2012 Volvo C70

Posted on May 10, 2012 by drivermom

The moment I slid behind the wheel of the Volvo C70 retractable hardtop…I stopped in my tracks….’oh my goodness’, reaching for the ignition…..the switch looks like a stove knob.  I turned it…click…click…click…engine ignited…even starts like a stove.  If that doesn’t speak to a Mom who loves to cook, what does?  And from there it only gets better.

The interior on this car is lustrous.  The waterfall center stack lends a modern elegance to the interior space, despite critiques that the navigation and audio controls are confusing.  Rich sounding and warm, the high performance stereo pipes music through its eight speakers clear and pure.  And most notably, the baseball stitched Sovereign hide leather seats are so comfortable, to quote a dear friend, “you could ride around naked.”

In performance, reviews have been fair.  Surely its 2.5L, I-5 engine is not head of the pack in 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, but for power to weight ratio, this car is well proportioned.  It rides beautifully. There’s no other way to say it.

The words ‘retractable hardtop’ and ‘baby’ rarely end up together in a Google Search.  With my daughter in a rear facing carseat, driving with the top down wasn’t on my priority list.  Not to mention that the trunk space disappears.   With the top up, trunk space is still compromised, but better than other retractable hardtops I’ve seen.  Also, bringing a child and carseat into the picture is always accomplished more smoothly in a four door vehicle.   That being said, this coupe has the most backsesat space I’ve seen so far in a retractable hardtop.  And the carseat installation was breeze.  Latches are well positioned and easy to use.

Smooth, solid, and comfortable.  Combining safe with a hint of sexy. Hard to beat for a Mom.  Out cruising on a Saturday morning, enveloped in those seats, listening to my own private Billy Joel concert, my stress melted away.

Some Basics
MSRP: $39,411-$42,812
Engine: 2.5L I-5
hp/torque: 227hp / 236 ft-lbs.
drivetrain: FWD
Fuel Economy: 18 city/28 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating:  Good.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
safe, comfortable, smooth

What’s the best thing about it?
gorgeous interior

What’s the biggest drawback?
retractable hardtop limits trunk space

Mom-friendliness score: B+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Yes, Volvos can be sexy.”


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2012 Infiniti FX 50 S

Posted on May 4, 2012 by drivermom

Nothing inspires conversion to an SUV like becoming a parent.  Before parenthood, my attitude towards the Infiniti FX was….well if I HAD to own an SUV, this would be a good choice.  Now as a parent, my new outlook is…..I’d LOVE to own one of these – as soon as my daughter is out of a car seat.

For those who appreciate driving dynamics, this car is a winner.  Powerful, superior road handling and aggressive, the FX 50S gets it done.  Although I must admit, ….sitting behind the wheel peering out over the muscular hood curves, I’m a bit intimidated by its masculine vibe.  And when I stepped on the gas to accelerate, it’s baritone rumble sang with authority, “this dude ain’t no lady.”  Also at the wheel, the FX offers the Infiniti gauge cluster and top notch electronics.  It’s a guy’s gadget car that’s for sure.

My biggest drawback is the interior cabin space.  It’s pretty compact when bringing a rear-facing carseat into the picture.   I had to push the front seat way up in order to accommodate the carseat handle in the driving position.  So not much room for someone in the front seat who has legs.  My 19 month old daughter couldn’t even extend her legs fully in the carseat, so overall it’s pretty cramped back there.  It also took me a while to find the latches.  After groping for five minutes in the usual location I discovered them encased in vertical slits in the seat cushions.  Latching in the carseat base went smoothly. Unlatching the base to get it out, I struggled and cut my finger.

Cargo space is adequate.  It appears that more cabin room was devoted to the hatch area than the backseat.  Not too much room for people, but probably enough space for a modest trip to Costco.

For those who appreciate high performance, well engineered design of the SUV variety, the Infinti FX 50S is a sure bet.  While it can be done with a baby under two, it wouldn’t be my first choice.   But when the time is right……this car ranks high on my desired list.

Some Basics
MSRP: $59,800
Engine: 5.0L V.8
hp/torque:  390hp / 369 lb-ft.
drivetrain: AWD
Fuel Economy:  14 city/ 20 hwy
IIHS Safety Rating: Good.

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
bold, athletic, fast

What’s the best thing about it?
the driving experience

What’s the biggest drawback?
small interior cabin 

Mom-friendliness score: B-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Watch out!”

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2012 Subaru Legacy Sedan

Posted on April 27, 2012 by drivermom

When the 2012 Subaru Legacy pulled into our driveway last week, a proud parental feeling welled up inside. As owners of a 2011 Subaru Forester, I felt a kind of nepotism, “must write exceptional review about this family member vehicle.”

Well, fate had other plans.  The first foul-up was that I locked the keys in the car. I won’t go into details, but let’s just say, not my finest hour.  The good news is that I did actually get to drive the car. The unfortunate part is that the car became inaccessible due to my own stupidity before I really had the chance to study it. (The press fleet has extra keys and could not abate my rescue in time.)
Then in an effort to complete my due diligence, I asked my overworked husband to kindly forward the Subaru media website to me so I could research the car, read the press release, really prepare for this groundbreaking piece I was about to write.   Here is where the real trouble started. Whatever link he sent me was evidently corrupted, infected or damaged.  Such corruption, infection and/or damage was then inflicted upon my iMac….. bringing my ambitious journalistic efforts to an abrupt halt.  Forty-nine dollars and twenty-four hours later, my iMac has been restored to its humble functioning.  However I am a bit gun-shy about approaching this Subaru website link ever again. I’ve been assured it’s fine…..but far to traumatized to jump back on the internet horse. Thus my research is left undone….bringing back memories of college…another delve into psychology better left for another session)

So my review of the Subaru Legacy sedan is as follows…there is much more to this car than meets the eye.  I went out for an errand on a rainy, dreary New England Monday morning and this car cheered me up.  The version I drove was the 3.6L 6-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission.  A more pricey, loaded version to the basic 2.5 L, CVT transmission which has not received high accolades in the driving department with its heavy, road-gripping feeling.  While the exterior styling looks very sedan vanilla, to me the driving was anything but.  The 3.6R was sporty, aggressive, and had solid brakes.  And as a New Englander, the all wheel drive capability on this car gets bonus points.  With Don Henley’s “End of the Innocence” resounding warmly through the Harman Kardon speakers, I enjoyed my brief, playful visit with this very sporty sedan.

For baby carrying, the interior is fantastic.  Lots of space.  However, one interior feature calling for further investigation was the back seats.  They’re positioned at an angle, resembling a bucket-seat look….which concerned me when installing a rear facing car seat.  It looked like there’d be trouble resting the carseat flat and sturdy.  However, the latches looked well positioned and easily accessible, much like the Forester.  And Subarus are known for their safety.

So the 2012 Subaru Legacy does receive high marks in my book.  But as is often the case, ‘family’ visits can be stressful.

Some Basics on the 3.6R
MSRP:  $25,095 – $31,595
Engine: flat 6 cyl. 3.6L
hp/torque: 256 hp / 247 ft-lbs.
drivetrain: AWD
Fuel Economy: 18 city / 25 hwy
IIHS Rating:  Good.  Top Safety Pick

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The 2012 Nissan Murano

Posted on April 24, 2012 by drivermom

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     It’s difficult to write on a subject about which one does not feel great fondness.  So, let’s be honest. I’ve never been a big fan of the Nissan Murano.  But after driving one for a week, I can appreciate this restyled edition.
     For 2012, the Nissan Murano gets an exterior makeover and a new transmission.  Let’s start with the cosmetics.   Still boasting smooth lines and curves but with a more artistic design, the new Murano is easier on the eyes.  The improved front end gets a new nose and the rear enhancements include a unique rear glass shape and dual chrome exhaust with chrome finishers.  And the most exciting news, it’s now available in a two door CrossCabriolet.  That’s right…..convertible Murano.  The world’s only convertible SUV.
     The improved interior “suite” as Nissan calls it, is roomy and comfortable.  Flat folding rear seats give the body ample room, ambient lighting and cupholders everywhere you turn.  My biggest interior gripe is the car seat LATCHES. Positioned too far back in the seat cushion and too close to the seat belt buckles, I held on to my fingers for dear life as I fought through the carseat installation.
     My other main disappointment was driving.  I’m spoiled by the sporty, agile driving offered by most Nissan vehicles.  The Murano gets an updated CVT transmission designed to provide better fuel economy.  But what the CVT transmission gains efficiency it loses in driving dynamics.  To me, the handling felt bulky and compromised.  But that’s ok…..with a baby on board….I don’t want too much play in my driving….I’d rather relax in the comfy leather seats and enjoy the rich sounding Bose sound system.
     Overall, not a bad vehicle.  It’s certainly a better looking, typical high-up SUV with sufficient cargo room for family and essentials.  Murano lovers will appreciate this new redesigned “more artsy” edition as they stop for that triple mocha latte and scone in the morning – and now with an option to put the top down…….summer’s coming.
Some Basics
MSRP: $29,540 – $44,540
Engine:  3.5 liter V6
hp/torque:  260/240 lb.
Drivetrain: FWD and AWD
Fuel Economy: 18 city/24 hwy
IIHS Rating:   Good

 

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
athletic, practical, safe

What’s the best thing about it?
restyled design

What’s the biggest drawback?
driving dynamics could be better

Mom-friendliness score: B+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I like sports.”

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The new 2012 Hyundai Equus

Posted on April 18, 2012 by drivermom

“Is that some kind of Maybach?”  I asked my husband after they delivered the new Hyundai Equus to our driveway. Stately in appearance, this all new luxury sedan elevates the Hyundai brand to a new level of class and sophistication. Driving the 8 cylinder 429 hp engine affords a smooth, powerful ride.  Nothing that blew my hair back, but still a solid competent car.

On the interior, no expense was spared.  Starting with the emobossed Equus logo in the front seat backrests, and the pleasant welcoming chime as you press the ignition button, this car proudly offers bells and whistles.  (i.e. the owner’s manual is an iPad) The Lexicon sound system, also found in a Rolls Royce, to me, wasn’t knock your socks off sound quality, but still well within the audiophile comfort zone.

The back seat might have more square footage than my first apartment.  Seriously it is roomy.  No problem for a rear facing car seat with a tall person riding shotgun.  And ample trunk space for stroller, gear and groceries. No time for car shopping?  Can’t find a babysitter?  No worries.  Another great perk offered by Hyundai is that if you’re considering this car, they’ll bring one right to your door so you can test drive.

Overall, the Hyundai Equus doesn’t exactly scream Mommi-ness, but for a daily Mom driver, this car accommodates and easily transports one around town in spacious luxury.

Some Basics
MSRP:  $58,000 – $64,500
MPG:  18 City / 28 Hwy
Engine:  4.6L V8
HP/Torque: 429 hp/376 lb
Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy: 15 city/23 hwy
IIHS Rating:  Good.  Top Safety Pick

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
limousine-like, luxurious, comfortable

What’s the best thing about it?
huge backseat

What’s the biggest drawback?
price

Mom-friendliness score: B+

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“Take me to Vegas!”




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Welcome to drivermom!

Posted on April 12, 2012 by drivermom

The all new 2012 Range Rover Evoque

     It’s rare for an SUV to earn the title of sexy, but the new Range Rover Evoque takes the name sexy and runs with it.  Design wise this car is a looker.  The sleek body and rear window give it a sophisticated and sporty elegance.   And the interior is lustrous.  The rich black leather seats exude an Aston Martin look, yet wrap you in the sporty comfort of your old baseball mitt.  
     The Evoque offers the Jaguar gauge cluster interface..technologically advanced but user friendly and …and the Meridien sound system is impressive.  When your kids are in high school and old enough to be out of a rear facing car seat, they can enjoy the DVD monitors built into the front seat headrests.  
     Driving however is where the awe ends.  I was disappointed that the 4 cylinder turbo charged engine didn’t have much get up and go.  It was like the car needed a Starbucks to get moving.  For just getting around town, it’s not bad…an upscale Mom-mobile…sure makes going to Whole Foods a more luxurious errand.  But don’t plan on buying too many groceries AND carting around the stroller…the luggage room is smaller than expected…a far departure from the typical Range Rover cargo area.
     Overall, a beautiful, design winner vehicle.  Won’t break any 0 to 60 records or save any money at the gas pump, but driving in style makes the Evoque well worth it.
Some Basics
MSRP:   $41,145 – $44,145
MPG:  18 City / 28 Hwy
Engine:  Turbocharged I4 2.0L
HP/Torque: 240 hp/ 250 ft.-lb.
Drivetrain:  All Wheel Drive
IIHS Rating: not yet rated

drivermom summary
Three words to describe this car
sexy, luxurious, sporty

What’s the best thing about it?
beautiful design 

What’s the biggest drawback?
limited cargo area 

 Mom-friendliness score: A-

If this car could talk, what would it say?
“I got all the family’s good looks.”
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