Anne Gelvin

Interior Design and Special Features

The XC90's cabin is quintessential modern Volvo. Materials are top-notch, controls are stylish yet intuitive, and the overall design is consistent with the hip, minimalist look Volvo has adopted over the past decade. Yet the XC90 is arguably more about family-friendliness than wood and leather, and it certainly doesn't disappoint in this regard. When equipped with the third-row seat, the center position in the second row has an integrated child booster cushion that slides forward, allowing easier access to children in the back. Legroom in the rearmost quarters is better than in many competitors, although the third row does cause second-row legroom to suffer. Cargo capacity is 43.3 cubic feet in the five-passenger model (or the seven-passenger model with the third seat folded), and it expands to a generous 85 cubic feet with both rows folded.

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Driving Impressions

Most buyers will be content with the base 1.8-liter engine, which delivers respectable acceleration in normal traffic situations. We recorded a 9.1-second 0-60-mph time in a manual-shift Corolla with the 1.8-liter, and our test car returned an impressive 29.8 mpg in mixed driving. Although the five-speed's shifter feels firm and decisive moving through the gates, we suspect its abrupt, at-the-floor clutch engagement will push many buyers to the automatic. Upgrading to the 2.4-liter engine provides a gratifying increase in low-end torque, though it does come at the expense of fuel economy.

Regardless of which trim level you choose, the 2009 Toyota Corolla excels as a commuter car, as the suspension delivers a comfortable, controlled ride. Handling is uninspiring, however. Body roll is decently controlled, but the electric steering on non-XRS models provides so little feedback, you may find yourself making corrections simply to keep the car traveling in a straight line. Toyota retuned this setup for the XRS, and indeed its steering feels crisper and weightier. Driven on a back road, the Corolla XRS is undeniably a capable compact sedan, but compared to rivals like the Mazda 3, Civic and Lancer, it's not a very entertaining one.

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Since both 2009 Acura TL models feature different engines, different drive wheels, different wheel sizes and different electronic steering calibrations, they are very different to drive. The base TL is more for comfort-minded buyers who should find the 280-hp V6 more than ample for commuting. The steering's low-effort response, however, feels decidedly artificial, and the car lacks the previous TL's nimble nature.

The SH-AWD is a different story, as the "Super Handling" part of its acronym proves to be more than just hyperbole. By apportioning more power to the outside wheels during cornering (it's the same principle that makes a tank turn), the TL exhibits excellent grip and control. The SH-AWD TL's electric steering also exhibits more weighting and feedback, resulting in a more natural feel. It's not as communicative as the old TL's power hydraulic steering and the car doesn't feel as agile, but the newfound maneuverability at lower speeds is a trade-off most consumers should be happy to make. In addition to the inclement weather benefits of all-wheel drive, SH-AWD also allows for the model's 306 hp to offer lively thrust without the torque steer.
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Safety

Standard safety features on the 2009 Nissan GT-R include massive Brembo brakes with antilock capability, stability control and traction control. Front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on GT-R Premiums but unavailable on the base model.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2009 Nissan GT-R's interior is a somber but appropriately driver-centric environment in which to make haste. Snug sport buckets and a high center console envelop the driver and front passenger, and rear passengers won't complain as long as their legs aren't long enough to dangle off the seat cushions -- which is to say, as long as they're under the age of 3. Ingress and egress -- for the front passengers, at least -- is a piece of cake by exotic-car standards.

The GT-R also boasts a trick multifunction performance monitor that features 11 different informational displays. The monitor was developed in consultation with Polyphony Digital, which created the Gran Turismo video game franchise.

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Anne Gelvin Credits: But the 2009 Borrego isn't just about appearances and gizmos; it has the chops of a true sport-utility vehicle. Unlike crossovers, traditional body-on-frame SUVs are generally able to handle rougher terrain and boast higher towing capacities. Available with either a V6 or a V8 engine, the Borrego comes standard with features such as downhill brake control and hill assist control, and ground clearance is on par for the segment. Four-wheel-drive models also come with the expected two-speed transfer case. Notably, the Borrego can also tow up to a class-leading 7,500 pounds. On the downside, the Borrego seems to miss the mark when it comes to some aspects of performance and handling, and its lack of a power liftgate makes one wonder how a brand touting its advanced features could have overlooked something so relatively common.

The 2009 Kia Borrego is up against long-running, top-selling midsize standbys such as the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Pathfinder. And on paper, the Kia looks like a worthy contender. The Borrego has a slightly lower base price than these competitors (although the V8 engine and various options can make it expensive), and offers all the necessities for an active family, such as a 60/40-folding second row and a 50/50-split third row. Its V8 boasts more horsepower than any of its other eight-cylinder rivals and still provides some of the best fuel economy in the segment. The Borrego also has the smallest turning circle, which in theory should make it a tad nimbler than the rest.

In short, those who actually need the stout capabilities of a traditional midsize SUV in the $20,000-$35,000 range might be pleasantly surprised by the 2009 Kia Borrego.

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The current Civic generation bowed for 2006, and we're quite fond of it. Some styling elements are rather odd, such as the minivan-like windshield, snub nose and the dual-tiered instrument panel that combines digital and analog gauges. But the high build quality, sporty driving dynamics, rock-solid reputation for reliability and impressive fuel efficiency more than make up for a few aesthetic quirks. Some may even think of such quirkiness as a plus.

No matter which Civic you choose, this Honda's traditional strengths in comfort, overall quality and safety are all still firmly intact. Though we suggest doing a bit of comparison shopping -- the sporty Mazda 3, affordable Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Rabbit/Jetta are also very good choices -- the 2009 Honda Civic remains an ideal pick for a small sedan or coupe.

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Patients’ Choice Network’s president Anne Gelvin announces the following member update:
GET INTO THE MIX!
PCN will be hosting several Attorney Mixers throughout Southern California during the next six months. The events are aimed at showcasing the knowledge and caliber of PCN doctors who have recently completed our training program.
Here are just a few of the reasons why Workers’ Compensation attorneys are encouraged to develop mutually beneficial relationships with PCN.
- PCN doctors are elite medical professionals who actively treat and evaluate following ACOEM protocols and guidelines in order to deliver competent reports, which allow for better and more complete impairment ratings.
- PCN offers Labor Code and CCR-based strategies to exit the MPN and not lose TTD or Client.
- PCN doctors are independent of MPNs, are ACOEM compliant and provide complete AMA analysis and ratings.
- PCN doctors are willing to treat patients on liens, and at P&S, turn the case back to the referring attorney for settlement.
- PCN doctors are trained on documenting the areas of injury & treatment, which Colossus recognizes as value drivers.

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“This system will be an evaluable tool for our members,” said PCN President Anne Gelvin. “It will offer a systematic approach in the everyday world of doctors treating patients.”

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About Anne Gelvin: Regular features will include Workers’ Comp. news briefs & law updates, PCN policies and updates, and a PCN activities calendar. Other features will include essays and practice strategies from key players in California’s Workers’ Compensation system, including AMA Guides Editor Linda Cocchiarella and Workers’ Comp. Attorney Barry Hinden. As a member or affiliate of Patients’ Choice Network, not only do you get the benefits of an informative newsletter, but you can also use it to your advantage by suggesting and submitting articles for publication.
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Attorneys are encouraged to use these Mixers as an opportunity to evaluate the benefits of Patients’ Choice Network and how it can positively impact their law firms. For times and locations of future Attorney Mixers, please contact PCN President Anne Gelvin.
We hope to see you at the next Mixer!

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Anne Gelvin Info: PCN’s extended marketing program provides its members with a host of benefits, including:
* Quarterly Mixers with top players in the Workers’ Comp. industry.
* Small group meetings with Workers’ Comp. attorneys. These meetings connect PCN doctors with law firms that they would like to work with, and are designed to showcase the level of training offered through the Network and the skill and expertise of its doctors. The meetings also highlight why chiropractors should be the “gatekeepers” in the new Workers’ Comp. system. The meetings are coordinated and hosted with the help of Workers’ Comp. industry insiders Dr. Syd Shaber, Donna Meeks and more.
* Access to past training seminars on the “Members Only” section of this web site.
* Workers’ Comp. e-newsletter. Sponsored by top law firms , these law firms are top California Applicants’ Attorneys Association members.
* Text Box: Exclusive discounts from PCN vendors and service providers.
* Permanent listing on the PCN Member Directory. The Member Directory is hand delivered to top Workers’ Compensation attorneys, e-mailed to all attorneys in CAAA, and posted at this web site.
* Networking with major attorney marketing groups.
* Networking with Orthopedic Surgeons. PCN has established relationships with Orthopedic Surgeons who are on the MPN panels and are willing to work with PCN doctors. These surgeons are willing to go to PCN doctors’ offices once a month, providing the volume is sufficient to make their day productive. The Network continues to seek relationships with all other ancillary providers, including internists, sleep study providers, stand up MRIs, and much more.

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Driving Impressions

Break out the bell bottoms and peace signs — it’s 1970 all over again. With the V8 versions, performance is thrilling, as one would expect. Provided there’s sufficient grip, the 2009 Dodge Challenger lunges off the corners and swallows the straights, its sustained thrust complemented by long riffs of resonant mechanical music. However, we’d appreciate a rev-matching feature for the automatic transmission to make downshifts smoother when running along a curvy road.

For such a big car, the Challenger handles itself well, with minimal body roll and a surprisingly comfortable ride. Braking is up to the task as well. Large Brembos in the SRT8 (about 14 inches front and rear) are fitted with four-piston calipers and provide abundant stopping power. The brakes also automatically keep their pads closer to the rotors when driving in the wet, lightly wiping the discs off for improved braking in these conditions.

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Safety

The 2009 Audi Q7’s standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, a stability control system with hill-descent control and rollover detection, traction control, active front headrests, full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags. Seat-mounted side airbags for the second row are optional. In addition, Audi’s blind-spot warning system alerts the driver when another vehicle is along the Q7’s side. Optional lane assist alerts the driver if the car drifts out of its lane.

In crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Q7 performed very well, scoring five out of five stars in front- and side-impact testing.

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About Anne Gelvin: Last year, Dodge offered just one model — the top-level SRT8. For 2009, Dodge expands the Challenger family with a couple of less intimidating alternatives that make this retro-styled sport coupe more accessible to the masses. Starting things off is the new base Challenger, fitted with a V6 engine and four-speed automatic, a pairing as ill-suited as Charlize Theron and Gilbert Gottfried. You’ll get 250 hp and a 25-mpg highway rating from this powertrain, but considering that you’re stuck with four speeds, it’s hardly set up for optimal efficiency. Sitting between the base car and the SRT8 is the best pick of the bunch: the new R/T, with its 370-hp V8. This year also brings back another Mopar icon, a pistol-grip-shifted manual gearbox. Available on the V8 cars, this tranny features six speeds.

Considering that the resurrected Camaro is set to debut next year, Dodge’s preemptive strike with this full family of Challengers couldn’t have come at a better time. And considering the cost of gasoline nowadays, we imagine the V6 model will be fairly popular. Overall, we like how the 2009 Dodge Challenger impressively combines the visceral and visual excitement of the past with modern engineering, safety and convenience features. Yes, there is competition in the form of the upcoming Camaro and the Ford Mustang. But for a modern take on the old muscle car, the Challenger certainly gets almost all of it right.
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2009 Hyundai Sonata Vehicle Overview

Introduction

They say imitation is the highest form of flattery. But what happens when the imitator becomes better than the imitated?

For years now, Hyundai has had its sights set on Toyota. The Japanese giant’s strategy for its vehicles is to make them reliable, impeccably made, conservative in style and comfortable to ride in. Hyundai has taken that approach to heart, and the 2009 Hyundai Sonata is proof positive that it has gotten it right. In fact, not only has the updated Sonata caught up to the mighty Camry, it’s driven past it.

For 2009, Hyundai’s midsize family sedan sees several key changes. Both the four- and six-cylinder engines have received an influx of power, while raising fuel economy at the same time. That’s worthy of a thumbs-up any day. The biggest news, however, resides inside. While this generation Sonata’s original cabin was hardly an environment worth shaking a finger at, Hyundai was never pleased with it from the get-go. This year’s complete makeover performed on the center stack, gauges and center console has led to an overall design that is more user-friendly and better looking. Materials have also been improved, while the top-level Limited trim boasts a tasteful blend of color combinations, wood-grain accents and alloy trim. To be frank, this is the Lexus-lite interior we were expecting when Toyota’s all-star was last redesigned. Hyundai has delivered it instead.

When the Hyundai Sonata was redesigned three years ago, it gave the top family sedans a run for their money — in fact, we ranked it over the Accord and Camry in a 2006 comparison test. Since then, both of those rivals have been completely redesigned, as have the impressive new Nissan Altima and Chevrolet Malibu. The changes for 2009 bring the Sonata back closer to par. Although we’re not sure it’s still the class beater, the case can certainly be made that Hyundai has built a better Camry than Toyota did. Perhaps the imitated should become the imitator.

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Through the turns, the 2009 Pontiac Vibe (especially in AWD and GT form with their sport suspensions) is responsive and composed, if not quite as entertaining as the decidedly sporty Mazda 3. Body roll is minimal, steering is nicely weighted and turn-in is fairly crisp. A supple ride makes the Vibe a good companion whether handling commuting duty or road tripping, and freeway cruising is unstrained at higher speeds.

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In the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, Audi launched the second-generation of the A3, the Typ 8P, designed by Walter de’Silva. Originally launched only as a three-door hatchback with four cylinder engines, it featured a new automobile platform (the PQ35 platform), a redesigned and more spacious interior, new petrol engines with Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI), and standard six-speed manual gearboxes (except on the base 1.6).

In mid 2003, the line was updated with two sports-orientated models, a 2.0 Turbo-FSI version with 200 PS (197 hp/147 kW), and a 3.2 VR6 engine (for the first time) with 250 PS (247 hp/184 kW). Haldex Traction-based quattro four wheel drive, and the S-Tronic semi-auto gearbox were introduced as optionals (quattro is standard on the VR6) on every model 140 PS (138 hp/103 kW) and over.