2007 Dodge Nitro Test-Drive Tips

Mike Hanley just posted his full review of the all-new Dodge Nitro R/T. The Nitro is a very important product for Dodge, giving the company a masculine midsize SUV that is definitely competitive in the marketplace, but it isn’t for everyone. Here are some tips if the Nitro’s brawny looks draw you into the showroom for a test drive. 

• Do some research ahead of time to figure out what the different trim levels mean and how much they cost. Names like SXT, SLT and R/T can be confusing. Knowing that SXT is the cheapest and R/T the most expensive, with the largest engine, will force you to narrow down your shopping. The SXT has gray plastic molding along the bumpers and bottom of the fenders that may look cheap to some.

2007 Mazda CX-7: Test-Drive Tips

I really enjoyed my week testing the all-new Mazda CX-7 crossover, and it’s still on my own shopping list after finishing my review. Undoubtedly its looks and TV ads will bring a lot of people through dealership doors. In case you’re one of those so swayed, here are some helpful hints to prepare for that all-important test drive.

• The seating position in the CX-7 is pretty straightforward, so once you’re settled in spend time checking the side-view mirrors. My big beef — and really only major one — is with the visibility past either rear blind spot. So make sure you take note of where they are before heading out.
• Once you’re on the road, change lanes. I know it may sound silly, but the only way to get a real-world check of how your body type — mainly height — can accommodate the blind spots is by changing lanes. Obviously use your blinkers. Then check the mirrors. Before you change lanes, do a double check by turning your head over your shoulder to see if you missed anyone. If so, you may have a blind spot issue with the CX-7.

Test-Drive Tips: 2007 Jeep Compass

My review of the all-new Jeep Compass was just posted in Cars.com’s Research section, but once again it might be helpful for potential Compass buyers to take a second and think about the test drive before rushing to the nearest lot. Here are a few tips:

• Check the price. The Jeep Compass comes with either a five-speed manual or a CVT transmission. There are also front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. Make sure you check the various costs of these features; they impact the price significantly. If you can only afford a $17,000 vehicle, don’t even consider the all-wheel-drive Compass with the CVT. That brought us to a sticker of $21,185 with few other options. Try building a Compass online before heading to the dealership. (You may have to enter your zip code but you'll be forwarded to the appropriate page after that.)
• Take a long time to soak in the interior. If you don’t like the looks of it now, it will not grow on you. Don’t let the gimmicks like the flashlight and iPod holder sway you from the real issues of how the window buttons work, how the door handles and steering wheel feel in your hand, and how comfortable the seats are.