Car Talk With Rowdy

09 Nissan Cube

texasautoguide — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 02:28:27 +0000

2009 NISSAN CUBE SET FOR SPRING U.S. DEBUT; NEW ENTRY-LEVEL COMPACT COMBINES FASHION WITH FUNCTIONALITY

Huey Lewis once sang “It’s hip to be square.” Few believed him. Mathletes wax poetic about the superior geometric efficiencies of a cube in terms of volume v. surface area. And get little respect. Cavemen discovered that a round stone rolls better than a square one. And, as a consequence, gave birth to the traffic jam. In 1998, Nissan introduced the original Cube, an aptly named box-on-wheels, to minor consumer interest. Perhaps, like homo erectus, the Cube was simply ahead of its time.

But times change, and so did the Cube. In 2002, an all-new second generation Nissan Cube was introduced in the Japanese market. More spacious inside, more glass outside, more power under the hood and, more importantly, a few more angles and curved surface details added to its compact, slab-sided exterior. Quintessentially Japanese, this new Cube took Tokyo by storm. A pocket-sized fun-and-function cocktail mixing the charm of Godzilla and the wit of Mothra, buyers were smitten. And so, it turns out, Huey was right after all.

Like the Nissan GT-R before it, the Nissan Cube soon found an audience outside of Japan – not in person, but through its exposure in fashion and automotive magazines, videos and on the Web.

Reboot to today, more than 10 years since its original appearance, and the Nissan Cube is ready to meet the world in person, coming to America in spring 2009 in an all-new, dramatically rethought third generation design that is clever, quirky, witty, fun and uniquely functional. And still totally square.

More than just unique geometry, however, the new 2009 Nissan Cube is also conceived as a totally different take on an automobile – a car that doesn’t want to be defined as car. “With its unique blend of fashion and function, Cube imagines a life less ordinary,” said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “Cube is as much of a Mobile Device as it is an automobile, something that enhances life like people’s digital devices do. Cube is a vehicle that people of all ages can fall in love with, even when they don’t love cars.”

Evocative Yet Rational

Though its uniquely styled, asymmetrical body makes a standout statement against the backdrop of today’s look-alike entry-level vehicles, Cube presents a range of strong rational arguments for purchase as well.

Along with its projected fuel economy of over 30 mph Highway (equipped with the CVT transmission, actual EPA estimates not available at this time), Cube offers an alphabet of standard safety equipment – including an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), six air bags (including front, side and curtain supplemental air bags) and front seat Active Head Restraints.

“The new Nissan Cube is not, by any measure, a pure ‘youth car,’ though it especially meets the needs of young adults’ lives in the sense that it is social, expressive and practical,” said Castignetti. “And like many entry-level vehicles, Cube will be purchased by young consumers with the help or influence of their parents. We believe the combination of value, fuel economy and safety will be especially reassuring to parents involved in such decisions.”

A “Bulldog in Sunglasses”

The all-new 2009 Nissan Cube builds on the previous generation Cube’s non-traditional design with an improved stance and an added sense of dynamic movement. With Cube’s long wheelbase relative to its overall length (a 99.6-inch wheelbase against a 156.7-inch overall length) and wide track, the wheels, in effect, are pushed out to each corner – providing exceptional space utilization and a confident-looking stance that has been compared to a “bulldog in sunglasses.”

“The designers, engineers and planners’ effort and passion in creating the next generation Cube was unheard of – perhaps only exceeded in recent memory by that of the Nissan GT-R development team,” said Castignetti. “They were constantly drawing, cartooning, adding thoughts and ideas, which is how the image of the bulldog emerged and evolved. This was not a traditional development process.”

Along with its stance, the “incognito canine” look is aided by the wide headlights and grille treatment, the small but substantial body proportions and the short “tail” section. In the rear, the bar-type taillights reinforce the wide, anchored feel. The Cube’s creators also sought to maintain a sense of “pure design,” reducing the number of character lines to give simplicity and freshness to the styling.

Another unique aspect of the Cube’s exterior is the greenhouse. The A-pillars are positioned far outward and relatively upright, giving a wider range of forward visibility. The front door windows utilize a “photo frame” design patterned after a personal photo frame, while the asymmetrical wraparound side/rear window creates enhanced rear diagonal visibility for lane changes and reverse parking.

“The ‘geometric circle shape in the square’ rear window is Cube’s signature,” said Castignetti. “Though there are D-pillars on both sides of the Cube, the visual effect of the narrower passenger-side pillar is quite remarkable in the overall appearance, a look aided by the asymmetrical back door.”

Unlike typical top-hinged or clamshell-style utility rear doors, Cube features an easy-access refrigerator-style opening, which makes it possible to open or close it even if parked tight against other cars in parallel parking spaces or when backed in against a wall or other obstacle.

The back door opens fully when space allows for loading groceries, luggage or large-sized objects – or to a limited-access position (about eight inches) when space is restricted for retrieving or loading a backpack or other small objects. The one-hand door handle operation is designed for easy use, even while carrying things in the other hand or arm.

The 2009 Nissan Cube is available in eight mild-to-wild exterior colors: Chrome Silver, Steel Grey, Bitter Chocolate, Scarlet Red, Caribbean Blue, Moss Green, Super Black and White Pearl.

A “Casual Lounge” Interior

The centerpiece of the new Cube’s universal appeal is its “social space” – the surprisingly roomy interior that offers room for five in a lounge-like comfort. “Cube is not wasteful in terms of its footprint, carbon or physical. It creates a third space, in addition to home and school, for interacting with friends. It’s a space that is highly changeable and adaptable to owners evolving lives, with plenty of room for personalization,” said Castignetti.

Cube’s clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space was conceived with a “Jacuzzi Curve” layout and “floating meter pod” driver’s area. It combines “casual lounge”-style passenger seating with a relaxed driving experience. The interactive interior is anchored by its curve-themed architecture, such as the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, armrests and the iconic circular/oval shapes of elements ranging from air conditioning vents, door pulls and climate controls.

The comfortable Cube seating includes 6-way manual driver’s seat and 4-way manual front passenger’s seat, along with a “lounge sofa” style sliding rear bench seat.

The reclining rear seat can be adjusted to three positions – full rearward (providing ample legroom), mid-position (3.9 inches forward) or front position (6.0 inches forward). The rear seat also is positioned higher than the front seats, theater style, enhancing rear passenger comfort and visibility.

“In some ways, the Cube is like the big cardboard appliance boxes you used to play in as a kid – they could be clubhouses, race cars, forts, whatever your mood and imagination wanted at the time,” said Castignetti. “The new Cube’s interior leaves room for imagination and personalization, yet also starts with a solid functional purpose.”

Stress-Free Driving, Room For Personalization

Cube’s stress-free driving experience is the result of a number of factors: an extremely tight 32.8-foot curb-to-curb turning radius, a tall seating position made possible by the tall body height, an extremely short hood “invisible length” (the area of the hood panel that the driver is unable to see) and the good rear visibility for parking and backing up.

“Our studies show that one of the most stressful aspects for young or inexperienced drivers is parking, particularly parallel parking,” said Castignetti. “Cube is extremely adaptable to parking environments in terms of its compact exterior dimensions, good visibility and easy steering.”

Other interior features include the “floating pod” instrument panel with asymmetrical light blue and white gauges, which are designed to make it easier to distinguish between the speedometer and the tachometer. The gauge needles “sweep” when the engine is started to add a sense of flair, while the gradation effect gives a natural ambience simar to the glow of the white moon and the blue earth. Sub-gauges are concentrated for enhanced visibility. The three-spoke steering wheel is available with leather wrapping and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Convenient storage spaces and cup/bottle holders are abundant throughout the Cube interior – including six cupholders (instrument panel, front center console and rear armrests) and five bottle holders (door panels and center console). There are also detachable multi-hooks for holding bags or hats, which can be moved from place to place – including the instrument panel and rear passenger doors.

The “shelf expression” concept features two “shelves” located on top center and passenger side of the instrument panel. Not designed for holding objects when the Cube is in motion, they provide convenient spaces for placing keys, cell phones or digital music players when the vehicle is parked. The shelves can be personalized with accessory wood-like trim or shag carpeting. Cube’s “Magic Rubber Bands,” another clever Cube accessory item, are colorful rubber straps (red, yellow, orange or silver) that slip into cutouts on the door armrests to secure items such as maps, nametags, photos, towels or small stuffed animals.

“The interior concept is really about the Cube conforming to the users’ needs, rather than the other way around – you can put your favorite items anywhere you want, not where the vehicle tells you to,” said Castignetti. “The designers demanded that every aspect of the Cube interior be delightful, as well as functional.”

The Cube interior design also incorporates a series of subtle “Water Drop” concentric circles, inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water. The circles can be seen in items ranging from the roof headliner to the cupholders to the climate control design.

A Wide Range of Available Features

Cube’s heating and cooling system provides quiet, efficient operation with easy to recognize and use knobs and switches. Other standard equipment offered on the 2009 Nissan Cube includes power windows with driver’s side one-touch auto down feature, Remote Keyless Entry system, power door locks with auto-locking feature, variable intermittent windshield wipers and intermittent rear window wiper, rear window defroster with timer, cargo area courtesy light and hooks, 12-volt power outlet and adjustable front seat belt upper anchors.

Available Cube technology features include Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth^® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six speakers, XM^® Satellite Radio (XM^® subscription required, sold separately), Interface System for iPod^® and a rear sonar system.

The Cube interior is offered in two color environments, Wall Gray and Graphite. Wall Gray, available in a quilted suede-like fabric with special “natural wave” stitching only, is designed to create a relaxing contrast between the warm, light gray upholstery and warm off-black interior accents. The warm off-black Graphite interior, available in two cloth grades, provides a combination of relaxation and more traditional “driving enjoyment” attitude.

“The Cube interior is a great example of how an inexpensive, high value vehicle can be done well – quality design, quality materials and the features and equipment that the user needs with room for personalization, rather than forced customization,” said Castignetti.

Unexpected Power and Driving Ease

Just as Cube has its own unique take on styling and interior design, the engineering team took a fresh approach to performance – creating a vehicle that is easy to drive and easy to handle in traffic.

The emphasis for Cube’s performance credentials is squarely on fun-to-drive, rather than exhilaration. Cube combines an advanced 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder with a new-generation Nissan Xtronic CVTÔ (Continuously Variable Transmission) for good acceleration response, smooth operation and fuel efficiency. Torque is rated at 127 lb-ft.

The MR18DE engine, also utilized in the popular Nissan Versa, is designed to be powerful and responsive, while also delivering excellent fuel economy. Fuel economy is projected to be over 30 miles per gallon Highway with the CVT transmission (actual EPA fuel economy unavailable at this time).

The Xtronic CVT, unlike conventional stepped gear automatics, operates as essentially “one gear” through use of a belt and two pulleys. By infinitely varying the working diameters of the two pulleys, the transmission eliminates the “steps” between gears, resulting in a smoother, more efficient operation by keeping the engine in its optimum power range under a variety of driving and load conditions.

Cube’s new generation CVT adopts a new CVT oil warmer for enhanced warm-up performance in cold conditions (reducing friction). It also includes an advanced Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), which detects the driving situation and style (economy, normal, sports) and communicates with the engine control – helping optimize both fuel economy and driving pleasure.

The 2009 Cube is also offered with a 6-speed manual transmission with a new shift control system, triple cone synchronizers (1^st and 2^nd gear) and reverse synchronizer system. The 6-speed manual is available with Cube 1.8 and Cube 1.8 S models.

“The Cube has a strong power-to-weight ratio, which combined with the advanced CVT, gives it a surprisingly spirited driving feel. Throw in the small turning radius, good outward visibility and the smooth suspension feel and you have the perfect formula for navigating through traffic with confidence and ease,” said Castignetti.

Cube’s suspension combines an independent MacPherson strut front design with stabilizer bar with a torsion beam rear with integrated stabilizer bar. Its comfortable, flat ride is a result, in part, of the “Ripple Control” shock absorbers and the high body stiffness. Other standard equipment includes vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power-assisted steering, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and 15-inch wheels with P195/60R15 tires.

Cube’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Cube also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Three Well-Equipped Models

The 2009 Nissan Cube is offered in three well-equipped models: Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S and Cube 1.8 SL.

A full range of dealer accessories allows buyers to expand their Cube world with items such as an illumination kit with 20 selectable colors, illuminated kick plates, rear cargo organizer, pet blankets, wheels, aero kits and moilre.

“We know that self-expression is important to many potential Cube buyers, so we’ve provided the room and accessorize to help with personalization,” said Castignetti. “However, Cube is far from a blank or empty canvas that buyers must equip on their own. Cube is a different kind of box than other vehicles on the market, with an abundance of personality right off the assembly line.”

Smart Simplicity

“Economical, affordable, functional and adaptable, the 2009 Nissan Cube offers an unmatched sense of ‘smart simplicity.’ It builds on a Cube DNA of distinctive spirit and non-automotive style, and adds an enhanced level of humanistic charm and clever design,” said Castignetti. “If cars could talk, Cube would be likely to say, ‘Nice to meet you.’ Come this spring, America gets its chance.”

SUZUKI GOES TRUCKIN’ WITH ALL-NEW EQUATOR MIDSIZE PICKUP

texasautoguide — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:38:06 +0000

09 Suzuki Equator

To bolster its versatile and dynamic product line, enhance the company’s bold and adventurous identity and empower customers to confidently explore the world, Suzuki introduces the all-new 2009 Equator, marking Suzuki’s first entry into the midsize pickup truck market. The new Equator offers a well-rounded combination of style, utility, comfort and off-road capability, which truck buyers – many of whom are current Suzuki motorcycle, A TV and marine owners and loyalists – demand and enjoy.

Developed as a joint effort with Nissan North America, Inc., the 2009 Equator is available in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles and rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. To accommodate loads ranging from ATVs to motorcycles, Suzuki offers Crew Cab variants in both Short Bed and Long Bed configurations. Equator also incorporates class-leading standard safety features into the truck, including roof-mounted curtain side-impact and rollover supplemental airbags and seat-mounted side-impact supplemental airbags. As with all retail 2009 Suzuki automobiles and light trucks, the Equator, the latest addition to a product lineup poised for unique discoveries, is backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Power and Traction to the People

Built at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn., the 2009 Equator offers a standard 2.5-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque or an available 4.0-liter, V6 DOHC engine producing an unbeatable 261 horsepower with 281 lb.-ft. of torque. Designed for outstanding performance and durability, the Equator’s V6 engine features an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, Teflon®-coated pistons, micro-finished forged steel crankshaft, micro-finished camshafts driven by a silent two-stage timing chain and variable valve timing.

The Equator comes equipped with either a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission or five-speed manual transmission available only on four-cylinder models, and offers an available shift-on-the-fly 4WD system that features an electronically controlled part-time two-speed transfer case. For enhanced off-road capability, the rugged Equator offers a comprehensive off-road traction system, including four-wheel active limited slip traction control, electronic locking rear differential, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control.

Big Truck Capability in a Smart-Sized Package

The Equator’s right-sized packaging suits the diverse needs of many pickup truck customers. Though smaller than the full-sizers, the Equator is nevertheless built with big-truck toughness. The strong, fully boxed frame is constructed of high tensile strength steel, which is stronger and lighter than conventional steel.

The Equator’s long 125.9-inch wheelbase (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/standard bed) enhances driving stability and comfort, while its overall length of 206.6 inches (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/standard bed) provides the perfect balance of utility, maneuverability and composure for a pickup truck. Its all-steel double-wishbone front suspension balances rugged capability with everyday driving comfort. In the rear, a proven solid axle configuration uses overslung leaf springs and a long suspension travel for the best combination of on- and off-road dynamics and carrying ability. Moreover, the go-anywhere Equator has all the qualifications to enhance a customer’s weekend adventures with a maximum towing capacity rated at 6,500 pounds (V6 2WD Sport Package) to haul Suzuki motorcycles, ATVs and even a boat with a Suzuki engine.

Other Equator chassis features include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering for responsiveness and good on-center feel and standard four-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock braking system and electronic brake-force distribution for optimal stopping performance in all conditions. Equator also features a variety of available wheel and tire packages, including 16-inch off-road-style wheels with BFGoodrich rugged trail P265/75R16 tires and 17-inch wheels with BFGoodrich long trail P265/65R17 tires.

Rugged Style

The all-new Equator features a contemporary exterior design with a number of unique Suzuki elements, including hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers, front fascia and tailgate. A large Suzuki “S” over the honeycomb mesh grille proudly conveys Suzuki’s dynamic spirit.

Both Extended Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and an innovative tie-down system with adjustable tracks, extending cargo-hauling versatility for active and spontaneous lifestyles. The tie-down system employs five special “C” cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attachment points for securing cargo. A full range of accessories are available for use with the channel system, along with specialized bed accessories that make securing and transporting a motorcycle or ATV easier than in many competitive trucks.

Comfort Where Expected

The Equator’s interior strikes a balance between pickup truck function and quality sedan comfort, with both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles featuring flip-up rear seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat and removable storage boxes tucked beneath the rear seats to provide additional cargo capacity. Additional convenience features include a dual glove box with lock and center console storage with power outlet. A number of power points and cupholders, including one-liter bottle storage in the front doors, are standard throughout the truck. The Premium, Sport and RMZ-4 packages include standard cruise control, power mirrors, door locks and windows and remote keyless entry.

Equator Crew Cab RMZ-4 with the Sport package offers a factory-installed moonroof. The bed extender increases cargo room, and off-road capability is enhanced with the addition of Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control. On the inside, the Sport package adds a Rockford-Fosgate® AM/FM/6CD/XM Satellite Radio with eight high-performance speakers and subwoofer, an auxiliary input jack and Bluetooth capability. Bluetooth and audio controls are located on the steering wheel so drivers can keep their eyes on the road or the trail.

Safety Where Needed

The all-new Equator includes a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment with front and rear crumple zones, dual-stage front supplemental airbags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor, three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and tire pressure monitoring system.

All Equator models come equipped with supplemental front seat side-impact airbags and supplemental curtain airbags for side impact and rollover protection for front and rear outboard passengers. Additionally, Extended Cab and Crew Cab models provide three-point seat belts for all rear-seat occupants, including the center position for the Crew Cab. The LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat anchor system is provided in the rear seat of the Crew Cab model.

Choices, Choices, Choices

Pickup truck buyers traditionally demand a wide array of vehicle configurations and powertrain/driveline choices to meet the needs of their multi-faceted daily routines and action-packed lifestyles. Equator Extended Cab models are available with a four-cylinder engine and 2WD in Base and Premium trim lines, with Base receiving a five-speed manual transmission and Premium a five-speed automatic, plus additional amenities. The Sport trim line combines the 4.0-liter V6 with five-speed automatic transmission and either 2WD or 4WD and adds a number of additional features and amenities.

The Equator Crew Cab offers three trim lines, all powered by the V6 with five-speed automatic transmission. The Crew Cab Base model is 2WD, while the Sport offers the choice of 2WD or 4WD. For off-road enthusiasts with a “confident explorer” attitude and a thirst for new experiences, Suzuki offers an RMZ-4 equipped version of the all-new Equator. A name synonymous with Suzuki’s class-leading motocross bikes, and based on the Equator RMZ-4 concept first shown at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, the RMZ-4 production model comes ready to kick sand or get muddy, fully equipped with Dana 44 axles, electric rear locking differential, Bilstein high-performance shocks, skid plates and BFGoodrich Rugged Trail P265/75R16 tires. Fog lamps, chrome mirrors and door handles and a bed extender to accommodate motorcycles enhance the outside, while unique RMZ-4 seat material with red stitching, chrome instrument cluster and vent trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel further dress up the interior.

2009 Subaru Forester – Motor Trend SUV of the Year

texasautoguide — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:28:28 +0000

Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the Subaru Forester was named MOTOR TREND’s 2009 Sport/Utility of the Year.

Topping 12 other contenders, the Subaru Forester was, according to MOTOR TREND editor-in- chief, Angus MacKenzie, the judges’ unanimous decision. “The Subaru Forester is the SUV for our times,” said MacKenzie.

“We are proud and honored to receive this award for the Subaru Forester,” said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president, Subaru of America. “The previous Forester had become a byword for practicality and durability and we knew the 2009 Forester had a tough act to follow. So, we made the new Forester bigger, more powerful and more economical than ever—while retaining its legendary reliability and safety, only in a more complete package. The improvements to the new Forester are also being reflected in consumer demand, with sales up 32% over the previous year.”

Priced from $19,995 the all-new Subaru Forester represents a $1,200 reduction over the entry price of the previous model. It is available with either a 170-hp 2.5-liter boxer engine or a 224-hp turbocharged engine. Blending utility with performance and comfort, the 2009 Forester is built on an all-new platform featuring a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.0 inches) that improves ride and interior space, especially rear seat legroom. The 2009 Forester also features increased hip and shoulder room.

Living up to Subaru’s legendary safety record, the Forester offers cutting-edge safety technology, including Subaru’s ring reinforcement safety system, front, seat-mounted side, and side-curtain airbags and ABS. Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which incorporates stability and traction control systems with a roll-over sensor, is also standard equipment.

The Subaru Forester recently received the highest possible ratings in frontal and side impact crash tests by the governments’ National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition to a five-star frontal and side impact crash-test rating, the 2009 Forester received a four-star rollover resistance rating.

To judge contenders for the award, MOTOR TREND’s editorial staff conducted exhaustive off-road, street and track testing, and carefully considered essentials such as driving performance, safety and features. MOTOR TREND’S Sport/Utility of the Year is not a comparison test. Each contender was evaluated against three simple criteria: superiority (engineering, design, utilization of resources); significance (its impact on the market), and value (what buyers get for their money versus the competition).

Other finalists were the BMW X6, Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Honda Pilot, Infiniti EX, Infiniti FX, Kia Borrego, Lexus LX570, Nissan Murano, Toyota Sequoia and Volkswagen Tiguan.

To learn more about the 2009 Subaru Forester, visit Subaru.com

Hello Permian Basin.

texasautoguide — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 23:31:07 +0000

My name is Rowdy Bolen and I own the Texas Auto Guide Magazine. TAG is a fantastic publication featuring new and used cars, boats, ATV’s, travel trailers, tractors and various other means of transportation.Texas Auto Guide started in Lubbock 2 1/2 years ago and has a great following in the Lubbock area. We publish the 2nd and 4th Friday in the Lubbock area and the Midland/Odessa Texas Auto Guide will publish the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month.We’re excited to provide you with this high quality publication and hope you make the best of its uses.If you’d like more info on Texas Auto Guide, send me an e-mail: rowdy@texasautoguide.com or give me a call at 806-778-8556.The first magazine will publish on August 15th and will be distributed to 23 towns in the Permian Basin, including my hometown of McCamey.

Your Next Ride Is In Texas Auto Guide!

A Car That Runs On Compressed Air?

texasautoguide — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 23:17:01 +0000

I get this e-mail last week showing a car that runs on compressed air. Yeah, the same compressed air that fills car tires and powers a nail gun; that comes from an air compressor.

Could you imagine a car running on compressed air? It was hard for me to believe. But, I clicked on the link and visited the website. The company that develops these cars is based in France and is owned by a Formula One Race Car Engineer. He’s developed a rotary engine that is mounted in the rear of the car, driving the rear wheels which will eliminate friction losses caused by transmitting power to the front steered wheels.

The air tanks are made of carbon fiber which in an impact, they will split open instaed or exploding like traditional steel tanks. The air tanks will be placed inside the alluminum glued frame. Alluminum frames are glued in the same way as aircraft.The car is billed as a zero pollution vehicle, due to it running on air. The air that is emitted from the tail pipe is said to be cleaner than the air that was used to fill it up. The air runs through a series of carbon filters which will eliminate dust, dirt and other airborne particles.

And…as you can imagine, the fuel is cheap. It only costs the amount of electrical energy used to fill up thecar, which is about $2 or $3 worth of electricity. You’ll be able to fill up at home or at a special service station.

Here’s the website for this futuristic ride http://zeropollutionmotors.us/

You can read more about air cars at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_vehicle

Are Texas drivers just that much more friendly?

texasautoguide — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:05:53 +0000

My wife and most of my family went to Atlanta Ga over the July 4th weekend. We took in a Braves-Astros game that went 16 innings, visited the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coke, CNN Center and a few of Atlanta’s downtown restaurants. We, of course, stayed downtown near all the attractions which were within walking distance of our hotel.

When we first arrived in Atlanta, we got off the plane and caught the metro train called the MARTA. We rode it from the airport to a station about 2 blocks from our hotel. We stepped out of the station to see thousands of people on the streets watching the fireworks show in Centenial Park, a block from our hotel.

We get checked in at around 10pm and decide to go get something to eat. While we were checking into our hotel, the fireworks show had ended and the crowds of people were making their way back to their cars and homes. We walked out of the hotel and headed over to the Hard Rock cafe about 2 blocks away. The streets were lined with cars, vans, suvs and thousands of pedestrians. It looks like Tech has just finished a football game and it’s a mad dash to get out.

Bout a block down the street, a van is sitting in a line of traffic, waiting on the light to turn green. Right as we walk up, an Xterra eases out into the road, trying to get in a spot behind the van. The passenger in the van doesn’t appreciate this, even though the Xterra isn’t anywhere near close to hitting him, the passenger says a handful of expletives and then says that he has a gun and that he’ll use it if he hits him.

At this time, I’m thinking that this isn’t a good place to be. As we walk around the backside of the Xterra, the sliding door flies open and a woman in the back says a few more expletives and then slams the door. I was pretty much in shock.

I got to thinking, this doesn’t happen in Lubbock. When we’re leaving a jam packed place, we are friendly and let other people move ahead in front of us because that’s the way we are. Somone pulling up next to us, we know they aren’t going to hit us. They are just moving up into position to get in line. Am I just crazy or are people from urban areas, just not that friendly to each other?

June 16th – June 20th – Powell Family Reunion

texasautoguide — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:03:42 +0000

We’re traveling right now, June 15th, 2008. In fact, we’ve been out of town 4 out of the last 5 weeks. We are between Roscoe and Snyder, heading back to Smyer. We’ve been in Brownwood and near Richland Springs at my wife’s family reunion. The Powell family reunion is held every year at the Powell Family Campground on five acres in the middle of nowwhere. Now some people don’t like the middle of nowwhere, but if suits me just fine. At the campground, there are three homes and a covered picnic barn with 4 refigerators, a freezer, a stove and a sink. 5 picnic tables seat all the guests and a few card tables are scattered on the concrete foundation.

The morning started out with breakfast. Since we’re in the country, we had a country breakfast. Biscuits, two styles of gravy, bacon, sausage, two styles of scrambled eggs, ten different kinds of jams and jellies, milk, OJ and water…for about 20 people. We sat around and played dominoes and visited for most of the morning. As more people filtered in, the morning wore on and soon lunch arrived. Now, there are about 50 people there, lined up, waiting to feast on catfish, hushpuppies, french fries, spinach dip, a corn casserole, coke salad an about 100 desserts. Now, maybe I’m exagerating about the number of desserts, but those Powell’s like their sweets. Pound cake, strawberry cake, pineapple cake, german chocolate cake, ziploc bags of cookies and tupperware tubs filled with brownies. (I had at least 7 of those brownies.)

After we all had our fill of lunch, Meisha and I took a walk over to the little wet weather creek that borders the campground. Since it’s been dry, the creek is a little stagnant looking and doesn’t seem fit for swimming. A couple of the kids wander by and we gather up some grasshoppers and pitch them in the water. One by one, the perch pick them off. Some with brute splashing force and some with a slow stealth that doesn’t even make a ripple in the water. I’m a fan of the outdoors and this was great entertainment for me. Oh, we can’t forget the oversized frog that made it’s appearance next to a rusted propane tank at the water’s edge.

After our walk to the creek, we all sat down and visited more with the family. It was starting to get hot and the water misters were on, but not all that functional due to the lack of wind. Being from the dry side of Texas, the humidity in Central Texas was more than we typically experience but nothing compared to Houston or East Texas. Around 2 o’clock we all gathered around and had an auction. Items are sold every year to help pay the taxes and other costs associated with maintaining the campground. The first item sold was a group of picture frames. After that, everything under the sun. A cat doorstop, a family bible, a handmade quilt, an assortment of jams, an old mailbox belonging to one of the Powells, a blender, an old mixer with mismatched mixing blades (LOL), pictures in crazy frames, a couple of crosses and other assorted stuff; with wininng bids from a dollar all the way up to $150.

After the auction, Meisha, Peggy (Meisha’s Aunt) and I decided to take a litte drive. We went over to go see an old house where Meisha’s great grand parents lived. It had since been torn down and there wasn’t much there. We drove through the rolling hills of looking at famly member’s houses that lived in the area. We then made our way over to the recently renovated Regency Bridge. It as built in 1932 and was redone in 1992 and is used in the opening scene of “Texas Country Reporter.” If you’ve never been there, it’s a beautiful sight. We drove across it, parked the van under a big pecan tree and we decided to walk out on the bridge. It is probably about 100 yards long and sits about 100 yards over the Colorado River. We could see fish, turtles and a varietey of other objects located in the river’s waters. Frequently, a car or truck would cross the bridge and you could see the bridge move live a wave of water as it supported the weight of the vehicle as it crossed.

After our brief trip, we made if back to the campgrounds, where the family was cooling off from the 100 degree heat with some ice cream. David had gotten out the 5 gallon homemade ice cream maker and fired it up. And when I mean homemade, I mean homemade. He built the ice cream maker himself. He did a good job of making it and when the ice cream was ready, we all scooped up some for ourselves. After all the ice cream was gone, we all said our good byes and headed back to Gran and Pappy’s home in Brownwood.

What does this all have to do with cars? Even with the high price of gas and diesel, family members will gripe and complain about having to pay it, but they enjoy seeing each other and that enjoyment is well worth the money. Family members traveled from all over the state to see each other. We came from Smyer, one family from College Station, others from Houston, and mostly from Richland Springs and Brownwood to get out, visit and enjoy seeing each other, while withstanding the 100 degree heat. Now, it’s time to get home.

ROWDY

June 9th – June 13th – Gatlin Family Reunion

texasautoguide — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:02:02 +0000

Ok, so we just got back from my mom’s mom’s family reunion. Every year, the Gatlin Family gets together to visit and participate in family activities. This year, the Gatlin’s invaded Kerrville, TX at the Inn of the Hills. We got there around 9 pm on Friday night, got checked in and found my mom, dad, sister, brother in law and nephew in the pool. Our daughter’s got their swim suits on and jumped in with them.

Next morning, the family gathered up and had breakfast at the Inn’s restaurant. After breakfast, we gathered in the courtyard and played a game unbeknownst to us as Bochi Ball. Eight family members participated in teams of 2 and tried to get their large wooden ball (bout the size of a grapefruit) as close to the Bochi ball with one throw. It took us a while to get the game down, but it was fun interacting with everyone.

After Bochi Ball, we loaded the family up and headed over to a kayak rental store. As part of our afternoon activites, we decided to kayak up the Guadalupe River. I have some river boating experience with our flat bottom boat at the family ranch in Junction, but this was a different animal. Everyone climed in their kayak, some with cooler’s full of water and adult beverages and others with kids. My dad and I got 2 of the 3 two-person kayak’s so we could take Alyssa and Reese with us on the trip. Paddling down the Guadalupe wasn’t to tough in the begninning, but the next day, I was sore. We had to get out 5 or 6 times to carry our kayaks over the rocks and down waterfalls, but the trip was so fun. We traveled about 3 miles down the river which was partially covered with massive cypress trees, an occasional lilly pad field, rope swings and many floating decks perfect for cooling off in the summer heat.

After our kayak trip, we all headed out to eat at Mamacita’s in Kerrville. About 50 people had showed up by this time and we took up many tables. We chowed down on great Mexican food and cooled off with margarita’s and ice cold beers.

After our dinner, we came back and watched a slide show with pcitures from our daily adventures and sat around and visited for a while. The party then headed to the bowling alley for a little night bowling. We stayed at the hotel. Our friends, the Wade’s, came over from their house near Harper, and our kids spent the rest of the evening in the pool.

I was reluctant about going to the family reunion. My grandmother always asks us to go and I turn her down every year, but I was glad I went this year. I met some really great family members and I’m glad my family got to meet all of them. What does this have to do with cars? With the high price of gas and diesel, which we all complain about, we still enjoy seeing family and the price becomes a non-factor when it comes to family. Next…the Powell Family Reunion next weekend.

ROWDY

Paris gets a Yukon Hybrid

texasautoguide — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 14:31:28 +0000

Hollywood has always been the first to jump on the “Green” bandwagon and this should come as no shock. Paris Hilton has ordered a GMC Yukon Hybrid for her birthday on Feb 17th. It’s great that she is doing her part to reduce greenhouse emissions. Unfortunately, this is not her first hybrid. She’s had a Toyota Prius, a Ford Escape Hybrid and a Hummer H3 Hybrid. The H3 Hybrid was not designed by Hummer. Here is a link to the Yukon Hybrid we posted last month: http://texasautoguide.wordpress.com/2008/01/26/chevy-tahoe-hybrid/

Isuzu Leaving The US Market

texasautoguide — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 23:18:05 +0000

PRESS RELEASE: Isuzu to End North American SUV Sales

Isuzu Motors Limited has decided to end its North American SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) new vehicle sales business as of January 31. 2009. Last year it sold just 7,906 units, down from 15,751 units in 2006. It will continue it’s fleet truck business and parts and service business in the US, but will target an estimated truck sales of 350,000 units in other countires.

Locally, Frank Brown Isuzu will sell the remaining models and continue to service the vehicles sold to it’s customers in this area.