The Best of 2014: Vincent's Auto Review's Picks

            This year is slipping away from us, and thus, it’s time to announce the Vincent’s Auto Reviews Top New Car Picks of 2014. Each category represents an automobile segment in the United States. Without further ado, we are excited to announce our top picks for 2014:

Subcompact Car: Ford Fiesta: When the Ford Fiesta was first announced in the United States in 2011, it caused quite a stir. Aimed at younger buyers or buyers who wanted excellent fuel economy ratings, the Fiesta has sold well since its introduction. But for 2014, an all-new Fiesta was introduced. Now with the ST model, Ford has officially gotten back into the “Hot-Hatch” game in the United States. With updated technology features, sophisticated styling, and your choice of sedan or hatchback models, the Fiesta offers a plethora of features for a low price. The Fiesta is one of the best compact introductions of 2014.

Compact Car: Dodge Dart: When Dodge introduced its compact Neon back in 1995; it was a viable replacement for its aging Shadow series of cars. But, in 2007, Dodge replaced the Neon with the Caliber hatchback. But even a performance-oriented SRT4 model couldn’t improve sales for the Caliber. In 2012, Dodge finally retired the Caliber, and for 2013, introduced its first compact sedan since 2005: the Dart. Bringing back the classic Dart namesake, the all-new compact sedan is built on an Alfa Romeo-based chassis, and offers some of the best technology and performance features in its class, not to an EPA-estimated 41 MPG fuel economy rating for the Aero model with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Dart is aerodynamic and mimics the styling of its larger Charger sibling. And it got even better for 2014: Dodge introduced a performance-oriented GT model, offering even more aggressive styling and a sportier driving feel. For compact car shoppers, the Dart is most certainly worth a look.

Midsized Car: Mazda 6: The Mazda 6 was first introduced in 2003, though it was overshadowed by its competitors like the Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry, and even the Ford Fusion. In 2009, Mazda redesigned its midsized sedan, giving it a sporty look inside and out, as well as more power and performance features. For 2014, though, Mazda takes it a step further by once again redesigning its bestseller. With an all-new, aerodynamically-designed exterior, more technology features, and SkyActiv technology returning a shocking EPA-estimated 38 MPG highway fuel economy rating, it’s no surprise that the 6 is still a bestseller.

Full-Sized Car: Chevrolet Impala: Up until the mid-1990s, the Chevrolet Impala was the “go-to” car for plenty of space, power, and driving excitement. But starting in 2000, the Impala switched to a front-wheel-drive platform from rear-wheel-drive, and its styling blended right in with its competitors. In 2006, Chevrolet attempted to give the Impala a more updated design, though the Impala mostly had appealed to rental fleets in recent years. For 2014, Chevrolet is looking to change that game with the introduction of its all-new Impala. Though still a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the latest Impala still offers some of the most advanced technology, safety, and performance features in its class. And they are right on target: the Impala is selling excellently, and the full-sized sedan is alive again.

Subcompact SUV: Fiat 500L: Fiat shocked the world when it introduced its first five-door 500, dubbed the 500L. “L” stands for “Living”, emphasizing on space and being fun-to-drive. Offering some of the retro-like styling, same performance features, and recognizable 500 DNA, the all-new 500L is one popular vehicle. Move over, Kia Soul, Nissan Cube, and Scion xB: the 500L is stealing your spotlight.

Compact SUV: Hyundai Tucson: When the second-generation Hyundai Tucson was introduced back in 2011, it immediately became a popular seller. For 2014, it received a mid-cycle restyling, with a revised front end, new exterior lighting, and improved audio systems. For a low price, you get more standard features than what you would get when you purchase one of the Tucson’s competitors, and it just looks sporty. And you can’t beat Hyundai’s class-leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty. No wonder the Tucson still continues to excel in the compact SUV marketplace.

Midsized SUV: Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been around since 1993, and it had always been a bestseller up until 2005, when it lost its American Motors Corporation (AMC) DNA, and gained DNA from Daimler-Benz Corporation. In 2011, Jeep redesigned the Grand Cherokee, which is now in its fourth generation, and it immediately became a bestseller once again. And for 2014, Jeep has given its bestseller and flagship vehicle a mid-cycle restyling, with new exterior styling, technology features, and power trains. For those who want the best fuel economy out of a midsized almost-luxury SUV, there’s the EcoDiesel engine, developed in an alliance with Fiat SPA. Despite its high starting MSRP, the Grand Cherokee still sells well, and still attracts loyal Jeep owners with its luxuriousness and upscale feel.

Full-Sized SUV: Nissan Armada: When you think full-sized SUV, Nissan doesn’t generally come to mind. Nissan’s Armada has been around since it was first introduced as the Pathfinder Armada back in 2004, and it’s very much been unchanged since then. That doesn’t prevent it from selling in large numbers, though, based on the fact that it is based upon the Titan large pickup truck platform. With plenty of luxury and technology features, plus a reliable 5.6L V8 engine, the Armada is an excellent deal for buyers who wish not to pay the high prices of the Armada’s competitors, like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon.

Minivan: Chrysler Town and Country: The Chrysler Town and Country continues to be a family favorite and the preferred choice for minivan buyers. With standard features like leather seating surfaces, a rear seat DVD entertainment system, the innovative exclusive Stow ‘N’ Go foldable second-row and third-row seating system, a touch-screen audio system with SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth, and much more, the Town and Country offers the best value in a minivan.

Regular Van: RAM ProMaster: When Dodge discontinued its full-sized RAM Vans in 2003, Dodge fans were saddened. The Mercedes Benz-based Sprinter vans were far more expensive than the vans they replaced, and even though they were very reliable, thanks to a Mercedes-Benz turbocharged diesel engine, full-sized van buyers generally turned to the American-made Chevrolet Express/GMC Savannah and Ford Econoline Series (the latter was discontinued for 2015, replaced by the Transit Series of full-sized vans). For 2014, the RAM brand reintroduced a full-sized van based on the Fiat Ducato Series. And it’s sold well since its introduction. Offered in cargo van, window van, cab-and-chassis, and cutaway van styles and many different wheelbases and roof heights, there’s a ProMaster for every buyer.

Pickup Truck: RAM 1500: The RAM 1500 has been a bestseller ever since it was introduced in the early 1980s. The latest incarnation of the RAM 1500 takes everything to a whole new level. With class-exclusive features such as an in-bed storage system, the largest touch-screen display available in a pickup truck, a diesel V6 engine, and an eight-speed automatic transmission standard across the lineup, it’s no wonder that the RAM 1500 continues to excel. The RAM 1500 is the best full-sized pickup truck sold today.

-Vincent D., Vincent’s Auto Reviews

Best Back-To-School Vehicles: Vincent's Auto Reviews' Picks

            As hard as it is to believe, the new school year will soon be upon us. If your teenager is going back to school, whether it be high school or college, and you want to buy them a used car, Vincent’s Auto Reviews has compiled a list of our best used car picks for back to school.

Best Subcompact Car: Kia Rio, 2006-2011: Small, thrifty, and safe, the Kia Rio is a great pick for going back to school. Plus, the industry-leading 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty means that scheduled repairs will be taken care of during the time your teen has the car. Should they need to take passengers along for the ride, the Rio, in either sedan or hatchback form, will seat five passengers comfortably.

Best Compact Car: Ford Focus, 2008-2011: A fun-to-drive, efficient, and sporty-looking little car, the Focus offers up many features to satisfy your techy teen. From Bluetooth hands-free phone and iPod integration, to SIRIUS Satellite Radio, to full voice control of the sound system, the Focus offers many features to keep your teen safe, yet still satisfied, while behind the wheel. Plus, Ford’s MyKey on later model (2010 and newer) Focus’s allows you to set parameters for your teen, such as limiting the volume of the sound system, muting the sound system until your teen buckles up, and setting a speed warning and limit. Should your teen want extra sportiness, a coupe variant, which still seats five passengers and is visibly sportier than the sedan model, is also available to purchase.

Best Midsized Car: Mazda6, 2004-2008: There’s a Mazda6 to satisfy every driver, including your teen. From a five-door wagon, to a four-door hatchback, to the traditional four-door sedan, there’s plenty to choose from. With either four-cylinder or V6 power, there’s also an engine choice for every driver. All models seat five passengers in comfort, while providing plenty of trunk or cargo room space to load up your teen’s things. While harder to find, the MazdaSpeed6 is also available to purchase.

Best Full-Sized Car: Dodge Charger V6, 2006-2010: Just because you don’t want your teenager to have a lot of power, doesn’t mean they still can’t have fun while driving. The V6-powered Charger, offering the looks of its V8-powered siblings, while offering better fuel economy and less power, the Charger is a fun-to-drive sports sedan. Bluetooth technology allows your teenager to connect their phone and take calls or stream their favorite music, while an auxiliary input jack allows them to plug in their MP3 player. Plus, if you live in a cold climate where snow may be in the forecast, all-wheel-drive can be had on the Charger, in addition to the standard rear-wheel-drive version.

Best Compact SUV: Jeep Liberty, 2002-2007: So your teenager wants a Jeep, but you don’t want them in a convertible. The Liberty is a fun-to-drive, four-door SUV that offers four-wheel-drive capabilities while still having excellent on-road manners. Offering a swing-out rear tailgate, your teenager can load cargo into their Liberty easily and without much effort, while the rear bench seat folds flat to create a larger cargo area. The Liberty is a no-brainer.

Best Midsized SUV: Jeep Grand Cherokee, 1999-2004: If your teenager wants a more traditional Jeep, the Grand Cherokee satisfies that want. Offered with six-cylinder or V8 engines, two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, and many different models, the Grand Cherokee is a solid pick. Like the Liberty, even though it doesn’t have a swing-out tailgate, loading of cargo is effortless, and the rear bench seat folds flat. Plus, your teenager can carry four additional passengers in comfort. The Grand Cherokee is a great choice for teenaged drivers.

Best Full-Sized SUV: Ford Expedition, 2003-2006: While you may not be shopping for a full-sized SUV for your teenager, the Expedition remains a great consideration. Even though it has V8 power, a fold-flat third-row seat allows for passenger-carrying capabilities when your teenager needs it or cargo-carrying capabilities when your teenager needs to carry larger items in their vehicle. Advanced safety features like side-mounted airbags and traction and stability controls keep your teenager safe while behind the wheel of the Expedition.

 Best Pickup Truck: Dodge Dakota, 2005-2011: If your teenager plays a sport or just needs to haul a lot, a pickup truck may be a great option, but that doesn’t necessarily mean a full-sized pickup truck. In fact, the Dakota offers V6 or V8 power, two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, and four doors, either in extended or crew cabs. The Dakota also seats up to six people (in crew cab form) and can be equipped with a large bed for extreme cargo carrying capabilities. The Dakota is a solid choice for your teenager.

-Vincent D., Vincent’s Auto Reviews

Saying Goodbye to the Cars Being Discontinued After 2014

            2014 has been a great year in the automotive world, with many new innovations in technology, safety, performance, styling, and more, and for 2015, it just keeps getting better. Unfortunately, though, 2015 is also a year that we pay homage to some of the models that are getting their swan song. Here is a list of all the vehicles that are being axed for 2015:

Acura TL and TSX: For 2015, Acura is discontinuing three models, two of which are four-door sedans (the TL and TSX), and one of which is a five-door wagon (the TSX). While the TL is now in its fourth generation, and the TSX is now in its second generation, it is finally time to say goodbye to Acura’s well-priced midsized luxury sedans (and wagon). Fear not, though: Acura has introduced an all-new four-door midsized luxury sedan for 2015: the TLX. Combining the best features of both of its predecessors, the all-new TLX offers both four-cylinder and six-cylinder power, and two automatic transmissions. Front and all-wheel-drive will be available.

Chrysler 200 Convertible: Even though its four-door sedan sibling was redesigned for 2015, the Chrysler 200 Convertible has seen a decline in sales over the past few years, with most of its sales going to rental fleets. Americans just don’t see the need for a sedan-based two-door front-wheel-drive convertible like it used to in the late 1990s to mid-2000s. The 200 Convertible is one of a dying breed.

Dodge Avenger: Despite its Chrysler 200 Sedan sibling being fully redesigned for 2015, the Dodge Avenger unfortunately does not make it into 2015. The 2015 Chrysler 200 offers the same features and new improvements for about the same price. Dodge could possibly introduce a midsized rear-wheel-drive coupe with the Avenger nameplate in the next few years, paying homage to the Mitsubishi Eclipse-based Dodge Avenger coupe that was manufactured between 1995 and 2000. The Dodge Avenger won’t really be missed, and the all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan picks up right where it left off.

Ford E-Series: The Ford E-Series has been a very popular seller ever since it was first introduced as the Econoline in the early 1960s. Unfortunately, though, there comes a time when things get old, as the current-generation E-Series has stuck around since 1992 virtually unchanged, despite revised styling in recent years. For 2015, Ford introduces its Transit series, which has been a popular seller in Europe, as much as the E-Series ever was. The new Transit series offers new technology, performance, and safety features (i.e. the industry-first four-row side curtain airbags), and offers more refinement than its predecessor. So will the Transit be as popular a seller in the U.S. as it has always been in Europe? We think so.

Honda Insight: Ah, the Honda Insight. Before the Toyota Prius, it was America’s first hybrid gasoline/electric vehicle that was mass-marketed. The first generation Insight, sold from 1999 to 2006, was a two-seater, front-wheel-drive car that featured a controversial design. In 2010, Honda decided to reintroduce the Insight for a second generation after a four-year hiatus, offering a five-seat, front-wheel-drive car that offered aerodynamic styling without being too controversial. Unfortunately, though, demand for the Insight has seen a downfall in the past few years, and Honda decided to retire the Insight earlier this year. Worry not, though: there are still plenty of hybrid offerings in Honda’s growing lineup: the Civic, Accord, and CR-Z all offer excellent fuel economy and plenty of space for American consumers.

Honda Fit EV: While its non-electric sibling gets fully redesigned for 2015, the Honda Fit EV, which only saw a production run of about one year, is being retired. Only available in California and Oregon, the next generation Fit EV will debut when pigs start flying.

Jaguar XK: When it was first introduced in the mid-1990s, the Jaguar XK was quite a car. In the 2000s, a close competitor, the Lexus SC430, was introduced. Since the SC430 was discontinued, the market for a premium, four-seat British coupe and convertible has seen a decline. The F-Type will pick up where the XK will leave off.

McLaren MP412-C: With the introduction of its 650S sports coupe and roadster, McLaren has decided to discontinue its MP412-C coupe and roadster. The 650S will take the MP412-C’s place.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: Mercedes-Benz caused quite a stir when it introduced the successor to its SLR McLaren, offering both a coupe and a roadster, and this time offering gull-wing doors. Mercedes-Benz is beginning to plan for the introduction of yet another successor, and therefore, we say “so long” to the SLS AMG.

Mini Clubman: Introduced as a Mini Cooper with an extra door and barn-style rear doors, the Mini Clubman is being replaced by a four-door sibling to the all-new Mini Cooper Hardtop. The rear third door was awkward, and didn’t improve rear seat access, unfortunately. We look forward to the Clubman’s successor.

Mitsubishi Evolution: A souped-up performance version of the Lancer, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, later called the Evolution, competed with the likes of the Subaru (Impreza) WRX and WRX STi. Due to its high base price, this four-door sedan has sold in little numbers in the past few years. The Evolution, or “Evo”, as it’s affectionately referred to, is being dropped for 2015.

Nissan Cube: Originally introduced as a competitor for the Kia Soul and Scion xB, demand for the Nissan Cube has declined in recent years due to the asymmetrical styling and retro-like styling. While some may miss the Cube, others may not.

Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet: When Nissan first announced that it would chop the top off its Murano four-door crossover SUV in 2011, everyone thought it was only an April fool’s joke. But that was only until it actually happened: Nissan DID actually chop the top off the Murano. Nobody asked for it, yet Nissan still delivered it. The CrossCabriolet, with its expensive base price and little options, has been dropped from Nissan’s lineup.

Scion xD: When it was introduced, the Scion xD was only as popular as its xA predecessor. Yet, the xD still stuck around. With the xB still in its lineup, Scion has decided to drop the xD for 2015.

Subaru Tribeca: Originally called the B9 Tribeca, the Subaru Tribeca has proven not to be a popular seller due to its bubble-like styling and ancient four-speed automatic transmission. The Tribeca has (quietly) slipped out of Subaru’s lineup for 2015, due to the introduction of an all-new 2015 Outback wagon.

Toyota FJ Cruiser: The Toyota FJ Cruiser was introduced in 2007 to pay homage to the classic Land Cruisers of yesteryear.  Now in its eighth model year, the FJ Cruiser has run its course, and is ready to be retired. While we’ll miss its off-road ability and ruggedness, as well as its retro styling, and while Toyota still offers its classic 4Runner, and we’ll (sadly) watch it ride off into the sunset.

While the following vehicles aren’t being discontinued, their manufacturers have decided to skip over the 2015 model year in preparation for all-new models to be introduced for 2016 and beyond. The vehicles are as follows:

-Cadillac CTS-V

-Mazda2

-Nissan Maxima

-Vincent D., Vincent’s Auto Reviews

2014 Kia Sorento LX (I4) FWD Review- 26k Miles

            INTRODUCTION: When Kia introduced its midsized Sorento for the 2003 Model Year (MY), it was out to challenge some of its Japanese competitors, such as the Mitsubishi Montero, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. Unfortunately, though, the Sorento just couldn’t stand up to the Montero, Pathfinder, and Highlander, all of which were either redesigned (Pathfinder, Highlander) or totally discontinued (Montero). For 2011, Kia decided to step up its game when it unveiled its all-new, second-generation Sorento. The new Sorento offered new features in technology, safety, and fuel economy, among others. For 2014, Kia gave the Sorento a mid-cycle restyling. Let’s take a look at the newly-restyled 2014 Kia Sorento LX (I4) FWD and see what it has to offer.

            EXTERIOR: The minute you walk up to the 2014 Kia Sorento, you’ll see how stylish this midsized crossover SUV can be. Even the base (LX) model, which we’re reviewing, is very attractive, from its chrome-and-black-mesh front grille, to standard seventeen-inch alloy wheels mounted on all-season tires, to chrome door handle accent strips and exterior-color power side-view mirrors. This particular Sorento was finished in Snow White Pearl Coat, which makes the Sorento look luxurious. Front fog lamps come as part of the LX Conveinience Package, which also adds heated side-view mirrors. Rear backup sensors and a rear backup camera allow the driver to easily maneuver the Sorento. A switchblade keyless entry remote and key combination with a faux carbon fiber look makes the Sorento look even more upscale.

            INTERIOR: When you step inside the 2014 Kia Sorento, the luxurious appearance continues. Faux wood trim adorns the interior and door panels, and all interior panels (aside from the dashboard) are made of a soft vinyl material. The transmission shift lever features a faux leather shift boot. Manual climate controls are easy-to-use and provide adequate adjustments. Both front seats are manually-adjustable, and the LX Conveinience Package adds heated front seats, rare on cloth seating-equipped vehicles. The LX Convenience Package  also adds an upgraded head unit for the audio system, featuring a 4.3-inch color touch screen display with Kia’s UVO voice control system and auxiliary and USB input jacks (a special adapter is required to be purchased separately that allows an iPod or iPhone to be used properly with the system), Bluetooth with A2DP Stereo streaming of audio from compatible devices, a single-disc CD/MP3 player, and SIRIUS-XM Satellite Radio, which would include a six-month trial subscription courtesy of Kia when the vehicle is purchased new (the subscription in this particular vehicle had expired). The system also integrated the aforementioned rear backup camera, which included guidance lines for easy maneuvering in reverse. The monochromatic displays were either white or dark red in color, and washed out in direct sunlight (the digital clock located directly above the radio and multi-informational display in between the gauges, for example). Bluetooth pairing was seamless with a Samsung Galaxy S III Android smartphone. Speaking of sound, the six-speaker audio system sounded tinny regardless of how it was adjusted, and we’d recommend the upgrade to the Infinity premium sound system, which features an external amplifier and subwoofer. The rear bench seat folds flat, though not completely flat and third-row seating is optional (this particular Sorento did not feature that option). The front seats were comfortable on an eight-hour trip. The interior color on this Sorento was Beige. Interior quality was right on target for a vehicle with 26,000 miles on the odometer. Overall, the trip in the Sorento was enjoyable.

            PERFORMANCE: This particular 2014 Kia Sorento featured a 2.4L, 190-horsepower Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDi) Inline Four-Cylinder (I4) engine, though a 3.5L, 291-horsepower V6 engine is also available on all models, and standard on some models. Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) was equipped on this particular Sorento, though All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) is optional for all models. All models, regardless of engine and drive-train selections, feature a six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually by the transmission shift lever. When the Eco Mode is engaged (indicated by an indicator in the instrument cluster), fuel economy was increased as opposed to not using the Eco Mode (this feature can be turned on and off by utilizing a button in the center console). On an eight-hour trip, each way, and for over 600 miles, we achieved about 25 Miles Per Gallon (MPG) average, which is good for a larger SUV. If you’re looking for fuel economy, purchase a model with the Inline Four-Cylinder (I4), preferably with Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD). However, if you need the extra power, definitely opt for the 3.5L V6 with All-Wheel-Drive (AWD).

            SUMMARY: So, is the 2014 Kia Sorento a good pick for the midsized SUV shopper? We’d say so. For under $28,000, the LX I4 FWD model with LX Convenience Package offers an abundance of standard features for a good price, as opposed to its competitors, such as the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.

INFORMATION:

Vehicle: 2014 Kia Sorento LX (I4) FWD

Exterior Color and Interior Color: Snow White Pearl Coat w/ Beige Cloth Interior

Mileage, as Tested: 26,000 Mile(s)

Engine: 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDi) Inline Four-Cylinder (I4)

Transmission and Drive-Train: 6-Speed Automatic w/ Manual Shifting Mode, ‘Eco’ Mode, and Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD)

Base Price, MSRP: $24,100.00

Additional Option(s): LX Conveinience Package ($2,000.00 MSRP)

Total Price, MSRP: $26,995.00

-Vincent D., Vincent’s Auto Reviews