ToniCipriani

The Crown Athlete is the only car from Toyota that I'm remotely interested in.

Classic. Can't wait to get them and torch them. Look closely at the video: bumper wobbles when it goes over potholes. Toyota build quality at best.

Chevrolet 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier VLX (My old car) 2002 Chevrolet Tracker (Test drive @ dealer) 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ V6 (GM TestFest @ CIAS) Pontiac 2006 Pontiac G6 SE V6 (duh... look at my sig...) 2006 Pontiac Wave 5-door (friend's car) Cadillac 2008 Cadillac CTS4 3.6DI (GM TestFest @ CIAS) Saturn 2008 Saturn Astra XE 5-door (GM TestFest @ CIAS)

No I didn't. We don't use RFID up here, and I don't have anything that's RFID-able. It's actually inconvenient for me to have that since we DO have a useful RFID payment system in Hong Kong, which would cause problems if I shielded mine.

Haha, thanks. Actually the first batch of card slots I made don't line up. And on a second thought I might want a tri-fold one instead. So I might make another one later on.

... with duct tape. I saw Ducti wants this thing for 20 bucks, I figured I make one myself for a roll of duct tape at the local dollar store...

Yeah, they had two booths, one over at MTCC upper level where the Malibu and CTS are, then another one right next to the Saturn area in MTCC South. They're giving out free gas cards for test drives.

I got a chance to test drive the Saturn Astra at the Autoshow this year, here's my review. 2008 Saturn Astra - The compact that should've been here four years ago XR Model Shown - Source: GM Media For starters, this isn't a new car. It's being sold all over Europe as the Opel Astra, UK as a Vauxhall Astra. The Astra commences imports this year. I was given an Astra XE 5-door. First impression was a big wow. Compared to the Ion, this was lightyears ahead. It's a big wonder why GM didn't think of this earlier. On a first glance, it was very roomy for a compact hatchback. I adjusted my seats, and there was still some legroom at the back. The test vehicle was equipped with a 4-speed automatic. Power from the 1.8L ECOTEC was adequate for city driving, but I wasn't taken onto the highway, and the tuning was definitely not sporty at all. I would expect with a manual it would be a much more pleasant drive, and also look out for the upcoming Astra Redline. Interior fit and finish was a huge leap from the Ion, but to be very honest, that wasn't saying much. I absolutely loved the full length sunroof. The wide view makes it excellent for trips out to the open for the starry sky. Criticisms include the switch controls, as well as the sound deadening. On first sight, the controls were confusing. The turn signals used electronic switches rather than traditional mechanical units, which did took some time to get used to. I guess on a long run this would be a good thing, since there's less mechanical wear. However, the same could not be said for the wipers. When you're in a storm and you want to flick your wipers all the way to full speed, you can't. You had to flick the lever 3 times before it went to full speed. Also, there's no indication on which setting you are on, which was a little confusing. Also the cabin noise was a bit too much for my taste. I would expect the noise level to be right for the Redline, but I would prefer a little more deadening on the base and family models. Overall impression was good for the car. It would be a nice seller if it's priced right, and It's a good start for Saturn, to pave way to completely convert over to Opels. At least it's a nice leap from the North American Focus. You hear that, Ford? 2008 SATURN ASTRA XE 5-DOOR (Source: GM, Unless otherwise stated) Base Price: $17,900 As Tested: $22,630 Options: * Heated Seats, Driver and Passenger * Dual Panel Power Sunroof * 16" Twin-spoke wheels - Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, Shifter Knob and Handbrake - Steering Wheel Audio Controls * Vehicle Class: 5-Door Subcompact hatchback, 5 seats * Powertrain Layout: Front Engine FWD * Engine: 1.8L ECOTEC I-4 with Variable Valve Timing * Power Output: 138hp @ 6300RPM * Torque: 125lb-ft @ 3800RPM * Transmission: 4-speed Automatic * Tires: P225/50R16 Touring Blackwall * Curb Weight: 2921 lbs. * Wheelbase: 102.9 in * Length: 170.5 in * Width: 69.0 in. * Height: 55.8 in. * Cargo Area: 345.5L / 12.2 cu. ft. * Fuel Economy: 34 MPG City, 43 MPG Highway (Source: EnerGuide Canada) * Warranty: 3 years / 60,000km * Assembly: Antwerp, Belgium

I still don't understand why this car can coexist with the Altima. If you want upscale, there's the Skyline.

Then every friggin car (not crossover or truck) in the Cadillac lineup should be called a CTS...

I'm not really opposing the use of CTS, but it's just that CTC and CTW sounds weird. Just call it CTS Coupe or CTS Wagon. An M5 or E Class wagon is still badges as such. I'm not entirely sure the C and W is explicitly required, since the body style is obvious.

Ever since my car started locking and unlocking when I shift in and out of Park, I've rarely used the central locking switch.

I hope there are actual names coming... CTC and CTW are just stupid.

Order guide of the 2008 G8 http://eogld.ecomm.gm.com/NASApp/domestic/...6090&type=0

I couldn't help but to think it looks like a refreshed 10 year old Euro Mazda 626...

I like it. But again I like the new Chrysler vans in the first place.

For some strange reason, this picture reminded me of Mitsubishi...

What a great way to start the month: new Corolla in XRS trim. In person looks like they took the old one, throw it in a furnace and let the thing melt.

Source: http://news.windingroad.com/auto-news/chev...te-zr1-on-blog/ http://fastlane.gmblogs.com/archives/2008/...rst_nigh_1.html

So they've now managed to put SIDI into a pushrod?

...GL8 Firstland. http://cgi.ebay.ca/1-18-China-Buick-GL8-Fi...7QQcmdZViewItem And while we're add it, let's throw in a nice Park Avenue as well. http://cgi.ebay.ca/1-18-2007-New-Buick-Par...oQQcmdZViewItem

Not really a good source of information, but on Wikipedia there's a list of parts from the Solstice. The current gen is just thrown together from GM's parts bin: I guess that explains why the Solstice looks like it's an afterthought.

Did they just use the engine cover off a VE now? It looks like the Holden badge fit that circle.

Limited production?

Neither? Now just if they bring on the NG G6 as well... Pontiac will be back in healthy condition.