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Midsize Sedans 2.0

18168 messages,  Last post on May 18, 2013 at 7:40 PM

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What is this discussion about? Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Volkswagen Passat, Mazda MAZDA6, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima, Car Comparisons, Sedan

Messages Page 1817 of 1817

#18159 of 18168 Re: - [gimmestdtranny] by cski

May 17, 2013 (9:08 am)

Replying to: gimmestdtranny (May 15, 2013 9:31 pm)
"edit - is that a stock sound system? That has to sound pretty good, yet I have heard it's a weak point in the Optima..maybe on the stock/base car?"
 
Sorry, just saw your edit with a question on the LX/EX stereo system. In short, the system lacks good bass response, at least to my ears. It has 6 speakers, but Kia chose to put the rear speakers in the doors, instead of the rear deck, which would use the entire trunk for bass response. So, to solve this I bought a sub-woofer instead of paying $2500 more for the luxury package which included the factory Infinity sub, (which IS mounted in the rear deck).
 
The Infinity Bass-link sub (shown here) http://i.imgur.com/eMBHg0B.jpg is a 10" powered unit, and takes up only 1 cubic foot of space. Price? Roughly $220. I bought mine on e-bay, and I had it installed at a local shop for $80. The controls (set and forget basically) are on the other side so they can be accessed by folding the seat down. There is a remote volume knob installed on the lower dash.

#18160 of 18168 Re: - [cski] by gimmestdtranny

May 18, 2013 (11:15 am)

Replying to: cski (May 17, 2013 9:08 am)
That sounds like an excellent idea on both cost and result fronts. So is that Infinity Sub, the identical unit to the optioned up one used in the EX? Or is it same in name only? I am guessing that even high-end sound systems in OEM use powered subs too?
 
The stereo in my CRV is terrible. I think though that it is so bad, that to get the result I'm after I need to replace the head unit (they must {and usually do} use a very cheap amplifier as OEM base units, but is made worse because this one also has a cassette player as part of the 6 CD unit, so I am guessing even extra cheap amp components) and all the speakers..6 , four in the doors and two tweeters in the dash. They are all shyte. I have an aftermkt powerful amp and sub and Sony (I think) unit I got from my nephew but he lost the manuals and I have no idea (well some actually) idea of how to wire it all up. I'm pretty sure I could figure it out, but what I don't know is how to fine tune it so-to-speak in terms of best compatibilities and what best speakers to replace all the OEM ones. The modern aftmkt stuff (in past 5-6 years) is a lot more complicated than the really good systems of 15-20 years ago or so. Bridgeable amps etc etc. I was going to hire a guy to install, but have procrastinated because I really don't like this car, but can't afford to replace it. Plus I use it for contracting, and often need the actually cu footage that a sub would use up. But I guess I should bite the bullet and have this system installed and it would at least help me like the car a bit better. One of my issues with it is such loud road/wind noise that I think that is one reason the OEM stereo is so out of its element. And, while an aftermkt one has the power to help block it out, in reality terms it really doesn't...as it is all just cumulative or compounded noise.
 
Take a GREAT sounding sound system in a quiet living room and listen to it (quite) cranked...(the way I listen to a lot of my music). Now take that same sound system in the same living room and same db setting, but add in 20 people all partying trying to be heard over each other and the sound system and now everything is muddied.
 
My next vehicle will be known to be extra quiet I hope. And would love to have a great OEM stereo with no messing around after the fact to make it into one. I'm into a LOT of super clean power, so that bass etc can sound extra clean and tight at low or high volumes.
 
Of the mid-sized out there I hear the Dodge 200 has quite a good stock base car system (not confirmed but read it on an Edmunds forum). Perhaps its best quality? But of the mid-sizers, which new car has the best stock base (or one up from base but not top end), since often three levels of sound systems are offered? Years ago Honda (early 90's or so?) along with Toyota Camry but NOT Corolla, had pretty good base systems. But at least in 05 Honda sure has dropped the ball. Any old/new GM probably has a system that sounds easily twice as good.
 
Couple weeks ago spent some time in a friends new ML350. Not THAT thing had some freakin' great sound. Unfortunately though he was not into very loud music and another friend had brought along a Wayne Hancock "That's What Daddy Wants", that was absolutely begging to be cranked in the ML..

#18161 of 18168 Re: Awesome Backy. Newsflash! 2014 Sonata pics! [cski] by jaxs1

May 18, 2013 (4:24 pm)

Replying to: cski (May 02, 2013 6:12 am)
I wonder if that is really a 2014 as it will be seen in the US.
Many websites show pics of non-US models and call it the next years model, but it is really only alternate styling used in other markets.
The pics are clearly not of a US-spec Sonata.

#18162 of 18168 2014 Ford Fusion by jaxs1

May 18, 2013 (4:49 pm)

It is supposed to be out this summer with an 1.5 liter option replacing the 1.6 option on automatic-equipped models. It is supposed to increase fuel economy noticeably without reducing performance.
The 1.5 is also supposed to be smoother and quieter than the 1.6.
Besides that, the SE option packages are changed. You will finally be able to buy a Fusion with Smart entry and push button start without having to choose the Titanium model.
I was not considering the 2013 because I wanted push button start but was not willing to pay for a Titanium and didn't want the over-sized, expensive, harsh-riding, low profile tires that are mandatory on the Titanium anyway.
Because of these changes for 2014, I will finally test drive a Fusion and see if the front seat headrests are as uncomfortable and annoying as some people say.

#18163 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [jaxs1] by explorerx4

May 18, 2013 (5:19 pm)

Replying to: jaxs1 (May 18, 2013 4:49 pm)
In other words, you haven't driven a 2013 Fusion, but are willing to believe the negative things 'some others' say.

#18164 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [explorerx4] by jaxs1

May 18, 2013 (5:43 pm)

Replying to: explorerx4 (May 18, 2013 5:19 pm)
I had no reason to drive it because I knew I was not going to buy one without push starter and smart entry and I was also not buying a Titanium with 19 inch wheels.
No reason to waste time test driving if it didn't meet my criteria at the time.
 
http://www.forbes.com/sites/matthewdepaula/2013/04/30/test-drive-2013-ford-fusio- - n-impresses-in-every-way-but-one/
 
http://www.edmunds.com/ford/fusion/2013/consumer-reviews/disappointed-overall.ht- ml?style=200421095&sub=&reviewId=358564146

#18165 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [jaxs1] by explorerx4

May 18, 2013 (6:14 pm)

Replying to: jaxs1 (May 18, 2013 5:43 pm)
I have a 2013 Fusion Titanium with 19 inch wheels.
The wheels are optional.
No need to bash something because it doesn't meet your particular criteria.
Personally, push button start/remote entry is ok, but a security risk.
I'd be ok with a Titanium with less power.
Although I didn't go to either one of the links you posted, I see one is from Forbes.
Do you get your financial advice from Edmunds?

#18166 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [explorerx4] by jaxs1

May 18, 2013 (6:23 pm)

Replying to: explorerx4 (May 18, 2013 6:14 pm)
I don't want 18 inch wheels either. 17 inch max. Hence, Titanium is not an option for me.
There was no "bashing." I gave the reasons why I don't want large, low profile tires.
For 2014, it looks like there may be a possibility of configuring it in an acceptable way (assuming the smart entry isn't bundled in a package that adds 18 wheels) and assuming that the headrests and not a problem for me.

#18167 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [jaxs1] by imidazol97

May 18, 2013 (6:47 pm)

Replying to: jaxs1 (May 18, 2013 6:23 pm)
> no "bashing." I gave the reasons why I don't want large, low profile tires.
 
I am with you on the smaller diameter rims with a taller sidewall to absorb bumps and potholes, if any. I do not like the way a nicer car is always mated to larger rims and lower profile tires. It should be a choice, and not a mandate with an upscale package. To each his own.

#18168 of 18168 Re: 2014 Ford Fusion [jaxs1] by gimmestdtranny

May 18, 2013 (7:40 pm)

Replying to: jaxs1 (May 18, 2013 6:23 pm)
I agree whole heartedly about the larger rims. I get that they look better, but only because the dang mfgrs are making wheel wells begging to be filled. Big rims suck in all ways except aesthetics.
 
I also agree on the too-close-to-the-head headrests. It may not be an issue for those who sit with their seat back reclined even a little past slight, but for those with lower back issues, for example, who have to have the seat back relatively upright, these new type so-called safety oriented head restraints, suck worse than big wheels. Glad to hear others voice their opinion.
Tall drivers who sit with the seat back well reclined and who can't relate, need not respond, cuz you'll be talkin' to the hand.

Messages Page 1817 of 1817

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