Car Clips/Industry News - 10/5/00 by Bob Storck
The Paris auto show was in some ways more important for what wasn't shown than what was. Often in the past European shows have been an opportunity for stylists to exercise their flights of fancy, but a sobering economy and attitudes turning toward safety have seemed to tempered the design directions. Sure, Porsche and Ferrari showed us mega-moneyed limited production wish wagons, but BMW and Mercedes displayed surprisingly restrained mass market machines. As highlighted last week the Mini will be reborn with a Teutonic flavor, far better than the original, and still surprisingly affordable. It will be sold through 60 special BMW dealers as a separate franchise, and will start about $17K. Mercedes can't quite decide how to pitch the C-coupe, and is mightily resisting calling it an economical offering, and is avoiding referring to its hatchback, but it is bound to be popular here. The captive Scandinavians are eager to get back to their sporting roots, and while Saab is still hinting, Chief Volvo stylist Peter Horbury unveiled a S60 based concept that utilizes aerodynamic, engine and suspension bits inspired by Volvos successful touring sedan. The Laser Blue and Silver Volvo Performance Concept Car has a 300 hp 5-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sitting on 19" BBS magnesium wheels. And lest one thinks that Volvo has abandoned safety, the car's on-board multiplex processor system controls elements such as an electronically managed four-wheel drive from Haldex, a Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept (FOUR-C) - the outcome of long-term cooperation with Öhlins Racing AB and DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control). These latter elements represent major new trends as component suppliers like Teves, Visteon, Delphi and others showed us real applications of ride and performance enhancing systems that wound up greatly benefiting safety. One developer candidly admitted that one of the major issues delaying crash and accident avoidance technologies was the legal climate in the US, the major market. Few are willing to deal with tort hungry lawyers who tend to sue even if the systems work perfectly, based on creating sympathy awards among perceived deep corporate pockets.

Lear Corp. and Jaguar Racing unveiled a new racing seat at the Formula 1 race held at the Brickyard in Indianapolis last weekend. Known as the APEX system, the seat is of energy absorbing dual shell construction and is fitted with quick release rods for easy extrication of the seat, allowing an injured driver to be to be safely transported while spinal, head, and neck stabilization is maintained. Some trauma doctors have noted that many spinal injuries are worsened during the extraction process from road accidents, and suggest that with proper design it would be helpful to remove victims from a passenger car while still strapped in their seats. With seat mounted belts becoming more common, Lear is looking at this possibility in future designs.

The BMW 3 series fighting X-400 "Baby Jag" is due in November, and Jaguar will go from producing 75,000 vehicles to an anticipated 200,000 vehicles annually at the plant that formerly produced the high volume Escort. Once Jag was only a luxury niche manufacturer, with dozens of home grown passenger cars and in recent years supplanted by Honda, Nissan and Peugeot plants on the English island. With the departure and/or reductions of BMC, Triumph, Vauxhall and now Rover and Ford, in a short time Jaguar is likely to be the volume auto manufacturer in England.

It's Deer Season, and we don't mean the kind celebrated with firearms. Crashes involving deer occur most frequently during the months of October, November and December, usually during the 6-9 p.m. period. Every state on the continent has an abundant deer population and in some locales 40 percent or more of all crashes last year were car-deer-related at this time of year. Widely touted deer whistles have not proven to be of any value. To reduce your chances of a car-deer crash: Look for deer, especially in the evening and slow if you see them; Watch for deer crossing signs; Drive at lower speeds through a posted area any time of the day or night; Wear safety belts, stay awake, alert and sober.

Bob welcomes comments or questions at bstorck@sprynet.com

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2000 MAZDA 626
MAZDA 626 OFFERS SPORTY PERFORMANCE IN A COMFORTABLE FAMILY SEDAN
Price Range - $18,995 - 28,000
Engine - 2.2 liter, 130 hp I4 or 2.7 liter, 170 hp V6
Front Engine/Front Drive
MPG (city/hwy) - 26/33
Airbags - DP (side optional) ABS - optional
***
Features - Solid Mazda value has been undermined by obscurity - New ad campaign should enhance performance image and get more families into capable 626
+++

(Santa Cruz, CA)Often ads show happy families cavorting along sun drenched roads, with bliss and enjoyment radiating from their faces. Too often, reality is constrained by less than comfortable seats and uninspired ride and handling. Mazda's new ad campaign of 'Zoom, zoom' is not an idle boast, and the fun aspect is no idle boast. They are only held back by weak advertising and a small dealer network.

Their forte is excellent handling and the Flat Rock, MI built 626 sedan is really fun to drive. Much has been made of Mazda's ability to introduce excellent products, but they have been getting nailed by introducing them too early or too late.

They introduced thirsty rotary engines just before the fuel crises. Their Protégé is an excellent and spacious compact, but came after Corolla, Civic and Escort had the market wrapped up. Few sports cars ever matched the performance, styling and driving excitement of the last RX7, but it came along just as Japanese sports cars were being replaced by sport utes. Without the Miata, few would know the brand.

The 626 gets lost in the shuffle. Too bad, because it has all the power and comfort features of any of its competitors. Other brands have concentrated on ride, while Mazda seems to take care of handling first, and finds that the passenger comfort is not sacrificed. It can be considered a four door Miata.

Many of today's midsize sedans come with styling that doesn't entice and with performance that doesn't entertain. The redesigned 2000 626 hasn't broken radically from this trend in appearance but has now adopted a consistent corporate visual identity. If it closely resembles the Acura inverted pentagram from the front, at least they are copying success.

The five point front grill prominently displays the new Mazda symbol. It's a silver rounded square containing a graceful "M" that resembles faraway birds in a landscape painting.

Very Japanese, and a pleasant touch.

The front end is functional and appealing, with a sharp sloped hood tapering to a front bumper that includes the lower air intake. A low belt line imparts that muscular, sporty appearance that has become the norm in this segment, but stretches to a rear section that is raised in a wedge. The rear of the 626 isn't too high and keeps the car's front and rear ends in balance and provides a generous trunk. Chrome accents dress up the outside as do standard 15-inch steel wheels (15 and 16 inch alloy wheels are also available).

Four models cover all the bases: the LX in-line four and LX V 6 are the entry level models, but the V6 version creates some flexibility for drivers seeking better performance. The more upscale ES four-cylinder boasts leather and other trimmings, while the top-of-the-line ES V6 includes the works.

The new 626 has been largely patterned after Mazda's flagship Millenia luxury sedan, with a similar front end, V6 power, great features and smooth, quiet ride.

With an excellent array of engines and a full complement of comfort features, buyers should at least consider the 626. Few present owners are disappointed. Despite increasingly stringent standards, the four-cylinder engine qualifies as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all except the four-cylinder ES model; a four-speed electronic automatic transmission is optional.

A manual transmission is an unnecessary option for a midsize family sedan but many folks who cannot justify BMWs will appreciate Mazda's thoughtfulness.

These engines are enhanced by improved steering, braking and overall feel. Power-assist rack-and-pinion steering is even more precise than past models. Larger wheels and a more rigid body structure add stability to improved steering, as does more assertive braking performance created by a reduction in pedal effort, improved front brake pads, and a larger master cylinder. A front disc/rear drum combination is standard on four-cylinder models; four-wheel disc brakes are available on V6 models.

Improvements in both the engine and the 626's body have reduced noise, vibration and harshness considerably. Mazda says structural rigidity has increased 43 percent through the use of new frame supports, benefiting noise, handling and safety.

Mazda's Twin-Trapezoidal Link rear suspension works matches an independent front suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars to give a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent performance and handling under all road conditions. Side airbags are optional for the first time on a Mazda 626, and front dual de-powered airbags are standard equipment. ABS is optional and a traction-control system comes on all V6 models.

Through efficient use of their patented 'OptiSpace' process Mazda crates and interior that matches the Toyota Camry in size and is larger than the Nissan Altima. The 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space bests both of these as well as the Honda Accord.

The interior has chrome accents that echo the exterior trim and add an upscale touch to door handles, courtesy lamps, handbrake lever, and the automatic transmission shift lever. The 60/40 split fold-down rear seat provides suburban flexibility, as does a standard driver's seat lifter to accommodate a wide range of driver heights and widths. Driving pleasure is enhanced by a standard AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers (standard on LX V6 and ES models) or a BOSE AM/FW/CD/cassette four-speaker system (standard on the ES V6).

Standard on ES models are air-conditioning; cruise control; dual power outside mirrors; power trunk release; auto-off headlights; power windows and door locks; a security system with remote keyless entry and a computerized setup that immobilizes the car unless the special ignition key is used.

Consumers already are finding that the 626 offers more car for the money than most midsize competitors -- foreign or domestic. Now that Ford is a major share holder, and has taken management responsibility, the people who rescued Jaguar are taking care of Mazda.

Bob welcomes comments or questions at bstorck@sprynet.com

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2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe and Spyder
CONVERTIBLE ECLIPSE OFFERS SUMMER FUN AND FOUL WEATHER SECURITY
Price Range - $17,987 - 29,000
Engine - 2.4 liter 147 hp I4 and 3.0 liter 205 hp V6
Front Engine/Front Drive
MPG (city/hwy) - 23/31
Airbags - DP (side optional) ABS - optional
***
Features - With open air freedom and a large interior, Eclipse Spyder is an answer for sports car owners with more than one friend - Good value and sleek design completes the package
+++

(Tucson, AZ) Mitsubishi is using the ad campaign, "Wake up and drive" to tout its cars to enthusiasts. In their lineup of cars and Sport Utility Vehicles, the Eclipse Spyder GT represents the pinnacle of its current sports car efforts.

Mitsubishi has chosen 'Spyder' to describe their Eclipse convertible offering. The term 'Spyder' can conjure up images of small European open sports cars, usually German or Italian, and springs forth images of delight in the sun. (Open British sports cars are usually referred to as roadsters, and the Italians have another lovely name for small open cars, 'barchetta', or 'little boat'.) But then the Eclipse Spyder GT is not quite in the mold of its European namesakes. Rather, it favors the GT, or Grand Touring, portion of its name.

With a 100.8" wheelbase the Eclipse Spyder GT manages to include a back seat that can actually be used, something not found on traditional 'Spyders'. In fact the Eclipse Spyder GT packs comfort in ways that most of its smaller rivals cannot. With a high waistline, it manages to minimize wind buffeting of even the occasional back seat passenger.

Its lined convertible top adds a quietness to top up motoring that many other convertibles don't offer. Plus, the power operated top is cleverly shaped to ensure adequate head room for rear seat passengers when it must be up.

Putting the top up is a breeze -- press a button and secure two latches and you're done. It goes down just as easily, but you'll want it down as often as possible.

The all-new Eclipse Spyder features the same "geo-mechanical" design as the sports coupe, which has set sales records. Beneath the attention getting looks are many detail changes from the previous Spyder: improved aerodynamics and better passenger protection from wind buffeting; refinements to structural rigidity that includes a racecar-inspired shock tower brace; and a longer wheelbase, wider track, enhanced interior room and more trunk space.

The Eclipse Coupe is available in RS, GS and GT trim levels and two equipment levels are offered in the Spyder-- GS and GT. Both Spyder models are available with a 5-speed manual transmission or Sportronic(tm) 4-speed automatic for "manumatic" shifting. Generous equipment levels include a power convertible cloth top, fully lined with a glass rear window and rear defroster, power windows and door locks, 16-inch alloy wheels and tires (GS), fog lights, air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM/CD tuner and anti-theft engine immobilizer for security. Upgrades for the Spyder GT include 17-inch alloy wheels and tires, twin-piston front brake calipers, and traction control (with Sportronic transmission only).

Options include a leather-trimmed interior, 3-in-1 Mitsubishi Infinity(r) AM/FM/cassette audio system with in-dash, 4-disc CD changer, side air bags and ABS brakes.

With the demise of the 3000GT, the Eclipse becomes the Mitsubishi flagship and image bearer. Gone is the AWD version, a disappointment to the performance and safety conscious, but AWD was not a highly successful option in the sales mix.

The RS and GS versions of the Eclipse are equipped with a large, 2.4L DOHC 4 cylinder engine. This engine provides a significant amount of torque that helps when coupled to an automatic transmission.

The 205 HP Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V6 offers plenty of power for any around town or highway need. When mated to the 5 speed manual transmission the Spyder GT acts a bit like a 'muscle car' when pressed. There is a deep, resonant, exhaust note present over the drivers left shoulder when winding out.

The 4cyl/5speed manual is quicker than expected and may be the choice for some enthusiasts, but the V6 gives the car a much more expensive "GT car" feel. The new GT V6 is expected to account for 55% of 50,000 total sales.

This is a car that grows on you. It may not have the ultimate 'go-cart' fun factor that the smaller convertibles have, but it handles well and is easy to drive. The brakes and steering have a nice, 'connected', feel that make driving this car a pleasure. The Eclipse Spyder GT provides a comfortable, stress free, driving experience thanks to its good ergonomic layout, wonderful control feel, soft seating surfaces and its smooth V6.

Unlike 'muscle cars' of yore, the Eclipse utilizes a front wheel drive layout which aids in packaging and adverse weather traction. It exhibits a modicum of torque steer when launched hard, but most will not notice it, especially when it's equipped with an automatic transmission.

The Eclipse Spyder GT comes shod with meaty 215/50 VR 17 tires on good looking multi-spoked aluminum wheels barely covering generous four wheel disk brakes. They manage to provide good stopping power and in testing proved to be fade free and easy to modulate.

The V6 GT is the only model available with the optional "GT premium package" and an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and traction control are included. Besides the active safety of ABS and traction control, the package includes side air bags for the front seats as well as luxury parts including a power driver's seat, 210 Watt Mitsubishi/Infinity stereo (equipped with 4-disc in-dash CD change and seven speakers), as well as leather front seating surfaces.

The interior is a functional melding of natural forms and engineered elements, such as a radio/time readout on the upper central instrument panel that provides easy visibility while keeping both eyes on the road. The power operated drivers seat is a real plus for long drives as long legged drivers can tilt the seat for better clearance.

Mitsubishi worked hard to provide a new edgy styling theme to the Eclipse. Some will find the side strakes in the doors busy, but they do take eyes away from the length of the wheelbase, making the car appear a little less long than it really is. Plus, the side strakes match up and carry to completion the cuts in the outer edges of the front bumpers. The soft shapes and sharp creases in the car reflect what many manufacturers are doing with styling these days.

The jury is still out on what some consider a 'plain' front end and others have targeted the rear end for criticism. Taken as a whole, however, this is a popular shape that is targeted directly at a youthful audience.

Hugo Becker contributed to this review

Bob welcomes comments or questions at bstorck@sprynet.com