From Jake Latham, my Autocrossing DSM Friend in Ft. Collins:
Stopped by the local King Soopers shopping cart dealer tonight to take a look at their new wheels – thought ya’ll might like a mini-review.
External fit-and-finish was better than last years, with the new freshening. They’ve gone to 3/8″ stainless steel wire mesh now instead of 1/4″ – up from last year. Bigger wheels too – 4″ instead of 3.5, although it definitely had too much fender gap now – around 18″ worth. The tires didn’t grip particularly well, but look like they’ll be long wearing.
They’ve got better looking model for the Muscular Dystrophy foundation too on the little red plastic flap thingy, which makes for a more pleasant driving experience. The new red handle is going to be controversial, but the design grows on you. Before too long, it’s going to look pretty dated though, I’m afraid. It could use some stickers and maybe a wing for more downforce.
Like all their models, this one is rear-engine, rear drive. As you can imagine, when empty, you’ve got power-on oversteer at will. It certainly turns heads as you go down the aisles making motor noises.
As the cart fills up, however, transitional response tends to suffer. The most notable affect on handling is the new 12-pack-of-Vanilla-Coke option, which goes in the very front, and causes very pronounced understeer until balanced by several six-packs of “Bud” up against the rear firewall. The cart definitely requires two hands for stability at this point – power steering would be welcome addition.
Handling is better overall, although the frame is still pretty flexy. However, an emegency maneuver around an old lady on a walker was executed with little of the drama normally associated with high-speed grocery store lane-changes.
The solid rear axle does a good job of preventing any alignment changes under hard cornering, but transmits a LOT of vibration to the driver, especially on uneven surfaces like the parking lot, curbs, and the Ford Explorer next to you.
The front suspension has plenty of caster, making for good straight-line stability, although at high speeds the right-front had a tendency to wobble badly. This *was* a preproduction model, so I’m hoping tolerances will be tightened up by the time the ’03 carts hit showroom floors.
So overall, I’d say this one was an improvement, although my biggest gripe remains – the brakes are lousy. Manuevering in tight spots remains easy, and the turning raidus is just over 13″. Highs remain that it is lightweight, very roomy, fun to drive, and best of all, easy on the wallet.
Hope that helps you guys make an informed decision next time you’re looking for some grocery-store performance.