Nissan Versa EV Prototype

Just an uber-quick post: Check out this story from Autoblog on a Nissan Versa EV prototype. Pretty neat little thing. And yet again, we see the black-and-white EV motif from Nissan.

The link above has more pics and more info!

Fiesta Coupe ... or ...Return of the Ford Puma

Auto Express is reporting that the UK's much loved Ford Puma is set to return. The small couple, which went away in 2001, will allegedly return riding on the new Ford Fiesta chassis.

The U.S. market seems to still prefer coupes over hatchbacks. I wonder if this will hit U.S. shores?

LINK
Ford's baby cat is getting ready to pounce (Auto Express)

Driving cross country in a subcompact

Hello from the middle of nowhere Wyoming! (I have no I idea where this was.)

This is the second time I've driven halfway across the country in a subcompact (the first time was in my '05 xB three years ago). This time, it was in our 2009 SX4 AWD (manual trans). We averaged between 27 and 30 mpg driving the Interstate from Portland, OR to Hudson, WI. Keep in mind, most of the posted speed limits were 75, and we drove a tad over that; we had the air conditioning on 90% of the time; and we were fully loaded with stuff. I'm pretty happy with that.

The SX4's small bladder fuel tank made itself abundantly clear. We had to refuel about every 220-250 miles, with the best tank being 256 miles. The good thing about having to make such frequent stops is it helps to keep us awake and lets us use the "facilities" more often.

I will say, after driving 1,885 miles, I will say I do wish we had opted for cruise control, although we use it so infrequently when in Oregon, it still wasn't worth the cash for us.

More updates from the Midwest later!

Should Suzuki pack up and leave the U.S.? I say no.

There's been a lot of talk about American Suzuki possibly packing up and leaving. There has been the analyst reports, the 78% drop in sales for June, and a closing of many dealerships nation wide. So what's up?

USA Today reports that Suzuki was hit hard during the sub-prime lending debacle. Certainly most automakers were, especially those selling less expensive vehicles. Then there's the influx of Korean-built, rebadged Daewoo products (Reno, Forenza) that surely weren't top-notch Suzuki products. However, since they are no longer being sold, they have to account for part of that 78% decline in sales compared to June of 2008. On top of that, the XL-7 is being discontinued. That leaves American Suzuki with only a few models to sell:

- SX4 Crossover
- SX4 Sport (sedan)
- Grand Vitara
- Equator (aka Nissan Frontier pickup)

... I'd say of the current lineup, it's a very smart thing to do to pin your hopes on the SX4. The company is slated to release the Kizashi sedan to do battle against the tightly packed mid-sized sedan crowd, which includes the likes of behemoths such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, let alone the Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonota, Kia Optima, Subaru Legacy, Volkswagen Passat, and probably a few others. Suzuki will definitely have to score big with the Kizashi.

Enough of this stuff, though. Here's what my lowly blogger, automotive junky enthusiast opinion is.

Bring over Suzuki's specialty: Small cars
Suzuki is known worldwide for being an outstanding manufacturer of small cars. That's what American Suzuki started out with, and I think that's what they need to go back to. The market is primed for b-segment, subcompact vehicles in the U.S. MINI, Yaris, xD, Fit, Accent, Versa, Cube, Rio, Fiesta, and others are either out or soon to come to the market. Suzuki specializes in vehicles of this size! The SX4 is a step in the right direction, and does ride on a stretched Swift platform. So now seems like prime time to bring the Swift. However, my brief e-mail exchange with American Suzuki PR did not confirm any timetable for the Swift. They only said the Kizashi was the focus of internal discussion.

Step up the marketing
Suzuki needs to step up the marketing, too. The "Mightier than the MINI" campaign drew attention, if not possibly the wrong kind. Many people are saying, "Who cross shops an SX4 and a MINI," and, "You can't even compare a MINI to an SX4." Hey, at least people are talking. I know advertising costs money, but can American Suzuki afford not to step it up?

Create an image; build the brand
The 800+ horespower Suzuki SX4 driven by Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima just won the entire Pikes Peak International Hillclimb for the fourth year in a row. Where's all the PR about that? This could be the image vehicle that Suzuki needs.

Suzuki needs to brand itself better, too. Sure, they're well known for their motorcycles. However, a lot of Americans still think "Samurai" when they think Suzuki. Hone in on a theme, and work it. Think Volkswagen. Think MINI. Think Scion (well, early Scion).

Now, I'm the first to readmit that I am not an auto-industry analyst, and that I'm on the outside looking in. However, I know that Suzuki is capable of having a lineup as strong as the SX4 across the board. Suzuki is setting sales records in other parts of the world (+25% in India, +42% in France, +20% in Poland, etc.). However, it can't seem to get a foothold (toehold?) in the U.S.

Perhaps it's time for a new game plan in the U.S. Then again, perhaps Suzuki is already several steps ahead of us in planning. I certainly hope so. I love my SX4 and would love to add a Swift to my stable, too.

American Suzuki has been in the States since the mid '80s, and I'd hate to see it go away, especially with products as strong as the SX4, and the Swift. Perhaps Suzuki will be able to capitalize on the Kizashi, and will perhaps bring the Swift over that so many enthusiasts are asking for. I think there is a life for American Suzuki autos in the U.S.; I don't think it will be easy, necessarily. However, at this point, I'd think the small-car route would be worth a try.

The 2010 Ford Model Year Drive Event: Experiencing the latest from Ford Motor Company

Yesterday, I attended the 2010 Ford Model Year Drive Event at the company's headquarters in Dearborn, MI. At this event, I was able to drive many of the 2010 model-year vehicles, learn about the company's latest technologies, and see what the company is aiming for in the future. And although the event had a strong emphasis on the 2010 Taurus, it was said that many of the new technologies found in Ford's larger vehicles would be spread to all of the Ford offerings in the future.

The day started out with a short bus ride to the company's test track. On the way in, there were a variety of vehicles zooming around the high-banked track—including a couple of camouflaged Ford Fiesta sedan test mules. Perhaps endurance testing?

After our arrival at the Product Review Center (a LEED Silver certified building), we were greeted by several of Ford's execs who talked about the direction of the company with regards to new models, model changes, powertrain changes, and quality standards. As a fan of small cars, it was reassuring to hear that Ford has a commitment to large, medium, and small cars for the U.S. market. An emphasis was placed on the "freshening" of the model lineup, too. Ford acknowledged that it "takes time to reconvince customers" of their brand, but was confident in the direction in which the company is headed. After the short presentations, we broke up into four groups to begin the activities. First stop for my group: The steering and handling course.

Steering and Handling Course
The "steering and handling evaluation track" was the first of two Ford test tracks I would get to experience. This was a tight course with several elevation changes. I didn't have a chance to drive the Fiesta again, which was okay since I'd already done so. However, I was interested in the new-to-the-U.S. Transit Connect, and was able to ride in one.

Already on sale in Europe for some time, the Transit Connect is a smaller vehicle aimed at the commercial segment. About the length of a Ford Focus, but taller, the Transit Connect (which is launching as we speak ... er type), offers scads of usable interior space in a small package. It's perfect for the person/business that needs a vehicle smaller than a Dodge Sprinter or a pickup truck, but bigger than a typical hatchback. A full write up on the vehicle will be up shortly.

I also got a ride in a battery-electric Ford Focus. That's right—an all-electric Focus. It was just like any other Focus on the inside, although the gauges were different. This vehicle was said to have a range of 70-100 miles on a charge. It was, of course, whisper quiet, too.

I was able to drive a few versions of Ford's larger cars including the Fusion Hybrid, the Fusion Sport, the Ford Edge Sport, and the Mercury Milan. The Fusions are very nice vehicles, indeed, and I was thrilled to see Ford offering the four-cylinder Fusion with a manual transmission option. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to drive the Shelby GT500; but it sure sounded amazing.

Technology Tent
Next stop: The Technology Tent. Here, Ford showcased some of its latest innovations, including its latest voice-activated SYNC with traffic, directions, and information; Adaptive Park Assist (e.g. the car parks itself); Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning systems; and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).

Although these technologies were showcased on the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, the Fusion, and a few Lincoln vehicles, many of these features will eventually be available on Ford's smaller cars, such as the Fiesta and the Focus.

I was most impressed with the Collision Warning system, which uses a sophisticated radar in the bumpers to detect if a vehicle is getting too close for comfort. A series of tones and LEDs on the dashboard, which look similar to a third brake light (see image at right) notifies drivers of an upcoming obstacle ... like a car you're hoping NOT to hit. However, unlike its cousin, Volvo, the Ford products won't automatically apply the brakes. It's a technology Ford said its customers may not be ready to embrace yet. The crash-sensing radar monitors up to 600 ft. in front of the vehicle; it's pretty cool technology that Ford said might even be required on all cars in the future.

Next it was time for lunch with everyone, including some Ford execs. Even Ford CEO Alan Mulally stopped in (at left). It was interesting to talk with some of the Ford executives, as well as other media folk to get their take on what they'd seen during the first half of the day. Next stop: The EcoBoost Challenge.

EcoBoost Challenge
The EcoBoost Challenge pitted several competing vehicles from other manufacturers against EcoBoost-equipped Fords. EcoBoost is what Ford is calling its newest engine family. The theory behind the EcoBoost is smaller displacement, turbo-charged powerplants that deliver better fuel economy and performance than larger, normally aspirated engines, while spewing fewer emissions. For example, the first offering, a 3.5-liter, direct-injection, twin-turbo V-6, will be offered in vehicles such as the new (and, IMHO, very attractive) Ford Tarus SHO, the Flex, and some Lincoln models. It's designed to produce V-8 power, too (ala 365hp in the SHO). So what's this have to do with small cars? We'll have to see.

Ford did announce a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine (single turbo), most likely for the Fusion (possibly a hot Focus setup?). Officially, I couldn't get much info about a Fiesta with a small EcoBoost engine. Since the Fiesta hasn't launched yet, Ford was pretty hush-hush about engine options. However, a Ford representative did say that an EcoBoost-powered Fiesta was "more than just a rumor."

I did get to drive Ford Flex with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and it did indeed scoot. (The seven-passenger Flex could be one of the best road-trip vehicles out there, by the way). I rode in an EcoBoost Taurus SHO, and it was damn quick. I drove a 2010 Mustang GT on the track, and I'm not going to lie: It was awesome and I want one. (I love lots of different cars, and love the sound of a lot of cars, but few cars sound as good to me as the Mustang GT!) Driving on the high-banked test track was a real trip. Entering the track was like playing Gran Turismo!

Quality and Powertrain
Last stop on the event was the quality and powertrain tent. Here, Ford discussed its latest push to produce a top-quality products. There were several experts in their fields, including automotive interior design, and component sound quality. Excuse me—"component sound quality?" Indeed, there is a person who specializes in things such as the sound the door makes when it closes. The sound of the warning chimes. The noise the shifter makes when moved. I found this fascinating, especially since I thought I was the only person who noticed the sound of a manual transmission's shifter. (I love the sound of my Suzuki SX4's shifter. I do not love the Kia Rio 5's.)

On the powertrain side of things, there was a lot of talk about the EcoBoost engines. Here Ford said the 2.0-liter EcoBoost four cylinder would produce 230 hp and 240 ft./lbs. of torque (yes please). As previously mentioned: No official word on an EcoBoost-powered Fiesta at this time.

There was also a lot of discussion regarding hybrids. Interesting fact: Ford currently offers the highest top speed in electric mode of any gasoline-electric vehicle at 47 mph. Additionally, Ford said it will have four electrified vehicles by 2012, including a Transit Connect battery-electric, the Focus battery-electric, a plug-in hybrid, and another vehicle. Maybe a hybrid Fiesta?

Overall, the experience was very cool. Lots of neat people, lots of cool technology, and a look into the future at Ford. The company definitely appears to be heading in the right direction with regards to its product offerings, quality control, technology, and environmental concerns. As you're probably aware, I am very much looking forward to the official launch of the 2011 Fiesta in about a year, and anticipate some of the company's latest technology trickling down to its small car offerings.

Race-prepped Suzuki SX4 takes top time at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

For the fourth year in a row, Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima" has won the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. With nearly 900hp on tap, Monster and his race-prepped Suzuki SX4 set a time of 10:15.368, just shy of another record.

Other subcompacts of note were the Ford Fiesta Rally team. Marcus Gronholm, in his 2011 Fiesta Rally car, finished the course with a time of 11:28.963.

LINK
Monster-Sport.com

Magnificent microfiber cloths

I've always enjoyed washing, waxing, and detailing my cars. One of the more helpful products I've come across in recent memory are those ubiquitous yellow microfiber cloths from Costco. Sold in packs of 4,000 36, these cloths are great for a variety of auto-related tasks. I use them for nearly everything from waxing the paint and cleaning my wheels, to wiping down the interior and detailing the engine bay. They're washable, soft, and about $15.

VIDEO: Toyota iQ font, created by the Toyota iQ

iQ font - When driving becomes writing / Full making of from wireless on Vimeo.

This is a pretty cool video of a bunch of people actually creating a font using the Toyota iQ. The more I see this little vehicle, the more I like it.

VIDEO: 800-hp Ford Fiesta Rally Car

Oh the sound of a high-horsepower rally car ...

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is this weekend, and Ford is campaigning its new Fiesta Rally car. You can check out additional photos and a press release regarding the vehicle at Autoblog.com.

What was the most fuel efficient subcompact sold in the U.S.?

The EPA has been keeping an official record of fuel economy for cars sold in the U.S. since 1975. There have been a lot of different makes and models sold since then. With all the talk of hybrids, diesels, and alternative energy vehicles, I started to wonder what the most fuel-efficient subcompact was?

A Google search yielded an article by Popular Mechanics about the top fuel sippers over the last 34 years. The list goes like this:

1. '00 Honda Insight: 49/61
2. '86-'88 Chevrolet Sprint: 44/53
3. '90 Geo Metro XFI: 43/51
4. '86-'87 Honda Civic HF: 42/51
5. '82 Volkswagen Rabbit Diesel: 34/40

Some that were not on the list:

1981 Toyota Starlet: 38/52
1985 Ford Escort Diesel: 36/46

I'm sure there are others I've overlooked. Feel free to add to the list in the comments section.

LINKS
FuelEconomy.gov
Popular Mechanics

Subcompacts at the Portland Historic Races

Last weekend I went to the annual Portland Historic Races, which showcase a plethora of vintage race cars. From big, V-8 powered Corvettes to small-displacement British sports cars.

Some of my favs were there including the Ford/Lotus Cortina; the Austin Healey Sprite; and even a Fiat 500! Most of the photos below were from the various car clubs in attendance, but a couple were track vehicles. Check out some of the pics below.

Kia Soul in Police Outfit to Patrol Sussex Streets

Yes, that's right: A Kia Soul police vehicle. Be sure to check out the link below for the whole story on CarScoop.

Kia Soul in Police Outfit to Patrol Sussex Streets

Shared via AddThis

Tata Nano passes European crash test

Well whaddya know? The lil' Tata Nano has passed the European impact testing according to a story on AUTOCAR.co.uk. And although the Nano is only being sold in India at the moment, this ability to pass a strict impact test may open the gates for the car to be sold in Europe and possibly the U.S., too.

LINKS
Tata Nano Crash Test Photos (AUTOCAR)
Tata Nano Crash Test Video (AUTOCAR)

Fiat Panda Adventure: A Jeep in Italian clothing?

People have been speculating about the Fiat Panda coming to the U.S. as a Jeep since the announcement that Fiat was buying Chrysler. Fiat recently announced the Panda Adventure 4x4, which continues the vehicle's rugged heritage. It's got an automatic 4x4 system, small dimensions, and a fuel-efficient engine. Could this be bound for the U.S. as a Jeep? I certainly hope so.

LINK
Fiat Panda 4x4 Adventure: a fearless new off-roader (DueMotori.com)

Daihatsu Midget II, other Kei vehicles spotted in Oregon

Anyone that's played the Gran Turismo video games is probably familiar with the Daihatsu Midget. This little Kei vehicle from Japan looks sort of like the love child of a phone booth and a go-kart. It's front-mounted spare makes this vehicle easily recognized ... even in Forest Grove Oregon?

While driving along Highway 8, I ran a across a couple of Japanese Kei vehicles for sale that were "for off-road use only." There were two 4WD Daihatsus, the 1996 Midget II, and a 4WD Suzuki Carry. There was no price on the Midget; a few of the other 4WD vehicles were about $7,000.

Some people are using these 4WD Kei vehicles as mini off-roaders. I think the Carry would be a ton of fun in the dunes ... with the right tires and a lift.

EDIT: Just found out these vehicles are being sold through Cape-Ape Imports, LLC.

Honda Fit Hybrid, CR-Z will appear in 2010

Honda is confirming that the Fit Hybrid and the Honda CR-Z hybrid will indeed appear in late 2010, according to a press release sent out today. We're all pretty familiar with the Fit; the CR-Z is supposed to be a smaller, sporty hybrid. Think CRX but bigger, heavier, and with a battery. However, it'll be great if Honda can make it sporty, fuel-efficient, and affordable.

Full release below:

Honda to Begin Sales of Two More Hybrid Models in 2010

TOKYO, Japan, July 13, 2009 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced plans to begin sales in Japan of the CR-Z sporty hybrid model in February 2010 and Fit Hybrid before the end of 2010. By combining these two models with the currently available Insight and Civic Hybrid, Honda will further enhance its lineup of compact hybrid models, which leverage the unique characteristics of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA), including compact size, lightweight and high efficiency. In addition, Honda is currently developing a new hybrid system which is intended to be installed on mid- to large-size vehicles.

Honda also announced that, in addition to the No. 1 line at its Suzuka Factory, the production of Insight also began on Suzuka's No. 3 line in mid-June 2009, leveraging Honda's flexible production system.

In order to continue contributing to the global effort to reduce CO2 emissions, Honda will continue to focus on research and development of technologies which improve fuel-efficiency and strive to deliver products with improved environmental performance to as many customers as possible by making such products more accessible to all people.

The CR-Z concept vehicle made its world debut at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007. The CR-Z sporty hybrid will feature advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle's environmental footprint.

Picnic in the back of the Yaris

For my recent birthday, my wife and I went to Eugene, OR to sample some of the city's breweries, specifically Ninkasi Brewery and Steelhead Brewery. To safe some dough, we brought our own lunch. After sampling some beer, we decided to simply eat where we were. No picnic benches ... no problem. Just fold the Yaris' rear seats down flat, fold over the little panels that cover the gap, and eat. Not too bad! Now, I don't know if I'd want to sleep back there, but for a quick lunch that's out of the shade, the Yaris makes a pretty good picnic spot. And hey—who doesn't like pretzels?

Scion announces 2010 xD pricing, new features

Scion has announced pricing of the 2010 xD, which now comes standard with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). The base price of an xD will go up $150 to $14,800—and you get a lot for your money.

In addition to VSC, the '10 xD will also get an all-new Pioneer audio system. With AM/FM/CD/USB 160-watt maximum, the new gear also gets an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, iPod^®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output.

Audiophiles looking for upgraded factory soundgear may want to check out the optional Alpine system, which has the same amenities as the Pioneer system, but adds a 4.3" color touch panel thin-film-transistor (TFT) screen, HD Radio™ technology, Media Expander (MX) and both front and rear RCA outputs.

I've always liked the xD, and although sales have been down sharply from last year, people who do opt for the smallest Scion get plenty of bang for the buck.

Full press release below:

Scion Announces Pricing for 2010 xD That Receives New Audio System, Vehicle Stability Control Standard

Torrance, CA – July 8, 2010 – Scion today announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2010 xD five-door urban subcompact. The xD rolls into its third model year with new standard and optional audio systems and also gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

The enhancements to the 2010 xD come with a modest MSRP increase of $150. The base MSRP for the xD is $14,800 when equipped with a manual transmission and $15,600 with an automatic transmission.

New and Upgraded Audio System

The xD’s new standard AM/FM/CD/USB 160-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system receives additional functionality for 2010. New features include an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen, iPod®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. The standard Pioneer system has a USB port and universal auxiliary (AUX) port located on the center console that allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the xD’s six Pioneer speakers.

Connectivity is achieved by simply plugging the portable music player, including iPod® and iPhone®, into the USB or AUX port. The head unit’s screen displays track number, track name and artist information from select USB units. The audio system provides outstanding sound quality through the car’s stereo system and constant power to select iPods. Music is controlled through the head unit and the steering wheel audio control buttons for radio, CD and certain USB devices; iPod® users can also use an alphabetical speed search to find a specific artist or album.

The ASR function restores a wide, deep and rich quality to MP3/WMA/AAC sound. Through the subwoofer RCA output, xD owners can add an external amplifier to drive one or more subwoofers. For easy operation, the system’s multi selector allows for easy control of the head unit. Unique to the standard Pioneer audio system is the customizable welcome screen that also lets users create a personal message of up to 16 characters.

The optional Alpine Premium audio system has the same basic features as the standard Pioneer audio system, but it adds a 4.3-inch color touch panel thin-film-transistor (TFT) screen, HD Radio™ technology, Media Expander (MX) and both front and rear RCA outputs. Passengers can listen to HD Radio™ broadcasting with the premium audio system and view text, song titles, album and artist name on the head unit. Alpine’s MX technology improves the compressed audio sound often found on digital music. The RCA outputs allow for up to three amplifiers -- front, rear and subwoofer. The optional audio system is also back-up camera and navigation ready.

Scion also offers an optional plug-in navigation unit for the Alpine Premium audio system. Navigation and audio functions utilize the head-unit screen for display. Features include voice guidance; day and night screen modes; support in English, French and Spanish; 200 available address book entries; map coverage across the U.S. and Canada including Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Hawaii; three map views (3-D, north up, and heading up); and more than six million points of interest. Users can also program up to three destinations before arriving at their final programmed stop. Scion makes this navigation unit customizable by allowing the user to change the vehicle position icon from an arrow to an icon of the xD, which can be customized in every xD exterior color.

Both the standard and premium head units retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing (SSP) where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3, AAC and WMA capability. In addition, both units adjust the volume control based on driving speed. The sound systems feature six speakers: a tweeter and a speaker in each front door panel, plus two full-range speakers in the rear.

Aggressive Styling

The xD’s distinct exterior is characterized by aggressive styling— a wide stance, thick muscular body, a long and narrow back window, accentuated wheel flares, an integrated rectangular lower and upper grille, and horizontal headlamps. The xD also features side mirrors with integrated turn signals. The xD rolls on 16-inch steel wheels and 195/60 R16 tires. Customers can choose from three standard wheel covers, which are also shared with the xB.

Fun-To-Drive

The xD’s 1.8-L four-cylinder engine with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) generates 128 horsepower. This engine features a roller-rocker system and lightweight pistons for better fuel economy, and a piston-cooling oil jet for better efficiency. Customers have the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

The xD sits on a short, wide frame for a pleasing ride. To help enhance control, the xD features an L-arm type MacPherson strut in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear. The xD stops with front-ventilated disc and rear-drum brakes.

Interior Details

The instrument panel features indicator lamps, an LCD fuel gauge, odometer and a unique, radar-like speedometer and tachometer. The digital clock, and HVAC and audio controls flow down the center console.

Storage and cargo space is plentiful with the xD. The driver has easy access to a change box and storage tray located beneath the steering wheel. The xD also has a small box in the front of the center console for holding portable music players or cell phones, an upper and lower glove box, and a hidden storage space located below the rear-cargo area. The xD also features 60/40 fold flat rear seats for a level cargo space.

For versatility, leg room and added cargo space, the rear seats can slide forward and back up to six inches. The rear seats also can recline ten degrees and be adjusted into five different positions for additional comfort.

Mono-spec Features

Like all Scion vehicles the xD comes mono-spec with a surprising array of standard features. Customers only need to choose exterior color and transmission type. The xD’s standard features include power steering, windows, door locks and mirrors; remote keyless entry; air conditioning; four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC); a tire pressure monitor system; driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags; front-seat-mounted side airbags; front and rear side-curtain airbags; cruise control; first-aid kit; and tilt steering wheel with audio controls.

All Scion models come with complimentary factory-recommended maintenance services at the first 5,000 mile and 10,000 mile intervals, to be performed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealership.

Color Availability

The xD is available in seven exterior colors, Super White, Silver Streak Mica, Black Sand Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic, Nautical Blue Metallic and the all-new Black Currant Metallic. The interior features a high-quality dark charcoal fabric.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

LINKS
Scion.com
Scionlife.com

Tachometer increases fuel economy

In late May, I added a tachometer to my 2007 Yaris. I figured it'd be a good addition to the vehicle for autocross, and just an overall good thing to have. However, I didn't expect one side effect: Increased mileage.

No, my tachometer isn't giving me the mileage increase per se, but having it has changed the way I've driven, at least over the last three tanks of gas.

Since installing the tach, I've gone from getting about 32-33 mpg to 36-39 mpg.

So what's going on? I'm more aware of my engine speed. No longer am I going by the sound of the engine and using the speedometer to determine when to shift. Now I'm able to see the true engine speed, and I find myself shifting earlier and driving in a higher gear to conserve fuel. Thus far it's worked pretty well. I was able to achieve 345 miles on my last tank—the most in nearly two years of ownership—and I got 39 mpg doing so.

There's a more fun side to the tach, too. I know exactly where my redline is, which is great for passing on two-lane roads. I know how much juice I still have left if I need to "punch it." No bumping into the rev limiter.

Most cars come with tachometers nowadays, the Yaris is an exception (unless you get the sedan or buy the S model). Adding the tach is almost like rediscovering how to drive the car.

Yaris Beach Patrol

This is simply a lesson in bad decision making.

I don't know what the hell I was thinking. I've driven on the beach in our AWD Suzuki SX4 many times. I've driven the dunes in 4x4s on multiple occasions. I knew better.

Regardless of past experiences, I still decided to attempt to navigate the beach in my lowered Yaris. However, after driving about 20 feet from the beach entrance, my lowered FWD Yaris on high-performance tires became mired in the sand. Gee ... who would've thought? Now, I've worked in the off-road industry for about three years. I've pulled people out of the sand before with a winch. Yet, I still made the nonsensical decision to attempt to pilot my vehicle onto the sand. Again: A lesson in bad decision making.

Luckily for me, a guy named Tyler just happened to be driving onto the beach in a 4x4 Isuzu Rodeo, and also just happened to have a tow strap. A gentle tug dragged my Yaris back up to the entrance. No blood, no foul. The Yaris was fine. I, however, felt like a dumbass—as I should have. Next time I'll be sure to have the SX4.

Cool Web Site: BeanGarage.com

If you're looking for a place that carries subcompact-specific parts for your Nissan Cube or Versa; Toyota Yaris; Scion xB, xA; Honda Fit; or others, check out Bean Garage. They have a bunch of parts for these vehicles and others.

In addition, they also have the Bean Yourself blog, too. Lots of cool car photos and neat postings, too.

Be sure to check it out!

LINKS
BeanGarage.com
Bean Yourself blog

Big in Japan: Honda Fit is the top seller in Japan for the first half of 2009

Honda's Fit has taken the top sales prize in Japan for the first half of 2009 by selling 65,589 units. The second-place finisher was the Suzuki Alto.

LINK
Honda Automotive News

Scion iQ convertible?

As you probably know, the Toyota iQ microcar is headed to the U.S. as a Scion. Now, Motor Trend has found this rendering in a Japanese car magazine. It looks to be an artist's interpretation of what the iQ convertible might look like. There has been talk of other vehicles based on the iQ's platform, so this might not be too far off. I'm sure the ginormous wheels and aggressive body panels would get lost (might get lost?), but it looks pretty cool to me.

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Scion Drop Top (Motor Trend)