Valerie Menard

Valerie Menard is a freelance writer and published author with 16 years of reporting about the auto industry for Latino publications.

Montoya Wins Big at Indy 500

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May 292015

Juan Pablo Montoya earned $2,449,055 from an overall purse of $13,397,315 for his victory May 24 in the 99th Running of the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

In driving his No. 2 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet to victory, Montoya held off reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion and teammate Will Power by 0.1046 of a second – the fourth-closest finish in race history. The Penske pair battled Target Chip Ganassi Racing’s Scott Dixon in a thrilling final 15 laps. This marks Montoya’s second Indianapolis 500 win, as the Colombian won “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” as a rookie in 2000.

Five of the race’s 37 lead changes occurred in the last 15 laps following a restart when Montoya, who led four times for a total of nine laps, passed Dixon in Turn 1 for second place before overtaking Power exiting Turn 4 to capture the lead on Lap 197. He held the lead for the remainder of the 200-lap event. The nine laps led by Montoya is the third-fewest laps led by a winner. Dan Wheldon led one lap in 2011 and Joe Dawson led two laps in 1912.

The 15-year gap between Montoya’s two Indianapolis 500 triumphs is the longest stretch for a driver. The victory extended team owner Roger Penske’s record of Indy 500 victories to 16.

Power, who earlier this month won the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis on the IMS road course, earned $792,555 in driving his No. 1 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet to a runner-up finish, his best in eight “500” starts. Power led the race five times for a total of 23 laps.

Charlie Kimball, who started the race 14th on the grid, also posted a career-best Indianapolis 500 performance in finishing third in his fifth start driving the No. 83 Novo Nordisk Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet. Kimball led the race twice for 10 laps and earned $564,055.

GM Recalls 2.42 Million Vehicles in Four U.S. Recalls

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May 182015

2008 Pontiac G6 GT Sedan

DETROIT – In a continuing effort to quickly address emerging safety issues, General Motors announced today it is recalling about 2.42 million vehicles in four separate U.S. recalls. The recalls are for:

1,339,355 Buick Enclave,
2015 Buick Enclave

Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia medium crossovers from the 2009-2014 model years and Saturn Outlooks from 2009-2010 because front safety lap belt cables can fatigue and separate over time. In a crash, a separated cable could increase the risk of injury to front seat passengers.

1,074,932 of the previous generation 4-speed automatic transmission
2008 Chevy Malibu

Chevrolet Malibu from the 2004-2008 model years and Pontiac G6 from the 2005-2008 model years because of a shift cable that could wear out over time, resulting in mismatches of the gear position indicated by the shift lever.

1,402 Cadillac Escalades and Escalade ESVs
2015 Cadillac Escalade

from the 2015 model year because an insufficiently heated plastic weld that attaches the passenger side air bag to the instrument panel assembly could result in a partial deployment of the air bag in the event of a crash.

2015 GMC Sierra 2500

58 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD full-size pickups from the 2015 model year because retention clips attaching the generator fuse block to the vehicle body can become loose and lead to a potential fire.

There have been no fatalities associated with these recalls.

GM has added 35 product investigators since the beginning of 2014, and, including those announced today, has initiated 29 safety and non-compliance recalls in the U.S. so far this year. Two of the recalls involve fewer than 100 vehicles.

In the full-size crossover recall, the flexible steel cable that connects the safety belt to the vehicle at the outside of the front outboard seating positions can fatigue and separate over time as a result of occupant movement into the seat. GM has told dealers they cannot sell new or used models of the vehicles until repairs are made.

The previous generation Malibu, Malibu Maxx and Pontiac G6 were added to an April 29 recall for certain 4-speed transmission Aura models from the 2007-2008 model year. The Malibu and G6 vehicles equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission have a condition in which the transmission shift cable may fracture. When the fracture occurs, the driver may not be able to select a different gear, remove the key from the ignition or place the transmission in park.

GM is aware of 18 crashes and one injury among the 4-speed Malibu and G6 population. Dealers will replace the shift cable and attachment bracket at no charge to the customer.

GM stopped sale of the 2015 Escalade and Escalade ESV and sent overnight letters, called and emailed the 224 customers who had taken delivery of the vehicles and instructed them to not let occupants sit in the front passenger seat until the vehicle has been serviced. GM knows of no crashes or injuries associated with the Escalades.

The passenger airbag module is attached to a chute adhered to the backside of the instrument panel with an infrared weld that was not sufficiently heated. The issue has been corrected at the supplier and Escalade production is under way at the Arlington, Texas, Assembly Plant.

In the heavy-duty truck recall, certain 2015 model year Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD model vehicles equipped with a 220 Amp Generator have a condition where the retention clips that attach a fuse block to the vehicle body can become loose, allowing the fuse block to move out of position and lead to a potential fire. No crashes or injuries are known to be associated with the trucks.

GM expects to take a charge of up to approximately $400 million in the second quarter, primarily for the cost of recall-related repairs announced in the quarter. This amount includes a previously disclosed $200 million charge for the five recalls announced May 15.

My Campaign on Wheels

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May 172015

Car tests may be grueling, but they don’t always reflect what the average driver experiences on a day-to-day basis. At Latino Traffic Report, my mission is to test cars in real world conditions.

That said, I recently stepped up to run for Austin City Council. Dashing from candidate forum to candidate forum, as well as touring my 45-square-mile district not only exposed me to parts of town I hadn’t explored, it ramped up the normal test-drive.

The 2014 campaign cycle included the very first single-member-district election in Austin. When I realized that Latinos made up the largest portion of the residents in my district (43 percent), I felt Latino voters also needed a choice on the ballot. After polling friends to find a candidate, the consensus was that I should run, so I did.

In the true spirit of single-member-districts—to cast a wider net to attract candidates because of the more affordable nature of running in a district rather than citywide—I embarked on a “do it yourself” campaign. While I didn’t win, I came in third out of nine candidates and on a budget of nearly $4,000. Not bad, right?

On the campaign trail, I relied on each test vehicle to get me around town. From navigation systems to cargo capacity, here’s how the following vehicles met the challenge.

The Dodge Dart at Walter E. Long Lake, District 1, Austin, TX.

Dodge Dart

I registered a campaign treasurer in July in the middle of a long-term loan with the 2015 Dodge Dart Limited. I would get to know this vehicle the best, spending three months with it rather than just the normal week. I thoroughly enjoyed this underrated sedan from Dodge.

I averaged a city/highway fuel economy of 26/33 miles per gallon (mpg) from the 2.4-liter four-cylinder matched to a six-speed transmission. But what really made this car special was the inclusion of fancy features not normally associated with this segment, e.g. an optional seven-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) customizable gauge cluster, white (not grey) and black leather seats, a heated steering wheel, the ParkView rear backup camera and ParkSense rear park assist, and blind spot warning.

It even had a CD player, which is hard to find on new FCA (Chrysler) products.

A navigation system on the campaign trail is essential. The Dart’s was easy to program, especially with the big 8.4-inch touch screen. The UConnect infotainment system was also intuitive.

Finally, the price was right. The as-tested MSRP for the 2014 Dodge Dart came to $24,985.

Infiniti QX70

The Infiniti QX70 stands out in a crowded segment as a performance luxury crossover utility vehicle (CUV). While its looks support that description, especially the rims, I found the 2015 QX70 to be quite handy as well, especially for loading and unloading campaign signs.

In a do-it-yourself campaign you rely on the kindness of friends and family. One in particular, Connie McCracken, lent her design skills to create my logo for the campaign signs. The day I collected my first set of signs and loaded them into the QX70 was the day the campaign officially took off.

The 60/40 split folding and reclining rear seats deployed easily, expanding cargo capacity to 62 cubic feet. Running around town (and in and out of parking lots) to meet with Connie brought the Infiniti’s innovative Around View Camera into use.

Powered by a 3.7-liter V6 matched to a seven speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control, the QX70 achieved an average fuel economy of 19.2 mpg. I did take the QX70 on a road trip to Dallas and the 23.8-gallon gas tank made it there and back (400 miles) without refueling.

In the middle of the Texas heat, the QX70 also offered relief with cooled as well as heated leather seats, specifically, the optional quilted seats with purple accent stitching.

The as-tested price for the 2015 Infiniti QX70, with the Technology ($2,950), Premium ($4,300), and Sport ($3,500) packages came to $58,085.

Chrysler 200

Sharing the same platform as the Dodge Dart, the Chrysler 200 offers a lot of the same attributes, but with a bit more panache and a few exclusives.

For starters, a 3.6-liter V6 matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission powered the 200S that I drove, improving the EPA estimated fuel economy to 18 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. I averaged 24.7 mpg. The base engine is the 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder.

This test model also included all-wheel drive (AWD), a nice option in this segment, adding road confidence.

The S model comes with unique exterior features like gloss black trim and accent pieces, gloss black surrounding the side windows, and integrated dual exhausts.

While the gauge cluster wasn’t as configurable as the Dart’s, the blue back lit speedometer and tachometer added elegance.

Like the Dart, the 8.4-inch UConnect display and navigation system came in very handy. I also received a lot of compliments on the campaign trail from folks who appreciated the 200’s all-new exterior design and blue paint.

The MSRP for the 2015 Chrysler 200S came to $32,775 and included the Navigation package ($1495), the Comfort ($795), and the Premium Lighting ($795) groups.

GMC Terrain Denali on Sixth Street, Austin, TX.

GMC Terrain Denali

The GMC Terrain Denali AWD arrived on the Wednesday before my neighborhood association’s candidate forum. This was the culmination of two months of forums so I felt pretty prepared plus it was nice to arrive (and hopefully make a good impression) in such an elegant SUV.

I also took to the streets block walking around this time, one of the best parts of the campaign. The Terrain made carting yard signs, in case one of my neighbors opted to display their support, particularly handy. Its 60/40 split and sliding rear seats deployed easily as did the power liftgate.

The Terrain set itself apart from its onset, with a standard rear backup camera—you don’t have to opt in for the Denali to get it.

Driving door-to-door put the standard blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert systems to good use.

As a Denali, it had fancy options like red accent stitching and the Denali brand on the leather seats, enhanced ride and handling, and TV screens in the headrests, but oddly, didn’t have push button start.

Pricing for this top-of-the-line version of the 2015 GMC Terrain came to $42,430.

Chevy Silverado

By the time the Chevy Silverado 1500 Z71 4WD LT Crew arrived, it was time to vote.

Early voting began October 20 and for candidates, that meant putting up signs at a handful of precincts. What better vehicle to receive that week than the Chevy Silverado? It carried a lot of signs in its five-foot eight-inch bed plus the EZ Lift and Lower (dampened) tailgate—added with the 2014 Silverado redesign—was put to good use.

A 4.3-liter V6 engine matched to a six-speed transmission powered the test model but the Silverado also offers a choice of two V8 engines (a 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter). The V6 had an EPA estimated city/highway fuel rating of 17/22 mpg. Running around from precinct to precinct, I averaged 17.3 mpg.

The MyLink infotainment system with an eight-inch touch screen works like a tablet, but since I don’t own one it took a little practice to get used to the right sweeping motion required to program radio station presets. I also could have used a backup camera.

Still, the Silverado will hold a special significance for me since it’s the truck that took me to the polls to cast my vote.

The 2015 Chevy Silverado Z71’s as-tested MSRP came to $47,060.

Subaru Legacy

While the Silverado took me to the polls during early voting, the all-new 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i rolled up six days before voting day, November 4. While I had posted a few signs at precincts for early voting, the Legacy and its trunk (15 cu. ft.) expanded even further with the seats folded flat to fit the more than 100 campaign signs I distributed with my boyfriend, Mike Flores, to more than 30 precincts election eve.

In addition to its cargo capacity, the Legacy’s navigation system needed to find some of the outlying precincts with addresses I didn’t recognize, even after having lived in Austin for more than 32 years.

It did an amazing job.

The EPA estimated fuel economy rating for the 2.5i is 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. During my one-week loan, I achieved an average mpg of 29.6

My favorite optional feature was the Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection System that added Blindspot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Change Assist.

The Legacy also carried me to my campaign watch party to watch the results.

The as-tested price for the 2015 Subaru Legacy Premium 2.5i came to $27,480.

Nissan Frontier

While I gave it a good fight, a do-it-yourself campaign can only do so much. As mentioned earlier, I came in third out of nine, but considering the obstacles my campaign faced, I was pleased. I hope others will be inspired to run in 2016 and keep the spirit of single-member districts alive—money should not prohibit anyone who feels the call to public service.

My focus after the election, however, was collecting my precious signs and depositing them at the City of Austin’s recycling center. What better vehicle to get for the test drive than the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X with a 59.5-inch-long bed with 27.1 cubic feet of cargo room?

It also included the Utili-track channel system with four adjustable tie-down cleats and spray-on bed liner.

Powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine matched to a five-speed automatic transmission, the Frontier has an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 15/21 mpg. I averaged 16.4 mpg.

While I didn’t take the Frontier off-road, I did engage the shift-on-the-fly knob for 4Hi during a downpour for a little added road hugging.

This model also included a NissanConnect navigation system that still came in handy, and the Luxury Package ($2,100) with heated front seats, a roof rack, and a sunroof.

The as-tested price for the 2015 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X came to $35,655.

Hyundai Sonata

Sometimes I get two cars in one week to review, so while I traveled around collecting campaign signs in the Nissan Frontier, I was also able to switch gears and enjoy the comfort and elegance of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Limited.

In its seventh generation, the 2015 Sonata continues to build on the last redesign that was so successful—it was a finalist for the North American Car of the Year honors in 2011.

As a Limited model, the Sonata I drove included extras, like brown leather seating, proximity key entry that unlocks the doors as you approach, blind spot detection, and a rearview camera. Interesting innovations included the hands free smart trunk opener that opens automatically after three seconds if the driver has the keys in a pocket or purse, but hands full.

While it competes in the midsize segment, its enhanced interior volume of 122.4 cubit feet earned it an EPA classification as a “large” sedan.

Powered by a 2.4-liter gasoline-direct injection four-cylinder engine and matched to a six-speed automatic with Shiftronic simulated manual shifting, the Sonata averaged 27.5 mpg on the test drive.

Additional packages on the Sonata added a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, cooled front seats, and forward collision warning.

As tested, the 2015 Hyundai Sonata MSRP came to $32,510.

Election results come in on election night.

I ran for office because I believed in the equitable representation that single-member districts promised. I didn’t have much money for this campaign, but I did have many assets, including family, friends, and this excellent fleet of vehicles.

Galveston, a Hurricane Survivor with Old World Charm

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May 072015

Bishop Castle in Galveston, TX.

In Texas, we do have seasons, sorta. As fall begins to take hold, there’s still time to head to the beach for sun and fun but only one town offers even more, Galveston. This city by the bay is a survivor with old world charm, a gateway to a more romantic time in Texas history.

The city’s claim to fame was the devastation it endured at the turn of the last century. Many have borne the brunt of hurricanes but none so famously as Galveston—the 1900 hurricane remains the most damaging ever and most recently, Hurricane Ike (2008) brought an estimated $29.5 billion in damage, the third costliest hurricane in United States history.

But like all post-hurricane towns along the Gulf Coast, Galveston has rebuilt itself, with gusto. New attractions have replaced dilapidated ones, while stalwart structures received modern upgrades. Add to that Galveston’s old world charm combined with sophisticated appeal and the city offers an attractive destination for singles, couples, and families.

History

Moody Mansion

Galveston’s historical homes tours can begin with the oldest, the Menard House, named for the city’s founder, Michel B. Menard, and culminate with glorious Victorian mansions like the Bishop’s Castle or the Moody Mansion. The former has just upgraded to provide self-guided audio tours while the latter utilizes docent tours every hour. Having toured both, there are advantages to wandering through a house at your leisure as well as having someone on the tour who can provide additional information.

Located in the East End Historic District, the Bishop’s Castle is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is noted for its use of exotic materials—including a remarkable stained glass window along the staircase.

The Moody name can be found on buildings throughout Texas but especially in Galveston. The Moody family made its money from a financial empire that included cotton, banking, ranching, insurance and hotels—the Menger Hotel in San Antonio was a Moody hotel.

Much of the family’s belongings, from china to photographs taken by Mrs. Moody, remain, giving the house historical verity.

Art

While it’s considered one of the most damaging storms to hit Texas, Hurricane Ike received very few headlines. A Category 2 storm when it hit Galveston on September 13 at 2:10 a.m., Ike had winds of 110 miles per hour and produced a 22-ft storm surge. Buildings throughout Galveston have posted reminders, inside and out, of how high the water reached that day.

While the city has managed to rebuild, quite robustly, certain structures could not be saved, namely, Texas live oak trees. Salt water damaged their root systems and many died, but rather than tear them all down, homeowners in the historic East End District and beyond chose to convert them into public art, which has now also become a tourist attraction.

Whimsical structures, like the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz, or a siren of the sea dot the lawns of houses in this area. Local artists Dale Lewis, Earl Jones, and Jim Phillips produced the pieces. One-hundred percent of the “Iked” wood was repurposed, converted into sculptures, used to restore at least two historic ships, or carved into wooden bowls and other art pieces.

The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau issued a map of the sculptures for those who would like to tour the neighborhood on foot, while the Galveston Historical Foundation offers tours on a solar powered shuttle for $10–$15.

Shopping

Located in the heart of historic downtown Galveston, the Strand offers visitors blocks of shopping, eateries, art galleries, and unique attractions housed in nineteenth century buildings. These Victorian structures survived the Great Storm and Hurricane Ike (there is a water marker near the harbor that shows the level of flooding from every storm to hit the island since 1900), and were part of the city’s revitalization efforts that began in the 1980s.

At Christmas, the Strand visibly reverts to a Victorian past for the annual Dickens on the Strand event, one of the most popular annual festivals on the island.

The Strand is also conveniently located near Pier 21 at the harbor, where more attractions await. History buffs will appreciate a one-hour documentary, The Great Storm, at the Pier 21 Theater, recounting the infamous hurricane. There’s also a show dedicated to the Pirate Jean Lafitte. The Tall Ship Elissa is docked there and available for tours as is the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum.

Tourists can also book harbor boat tours that may include dolphin sightings.

Natural Exhibits

Named for the Moody family, the Moody Gardens were built with funding from the Moody Foundation. Today, three glass pyramids harbor natural environments to attract children of all ages—a 1.5-million gallon aquarium, a rainforest with free roaming birds and mammals, and a discovery museum—plus a golf course, hotel, 3-D and 4-D theaters, and more. Two or one-day passes are available for $61.95 or $46.95, respectively, but travelers on a budget can purchase individual tickets to each attraction. For an additional $50, animal lovers can secure quality time with a king, rock hopper, or chin strap penguin at the aquarium. A non-profit organization, the Moody Gardens even sells paintings by these birds, which have been trained to walk on each canvas to produce a work of art. Proceeds benefit research and conservation activities at the Gardens.

Accommodations

Anyone can book a room with a coastal view, but for the traveler who appreciates luxury on a small scale, the recently restored Tremont House boutique hotel fits the bill.

The view from the Tremont House rooftop bar.

George and Cynthia Mitchell acquired the architecturally lavish Leon & H. Blum Building and began its transformation into the third Tremont House. Built in 1879, the company was once the South’s premiere wholesale dry goods supplier. When the hotel opened in 1985 it was the first major hotel to open in downtown Galveston in 60 years. A catalyst for the revitalization of Galveston’s historic downtown, the 119-room Tremont House is also walking distance from the Strand.

The Mitchells also acquired another of the city’s historic properties, the Hotel Galvez. While renovations continue, the hotel celebrated its centennial in 2011. As the sister hotel to the Tremont House, guests at the latter get free access to the spa and pool located at the Galvez. While the Tremont House may be more appealing to couples, the Galvez certainly suits families. Both hotels are managed by the Wyndham Hotels.

Dining

Sitting inside Rudy & Paco you could imagine being in any major urban center in the country. This elegant eatery adds a South American touch to grilled seafood and steak. Chef Paco Vargas infuses flavors from his native country, Nicaragua, with traditional American faire, captured in dishes like the Filete De Pargo Simpatico (pictured, right), fresh gulf red snapper plantain encrusted, pan sautéed served with raspberry chipotle sauce and topped with lump crabmeat.

In the tradition of Latino restaurateurs, Vargas adopts a mi casa su casa approach at Rudy & Paco. He greats guests with a “Welcome home baby!” and adds drama to the dinner service with choreographed food delivery; during each course, a team of waiters

Gaido’s famous pecan pie.

delivers each plate to the table in perfect synchronicity. The upscale service, especially at night when shorts are not permitted, also translates into upscale prices.

Other suggested spots include Sky Bar Steak & Sushi, Sunflower Bakery & Café, Farley Girls Café featuring Chef Juan Cardona, Olympia The Grill at Pier 21, and the storied Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant.

Family Fun

Re-opened in 2012, the Pleasure Pier’s history actually dates back to the late 1940s when it was built as a tourist destination, similar to Coney Island. Damaged by Hurricane Carla in 1961, the Flagship Hotel was built near it. Hurricanes struck again, this time in 2008 with Hurricane Ike, damaging the hotel extensively and it was abandoned. Landry restaurant chain owner and Galveston native son, Tilman Fertitta, took over the property and began plans to rebuild the Pleasure Pier to its former glory.

Ferris wheel at the Pleasure Pier.

This mini amusement park has just enough rides (16) to entertain children and their parents including a roller coaster that climbs vertically for 100 feet, a log ride that dips into the Gulf, a carousel, and a 200-ft.-tall Ferris wheel that hangs over the water. But like an amusement park, it can be pricey when food and drinks are included. Still, it is a nice place to drink a beer and look out over the water.

All-day passes run $19.99–$26.99. Individual ride tickets cost $4 but a $10 pass to enter the Pier is also required.

Nature

The Clapper Trail Loop (named after the abundent Clapper birds) is a well maintaned walking and biking trail with a lookout tower and two wooden bridges.

At the west end of the island is Galveston State Park, a 2,013.1-acre site that was acquired in 1969 from private owners and re-opened in 1975. A nature lover’s delight, the park welcomes wading and shore birds, mottled and mallard ducks, raccoons, armadillos, and marsh rabbits, as well as migratory birds during the spring and fall.

Four miles of nature trails, with an observation platform, boardwalks, and photo blinds, guide sightseers through a variety of coastal habitats. Visitors can also schedule an appointment with a park ranger for a personal tour of the flora and fauna.

Campers are welcome as well as fishermen. Those who don’t come with tackle can borrow from the park for up to seven days as part of the Tackle Loaner Program. A fishing license isn’t needed while within the boundaries of the park. The daily entry fee is $5 for adults.

Forty-five minutes from Houston, visitors are encouraged to fly into Houston Hobby Airport rather than George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Refreshed and renewed, Galveston celebrates its history while facing the future.

Ford Expands Door Latch Recall

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May 052015

DEARBORN, Mich., May 1, 2015 – Ford Motor Company is expanding a safety recall regarding door latches to include approximately 156,000 more vehicles at the request of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, bringing the total to 545,906 vehicles in North America. The door latch in certain vehicles may experience a broken pawl spring tab, which typically results in a condition where the door will not latch. If a customer is then able to latch the door, there is a potential the door may unlatch while driving, increasing the risk of injury.

Ford is aware of a total two allegations of soreness resulting from an unlatched door bouncing back when the customer attempted to close it, and one accident allegation when an unlatched door swung open and struck the adjacent vehicle as the driver was pulling into a parking space.

Affected vehicles include certain 2011-14 Fiesta vehicles built at Cuautitlán Assembly Plant, Nov. 3, 2009 to May 31, 2013; certain 2013-14 Fusion vehicles built at Hermosillo Assembly Plant, Feb. 1, 2012 to May 31, 2013; certain 2014 Fusion vehicles built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant, April 12, 2013 to April 26, 2013; and certain 2013-14 Lincoln MKZ vehicles built at Hermosillo Assembly Plant, Feb. 1, 2012 to May 31, 2013.

There are 456,440 vehicles in the United States and federalized territories, 50,681 in Canada and 38,785 in Mexico.

Dealers will replace all four door latches at no cost to the customer.

2015 Audi Q5 TDI quattro Tiptronic

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May 042015

Once car prices pass the $40,000 mark, there should be little to complain about. Folks will pay at least that much for the 2015 Audi Q5 luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV). On a recent test drive in Austin, TX, there was indeed, lots to like, and a little not, about the elegant SUV.

The specific test model was the Q5 TDI quattro Tiptronic. Few manufacturers have remained as committed to selling diesel powertrains in the United States as Volkswagen, and the same goes for its luxury brand, Audi.

More refined than ever, diesels are quieter and cleaner, but efforts to dispel old sooty images remain a challenge. I literally forgot that I was driving a diesel and its impressive EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway made it so I didn’t need to pump more fuel. The fuel economy on the diesel even surpasses that of the Q5 Hybrid.

Elegant two-tone leather seats.

The powertrain includes a 3.0-liter V6 clean diesel engine with 240 horsepower and 428 lb–ft of torque, matched to an eight-speed Tiptronic engine with paddle shifters on the steering wheel for simulated manual shifting.

There is an average fuel economy calculator onboard to measure fuel efficiency, and once I found it using the Owners Manual (it was hidden behind the Tiptronic shifter on the steering wheel and attached to the windshield wiper wand), it showed my average mpg hovering at around 31.5.

As the name implies, the Q5 also came equipped with the quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. It reduces fuel economy a tad but provides added confidence on slick road conditions and improved driving performance. Introduced 35 years ago, it was the first permanent AWD system for passenger cars.

Q5 Dash (not test model)

Another feature that made itself immediately apparent was the blind spot warning system, or Audi side assist, that flashes brightly on the side view mirrors. Surprisingly, this system, and many more, e.g. back-up camera, aren’t standard but available on the Prestige model that adds $7,500 to the price.

Standard safety features include the usual suspects, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and side curtain airbags, among others.

Available in five models, 2.0T, 3.0T, TDI clean diesel, hybrid, and SQ5, and three trim levels, all Q5s come with leather seats, tri-zone climate control, cruise control, an AM/FM/SAT radio with SD card reader and CD player, and power liftgate. Stepping up to the Premium Plus trim level adds Audi Connect that includes one of the first in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspots for up to eight passenger devices as well as Google Earth Mapping and real-time access to information.

The Premium Plus also adds a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and Audi advanced key—keyless start, stop, and entry. The Prestige (the test model) includes all the above plus a rearview camera, Audi side assist, and MMI navigation plus with voice control and Audi connect.

With any SUV, versatility matters. The Q5’s 40/20/40 split rear bench folds easily. Once folded flat, cargo volume expands to 57.3 cubic feet. I had a chance to test this on the way to an event where I sold serapes as a fundraiser for the Center for Mexican American Cultural Arts in Austin.

The Q5 TDI offers excellent performance and fuel economy, but packaging to get features like a back-up camera that other brands include as standard, will force the price up very quickly. Pricing for the 2015 Q5 2.0T starts at $40,225. The as-tested price for the 2015 Q5 TDI that included several additional packages came to $62,025.

Sí: Very quiet and refined diesel with impressive fuel economy.
No: Packaging sets too high a price for features that should be standard on a luxury vehicle.

Nissan Helps Soldiers Build New Homes

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Apr 222015

Iraq War veteran Brenda Lopez builds her home with help from Nis

Nissan North America, in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), today started construction of a Dallas-area home in partnership with Brenda Lopez, a current member of the Army Reserves who served with the 360^th Brigade in Iraq during 2008 and 2009.

“I’m building my house! I’m excited,” Lopez enthused. “It means a lot to have the other veterans here, especially with the Wounded Warrior Project. They are like another family to me.”

Volunteers from Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity, WWP Alumni and employees of Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp. in the Dallas area will donate their time and construction skills as they work alongside Lopez and her dad, Teodoro. The new home will be located in the Oak Cliff Gardens neighborhood, which is located near the Dallas Veterans Administration Medical Center.

A Specialist in the Reserve, Lopez, a Dallas native, is a recipient of the Army Commendation Medal. She has two preschool children and is taking classes at Mountain View Community College, in addition to working as an office cashier at a local home improvement store.

Nissan has been a partner to both organizations for many years, donating $1 million to the two nonprofit organizations for the project.

“We are grateful to Nissan for their commitment to help families realize their dream of home ownership,” said Colleen Finn Ridenhour, Habitat for Humanity International deputy director Corporate, Foundation & Institutional Relations. “We were honored to be part of the Nissan Super Bowl campaign and to be building with the Wounded Warrior volunteers.”

Since 2005, Nissan’s total support for Habitat for Humanity has surpassed $11.6 million. In response to hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, Nissan donated 50 Nissan Titan trucks to assist Habitat’s response efforts in the Gulf Coast and mobilized employees to partner in home building.

Nissan employees have helped to build 63 homes across the United States, including nine in Dallas, over the past eight years, logging more than 70,000 volunteer hours building homes with Habitat for Humanity.

The company’s support of the WWP includes a recent “Project Titan” adventure, in which two injured veterans piloted a custom-built Nissan Titan pickup on a 10-day adventure through the Alaskan wilderness.

2015 Nissan Juke SV

Nissan, Reviews Comments Off

Apr 172015

On a recent weeklong test drive of the 2015 Nissan Juke, the five-door hatchback or “sport cross” as Nissan terms it, justified the appeal for this growing segment. It’s versatile, affordable, and fuel-efficient, a trifecta for the Latino car buyer.

Since its launch for the 2011 model year, the Juke’s appeal begins with its design. The distinctive profile, from the headlamps to the taillights, is matched with sporty two-toned cloth seats featuring the unique motorcycle tank-inspired center console, finished in high-gloss paint.

The rear 60/40-split fold-down bench seat adds versatility and 35.9 cubic feet of cargo room. I was able to fit a mountain bicycle in mine.

For 2015, the Juke includes standard LED Signature Accent Lamps, projector beam headlights, and bold new colors, like the Cosmic Blue (with a purplish hue) that came with the test model. It was matched to an interior with red accents, but the JUKE Color Studio program allows buyers to customize the colors of select exterior and interior pieces, such as wheels, spoilers and mirror caps. I might have chosen a different color, like black purple, instead of red.

While the test model was configured as a front wheel-drive (FWD), the Juke is available as an all-wheel drive, a nice option for this segment.

Powered by a fairly peppy 1.6-liter four-cylinder and matched to the Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Juke FWD has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 28 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. I achieved an average mpg of 34.1. A six-speed manual is available on the supped-up Juke NISMO and NISMO RS.

Standard technology for 2015 includes a RearView Monitor with a 5.0-inch color display, Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, and Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

An AM/FM stereo with a CD player and USB connection port for iPod interface and other compatible devices, is also standard.

The Juke SV adds the I-CON system drive mode selector—another great feature at this level—and auto climate control digital display, privacy glass, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, premium cloth seating materials, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately) and a power/sliding sunroof.

Packed with function and fun, the Juke, however, isn’t perfect. The front armrest can get in the way of the second drink holder and there’s no auto setting for the headlights, i.e. they have to be turned off manually.

Offered in a range of five trim levels, S, SV, SL, NISMO and NISMO RS, pricing for the 2015 Juke starts at $21,075. The as-tested price came to $23,585.

Sí: Great look and good fuel economy.
No: Armrest blocks drink holder, weak stereo.

Jeep Introduces Its Latest Offspring, the Renegade

Launches Comments Off

Apr 152015

It’s been said you can never get enough of a good thing. When it comes to compact sport utility vehicles (SUVs), Jeep apparently agrees.

Expanding Jeep’s lineup for 2015, the Renegade was recently launched in San Jose, CA. It joins its diminutive siblings, the Compass and Patriot, at the smaller end of the Jeep spectrum, appealing to fans of Jeep capability, as always, but with better fuel economy. The Renegade sets itself apart with more of the Wrangler’s brawn.

Technically, the Renegade is the first Jeep to enter the small sport utility segment—the Compass and Patriot compete among compact SUVs. With few true competitors, the Renegade offers many first-in-class innovations starting with “My Sky” open-air roof systems with removable panels that take inspiration from the Wrangler.

“My Sky” open-air roof systems with removable panels

“The Renegade is true to the Jeep brand, offering open air freedom and packed with fuel efficiency and versatility,” asserted Jim Morrison, director, Jeep Brand, at the launch.

Another first-in-class is the Renegade’s nine-speed transmission. Matched to a choice of two four-cylinder powertrains—a 1.4-liter and 2.4-liter—it helps improve fuel economy. The Renegade Sport and Latitude (pictured at top) equipped with the six-speed manual, however, offer the best EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 24/31 miles per gallon (mpg). On the test drive, the 1.4-liter averaged 27 mpg.

Like all Jeeps, the Renegade will be at ease on the road as well as off. Available in four trim levels in 2×2 or 4×4 configurations, the trail rated Trailhawk will appeal to true rock crawling fans. At the launch, it moved along a trail at the Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area (pictured below) without a hitch.

Off-road capability begins with two new 4×4 systems, Jeep Active Drive and the class-exclusive Jeep Active Drive Low (Trailhawk only). Standard on all 4×4 models, Jeep Active Drive full-time 4×4 system automatically disconnects the rear axle and power transfer unit to help improve fuel economy.

Both 4×4 systems include the Jeep Selec-Terrain system with up to five modes (Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud, plus Rock mode on the Trailhawk model) for drivers to choose depending on road conditions.

Familiar design cues, like the seven-slot grille, keep the Jeep DNA in tact while others offer a new twist, e.g. the x on the tail lights was taken from military equipment like gasoline cans.

Described as Tek-Tonic, the new interior design takes inspiration from extreme sports like base-jumping. Colors like Tresspass Black monotone interior or Black and Warm Sand two-tone seats, and a gauge cluster with a mud-splatter design graphic accentuate the theme.

The cluster also includes the Driver Information Display (DID) with temperature, compass, tire-pressure monitoring, trip computer, distance-to-empty, range, vehicles messages and vehicle speed.

For better comfort and convenience, air conditioning, keyless entry with panic alarm, a UConnect AM/FM stereo with a Media Hub—audio jack input for mobile devices and remote USB port, vanity mirrors, a 60/40 split-folding rear bench, and a removable and height-adjustable cargo floor panel are standard.

The Renegade offers 70 available safety features including a blind spot monitor, forward collision warning, Rear Cross Path Detection, although not on the Sport model. A rear backup camera, however, is available on the Sport and standard on the three subsequent trim levels.

Standard safety features include Electronic stability control with Hill-start Assist, all-speed traction control, electronic roll mitigation, and trailer sway damping.

Designed in America and crafted in Italy, pricing for the 2015 Renegade begins at $18,990 with destination fees.

Ford Issues Safety Recall for Ford Explorer, Taurus, and Lincoln MKS

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Mar 312015

2012 Ford Explorer

Ford is issuing a safety recall for approximately 213,000 2011-2013 Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles in North America (actual 212,911) for an issue with the spring that controls the interior door handles. If the spring is unseated, the door may become unlatched in a side-impact crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Affected vehicles include certain 2011-2013 Ford Explorer and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles built at Chicago Assembly Plant, Feb. 1, 2011 to Jan. 31, 2012; June 1, 2012 to June 30, 2012; and Oct. 1, 2012 to Nov. 30, 2012.
There are 194,484 vehicles in the United States and federalized territories, 12,392 in Canada and 6,035 in Mexico.

Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this condition. This announcement comes on the heels of a recall of approximately 205,000 2010-2013 Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS and Ford Police Interceptor sedans due to an issue with the spring that controls the interior door handles.

2010 Ford Taurus

Affected vehicles include certain 2010-2013 Ford Taurus vehicles built Dec. 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010 and Feb. 1, 2011 to Nov. 30, 2012 at Chicago Assembly Plant; certain 2010-2013 Lincoln MKS vehicles built June 2, 2011 to Oct. 31, 2011 at Chicago Assembly Plant; and certain 2010-2013 Ford Police Interceptor sedans built Dec. 1, 2009 to July 31, 2010 and Feb. 1, 2011 to Nov. 30, 2012 at Chicago Assembly Plant.

Ford is aware of 204,945 vehicles in North America, including 194,889 in the United States and federalized territories, 9,948 in Canada and 108 in Mexico.

Dealers will inspect all four interior door handle assemblies and repair or replace the handles as necessary at no cost to the customer.