2010 Cleveland Auto Show Thoughts

I was a day later than I intended due to an entire weekend of massive snowfall, but today's clear weather meant I was going to break my cabin fever and get down to the I-X Center for the 2010 Cleveland Auto Show...and I was not disappointed one bit. If it wasn't clear before, it should be very clear to everyone now: General Motors and Ford are back in a big way, but there's a Titanic-sized threat looming in the distance: Hyundai. In terms of total product, GM and Ford are very evenly matched, with a slight edge to Ford given their more complete lineup of modern automobiles (mainly, the aging Chevy Impala against the amazing Ford Taurus is a HUGE plus in the Ford camp). But, the bottom line is that American-made autos have some serious momentum going into the next decade.

What really caught my eye though? 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Ho-ly crap. While it may not be the most practical midsize sedan out there in terms of spaciousness, the interior felt like a luxury car. I was floored and would have sat in the car for a good hour had there not been a line. Mechanically it's a very advanced car as well. Hyundai has raised the bar, and I can't wait to see what Ford and GM have in store for the next Fusion and Malibu. (In this segment, the Sonata was 1st among interiors, with the Fusion 2nd and Malibu 3rd...everyone else was distant followers, including Toyota Camry and Honda Accord)

I was very disappointed that both cars I came to the show for (Ford Focus and Chevy Cruze) were display only, so I couldn't sit in them. However, I do have some thoughts based on my observations

-Focus: This car was #1 on my list when I first saw the photos of it. In person, it is every bit as awesome as the photos dictate. However, I have one big concern about this car: It might be too small and cramped. For comparison's sake: My '03 Focus is very roomy and has lots of headroom, and models in following years have had the same general shape. This new Focus is certainly more aerodynamic...but at what cost? The greenhouse looks lower, which could make things interesting, especially for those sitting in the back seat. Also, while it is very sleek, next to the Cruze it appears too "cute;" the Cruze looks like a manlier car. The interior looked VERY robust and techy...perhaps a little too busy for those who aren't into complex interiors...but I was impressed despite my concerns.

-Cruze: This car is somewhat the opposite of the Focus...pictures do not do the car justice. It looks like a larger car than it is, and it's very noticeable in person. The trunk looks cavernous and while I could only see the interior from a distance, the interior looked PHENOMENAL. In all caps. The Cruze also has several factors that have helped it regain my mindshare: its 5-star crash ratings in every category in every crash test in every region of the world that the car is currently sold in...and there will be even more safety features in the U.S. version of the car (10 airbags instead of 6, for example). Also, I can't ignore the fact that almost every component of the car is built in Ohio...even though Ford has many Ohio plants as well. Still...if the Cruze is an overall larger car that has comparable fuel economy to the Focus, the Cruze will certainly be my next car. Of course, I have to drive both before making a decision.

Other cars that caught my eye:

-Buick LaCrosse: WOW. Premium interior. Excellent car. Too bad my dad just bought another car yesterday ('07 DTS with far fewer miles and more features...older car but better in the long run).

-Ford Fusion: Too bad one of my good friends moved to Atlanta, cuz I was enjoying when he drove us around in his 2010 Fusion. Still an excellent car even though the Sonata stole its thunder. The Lincoln MKZ version of it was very nice too, but not worth the extra $$$.

-Ford Taurus: Awesome. The Lincoln MKS version of it is similar to the MKZ/Fusion comparison too.

-Ford Escape: It's amazing how this SUV has stood the test of time despite being an old design.

-Chevy Equinox/GMC Terrain: Very nice.

-Hyundai Tucson: Very nice as well, it's no Sonata interior.

-Chevy Malibu: I was disappointed until I sat in the Camry and Accord, then I quickly realized just how nice the Malibu is...but it trails behind the Fusion and Sonata.

-Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang: Tied. Just a treat to sit in both.

I might be going again this week since my parents want to go...I'll have more thoughts if I do go again.

2010 Cleveland Auto Show Preview

If you haven't noticed, I've been on a car kick lately. Such a car kick that I might make a side business out of consulting for people, actually. But, that's neither here nor there for now...I'm pumped for the Auto Show this weekend. Why? Not only am I madly in love with two cars that will be at the show, but both my parents are in the car market...and I get to help sell them on a car. So, for that reason, I'm going to be looking very closely at new cars that will not only be good for me, but for my parents as well. (50+ would-be empty nesters if this 23 year old wasn't saving every penny he possibly can for a new car and house...but I digress.)

Cars for me:

-2012 Ford Focus - I've been over this already. This was the leader in the clubhouse for me a month ago, however the Cruze has closed the gap significantly for several reasons that I'll explain next. The Focus is the "it" car of this year's Auto Show and I can't wait to see it. I own a '03 Focus and if it had more features in it, I wouldn't be in such a rush to upgrade to the new model...I'd run it until it dies. However, mine is pretty bare bones and I want the creature comforts of a nicer model. This is going to be a world-class car that people will be talking about upon its release next year.

-2011 Chevy Cruze - the "other" apple of my eye. Originally a distant second to the Focus but several factors have closed the gap (I like the more powerful snout of the car over the Focus' more sporty but less assertive snout, for example). The Cruze is growing on me due to the fact that GM has worked the bugs out of the vehicle by releasing it in other countries first and refining it for U.S. release...the Focus comes out in the U.S. first, so it may have some kinks to work out. Also, for as much press the Focus is getting, the Cruze is also a world-class vehicle. It may turn out that both cars are about even.

-VW Jetta TDI - a dark horse candidate for me since I like domestics...but if gas prices rise higher than the price of diesel fuel, I'll be looking at the TDI for its phenomenal gas mileage and torque, plus creature comforts.

-Hyundai Tucson - dark horse as well...this compact SUV is brand new and VERY nice...however, I'm not sure I'd want to sacrifice the fuel economy of a smaller car for the extra size, snow traction and convenience of an SUV. This is one I'm going to keep an eye on, though.

For Mom:

-Chevy Malibu: It's been out for awhile so there's not much to say that hasn't already been said. It's a very nice car that I'd like my parents to consider as a family vehicle. It's much nicer than the Accord and Camry, for all those people who like imports.

-Ford Fusion: See above, except the Fusion is more exciting right now (the next Malibu might change that, however). Also, it's been updated more recently than the Malibu, so its refinement might be higher.

-Mazda5: She drives a Town and Country currently, and its added storage capacity and space has proven useful for us, it may be hard to give it up...but a minivan is not necessary, so a smaller Multi-Person Vehicle (MPV) of this size might be in order.

-2011 Buick Regal: Dark horse for my mom since it's a bit pricey for her...but this car is nice and sporty...VERY nice and sporty.

-Hyundai Sonata - the new one has received rave reviews and gets phenomenal gas mileage. I would love to see this in person and see how Momma Ammo likes it.

-Hyundai Tucson - see my previous explanation of it.

-Chevy Equinox - the nicest small/midsize SUV bar none. Period. However, the Tucson's priced significantly less.

-Ford Escape - Still a nice small SUV but is growing long in the tooth...still nice enough to get serious consideration if my mom wants something other than a car again.

For Dad:

Buick LaCrosse - he has an '08 Cadillac DTS with a lot of miles on it that he's looking to turn in...the LaCrosse is a very nice car that I'm trying to persuade him to seriously consider. Can't wait to see this in person.

Buick Regal - Unlike my mom, this car won't be out of his price range. But, it may be too small. He didn't like the size of the Cadillac CTS and this car's size is similar.

Lincoln MKS - Basically, a Ford clone of his DTS, with a nicer ride.

Ford Taurus - It's a MKS for less...the differences between a loaded Taurus and a MKS are nominal but the price is sizably different.

Lincoln MKZ - He said he may be looking to downsize, so why not a mid-size luxury sedan?

Ford Fusion - see the Taurus/MKS explanation. The MKZ and Fusion are basically the same car with a significant price difference.

Lastly:

OF COURSE I can't wait to see the new Mustang, Chevy Volt, and other cars I can only dream about right now...but these are the ones I'm looking at as a buyer. Still...this is going to be a VERY exciting show to attend!

My Colossal Middle Finger to Forbes Magazine

Forbes, you've really done it this time.

Did we collectively urinate in your bowl of Lucky Charms? Are you all Steeler fans? Or New Yorkers trying to persuade LeBron?

Seriously, giving us one negative award is one thing, but to curse us the way you have in the past month is over the line, overly negative, and most of all, wrong.

So, we Cleveland bloggers decided to take action. Just see the public support of Cleveland on Twitter.

Instead of listing the countless reasons why Cleveland rocks, which has already been said in numerous posts and Tweets, I'll just sum up my thoughts in one photo, posted above.

Yes Forbes, you've pissed off an ENTIRE city and you're gonna feel its wrath.

Oh by the way, I'm VERY Happy in CLE!

Brand Image Through Autos: Does it Matter to You?

Here's something that may shock you: There really isn't that much of a difference between a fully loaded Ford Fusion and its Lincoln sibling, the MKZ. Sure, the sheetmetal is a little different and there are different accents and touches in the interior, but option-for-option, a loaded Fusion is basically the same car for about $10k less. It's the same across the board: A Lexus model based off of a Camry isn't much different from the fully loaded Camry, and same with the Chevy Malibu and its Buick cousin, the LaCrosse. Ditto with the Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS.

So, basically, you're paying $10k for a brand name and an uglier grille (in my opinion). But...is it important to you to pay that extra $10k? More importantly, WHY is it important to you? Are you just trying to show off? Keep up with the Joneses? Or is your reason legitimate?

In business, it might be valuable to pay extra for a higher-end brand. Why? You don't want to project too much success as a business person because that says to a client "so this is where my dollars are being spent" (Cadillac), but you don't want to appear too cheap (Chevrolet, no matter how loaded the car is...and LTZ model Chevrolets are very nice), so it's best to project an image right in the middle (Buick)...success, but not extravagance.

I've had this discussion both in my office and with people who have been in the real world longer than I have, so there ARE legitimate reasons to purchase the more expensive brand. The question is...is YOUR reason legitimate?

As for me, at this point in my life, I'm perfectly content with the loaded Chevrolet or Ford. Sensible luxury, living smart.

Why do I love Olympic Hockey but not the NHL?

It's going to be a pretty good week for this blog. Why? Cuz ol' Ammo actually has something to write about this week...both in sports and in talking cars because this weekend is AUTO SHOW WEEKEND!!!!

Anywho...we all know about just how awesome last night's USA/Canada hockey game was...forget the technical analysis of just how awesome USA's goalie was, this is all about how riveting and exciting Olympic hockey really is. See, I like hockey. I'm an aficionado of the Mighty Ducks movies, and would have played hockey in high school if it weren't for the $1000 pay-to-play fee that didn't apply for football. (That, and the 5 AM practice times. Sorry, it was hard enough to wake up for those 6:15 AM football running work outs twice a week, let alone over an hour earlier every day of the week.) But, I can never seem to get into the NHL.

There's some reasons behind that: There is no Cleveland team, and I'd rather saw my arm off than be a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins (which makes you question those Pittsburgh faithful who cheer for our Cleveland Cavaliers in basketball...see, Steeler fan, my loyalties run deeper than yours), but I can't even seem to get into the Columbus Blue Jackets either...and I've tried.

Olympic Hockey just seemed more exciting to watch...why is that? Is it because it was my country beating the snot out of the favorites in their home country? I don't know. All I know is I wish I could be this into hockey every year.

So, would the Blue Jackets like to move to Cleveland and re-christen themselves the Barons or a new, better name? (Let's be honest...Blue Jackets is a horrendous name and yes, I realize it will never happen because of the Monsters and the Cavs)

P.S. It's ok Canada, you still have Tim Hortons, clean streets and free healthcare.

Kevin Kolb for Shaun Rogers, where do I sign?

I have to pat myself on the back on this one.

The talk of the day among Cleveland sports fans (during the driest spell of the year) has been the article by Michael Lombardi located here.

But, the day before I posted a Tweet offering up the same trade scenario, but for both McNabb or Kolb located here.

My thoughts? I'm all for it.

It's not that I don't like Shaun Rogers. I do. The thing is, the Browns need tradebait for a good QB. Brady Quinn is NOT going to cut it. Sorry folks who think Captain Checkdown is going to ride in shirtless on a white horse named Buttercup and save the day. It won't happen. He's too inaccurate. And trading Shaun Rogers does not hurt the defense as much as people think...in fact it might help it.

Yes, Rogers makes spectacular plays, but he also gambles and gets himself out of position. In a defense designed based on gap responsibilities and "team defense," Rogers' style of play hurts. In fact, the Browns' run defense noticeably improved while Rogers was hurt. Is that a coincidence? I don't think so; we saw enough opponents that are effective at running the ball down the stretch.

It makes sense for Philly for the following reasons:

1) They have a surplus of QB's.

2) Rogers would rather play in a 4-3 defense. The 4-3 the Eagles play fits Rogers to a T.

3) The Eagles can never have too much front seven help.

It makes sense for the Browns because:

1) We desperately need a QB.

2) Our D actually improved WITHOUT Rogers.

3) See reason 1.

So what do you think, Browns Fan? I'm all for it. Nothing will improve this team better than good QB play. Period.

Super Bowl Edition: NO Idea Who to Root For!

Ladies and Gentlemen, ol' Ammo is in a bit of an awkward spot this year...

In past years, I've always had a team to cheer for (or vehemently against).

-2009: Cardinals (cuz the Steelers winning would cause mental trauma)

-2008: Patriots (cuz I wanted to see history made)

-2007: Colts (cuz I wanted Peyton to get the monkey off his back)

-2006: Seahawks (see: 2009 scenario...needless to say both these years I was in my own personal hell)

And so on...

This year? I have no team to cheer for or against. I like both these teams. They're both very fun to watch and both have awesome passing games. You have two QB's who can dominate a game and score in literally a minute, and neither team has a defense worth being in awe over like teams in the past.

So, how to pick?

Well kids, I'm going to choose using the "clueless people who don't know how to choose a team based on football reasons" logic. The kind of logic often chosen by tech nerd men and ditzy girls...the people who choose to root for a team cuz "Team A's jersey is more badass than Team B's" and so on. You know the kind. The kind that true football people roll their eyes at, if not get truly frustrated over. Well, I have to use this logic cuz neither team has much of an emotional pull for me.

So what's my logic for who to choose?

Commercials. And the sultan of NFL TV commercials is...you guessed it: Peyton Manning. My personal favorites being Peyton's Sprint NFL Mobile commercial and the MasterCard commercial where he cheers on his favorite butcher.

So, CUT THAT MEAT! CUT THAT MEAT! Go get em' Peyton!

Go Colts!