Why did you ignore the 2016 Chevy Malibu? It’s available in 2LT trim with a 250HP turbo 2.0L. The 2LT trim is well appointed and still under the $30k mark ($29,495). I would think it fits perfectly in this comparison and yet is the only car you left out?

Ignoring all the petty banter that drove this article, it was actually very informative on the various classifications of autonomous vehicles. I learned and for that, I thank you, Mr. Ballaban.

I love these types of stories. Also and once again, awesome write up, David. Your articles show that you’re a true car guy.

I wish they offered the hatch/wagon versions here in the states... we only get sedan variants of that Delta II platform (until the Cruze hatch comes out and maybe this Caddy).

Yea that’s an interesting question. Will they keep the Verano as a sedan and the Caddy as a hatch to help differentiate the two? I was really hoping for a hatch/wagon from Buick soon as I would expect them to be marketed perfectly for one, as opposed to Cadillac.

I’m a little torn on this... On one hand, I’d like to see Cadillac continue to try and move into other key markets... but at the same time, this feels like a step away from the image they’ve been working on of higher quality, RWD, well balanced cars. They may make it look nice inside and out, but it’s still a FWD…

Yes, I think this makes more sense as a Buick. That being said, people may be more inclined to consider it as a CLA fighter with a Caddy badge?

Having sat in both, I very much prefer the Recaros. That being said, they aren’t comfortable on long trips, but both cars we’re talking about have hard suspension and short wheelbases that aren’t conducive to cozy roadtrips.

Initially I had compared the price of the Clubsport being much different, but optioning comparable Focus STs to MKVII GTIs (mostly top trim) shows the VW to be $3405 more expensive with 40 less HP ($31,950 compared to $28,545).

The Clubsport is faster, but the GTI with performance pack appears to be slightly slower to 60... probably comparable for the average guy. But the price difference is huge and I don’t see how VW can really justify that price. As a matter of personal preference having been in new Fords and VWs, I’ll take a Ford any day…

No doubt.

Good point, I understand there’s more of an appeal to hot hatches in Europe, I even really like them as a Yank. But the Renault was a mid engine, RWD arrangement... so no back seat is justifiable. The Golf is still front engine, FWD, so I would argue it’s not nearly as “hot” of a hatch. Still just a family car.

I really don’t see the point in this... why would anyone pay for a non-practical Golf? Especially one that doesn’t really even make that much power. If I’m looking for a track focused, 2 seater w/ 300HP it sure as shit isn’t going to be a Golf. I’m with you, I’ll take an RS any day. Hell, I’d take the ST over this…

Rear engine RWD > Front engine FWD

I think you missed Hammerhead’s point.

Well stated, agreed. Although I do like the look of a low wagon, the taller ones are a bit more practical and easier to get into/out of.

So, correct me if I’m wrong, but these still use a single driveshaft to the front differential and a short shaft to the rear... so not at all the same as mentioned by HammerheadFistpunch. This set up is more like the Merc, which has distinct disadvantages over the Land Cruiser.

This truck is making it very difficult for me to continue my dislike of Toyota. At least Land Cruisers. I want to dislike them but I just can’t!

Great info, thanks! I didn’t realize that’s how these were set up. Very sophisticated, I like.

Am I the only one who actually finds pleasure in watching this shit-train implode on itself? I mean, BBC kinda had this coming after dumping Clarkson and hiring Evans. Just look at him! Who wants to see that sniveling little twat on TV anyway?