We come to our first serious corner on Glendora Mountain Road, and the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Coupe delivers the unexpected. It turns into a tight left-hander with the haste and hunger of an import sport compact. Perhaps most surprising of all, it gives the impression of being happy to do it.
Instead of savoring the moment, we get back on the throttle. We hear the euphoric sigh of the turbocharger, followed by a throbbing exhaust note out the back. The sounds are distinct even to the distracted ear, and they refuse to harmonize. It's an old-school touch in a car full of new-school kit, and you realize there's quite a bit going on with the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS.
It's an odd feeling, because with that familiar Chevy face and Pro Stock-size rear wing, you wonder if you're getting behind the wheel of last year's car. But give this 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Coupe an hour of your time on a good road and it takes you somewhere completely different....
(http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/roadtest/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.coupe/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.act.f34.3.500.jpg)
Sharp reflexes and a neutral cornering attitude make the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Coupe addictive to drive on roads with tight turns.
(http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/roadtest/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.coupe/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.act.f34.2.500.jpg)
To minimize torque steer under hard acceleration, torque is limited based on gear selection and steering angle, similar to what Mazda does on the Mazdaspeed 3.
(http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//media/roadtests/roadtest/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.coupe/08.chevrolet.cobalt.ss.act.r34.1.500.jpg)
Heavy suspension modifications result in a Cobalt SS that's composed in any situation but never harsh-riding. This setup should be standard on all Cobalts.
More pictures and the rest of the article:
http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/vdp/articleId=125288/pageNumber=1#5
I'm really beginning to like this car. I liked the SS/SC; I thought it was a powerful, muscle-caresque alternative to the Honda Civic Si. Less polished and slightly less fun to drive, but punchy and enjoyable. Turns out this car is set to be a real performance car. I'd like to see what the detractors have to say about it now.
The SS/SC is a great car. This car sounds even better. I can't wait to drive it.
Quote from: HEMI666 on March 27, 2008, 02:26:42 PM
The SS/SC is a great car. This car sounds even better. I can't wait to drive it.
I'm definitely going to give it a shot as soon as it hits theaters. I really want to like this even more than I like the CSi.
I'm not sure I'll like the way the sedan looks, but if they ditch the big spoiler I'd be all over it. And that blue is very attractive.
Quote from: Raza link=topic=14030.msg787510#msg787510 date=1206649789
I'm definitely going to give it a shot as soon as it hits theaters. I really want to like this even more than I like the CSi.
I'm not sure I'll like the way the sedan looks, but if they ditch the big spoiler I'd be all over it. And that blue is very attractive.
The smaller spoiler was available on the last SS/SC so I don't see why it wouldn't be on this one. I only like the big spoiler because the top of the line car is the only one that gets it, and the smaller one makes it look like you have the NA version, and that's what I like about the smaller wing...sleeper.
Quote from: HEMI666 on March 27, 2008, 02:38:19 PM
The smaller spoiler was available on the last SS/SC so I don't see why it wouldn't be on this one. I only like the big spoiler because the top of the line car is the only one that gets it, and the smaller one makes it look like you have the NA version, and that's what I like about the smaller wing...sleeper.
Rear visibility is kind of poor in the Cobalt from what I remember, so having a big spoiler eating up half the rear window isn't ideal for it.
And large spoilers are odd sometimes. In some cars, they make me feel very silly (like in the STI) and in some cars I don't care that they're there (Evo). I just get the feeling that I'd feel silly with this one.
I wish they'd have one without a spoiler. I wonder how much downforce the spoiler (or spoilers) actually create, or rather, how much lift it negates.
Quote from: Raza link=topic=14030.msg787516#msg787516 date=1206650781
Rear visibility is kind of poor in the Cobalt from what I remember, so having a big spoiler eating up half the rear window isn't ideal for it.
With the big spoiler, the rear visibility is kind of terrible.
Looks like a awesome car!
I bet the wing does more than you'd think.
Quote from: Champ on March 27, 2008, 03:04:36 PM
Looks like a awesome car!
I bet the wing does more than you'd think.
I bet they could have done the same with a diffuser like on the Clio 197.
Something tells me this car is far better than the POS LS model I drove last year.
Quote from: the Teuton on March 27, 2008, 03:46:08 PM
Something tells me this car is far better than the POS LS model I drove last year.
Bullshit. No way.
Not bad for a GM
Quote from: the Teuton on March 27, 2008, 03:46:08 PM
Something tells me this car is far better than the POS LS model I drove last year.
:rolleyes:
I wonder what that could be?
Quote from: the Teuton on March 27, 2008, 03:46:08 PM
Something tells me this car is far better than the POS LS model I drove last year.
It's not like it would take a lot to accomplish that...
Wow! I'm impressed about it's performance.
In terms of looks, the front end looks too conservative and dated. I like the rest though.
Oh, I'm not saying the front is ugly.....just old looking for an otherwise decent car.
Quote from: Lazerous on March 27, 2008, 08:55:37 PM
Wow! I'm impressed about it's performance.
In terms of looks, the front end looks too conservative and dated. I like the rest though.
Oh, I'm not saying the front is ugly.....just old looking for an otherwise decent car.
How can it be conservative and dated? Conservative designs are generally timeless. Radical designs, like Cadillac's Art and Science become dated very quickly.
Quote from: Raza on March 27, 2008, 09:50:09 PM
How can it be conservative and dated? Conservative designs are generally timeless. Radical designs, like Cadillac's Art and Science become dated very quickly.
Which is where the last part of my post comes into play. I'm not saying it's ugly, it just doesn't flow with the rest of the car which appears to have a fresh new-school design.
Quote from: Lazerous on March 27, 2008, 09:52:08 PM
Which is where the last part of my post comes into play. I'm not saying it's ugly, it just doesn't flow with the rest of the car which appears to have a fresh new-school design.
I don't see it. :huh: :nutty:
But then again you have an Accord coupe and a Camaro. I shouldn't be asking you what cars look good. ;)
Quote from: Raza on March 27, 2008, 10:05:30 PM
I don't see it. :huh: :nutty:
But then again you have an Accord coupe and a Camaro. I shouldn't be asking you what cars look good. ;)
Camaro's look great. ;)
Quote from: Raza on March 27, 2008, 10:05:30 PM
I don't see it. :huh: :nutty:
But then again you have an Accord coupe and a Camaro. I shouldn't be asking you what cars look good. ;)
...
Really? I mean you actually felt like you had to go that low?
Oh, and I never said the car looked bad. Simply that the front end doesn't match with the design of the rest of the car.
Quote from: Lazerous on March 27, 2008, 10:09:46 PM
...
Really? I mean you actually felt like you had to go that low?
Oh, and I never said the car looked bad. Simply that the front end doesn't match with the design of the rest of the car.
I had three smileys. I guess you know to disregard them when I'm just trying sound like I'm not being mean.
:tounge:
I'd rock one in black with a spoiler delete.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on March 27, 2008, 10:21:47 PM
I'd rock one in black with a spoiler delete.
I like the idea of having a cobalt blue Cobalt. It would just be so damn literal!
Quote from: sandertheshark on March 27, 2008, 10:24:42 PM
I like the idea of having a cobalt blue Cobalt. It would just be so damn literal!
ehh...I'd rock most good cars in black.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on March 27, 2008, 10:33:25 PM
ehh...I'd rock most good cars in black.
Is rocking a car similar to stoning it?
Why would you want to do that?
Quote from: thecarnut on March 27, 2008, 10:34:26 PM
Is rocking a car similar to stoning it?
Why would you want to do that?
No, it means that you would own it.
Quote from: sandertheshark on March 27, 2008, 10:24:42 PM
I like the idea of having a cobalt blue Cobalt. It would just be so damn literal!
I really like that color. Plus, I already have a black car.
Quote from: thecarnut on March 27, 2008, 10:34:26 PM
Is rocking a car similar to stoning it?
Why would you want to do that?
It means I'd drive one.
Quote from: Raza on March 27, 2008, 10:11:45 PM
Yeah, the 1969 did!
The 95 is a damn fine beast.
:lol:
Quote from: Raza on March 27, 2008, 10:12:21 PM
I had three smileys. I guess you know to disregard them when I'm just trying sound like I'm not being mean.
:tounge:
Two of which were demeaning and the other one was a creepy wink.
You know I love you Raza. :wub:
Quote from: sandertheshark on March 27, 2008, 10:24:42 PM
I like the idea of having a cobalt blue Cobalt. It would just be so damn literal!
Well, that does work better than it would with a Neon...
I like the look of this car. They should send it over here as a 'halo' model for Chevrolet, even if it did compete a bit with the Astra VXR.
Sounds like a fun car, especially for the price.
Quote from: TheIntrepid on March 27, 2008, 10:38:52 PM
It means I'd drive one.
I thought it meant you would do it up the tail pipe.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on March 27, 2008, 11:39:08 PM
Well, that does work better than it would with a Neon...
I'd love a neon day-glo pink neon.
Quote from: 2o6 on March 28, 2008, 10:29:36 AM
I'd love a neon day-glo pink neon.
Your car is here:
(http://serendipitously.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/dodpi.jpg)
(http://www.ridejudge.com/rides2/11478.jpg)
Quote from: 2o6 on March 28, 2008, 10:29:36 AM
I'd love a neon day-glo pink neon.
The problem I'm facing right now, is I have no idea if you are joking or not.
Quote from: HEMI666 on March 28, 2008, 10:33:26 AM
The problem I'm facing right now, is I have no idea if you are joking or not.
There is no way that he is joking.
And I'd like a black Black Label Bentley Arnage.
Quote from: the Teuton on March 28, 2008, 01:55:53 PM
And I'd like a black Black Label Bentley Arnage.
Too bad. You get a lime green Green Label.
Quote from: Raza on March 28, 2008, 01:59:13 PM
Too bad. You get a lime green Green Label.
:cry:
I can live with an underpowered Bentley. :cry:
I just forgot: I don't think I will ever own a green car. I cannot accept this green car. :cry: :cry: :cry: :partyon: <-----(drinking out of depression)
.......Yes I was joking.
But to be contrary, I would OWN (Not necessarily a DD) a supercar or some sort of really fast car in an unlikely color, possibly pink.
Quote from: 2o6 on March 28, 2008, 02:10:15 PM
.......Yes I was joking.
But to be contrary, I would OWN (Not necessarily a DD) a supercar or some sort of really fast car in an unlikely color, possibly pink.
(http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/8207/colourwy1.jpg)
(http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/9040/colour2pi0.jpg)
(http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/cil/100202.jpg)
I'll take that aqua & orange Commodore.
Quote from: hotrodalex on March 29, 2008, 10:13:58 AM
I'll take that aqua & orange Commodore.
FPV (Ford Performance Vehicles) GT, actually. The stormclouds of Ford are forming above your head!
Quote from: omicron on March 30, 2008, 09:45:42 AM
FPV (Ford Performance Vehicles) GT, actually. The stormclouds of Ford are forming above your head!
I love the FPV GT. I want one so bad it hurts.
Quote from: HEMI666 on March 30, 2008, 10:30:27 AM
I love the FPV GT. I want one so bad it hurts.
I applaud whomever decided to apply the sticker package to the V8 range - the side-stripes and bonnet decals hint at the wonderful muscle cars of old.
The 5.4 V8 soundtrack is just delightful, too.
Anyway, returning from the land down under...
Do you think this car has a serious chance at stealing sales from the Civic Si and GTI? It seems far more convincing than the Caliber SRT. I don't think I've ever seen one of them.
Quote from: Raza link=topic=14030.msg790616#msg790616 date=1206899192
Anyway, returning from the land down under...
Do you think this car has a serious chance at stealing sales from the Civic Si and GTI? It seems far more convincing than the Caliber SRT. I don't think I've ever seen one of them.
Realistically, I doubt it. It is nice though but I think in the looks department the Civic Coupe is nicer looking on the outside.
Quote from: Catman on March 30, 2008, 11:58:15 AM
Realistically, I doubt it. It is nice though but I think in the looks department the Civic Coupe is nicer looking on the outside.
The GTI has it on practicality, so if that's the main concern it doesn't have a chance.
But I think it looks better than the Civic Si, it's significantly faster, has a more conventional interior, is cheaper, and has comparable fuel efficiency and likely cheaper insurance. If people can get over brand bias (and that is the big if) then it shouldn't have a problem unless it's not as sharp as the CSi, which is a distinct possibility. But then again, most people are happy with a car that isn't all that sharp as long as it's fast. Advertising the Cobalt SS directly against the CSi would help to put it in people's minds, since Honda isn't going to say "Hey, that Cobalt SS looks pretty good" to customers.
Can you think of any other direct competitors?
Quote from: Raza link=topic=14030.msg790642#msg790642 date=1206900137
The GTI has it on practicality, so if that's the main concern it doesn't have a chance.
But I think it looks better than the Civic Si, it's significantly faster, has a more conventional interior, is cheaper, and has comparable fuel efficiency and likely cheaper insurance. If people can get over brand bias (and that is the big if) then it shouldn't have a problem unless it's not as sharp as the CSi, which is a distinct possibility. But then again, most people are happy with a car that isn't all that sharp as long as it's fast. Advertising the Cobalt SS directly against the CSi would help to put it in people's minds, since Honda isn't going to say "Hey, that Cobalt SS looks pretty good" to customers.
Can you think of any other direct competitors?
Mazda 3. The GTI seems a little more upscale, isn't it more money?
Quote from: Catman on March 30, 2008, 12:09:14 PM
Mazda 3. The GTI seems a little more upscale, isn't it more money?
A base level GTI is 23K or so. One with the Autobahn pack is 25 and change (very desirable package). A CSi is 22-23 loaded (not a lot of options). The Mazdaspeed3 is 23-24.
But the GTI and MS3 are both hatches. The CSi is the only sport coupe/sedan that competes directly, it seems.
Quote from: Catman on March 30, 2008, 12:09:14 PM
Mazda 3. The GTI seems a little more upscale, isn't it more money?
The GTI is priced about even with the MS3. Starting price is like a grand or so higher than the Cobalt SS
Others that might get compared that I can think of would be Mini Cooper S and Sentra SE-R. The SS should have no trouble trouncing the SE-R and should be quicker than the Mini in a straight line.
A friend of mine had a Golf. It was pretty roomy, even in the cargo area. I think I'd go with the VW or the Mazdaspeed.
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2008, 12:12:41 PM
The GTI is priced about even with the MS3. Starting price is like a grand or so higher than the Cobalt SS
Others that might get compared that I can think of would be Mini Cooper S and Sentra SE-R. The SS should have no trouble trouncing the SE-R and should be quicker than the Mini in a straight line.
I forgot about the Sentra SE-R.
Oh, are they still making the Tiburon now that the Genesis coupe is coming out?
Quote from: Catman on March 30, 2008, 12:14:47 PM
A friend of mine had a Golf. It was pretty roomy, even in the cargo area. I think I'd go with the VW or the Mazdaspeed.
Jeremy Clarkson fits in the back of a new one.
Quote from: Raza on March 30, 2008, 12:46:30 PM
Jeremy Clarkson fits in the back of a new one.
I'm pretty sure I could make Jeremy Clarkson fit in my freezer with room for a bucket of ice cream.
Quote from: Raza on March 30, 2008, 12:46:12 PM
I forgot about the Sentra SE-R.
Oh, are they still making the Tiburon now that the Genesis coupe is coming out?
Genesis coupe is a 2010 model, IIRC. So I image the Tiburon would stick around for a while.
Quote from: Raza on March 30, 2008, 12:46:12 PM
I forgot about the Sentra SE-R.
Oh, are they still making the Tiburon now that the Genesis coupe is coming out?
According to what I've read in the press, the Genesis is not intended to replace the Tib and the two will be sold side-by-side with the Tib slotted beneath the Genesis as a FWD coupe entry.
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2008, 02:49:45 PM
According to what I've read in the press, the Genesis is not intended to replace the Tib and the two will be sold side-by-side with the Tib slotted beneath the Genesis as a FWD coupe entry.
Hope they redesign it before too long then.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 03:11:37 PM
Hope they redesign it before too long then.
Yeah, they look pretty similar. I don't see a reason to buy the Tib if they offer the G Coupe too.
Quote from: hotrodalex on March 30, 2008, 03:22:45 PM
Yeah, they look pretty similar. I don't see a reason to buy the Tib if they offer the G Coupe too.
I don't mean that they'll be stepping on each other's toes, as the Genesis will be larger and more expensive despite any similarities in appearance. It's just that the Tiburon is in need of serious improvement. It's still got no headroom and a 170-hp V6, while it really just needs to be a sleeker, sportier Elantra to be a hit with the Civic/tC/Cobalt crowd.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 03:11:37 PM
Hope they redesign it before too long then.
It's about due, assuming Hyundai sticks to a 6-7 year cycle. The current iteration appeared in I think the '03 model year. It's already had its mid-cycle facelift (not a particularly successful one, IMO, the car looked stunning before they messed with it). I personally would expect an all new Tib for 2010, though it might get delayed a year if they put too many of their development dollars into the Genesis siblings.
Quote from: hotrodalex on March 30, 2008, 03:22:45 PM
Yeah, they look pretty similar. I don't see a reason to buy the Tib if they offer the G Coupe too.
The base Tib starts at like $16K. The base Genesis will likely start at $20K, maybe a little higher. The only price crossover you'll see is that a loaded V6 Tib will overlap a bit with the 4 cylinder Genesis in the low $20Ks. There's also the possibility that Hyundai will push the Tib a bit down market to ensure there's practically no price overlap. I wouldn't be too surprised to see them drop the V6 and replace the 2.0L 4 banger with a more potent 2.4L from the Sonata.
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2008, 03:43:59 PM
The base Tib starts at like $16K. The base Genesis will likely start at $20K, maybe a little higher. The only price crossover you'll see is that a loaded V6 Tib will overlap a bit with the 4 cylinder Genesis in the low $20Ks. There's also the possibility that Hyundai will push the Tib a bit down market to ensure there's practically no price overlap. I wouldn't be too surprised to see them drop the V6 and replace the 2.0L 4 banger with a more potent 2.4L from the Sonata.
That would make sense.
My concern is that they'll just look at declining sales of their 2003 design on what I believe is a 1999 platform, and decide it's not worth it to redesign this important youth-market car.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 03:45:53 PM
That would make sense.
My concern is that they'll just look at declining sales of their 2003 design on what I believe is a 1999 platform, and decide it's not worth it to redesign this important youth-market car.
Hey Iffy, would you ever consider a Genesis?
Quote from: CALL_911 on March 30, 2008, 03:49:24 PM
Hey Iffy, would you ever consider a Genesis?
For myself? No. But that's nothing against the Genesis, because I'd never consider its competitors either.
Why?
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 04:06:50 PM
For myself? No. But that's nothing against the Genesis, because I'd never consider its competitors either.
Why?
Just asking. What's the most exciting car you want to own?
Quote from: CALL_911 on March 30, 2008, 04:08:14 PM
Just asking. What's the most exciting car you want to own?
I'll see what's on the market when I retire.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 04:09:59 PM
I'll see what's on the market when I retire.
Sounds good. Iffy, I just know that you aspire to own an Ariel Atom.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 03:45:53 PM
That would make sense.
My concern is that they'll just look at declining sales of their 2003 design on what I believe is a 1999 platform, and decide it's not worth it to redesign this important youth-market car.
The Tib was new from the ground up for '03. The '00-'02 MY Tibs were simply facelifts of the '96-'99 model and were still riding on that old mid 90s platform.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 03:29:32 PM
I don't mean that they'll be stepping on each other's toes, as the Genesis will be larger and more expensive despite any similarities in appearance. It's just that the Tiburon is in need of serious improvement. It's still got no headroom and a 170-hp V6, while it really just needs to be a sleeker, sportier Elantra to be a hit with the Civic/tC/Cobalt crowd.
I have a feeling the FWD tiburon will be axed, and the FWD Kia Coup (Concept) will replace it.
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2008, 04:14:18 PM
The Tib was new from the ground up for '03. The '00-'02 MY Tibs were simply facelifts of the '96-'99 model and were still riding on that old mid 90s platform.
It was new from the ground up for a Tiburon, but it wasn't on an exclusive platform. It was either the 99 Sonata or the 01 Elantra, IIRC.
Quote from: ifcar on March 30, 2008, 06:22:56 PM
It was new from the ground up for a Tiburon, but it wasn't on an exclusive platform. It was either the 99 Sonata or the 01 Elantra, IIRC.
I believe the platform is related to the Elantra. There was no 2002 Tib, the '03 model debuted as an early '03 in '02. If it were Sonata based, I think you would have seen a new Tib in '00 or '01. With the Elantra being all new for '01, that gives them a year or so to come up with a new coupe based on that platform, which makes sense.
These cars have very poor interiors. That seems to be about the only thing left now.
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2008, 07:48:06 PM
I believe the platform is related to the Elantra. There was no 2002 Tib, the '03 model debuted as an early '03 in '02. If it were Sonata based, I think you would have seen a new Tib in '00 or '01. With the Elantra being all new for '01, that gives them a year or so to come up with a new coupe based on that platform, which makes sense.
I do now think it was Elantra-based (but when it was introduced has more to do with its own model cycles than the Sonata's). So it dates to 2001.
Quote from: LonghornTX on March 30, 2008, 10:50:17 PM
These cars have very poor interiors. That seems to be about the only thing left now.
Which cars? The Tiburon or the Cobalt or the whole segment?
I'm not a huge fan of the Cobalt's interior, but I'd still say it's better than any Hyundai's under $14,000.
Quote from: the Teuton on March 31, 2008, 12:56:35 PM
I'm not a huge fan of the Cobalt's interior, but I'd still say it's better than any Hyundai's under $14,000.
I was quite impressed with the Cobalt SS's interior. It's very nice.
It's OK, but it's definitely a step down from the 3 or the Civic material wise. At least it isn't ugly. Conservative, but that's not a bad thing.
Quote from: FordSVT on April 01, 2008, 07:09:39 AM
It's OK, but it's definitely a step down from the 3 or the Civic material wise. At least it isn't ugly. Conservative, but that's not a bad thing.
The conventional design is probably more attractive to many buyers, including me. Also, I don't think the Mazda's hard plastics are much better than the Cobalt's.
Quote from: Raza on April 02, 2008, 09:26:26 AM
The conventional design is probably more attractive to many buyers, including me. Also, I don't think the Mazda's hard plastics are much better than the Cobalt's.
You're wrong. Different grade, different feel. The Cobalt has that "hollow" sound when you tap the plastic on the dash or console, not so with the 3. Also, the switch gear isn't as nice, and the fabric inserts on the doors and the other small touches, as well as the way the seams on the plastic show up in the Cobalt are all things I notice now as a 3 owner. And the fabric on the seats of the 3 is better than the cheap stuff they use in the Cobalt too.
Don't get me wrong, the Cobalt is worlds better than, say, the Caliber.
Quote from: FordSVT on April 02, 2008, 12:44:36 PM
You're wrong. Different grade, different feel. The Cobalt has that "hollow" sound when you tap the plastic on the dash or console, not so with the 3. Also, the switch gear isn't as nice, and the fabric inserts on the doors and the other small touches, as well as the way the seams on the plastic show up in the Cobalt are all things I notice now as a 3 owner. And the fabric on the seats of the 3 is better than the cheap stuff they use in the Cobalt too.
Don't get me wrong, the Cobalt is worlds better than, say, the Caliber.
I'll have to sit in the two again, but I remember not being impressed by either.
Quote from: Raza on April 02, 2008, 12:46:22 PM
I'll have to sit in the two again, but I remember not being impressed by either.
Compared to what, a Lexus? They're economy cars, but I think the 3 has an interior almost as nice or even nicer than a lot of mid sizers. The Altima for one.
Quote from: FordSVT on April 02, 2008, 05:30:00 PM
Compared to what, a Lexus? They're economy cars, but I think the 3 has an interior almost as nice or even nicer than a lot of mid sizers. The Altima for one.
I can't think of any Nissans I'd give an award to for interiors.
But the Mazda3 competes against the Rabbit.
And the Rabbit's interior is only marginally "better" than the Mazdas. And, to be honest, I'm so over VW/Audi interiors it's not funny. Great materials, boring as plain toast.
Quote from: FordSVT on April 03, 2008, 02:29:29 PM
And the Rabbit's interior is only marginally "better" than the Mazdas. And, to be honest, I'm so over VW/Audi interiors it's not funny. Great materials, boring as plain toast.
That's as may be, but the interior materials and fit and finish are miles ahead of the Mazda's.
Quote from: FordSVT on April 03, 2008, 02:29:29 PM
And the Rabbit's interior is only marginally "better" than the Mazdas. And, to be honest, I'm so over VW/Audi interiors it's not funny. Great materials, boring as plain toast.
Give me well-made over glitzy any day.
But the Mazda's is well made, at least as well as a Honda Civic for example.
I'd also mention that that every VW I've ever ridden in that was older than five years had too many rattles to count. They seem to leave the factory in fine shape, then rattle to pieces and catch on fire as they age. I would probably never buy a VW. I know people who buy them love them and buy more, but I know a lot of people who own them and have problems with them (like my brother) and simply excuse them as "minor". VW owners always say "They're very reliable", yet all data for the past 10-15 years says it's simply not true on the whole. Having to leave your car at the dealer for four days because your car won't start and they don't know why isn't minor, IMO.
What do VWs that don't start have to to do with their interiors?
FYI, many Hondas rattle after a few years too, just ask Cougs or Rag. (mine is older, so it doesn't count).
Quote from: FordSVT on April 04, 2008, 07:55:38 AM
But the Mazda's is well made, at least as well as a Honda Civic for example.
I'd also mention that that every VW I've ever ridden in that was older than five years had too many rattles to count. They seem to leave the factory in fine shape, then rattle to pieces and catch on fire as they age. I would probably never buy a VW. I know people who buy them love them and buy more, but I know a lot of people who own them and have problems with them (like my brother) and simply excuse them as "minor". VW owners always say "They're very reliable", yet all data for the past 10-15 years says it's simply not true on the whole. Having to leave your car at the dealer for four days because your car won't start and they don't know why isn't minor, IMO.
Four years, forty thousand hard miles, a few flights, some offroad excursions, and my interior is still plenty solid.
Quote from: Raza on April 02, 2008, 11:21:38 PM
I can't think of any Nissans I'd give an award to for interiors.
Infiniti M.
And I wouldn't call it award-winning, either, but the Sentra has my favorite interior in its class.
Quote from: Vinsanity on April 04, 2008, 11:01:49 AM
Infiniti M.
And I wouldn't call it award-winning, either, but the Sentra has my favorite interior in its class.
I was talking specifically about Nissan branded cars, but not having been in an Infiniti M, I can't speak on quality and fit and finish, but it looks like a mess. And who can read that clock? Although, like I said, I'd have to sit down and do the ET prod to be sure.
It may be just me, but it seems like the new Cobalt SS is what the SRT-4 Neon was when it first came out. Or rather, it's what the SRT-4 Caliber should've been.
Last time I had my car serviced, I had the pleasure of sitting in the waiting room with a regular Jetta owner jamboree. 3 woman (two college aged, one middle aged) with Jettas in the shop. One was in for a "60K mile service" (how quaint, my car requires nothing more than oil changes for the first 100K+) and the other two were in for problems. One had an issue with her power windows, and this was not the first time she'd been in to address it. Apparently she'd been in a few weeks prior because the window came unglued from the mechanism and stopped working. I was sitting there when the guy from the service dept then informed her that this time it was because the window regulator (the mechanism itself, which is metal) was bent and needed to be replaced. I don't know what the other woman's problem was, but it was also door or window related, since I heard her comment that her door was all apart when she glanced into the shop to see how things were going.
I had 3 relatives with Jettas. Two had Mk IIIs (I think both were '98 models) and one MkIV. One of the MkIIIs was a salvage car that had been in a flood, so I can dismiss some minor issues. The other MkIII had a few problems, including needing to have the entire exhaust replaced sometime in '01 because it had rotted. The car was maybe 4 years old, which is unacceptable by my book. My cousin with the MkIV got rid of it when it was only 4 years old because she was fed up with all of the niggling little problems.
Quote from: Schadenfreude on April 04, 2008, 04:42:44 PM
It may be just me, but it seems like the new Cobalt SS is what the SRT-4 Neon was when it first came out. Or rather, it's what the SRT-4 Caliber should've been.
Unless it's a drastic departure from the SS S/C, the new SS will be much more comfortable day-to-day than the Neon SRT-4.
Quote from: MX793 on April 04, 2008, 04:43:50 PM
Last time I had my car serviced, I had the pleasure of sitting in the waiting room with a regular Jetta owner jamboree. 3 woman (two college aged, one middle aged) with Jettas in the shop. One was in for a "60K mile service" (how quaint, my car requires nothing more than oil changes for the first 100K+) and the other two were in for problems. One had an issue with her power windows, and this was not the first time she'd been in to address it. Apparently she'd been in a few weeks prior because the window came unglued from the mechanism and stopped working. I was sitting there when the guy from the service dept then informed her that this time it was because the window regulator (the mechanism itself, which is metal) was bent and needed to be replaced. I don't know what the other woman's problem was, but it was also door or window related, since I heard her comment that her door was all apart when she glanced into the shop to see how things were going.
You were at a service department in a dealership. What did you think they would be there for, complimentary chocolates?
Quote from: Raza on April 04, 2008, 06:10:16 PM
You were at a service department in a dealership. What did you think they would be there for, complimentary chocolates?
If it was a BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus dealer, they might just be there for the free stuff. :lol:
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 04, 2008, 06:18:01 PM
If it was a BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus dealer, they might just be there for the free stuff. :lol:
I've been in for service at three different Mercedes dealers two dozen times. The most I've ever gotten was a free cup of coffee.
Quote from: Raza on April 04, 2008, 06:20:50 PM
I've been in for service at three different Mercedes dealers two dozen times. The most I've ever gotten was a free cup of coffee.
Your dealerships suck then. :tounge:
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 04, 2008, 06:28:28 PM
Your dealerships suck then. :tounge:
We did get hats and keychains once, but we were buying an $80+k car, so they could absorb the forty bucks.
I get free coffee at my Volkswagen dealer as well, by the way.
Quote from: Raza on April 04, 2008, 06:30:58 PM
We did get hats and keychains once, but we were buying an $80+k car, so they could absorb the forty bucks.
I get free coffee at my Volkswagen dealer as well, by the way.
I get cookies and assorted treats at my BMW dealer, the Mercedes dealer usually has coffee and donuts (or something like that), same with the Lexus dealer. The Lexus dealer also has free massage day every month or so.
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 04, 2008, 06:33:31 PM
I get cookies and assorted treats at my BMW dealer, the Mercedes dealer usually has coffee and donuts (or something like that), same with the Lexus dealer. The Lexus dealer also has free massage day every month or so.
You're right then, my dealerships do suck.
Quote from: hotrodalex on April 04, 2008, 06:33:31 PM
I get cookies and assorted treats at my BMW dealer, the Mercedes dealer usually has coffee and donuts (or something like that), same with the Lexus dealer. The Lexus dealer also has free massage day every month or so.
Coffee, donuts, cookies at my
Honda dealership. Yeah, that's right. However... NO massages though. Kinda glad too. I get images of some greasemonkey from the back performing it and all. :mask:
Quote from: Raza link=topic=14030.msg796882#msg796882 date=1207354850
I've been in for service at three different Mercedes dealers two dozen times. The most I've ever gotten was a free cup of coffee.
Most Mercedes dealerships suck, the majority of them don't even have loaner cars let alone complimentary ones.
I get handjobs from the high school girl working the front desk at my dealership......needless to say i have all my work done at the dealer.
Ohh and i get free icecream too.
Quote from: Northlands on April 04, 2008, 07:51:43 PM
Coffee, donuts, cookies at my Honda dealership. Yeah, that's right. However... NO massages though. Kinda glad too. I get images of some greasemonkey from the back performing it and all. :mask:
Just coffee at my local dealership... Oh well, that's fine. They have soda for $.75 so I don't mind.
Quote from: FlatBlackCaddy on April 04, 2008, 07:58:56 PM
I get handjobs from the high school girl working the front desk at my dealership......needless to say i have all my work done at the dealer.
Ohh and i get free icecream too.
So that's how Hyundai plans on selling cars for $40,000.
genius!
Quote from: JYODER240 on April 04, 2008, 07:57:17 PM
Most Mercedes dealerships suck, the majority of them don't even have loaner cars let alone complimentary ones.
I got free loaners, that was never an issue. But on those days when I couldn't schedule ahead, the waiting room had some decently comfortable couches (my VW dealer has horrid chairs, so I wait in a car) and CNN on the TV, along with the coffee.
Quote from: Northlands on April 04, 2008, 07:51:43 PM
Coffee, donuts, cookies at my Honda dealership. Yeah, that's right. However... NO massages though. Kinda glad too. I get images of some greasemonkey from the back performing it and all. :mask:
My Honda dealership has coffee, some snack type food, and wifi.