The HYUNDAI i30 is a cool looking car, and a best seller in Europe. I love the squat stance and the sporty proportions – especially the hatchback design. But, being a Hyundai, it is also an exceedingly well made car – reliable and sturdy. To prove this point, Hyundai parked the new car in the jungle for ten hours and let some crazed monkeys all hopped up on Jujubees and Skittles go nuts on it. Ok, I made that last part up – there is no evidence Hyundai’s PR people plied the animals with candy, but in my mind, that is exactly what happened. The final result of which, you are suggested to think, ” well damn, if that car can stand up to a bunch of psycho monkeys, then surely it can handle my family”. Oddly though, all I could think was, ” Will Hyundai be providing air fresheners?” Anyway, in an act of accelerated evolution, a few monkeys started the car and promptly took off for California using Hyundai’s terrific navigation system. As of this writing, they were on the 405 heading north, after stopping at Whole Foods where they reportedly stole some organic fish sticks, bananas, 3 bags of Stacy’s pita chips ( Ranch flavored ) , 300 capsules of Vitamin B12 and a copy of 50 Shades of Grey. Should make for an interesting journey. Look for them in a neighborhood near you. And in an ironic twist, Honda announced their next Accord will be quality tested by 50 bloodthirsty zombies. Fun.
The Vehiclist
Fred Segal Parking lot
Valet parking stand at the Grove
Car wash at the Handy J, Culver City
As we make that slide into Summer, I am reminded of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, that stalwart of summer family vacations. Of course the classic ceased being made in the very early Nineties, so for the most part they have faded from popular consciousness, but….. The American classic will soon return – built off the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform – the one that does triple duty as the Mercedes M Class and the Dodge Durrango as well. In fact, the new 7 seater will proportion out very similar to the Durrango, and reports say that it will sport a front facade very reminiscent of the earliest Wagoneers. Recently, Jeep revealed some concepts playing up its heritage, and the result is compelling. I am excited to see how it turns out – with FIAT at the helm, the new Jeep the Grand Cherokee is a terrific vehicle, and the brand is in need of a bigger, more prestigious 7 seater. It will hopefully retain the qualities it has always been known for : a preppy american classic that is luxurious but understated, powerful and utilitarian. I have included some artist representations of what people think it might look like, but they are guesses at best. All I know is, it damn well better have a wood paneled option or it will be dead in the water, as far as I’m concerned. And, if you can’t wait till the new one arrives – ( in about a year ) check out 
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