GM to investors: Reach for the Sky (and Solstice)

With the increased likelihood of bankruptcy looming, cash-strapped General Motors would be open to selling off part of its manufacturing capacity to another carmaker, and even let buyers cherry pick some individual car lines, according to President and CEO Fritz Henderson.

Speaking in response to questions at a news conference this morning, Henderson said GM would entertain offers on Saturn manufacturing plants and models in addition to the dealer and distribution network.

Asked specifically about the Wilmington, Delaware plant that produces the Saturn Sky and Pontiac Solstice and coupes, Henderson said the carmaker would be “very open to this and would encourage it.”

He quickly added the company has had no offers for the plant, or any other manufacturing capacity. GM has reported a number of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the Saturn distribution channel.

According to GM data, Saturn sold just 871 Sky roadsters in the first four months of 2009. Pontiac had a stronger showing, selling 1,206 Solstices during the same time, though that number total also includes the coupe. While purchasing the assembly line and cars doesn’t ensure large sales volume, it could enable a small company to enter the sports car market and develop their own models.

Before making GM an offer, do take note that neither the Sky nor Solstice are Consumer Reports Recommended models. Both proved unimpressive against competing models in our testing—though the turbo version is better—and Predicted Reliability is much worse than average. 

That said, it could be the chance of a lifetime to acquire the ownership rights, manufacturing assets, and factory talent, and turn them into the car of your dreams. Assuming deep pockets, what would you do with the Wilmington plant?

—Jim Travers

Saab convertible drivers weather the storm, top down

The results of my latest unscientific motoring survey are in, and they’re pretty interesting--at least to me.

But first, some clarification. My so-called surveys are not to be confused with the highly regarded, scientific studies Consumer Reports is known for, run by the esteemed professionals in our National Research Center.

No, mine are conducted by making observations along a randomly selected group of roads I like to call my daily commute. In the interest of science, I sometimes include a trip to the grocery store on the way home.

That said, on to the results:

Saab convertible owners seem to spend more of their time cruising with their tops down than drivers of other ragtops, especially in the early days of spring here in the northeast. A sunny day with temperatures in the 40s will find Saabophiles motoring happily along with the wind in their woollies and tuques, presumably with heated seats and capable Swedish heaters cranked all the way up. It’s as if their cars’ Nordic roots have rubbed off on them.

Drivers of convertibles from other makes often seem to be seeking more of a sense of style than seeking to engage their own senses, and prefer to motor around with tops and windows sealed shut.

You have to admire the Saab owners’ carefree spirits, even as their chosen marque faces an uncertain future. Both parent company General Motors and the Swedish government have ruled out helping to save the carmaker, although GM has pledged to share technology with the company for five years--assuming either of the two are around to share anything.

Maybe it’s just as well that GM has lost interest or funding to keep Saab going. Saabs, much like their owners, have always been a bit quirky. That quirkiness, along with innovative engineering that included early adaptation of front-wheel drive, turbocharged engines, and emphasis on designing for safety, was always part of the Saab appeal. And both the quirkiness and the engineering have been watered down since the General stepped in.

Perhaps if the brand can be sold to investors who put a priority on bringing back some of that innovative spirit and distinctive personality, there’s a future for Saab.

Time will tell. For now, ride on, Saab fans. And keep the top down or moonroof open, whatever the future brings.

--Jim Travers

Pricing: 2010 Mini Cooper convertible

Mini has revealed more details about the new Cooper convertible that was unveiled at the 2009 Detroit auto show. The price for the base model is $24,550 and the S version is $27,450, including the $650 destination and handling charge. Orders are now being taken with the first deliveries starting at the end of March.

Like the first generation convertible, a sliding feature allows the car to be driven with the top partially open, and the top can be opened or closed at speeds up to 18 mph. The new convertible uses a single rollbar behind the rear seats to protect the passengers in the event of a rollover; the company also suggests the new design will improve rearward visibility. Mini claims the car will provide increased cargo space, though the practical gains are incremental.

The convertible is offered in two trim lines: base and S. Both are powered by a four-cylinder gas engine, with the thrifty base engine producing 118 horsepower; the turbocharged S has 172 horsepower.

Learn more about the Mini Cooper convertible in our preview coverage, and see our road test and Ratings on the hardtop models.

--Liza Barth

2010 Ford Mustang pricing – under $21K

As the days count down to the 21st-century muscle car showdown between the Dodge Challenger, Chevrolet Camaro, and Ford Mustang, Ford has released pricing for its updated 2010 pony. The base coupe will start at $20,995 (not including destination charges) when it goes on sale this spring. The convertible six-cylinder model will begin at $25,995. These figures are just a few hundred dollars above the current 2009 model.

The ’10 Mustang prices compare well against reborn rivals Challenger ($21,820) and upcoming Camaro ($22,995), however those cross-town coupes pack a lot more punch. Where the Mustang brings 210 horsepower in the base car, the Challenger has 250 hp and the Camaro has 300. In fairness, the Mustang weighs significantly less, and the final judgment will come on the track.

The V8-powered Mustang GT coupe is priced at $27,995, with the convertible at $32,995. The V6 and GT models will be available again with a factory-installed glass roof option for $1,995.

The mighty, 540-horsepower Shelby Mustang GT500 coupe is priced at $46,325, with the convertible version at $51,225. As the price increase suggests, there are significant cosmetic and performance enhancements throughout with this low-production variants.

We have found the current Mustang GT to be fast and fun, though the V6 version isn’t as exciting and the engine is coarse. Without a new base engine, we’re not enthused about the base-model powertrain. However, we were critical of the current cheap interior, and the new model has an upgraded cockpit addressing some of its short comings. Without question, we look forward to testing the Mustang and the other potent pony cars, soon as we buy them.

Learn more about the 2010 Ford Mustang and Shelby Mustang GT500 in our New Car Preview.

—Jeff Bartlett

How to buy the best convertible for you

Buying a convertible is all about enjoying an open-air driving experience, and some drop-top models are truly fun to drive. On the downside, convertibles inherently require compromises, such as accepting cramped seats, limited cargo capability, and reduced (top up) visibility. Our latest video, ratings, and buying advice can help you to choose the best convertible for your needs and budget.

When looking for a convertible, there are a few things to consider—the type of driving you do, , how much power and sportiness you want, and how many people you will likely transport. Also, the choice between a soft or hard top might dictate the model you choose. Price and fuel economy are also important considerations, especially in this tough economy.

There are a number of convertible types to choose from—roadsters, luxury, and mainstream convertibles. Roadsters are two-seaters that tend to be small, fun and fast. Creature comforts aren’t a priority. Luxury convertibles offer a balance of performance, comfort, and a fun driving experience, but are quite expensive. If you want open-air driving at an affordable price, mainstream is the way to go. These  popular models, such as the Chrysler Sebring and Ford Mustang, can seat four people, though the rear seats aren’t the most comfortable. Cargo space is also compromised in convertibles, especially when the top is down. (For road tests and videos on some of the most recent convertibles, read our group test "Friendlier Skies" featuring the BMW 328i, Chrysler Sebring, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, Pontiac G6, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Eos, and the Volvo C70.)

Summer and fall are perfect times to enjoy a top-down driving experience. If you’re feeling the itch, check out our convertible buying advice video for tips on how to choose a convertible, and what you should consider before you make a purchase.

For more details, visit our convertibles section with more buying advice and complete ratings, or browse our convertible personal picks parts 1 and 2.

—Liza Barth

                                                                                                           

                   

Personal picks—Convertibles, round 2

Back in April when we published our picks of the recent crop of drop-tops, a reader posted this comment: “With 75% of VW Beetle convertible buyers [being] women and 68% Camry Solara convertible buyers women, it would have been nice to hear what your women testers thought of these cars.”

Fair question. So we tracked several female Cars staffers and asked them which convertibles they’d most like to see in their driveways. Here are their responses:

Jennifer Stockburger: The truth is, with two little kids, coupes and convertibles are a bit tougher to classify than other vehicle types into my "Personal Picks." But, if I fast-forward a few years to a time when moving child seats and backpacks in and out won’t be such a concern, I think I’d have to go with the Volkswagen Eos.

From the first time I saw it on the show floor at the New York Auto Show a couple of years ago, I loved its styling and hoped performance would come to match it. Following our testing, it not only proved a good performer, but included many really well thought-out additions that set it apart from the rest. Things like the sunroof, the iPod dock and the really nicely finished interior make you want to show this car off. It’s easy to love. The biggest thing to get used to, for me, would be the initial lag in the throttle response. Though the car does seem to be marketed toward a younger driver, who’s to say that a middle-aged Mom (like me) won’t be just as happy in it?

Shawn Sinclair: The first car I owned was a 1976 MG Midget. Once I got most of the Lucas parts replaced and worked out a few other problems, the car was a blast to drive. In this convertible group, I find myself migrating toward the VW Eos and the BMW 328i. I really liked the Eos even though it has a few quirks. Regarding the BMW, it’s a nice car to drive, but if I had $50K to spend on a convertible, it would be a Chevrolet Corvette. However, the model that trumps them all is one with a reasonable price and is fun to drive: Look no further than the Mazda Miata.

Liza Barth: I agree with Jennifer that choosing a convertible would be the last car type that I would think of considering since I have a toddler and another baby on the way, but it may be something to consider in another stage of life. The Eos is definitely a car I could live with (if it were just my husband and I driving, since the back seat is snug). I also like the BMW 328i as it was fun to drive and has a sporty feel, but I can’t imagine spending $50k on a car with a small trunk and cramped rear seats. I guess I’m just too practical.

Personal picks—convertibles

To say that we're all not eagerly anticipating warm spring breezes here in Connecticut at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center would be a gross understatement. The gray, cold weather is quickly turning to warm, bright skies and the 300 acres surrounding our track is becoming green again.

Slogging through the winter with these cars wasn't exactly joyful. Even with heated seats on several of these models, I wasn't tempted to drop the top until the temperature reached at least 50-degrees F. Finally, we can all drive the convertibles from the May issue with the tops down and truly enjoy the open-air experience.

With that in mind, here are our Personal Picks for convertibles.

—Mike Quincy

Tom Mutchler: This is a tough group to pick a favorite, mostly because my favorite cars in this group leave me feeling ambivalent (and somewhat poor). The BMW 328i feels just like a coupe, making it the best to drive of this bunch. Problem is, it's just barely under $50K even if you go light on the options. That's serious money.

I could console myself with our $37,000 Volkswagen Eos. It makes the more-expensive Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70 convertibles seem redundant. I would go with a base-level Turbo with leatherette and DSG for under $31K.

But driving with the top down isn't fun unless the car itself is fun, and I don't want to break the bank. My solution: a used 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Yeah, it only has two seats. And unlike later Miatas, the 2006 isn't available with Mazda's clever folding hardtop that improves visibility and noise without giving up trunk room or adding much weight. But all of the back seats in these cars are near worthless, and the Miata's manual top is the best out there. Surfing on AutoTrader, I can find a loaded 2006 Miata Grand Touring with stability control for around $19,000 with under 20,000 miles on the clock. That's a lot of fun for the money.

Gabe Shenhar: These convertibles are really not my type of car. If there's a choice between the open-top car and a coupe version, I’d always go with the more solid and rigid structure of the one with the fixed roof. For me, I can’t imagine a Porsche 911 with an open top or a BMW M3 convertible. If I already sacrificed practicality, it might as well be for some serious driving fun.

But let's say my kind of fun is having some wind in my hair and catching some rays, rather than blasting down a race track. In that case, I have two favorites. If money was not much of an object it would be the BMW 328i. First of all, it looks gorgeous; second, it drives every bit as wonderfully as its sedan counterpart with a sweet powertrain and a rewarding chassis that's agile and easy to control. Third, for a convertible, it's astoundingly free of the typical nasty body shakes of most drop-tops.

But the BMW, mind you, (and this is a 328i without the sports package) is scratching the $50K mark. This is where my rational choice comes: I'll take the $35,000 Volkswagen Eos. It's easy to consider it merely a Jetta convertible, but the Eos is actually a sophisticated, upscale car with a plush cabin. It's quick, gets good fuel economy, and the automated manual dual-clutch gearbox gives it a sporty character with its quick shifts and an interesting soundtrack. The Eos has a sunroof-only mode, which I find extremely useful when you don't feel like stopping, waiting and fussing with the full-blown, top down experience.

Mike Quincy: Honestly, none of these really lit my fire. The 'fun' factor must be high to put up with the inherent drawbacks of a convertible: noise, limited trunk space, and usually shaky structure. And while the 328i convertible is a refined and "nice" car, it’s not fun—and for less money, I’d get a 335i sedan and probably enjoy the drive more. Back to fun: I’ll take a Mazda Miata any day of the week. It is so perfectly balanced in its handling, steering response, amazingly satisfying shifter, and its just-enough-horsepower. But if I had to have a couple miniscule rear seats (my two young sons like convertibles), I’d choose a Ford Mustang GT. Amazing V8 sound, classic looks, and more-than-just-enough-horsepower. In fact, there are gobs of it. And that’s always fun.

For more on this convertibles group, read the road tests and also watch our car review videos.

The Ultimate Reading Room - BMW owner's manual

The owner's manual for our BMW 328i convertible weighs close to three pounds, contains 566 pages, and measures 7x8x2 inches. (All specifications verified within our mobile electronics lab.) It is also the first owner's manual I can recall that won't fit in any interior storage compartment of the vehicle for which it's designed.

I discovered this when I went looking for it for some tidbit of operational instruction, and started my search with the glove box—which is, after all, a far more likely spot to find the manual than, well, say, a pair of gloves. No dice. Next, I tried the door pockets, the console compartment, and, in desperation, under the front seats. Nope. I finally found it where a previous driver had left it, tucked up into the passenger footwell, leaning against the transmission tunnel.

In all fairness to BMW, we're talking about a lot of information here. They do make sophisticated vehicles with complicated controls. So much so that there are actually seven manuals, including the main manual and separate ones for vehicle care; the radio (26 pages); service and warranty; safety tips; and a driver reference guide. Think of the reference guide as sort of an abbreviated manual for those too busy to read all 325 pages of manuals - a CliffsNotes, if you will. There's also a 152-page road atlas, an 80-page dealer directory, a four-page accident assistance form, and a BMW club membership flyer. They ought to include another membership card for a reading circle. It all gets packaged in a nice leather case with no place to go.

Nowhere in any of this information did I come across any helpful tips as to what to do with the manual when one is not reading it, but I might have missed it. I didn't miss the part in the introduction where they encourage you to "pass over" the manual to the new owner if you ever choose to sell the car. Not 'leave it in the car", but pass it over. They don't say what to do with it in the mean time.

My colleague, Senior Automotive Engineer Tom Mutchler, our resident interior guru (with a related masters degree, to boot), tells me BMW is not alone with manuals growing so bloated you can't keep them in the car. He said several Infiniti models we've tested recently have a Velcro pouch in the trunk for their manuals. I guess I didn't notice because their controls are more logical than the 328's, so I never had to go looking for reference help. 

In the end, the best, and perhaps only place for the manual is in the trunk. That way, it can double as a wheel chock in a pinch. At least our 328i isn't equipped with the dreaded iDrive. Then we'd probably need a trailer.

—Jim Travers

Read our road test of the BMW 328i and other convertibles, complete with videos. No manual required.

Wintertime of our convertible discontent

We're working on a test group of four-seater convertibles for the May issue, just in time for the start of top-down season here in the Northeast.  But we're driving the cars around now, and it's gray, dreary, and cold outside. And on this particular day, it's raining hard enough to make Noah consider taking the Ark out of retirement. (Unlike other magazines or Web sites, we don't jet off to some sunny place with a fleet of borrowed ragtops to write a story.)

Then again, most of the cars in this group have folding hardtops. Part of the spin surrounding these complicated convertibles is that hardtops provide better interior isolation from noise and harsh weather. So despite the winter doom and gloom, we should be as happy as (hard-shell) clams, right?

Maybe not. Things started badly, right from when we picked up our Pontiac G6 GT at the dealer. The salesman took care to demonstrate the luggage blind; like most modern convertibles, you need to have a sliding cover in place in the trunk before the car allows you to fold the power top. This reduces trunk space, but it also prevents you from crushing your luggage with the top, or the top with your luggage. He lifted up the trunk lid, stuck his arm in to show how the blind worked - and then the heavy deck lid closed down on his arm. Seems our deck lid couldn't keep itself up. (We eventually got that fixed. And the salesman's arm was fine.)

Then the noises settled in. When it was cold, multiple noises and creaks came from the hardtop. Our G6 wasn't the only convertible in the fleet to do this; loud, nearly-continuous creaks came from the interface between the roof and windshield header in our hardtop Chrysler Sebring Limited convertible, as well. That's assuming you can hear them over the wind noise, suspension groans, or the luggage blind rattling around in the trunk. One logbook comment says that the Sebring is "noisier than a pickup truck loaded with plastic pipe."

The Sebring had another annoying problem. Like some other coupes, the power windows drop about an inch when you open the door. This lets cabin air out as you slam the big door, making it easier to shut the frameless glass against the weather stripping. But the windows developed a mind of their own - or maybe just plain lost it. Sometimes the window wouldn't automatically go all the way up. Other times the window seemed to freeze in place, so you had to slam the door to get it to close fully. Slamming the window across the weather stripping makes a sound like something is going to break. And once when parked and running, all four windows dropped about 3 inches on their own, as if the top was about to lower on its own.

So, are hardtops where it's at, modern convertible-speaking? One big plus: they do allow designers to put in larger rear windows. Our soft-top Mitsubishi Eclipse convertible is at the opposite extreme. The Eclipse's rear window is a narrow slit. Even backing it out of my narrow garage is scary and almost requires a seeing-eye dog to pull off this mundane task.

Like many things in the automotive world, how well a technology works depends on its execution. The Jaguar XK convertible we tested had a soft top that was nearly as quiet as some coupes. Our Saab 9-3 2.0T soft-top convertible isn't particularly noisy, and it has a decent sized rear window.

One last thought: even though it makes a car more desirable to rent during a Florida vacation, turning a crummy sedan into a crummy convertible doesn't make it better. 

Would someone please order a batch of warm, sunny weather? Soon. Life is too short to have a bunch of convertibles in the garage and lousy weather overhead. Especially when top-up is when they are least enjoyable.

—Tom Mutchler 

2007 SEMA - The most decadent car

I wish Liberace was here.

You might not know it, but Liberace was quite an automotive enthusiast and often incorporated cars festooned in rhinestone, tiled mirrors, and gold flake into his Las Vegas act. Is any city more appropriate to find a vehicle so ornate?

On the floor at the Las Vegas convention center, we stumbled upon the booth of Garson, an aftermarket company that specializes in garnishing luxury vehicle components that would make even Liberace self-conscious. Their SEMA centerpiece was a 2005 Mercedes SL600 slathered with Swarovski crystals to make what they called "The Million Dollar Car." The exterior is completely covered with the crystals, even the exhaust pipe is covered with them. Inside, black leather seats are trimmed with white mink and Swarovski crystals line the shifter, cup holder, and seat controls. Even Elvis might have found this one over-the-top.

There was no word on how much it would cost to have this blinged ride cleaned at the local jewelers...

--Cliff Weathers

Discuss SEMA in our Auto Show and Aftermarket forums.