2012 Ford Focus hatchback, Mazda 3, Nissan 370Z
Car Guy and me, RX7 go out and critique cars and we have unique viewpoints on the car options out there. Car Guy likes luxury and I don't, I do practicality while he checks out the technology aspects of cars, etc.
0-bottom of the line, CRAP!
1-Needs a lot of improvement
2-Eh, so-so, insert derisive snort. Could work for some but not me
LOOKS-3, the big front spoiler is all you can really see and you might find your eyes involuntarily glued to it. Spoilers are like lipstick and this one wears it badly.
INTERIOR-3, comfortable. Some taller people might find the rear space is too cramped.
GADGETS-2. MyFordTouch has a lot of complaints regarding user friendly interfaces though Ford is taking steps to resolve this. Offers Sync capability which if you're not technologically minded, will pose a problem for you. Too many buttons on the steering wheel, complicated center console which can distract you from driving.
PRACTICALITY-Small hatchback, will be good for commuting and the weekly grocery run.
NOTES: Computer navigation has to have periodic updates from the dealer which will have a service charge attached to it. The car has a valet key and a master key, of which a parent can program so a younger driver is limited in the volume of the radio and the speed of the car.
LOOKS-1. Front spoiler dominates the car, looks like a gigantic lipsticked smile. Other than that the looks are decent and they come in some interesting colors.
INTERIOR-4. Very comfortable, not cheap looking and not overdone.
GADGETS-4. Simple and easy to use. Mazda has always done well on basics in cars. The radio is easy to use and is uncomplicated.
PRACTICALITY-Small sedan, much like the Focus, excellent for commutes.
NOTES: Some Mazdas have what is called Skyactiv technology which is just a marketing gimmick but will give you somewhat better gas mileage.
LOOKS-3. Appears to have had botched plastic surgery. The lipstick spoiler is worn slightly better than the Mazda but still visually distracting. The headlights are like a Botox job gone wrong. The two small lights on either side of the spoiler look like staples to hold that forced grin on this 2 seater sportscar.
INTERIOR-1. Relatively uncomplicated but the basic controls have been put at the base of the center console, making it difficult to find from the driver's or passenger sides of the car. There is a small compartment put where the controls should have been to store miscellaneous items.
GADGETRY-2. OK but it could be a lot better. The controls have small buttons, again making it hard to find when you want them.
PRACTICALITY-Sportscar. OK for commuting or the occasional road trip. Best for summer use only.
NOTES: The 370Z has a huge butt that sticks up in the back. Moderate cargo space.
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Car Guy and I have been to several Prime dealerships and we have always found the customer service very courteous, consistent, friendly, always happy to talk cars with us. Prime is the antithesis of the Dodge motor group where the salespeople treat you like you are dirt (as per our experiences).
And now, a rare car sighting: The VW Phaeton.
NOTE: We do not review cars' gas mileage or visibility. That depends on the person who is interested in buying it. Fuel economy depends on your driving style and your commutes. Visibility depends on the type of car you are buying and how tall you are. These are our opinions only.
