CARMAX ADVISES HOW TO AVOID FLOOD-DAMAGED CARS

RICHMOND, Va. (September 29, 2008)—In the wake of a destructive hurricane season that brought flooding to many areas of the country, CarMax, Inc., (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, is advising consumers on how to avoid purchasing flood-damaged vehicles.

“Consumers should be aware that some businesses and individuals may try to sell salvaged and flood-damaged cars without revealing the vehicle history,” said Gary Hickman, purchasing manager for CarMax in Houston, Texas. “Flood-damaged cars that are not structurally or mechanically sound could be repaired, re-titled, and sold to unsuspecting buyers.”

CarMax’s car-buying team offers ten tips for identifying a vehicle with possible flood damage:

1. Check for a moldy smell inside the car and feel the carpet for dampness
2. Ask questions about an older car with a brand new interior or carpeting
3. Check for rust under the brake or gas pedals
4. Look for dirt or rust under the dashboard and floor mats
5. Inspect the bolts and screws under the seats for evidence of rust
6. Check the undercarriage for excessive rust
7. Check inside the trunk under the carpet in the spare tire well area for rust, dirt or sand
8. Look for corrosion, water marks, or a thin brown line on the exterior of the vehicle
9. Check to see if the electrical system works
10. Check the VIN number with AutoCheck or Carfax to see whether a flood claim has been filed or a salvage title has been issued on the vehicle

CarMax provides a free AutoCheck vehicle history report for every used vehicle. CarMax’s team of approximately 900 car buyers nationwide is trained to detect whether a car has frame or flood damage. CarMax will not retail any car that has flood or frame damage or an odometer or title discrepancy.

[Carmax]

Sometimes you need to do a little Field Expedient Engineering to keep your doors shut, once you've turned over the odometer a few times. This truck has plenty of harmless surface rust, with every indication being that it's still about as solid as it was when LBJ was president (though the interior was a lot nicer back then).


Why did this truck's original buyer decide to go with The General's two-door rather than International Harvester's four-door, in spite of the Chevy costing nearly 20% more? Well, the Chevy could be had with the good ol' reliable 230 or 292 six, and the two-door just looks sportier. Still, with the passage of a decade or four, the IHC looks pretty good as well. Which would you have bought?

Land Rover Discovery

No arguing that the Land Rover Discovery is about as timeless as a modern SUV can get, but since most people are born with a natural instinct to avoid buying used British vehicles, prices for a decent used one are cheap. PopMech suggested looking for a '93-'98 model, but we found this clean-looking '99 for just $4795 buy-it-now. The only problem we can think of is that we'd likely attempt growing a handlebar mustache and wearing one of those safari hats everywhere if we bought this. [ebay]

Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Think of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer as part Hummer and part good ol' family station wagon. There was once a time when the woody side panels would have guaranteed that'd you'd never have any friends, but nowadays the Grand Wagoneer has undeniable retro-cool appeal. This one is available in Colorado for just $3400 buy-it-now. [ebay]

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Try not to think of all the soccer moms that flocked to the Jeep Grand Cherokee when it was new. Remember instead the way Bob Lutz drove one up the steps of Cobo Hall and through a glass wall at its debut during the North American International Auto Show. Regardless of whoever bought the Grand Cherokee, it was still a full-on Jeep. Nowadays, they're not just cheap, but have a great range of aftermarket parts available too. [ebay]

Toyota Land Cruiser

The only thing missing from this FJ80 Toyota Land Cruiser are the letters "UN" painted in bold black font on the sides. These things are great for tackling sand dunes, but if you feel like having a different sort of fun, you can always take some air out of the tires and try to balance it sideways up on two wheels. At least, that's what all the cool kids do. [ebay]

Toyota 4Runner

A close cousin to the indestructible Hilux, these old 4Runners were versatile not just because you could drive them over any terrain, but also because they had a lift-off top. Yes, it's a convertible SUV. The whole rear section would pop off, leaving the rear passengers with a full open-air experience. [ebay]

Chevy/GMC Suburban

If the point of this is list is to show affordable vehicles that can go off-road, tow a big trailer, and carry a bunch of people, then perhaps nothing meets those qualifications better than an old Chevy Suburban. This one we found even comes lifted on 35" tires. Sure you might not get the best gas mileage, but this seller claims theirs returns over 16 MPG on the highway after installing manual lock-out front hubs. But either way, who cares? You'll be getting so much truck for your buck anyways. [ebay]

Ford Bronco

Sure, driving a white Ford Bronco will make people think you're OJ Simpson, but why not have some fun with it and paint "I DID IT" on the hood or "If the glove don't fit, you must acquit" on the back? That seems like enough of a reason to buy this '94 model for cheap. [ebay]

Isuzu Trooper

The Isuzu Trooper may have a bad reputation for rolling over, but c'mon, doesn't that just make it cooler? Ok, not convinced? Well, then check out this rare turbocharged model and try to tell yourself it isn't dripping with a certain arms-dealer aura of cool. Those anti-Clinton bumper stickers are included in the $3750 buy-it-now price. [ebay]

Mitsubishi Montero

Sometimes overlooked, the Mitsubishi Montero is a solid choice if you want something with a plenty of off-road capability and interior plushness. This '95 model we found even has the fold-down rear-facing jump seat in the back. [ebay]

Nissan Xterra

The Nissan Xterra may be a very recent vehicle, but with its no-frills character it fits right in with this rough bunch. Common, yes, but between its ruggedly handsome looks and old-school body-on-frame architecture, you can't go wrong.[ebay]

Jalopnik-Approved Alternate Option: LaForza

Italian style with a Ford V8, now that's what we call a winning combination. But does the $5500 buy-it-now price make it a bargain, or is it just the start of a journey into an endless money pit.[ebay]

You could get yourself a Travelall based on the D-1000 half-ton truck chassis for $2,705 back in 1965. The half-ton '65 Suburban sold for $3,270 and the Jeep Wagoneer 4-door was $3,395. What a deal! Of course, you'd have to pay more to upgrade the Travelall from the 240-cube six to the 304 V8 (a wise investment for a vehicle weighing well over 2-1/2 tons).


This appears to be a two-wheel-drive version, so you wouldn't want to take it on a camping trip involving heavy-duty mud-boggin' action. Ground clearance is still great, though, so those dirt roads will be no sweat.


I really could have used this sort of diagram on the first three-on-the-tree car I ever drove- definitely would have saved me a lot of confusion.

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: No
Fashion Victims: No
Treehuggers: Yes
Mack Daddies: No
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: No
Penny Pinchers: Yes
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: No
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: No
Soccer Moms: Yes
Nascar Dads: No
Golfing Grandparents: Yes
Very Serious Businessmen: No
Sheiklets: No

Also Consider:
• Ford Escape Hybrid
• Toyota Prius
• Non-hybrid Saturn Vue XE
• Chevy Malibu Hybrid
• A 1994 Geo Metro

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: Saturn
• Model year: 2008
• Base Price: $24,170
• Price as Tested: $25,720
• Engine type: 2.4-liter inline four cylinder
• Horsepower: 172 @ 6200 RPM
• Torque: 167 @ 5100 RPM
• Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
• Curb Weight: 3789 LB
• LxWxH: 180.1" x 72.8" x 66.2
• Wheelbase: 106.6"
• Tires: 225/60R-17 low-rolling-resistance
• 0-60 mph: N/A
• 1/4 mile: N/A
• Top speed: N/A
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 25/32 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: Frontal: **** driver, *****passenger; Side: ***** f/r

Also See:
• 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, Part One
• 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, Part Two

Acceleration: ***
You aren't going to win any drag races in the Vue Hybrid, but when the electric assist kicks in, the Vue Hybrid does just fine for normal driving conditions. Even accelerating onto the freeway was without drama; keep your expectations in line with the type of vehicle you're driving, and you'll find the Vue's power perfectly acceptable.

Braking: ***
Braking action in the Vue Hybrid is superb...to the point of irritation. The regenerative charging action, which uses engine braking to recharge the batteries in this case, was powerful enough to pitch passengers forward slightly, even with a minor application of the pedal.

Ride: **
Not surprisingly, the Vue Hybrid makes tradeoffs between ride and handling and fuel efficiency. With low-rolling-resistance tires inflated in the upper 30 PSI range, the ride is harsh and noisy. The Vue follows every undulation in the road, requiring constant steering wheel correction at highway speeds. It's by no means sports-car firm, but it's not smooth and comfortable either. At least all that road noise will constantly remind you of how much you're helping the environment.

Handling: *
Without question, the Saturn Vue Hybrid has the worst steering of any current production vehicle I've ever driven. Not just numb and overassisted, but the electric rack-and-pinion seems to make up ratios as it goes along, particularly in low speed parking maneuvers. More than once I overshot a parking space, and even my driveway, because the Vue just didn't do what was expected. Also, the high-pressure low-resistance tires provide very little grip, and I was able to make all four tires howl in protest during a gradual turn onto a freeway on-ramp...at 25 MPH.

Gearbox: ****
The Vue's autobox did its job without complaint and, more importantly, without intrusion. It's just a four-speed automatic, so there wasn't a whole lot of technology to cause problems here. The shifts were perfectly matched to the hybrid's characteristics.

Audio: ***
The Vue Hybrid comes with GM's standard-issue audio system, which with an easy-to-use interface, is actually quite good. Everything you need is present: Sirius XM satellite radio, an aux jack and a CD player, along with redundant controls on the steering wheel. Sound quality is excellent, but you'll need to turn it up loud to overcome the roar of the tires and wind.

Toys: ***
With its auto-stop and electric assist, the Vue Green Line Hybrid can be "fun to drive," just not how you'd traditionally use that term. More like a Game Boy equipped with a new game called "let's see how low my fuel economy can go." Sure, it's fun for the driver, but it's irritating as hell to the guy in the car behind you. But who cares about them — we're trying to save humanity here, people! Other than the hybrid system, the Vue has all the basics. A nice stereo, trip computer, special hybrid air-conditioning mode that allows engine stops even on hot days (up to a point), and just enough power goodies to satisfy.

Value: ****
The Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid isn't as sophisticated as other competition in the gas/electric SUV arena. Fortunately, it's also several thousand dollars less, even at MSRP. It's an even better deal if you manage to snag one during the Employee Pricing For Everyone deal (yes, the 2008 Vue Hybrid is included). If you can live with its shortcomings, the Vue may be the best hybrid deal on the market.

Overall: ***
The Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid takes a good compact SUV, the Vue, and adds about 40% better fuel economy for a 20% price premium — an excellent trade-off. If you're looking strictly at mileage math, the Vue is better than average. But, if you're shopping for a hybrid SUV, the Saturn comes in significantly cheaper than its Ford counterpart while actually returning better highway mileage in a more attractive package inside and out. With some additional refinement to its road manners and handling, the Vue Hybrid would have done even better.

Also See: Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, Part One

GM makes hybrid vehicles that can run in pure electric mode: The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids both use the company's Two-Mode Hybrid system. We'll make the logical leap and call the Saturn system the One-Mode Hybrid. Using a combination generator/motor attached to the engine, the Vue Hybrid provides sort of an electric turbo-boost effect when needed to complement the relatively frugal Ecotec four-cylinder under the hood. It also uses regenerative engine braking to charge a small 36-volt battery pack behind the rear seats. The Vue Hybrid cannot cruise on electricity alone, though it does shut down the engine during stops.

So what good is a hybrid if you can't drive on straight electricity? It all depends upon what kind of driving you do most. If you're running errands in stop-and-go situations around town, the Vue Hybrid could provide you with significant fuel cost savings, since the engine will shut off at lights and give you an electric boost when you accelerate away. Similarly, on wide-open freeway driving, the Vue provides an estimated 32 MPG thanks to its electric assist — even better than the more-advanced Escape Hybrid's 31 MPG highway.

If, on the other hand, you tend to creep along in gridlocked interstate traffic, the Vue Hybrid will provide fewer benefits: Since the Vue's engine will remain on while crawling at low speeds, a true two-mode system like that found in the larger Tahoe/Yukon SUVs or the Ford Escape Hybrid would allow you to move at low speeds on pure electric power, saving more fuel. The disadvantage for the Saturn here is easily apparent when you compare the Vue's 25 MPG city rating with the Escape Hybrid's 34 MPG city mileage.

Why would a buyer choose the Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid over an Escape Hybrid, then? While the GM system is less advanced than the Ford hybrid powertrain, it's also significantly less expensive. A Saturn Hybrid starts at about $26,200, more than $3,000 less than the lowest-priced Ford Escape Hybrid. Unfortunately, it's also about $4,000 more than a comparably equipped non-hybrid Vue XE; that money buys you about a 6 MPG improvement both city and highway.

Actually, that money buys you the mileage improvement and a really nice driving experience for a small four-cylinder SUV, with the electric motor assist making up for what would have been a modestly powered ride at best. The system did an excellent job of seamlessly starting the engine after a stop, and I was never able to "beat" the motor, hitting the gas before the engine was running and ready to go.

To be sure, compromises have been made in the quest for economy numbers. The Vue is downright loud on the highway, with tire noise competing with wind noise; blame low rolling-resistance tires at high inflation combined with a lack of weight-adding sound deadening. But apart from the noise, the Vue's cabin is a pleasant place in which to get from place to place, nicer than its competition and in a totally different class from the previous-generation plastic-paneled Vue.

Viewed in light of the Vue lineup itself, which has matured into one of the most attractive small utes on the market today, the Vue Green Line Hybrid makes a compelling case for itself. That is, if you can find one — GM loves to disclaim its hybrid offerings as "limited availability," and that’s truer than ever with the recent rush to economical vehicles. Of course, availability might not be a problem when you consider that the Vue Hybrid's most logical competition may be the straight-gas Vue XE; one-stop shopping, turning customers curious about the Vue Hybrid on to a four-cylinder XE, might be just what GM had in mind.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: Obviously, gas falling below $4 a gallon is having some effect — unleaded suddenly seems like a bargain, and the short-sighted are likely convinced the energy crisis is over. But we think it's pretty humorous that Lutz is touting the recovery of the truck and SUV market just as GM is in the midst of a huge and well-advertised "employee pricing for everyone" sale. Of course sales are seeing an uptick; that's what incentives do. So, while we're happy for GM that they're able to clear some excess inventory, we're not quite ready to say the truck and SUV sales slide has bottomed out. [Bloomberg]

Although a single semi-official image has been released of the 2010 Chevy Equinox, GM test teams have continued to run heavily camouflaged prototypes on public roads and even within GM test tracks. That changed today, when a fully uncovered prototype hit one of General Motors' internal test loops—allowing us to get the first spy shots of an unclad Equinox from multiple angles.

We can now confirm the accuracy of the original low-res "release" photo, along with our first uncovered look at the crossover's rear 3/4 view. We can now get a much better feel for the interplay of the C- and D-pillars, and the pleasing chiseled nature of the rear hatch. The tail-lights have some interesting surface development, although from the the side they look a bit like the rear lamps on the Dodge Durango.

On the rear bumper, the dual exhaust tips flank what appears to be a chrome inset to match the similar bit of brightwork visible on the front air-dam of the Equinox in the leaked image.

So a friend and I left for that imaginary line cutting across the middle of the state that heads into the untamed wilderness known as "up north." The Tahoe Hybrid was ostensibly built to make such trips easier. Haul the family to the lake in comfort, all while getting 22 MPG. It made sense two years ago when the GMT900 hybrids were in the design phase, gas was $2.50 a gallon, and credit was cheap. But summer 2008 is shaping up to be one of cottage foreclosures and deferred vacations, a vastly different scenario into which these beasts have been thrust.

On the highway, the Tahoe's manners are impeccable, at least for a nearly three-ton vehicle. It's exactly what we've come to expect from a GMT900 truck: A massive, comfortable cruiser that loafs along at 1,800 RPM requiring only minimal input from the steering wheel and even less from one's brain. The highway manners of the nav system, on the other hand, were awful. The interface was a pain to use, options were difficult to find, and the system's idea of the "fastest" way to and from our destination was laughably wrong.

Encountering a few hundred of the lake faithful in a traffic jam near Saginaw, the hybrid's uniqueness began to show. Puttering bumper-to-bumper at about 20 MPH, the engine drops out with a slight shudder and the Tahoe hums along in pure electric mode, smoothly and silently. Until the brakes are applied, anyway: At that point, the regenerative braking leads to an unexpected off-throttle deceleration effect—kind of like engine braking in a manual transmission vehicle. It's not exactly refined, but one gets used to it and learns to anticipate the effect.

When traffic opens up again, a push on the throttle brings the 6-liter Vortec V8 back into action, with the transition between electric and gas marking itself with another slight shudder. A Prius owner might consider the whole thing obtrusive, but the driveline machinations are reasonably imperceptible. At least to the occupants of the Tahoe, that is — everyone else knows exactly what's going on thanks to no fewer than nine different hybrid badges, stickers, and emblems on our tester.

As we turned off the main highway onto the back roads near Mio, and then onto dirt tracks for the final 20 miles of our journey, the Tahoe continued to impress. The suspension soaked up rough terrain without complaint, the interior remained smooth and quiet, and when the going got slow, we slipped into golf-cart mode, gliding past startled deer while the onboard computer bragged about its nearly 22 MPG average.

Green credentials notwithstanding, the Tahoe Hybrid is truly a mammoth, a soon-to-be-extinct lumbering giant that looks at the same time contemporary and horribly passé. It has no place to go; the market window for a full-size SUV that gets 20 MPG closed somewhere around the $3.50-per-gallon point, leaving the Tahoe Hybrid and its GMC Yukon brother outdated before they ever hit the road.

"But it's a hybrid, so it must be environmentally sound, right?" No. A 50% improvement in mileage vs. the straight gasoline-powered Tahoe is a damn impressive feat, but 21 city/22 highway isn't good enough anymore. Conventional minivans do better than that (combined) and carry just as many people, yet even their sales are sinking because their size and mileage simply doesn't cut it these days.

The real nail in the coffin, though, is the $52,780 sticker price on the Tahoe Hybrid we tested. Yeah, it was outfitted with everything except 4WD, but that's the only way they come. "Base" price for a Tahoe Hybrid is still tickling $50,000. Why didn't Chevy offer a cloth-seat, no-nav basic Tahoe Hybrid for, say, $38k? They would have if volume sales were really what they were interested in.

But they weren't. The Chevy Tahoe Hybrid is a marketing gimmick, both for General Motors and the handful of McMansion dwellers who might actually take one home from a dealership. And, unfortunately for both of them, this particular electric car has already been killed by yet another ebb in the American tide of conspicuous consumption.

(All photos copyright Jalopnik/Andrew Stoy)

Also see:
2008 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, Part Two

Tokyo July 17 2008 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil its new Pajero Sport*1 SUV model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2008 (The Moscow Motor Show) to be held at the Crocus Expo in Moscow between August 26 and September 7 (opens to the public on August 29). The new Pajero Sport will be phased in selected regions*2 such as Russia, the ASEAN area, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania starting in the fall this year.
*1 The model will carry a different name in different markets: Montero Sport in South America, Nativa in Latin America and Challenger in Australia.
*2 The new Pajero Sport will neither be sold in Central & Western Europe nor in North America, where other types of SUVs are favored.

The new Pajero Sport features dynamic and sporty exterior lines, complemented by a stylish and vast interior space that engenders a sense of comfort, purpose and safety. This cabin, available in either a 2-row (5-passenger) or 3-row (7-passenger) seating configuration is also very practical with water-repellent seats and a waterproof luggage compartment floor, ideal for leisure use.

Mitsubishi's latest SUV will be powered by a choice of three engines which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy: 2.5-liter and 3.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel units and a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline unit*3.

In terms of architecture, the body of the Pajero Sport is mounted on a new ladder frame to realize high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.

Mitsubishi's All Wheel Control philosophy, forged through its participation in the Dakar Rally and other contests, informs all of the company's 4WD systems. The new model will use the Super Select 4WD system, also used in the Pajero*4 SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface. The body, frame and driveline not only give Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.

The choice of the Moscow Motor Show to unveil the new Pajero Sport is a clear indication of Russia's eminent position within Mitsubishi Motors. In fiscal 2007 Mitsubishi Motors sold some 100,000 vehicles on the Russian market, boosted by the ever successful Lancer line-up and a popular range of SUVs.

MMC is confident that the new Pajero Sport SUV will make a strong addition to its SUV range, which also includes the Pajero and Outlander. Coming on the heels of the introduction of the Lancer*5 sports sedan last year, this will allow MMC to expand SUV sales and hit a total sales volume of 140,000 units on the Russian market in fiscal 2008.
*3 Russian-spec vehicle will only be available with the 3.2-liter diesel engine and 2-row, 5-passenger capacity seating arrangement.
*4 "Montero" in Spanish-speaking countries and "Shogun' in the UK.
*5 Galant Fortis in Japan.

MMC will hold its Press Briefing at the Mitsubishi Motors stand at 17:20 on Tuesday August 26.

10. Public Art
Now that Democrats have taken over Congress and Jesse Helms is dead, nothing stands in the way of getting some sweet, sweet National Endowment of the Arts grant money. When putting together your application, make sure to mention how you'll be involving the desecration of some sort of religious artifact or symbol; the grant people at the NEA love that.

9. Holder Of Contraband
Doesn't it suck when the ATF, DEA or other governmental agency impinges on your right to stock ammo in preparation for the imminent Canadian invasion? It's not safe to keep automatic weapons in your home these days, so why not fill your old SUV full of things you'd rather didn't get found. All that storage is perfect for Japanese elder pr0n, guns, ammo, African monkeys and maybe even a Cuban cigar...or Cuban child.

8. Recording Studio
Given all of the sound-deadening material they stuff into the average SUV, it can be a serene, quiet place. And with 600 power outlets, ample space and cupholders, you've got the perfect location to cut your demo tape. Tina Weymouth approves.

7. Illicit Sex Pad
You know what blows? When your wife, or a British Tabloid, catches you in the throes of passion with one or more Nazi-imitating hookers. Why not throw your SUV up on blocks, put on some Lovage and put out the red light in the roomy back row of an SUV? If this Durango's a'rockin...

6. Newspaper Stand
Parking an SUV can be quite the chore, especially in urban areas. Why not make a little extra money out of the deal? Though not exactly a million-dollar idea, people love the printed word despite the obvious superiority of blogs (read Jalopnik). Nail on a roof, open up the hatch and see if you can't sell out of Vibe. I heard there's a great interview with Cory Booker in this month's Esquire; let's check out the old Suburban News Stand.

5. Trebuchet Projectile
Instead of a gasoline engine, try a siege engine. And what's a better siege engine than the old fashioned Trebuchet? When the next generation of crusades start over oil, we can use them against the infidels, or Lithuanians...whomever, really. Fill up the tank with some sort of fuel and watch it blow!

4. Backstop
What's more American than baseball? The major manufacturers will have you believe trucks are, so in that spirit why not combine the two? It's not always easy to find a fence or a wall so plant a G-wagen behind the plate. It'll be extra fun when a wild pitch knocks out a window or dents a panel and you get to steal third as the catcher picks glass out of his or her eye.

3. Refugee Camp
According to the UN, there are approximately 32.9 million people classifiable as "refugees." Whether because of famine wrought partially by the global weather patterns tied to our industry or because of the wars needed for fuel to power our SUV's, these people don't have homes. We're not sure if it's a write-off, but wouldn't you feel better about someone without a home living in that Excursion instead of in an asbestos-ridden FEMA trailer?

2. Artificial Reef
Growing up, we were shocked to learn that old Christmas trees were recycled into artificial reef barriers. That's thinking green. Imagine how great it would be to recycle that old evergreen SUV by dropping it onto a shoreline that needs protecting? You were probably going to dump it in the ocean for the insurance money anyway, right?

1. Target Practice
Most people's SUVs are probably sitting in the driveway, their owners staring angrily at them as they collect dust. If you're going to despise it anyway, why not use that energy constructively by blowing the crap out of it? Explosives, projectiles or just a baseball bat will do. It's cheaper than therapy and we like to think it's more cathartic too.

Oh sure, you could donate your SUV to the Purple Heart, but where's the fun in that?

In a remarkably candid statement revealing where dealerships actually make their money, Poncho Redfern, president of San Francisco-based Thomason Auto Group, said

"...you can't outrun it in F&I. There's only so much you can honestly earn in that department. This wreaks havoc on the bottom line. We see people with $10,000 in negative equity.

A dealer does not have enough room to help the customer out of it."

Certainly, contractors and those who spend significant time towing will want a sturdier vehicle for their hauling and work. Right? What about SUV's? People seem to be more inclined to buy the Ford Edge, something being reflected in Ford's decision to reconfigure production for higher CUV capacities. Will the Ford Expedition be profitable enough to build in the future? Be the prognosticators. What will happen in 2012?

The report also mentioned cancellation of a future Hummer product and the potential shuttering of a brand, though no concrete evidence has emerged to clarify whether the Hummer product cancellation and brand closure were one in the same (Hummer) or whether Hummer might be allowed to die on the vine while another weak brand, such as Buick, was closed outright or moved off-shore. [Automotive News (Sub. Req.)]

Most people aren't willing to actually change or give up anything; they just want the products to adapt for them. Hence, everybody's new favorite market segment, the crossover SUV. It seems that many midsize SUV buyers can't give up the feeling of an unnecessarily bloated vehicle with minor off-road capabilities. So, they're looking to switch from their old Explorers to an Edge or the new Flex. That may not be news, but it's still sad to many of us who hoped for the rise of the hot 5-door hatch.
[DetroitNews]

2009 Infiniti FX50 Test Drive: The 390-hp Crossover Even Bond Would Dig

There isn't even a regular old Appalachian out here. Turns out, somewhere in the reporting of the hybrid diesel powertrain and the import of the Appalachian, the two were put together in an internet version of the phone game. From what FEV tells us, there were actually no plans for that variant of the truck and it will not be at SAE. The regular diesel truck is still intended for US import, but if you're a curry-flavored diesel electric truck lover, there is no joy in Detroit for you today.

The diesel-electric is fitted with a parallel hybrid system integrated into the transmission and provides drive power at start, additional power on command, stop/start functionality and regenerative braking capabilities. For the time being, enjoy that sweet teal train-like goodness seemingly following the GM methodology of making sure everyone knows you're driving a hybrid via large stenciled letters on the side. Also, there's a hood scoop. We're not entirely sure why that's important, but yeah, there it is. We'll be getting more details for you when things open up officially. For now, we have to work on outrunning the Detroit police.

The most popular item at the auction isn't hotted up vehicles however; it's Abadía's underwear. You see, the notorious Abadía, a member of the Cali Cartel, was captured last august in only his skivvies, making owning an authentic pair of coke-filled Y-fronts a hot ticket collectors item amongst São Paulo's chattering classes.

The auction was such a hit that the police had to be called in to manage a crowd of 5,000 that tried to squeeze into a bidding space intended for just 200. It's estimated that 80% of Abadía's belongs went in the first three-hours.

But, getting back to this hot green SUV: what the hell is it? Our initial thoughts were modded FJ40 or a replica thereof, but the more we look, the more we're confused. Call us crazy, but the thought of owning an ex-drug lord, tri-fuel mud plugger with maybe, just maybe a hidden stash somewhere in its undercarriage gets our teeth grinding. Bonus points to any Brazilian readers who send in an authentic pair of Abadía's underwear. [Via BBC News]

"The Scorpio vehicle is a clear indicator of the enormous implications of globalization on the changing paradigm in vehicle development," said Rogers. "A rapid advancement of technology is occurring on a global scale, and our OEM customers are increasingly leveraging FEV's global presence to ensure around- the-clock development of new powertrain and vehicle concepts. The FEV Group has successfully expanded its capabilities and international reach to accomplish shorter development times and to support these types of global initiatives for its OEM partners."

FEV contributed its expertise in hybrid powertrain systems development and integration, as well as software development to support Mahindra in the hybridization of the vehicle, the first of its kind to be marketed in the Asian market.

"FEV has been a very receptive and experienced partner in the program and is known for their HEV work across the globe. With their support, we were able to meet our aggressive targets. They have made a valuable contribution to the development of the Scorpio Hybrid Diesel SUV," said Dr. Arun Jaura, Chief Technology officer, Mahindra Group.

The Mahindra Scorpio hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) features the following characteristics:

— Diesel-electric parallel hybrid vehicle with four major functions:
- Start-stop
- Electric launch
- Torque augmentation
- Regenerative braking
- Seamless but enhanced driving experience
— 2.2 Liter, I-4, second generation diesel common rail engine with 85 kW
and 270 Nm ratings
— 6-speed automatic transmission
— 30 kW (peak) motor with max torque of 270 Nm (peak) and a max speed
8500 rpm
— 288V, 8.4 Ah NiMH battery
— Quick cold start with e-motor assist

The Mahindra and Mahindra diesel-electric hybrid is representative of the type of advanced vehicle technologies under development by FEV. Further examples of this technology will be on display at the FEV exhibit.

As you can tell, there's not a huge difference between this an the concept, other than a revised headlight and a bit more curve in the hatch area. The interior for this particular model is interesting as well.

Specifically, grab us some interior shots along with some great exterior shots of the new 2009 Pilot and if you've got the best pics and you get them in first, we'll pay you some cold hard cash. Just e-mail us at tips-at-jalopnik-dot-com once you've got them and we'll talk you through how you can send them to us. Now hop to it — the deadline's tomorrow night at midnight. Also, standard contest rules apply. [via Car & Driver]

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: Yes
Fashion Victims: Yes
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: Yes
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: Yes
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: Yes
Working Stiffs: No
Technogeeks: Yes
Poseurs: Yes
Soccer Moms: No
NASCAR Dads: No
Golfing Grandparents: No

Also consider:
• Mercedes CLS
• Porsche Cayenne
• Range Rover Sport
• Infiniti FX50
• Mercedes G55 AMG
• Audi S6 Avant

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: BMW
• Model tested: X6 xDrive35i
• Model year: 2009
• Base Price: $53,275
• Price as Tested: $63,225
• Engine type: 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six
• Horsepower: 300 @ 5,800-6,250 RPM
• Torque: 300 @ 1,400-5,000 RPM
• Red line: 7,000 RPM
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Curb Weight: 4,894 lbs
• LxWxH: 192.0" x 78.1" x 66.5"
• Wheelbase: 115.5"
• Tires: 315/35 ZR20 front and rear
• Drive type: AWD
• 0 - 60 mph: 6.5 seconds [estimated]
• 1/4-mile: N/A
• Top speed: 149mph
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 15/20 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: N/A

Also see:

• BMW X6, Part One

• BMW X6, Part Two

Acceleration: ****
Both the 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six and 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 move the X6 forward with real gusto. There's nothing in it below 100mph, but the V8 doesn't taper off at high speeds like the six-cylinder does. The revvy xDrive35i fits the X6's sporty character best, and weighs 264lbs less, making it noticeably more agile.

Braking: *****
Immensely powerful, the brakes haul the heavy X6 up without drama. On the track, they didn't fade and the ABS isn't over conservative, allowing drivers to fully exploit the available grip. The active dampers eliminate dive.

Ride: ****
Back off the pace a bit and the X6 is luxury car comfortable. While the big 315/20s ride firmly, the suspension always keeps things in control on everything from smooth highways to rough dirt tracks. There's less tire noise than you might think, but it's not as quiet as say a 7-series.

Handling: ****
So good you'll forget you're driving an SUV. Dynamic Performance Control is a genuine game changer, think of it as a form of stability control that gives you more control, increases grip to unimaginable levels and does both without interfering by grabbing brakes or cutting power. Other electronics eliminate dive and roll, too.

The laws of physics do eventually intervene and the X6 will understeer, but its limits are unbelievably high. We'd put the X6 up against any sports car on a tight, twisty and wet mountain road, it's just a shame the steering is devoid of feel.

Gearbox: *
The biggest flaw in the X6's driving experience is made worse by the rest of the car's competence. The plastic paddles are counterintuitive to use and provide a disappointing level of control. The automatic's electronic brain is an unpredictable master, you never know when or if it'll allow you to downshift and loves shifting up at unpredictable moments.

Audio: ****
Another journalist remarked to us that he hadn't noticed the sound that emanates from the differential under hard driving as he'd switched the radio on and spent the day in cruise-mode. We did exactly the opposite and were rewarded with two great-sounding engines and the unique mechanical noise coming from the back end. But taking a peak at the X6's options list reveals the kind of fancy audio systems you'd expect from a high-spec luxury car.

Toys: *****
We'd give the X6 five stars here if all it came with was Dynamic Performance Control, any technology that increases driver control, safety and speed at the same time makes us happy boys. It's the antithesis of traditional stability control — which we normally switch off — as it doesn't interfere with your driving. But, the X6 also comes with every other conceivable kid of gizmo, which while impressive, would make us worry about buying an X6 as a used car in a few years' time. The iDrive is better than ever as well, spend a few minutes getting used to it and you'll be rewarded with rapid, intuitive access to all the vehicle's settings.

Value: *
The X6 costs over $8,500 more than an equivalent X5. While it does drive considerably better, it offers a lot less utility. Having said that, it doesn't set out to be a practical package, more a car that people will want rather than one they'll need.

Overall: ***
Faster and better to drive than any vehicle this big, this heavy and this tall has any right to be, we'd love to be able to give it more stars, but ultimately its flaws compromise its ability to too great a degree.

Having said that, with the X6, driving is believing. Put your preconceptions and prejudices aside and take one for a spin, you'll be amazed. But fitting one into your life might prove a slightly less exciting experience.

Also see:

• BMW X6, Part One

BMW calls the X6 a Sports Activity Coupe. That seems preposterous given both their constant assertion that their best selling SUVs, the X3 and X5, be referred to as SAVs and the X6's four doors, which is 2 more than the unofficial definition of a coupe allows. The BMW X6 is based on that X5, its main difference, aside from the obvious low roof, swoopy bodywork and huge ass, is firm suspension and the addition of Dynamic Performance Control.

It's the latter that makes the X6 so special. Basically the cleverest rear differential in the world, DPC apportions power to the rear wheels independently to improve agility, stability and traction at all times. This matters to you and me because it makes the X6 handle incredibly well and incredibly safely in any condition without cutting power or hitting the brakes to interfere.

Combine DPC with Adaptive Drive, which eliminates roll and dive, and two incredibly powerful engines and you have a car that performs better than even the wildest imagination allows.

The first indication of the X6's genre-creating genius came with a tearing sound from the back end. Getting on the power in the middle of a wet and foggy hairpin in the Appalachian Mountains that sound suddenly joined the twin-turbo inline-six's deep growl as the level of grip began to beggar belief. It's the sound of the rear differential working hard to keep the X6 accelerating rather than spinning. Its function is otherwise undetectable, except through the scarcely unbelievable speed with which it allowed me to attack that windy mountain road in the middle of a thunderstorm.

Eventually, the realities of physics do overcome the ability of BMW's engineers to bend them. Pushed to the limits of grip the X6 will oversteer, stepping out into a few degrees of controllable slide, but take things a step further and the end result is understeer. The aggression it takes to provoke is, however, unlikely to be encountered on