Who is Daisy Mae, she is the new PAW investigative automotive writer for Bark Buckle UP. She is an 8 year old Boxer who, until recently, called Boxer Rescue Los Angeles her only home. As a senior citizen among many adorable Boxer pups, her chances of being adopted seemed pretty dim. But James Hamel a freelance auto journalist who works from home, adopted little Miss Daisy Mae and has put her to work helping him write reviews. She now travels with him in every vehicle that he tests and offers up her unique take on what makes a vehicle or product truly “Pet Safe.” As pawed by Daisy Mae: Dogs are eternal optimists, always seeing the good in people and always hopeful that tomorrow will be a better day. This is true even if we are stuck in a pound or rescue somewhere without a home, love and true friendship. But when I heard I was going to be testing a 2011 Hyundai Tucson SUV, even I had my doubts.
Even dogs know Hyundais used to be, um, dogs. Wow, that verbiage sure sounds “dog-ist” now that I think about it. Well, I sure am glad that I gave the 2011 Hyundai Tucson a chance because, despite a few flaws, it is the best bargain compact SUV on the market today.
Come on, my well equipped GLS test model cost just a bit over $21,000 and came with standard Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity. Both of these features help my human companion keep his eyes on the road. You also get a full 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty that covers the engine and transmission. That’s 70 whole dog years!
So why is it important to dogs that the drivers of the cars they ride around in aren’t distracted? Well, I may be buckled in safely in the back seat but I’d much rather never have to use my safety restraint harness, if you get what I mean.
Also, if there’s a side impact where I am sitting I will be relying on very powerful airbags to save me. They could cause broken bones and even internal injuries. So the best accident is the one that is avoided.
USB ports are a much safer way to use your iPod as they connect directly to the stereo faceplate high up on the dash. An auxiliary input jack forces you to look down at your iPod to change songs, albums or playlists. That is just as bad as texting when you are driving!
So I applaud Hyundai/Kia for making Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity standard on most every model they sell. Even Mercedes and BMW don’t do that!
Daisy’s Likes
· Widespread availability of Bluetooth and USB Connectivity
· Low ride height so it’s easy for me to get in and out
· Low price means more money left over for dog toys and kibble
· Easy to reach D-ring attachments in back seat
· Rear seats fold completely flat
Daisy’s Dislikes
· Rear seating area offers limited visibility thanks to swoopy exterior styling
· Some people are prejudiced against Hyundai as a brand
· Some plastics appear scratch prone
Automotive Pet Safety Info Provided By: Bark Buckle UP
BeSmart Ride Safe
For James Hamel's human perspective on the 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS click here.
Vehicle Tested: 2011 Hyundai Tucson GLS (Front Wheel Drive)Base Price: $21,845
Price as Tested: $22,740 (including destination)
Options on Test Model: Floormats--$100
Engine: 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine
Power: 176 horsepower/168 lb. feet of torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60: 9.5 seconds
Fuel Economy: 22 city/31 highway
Average Test Economy: 26.7 miles per gallon
Fuel Tank Size: 14.5 gallons
Runs on: Regular Unleaded
Cargo Area (behind second row): 25.7 cubic feet
(all seats folded): 55.8 cubic feet
Warranty: 5 years/60,000 mile bumper to bumper
10 years/100,000 mile powertrain
Safety Ratings (IIHS): “Top Safety Pick”
Vehicle Assembled in: Ulsan, South Korea
Vehicle Provided by: Hyundai Motor America
About: Bark Buckle UP® founder Christina Selter “Pet Safety Lady” works with first responders nationwide teaching pet safety and has buckled UP more then 10,000 pets. Education is the first step to show that pet safety is connected to human safety, which helps to save lives. Christina has been featured in more then 1200 TV, radio, segments including print and online takes it over tens of thousands, Bark Buckle UP received more then 100 MILLION in circulations/impressions in 2008 and she has directed, produced several pet safety PSA’s and created Be Smart Ride Safe-take the pledge Buckle Up the whole family.
