford/Mazda I posted) have a backup camera and push button start.

The backup camera I can see but what is the attraction to PBS? ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625517 Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:15:20 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625246
id say my mom's Subaru Outback XT Wagon performs better overall and actually corners better but the Impala has a better ride for a long car trip.

However if you want a good wagon, there is Subaru.
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[65 Arcanist]Filan(High Elf) Zone: Broadband Reports]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25625246 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 22:49:37 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25623117 said by Gbcue:

Most of the things you put aren't even "high end" amenities. Plus, it's a Dodge, the worst car company out there, so their implementations are probably subprime.

The inverter is awesome for my notebook computer, a portable dvd player for road trips and I don't need to buy a car charger for my mobile phone.
Side airbags are not standard on all cars.
I've used that flashlight countless times. It's always there and ready to go.
The suspension is important with the larger, faster engine the R/Ts have.
Many cars, even imports, have rear drum brakes.
I like how the 18" chrome wheels look.

I have put 50,000 fast miles on this car in 28 months with no problems. If the majority of people believe Dodge makes a shitty vehicle, then I'd say I made a very good decision buying one.
Click for full size
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25623117 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:49:41 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25622168 said by Cambobound:

said by Gbcue:

See, just one car.

My 2007 Dodge (a favorite of this forum) Caliber R/T has:

Blue Tooth
Voice Recognition System
Heated Leather
Built-in AC Inverter-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Front and Side Curtain Airbags-really? These are standard in all cars now.
Auto-tint Rear View Mirror
Re-chargeable Flashlight at Rear Dome Light-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Glove Compartment Cooling System (Chill Zone)-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
Traction Control and ABS-really? These are standard in all cars now.
Sun/Moon Roof
Auto Climate Control
Nine Speaker Boston Audio System (6 disc changer, Cassette, Satellite)
Sport Suspension-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.
4-Wheel Disc Brakes-really? These are standard in all cars now.
18" Alloy Rims-see your comment at the bottom about unnecessary features about $.

Back-up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, push button start and integrated navigation are unnecessary features that cost a lot of money.

Let me correct you.

Back up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, nav, and PBS should be options, they're not even available in most cars.

Most of the things you put aren't even "high end" amenities. Plus, it's a Dodge, the worst car company out there, so their implementations are probably subprime.
--
My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25622168 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:35:40 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25622015 said by Cambobound:

Back-up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, push button start and integrated navigation are unnecessary features that cost a lot of money.

I agree with all of this except the backup camera. Although it should never be used as a replacement of mirrors and actually turning around and looking, it is an excellent tool to use when fitting into tight places. And it is also a great safety tool. I have several small children, and although they no better to run out into the driveway when I'm backing out of the garage, I like being able to see a wide angle just outside the door before the car actually gets out of the door. I can't wait for cars to start having cameras in the front. I think it is available in some cars now. This will be an excellent feature for my wife so she stops hitting the fucking back wall of the garage when she pulls in.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25622015 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:05:02 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621758
In the cities they have space issues so small cars have even more demand for the regular folks.

Here - small cars get popular only when the price of gas goes up. Otherwise - the majority of car buyers buy the expensive large cars and shun the small cars. If we had gas prices in the $6\gal range for 15 years - we would have a TON of small cars to choose from - but till then - the small car market will come and go and the good stuff will go to Europe.
--
Brian

"It drops into your stomach like a Abrams's tank.... driven by Rosanne Barr..." A. Bourdain]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621758 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 10:13:56 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621683
Now Britain is a VERY small market and super competitive. Cars are very expensive to buy and run. There's no way they couldn't sell those here but the entire Focus line here is terrible from transmission engine choices to trim.

Same deal with Audi- they have the A1 for instance but not here- A3 is the closest and a very nice car.

There's something going on which I don't understand. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621683 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 09:52:24 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621241 said by Gbcue:

See, just one car.

My 2007 Dodge (a favorite of this forum) Caliber R/T has:

Blue Tooth
Voice Recognition System
Heated Leather
Built-in AC Inverter
Front and Side Curtain Airbags
Auto-tint Rear View Mirror
Re-chargeable Flashlight at Rear Dome Light
Glove Compartment Cooling System (Chill Zone)
Traction Control and ABS
Sun/Moon Roof
Auto Climate Control
Nine Speaker Boston Audio System (6 disc changer, Cassette, Satellite)
Sport Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
18" Alloy Rims

Back-up cameras, HIDs, LED tail lights, push button start and integrated navigation are unnecessary features that cost a lot of money.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25621241 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 07:41:52 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25620610 said by Gbcue:

See, just one car.

I only looked at 2 sites, Ford and Mazda. The top of the line Focus lacks the lights but has everything else (with "leather trimmed" seats) as well. You could probably find something close to your liking at Subaru as well.

I'm a bit more confused as we go. First you want "reasonably-priced hatchbacks and wagons" but now are mentioning luxury brands and amenities. I asked for an example from overseas and didn't get any.

I think the reality is that most car makers see the typical "small" hatch or wagon to be the provision of those starting out in life and as such provide limited amenities suited to that kind of budget. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25620610 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:04:41 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25620564 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25620564 Wed, 16 Mar 2011 23:51:15 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25615242 said by Gbcue:

And then it's German, don't really know reliability on those.

"High end" amenities:
HIDs
Leather
Bluetooth
LED tail lights
Sun/moon roof
Backup camera
Push button start
Heated/cooled seats
Automatic climate control
Maybe navigation?

things like that, you'd find in a "luxury" car.

It's not all about high fuel economy, but I just want to drive a huge car nor a small car that has nothing in it.

And where do you see an OEM car like this overseas?

Germans make cars as or more reliable to Japanese, the big worries used to be VWs made in mexico, not sure if that's true anymore.

Hmm, the Mazda3 Grand Touring has all of those "amenities" although the seats are "Leather trimmed" instead of full leather.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25615242 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 23:03:29 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25611499
"High end" amenities:
HIDs
Leather
Bluetooth
LED tail lights
Sun/moon roof
Backup camera
Push button start
Heated/cooled seats
Automatic climate control
Maybe navigation?

things like that, you'd find in a "luxury" car.

It's not all about high fuel economy, but I just want to drive a huge car nor a small car that has nothing in it.
--
My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25611499 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 10:26:15 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25611090 said by Gbcue:

The amenities in those sub-$20k hatches aren't great, then if you go up in price, such as to Acura, Lexus, or Infiniti, there are nothing but big bloated vehicles.

Acura, Lexus and Infiniti are all luxury brands though so they will continue to make big bloated vehicles because their target market can afford the gas even at $5 a gallon.

If you want to look at "luxury" cars then check out some of the Mini line which is essentially a BMW.

What amenities are you looking for that you find missing on those cars?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25611090 Tue, 15 Mar 2011 08:32:56 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610181 said by cmaenginsb1:

said by Gbcue:

said by Irun Man:

Yesterdays hatchbacks and wagons are todays crossovers and SUVs.

I hate to say it BUT welcome to the 21st century.

Well, it looks like its going back to hatches and wagons..

Citation needed. ;) Again if you look almost every non-luxury manufacturer has a hatch or wagon for under or near $20k. All of these get near 30 Mpg highway as well.

The amenities in those sub-$20k hatches aren't great, then if you go up in price, such as to Acura, Lexus, or Infiniti, there are nothing but big bloated vehicles.
--
My Blog 2.2]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610181 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 23:46:39 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610116 said by Gbcue:

said by Irun Man:

Yesterdays hatchbacks and wagons are todays crossovers and SUVs.

I hate to say it BUT welcome to the 21st century.

Well, it looks like its going back to hatches and wagons..

Citation needed. ;) Again if you look almost every non-luxury manufacturer has a hatch or wagon for under or near $20k. All of these get near 30 Mpg highway as well.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610116 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 23:32:12 EDT Re: Autos in the US http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610099 said by Gbcue:

Why aren't there more reasonably-priced hatchbacks and wagons?

I guess as fuel prices climb, more manufacturers will start importing them?

What size are you looking at and what do you consider reasonably priced? Ford has 2 models of its 5 model lineup with hatchback options, all start below $19k.

Not sure what you mean by "start" importing them as Subaru has offerred hatchback versions of it's Impreza line since before 2003 and Toyota has offered the Matrix since before that as well.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Autos-in-the-US-25610099 Mon, 14 Mar 2011 23:29:20 EDT