Joe asks Jody Victor®: More Great Commuter Cars

Well, if that last bunch didn’t trip your trigger, try this next lineup. Here’s our own Jody Victor with more info from the article by Evan Griffey of msn.com.

Jody Victor: Hey Joe, I know that last group was great but, here goes with the rest of the great commuter vehicles.

Kia Sportage - Price: $18,500 – The Sportage fills the commuting needs of SUV fans. You get that high-and-mighty seating position, plenty of room and a slew of standard amenities in a stylish package. It costs $3,800 to add all-wheel drive to the equation, but we’d recommend it if you regularly face bad weather. The Kia is a great call when you need a double-duty vehicle that can both commute and support an active lifestyle outside the office. Fuel efficiency: 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway.

Scion iQ - Price: $15,995 – There are all kinds of engineering tricks that explain how the iQ looks small on the outside, yet is relatively big inside. But that’s not why it appeals to us in this context; the asymmetrical dash and staggered seating are the standouts here. This arrangement, in which the front passenger sits farther forward in the cabin than the driver, gives three commuters regular, no-compromise room. The iQ’s impressive 37 mpg combined city and highway mileage is the best among the strictly gas-burners on this list.

Subaru Legacy - Price: $19,995 – The Legacy is the all-wheel-drive alternative on the list. As part of its 2009 redesign, Subaru’s midsized sedan got a more expansive, ergonomic interior that makes better use of the space. It is offered in seven model trims with three engine choices and numerous interior and connectivity features, so there is a flavor for every palate. The base 2.5i trim features a 170-horsepower engine and continuously variable transmission and generates the best mileage figures: 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway.

Toyota Prius V - Price: $26,400 – There is a lot to like in the versatile all-new-for-2012 Prius V. The traditional gas-electric hybrid has more of a minivan profile than other Prius offerings. Its bigger packaging means more room for the commute and more cargo potential for weekend getaways, all while enjoying hybrid-spec fuel efficiency at 44 mpg city/42 mpg highway. The Prius V comes in three trims; only the top trim offers access to the commuter-friendly, high-end technology option packages.

VW Jetta Diesel - Price: $22,525 – Diesels have been known for their high-mileage figures for decades; this one gets 30 mpg city/42 mpg highway. But many still perceive them as being loud, smoky and crude. Get a clue: Modern diesels are quiet and clean-burning and offer a refined ride and drive. They make an excellent commuter car. Diesels produce big torque; the Jetta’s 236 lb-ft of torque doubles that of the first four cars on our list, giving it more pep from a stoplight. VW’s 2.0-liter TDI drivetrain can be had in sedan or SportWagen versions of the Jetta, making it more flexible for post-commute activities.

Thanks, Jody! We’ll be sure to check ‘em out.

Joe Victor

Joe asks Jody Victor®: 10 Great Commuter Cars

I’m sure you are interested in anything that could make that morning commute any easier or more economical. I asked Jody Victor to tell us about the best vehicles to do just that from and article by Evan Griffey of msn.com.

Jody Victor: Hey Joe, I don’thave to make that commute anymore but I certainly remember the frustrations. Here’s the first half of the article.

Chevrolet Volt – Price: $39,145 – The Volt is not a hybrid, but we understand why people think it is one. A conventional hybrid is a gasoline-powered machine that gets a boost from an electric motor to improve fuel economy. The Volt is an electric car with a gasoline assist. The gas-powered component isn’t part of the drivetrain at all, but rather acts as a generator, recharging the Volt’s batteries when necessary. The Volt can drive about 35 miles on an electric charge before the 83-horsepower gasoline engine kicks in. This configuration allows the Volt to roam as far as any other car on the road, something no other electric vehicle can claim. Plus, it is roomy and has all of the right amenities.

Fiat 500 - Price: $15,500 – The tiniest roller skate on our list, the Fiat 500, adds a little Italian flair to the morning drive. There are three regular trims — Pop, Sport and Lounge — two convertible offerings and two limited-edition 500s. The all-conquering turbocharged Abarth performance model will hit the scene in 2012. The 500 is only new to America; it has been a success overseas and won World Car Design of the Year honors in 2009. Nimble and chic, the 500 has all the attributes to please even the most image-conscious commuters. It gets 30 mpg city/38 mpg on the highway. Sure, it’s a little tight, but it offers plenty of style and comfort for a sole commuter.

Ford Fiesta SE - Price: $15,670 – The under-$14,000 Fiesta S is a miserly sedan that’s perfect for those who commute alone. But we chose the SE hatchback instead, because it is just as miserly — with a fuel-economy rating of 29 mpg city/39 mpg highway — and it better serves commuter and cargo needs. No matter which one you choose, however, you’ll own one of the best-connected rides on the road. Ford’s Sync system enables hands-free calling and texting when paired with your smartphone, and with Sync AppLink you can also access a nearly limitless amount of music via Pandora and other media outlets. And if you’re car pooling, you can use it as a wireless hub, so passengers can get a jump on the day while you chauffeur them to work.

Honda Odyssey - Price: $28,225 – The Honda Odyssey is not your typical go-to player in the commuter realm. It’s the people mover for larger car pools and can also serve as a family truckster for long-haul road trips. It’s pricey for a commuter, too, and the only V6 among these 4-cylinder fuel-sippers. But the van has plenty of space, and advantages such as seating for up to eight and an available rear-seat DVD system. And it’s efficient for its size: 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway.

Hyundai Veloster - Price: $17,300 – The Veloster is a new 2012 model. It looks more like a Honda CR-Z than a traditional hatchback. But we like the 2-door coupe’s style and the convenience of a stealthy third door that Hyundai added to ease rear-seat access. The Veloster is also well-equipped, featuring a lot of high-tech connectivity. However, we recommend anyone commuting with more than two people to test drive the rear seat of this vehicle carefully; the slope of the rear window may be a problem for passengers taller than 6 feet. Fuel efficiency is good, with a rating of 28 mpg city/40 mpg highway.

Thanks, Jody! More commuter vehicles next time.

Joe Victor

Joe asks Jody Victor®: 2012 Deals of Christmas II

If you have some Christmas money burning a hole in your pocket, there may be a vehicle in your immediate future. I asked Jody Victor to tell us more about it from an article by Jamie Page Deaton of U.S. News & World Report on msn.com.

Jody Victor: Hey Joe, there are car deals out there now, that can fit almost anyone’s budget. Here’s the second instalment.

2012 BMW 1-Series – How does Santa make it to all those houses in one night? We don’t know, but his job would probably be a whole lot easer if he had a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder ingine that made 300 horsepower, like the 2012 BMW 135 does. With a lease deal that makes payments just $419 per month, Santa could deliver toys in record time and have plenty of cash left over for giving elves their bonuses.

2012 Hyundai Sonata – Giving a gift always feels better when it looks like you spent more than you did. Most car reviewers say the 2012 Hyundai Sonata looks and feels more expensive than it is. That feeling is even more powerful through Jan. 3, when the 2012 Sonata is available for purchase with 1.9% financing for 36 months, or for lease for $259 per month for 36 months.

2012 Honda Odyssey – Going over the river and through the woods can actually be fun in the comfortable and feature-laden 2012 Honda Odyssey. With comfortable seating for up to seven and some of the best performance in the minivan class, the Odyssey is a no-brainer for families. Through Jan. 3, you can get one with 0.9% financing for 36 months, leaving plenty of cash for the antacids you’ll need after sampling grandma’s fruitcake.

2012 Subaru Outback – Reviewers love how the Subaru Outback combines practicality with safety, sure-footed all-wheel drive and good performance. Car shoppers will love how the Outback, which rarely has discounts or incentives, can be leased for just $249 per month for 42 months, or bouth with 1.9% financing. With that kind of pricing, the versatile Outback will be way more useful than that veggie chopper/steamer/shoe polisher Uncle Roy gave you.

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe – ‘Tis the season for giving and getting, and when you opt for the 2012 Chevy Tahoe, you’ll not only get a top-rated full-size SUV with some of the best fuel economy ratings in the class, but you’ll also be able to get $1,000 cash back. What you do with the money is up to you, but after spending a month buying gifts for other people, no one will blame you for spending it on yourself.

2012 Kia Forte – Choosing to spend the holidays with the inlaws or with your family is tough. Luckily, if you want the 2012 Kia Forte, which is available as a sedan, coupe or hatchback, with 1.9% financing for 36 months and $500 cash back. Score one for marital harmony.

Thanks, Jody! We’ll be sure to check these out.

Joe Victor

Joe asks Jody Victor®: 2012 Deals For Christmas

If you are looking for a great deal on a car, the right time may be coming up real soon. I asked Jody Victor to tell us about these great deals from an article by Jamie Page Deaton of U.S. News & World Report from msn.com.

Jody Victor: You might be surprised but the best deals of the year will be happening the week between Christmas and New Years. Even if you aren’t planning on giving or getting a car Christmas morning you may want to take advantage of these deals. Here they are, the 12 best, in 2 parts.

2012 Buick Enclave- A perennial favorite with, the 2012 Buick Enclave features a plush interior and comfortable performance. Through Jan. 2, it also features $1,500 cash back or 1.9% financing for up to five years – which is about how long it will take you to work off all those Christmas cookies.

2012 Ford Fusion – The Ford Fusion features an affordable starting price and performance that’s more flavorful than Aunt Mary’s rum balls. Until New Year’s Day, you can get the 2012 Fusion with $2,000 cashback or 0% financing for up to 60 months.

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan – Germans are famous for their Christmas markets and for building cars that outperform almost anything else on the road. With the 2012 VW Tiguan, you not only get German performance, but also enough space to haul all of those tacky sweaters that grandma gave you back to the mall. You should have some cash left over to get what you really want: Through Jan. 3, the Tiguan has 0.9% financing for up to 60 months.

2012 Mazda5 – Most people resolve to trim down in the new year, and with the 2012 Mazda5, you can start early. With seating for six and the convenience of sliding rear doors, the Mazda5 is as practical as a minivan, but its smaller footprint gives it engaging performance and better fuel economy. Save at the dealership as well as the pump by getting your Mazda5 by Jan. 3, when it has 0.9% financing and no payments for 90 days.

2012 Chevrolet Cruze – Good things (like diamond earrings) come in small packages, but if you’re shopping for a small car, a little extra space is always welcome. Reviewers say the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze packs a roomy interior, good performance and great features for the price. Through Jan 3, you can lease a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze for $169 per month for 36 months. That’s probably less than the data plan you’ll have to get to go with that new smartphone Santa gave you.

2012 Lexus IS – You won’t need eight tiny reindeer to get through winter’s snowy roads if you have all-wheel-drive. The Lexus IS 250 with all-wheel drive is not only sporty, but is available for $329 a month for 36 months, which should make it appealing to even the most dedicated Scrooge.

Thanks, Jody! More next time.

Joe Victor

Joe asks Jody Victor® – Best Bang for the Buck: Horsepower

All sports cars are not the same – they look different, smell different, drive different, oh, yeah, they all cost different, too. I asked Jody Victor to tell us more from an article by Matthew de Paula of msn.com.

Jody Victor : According to this article the power of a sports car is not always proportionate to the cost. Here’s the second half.

5. 2012 Chrysler 200 Touring – Price: $23,165 | HP: 283 | $/HP: $81.86 – The Chrysler 200 replaced the Sebring and we’re glad for that; it is a marked improvement in many ways. As twin to the Dodge Avenger, the 200 has the same new Pentastar V6, but in SXT Touring trim it’s more affordable than the most affordable version of the Avenger that comes with the V6. That’s why it ranks higher on this list. Although they’re mechanically the same, the Chrysler and Dodge sedans have different characters. The 200 is more sophisticated, while the Avenger goes for a sporty, younger feel.

4. 2012 Dodge Charger R/T RWD = Price: $29,995 | HP: 370 | $/HP: $81.07 – Dodge drastically improved the Charger R/T for 2011, and the good news for 2012 is that the company is holding the line on pricing. That means you can get a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine for just less than $30,000. No other automaker sells a car like the Charger in the United States at the moment: a large, powerful, rear-wheel-drive sedan at an affordable price. Although 370 horsepower sounds like a lot, the Charger is big and heavy, so it ends up being just enough power for good acceleration. Still, this is a lot of car for the money.

3. 2012 Dodge Challenger R/T – Price: $29,995 | HP: 376 | $/HP: $79.77 – The Dodge Challenger is the Charger’s 2-door sibling. It has six more horsepower under the hood. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference. The reason to get a Challenger over a Charger is styling versus practicality: It’s sleeker but not as handy, with two fewer doors than the Charger. Compared with the Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang, this big coupe feels fat and flabby. But it has a comfortable ride and the Hemi makes it entertaining enough. Upgrading to the pricier SRT8 version on either the Challenger or the Charger brings more power, but it isn’t as good a power value.

2. 2012 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe SS – Price: $31,850 | HP: 426 | $/HP: $74.77 – If we were ranking cars based on attitude per dollar, the Chevrolet Camaro would win hands-down. Its aggressive appearance is intimidating. Drivers hustled out of its way when they saw us approaching in the rearview mirror. And both young and old exclaimed how impressive it was when they came across it on the street. The SS version gets a power boost with a 426-horsepower V8. That’s supercar power at a fraction of the cost of a Ferrari or Porsche. The Camaro is a well-rounded performer, even though it doesn’t feel quite as lively and tossable as a Ford Mustang.

1. 2012 Ford Mustang GT Coupe – Price: $29,310 | HP: 412 | $/HP: $71.14 – The Ford Mustang GT offers 14 horsepower less than the Chevy Camaro SS, but it’s less expensive. So it edges out its arch rival in this price-to-power competition. Numbers aside, Ford has fine-tuned this car to near perfection. Its Achilles heel is the interior, which, although much improved over that of past Mustangs, still feels cheap. Dynamically, the Mustang is a joy to drive on both road and track. It’s beautifully balanced, and the V8 engine in the GT version gives awesome acceleration. A slew of improvements are coming for 2013, including more power for the V8 in the GT model, and a 650-horsepower Shelby GT500.

Thanks, Jody! We’ll be sure to check ‘em out.

Joe Victor