tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-299452712011-04-21T11:56:57.541-07:00This is where you'll find news, random car-related thoughts and personal views from a rabid car nut. "Amanojaku" is Japanese slang that means "person who is deliberately contradictory". I've always found myself drawn to the less appreciated car makes - the "underdogs" if you will. Suzuki, Pontiac, GM Daewoo and Holden, are among my favorite brands to watch and comment on. Let me hear your thoughts!michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.comBlogger581100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-67034817575656161622007-08-31T19:36:00.000-07:002007-08-31T19:46:13.839-07:00

Since I don't really use this Blog much anymore, but people still ping me about it, I thought I'd link to what I am doing over at www.Suzukiphile.com, which also includes some GM, Daewoo, and other related stories that I could have just as well posted here.  So rather than every post from August, I chose the more general ones and not only Suzuki specific.  Not sure if I'll be back here regularly,

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-33938592681602033092007-07-10T09:02:00.000-07:002007-07-10T09:07:07.197-07:00

I'm often amazed at the lengths people will go to in an effort to prove just how green they are or "save money". While not the solution for everyone, the easy answer to getting good mileage has been around for decades, and it's called the motorcycle.While a loudly idling Harley with a radical cam and straight pipes doesn't do much to create an image of Eco-friendliness, the smaller, inexpensive

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-56755318977426540752007-07-09T07:26:00.000-07:002007-07-09T07:36:11.669-07:00

Some updates from my Suzukiphile blog. Check 'em out if you have the time! :1. Suzuki Wagon R RR Street Sport Concept2. #1 Kei Truck: Suzuki Carry3. Detroit Continues to Fight Against Fuel Economy

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-45761837169186880302007-06-17T07:53:00.000-07:002007-06-17T07:59:30.382-07:00

Haven't posted much here as I've been busy with the Suzukiphile blog.  Check out just a few of the many posts there:JDM Suzuki Swift Sport Street SportGran Turismo 5 Coming....What Cars for Suzuki?"Fur-Renza" gets Positive Review from Dog Owners

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-80924581203019791972007-05-23T09:06:00.000-07:002007-05-23T09:09:22.750-07:00

See photos of my 2007 Absolute White Suzuki Forenza Wagon with Convenience Package, Automatic Transmission, and several SWT ( "Suzuki Works Techno" ) accessories:Set 1: 2007 Forenza Wagon SWT Set 2: 2007 Forenza Wagon SWT

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-31430009792713123442007-05-13T08:33:00.000-07:002008-12-11T21:19:21.058-08:00

There haven't been many (if any) regularly updated American Suzuki news blogs out there, so go check out www.suzukiphile.com if you're a Suzuki fan with a need for news!

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-13092302870828943402007-05-11T18:58:00.000-07:002007-05-11T19:02:33.572-07:00

Many thanks to John McElroy of Autoline Detroit!Wow. Watch as Mr. Bob Lutz gives a great, lengthy response to my question on the Park Avenue and hints at a "Return to true Luxury" for Buick. Download the video HERE!, about 14:45 minutes in. - MingQuote: "We are studying the low volume import (of the Park Avenue)....and reestablish the Buick Flagship. It would return Buick truly to the Luxury

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-4056648697668158212007-05-04T18:15:00.000-07:002007-05-04T18:22:27.287-07:00

A couple of days ago I sent viewer mail to Autoline Detroit, a TV show that I have permanently Tivo'd on the Speed Channel. Thanks to John McElroy, my question directed to Mr. Lutz was asked during his interview!  I originally posted this at GMInsideNews.com, and Autoblog later picked it up. Reply from John McElroy of Autoline Detroit TV:I got to ask Mr. Lutz your question, but it will be in the

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-11290654124582467622007-05-03T20:42:00.000-07:002007-05-03T21:16:09.986-07:00

Since reviews for the Suzuki Forenza are rare now that the car has been out for years without major changes, I'm always on the lookout for a review. HispanicBusiness.com made an unusual move of combining two different vehicles together into one review: The Forenza and the recently introduced all-wheel-drive SX4. Overall the review was positive for the Forenza, not so much for the SX4. Here are

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-42112012144350743902007-04-28T08:16:00.000-07:002007-04-28T08:26:39.560-07:00

Where have all the Hot Buick Sedan Designers Gone, Long time passing?Where have all the Buick Designers Gone, Long time ago?Where have all the Buick Designers Gone, Gone to China Every One,When will they ever learn, (to stop focusing on SUV's, Trucks & Crossovers in Detroit) When will they ever learn? Well, they've gone to China, as evidenced in most of the excellent-looking Buick of China lineup

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-45557443082478553722007-04-27T21:18:00.000-07:002007-04-27T21:25:25.278-07:00

I found this article interesting. A creative way to break the "default vehicle choice" lock the Toyota Camry apparently has on some folks living in Australia.Photo credit to member Mikmak on GMInsidenews.com Toby Hagon27 April 2007www.drive.com.auHolden is offering your money back if you don't like its new Epica mid-sized car, the cheapest six-cylinder car on the market. Holden is offering a

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-78661159644290231722007-04-27T18:03:00.000-07:002007-04-27T18:11:59.769-07:00

DEBBIE KELLEY of the Gazette recently had an interview with The Ryosaku "Rick" Suzuki. He's the chairman of American Suzuki Motor Corp. and is the grandson of the Japanese automaker’s founder, Osamu Suzuki. See the link below for the full interview. A snippet is below. If anything, this interview proves that Suzuki is on a roll and intends to keep rolling. Rumors of Suzuki going all out to

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-57895352475723670322007-04-20T16:19:00.000-07:002008-12-11T21:19:21.300-08:00

What to do if you're a fan of GM Daewoo and you live outside of Korea and can't read Korean? Hey, hey, no jokes about "What Daewoo Fans?" and Bobby Lee's "Tank" character from Mad TV, please... (hehe)Anyway, since Daewoo as a brand left the global stage for the most part several years ago and became GM Daewoo, it might not be as easy as it once was to find small start-up enthusiast sites in

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-33972087580405787042007-04-20T15:59:00.000-07:002007-04-20T16:07:26.416-07:00

Photo source: autos.msn.comThe Ford Flex was revealed earlier this month, and I guess I somehow missed that it isn't just a concept, but an actual production car coming next summer. I hate the name and dislike the new "crossover" designation, but I love the looks. It says classic station wagon to me, although Detroit's Marketing executives run from that classification like it is a bad thing.

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-3658051557992871692007-04-14T05:53:00.000-07:002007-04-14T13:30:10.888-07:00

Once the Chinese Park Avenue debuted at the Shanghai Motor Show 2007, it was only a matter of time before word, and plenty of photos, made their way around the world. This is the age of the Internet, after all. GM can't just launch a new vehicle in secret and hope no one over here in America will notice that Buick in China is getting vastly better-looking cars than the frumpy U.S. market LaCrosse

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-61611841960067672072007-04-08T11:05:00.000-07:002007-04-08T13:00:13.865-07:00

Another interesting quote from Maximum Bob in today's news.I know that Pontiac is looking a lot better as a brand these past few years. The Solstice, upcoming G8, and even some of the existing cars like the G6 Convertible are very appealing to me and those I work with who aren't GM fans.But Buick? Well, Bob has the best idea of GM's plans for that withering brand, but I don't see any kind of

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-63961878794529100152007-04-07T10:22:00.000-07:002008-12-11T21:19:21.557-08:00

We all know that the main reason to buy a Prius is to save the planet and be like Al Gore (minus the private jets), not to impress your peers...but seriously, most people have it in their heads that a Prius is a means to save gas money. But how much money will be saved when you consider the Chevy Aveo, recently refreshed with a nice interior and exterior? Bloomberg has a story on it...Save with a

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-88757295227255888852007-04-07T09:25:00.000-07:002007-04-07T09:49:07.305-07:00

The Seoul Motor Show 2007 is in full swing and yet all most auto sites are offering, it seems, are bland stock photos from the Korean automakers.The show is a real "event" with thumping music, pretty girls galore, and a lot of special customized models. A car guy's dream.Thankfully, we have the blogophere to provide us with a taste of that. A blog called "Max Watson's Asian Adventures" is

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-34054173377522360082007-04-04T17:30:00.000-07:002007-04-04T20:22:47.180-07:00

This article (below) conflicts with a source I have that says that there will be a Chevy minicar coming to the U.S. in 2010. And "consider"? Why offer Americans the chance to vote on a minicar (http://www.gmsurveys2.com/se.ashx?s=7C7FD94F5CE5A6E8) that is not coming to the market? Why hype a trio of concept cars in New York and set up a website for the public to vote? Either its all clever

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-70666373937767377512007-04-03T17:34:00.000-07:002007-04-03T18:14:06.128-07:00

The Corvette in the photo above is participating in a "new" U.S. motorsport called "Gymkhana". No, its not the car-version of the 1985 movie Gymkata, that cheesey martial arts film with a Gymnast running around offing people like Jean-Claude Van Damme. Nor is it a new workout routine that attempts to recreate how Ricardo Montalban beefed up his pecs for the Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan.According

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-59830767464545963102007-04-03T11:59:00.000-07:002007-04-03T12:10:17.989-07:00

Aveo sales jumped in the U.S. market in March and have been on a roll this year.2007 Sales were 6,793, compared to 2006 Sales at 4,438. That's a rise of almost 50%.For the year-to-date, Aveo sales are at 15,228, up 44.1% over last year.Either people have really warmed up to the fresh styling of the new Daewoo Gentra-based Aveo, or they've come to appreciate the way the car is jam-packed with

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-62898542624435158002007-03-29T18:58:00.000-07:002007-03-30T06:20:00.329-07:00

From the The Car Blogger @ Blogspot:GMDAT and Suzuki share alot of components and it seems that the partnership will continue on with these latest shots of what appears to be the Daewoo Tosca with Suzuki badges spotted in Southern California. Suzuki suffered poor sales from its rebadged product of the Daewoo Magnus mid-size sedan, which was introduced for the 2004 model year. Both the Chevrolet

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-61312284107266282172007-03-29T06:28:00.000-07:002007-03-29T06:32:25.913-07:00

Another reason why GM needs to extricate itself from the "Union-Made" anachronism while companies like Toyota, Nissan and Honda operate largely without any kind of Union presence (and the joint NUMMI venture doesn't really count) in their U.S. factories:UAW head indicates GM's gotten enoughSource: http://www.theeagle.com/stories/032907/business_20070329025.phpDETROIT - The head of the United Auto

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-71881716090788797102007-03-28T21:12:00.000-07:002007-04-17T18:24:56.169-07:00

Recently I've posted quite a bit on my favorite car forum regarding my desire to see Buick import an Excelle or a Tosca as a Buick to combat the steep 40% decline in Buick sales in the USA.GM fans at GMInsidenews.com will have none of it.Narrow thinking, in my opinion has lead to the problems Buick is having as a brand. Buick has more than a few opportunities around the globe to bolster its

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-3954225375591307732007-02-20T15:50:00.000-08:002007-02-20T15:58:32.545-08:00

Checking out Suzuki's Website (as I do weekly) I was pleasantly surprised to see another 500 bucks on the hood of the Forenza Wagon. This makes the deal sweeter, but I'm still waiting to pay my Safari off in a couple of months before going out and buying one. http://www.suzukiauto.com/specials/index.php

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-82215562963005774382007-02-14T09:12:00.000-08:002007-02-14T09:15:41.550-08:00

Chevy of Europe is surging. Its market share jumped 25% in one year. On a heavy, sometimes all-Daewoo product lineup. So "value packed" with crisp, frequently updated styling does count for something after all...GM Europe Chevrolet sales up 41.5 percent compared to January 2006; GM Europe January Sales Reach 15 Year Record* GME January sales up 17,631 units from same month last year* GME January

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-43090474566109016252007-02-07T14:43:00.000-08:002007-02-07T14:53:48.083-08:00

I wrote this yesterday for GMInsidenews.com, please feel free to comment:The Truly Global GM: One and a Half Years LaterAnd How having "too many" brands can be an assetCommentary by Mingwww.gminsidenews.com2/6/07Back in September of 2005 I wrote a commentary here at GMInsidenews titled " Should a Truly Global GM Replace North American GM Brand Cars? ". With over 12,000 views, it spawned some

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-30134546051686287702007-02-02T12:59:00.000-08:002008-12-11T21:19:21.899-08:00

SEOUL (MarketWatch) -- GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Co., the South Korean unit of General Motors Corp. (GM), said Thursday its auto sales in January surged 33% on year on the back of robust sales of its new models Tosca and Winstorm.The automaker sold a total of 81,377 vehicles at home and overseas in January, up from 61,233 units a year earlier.Local sales soared 51% to 11,328 units from 7,504

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-5714346281409211392007-02-01T12:25:00.000-08:002007-02-02T12:59:45.227-08:00

While reading up / Googling on the Daewoo Damas (a small work van), I discovered that it is actually a 5th gen Suzuki Carry (or based on it and has evolved a bit since then as the "Damas II"). The Damas II has an Liquid Petroleum Gas tank installed from the factory from what I can tell and runs on a very small engine.In 1985 arrived the 5th generation Suzuki Carry and Every with the same

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-73825068298191904462007-01-31T10:44:00.000-08:002007-01-31T10:48:24.678-08:00

Over at Suzuki-Forums.com I posted several screen grabs of the different options and trim that are available on the GM Daewoo Lacetti.I had been scouring the 'net for a bugflector for my upcoming wagon purchase, but to no avail. Perhaps I can find someone with contacts in Korea who can import one for me...Follow the LINK to see more photos of the options.

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-72925721655300969672007-01-31T08:54:00.000-08:002007-01-31T09:06:24.700-08:00

A poster at GMInsidenews pointed out that I must have had a hand in this aftermarket creation. Well, I couldn't agree more - I sure would buy one if I still lived in Japan. Thanks to Winding Road for the find!Its a Suzuki Every Wagon that’s been customized by Japanese stylists DAMD to look like a shrunken Cadillac Escalade. The name is even kind of catchy: “DAMD Concept B Type 1 Every DA64W.”The

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-20201535194571808972007-01-26T06:39:00.000-08:002007-01-26T06:42:52.715-08:00

Suzuki to raise 2007 sales 8% on overseas demand - company may keep GM's 17% stake longer25 Jan 2007bbj.huSuzuki Motor Corp., Japan's fourth-largest automaker, plans to raise sales 8% this year as overseas demand for its compact cars rises, will increase production capacity in Hungary.The company plans to sell 2.35 million vehicles in 2007, compared with 2.17 million last year, Suzuki said in a

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-14134904023838252002007-01-24T21:21:00.000-08:002007-01-24T21:39:36.411-08:00

So I took a trip down to my local Suzuki dealer today after reading glowing reviews of the new SX4. I was fully prepared to like it.Side by side on the dealer lot were two cobalt blue vehicles - the Forenza Wagon and a new SX4.Unfortunately the "small station wagon" as it is called on its sticker, was just a bit TOO small. While it appeared to have ample headroom and stands a bit taller than the

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-29168966345279535442007-01-24T19:53:00.000-08:002007-01-24T20:01:24.783-08:00

Note: The "Grand Am Cup", a series that was often confused for the similarly named Grand American Rolex Series (its big brother, so to speak), is as of the 2007 racing season with its own major sponsor, and now called the "Grand Am KONI Challenge".Racing Weekend Ahead: KONI Challengeby Steve Smith, Kristyn SobierFlorida Racing NewsWednesday, January 24, 2007DAYTONA, Fla. -- Chevrolet Cobalt SS

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-14048334686189076482007-01-20T06:23:00.000-08:002007-01-20T06:30:46.546-08:00

SUZUKI SX4 REVIEW ROUND UP: "A Hell of a Deal; the potential to be a WRX-killer"Quote: The SX4’s on-demand AWD system is a particularly pukka party trick, reminiscent of Subarus of yore. For daily duty, the SX4 is a front-driver. Flip a switch near the handbrake and i-AWD kicks in. In this mode, 95% of the SX4’s torque is routed to the front wheels. Should either of the fronts lose purchase, up

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-45049916920414152052007-01-16T14:33:00.000-08:002007-01-16T20:14:05.574-08:00

Is there a conspiracy to eliminate the affordable Station Wagon from the U.S. market, or is it just a market trend? Soon the Ford Focus Wagon is set to disappear, as well as the Malibu Maxx. The traditional Station Wagon is an endangered species. Aside from the Dodge Magnum and the wagons in some Luxury brands, the wagon is on the decline, and the inexpensive sedan-based 4-cylinder station wagon

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-50852892876974088172007-01-16T12:20:00.000-08:002007-01-16T12:36:57.947-08:00

Photo: Will Pontiac's Ugly Styling Beast Rear its Head Again?News has leaked that Pontiac's upcoming "G8" RWD sedan will not keep the Commodore VE front end, but will instead have the styling of a Solstice from the A-pillar forward.The Holden VE Commodore has a very techy/sharp look. The Solstice is more of a rounded homage to a 1950's Porsche.Personally I hate the idea. GM Execs are no doubt

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-48048060245220583272007-01-15T14:20:00.000-08:002007-01-15T14:20:20.352-08:00

Ming's Place: Suzuki SX4 Review

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-69073630764736955012007-01-15T13:08:00.000-08:002008-12-11T21:19:22.297-08:00

Good review of the SX4 over at the Evo Auto Blog: http://evo.blogsome.com/2007/01/08/suzuki-sx4/"For just $15K fully-loaded, the Suzuki SX4 is a hell of a deal. We came in fully expecting to be disappointed in this car but came away from it with a healthy amount of respect for it. We’d fully recommend this car to anyone looking at a Fit, Yaris or even a Civic. If the aftermarket picks up on this

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-51177096772833520772007-01-15T12:44:00.000-08:002008-12-11T21:19:22.735-08:00

Suzuki's SX4 is currently available in the U.S. market only as a 4 door hatchback with "SUV" styling. However the Chinese spec "Saloon" (sedan) shown above was at the Chinese Auto Show, and a video and other photos can be seen here: http://www.globalsuzuki.com/autochina2006/index.htmlThe U.S. spec "crossover" can be seen here:http://suzukiauto.com/sr_07/sx4/

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-23657091943855977762007-01-15T12:14:00.000-08:002008-12-11T21:19:22.949-08:00

Wrote this last fall - see the original post with photos here: http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38295GMI Goes to China: Ming's Trip and Observationswww.GMInsidenews.com10/5/06Recently I had the opportunity to travel to China for a few weeks. Although I was much too busy to take a trip to the local Buick, Chevrolet or Cadillac dealers there, I knew it would be a good chance to

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-65523642649871045442007-01-15T05:48:00.000-08:002007-01-15T05:55:47.073-08:00

This is a copy of a list compiled a few months back. See the original list with photos here: http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41165The Definintive GM Performance Car List Part II: 1973-1985Composed by Ming - with help from 87aero, MCGARRETT, EGG, T-Type, & More!www.GMinsidenews.com11-27-061973-1985 The Forgotten Years of GM PerformanceWith the 1973 Oil Crisis, Disco Vans,

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-76587064128399183302007-01-14T14:36:00.000-08:002007-01-15T13:54:15.869-08:00

I intend to purchase a 2007 Suzuki Forenza Wagon next month by order. Paint will be white, with some added "Suzuki Works Techno" trim and gunmetal gray SWT wheels. I've used www.truedelta.com to price compare to other cars, and have wanted one of these for years now. I'm holding on to my 2000 Bonneville SSEi, and will use this wagon as an inexpensive commuter car for the most part.Search Engine

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-53792957126191857382007-01-14T13:51:00.000-08:002008-12-11T21:19:23.205-08:00

Opel's DCVCP 1.8L EngineThe GM Hybrids, Hydrogen and Plug-ins are Great But...What GM Really Needs is A Highly Fuel-Efficient 4-Cylinder Engine For the North American MarketCommentary by Minghttp://www2.blogger.com/'http://www.gminsidenews.com/1/14/2007On Autoline Detroit this morning while discussing the new GM Volt concept, one of the panel members pointed out a glaring flaw in the potentially

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167687807233274882007-01-01T13:39:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:43:27.943-08:00

Why "recreate" Saturn, the Import Fighter in Detroit, when Opel's got the styling goods already?1-8-2005Editorial by Mingwww.GMInsidenews.comThe new Saturn Aura and Sky were recently unveiled, and I really like the look of them. It seems so far that the general consensus is that this is a big step up for Saturn, and I fully agree. There is also talk that compares the reinvigoration of the brand

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167687451605332782007-01-01T13:33:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:37:32.033-08:00

05-28-2005--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hey "New Breed of Speed" - Now GM's Got All You NeedEditorial by Mingwww.gminsidenews.comI recently spoke to a younger friend of mine who is partial to imports, and doesn't understand my interest in GM cars. "GM doesn't have anything that appeals to my generation," he said, echoing the insistence from the

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167686869543096392007-01-01T13:27:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:27:50.296-08:00

GMI Virtual Tuner #2: Saturday Night Drifter: 2004 Pontiac GTOBy Mingwww.gminsidenews.comGMI Virtual Tuner List:1. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx / Malibu V6: LINK to GMI Tuner #1 2. 2004 Pontiac GTO3. 2005 Cobalt SS4. 2006 Pontiac G6 GT Coupe5. 2005 Monte Carlo6. 2005 Saab 9-2x - or your choice here?INTRO: I decided that if I saw yet another magazine article on a modified Scion or Civic with a paint

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167686706244806422007-01-01T13:23:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:25:07.483-08:00

The Other GM Brands #2:Wholly Owned GM Subsidiary Holden of AustraliaThe Other Holdens - A Primer By Mingwww.gminsidenews.com8/26/05We have the Pontiac GTO and Vauxhall Monaro to thank for increased awareness globally of the GM player Down Under, Holden. Since then, the web has been flooded with news of Monaro this and GTO that, with a little Commodore and UTE news thrown in for good measure.

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167686519628445262007-01-01T13:21:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:21:59.730-08:00

02-18-2005--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Can Pontiac claim "Total Performance" without its own Sport Compact?By Mingwww.gminsidenews.comPontiac Sunfire production has ceased, with nothing to replace it. That it is fading from dealership lots is not such a bad thing. "Old is old," and there's no getting around that. It might even be said the "

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167686410428796082007-01-01T13:19:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:20:10.610-08:00

Should GM market its 3.5LVVT and 3.9LVVT as "Pushrod" Engines?Commentary by Mingwww.gminsidenews.comOne might argue that GM has been hiding the OHV "Pushrod" nature of its new 3.5L and 3.9L Variable Valve Timing-enhanced engines in most of the ads and brochures out in the public eye. Where "DOHC" is often loudly trumpeted, GM's OHV engines are rarely advertised as such, but rather just with the

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167686260378930252007-01-01T13:16:00.000-08:002007-01-16T13:58:36.436-08:00

Written Originally: 10-22-2005--------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Hype-rid Challenge: Value vs. Vogue4-cylinder Low-Emission Wagons pitted against a Media Darling HybridCommentary by Mingwww.gminsidenews.comWhen talk around the water cooler turns to gasoline prices, the inevitable word that pops up is "Hybrid". From automotive news to Hollywood

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167685859575820092007-01-01T13:10:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:10:59.633-08:00

09-08-2004--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Merge The Brands!Editorial by MingGMInsidenews.com"Merge the brands" The idea is nothing new. GM currently has a manager of Pontiac-Buick-GMC. But GM continues to try and make every brand capable of standing alone - giving Buick the Rainier, for instance, while GMC has a very similar vehicle in the Envoy, or

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167685759594048032007-01-01T13:08:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:09:19.840-08:00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Pontiac: Excitement, Fuel for the Soul, Action - Words Finally Made RealCommentary by Mingwww.gminsidenews.com09-16-2005Paging through the latest auto magazines at my local bookstore it struck me like a hammer: Pontiac is finally delivering on its promises of the past.As I went from magazine to magazine, the glowing

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167685676525197132007-01-01T13:07:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:07:56.526-08:00

09-23-2004--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Car-based Pickups: The Next Big Thing?Editorial by MingGMInsidenews.comThe idea of the utility of a bed in the back of a car is nothing new. The Model T had the option of a pickup bed. Cars of the past like the El Camino still are instantly recognizable names that conjure up the image of a car-based pickup.

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1167685536199234942007-01-01T13:03:00.000-08:002007-01-01T13:05:53.826-08:00

GMI Virtual Tuner #1: Chevrolet Mad MaxxBy Ming & GMInsidenews Staffwww.gminsidenews.comGMI Virtual Tuner List:1. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx / Malibu V62. 2004 Pontiac GTO3. 2005 Cobalt SS4. 2006 Pontiac G6 GT Coupe5. 2005 Monte Carlo6. 2005 Saab 9-2x - or your choice here?In the face of all the recent negative news on GM, I decided a little fun was in order. A series of articles that don't take

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1154553826875947772006-08-02T14:17:00.000-07:002006-08-02T14:25:29.970-07:00

Latest project is taking the list of GM cars in the previous post and setting it to photos. There's been a pretty positive response so far. Check it out!http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34878

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1150926649313356692006-06-21T14:45:00.000-07:002006-06-21T15:05:26.816-07:00

The following was created originally at GMInsidenews and is a list of several GM cars I'd like to see more of in racing games, particularly those like Gran Turismo where Japanese and European cars seem to have a wide variety of options in several car classes available for cars produced in the last two decades. GM's offerings in such games have often been limited to old muscle cars from the 1960's

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29945271.post-1150738759206995002006-06-19T10:37:00.000-07:002006-06-19T10:39:19.213-07:00

Just setting up my blog, nothing to report.

michitakemhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06852313693621997922noreply@blogger.com0