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Keepers: Volkswagen Golf GTI Mark II—Shopping

Christopher Smith — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:38:57 -0600

Locating a Mark II GTI in stock condition is about as difficult as eating chocolate pudding with chopsticks. The situation is further complicated by age; the newest Mark II GTI is still 17 years old, so when shopping for a GTI, standard used-car guidelines should be followed to the letter. The good news is that these cars are generally available in good condition for less than $5000, with “project cars” going for even less.
Rust will be your number one enemy; check strut towers and subframe mounting points to ensure they’re structurally sound. If the front seats seem to have some extra movement, the floorboards underneath could be rotted away. Check for rust around window seals and especially the rear hatch, as even minor rust can cause pesky water leaks. Sagging headliners and broken trim pieces also tend to plague older GTIs, and be extremely careful regarding mileage, as these cars are prone to intermittent odometer failure. Closely examine the condition of the pedals, seats, and steering wheel; excessive wear on those items likely means excessive miles on the car, regardless of what the odometer says. The GTI uses an interference engine, meaning that the pistons and valves will destroy themselves should the timing belt snap, so changing the belt should be a priority if the car’s history isn’t well known. Most Volkswagens from this time frame also have a history of electrical gremlins, so having some electrical knowledge will go a long way in alleviating frustrating glitches.

Replacement parts can be expensive—a factory oxygen sensor alone costs $100 so be prepared to invest some cash if you want to maintain a factory-original car. Ultimately, having an inkling for mechanical work and a knowledge of Volkswagen workings—or having such a mechanic close by—will make your relationship with these sometimes finicky hot hatchbacks much more livable.

GTIs were offered with a couple different versions of Volkswagen’s 1.8 liter four-cylinder. In 8-valve format, the little mill made 100 horsepower, while the DOHC 16-valve engine pumped out 123 horses. A slightly-larger version of the 16-valve engine was introduced in 1990, bumped out to 2.0 liters and producing 134 horsepower, making the 1990-1992 16-valve cars the Mark II GTIs of choice. Of course, that all depends on finding a stock GTI, which has already been mentioned as something of a challenge. Body kits, big-brake upgrades, headlight conversions and engine swaps are rampant throughout the GTI marketplace, though the main issues mentioned above should hold true despite the level of modification. Fortunately, the GTI community is packed with enough technical info and group support to sustain even the least-informed GTI enthusiast, and we’ll introduce that community in the next Keepers installment.

+ NextAutos Forums: Mark II GTI

+ Keepers : Volkswagen Golf GTI Mark II

+ Keepers: Mustang SVT Cobra

BMW 550i Gran Turismo Priced From $64,725

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:50:46 -0600

BMW's polarizing new 5-Series Gran Turismo hits U.S. dealerships on December 5th, with the 550i GT model being the only variant initially offered. The base price? $64,725. Look for an xDrive variant to come early next year, as well as the 535i GT, featuring an all-new turbocharged inline-six (not the twin-turbo six that we've grown oh so fond of in recent years).

This MSRP slots the 550i GT between the V-8-powered X6 and 750i, but things can start to get rather pricey when options are tacked on. We highly recommend the sport package ($4200) and the optional twenty-inch wheels ($1000), as they vastly improve the 5GT's overall appearance and driving dynamics. Be sure to grab the luxury rear seating package, too ($3950) as it's one of the nicest BMW rear setups we've ever sat in. Seriously -- it's more luxurious than a long-wheelbase 7-Series.

For the full press release and options list, click through the post. And in the meantime, be sure to read our review of the 550i Gran Turismo in the latest issue of Winding Road.

+ First Drive: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo

BMW ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE 2010 BMW 550i GRAN TURISMO

The 550i Gran Turismo arrives in showrooms with an MSRP of $64,725.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 18, 2009... BMW today announced pricing for the first of its 5 Series Gran Turismo models to reach US shores. The 550i Gran Turismo will be available beginning December 5, 2009 with a base MSRP of $64,725, including $825 Destination & Handling.

The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a new interpretation of a classic concept offering, in this case, luxury seating for four or five in combination with remarkably flexible storage options. 550i Gran Turismo will combine the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with BMW's first-ever 8-speed automatic transmission. With maximum output of 400 horsepower and peak torque of 450 lb-ft., the 550i Gran Turismo will accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.

The 550i Gran Turismo provides a luxurious travelling experience for five. The available Luxury Rear Seating Package creates the ultimate first class environment for two rear passengers. The unique dual-access tailgate offers the choice of a tradition trunk opening or full tailgate access to the generous rear luggage area.

A full list of options and packages may be found below.

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo Available Packages:

    * Active Ventilated-seat Package $2,950
    * Back-up Camera Package $750
    * Convenience Package $1,900
    * Cold Weather Package $950
    * Driver Assistance Package $1,350
    * Luxury Rear Seating Package $3,950
    * Premium Sound Package $1,400
    * Sport Package $4,200
    * Nappa Leather Package $1,000

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo optional equipment:

    * 20-inch wheels with mixed-sized performance tires $1,000
    * Power rear side window shades $500
    * Integral Active Steering $1,750
    * Multi-contour seats $1,300
    * Satellite radio $350
    * Rear seat entertainment system $2,200
    * Smartphone integration $150
    * 4-zone automatic climate control $500
    * Ceramic finished controls $650
    * Ski bag $150
    * iPod and USB adapter $400
    * Head-up display $1,300
    * Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection $2,600

North American Mazda2 To Debut At L.A. Show

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:13:23 -0600

Mazda has announced that the North American spec Mazda2 (known in Japan as the Demio) will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month. The subcompact hatchback has been successful in other parts of the world, and will begin to be offered in the U.S. and Canada late next year.

Does this, as well as the arrival of the Ford Fiesta, spell a new trend in the future U.S. auto market?

See the Japanese version in the gallery above, or scroll down for the press release from Honda.

North American Mazda2 to Debut at 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the Mazda2 (known as Mazda Demio in Japan) at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The globally-acclaimed Mazda2 brings a level of style and driving dynamics to the North American subcompact segment that no other competitor can offer. The vehicle will be sold in the U.S. and Canada beginning in late 2010. The LA Auto Show press days are December 2-3; public days run from December 4 through 13.

“Bringing Mazda2 to North America completes the bookends in our lineup,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “With the seven-passenger crossover CX-9 at one end and the subcompact Mazda2 at the other, Mazda’s lineup now spans the most significant product segments in the industry, and is the strongest, best-designed, best-built we have ever offered. Mazda2 will be true to everything that makes our cars stand apart from the competition: it will be stylish, fun-to-drive and a heck of a value. In short, it will be the definition of Zoom-Zoom.”

Mazda2 has been a sales and media success in markets around the world, winning 48 awards and being recognized as Car of the Year in more than 20 countries. Additionally, Mazda2 was named “2008 World Car of the Year,” besting all other new cars around the world.

Mazda’s press conference is scheduled to take place from 11:05 to 11:30 (local time) on Wednesday, December 2, 2009.

Main Exhibits
Scheduled for sale Mazda2 North American specification (North American premiere)
Models currently on sale Mazda3, Mazdaspeed3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5, Mazda RX-8,
Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9

Porsche Announces 911 GT3 R

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:47:40 -0600

Porsche has announced the 911 GT3 R. Based on the GT3 Cup S, it is powered by a 480-horsepower, 4.0-liter flat-six. Porsche promises better driveability and easier handling than its predecessor, thanks to ABS, traction control, and throttle blip, making it “more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver.”

The 911 GT3 R is scheduled to debut on January 14, 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. It is priced at the current equivalent of $414,950.

See it in the gallery above, or read the press release below.

New Racing Version for International GT Sport  Stuttgart. Following the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is entering yet another racing car in the 2010 motorsport season: The 911 GT3 R will be raced in series based on the international FIA GT3 regulations, thus succeeding the 911 GT3 Cup S. The main focus in developing this new model was on even better drivability and even easier handling.  The 911 GT3 R is powered by a four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine delivering maximum output of 480 bhp (353 kW) transmitted to the rear axle by a sequential six-speed dog gearbox.  The starting point in developing the 911 GT3 R weighing just 1,200 kg or 2,646 lb was the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup presented in September for one-make cup racing. Thanks to its increase in engine size by 0.2 litres, the GT3 R offers 30 bhp more than the Cup model. Both cars are based on the extra-wide body of the 911 GT3 RS street-legal sports car.  An anti-lock brake system (ABS), traction control and an e-gas with "throttle-blip" function make it much easier to get used to this new GT3 racing car than its predecessor, meaning that the new model is also more appropriate for the ambitious amateur racing driver.  Flared wheel arches added on to the body both front and rear bear clear testimony to the wider track than on the former model. And like all second-generation versions of the 911, the new 911 GT3 R also comes with striking LED rear light clusters.  The Porsche 911 GT3 R is making its world debut on 14 January 2010 at the Birmingham Motor Show. The car is built by Porsche's Motorsport Department at the Weissach Development Centre and will be delivered to Customer Teams the world over as of spring 2010. The base price of the Porsche 911 GT3 R is 279,000 euros plus local sales tax/VAT.

Spy Shots: BMW 1-Series Hybrid In Adorable Hatchback Form

John Beltz Snyder — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:58:19 -0600

Lately, we’ve seen many examples of updated BMWs coming through the espionage pipeline. These latest spy shots, though, aren’t just another appearance update.

Take a close look at the sticker on the window and under the license plate. It reads, in plain English, “Hybrid Test Vehicle.” Caught in Munich, the 1-series appears to be following in the tire tracks of the 7-Series and X6 ActiveHybrid models we have already seen.

We’ll be sure to keep you posted with any more news on the 1-Series hybrid.

Click through the gallery above to see the BMW 1-Series hybrid prototype, or scroll down for the shooter’s comments.

The first hybrid prototypes for the BMW 1-series are up and running now. It’s been 3 weeks since we first spotted this 1-series hybrid prototype and ever since then it’s been playing hide and seek with us, but now we finally got it in front of the camera lens. The problem as a carspy with a prototype like this is that it doesn’t look different to the other 2000 silver painted BMW 1 series driving around in Munich. Except for the “Hybrid Test Vehicle” stickers on the rear side windows and on the rear bumper.

With Lexus announcing that their 1-series rival will only be available in Hybrid form, it’s about time for BMW to develop their own version of a smaller Hybrid car. It’s not clear if the Hybrid version will be available in the current version already or if it first will come in the next generation 1-series. But then again, it would have made more sense to test it in that new generation since that one is already driving as prototype.

After the Hybrid versions of the 7 series and the X6, this is now the third Hybrid car from BMW. But remember, BMW has announced Hybrid versions of both the new 5 series and the upcoming 3 series as well.

Driven: 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring

Seyth Miersma — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:26:49 -0600

-Palm Springs, California

We're fresh from the driver's seat of the newest addition to the Lancer Evo fast family, the mildly more grown up MR Touring model. Mitsubishi has got a lot happening at its event in Palm Springs, California this afternoon (stay tuned for much more from this desert trip in coming days), but we felt we'd be remiss if we didn't check in with a few quick thoughts about the new Evo.

CLICK HERE to continue reading this review.

For those of you who haven't heard, the new Touring version of the Evolution is aimed at a slightly more mature buyer than its big-winged brothers. The standard Evo's tea-tray wing has been replaced here by a super subtle lip spoiler, making the car considerably less noticeable, right of the bat. Touring also receives a hot set of BBS wheels, a fully leather interior, a power sunroof, and heated Recaro buckets. Perhaps the most changing feature of the new Evo however, is the extra sound deadening material that has been stuffed in the car.

One of our biggest gripes with previous Evolutions was the raucous exhaust note that came throbbing out of the tailpipe, no matter how one worked to keep the revs down. Don't get us wrong; we love a spirited engine note as much as anyone-for a certain period of time. After a while, especially if doing any kind of suburban or urban humdrum driving, that blat from the back starts to wear on one's nerves. Touring has tackled this problem in a savvy way, leaving more than enough throatiness to enliven the senses, while seriously dialing back the low-speed thunder. It's a compromise that we think makes the Evo a better all-around car.

Thankfully, the loss of the huge wing and the addition of the sound-stopping stuff seemed to have more or less cancelled each other out from a weight standpoint. The new Evo is only about 30 pounds heavier than the standard MR, meaning the car feels as dynamically sound as ever. We didn't notice a bit of difference over our, admittedly short, scoot through the desert this afternoon-the Evo still felt hugely accelerative, sweet handing, and grippy.

The only obvious downside of the MR Touring (other than the lack of a manual transmission, still available in the GSR only) is the pretty hefty price tag. An MSRP of $40,990 brings the top-dog Lancer into the territory of some pretty refined competition. We have no problem seeing the Evo compete dynamically with the likes of BMW and Audi, but we're not sure the overall quality is there yet. Still, we smell some compelling comparison tests in future-this isn't the last you'll hear about the Evo MR Touring from the Winding Road team.

Video: Autonomous Audi TTS

John Beltz Snyder — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:57:36 -0600

The video below is of the Autonomous Audi TTS, a project with the goal of creating a TTS that drives itself. Click here for more information about the project.

+ NextAutos: Autonomous Audi TTS Drives Itself, Aims For Pike's Peak

Autonomous Audi TTS Drives Itself, Aims For Pike’s Peak

John Beltz Snyder — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:32:29 -0600

Audi, in what seems to be another step toward making humans obsolete, is developing an Autonomous Audi TTS, which may drive itself up Pike’s Peak late next year.

Audi promises, though, that the project “isn’t aimed at making motorists and the thrill of driving dispensable.” We believe you Audi, and we breathe a sigh of relief. The Autonomous TTS is meant to help improve driver assistance technologies, and what better way to do that than to create a car that needs no driver at all. Amazing what a GPS, drive-by-wire controls, and a big dose of math can achieve.

Click through the gallery above to see the Autonomous Audi TTS, or scroll down through the press release for more details. Click here to see the video.

Backgrounder on the Autonomous Audi TTS
PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov 18, 2009 - What once seemed to be the stuff of science fiction – a car that can safely operate without direct input from a driver – is rapidly moving from the realm of science fiction toward reality. This is being clearly demonstrated with the Autonomous Audi TTS coupe research project, which has become a sensation worldwide.

This car is the direct result of work underway at the Volkswagen Group Automotive Innovation Laboratory – or VAIL – a collaborative effort set up by the Volkswagen Group Electronics Research Laboratory in Palo Alto, Calif., and Stanford University to advance automotive technology.

The Autonomous Audi TTS project isn’t aimed at making motorists and the thrill of driving dispensable. Instead, it is intended to explore the best capabilities of current and future driver assistance technologies to help Audi enhance the experience behind the steering wheel for generations to come.

Dr. Burkhard Huhnke, executive director of the Electronics Research Laboratory, has noted that the technology found in the Autonomous Audi TTS could help dramatically reduce the number of fatalities worldwide. He also notes that it will help motorists respond more effectively to changing traffic conditions to reduce road congestion and allow better reactions to safety hazards. Taken to its logical potentil, Dr. Huhnke noted, the technology could return time to the cars‘ owners by taking care of routine driving chores, such as winding through a parking garage to an assigned spot each morning.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AUTONOMOUS AUDI TTS

WHY
To study how advancements in communications, driver assistance and other technologies can help motorists react to traffic and safety challenges on the road, including more autonomous handling of routine driving conditions like bumper-to-bumper congestion.

RESEARCH PARTNERS AND ROLES
Volkswagen Group Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL)
Convert a vehicle to drive by wire, develop a safety architecture to ensure a reliable autonomous drive with no safety driver, and implement Stanford control algorithms on a system jointly developed with Sun Microsystems.

Stanford University Dynamics Design Lab (SDDL), one of the member labs of VAIL -Volkswagen Group Automotive Innovation Laboratory
Develop robust control algorithms that enable the vehicle to drive at the limits of handling on a variety of surfaces, and lets it drive in various speeds and conditions.

Sun Microsystems
Specify a hardware platform that can run Stanford’s real time algorithms and develop a framework that enables Real Time Java (Java RTS), a combination of technologies that use the Java programming language developed by Sun Microsystems to provide a system for developing application software and deploying it in a cross-platform environment, to communicate with the vehicle CAN wiring harness and autonomous driving control system.

WHERE
The VAIL partnership is based in Palo Alto, Calif. USA. ERL and Stanford University are both located there

OBJECTIVES AND WHAT’S AHEAD
An Autonomous Audi TTS coupe that can navigate many types of driving situations. One intriguing demonstration under consideration for 2010 is a run up Colorado’s famous Pikes Peak to replicate the 12.4-mile Pikes Peak International Hill Climb where Audi has demonstrated its prowess in performance and handling. The non-competitive environment would allow the Autonomous TTS to show its capabilities at various speeds and conditions, including drifting.

The Autonomous Audi TTS is nicknamed after Michelle Mouton, arguably the most successful female rally driver to date who played a significant role in Audi Sport racing history.

TIMING
Currently in the testing phase, this vehicle and project continues its development for several still-to-be determined real-world driving challenges in 2010, including a possible drive up Pikes Peak in Q4/2010.

VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS
Official Name: Autonomous Audi TTS
Make and model: 2009 Audi TTS
Engine: 2.0 turbocharged FSI direct injection engine
Transmission: 6-speed S tronic double clutch transmission
Fuel Consumption: City 21 mpg / Highway 29 mpg / Combined 24
Power: 265 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 2500-5000 rpm
Top Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
Weight incl. sensor around 1470 kg / 3240 lbs

ABOUT DRIVE-BY-WIRE
Steering: Modified “APA-BS” (Axially Parallel Actuation-Braun-Schweig), a new production electric power steering system with direct by wire control through custom ERL Electronics.
Throttle: Electronics from VW ERL reproduce signals to emulate a driver pressing on the throttle.
Brakes: Active brake booster from Continental with by-wire control through ERL Electronics.
Gear: Modification of signals exchanged between transmission and gear shifter using custom ERL Electronics on production hardware.
Parking brake: Use of stock electric parking brake from VW Passat through a custom ERL electric interface utilized on a previous “Junior” project.

SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
In addition to multiple redundant systems for vehicle control and emergency shutdown, the autonomous TTS has a Solaris based system running a Real-Time Java System that monitors all sensors and actuators in the car and a Java RTS sub-system that can perform a vehicle shutdown if it determines conditions have become unsafe.

As a backup solution, the vehicle includes a telemetry system that can transmit all vehicle parameters to a receiving station up to 20 miles away, which can also shut down the vehicle remotely, or order the safety systems to engage and bring the car to a controlled stop.

SENSORS
The Autonomous Audi TTS utilizes an Applanix POS LV420 GPS and Inertial Measurement Unit to measure its position.

VEHICLE CONTROL
Hardware – two independent systems are being used in the Autonomous Audi TTS, the initial controller development is being done on an XPC target using Matlab and Simulink, both of which are the standard research tools from SDDL. The final vehicle controls are being run on ruggedized custom-built solutions running a Core2Duo CPU and Solaris operating system that is being developed in collaboration with Sun Microsystems.

Software – The SDDL is developing cutting-edge control algorithms that look to optimize the ability to control the vehicle under the most demanding circumstances. As these algorithms are finalized, they will be merged into a new framework. This framework is being developed at the ERL that shares many components with other ERL autonomous driving projects.

HOW MUCH
These projects are not designed around project cost, but to promote a leadership in the long-term regarding various real-world automotive topics.

Winding Road Issue 52 Is Now Available!

NextAutos Staff — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:47:21 -0600

These four hatchbacks are up to something, and we aim to find out what. See how these four fiery hatches behave when we bring them together to see who is the hottest. Plus, don’t miss all the other great content in this issue of Winding Road, including:

- 2010 BMW 5-Series GT
- 2010 Aston Martin Rapide
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
- Honda Fit vs. Smart ForTwo
- Living History: BMW M5 at the Nürburgring
- $40K Alternatives: Hyundai Genesis vs. Acura TL SH-AWD vs. Ford Taurus SHO
- SEMA 2009

This issue is packed with much, much more, so check it out in one of our two formats.

CLICK HERE to read this issue in our online viewer.
CLICK HERE to download an ad-free PDF from NextNewsStand.

And don't forget, you can buy a full subscription to Winding Road by clicking here. One year of ad-free, downloadable PDFs can be yours for the low, low price of only $4.99.

Driven: 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe, Sentra, and Versa Hatchback

John Beltz Snyder — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:28:11 -0600

We drive the 2010 Altima Coupe, Sentra Sedan, and Versa Hatchback back-to-back-to-back to see what the refreshed line is made of.

—Nashville, Tennessee

For 2010, a good portion of Nissan’s lineup has been refreshed. The Altima, Sentra, and Versa, were updated to compete with the ever-expanding sedan market. It had been a while since we’ve been behind the wheel of these three models, so we went down to Nissan’s American headquarters among the rolling, green hills of Tennessee to reacquaint ourselves, and to see what each model had to offer.

2010 Nissan Altima Coupe 2.5S

Definitely the sportiest of the Nissan news in terms of appearance was the 2010 Altima coupe, which drew us immediately. We admit, it’s a good-looking car. It appears confident, but not without a level of restraint. It still has the same form as the sedan, which itself is sleek yet not approaching aggressive. The wheelbase is shorter, and its more compact footprint and two-door profile give a hint of speed to the curve of the cabin.

CLICK HERE to continue reading this review.

The fresh, sporty appearance continues inside the vehicle. The dash, particularly over the air ducts, mimics the swooping lines of the exterior. Brushed aluminum accents and contrasting stitching throughout the cabin looks sharp, not stuffy. The instruments, dials, and controls incorporate a red lighting that jives well with the tone of the vehicle.

If only the engine could back up this sporty appearance. The 2.5-liter inline-four powering the Altima we drove puts out 175 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. Those sound like decent figures, and they are for most practical applications. But in a car that has been updated to convey the sportier look, we’d recommend trying out the new 3.5-liter V-6 version, which offers 270 horsepower, and 258 pound-feet.

To be quite honest, our perception of power delivery may have been tarnished by the continuously variable transmission, which may be new and exciting technology to some folks, but seems to suck most of the joy out of acceleration. Actually, the mating of this particular four-banger to this CVT wasn’t as grating and laborious-sounding a combination as we’ve seen before; in fact it was one of the best we’ve driven. We would still prefer to shift through gears, preferably manually. Nissan, however, expects six-speed manuals to compose a mere fraction of the sales for all models.

On the road, the Altima was smooth and composed. The suspension neutralized most bumps and irregularities in the road, and never felt like it was going to float away cresting over the many small hills on our drive route. Curvy roads were carved across easily, if numbly. Again, not really a sporting feel here either, though the Altima did provide a comfortable, calm ride along Tennessee backroads.

While the looks may have changed to exude more athleticism, the real Altima is more about comfort than anything else. For a car that does its duty without much fanfare, but with a slick new look and great value, the Nissan Altima is a fine automobile. But we, as usual, were looking to have a little more fun.

2010 Nissan Sentra 2.0

Approaching the new Nissan Sentra, the facelift isn’t anything profound. The 2.0 has a new grille and bumper, updated lights, and a new wheel design. Hopping inside, the interior has been touched with new fabrics and optional leather seats. Our also had the new navigation package, which we shall address in a bit.

On the road, the Sentra, though less powerful than the Altima we had just driven, seemed more true to its appearance. Its 2.0-liter four puts out 140 horsepower and 147 pound-feet of torque, and while it didn’t push the vehicle to speed any faster than its sibling, something about a roomier vehicle performing with almost as much gusto as the more powerful Altima coupe endeared us to it.

Speaking of gusto, the Sentra had it in other areas that the Altima did not. The steering offered the same amount of precision, and maybe even felt a little more elastic. But, at the same time, it communicated. The connection between hand and tire was more real, and it made for a bit more enthusiasm through the curves. The suspension was livelier, and conveyed more of the chatter of the road beneath us. On the same roads we had driven before, we realized we were having a more involving driving experience. Someone who doesn’t want to wrinkle his suit on the way to work might not appreciate the slightly-less polite Sentra, but we enjoyed it over the subdued nature of the Altima.

2010 Nissan Versa 1.8 SL Hatchback

We came to Nashville with high expectations for the Nissan Versa, having been impressed with what an under-$10k car was capable of when we tested the 1.6 Base on Michigan’s relatively flat, straight roads. Eagerly, we hopped behind the wheel of the slightly more functional, more powerful SL hatchback, with its 1.8-liter inline-four.

The exterior changes are minimal on the Versa; only the grille and wheels have been updated. The interior has undergone some noticeable enhancement. The new materials have are eye-catching and hand-magnetizing. The audio layout in the center has an attractive, mature appearance. In all, it was a welcome refresh to the interior, and one that is certain to resonate with buyers looking for value.

Power is ample in the 1.8-liter engine, but again, we encountered that damned CVT. Having driven the five-speed manual version previously, we would opt for that gearbox for two main reasons: First, it gives us more control and involvement. Secondly, the CVT, especially when driven hard, maintains an unchanging, whiny growl, as though the engine is screaming for mercy. We’ll take a composed, rising engine tone over that noise any day.

Hitting those same hilly, winding roads in the Versa, we found the closest thing all day to what we are always looking for, a joyful, engaging romp in a willing vehicle. The steering feel surpassed that of the Sentra, and was perhaps the opposite of the Altima. The Versa happily rotated when we asked it, and we always had a sense of the direction of the wheels and what was passing beneath them. The suspension was the same way, only with less body roll than the Sentra. Sure, it wasn’t as powerful as the other cars we piloted, but we were able to have a lot more fun in the Versa, like reconnecting with an old friend.

The thing that makes the Versa fantastic, though, is its value. The hatchback version of the Versa, with a six-speed manual and 1.8-liter engine, starts at a mere $13,150. If you can live with the sedan body style, the 1.6 Base, which comes with a five-speed manual, is only $9990 (only the Hyundai Accent Blue 3-Door can be had for less, at $9970). Less than ten grand for a new car that is actually mildly entertaining to drive? Not a bad place to start shopping.

Another added value for the 2010 Sentra and Versa models is the availability of Nissan’s new $400 touch-screen navigation and audio system, developed in partnership with Bosch. It features Bluetooth telephone interface for hands-free calling. It has a USB input for an iPod or thumb drive, and auxiliary input for other audio. The unit displays XM traffic and radio, and the navigation interface features an “eco-route” system, which can give you directions to your destination that will use the least amount of fuel. An optional integrated backup camera is also available.

2010 Nissan Altima Coupe
Engine                     Inline-four, 2.5 liters, 16v
Output                     175 hp/180 lb-ft
Weight                     3080 lb
Cargo Capacity        8.2 cu ft
Fuel Economy        23 city / 31 hwy mpg
Base Price               $22,440

2010 Nissan Sentra
Engine                     Inline-four, 2.0 liters, 16v
Output                     140 hp/147 lb-ft
Weight                   2862 lb
Cargo Capacity        13.1 cu ft
Fuel Economy        24 city / 31 hwy mpg
Base Price               $15,420

2010 Nissan Versa 1.8 Hatchback
Engine                   Inline-four, 1.8 liters, 16v
Output                     122 hp/127 lb-ft
Weight                     2693 lb
Cargo Capacity        50.4 cu ft
Fuel Economy        26 city / 31 hwy mpg
Base Price               $13,150