Here’s a commuter tip for you. In a Gestapo type move, the fuzz always try to block the entrance to Penn station when its pouring and the tunnels start flooding. Don’t get caught in this. Go into MSG, and use the entrance through to bypass it all and get home.
But I Digress.
So there were a lot of hits on my last post about AAA’s top commuter cars, and with my recommendations. To that end, I would like to talk about what should be sought after in a perfect commuter car, and add to the list from last week. Here are some key things to look for:
- Power – I am assuming if you are reading this you are a bit of a gear head. Slow cars are not only boring, they are depressing, and sometimes unsafe.
- In-cabin – You have to keep yourself safely entertained while driving. In Cabin Bluetooth and Aux jacks / MP3 capability are probably the 2 best things to happen in cars in years. It’s easy to dismiss these features until you try them, but once you do, you never go back.
- AWD or Front wheel drive – Yes, I kno0w RWD is better for handling and for enthusiasts. But try making it up a snowy or wet incline in traffic or pull emergency maneuvers ina RWD car and you will understand the benefits to being pulled rather than pushed. AWD is even better, and offers excellent grip and confidence, but typically at the cost of weight and fuel economy. Just don’t be one of those people that think they are invincible with it.
- Size – This is debatable. Too big and you can’t see what’s going on around you, and if it’s too small, you can’t be aggressive enough to drive in NY. Gypsy cabs are going to laugh at you if you try to muscle in to their lane at 20 mph in a Miata. 4 doors are also just more practical, but that’s IMHO.
- Fuel economy – its very important especially considering gas prices will rise again, and soon.
So now I want to explain my choices, and unveil 107 Mile’ top 11 commuter cars for this month. Why 11? Because that’s how we roll.
- Infiniti G35X – it’s like the Altimas less girly big brother. The AWD comes at the cost of gas mileage, but it’s fun to drive, and the exhaust note is so sweet you can just turn off the radio. My biggest problem with this car though is the big, annoying analog clock in the middle of the dash.
- Suby Legacy GT – what it lacks in the interior, it makes up in pure fun. This little 2.5 four banger roars, and its fun when the turbo kicks in. it lacks any resemblance to me-too styling, andf the hood scoop is an extremely aggressive addition.
- BMW X5 Diesel – Only SUV on here and for good reason. It has insane torque, amazing handling, great features and is comfy.
- Nissan Maxima – It’s a very well balanced car with unique styling and attitude. The VQ35 is powerful and torque, yet bulletproof. Gas mileage is good, and CVT beats an automatic any day for city driving.
- New Ford Taurus SHO – I know, I can’t believe I am actually suggesting a Taurus, but have you seen this thing? The interior is full of goodies, the exterior is edgy enough to be cool, and who doesn’t love a turbo’d V6?
- Caddy CTS – Drive one. Its fun, its styling is out of this world, and it hauls ass.
- V6 Accord Crosstour – it is the reliability and practicality of an accord, with unique styling and a buttery smooth motor.
- Bigfoot – Because we have all wanted to just roll over everyone at some point or another
- Camry V6 – Its sensible and it has some cojones. And you know you can have one for a steal right now.
- Lexus GS – AWD, solid style styling if you don’t mind all the wood grain.
- Audi A4 / Jetta – You got either AWD or diesel take your pick to what’s more important. Audi worked out its electrical bugs a few years ago, and they are now quite reliable.
Broken Down: ’94 Civiv, 95 Grand Marquis, 96 Cherokee, 92 Taurus,
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