2009 Honda City

The all-new Honda City will make its European debut at the Istanbul Motor Show in October.

The compact sedan is a radical departure from the previous generation car, with a totally new exterior style, featuring some visual elements of the stylish Accord. The restyled exterior is joined by a new 1.4 i-VTEC engine, which gives the City significantly more power and better performance.

The new engine, which is also shared with the new Jazz is fitted with Honda's acclaimed i-VTEC system, which provides excellent performance and flexibility, without compromising fuel economy or emissions. The new engine gives the City 100PS, a healthy 17 PS increase over the previous model. This extra power helps the new City complete the benchmark 0-100 km/h in just 11.8 seconds for the manual version, an improvement of 1.6 seconds. The automatic version hits 100 in 14.7 seconds, almost half a second quicker than before.

The manual transmission for City is a modified version of the current gearbox, with carbon synchromesh for smoother changes, improved refinement and a new set of optimised gear ratios. The Automatic transmission is all-new and adds the option to shift gears with steering wheel mounted paddles for the first time. With a sport mode, improved shift logic and ratios the new transmission better compliments the new car's more powerful engine.

The all-new model has been further enhanced over its predecessor with a higher quality of materials, improved aesthetics and functionality. Increased storage capacity around the cabin including a bigger glove box improves practicality, while a new design of seats improves passenger and driver comfort.

The design changes are complimented by several improvements to the Noise Vibration and Harshness technologies applied to the car. A host of new features in the body, interior, suspension, engine and mountings have been included to bring further refinement to Honda's newest sedan. The NVH enhancements allow customers to make the most of the new audio system which offers iPod connectivity and better sound quality.

The New City is based on the platform of the award winning new Honda Jazz, and benefits from the many of the technologies seen in the new hatchback. The longer wheel base gives a significant improvement in interior space as well as the associated ride and handling benefits. Safety performance is also enhanced with the adoption of the ACE Body Structure (Advanced Compatibility Engineering), which better protects occupants of both cars in the event of a collision between vehicles of different heights.

The all-new City will go on sale from January in selected markets.

R8 beats the rest

Many publications were hailing it as the first car to truly be able to beat the Porsche 997 — considered by many[who?] to be one of the best sports cars ever made, and the leader in its class. Initial comparison tests have proven quite positive in this respect; Evo Magazine listed it as a "supercar", compared the R8 to the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, and BMW M6 and after praising the R8's "amazing stability, traction and grip, unparalleled steering accuracy and bite, (and) its uncannily flat and disturbance-free ride", claimed that as a result of "the sublime effortlessness of it all", the Audi is a better sports car. The article concluded that "Audi humbles Porsche. A new dawn starts today".

Other publications have also written similar reviews of the Audi beating the Porsche in comparison tests.

Top Gear compared the Nissan GT-R to the R8, and remarked that the R8 was "simultaneously less impressive and yet somehow more involving". On the R8 they wrote that "it rewards driver input", calling it "fantastic in a way that will appeal more to true car enthusiasts" but also remarked that it was "much slower" and the GT-R was cheaper. On their test track, the car performed better than a Lamborghini Gallardo and an Aston Martin DB9.

First Audi R8 LMS Delivery

Audi Sport Italia receives the Audi R8 LMS with chassis number 101. The symbolic handover of the first customer car was made on Tuesday in the Audi Forum Neckarsulm. Emilio Radaelli, Team Manager of Audi Sport Italia, accepted the R8 LMS from Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

“In the future our new customer sport program represents Audi Sport’s third business field alongside our factory programs in the DTM and in sport prototypes,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “2009 is a test and development year during which we aim to collect as much experience as possible with the R8 LMS. We are delighted to be able to do this with teams with which we are familiar and have established a solid partnership over the years.”

In the 2009 season, Abt Sportsline, Argo Racing, ORECA, Phoenix Racing and Team Rosberg also trust the new GT3 sports car from AUDI AG. Audi Sport will start the delivery to customers for the 2010 season from fall 2009.

The six customer teams plan to race in five European GT3 championships as well as in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring for which Audi Sport has developed an endurance version of the R8 LMS.

Twelve R8 LMS sports cars will be in action in more than 40 events at almost 30 European circuits throughout the 2009 motorsport season. “This allows us to collect a lot of experience which will flow into the development of the R8 LMS,” says Oliver Straube who is responsible for marketing of the R8 LMS at Audi Sport.

With the GT3 race version of the R8, Audi Sport developed a racing sports car specifically for use in customer sport with the GT3 race version. Pure “factory” entries are not planned with the R8 LMS.

The assembly of the race cars including the body shells is made by quattro GmbH in Heilbronn-Biberach in a factory hall specifically for the customer sport program. The Audi factory in Györ, Hungary, deliver the V10 engines.

The new Audi R8 LMS competes in GT3 race series for the first time over the Easter weekend (10 to 13 April). The French GT Championship and the ADAC GT Masters start at the same time at Nogaro (France) and in the Motorsportarena Oschersleben (Germany).

2009 A4 allroad quattro

Audi is launching the A4 allroad quattro. With increased ground clearance and its permanent all-wheel drive, this baby can handle any kind of road or trail; although its tough it also offers driving pleasure - even when your on unpaved surfaces. The quattro features all the innovative technologies:

1)a range of powerful and highly energy-efficient engines.
2)Audi drive select (intelligent handling technology).
3)high-tech S tronic transmission.
4)innovative communication and assistance systems.

The vehicle will be available in early summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros.

* The A4 allroad quattro is right at home on any road - and offroad
* quattro permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance
* Sporty character and innovative high-end technology

The design of the Audi A4 allroad quattro recalls the A4 Avant: crisp lines enclose tastefully curved surfaces and the low roof line establishes a coupé-like silhouette. Striking details re-interpret this model line's sporty elegance. The moon-gray single-frame radiator grille bears vertical chrome strips; an accentuated bumper and large air inlets underscore this vehicle's unique identity. Chrome rings encircle the fog lights. And in the option featuring xenon plus headlights, light-emitting diodes comprise the daytime running lights and taillights. Underneath the front end and tail end, the A4 allroad has a stainless-steel underbody guard.

Viewed from the side, the vehicle dazzles with flared wheel arches, angular sills (available with stainless-steel insert strips), and large wheels - 17-inch wheels in 7-arm design are standard. The roof is capped off by an offset rail with two high crosspieces. The width of the A4 allroad quattro is emphasized by the rear bumper's distinctive styling and the integrated horizontal reflectors. On the 2.0 TDI, the two exhaust tailpipes appear side by side; on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI, they terminate to the left and to the right.

Final say
* The A4 allroad quattro is right at home on any road - and offroad
* quattro permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance
* Sporty character and innovative high-end technology

The new 2009 Audi A4

Stretching nearly five inches overall, more than two inches wider, and a six-inch-longer, the 2009 A4 is closing in on A6 dimensions (the wheelbase is 1.3 inches shorter). Being the largest in its class, nearly three inches longer than the C-Class and seven longer than the 3 Series sedan. With that increase in length and width and a minor reduction in height (making lower by less than 0.1 inch), the new model has a intergrated, sportier stance and holds the road with a new sense of confidence and enthusiasm.

Its new underpinnings are shared with the upcoming S5 and A5 coupes, and an A4 Avant will go on sale in the U.S. at the same time as the sedan. Like the A5/S5, the new A4 has sculpted lines, a more aggressive front end, and a row of LED daytime running lights underlining each headlamp. Thanks to the liberal use of ultra-high-strength steel, the body weighs 10 percent less than last year's, yet is more rigid. The side view is rather familiar-time will tell if this redesign was too conservative, especially compared with the aggressive lines of the new C-Class.


Audi A4 interior is completely redesigned, with high-quality materials and clean, attractive design continue to live up to Audi's stellar reputation. Black leather seats and matching black door panels contrasted nicely with patterned brushed aluminum accents. The redesigned center stack is easy to use, and MMI is now a part of the A4's layout -- we've heard it will be standard with the 3.2 (optional) optional. The cabin is larger in every dimension, front and rear seats are now more comfortable, and there's more rear-seat legroom than in the outgoing model. The trunk is bigger -- now 17.0 cubic feet, up from 13.4. Regardless, leather will be standard and should come in a choice of colors. Stereo options will include a choice of Bang & Olufsen stereo systems, including the excellent 14-speaker setup, plus a six-disc CD changer and iPod connectivity. In the cabin are more safety features: six airbags will be standard and rear-side airbags optional.

When the A4 goes on sale, it will initially be offered in quattro form only, with one engine and transmission –
a new 3.2-liter,
265-horsepower V-6 backed by a ZF six-speed automatic.

A second engine will follow -- expect an all-new 2.0T four and a manual and/or DSG with quattro as an option. The direct-injection V-6 uses Audi's two-stage valve-lift system, which makes more efficient use of the engine to improve fuel economy by six percent. The A4 gets to 62 mph in an estimated 6.2 seconds when backed by the manual, and the transmission's shifts are quick and easy to control with the steering-wheel-mounted paddles. And, through the reduced weight of the body, reduction in drag (down from a 0.31 Cd to approximately 0.29), and changes to the air conditioner (now 10 percent more powerful and the fuel consumption needed to run it has been reduced by 20 percent), fuel economy has improved.

Audi R8 Pros And Cons Plus Overview

A high-tech content, unique mechanical layout, and original style making it an exotic for those seeking more than just raw performance.

Pros
The balance of handling ability, ride comfort, high-tech suspension and transmission, beautiful cockpit, an upscale interior design and materials, plus an easy-to-drive nature.

Cons
Couldn't challage the straight-line pace of a Porsche 911 Turbo or Corvette Z06, plus the lack of factory-supplied customizing features.

New features for Audi R8 2008
The 2008 Audi R8 is the first midengine exotic sports car. Having an aggressive style, an aluminum body structure, a powerful 420-horsepower V8 and all-wheel drive.


2008 Audi R8 Overview

2006 was the year when the Audi R8 first made its appearance, all over the world through road show and events. In 2005 Audi announced.
Having high horse in an era when speed comes cheaper than ever, launching a six figure sports car manufacturers had better conjure something really unique to the eyes of the people. So the midengine was born to be that unique thing and could just be thing very thing they need.

some of the design aspects of the R8 sometimes reminds us of a Porsche, a Corvette or the late Acura NSX, but since the R8 carries a 4.2-liter V8 in its midsection, shoots a killer 420 hp to all four wheels, offers two transmissions and wraps it all in a futuristic aluminum space frame, this clearly shows its attitude. A nice $70-grand-lower price tag ensures the competition will be kept to a minimum.

The R8 is really an undoubtedly fast car. Sixty miles per hour comes up in 4.4 seconds (man thats hot), top speed of 187 mph arrives not much later, and tire grip approaches a full g (just beautiful). Between the bigger differences: having a six-speed manual or "R tronic" transmission (Audi's newest take on the clutchless manual); Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive allows hard driving giving new level of confidence; and perhaps above all, the R8 incorporates Audi's usual concessions to comfort rather than raw performance. Consider its advanced, ride-friendly electromagnetic shock absorbers, for such.


Pricing information,

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
Coming with a two-door, midengine, all-wheel-drive coupe. Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels, a retractable rear spoiler, automatic climate control, leather-and-Alcantara suede power-adjustable sport seats, LED brake lights and turn signals, aluminum trim, xenon headlights and a seven-speaker CD stereo.

Theres aloso a carbon-fiber "sideblade" exterior styling panels but better hurry its limited, a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo, a navigation system and upgraded napa leather upholstery.


Powertrains and Performance

Using a midmounted 4.2-liter V8 the Audi R8 can make up to 420 hp and 317 pound-feet of torque, beacuse of the direct fuel injection and a high compression ratio.

Power gets sent to all four wheels (56 percent to the rears in normal conditions) through one of two transmissions: a traditional six-speed manual or Audi's six-speed R tronic -- essentially a manual transmission with a single computer-controlled clutch that allows shifting via the lever or steering wheel-mounted paddles.R tronic offers a fully automatic mode as well. In testing, we've found that the manual-shift R8 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and passes the quarter-mile in 12.8 seconds.

Safety
These days safety is a important factor for the 2008 Audi R8 it protects both occupants with seat-mounted side airbags and knee-protecting airbags. Antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control are all standard.


The Last word for the Audi R8
It is recommended you choose the traditional manual transmission, as Audi's R tronic can occasionally be a bit fussy in day-to-day driving situations due to its delayed shifting reactions. But overall its a beautiful car

Audi R8 detail and performance

Equipped with a 4.2 L FSI V8 developing 420 PS (414 hp/309 kW), the same engine used in the B7 Audi RS4.

Audi R8

Transmission has two types either a manual gearbox with metal gate, or a "R-tronic" gearbox a single-clutch robotic gearbox. These options are the same that are available on the Lamborghini Gallardo. The double clutch gearbox (DSG, S-tronic) is still not available

Having dry weight of 1560 kg (3439 lb). The suspension utilizes magneto rheological dampers.

Having share 15% with the Lamborghini Gallardo, including the transmission and chassis. The R8 is made distinct by its exterior styling, cabin, engine and pricing.

The Audi R8 has an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system, and Carbon-Ceramic composite brakes with monobloc Brembo calipers on all four wheels.


PEROFRMANCE

Evo Magazine in its comparison test between the R8, 911 Carrera 4S, Aston Martin V8 Vantage and BMW M6 have claimed that the Audi is a better supercar saying that "Audi humbles Porsche.

Having a topspeed of 187 mph (301km/h). Can reach from 0-60mph (96 km/h) in wonderful 4.0 seconds hows that for speed adn elegance. Gas milage 1/4 mile (~400 m)thats around 12.5 seconds @ 113.2 mph (182.2 km/h). The engine is a V8 with a Displacement of 4.2 L (4163 cc), Power 414 bhp (309 kW) @ 7800 rpm and Lateral Acceleration
(200 feet (61 m) skidpad) is 1.01 g

The TT roadster

The TT Roadster is a fine example. Its famous shape has been carefully evolved for the second-generation model, with edgier lines giving it a more up-to-date look.

Which engine should you go for? the coupé, has the entry-level 2.0T FSI, not the range-topping 3.2-litre V6,

Pumping out 197bhp and 280Nm of torque, using the four-cylinder turbocharged motor. And it's a cracking powerplant. Propelling the Roadster from 0-62mph in only 6.7 seconds and on to 147mph, it's hardly any slower than the 3.2-litre V6.

The positive shift of the six-speed manual transmission enhances in-gear throttle response, and overtaking ability is strong. What's more, the addition of twin balancer shafts means the engine is smooth right up to its 7,000rpm red line. It's economical as well, posting a combined fuel consumption figure of 36.2mpg - which compares well with the V6's 27.2mpg.

There are further benefits when it comes to handling. All TT Roadsters use lightweight Audi Space Frame technology, meaning that 58 per cent of the body is made from aluminium and 42 per cent is steel. The front-wheel-drive 2.0T FSI is even lighter, tipping the scales at 1,295kg - that's 175kg less than its more powerful brother.

Factor in a chassis which is much stiffer than its predecessor's - with no scuttle shake or vibration through the interior mirror - and the result is a machine that is extremely agile and great fun to drive. The new model is much more involving, with direct steering, excellent body control and lots of grip.

There is even a fair degree of throttle adjustability, with a mid-corner lift of the accelerator tucking the nose in neatly. Compared to the quattro model, traction suffers a little in the wet, particularly when accelerating out of junctions, but that's the only real negative.

Audi R8, a very special sports coupe

The Audi R8's well proportioned design screams speed. The R8's leather-clad cockpit is spacious and well appointed. Even the R8's manual six-speed gear shifter is elegant. The European Audi R8 will also be the first production vehicle to feature all-LED headlights. The Audi R8 also features an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

2008 Audi R8
Type:
Mid-engine, all-wheel drive sports coupe

Retail price:
$109,000-$134,750

Engine:
4.2-liter V-8, 420-horsepower, 317-pound-feet torque

Transmission:
6-speed manual or automatic

EPA mileage
# Manual: 13 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
# Automatic: 13 city / 19 highway


Report card

Exterior: Excellent.
Smooth, sleek and bulletlike. Its wide stance and deceptively long body add to its intimidating exterior.

Interior: Excellent.
The seats hold you firmly in even the tightest of corners.

Safety: Excellent.
Front, knee and side air bags. Precise handling, stability control and anti-lock brakes.

Performance: Unbelievable.
Fast and furious.

Pros: Beautiful and beastly:
Will be noticed everywhere you go. Other super sports cars are often considerably more.

Cons:
Don't drive it to any Green Peace meetings. Powerful engine gobbles up fuel.

2007 Ford Shelby GT

The '07 Shelby GT points back to the original Shelby Mustang GT350. The 2007 Shelby GT keeps all of the classic Mustang lines but adds an even more aggressive look. The interior is comfortable, uncluttered and classic Mustang.

2007 Ford Shelby GT

Type:
Rear-wheel drive sports coupe

Retail price:
$36,970-$42.350

Models:
One, but two colors, black or white

Engine:
4.6-liter V-8 producing 319-horsepower, 330-pound-feet torque

Transmission:
5-speed manual with Hurst shifter or 5-speed automatic

EPA mileage:
16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway


Report card

# Exterior: Excellent.
Mean and powerful looking Mustang, special Shelby touches makes this car stand out.

# Interior: Good.
Spartan feel adds to the car's mystique, very comfortable for front passengers.

# Safety: Good.
Front and side airbags and traction control.

# Performance: Good.
Powerful and fun on open roads.

# Pros: Pure Mustang.
Looks, feels and acts like the muscle cars from its heritage.

# Cons:
Not nimble on tight corners and interior feels bare bones.

# Notes: If you love Mustangs, you'll love this car.


Specifications

* Engine: 5.4-liter, DOHC, 32-valve, 90-degree V-8
* Aspiration: Eaton M122 Roots-type Supercharger w/Air-to-water Intercooler
* Drive Wheels: RWD
* Body/frame: Unit Steel w/Aluminum Hood
* Front Brakes: Brembo Vented Discs w/4-Piston Calipers
* Rear Brembo Vented Discs w/Twin-Piston Calipers
* Brake Size (front/rear): 14 in./11.8 in.
* Wheel Size (front): 18 in. x 9.5 in.
* Wheel Size (rear): 18 in. x 9.5 in.
* Tire Size (front): P255/45ZR18
* Tire Size (rear): P285/40ZR18
* Steering: Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist
* Front Suspension: Reverse-L independent MacPherson strut, 34mm tubular stabilizer bar
* Rear Suspension: Three-link solid axle with coil springs, shocks, Panhard rod, 24mm solid stabilizer bar
* Wheelbase: 107.1 in.
* Length: 187.6 in.
* Width: 73.9 in.
* Height: 54.5 in.
* Curb Weight: Coupe - 3920 LB (1780) K Convertible - 4040 LB (1834) K
* Weight Distribution (front/rear): 57%/43%
* Track (front/rear): 61.9 in./62.5 in.
* Interior volume, F/R/cargo (cu. ft.) 53/33/12

Performance

* Horsepower: 500 bhp
* Torque: 480 lb.-ft.
* 0-60 mph: 4.6 sec.
* Quarter-Mile: 12.9 sec. @ 112 mph
* Top Speed: 155 mph (Electronically Limited)
* Coefficient of Drag: 0.38
* Horsepower Per Liter: 83.19 bhp
* Horsepower Per Weight: 188.92 bhp

2008 Saturn Vue

The new generation's body goes crossover curvy, shedding its straight-laced body panels. It looks more car than truck, and that's a welcome change.

The new Vue's exterior is more innocuous than decisive. It looks nice, but it looks like everything else. If you want something that stands out, go elsewhere. That's not a negative comment, nice and inoffensive seems to be exactly what many consumers want. Everything on the exterior is thought out and precise. Things like the dual chrome-tipped exhaust pipes, the front fender moldings with a turn indicator mounted in it, and the roof rack are nice touches.

The fold flat split second row and front passenger seat allow for a number of ways to carry cargo.

2008 Saturn Vue

# Type:
A front-wheel drive, five-passenger crossover. All-wheel drive and mild hybrid models are available.

# Models:
XE, XR, Red Line and Green Line

# Retail price:
$21,355 - $32,000

# Engines
2.4-liter I-4, 164 hp, 160-lb-ft torque
3.5-liter V-6, 222-hp, 219-lb-ft torque
3.6-liter V-6, 250-hp, 243-lb-ft torque

# Transmission:
four- or six-speed automatic, sequential shifting available

# EPA mileage
2.4-liter: XE, FWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
3.5-liter: XE, AWD: 15/22
3.6-liter: XR FWD: 16/23, XR FWD w/ tap shifting: 16/24, XR AWD: 16/22

Performance: Good.
Good power with the V-6. Well mannered on the road, in parking lots and through tight turns.

Exterior: Good.
Stylish design stays true to its German heritage.

Interior: Excellent.
Well-laid out. Feels comfortable and uses cubbies, bins and drawers in good ways. Feels more luxurious than price.

Safety: Excellent.
Six standard airbags include side curtain for both rows. Anti lock brakes and electronic stability control standard. Collapsible pedals and active front row head restraints.

Pros:
Versatile crossover with good performance and excellent interior.

Cons:
Exterior design does not stand out in crowded crossover segment.

The Vue's instrument panel and dash is thoughtfully laid out and well built.

2007 Toyota Tundra

The 2007 Toyota Tundra packs plenty to scare the bejesus out of the American pickup makers: The second-generation Tundra is the best truck Toyota Motor Corp. has ever built.

It's big, it's powerful, and it promises more potency than a Viagra commercial: Bigger brakes, bigger gears and a bigger body must mean it's a bigger truck.

Type: Full size pickup truck

Models: 31 model configurations

Retail price: $22,935 to $42,495

Engines
# 4-liter V-6, 236-hp, 266-lb-ft
# 4.7-liter V-8, 271-hp, 313-lb-ft
# 5.7-liter V-8, 381-hp, 401-lb-ft

Transmission: Five-speed or six-speed automatic

EPA mileage
# 4-liter: (4x2)17 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
# 4.7-liter: (4x2 and 4x4) 15 mpg / 18 mpg
# 5.7-liter: (4x2) 16 mpg / 20 mpg
(4x4) 14 mpg / 18 mpg

Performance : Excellent:
When equipped with the 5.7-liter engine, the Tundra is powerful. It handles very well for such a large truck.
Exterior: Good :
Big and menacing, but lacks originality.

Interior: Average:
Very functional with lots of useful storage but feels cold and clinical.

Safety: Excellent:
A host of standard safety features include front and side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control.

2008 Audi TT coupe and convertible

The redesigned 2008 Audi TT coupe is longer, wider and faster.

2008 Audi TT coupe and convertible

Type:
A rear-wheel drive two-passenger convertible or 2+2 coupe.

Models:
Coupe (with 2+2 seating); Roadster (two-seater)

Retail price*:
$35,575 -- $50,000

Engines:
# 2-liter 4-cylinder turbo, 200 horsepower, 207-pound-feet torque;
# 3.2-liter V-6: 250-horsepower, 236-pound-feet torque

Transmission:
# 2-liter: six-speed automatic with sequential shifting.
# 3.2-liter: six-speed automatic with sequential shifting or six-speed manual.

EPA mileage

# 2-liter:
Coupe: 23 mpg / 31 mpg
Roadster:
22/29

# 3.2-liter (both types with automatic transmission):18/24

# 3.2-liter (both types with manual transmission): 17/24

Notes:
Expect a six-speed manual transmission to come with the 2-liter engine in the coming years
*Includes shipping


Performance:
Excellent. Engine is powerful for such a light vehicle. Optional sports tuned suspension package makes both vehicles a hoot to drive.

Exterior: Excellent.
Sleek lines and distinctive style maintain Audi's upscale character.

Interior: Excellent.
Luxury at your fingertips and flat bottom steering wheel makes it even feel different and special.

Safety: Excellent.
Front and side-curtain airbags as well as electronic stability control.

Pros:
It's comfortable and fun to drive; you'll never want to get to where you're going. The best deal is the coupe with the 2-liter engine.

Cons:
Cramped trunk space and steep price tag could keep the TT convertible from being a daily driver.

3.2 liter V-6 engine in the 2008 Audi TT produces 250 horsepower.

2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350

SLK 350 - new 3.5 L (3498 cc) 200 kW (272 hp DIN) double overhead cam V6 engine, 0-100 km/h (62 mph) 5.4 seconds, top speed 155 mph (electronically limited).

Ride, acceleration and handling:
Acceleration and handling are top-notch. The electronic stability-control system in the SLK 350 is one of the best available--constantly monitoring steering inputs and quickly acting to correct errors, such as turning too quickly into a curve. Ride is excellent for trips of 50 miles or so on relatively clear roads. But with its cramped cabin and up-righteous seats, trips of longer durations, especially in heavy traffic, can become a chore.

Head-turning quotient:
Deliberately hot, sexy, sporty. It turns heads everywhere.

Body style/layout:
The SLK 350 is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive luxury roadster with a power-operated, convertible hardtop roof. It has two side doors, two seats, no cabin space for cargo and a teeny trunk that can handle two small overnight bags. SLK models include the tested 350, the base 280 and the top-of-the-line SLK 55 AMG.

Engine/transmission:
Standard equipment includes a 3.5-liter, 24-valve, V-6 engine that develops 268 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute and 258 foot-pounds of torque at 2,400 rpm. The engine is linked to a six-speed manual transmission. A seven-speed automatic transmission that also can be shifted manually is optional ... for $1,430.

Capacities:
There are two seats. Cargo capacity is 9.8 cubic feet. The fuel tank holds 18.5 gallons of required premium unleaded gasoline.

Mileage:
We had a city/highway mileage of 20 miles per gallon.

Safety:
Antilock brakes, electronic stability and traction control, and side air bags are standard.

Price:
Base price on the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 Roadster with manual transmission is $47,400. Dealer's invoice price on that model is $44,082. Price as tested is $57,620, including $9,445 in options (key fob that can operate doors, convertible hardtop and windows; premium audio system; Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid emergency communications system; onboard navigation; Sirius Satellite Radio, among many other spiffs) and a $775 destination charge. Dealer's price as tested is $53,640. Prices sourced from Mercedes-Benz and www.edmunds.com.

Purse-strings note:
It's a great toy. Compare with BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster.

Complaints:
It's expensive, impractical and designed to stay that way.

Dodge Nitro 2007

The 2007 Dodge Nitro is an all new mid-size SUV monster. Dodge redesigned the full-size Durango in 2004, and since then has been planning the Nitro. There are many mid-size SUVs out there, and Dodge wanted the Nitro to be distinctive, in order to keep up its reputation for bold styling. The result is a very squared-off vehicle, with larger fender flares.

The Nitro looks and feels larger than its size, with a high seating position that SUV owners enjoy, and good cabin space. It features a cargo storage system whereby the rear seats and front passenger seat fold totally flat in seconds; additionally, the cargo floor slides rearward out over the rear bumper, and can hold 400 pounds, making the loading of heavy objects much simpler.

The Nitro comes in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, with a choice of V6 engines, one old and one new version. The new 4.0-liter V6 is better than the old 3.7-liter, with 50 more HP and fuel economy that's only a few miles per gallon less. However the 4.0-liter engine only comes in the top-of-the-line R/T model, which costs about $2700 more than the most popular SLT but a five-speed automatic also comes with the R/T, and that transmission is better than the standard four-speed in the SLT.

There are three types of upholstery: cloth, a stain-repellant cloth, and perforated leather. No matter which interior option, the seats are very comfortable. The cabin is quiet thanks to heavy use of sound deadening material, and visibility out the rear and to the front corners of the Nitro is excellent.

For a base price of $19,225, a Nitro owner gets many safety features that are usually optional on other vehicles, such as front and rear side airbags, side curtain airbags, an electronic stability program with traction control and brake assist, and a tire-pressure monitor to cap it all off.

Model Lineup

The 2007 Dodge Nitro comes as three models, each with a choice of two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).

There are three models of the new 2007 Dodge Nitro: the SXT in 2WD, $20,735 with part-time 4WD), SLT ($22,635 and $24,145) and R/T and with full-time 4WD); all prices plus $660 delivery.

The SXT ($19,225) comes with a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 and a choice of 6 speed manual transmission or 4 speed automatic ($1000). The 4WD model ($20,735) uses a part-time four-wheel-drive system. Standard equipment includes cloth upholstery, air conditioning, remote entry with power windows and door locks, 115-volt power outlet, flat folding front passenger seat, 60/40 folding rear bench seat, AM/FM/CD with MP3 and six speakers, traction control and brake assist, slate-colored molded front and fender flares, folding power mirrors, rear window washer/wiper, and 16-inch wheels.

The SLT ($22,635) and SLT 4WD ($24,145) come standard with the auto trans. The SLT adds stain-resistant cloth seats, power six-way adjustable driver's seat, leather steering wheel with audio controls, overhead console, cruise control, heated mirrors, compass, auto-dimming rearview mirror, vehicle information instrumentation, tinted windows, body-colored front and rear fascias and fender flares, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

The R/T ($25,310) has a new 4.0-liter V6 making 260 horsepower, joined to a five-speed automatic. The R/T 4WD model ($26,970) has a full-time four-wheel-drive system. The R/T comes with a sports suspension with 20-inch wheels and Goodyear Eagle tires. The R/T is equipped like the SLT, though it also has Satellite Radio.

Options for all three models include a power sunroof, foglamps, full-size spare tire, and trailer tow package. Full-time 4WD is an option on the part-time 4WD SXT and SLT models. Options for the SLT and R/T include leather upholstery, navigation system, remote start, hands-free phone, luxury sound system with eight speakers plus subwoofer. The optional Multimedia Info-tainment System features navigation, audio, entertainment and communication wrapped into one, along with voice-command and a 20-gigabyte hard drive to store music and photos.
Dodge Nitro Reviews
Walkaround

Dodge publicity makes a big thing about the Nitro's looks, citing its so-called athleticism. We're not sure. We might call it brawny, but mostly it just looks boxy. The exaggerated fender flares are the only rounded parts in the styling. Every other angle is square-ish. It looks and feels larger than mid-size, which some will find to be a good thing.

From the front, it's unmistakably Dodge. It's got that big crosshair grille, which looks much better in body color (R/T) than chrome (SXT, SLT). The horizontal headlamps, turn signal slits and foglamps are a tidy fit in the massive face.

However it doesn't appear as if much attempt was made to have the front bumper/fascia be tidy; it's got edges all over the place, including a valley that might hold a three-foot-wide license plate, or maybe a bumper sticker that says, "I'm a Dodge so I'm in your face!" Under that, there's a wide air intake for the power steering cooler, whose thin fins are exposed to flying stones because there is no screen.

Taking a cue from the faux portholes on the Buick Lucerne, or possibly the tradition of a Mercedes-Benz sports car, there's a trapezoid-shaped insert, black plastic with three chrome ribs, located just forward of the mirrors. It's intended to look like a cooling slot. It's a nice touch, and for such a small piece it goes a long way toward relaxing the Nitro's blocky shape.

In silhouette, with its relatively upright windshield, very high beltline and rectangular windows, plus short front overhang, its shape is reminiscent of, say, a '62 Dodge Power Wagon. But from the rear three-quarter angle, the lines around the rear glass are reminiscent of its bigger cousin, the Jeep Commander. We like the cleaner black, rather than chrome, around the windows.

Our test Nitro R/T was equipped with standard 20-inch chromed aluminum wheels, and they sure are showy. The much narrower sidewall on the 20-inch tires doesn't appear to offer much defense against flats.

Interior Features

The SXT comes in a basic cloth, but the cloth in the SLT and R/T is something called YES Essentials; it claims to repel stains, control odors and reduce static electricity. The optional perforated charcoal leather with red stitching in our test R/T was beautiful. The front buckets were very comfortable and supportive, with excellent bolstering.

The steering wheel is a handsome four-spoke, with a big center hub and thick spokes at 9:00 and 3:00 o'clock, smaller spokes at 5 and 7; the info center buttons are under your thumb on the big spokes. There are three big main instruments: speedo in center, tach on right and fuel and temp on left. They're very good looking and especially legible, with the digital information still visible in the sun because the three pods are thoughtfully shrouded. Chrysler does gauges right, and generally blows GM out of the water when it comes to handsome style and function.

There's good front seat legroom, and it feels like there's even more because the dashboard is narrow, making the cabin feel nothing like that in a minivan. The dash also has an insert over the center stack, about 6 by 9 inches with grippy rubber at the bottom, and it's perfect for, well, things. The glovebox is the full width of the passenger side.

Rearview visibility is very good, with just windows back there, no attempt at swoopy styling with sheetmetal. And again, because the front fenders have no rise or real shape, it's easy to see the front corners of the vehicle, making parking a relief compared to many vehicles this size.

The square theme continues with the center stack and its instruments and buttons for the sound system and climate control, although nowadays many cars look like that, which isn't bad, just almost natural. Everything is clean, easy to operate, and easy to understand. We especially like the door handles, an intelligent ergonomic design: they're like a half loop, and you simply slip three or four fingers of the hand against the door inside the handle, fingers facing forward so there's no twist of the wrist, and pull.

Between the seats, along with the gearshift, transfer case, and emergency brake lever, there are two fixed cupholders and a small recess for change. There's a shallow tray in the top of the center console storage bin, and a deep compartment under that; as one lady on the press launch said, it's big enough to stash her cat, on road trips.

But the Nitro really rises to the occasion behind the front seat. The Load 'n Go function quickly and easily flops the 60/40 rear seats and front passenger seat totally flat. With the liftgate raised, the carpeted (washable vinyl on the SXT) cargo floor slides rearward 18 inches, out over the bumper, saving a loader's back. It can hold 400 pounds.

Under half of the cargo floor there's a four-inch-deep compartment that can store things such as jumper cables and tools, or hide a laptop.

For the past couple of years, Dodge has been working hard on making their SUVs quiet, and the Nitro succeeds. The 3.7-liter engine is rather loud, but the Nitro's sound-deadening material muffles it well.

Finally, the air conditioning might be fine on a normal day, but it seemed marginal for hot conditions.

Driving Impressions

After long cruises in both the Dodge Nitro SLT 4WD and R/T 2WD, we prefer the R/T.

The 3.7-liter engine in the SLT is slightly harsh and too slow, and the four-speed automatic transmission needs another gear; we floored the SLT once at 40 mph, and the tranny didn't kick down and the vehicle felt wimpy. The suspension takes bumps with a jolt, especially at lower speeds and mostly at the front wheels. And when we turned off the stability control and drove it aggressively around a hairpin turn, the front end washed out as badly as anything we've felt in a long time, on its Goodyear Wrangler tires. This was surprising, because the Nitro is a rear-wheel-drive design.

The R/T costs about $2700 more, but it's def. worth it. It's better looking, with more of its trim in the same color as the body, although the 20" chrome wheels are a bit expensive (as a $1405 option on the SLT, too bad you can't get 17-" size on the R/T and save the money). Chrysler's R/T models are considered higher performance, but in this case it's not hot-rod high performance.

The 4.0-liter V6 is a new single overhead-cam engine. It's rated at 260 horsepower, 50 more than the engine in the SLT, and it provides 265 pound-feet of torque at 4200 rpm. That's a lot of horsepower and torque, and we can't say that the R/T really feels like it has that much.

The R/T engine is quieter than the 3.7-liter in the SLT, and it gets nearly the same mileage: 17 city and 21 highway in 2WD, with 89 octane recommended but 87 acceptable. We got 16.7 mpg driving the R/T very hard.

The five-speed automatic transmission makes a difference in smoothness over the 4-speed. However in manual mode, it doesn't do well. It responds to a shift by the driver (at least this driver) about half the time. As a result, passing on highways is unnecessarily dangerous. The upshifts near redline (6000 rpm) are also a bit slow. And the shift mechanism is not comfortable, either.

The handling of the R/T is reasonable, and considerably more direct than the SLT; quality tires help quite a bit. But it's the ride that's much better, in this 2WD model. In theory, the R/T's tuned suspension should be much more firm, and surely it is a better vehicle overall, but it's also a lot more comfortable.

Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape Hybrid is a gas-electric hybrid powered version of the Ford Escape crossover SUV developed by the Ford Motor Company. It is the first hybrid SUV to hit the market. A similar vehicle, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid is sold by Ford's Mercury marque, and a third variation, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, is now sold by Mazda since 2006.

The Escape Hybrid's 133 horsepower (99 kW) gasoline engine and 94 hp electric motor combine to give performance similar to the 200 hp V6 engine commonly used in the regular Escape. The hybrid is said to give approximately 75% greater efficiency, with about 33 to 36 mpg in city traffic, (and has demonstrated it can travel 400–500 miles on a single 16.5 gallon tank of gasoline in city driving), and 29 to 31 mpg on the highway. Unlike conventional vehicles, hybrids often achieve better figures in the city because they do not waste power idling and can recover some power when stopping (by using regenerative braking) that would be wasted on a conventional vehicle.

Ford Escape Hybrid Specifications

* Fuel Economy City 36MPG/Highway 31MPG(2WD), City 33MPG/Highway 29MPG (AWD)

* 0 - 60mph - approximately 9 seconds

* Displacement 2.3 liter

* Net Power 155 horsepower

* Gas Engine Power 133 horsepower

* Electric Motor Power 94 horsepower

* Net Torque 124 lb.-ft.

* Gas Engine Torque 124 lb.-ft. @ 4250 RPM

* Electric Motor Torque 100 lb.-ft. @ 840 RPM

* Towing Capacity 1,000 pounds

* Tank Size 15 gallons

* Battery Output 330 volts

* Drag Coefficient .29

* Seating 5

* Passenger Space 100 cubic feet

* Cargo Space 27.6 cubic feet

Hyundai Grandeur

The Grandeur TG is a full-size sedan introduced for the 2006 model year. A redesigned XG350, it shares a platform with the Sonata. It is sold as the Hyundai Azera in North America, China, Taiwan, Philippines, Iran , Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Chile.

Being a step up from the Sonata, the Azera is priced at US$24,995 for a base model, US$27,495 for the Limited version, and $29,995 for the Ultimate Package. The flagship Azera will be the most luxurious sedan Hyundai is selling outside of Korea, China, and the Middle East, until 2008, when an all-new rear-wheel drive luxury sedan called the Genesis is released under the Hyundai name in North America to test the waters for a future luxury brand.

The Azera has a four-wheel independent suspension (multi-link in the rear) and uses the company's new 3.8 L Lambda V6, which produces 263 hp (196 kW). The power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission with "Shiftronic" manual gear selection. Hyundai claims 6.0 s to accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) and a top speed of 157 mph (252 km/h). Fuel economy of 19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km) in the city and 28 mpg (8.4 L/100 km) on the highway is expected.

The 2.2 VGT CRDI diesel engine from the Santa Fe is also available in Europe.

The Limited trim level adds 17 in alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather seat-upholstery, and a power sun shade in the rear window. The Ultimate Package includes an enhanced audio system with 10 speakers and a 6 CD changer, a power sunroof, telescopic steering wheel, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The Azera was named "Best New Family Car (over CAN$35,000)" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards. It also was awarded by Car and Driver as having slightly more rear legroom than a BMW 5 Series. It is also said to have more overall interior room than the BMW 5 Series.

Kia Rondo

Available as a 5- or optional 7-passenger vehicle with either a standard 162 hp 2.4l 4-cylinder engine or an optional 182 hp 2.7l V6 engine in two trim levels.

Standard features include: 16" alloy wheels, AM/FM/CD player, Air Conditioning, Power Windows and Door Locks, Front/Side/Full length Side Curtain airbags, 4-wheel Disc Brakes, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, LATCH, Child safety door locks, Tilt steering column, Front and Rear 12v outlets, Front and Rear Cupholders.

Options include:
Moonroof, Leather interior, Heated front seats, Cruise Control, Keyless entry, Infinity 10-speaker stereo.

Although Kia calls the Rondo a crossover, it is still a compact minivan that competes mainly up against the successful Mazda5. But unlike the Mazda5, the Rondo doesn't need to have sliding doors because of the larger Sedona having them. The Rondo is the cheapest minivan in North America, with a price of US$16,995.

Nimble Acura MDX is a station wagon, it's no SUV

The Acura MDX SH-AWD is a station wagon, albeit a pricey one with leather seats and every conceivable electronic device, including a "super-handling all-wheel-drive" (SH-AWD) system that improves turning precision by automatically varying power to the rear drive wheels in curves.

Ride, handling, acceleration:
The MDX gets excellent marks in all three categories. It drives, feels, handles and accelerates in the manner of a much smaller, tighter vehicle--on paved roads.

Head-turning quotient:
Flowing, elegant lines. I love its interior--rich, ergonomically sensible, comfortable--the perfect passenger cabin for a long road trip.

Body style/layout:
The 2007 Acura MDX is a front-engine, all-wheel-drive, mid-size luxury wagon with a rear lift-gate. It is a work of unitized body construction on a mid-size car platform.
Engine/transmission: The Acura MDX SH-AWD comes with a 3.7-liter, 24-valve, V-6 engine that develops 300 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute and 275 foot-pounds of torque at 5,000 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that also can be shifted manually.

Capacities:
There is seating for seven with the rearmost foldable seats suitable only for small people. Cargo capacity is 15 cubic feet with three rows of seats up and 84 cubic feet with second and third rows folded. The MDX can be equipped to tow a trailer weighing 5,000 pounds. Fuel capacity is 21 gallons of required premium unleaded gasoline.
Mileage: I averaged 20 miles per gallon in highway driving. My assistant averaged 15 mpg in city-suburban commuting.

Safety:
Impressive. Improved rear-end crash protection, side and head air bags, antilock brakes, and electronic stability and traction control make the MDX one of the safest wagons available in North America.

Price:
Base price for the 2007 Acura MDX SH-AWD with the sport and entertainment package is $47,795. Dealer invoice price on the base model is $43,326. There are no options for this one at this writing. Add a $670 transportation charge. Price as tested is $48,465. Dealer's price as tested is $43,996.

Purse-strings note:
It's an excellent, albeit expensive, wagon. Compare with BMW X-5, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Veracruz, Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

Complaints:
End the misleading silliness. Stop calling the Acura MDX and similar vehicles SUVs. They're not. They're wagons. The buying public has no problem accepting them as wagons. Automotive marketers need to grow up.

Acura TL Type-S

286-hp. V-6 engine derived from that in Acura's flagship RL sedan. The performance-tuned suspension of the Type-S is potent, too, especially on one's bottom. The handling is as tight as the proverbial drum, but the ride is very hard.

Except for the front-drive layout, which means some torque steer on hard acceleration, the ride is the only serious downside of this car, and I'd suggest you not minimize it if you routinely drive long distances and/or on bad roads. If so, the more basic TL might be a better choice.

The Type-S gets a sport-tuned suspension setup, of course, as well as steering calibrated for higher effort and better ``on-center' feel.

In the Type-S, the automatic can be shifted with paddles located behind the steering wheel; in both TLs drivers also can shift manually with the console-mounted gearshift lever.

With four-piston Brembo brake calipers at the ready, the Type-S stops as well as it goes.

Acura also says the Type-S has its own high-flow exhaust system, but you'll hear little evidence of it unless you accelerate hard; at cruising speeds the engine is quiet.

The TL's cabin is well-insulated against noise. Acura credits ``active noise cancellation' for some of that. The system senses cabin noise through a microphone in the headliner and then creates opposite sound waves to cancel the noise, using the radio speakers.

The Type-S is offered in four variants, starting at $38,125 with freight: with a six-speed stick shift or the five-speed automatic transmission I sampled, and with or without high-performance tires, Bridgestone Potenza summer models.

Since the automatic transmission is a no-cost option, the price differences among the four variants are no more than $200.

A Lexus ES 350 will hit $38,000 as soon as the navigation system/Mark Levinson stereo package is added.

At least in pure horsepower for dollars, Infiniti has the edge in this class.

Not far behind in bang for the buck is Lexus' IS 350 Sport, also rear-wheel drive, listing for $36,420, and packing 306 hp.

Note also if you're not in a hurry to buy your near-luxury sedan that redesigned versions of the both the C-Class and Cadillac CTS are about to arrive. And note also that a new Accord due in the fall suggests that an all-new TL can't be far behind.

Acura's bestselling model, the TL, is not to be confused with the smaller and less expensive TSX, a sedan that shares basics with a smaller version of the Accord sold in Europe and Japan.

The handsome interior has a look that's all business, with a richly textured dashboard and door paneling, accented by carbon fiber and a dash of chrome trim and stainless steel pedals.

Luxury car shoppers also considering models like the C-Class, CTS and Lincoln MKZ might deem the TL a bit too understated, but those whose tastes lean toward BMW and Audi interiors probably will find the S-Type's to their liking.

The TL has a very good, though not perfect, safety rating from the federal government: five out of a possible five stars for frontal impact protection and five out of five for a rear-seat passenger's side impact protection, but four out of five stars for the driver's side-impact protection.

The tougher Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the car ``good' in frontal and side protection, based on its crash tests, but last week rated the TL (and a bunch of others) ``marginal' in the protection offered by its seats and head restraints in rear collisions.

Like Hondas, Acuras tend to score highly in owner surveys by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates that measure vehicle quality, while Acura dealers tend to do well in surveys of overall customer satisfaction with the sales and servicing process.

And Acura backs its cars with a better-than-average warranty of four years/50,000 miles, with an extra two years or 20,000 miles on the powertrain.

2007 Honda Civic CR-V EX-L

Head-turning quotient:
The Hyundai Santa Fe is borderline ugly. The Honda CR-V is strikingly handsome. If looks count for something, the CR-V is worth the extra money.

Body style/layout:
The Honda CR-V is a front-engine, compact wagon/crossover utility vehicle designed primarily for driving on paved and other improved roads. People who want a genuine SUV capable of driving in the rough should shop elsewhere. The CR-V has four doors and a rear lift-gate. It is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. There are three trim levels--base LX, mid EX, and upscale EX-L.

Engine/transmission:
All Honda CR-V models come with a standard 2.4-liter, 16-valve, in-line, four-cylinder engine that develops 166 horsepower at 5,800 revolutions per minute and 161 foot-pounds of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine is linked to a five-speed automatic transmission.

Capacities:
There is seating for five in the CR-V. Cargo capacity with the rear seats up is 35.7 cubic feet; with rear seats folded, it's 73 cubic feet. Maximum payload, the weight of what can be safely carried onboard, is 1,127 pounds. The front-wheel-drive CR-V can be equipped to tow a trailer weighing 1,500 pounds. The fuel tank holds 15.3 gallons of recommended regular unleaded gasoline.

Safety:
Standard equipment includes side air bags for front-seat occupants, side curtain air bags with rollover sensor, antilock braking system, electronic stability control, traction control, and rigid body construction.

Price:
Base price of the 2007 Honda CR-V EX-L with front-wheel drive and onboard navigation with voice recognition and rearview camera is $26,800. Dealer's invoice price on that model is $24,914. Price as tested is $27,935, including a destination charge of $595. Dealer's price as tested is $25,509. Prices sourced from Honda and www.edmunds.com.

Purse-strings note:
The Honda CR-V is an excellent wagon/crossover utility vehicle surrounded by very tough competition, including the Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Pontiac Torrent, Toyota RAV-4 and Saturn Vue. You'd be wise to invest some time in comparison shopping.

Complaints:
The CR-V is an excellent wagon. But Honda needs to reconsider its pricing strategy for this model line. The reason is Hyundai. For example, the comparable front-wheel-drive Hyundai Santa Fe Limited has seating for seven and comes with a 242-horsepower V-6 engine, standard electronic stability control and a base price of $26,145. The front-wheel-drive CR-V EX-L has a smaller engine, seating for five people, and a base price of $26,800. The CR-V is smart. But considering its substantially lower price and substantially better warranty, the Hyundai Santa Fe seems smarter.
Ride, acceleration and handling: The CR-V is excellent in all three categories on the highway and in the city. It moves in and out of traffic easily, safely. It is wonderfully maneuverable on heavily traveled city streets. It inspires confident driving in any environment.

Lincoln MKZ 2007

The Lincoln MKZ is a mid-size luxury car from the Lincoln automobile division of the Ford Motor Company. The MKZ is the replacement for the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr. Lincoln revived the Zephyr name in the fall of 2005 as a platform mate to the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, to replace the cancelled 3.0L V6 version of the Lincoln LS as the mid-size entry-level Lincoln. Lincoln increased the Zephyr's engine size and power output, and changed the car's name to MKZ in 2006 for the 2007 model year. Sales of the MKZ began in September, 2006. The MKZ is also the first Lincoln to use "MK" on its car name.

The Lincoln MKZ's available THX II audio system features 600 watts of power and 14 speakers, including two subwoofers. It's a $995 option.

2007 Lincoln MKZ

Type:
A front-wheel drive five passenger sedan. All-wheel drive is available.

Retail price*:
$29,950 - $37,790

Engine:
3.5-liter V-6
263-hp
249-lbs-ft torque

Transmission:
Six-speed automatic

EPA mileage
# Front-wheel drive: 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
# All-wheel drive: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway

Performance:
Good New engine boosts power, and engineers tuned it for a very smooth, quiet ride.

Exterior:
Good Subdued and well crafted.

Interior:
Excellent:
Lots of nice amenities. Comfortable seats and easy-to-use controls keep the driver's eyes on the road.

Safety:
Excellent Standard side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, anti lock brakes and electronic stability control and additional front passenger thorax airbags.
Pros: A luxurious sedan with excellent amenities and a smooth, quiet ride. Priced well against competitors.

Cons:
Engine tuning and lack of clutch-less shifting limit driving options.

Notes:
Drop the all-wheel drive and take one for a spin.

2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano

The new 599 GTB Fiorano is heir to Ferrari's glorious tradition of front-engine V12 dueposti, except that there was nearly a 20-year gap between the 365 GTB4, the Daytona and the recently departed 550/575M Maranello (1996-2005).

The 599 GTB Fiorano accelerates quicker (Road and Track reported a 0-60 mph of just 3.2 seconds and a quarter-mile estimated time of 11.2 seconds), corners harder and shreds the matrix of space-time faster than the F40. The 599's top speed is more than 205 mph, and it manages to stay ground-bound even without the F40's preposterous rear wing providing down force.

Powered by an Enzo-derived 6.0-liter 12-banger channeling a ferocious 612 hp through the new F1-Superfast gearbox (which cracks off gear changes in as little as 100 milliseconds), set up on a new semi-active suspension and with all manner of next-generation traction and stability systems managing the tiller of Newton's laws, the 599 feels like the ultimate man-macadam interface: a big, comfortable, gorgeous, richly appointed sports car with the soul of a racing machine.

The aluminum space frame has a chassis stiffness that's an almost inconceivable 50 percent higher than that of the foundry-cast 575M. All that substance comes at a cost, of course: This two-door weighs in at 3,722 pounds (roughly 600 pounds heavier than a Corvette Z06). And yet compared with the 599, ordinary cars of that weight division feel like sagging, over-full diapers.

Fully 85 percent of the car's weight is situated between the axles (as compared with 70 percent for the 575M). That gives this front-engine GT the low polar inertia of a mid-engine car, and yet there's still space for a surprisingly roomy trunk. The weight balance, meanwhile, is an optimal 47/53, front-to-rear.

Tarmac-warping Pirelli tires, which are, incidentally, staggered: 245/40/ZR19s in front and 305/35/ZR20s in the rear.

New electric dampers that monitor the road, speed and steering and adjust in a mere 40 milliseconds, using a system called SCM Magnetorheological Suspension. These babies employ a special fluid that changes viscosity depending on the electrical charge the computers impart to it. This semi-active system helps the tires maintain an instantaneous grip while cornering even over broken pavement, nulls out body lean and can go from velvety soft to harder than dragon scales with a flick of a knob.

An adjustable dynamics system that allows drivers to incrementally increase the ride stiffness, redline and gear-change speed, as well as raise the intervention thresholds of the traction and stability controls. The adventurous can turn them off altogether. New is the race-derived F1-Trac, which might be described as traction control with a Ph.D. in computer science. On the company's Fiorano test track -- where the name comes from -- a 599 with F1-Trac lapped an amazing 1.5 seconds faster than one with conventional traction control.

The new F1-Superfast gearbox, which adjusts shifting crispness -- the degree to which the car whacks you between the shoulder blades -- exactly to how hard you're driving.

A singular bit of aero styling is the 599's wraparound rear, close bracketed by flying buttresses (shades of Pegaso and Bertone's BAT cars). The 599 generates significant downforce (352 pounds at 186 mph). It is also practically immune to crosswinds.

Gonzo fast, awesomely cool, harder than Simon Cowell's heart yet with a deep sense of owner preservation, the 599 reminds me that I don't want much in a car, as long as I can have everything. And here it is, the world's best front-engine sports car.

Ferrari 599 GTB

Base price:
$260,000 (est.)

Powertrain:
6.0-liter DOHC V12
48 valve, with variable valve timing and variable intake geometry
six-speed automated gearbox
rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential

Horsepower:
612 at 7,600 rpm

Torque:
448 pound-feet at 5,600 rpm

Max engine speed:
8,400 rpm

Curb weight:
3,722 pounds

0-60 mph:
3.2 seconds

Wheelbase:
108.3 inches

Overall length:
183.7 inches

EPA fuel economy:
12 miles per gallon city, 15 mpg highway
*Figure from Road and Track

2007 Hyundai Veracruz

2007 Hyundai Veracruz
Type:
A front-wheel drive large crossover SUV.

Models:
GLS, SE, Limited

Retail price:
$26,995 - $38,000

Engine:
3.8-liter multi-point fuel injection,
6-cylinder,
260-horsepower,
257-pound-feet torque.

Transmission:
6-speed automatic,
includes clutchless shifting
EPA mileage: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
Estimated 12-month insurance costs, according to AAA Michigan: $687
*Includes shipping

Performance :
Sluggish acceleration and soft handling sap the fun out of driving.

Exterior:
A clone of the Lexus RX 350 does not stand out in a diverse and growing selection of vehicles in the crossover market.

Interior:
Offers lots of amenities and creature comforts.

Safety:
Standard side curtain airbags for all three rows,
anti lock brakes,
electronic stability control and electronic roll over mitigation.

The Veracruz fails to close the luxury gap in the crossover market in the same way the 2006 Azera did in the sedan sector. That car feels luxurious at a modest price. The Veracruz is just a photocopy of a photocopy.

It's a heavily loaded knockoff that doesn't hold its own against similarly priced crossovers such as the Honda Pilot, the Toyota Highlander and the Saturn Outlook. Those are the real competitors, not the Lexus RX 350.

Shelby CSX

The Shelby CSX was a limited-production performance automobile based on the Dodge Shadow. Offered by Shelby from 1987 through 1989, the Shelby CSX was the most common Shelby vehicle of the 1980s.


CSX

The first Shelby CSX appeared in 1987. Power came from Shelby's Turbo II 2.2 L I4, with 175 hp (130 kW) and 175 ft.lbf (237 Nm). Performance was good with a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.0 s.

Shock absorbers and springs were replaced, and Daytona Shelby Z rear discs were added. Once again, Shelby used his own wheels. Outside badging was more restrained than other Shelby offerings.

750 1987 CSXes were sold, priced at $13,495. There was no optional equipment.


CSX-T

In 1966, Shelby created a special line of Shelby Mustangs for the Hertz car rental company. Shelby repeated this trick in 1988 with the creation of the CSX-T for the Thrifty rental company. The CSX-T was only sold to Thrifty, and 1,001 were produced.

The CSX-T was mechanically similar to the 1987 CSX with one major exception: The non-intercooled Turbo I engine was used. Two variations were made, an intercooled version given to the president of Thrifty and a version with a factory sunroof given to the president's daughter.


CSX-VNT

The final CSX was 1989's CSX-VNT. This would be the last Shelby Dodge, and marked two notable technological advances: the introduction of a variable-nozzle turbo and the application of composite wheels.

The engine was the new Turbo IV. The variable vanes were computer controlled and needed no wastegate. Instead, they adjusted the flow of exhaust gasses to spool up quickly and provide strong power. Power remained at 175 hp (130 kW), but torque was up to 205 ft.lbf (278 Nm). Car and Driver magazine was impressed with the engine's flexibility and top-gear acceleration.

The composite Fiberide wheels were also a first. Made of reinforced fiberglass, they were lighter than contemporary wheels.

Production was limited to 500 vehicles (including two prototypes) and Carroll Shelby's involvement with Dodge was over.

Volvo 780

The Volvo 780 coupé made its debut at the International Auto Show in Geneva, Switzerland in 1985. It marked the return of a two-door 2+2 seater coupe to the Volvo stable after a four-year absence following the departure of the 262C in 1981. The 780 became available in Europe in 1986, and would come to the United States a year later.

Like its predecessor, the 780 was designed and built by Carrozzeria Bertone in Turin, Italy. However, unlike the Volvo 262C, the 780 was not merely a two-door 760 with a "chop top" roof. Bertone gave the 780 its own distinctive shape which set it apart from the other models, yet was still identifiable as a Volvo. The car had a sleek, low profile, inheriting some of the styling of the other 700 series cars, but without many of the severe angles and sharp corners. The hood, trunk, and roof lines were all slightly lower than the standard 700 series profile, and the C-pillar was wider and had a more gradual slope down to the trunk. Headroom was improved over the 262C, due to Bertone’s mere 1 cm lowering of the roofline. Window frames all had black matte trim, and were accented with chrome. Chrome also highlighted the door handles, bumpers, and side mouldings.

In the first two years the 780 was available worldwide ('86 and '87) the 780 was available with the B280F V6 engine and a solid (live) rear axle. In the following year, they came equipped with Volvo's independent rear suspension, which used self-leveling Nivomat shocks, to keep ride height correct.

Many people began to take note of the relatively weak powerplant that the 780 had. The B280F at this point had roughly 150HP, but the car itself was nearly 3400 pounds. People wanted something better performing. Enter the B230FT+; a B230FT with Volvo's boost controller, Turbo+, increasing the engine output to 175hp. The following model year saw it increase to 188hp. In the car's finale year, 1991, it was rebadged simply as "Coupé". At this point, the car came only in turbo guise.

Volvo's official production total for the 780 is 8,518 cars built between 1985 and 1990. However, this number has often been disputed as different sources have often estimated the actual total to be higher. As before, a coupé would remain absent from Volvo's model line for several years, until the front-wheel drive C70 was premiered in 1995 for the following model year.

2007 Dodge Charge SRT8 review

2007 Dodge Charge SRT8

With a 425-horsepower Hemi V8, the SRT8 can hit 60 mph in about 5 seconds, but the fun's just getting started at 60. Muscle cars are known for their excess reserves of power.

The swift sedan covers the quarter-mile in under 14 seconds and needs only 110 feet to come to a complete stop from 60 mph. Examine the huge disc brakes visible behind the 20-inch alloy spoked wheels and you'll understand.

And here's a nice little test to illustrate the SRT8's capabilities: Going from 0 to 100 mph and back to 0 takes less than 17 seconds.

The SRT8, the most powerful version of the Charger that was reborn in 2006, is not intended as a high-volume model. It's really a showpiece that makes a great exemplar of power on the NASCAR circuit.

Enthusiasts will be instinctively drawn to the SRT8, and 70 percent of buyers will be men in an age range of 40 to 59 years, according to Dodge demographic studies. Buyers will have household incomes of $80,000 to $100,000 and 45 percent will have college degrees while 65 percent will have a spouse. The owners will come from a variety of professions and trades.

"The Dodge Charger's overall design suggests speed and performance, attributes that are accentuated in the Dodge Charger SRT8," said Trevor Creed, senior vice president for design at the Chrysler Group. "SRT touches such as the front air dam, hood scoop and rear spoiler are not only visual hallmarks of a true muscle car, they're also functional performance enhancements."

The front fascia has ducts that help direct fresh air to cool the brakes, and an air dam to reduce lift. A hood scoop funnels cool air into the engine compartment. The rear fascia directs air flow and frames dual 3.5-inch exhaust tips.

Sculpted seats with suede inserts are designed to hold the driver and passengers in place in dramatic maneuvers. The shoulder bolsters felt somewhat intrusive at times, however. All seats have contrasting red stitching.

The instrument panel features a 180-mph speedometer, a tachometer and a temperature gauge. A light-emitting-diode display in the gauge cluster can be set for oil temperature, oil pressure and tire pressure readouts.

The pedals can be extended to accommodate drivers of varying heights and the steering column is manually adjustable. The SRT8 comes with eight-way power driver's seat and collapsible heated side mirrors.

With the longest wheelbase in its class -- 120 inches -- the Charger's chassis creates a fairly roomy cabin.

The front-engine/rear-drive configuration allows a 50-50 weight distribution ratio, but rear-drive carries some handling handicaps in ice-bound climes.

While big 17-inch tires are standard on the SE and SXT trim levels, the R/T version sits on even larger 18-inchers mounted on polished aluminum wheels. The SRT8 trumps all the lesser models with 20-inch wheels.



TYPE:
Rear-drive, four-door, five-passenger full-size sedan.

PRICE:
$35,920 base

POWER:
6.1-liter
425-horsepower
SRT Hemi V8
Autostick automatic transmission.

FUEL ECONOMY:
14 city
20 highway mpg
gas-guzzler tax $2,100
estimated annual fuel cost $2,672.

CHASSIS:
Unitized steel body
independent suspension with short/long-arm front and coil springs
five-link rear
gas-charged shocks
front/rear stabilizer bars
power rack-and-pinion steering
power disc brakes with ABS
20-inch polished aluminum wheels.

LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT:
200.1 x 74.5 x 58.2 inches.

WHEELBASE X TRACK:
120 x 63 inches.

CURB WEIGHT:
4,031 pounds.

STANDARD:
Power-adjustable pedals
power heated foldaway side mirrors
60/40 split folding rear seats
eight-way power adjustable driver's seat
fog lamps; six-speaker
276-watt Boston Acoustics sound system with AM/FM/CD stereo
air conditioning
power accessories
tilt-telescoping steering wheel
remote keyless entry
cruise control.

OPTIONS:
SRT Option Group I includes air filtering
automatic headlamps
air conditioning with dual-zone control
heated front seats
power windows ($675)
TorRed paint ($225)
SRT Option Group II includes 11 Kicker SRT high-performance speakers
security alarm ($845)
SRT Option Group III includes navigation system
six-disc CD changer
auto-dimming rearview mirror
hands-free communication ($2,355)
supplemental side air bags ($390)
power sunroof ($950)
rear-seat video system ($1,150).

2008 Jeep Liberty

Despite the crisis that Chrysler maker of quality Jeep multi rib belt is facing it has been able to come up with best-selling models such as the Jeep Liberty. The Jeep Liberty is one of those Chrysler’s creations that have remained a leader in the mid-size sport utility SUV market since its initial introduction in the year 2002. The Jeep Liberty as its name suggest provides off-road enthusiasts and car owners with the liberty or freedom as well as capability that only Jeep can provide.

The Jeep Liberty from the ground up exudes its true legendary 4x4 heritage by providing two Jeep Trail Rate four-wheel-drive systems-Command-Trac and the all-new Selec-Trac II. The Liberty’s on-road ride and handling have also been improved and refined with the new independent front suspension, new five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

The exterior of the Liberty has been redesigned to give it a more rugged, classic Jeep look that will surely captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners as well as those other Jeep fanatics. Inside the Liberty is a cargo and storage space that has been made even more spacious. The seats were also made even more comfortable. The new Sky Slider full-open canvas roof which is an industry-exclusive will make its debut as part of the Jeep Liberty.

The Liberty also features remote start, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle’s ever growing list of options. There are two models of the Liberty being offered—the Jeep Liberty Sport and the Jeep Liberty Limited.

The new Jeep Liberty is designed for those who do not only want the Jeep 4x4 capability but are also looking for comfort and convenience. The Liberty is also ideal for young couples, families, professionals, single men and women who are between 30 and 40 years old. The new Liberty can help balance day-to-day activities and at the same time functions well when extreme outdoor performance is called for. Jeep Liberty is scheduled to hit dealerships beginning the third quarter of this year.


Jeep Liberty Features

The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty provides a balance of on-road refinement and off-road capability.
It has an independent front suspension,

a power rack-and-pinion steering system,

all new five link rear suspension,

two four-wheel-drive systems (all-new Selec-Trac II,

full time four wheel drive system and Command-Trac,

a part-time four wheel drive system—both are Jeep Trail Rated).

The liberty is powered by a 3.7 liter SOHC V6 engine that revs up 210 hp (157 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb-ft (319 Nm) of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Fuel economy has also been improved now reaching only 16 mpg for city driving and 22 mpg on highway.

There are also two transmissions offered for the Jeep Liberty in the United States and that is a six-speed manual transmission and a four speed automatic transmission. The 2008 Jeep Liberty was designed and engineered under the CDS or the Chrysler Development System which is a comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that boost quality and production while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new products.

In terms of safety and security features the 2008 Jeep Liberty is equipped with a full range of active and passive safety systems such as the Electronic Stability Program, Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation, advanced anti-lock brakes, All-speed Traction Control, tire pressure monitoring, rain sensing wipers, and side curtain air bags.

The 2008 Jeep Liberty will also feature the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System and SIRIUS Satellite Radio which provides customers throughout the US with 130 channels, including 100 percent commercial-free music, news, sports, entertainment, talk, traffic, and weather. The 2008 Jeep Liberty will also have the UConnect hands-free communication system that uses Bluetooth Technology which enables wireless communication between the car owner’s mobile phone and the vehicle’s on-board receiver.

Suzuki SX4 (2007)

The 2007 Suzuki SX4 AWD is a small hatchback station wagon designed for urban commuting. But we also drove it long distances on the highway, where its performance was competent, but less than thrilling.

At urban street speeds of 25 to 40 mph, it's zippy. It easily moves through city traffic. It is agile enough to stay out of the way of big delivery and construction trucks, even when the drivers of those behemoths seem intent on blocking the SX4's path and squishing it and everything else in its subcompact category.

As a result, city driving in the SX4 is enjoyable. At a base price of $14,999, the car is cheap enough to free you of the anxiety associated with driving high-end automobiles in downtown areas. Many of you know the feeling: "Stay away from my Lexus! You're too close to my Mercedes-Benz! If you scratch my Cadillac, if you bump my BMW, you're gonna pay."

In comparison, driving the SX4 is akin to strolling a boulevard sidewalk in a favorite pair of sneakers. They feel good, look good. You wouldn't deliberately scuff or muddy them. But you wouldn't have a heart attack if you did.

Exterior design is cute, attractive enough to draw affectionate smiles. The interior is simple, yet elegant. And it's big enough -- as Ria so amply demonstrated with nuclear and extended family members--to comfortably seat five people.

The excess fat is in the SX4's three-way all-wheel-drive system, which can be locked into full four-wheel-drive for better traction, adjusted for automatic wheel-to-wheel power shifts in all-wheel-drive, or allowed to operate in front-wheel-drive only. Choice is wonderful. But so much choice in a small economy car is unwarranted and harmful to something that really matters in this league--fuel economy.

the SX4 remains a worthy competitor in this segment. It is loaded with standard equipment--four-wheel disc brakes with antilock protection, side air bags, front and rear head air bags, power windows and locks, a four-speaker MP3 audio system, and a transferable 100,000-mile or seven-year warranty to help support resale value. It is well-built and affordable. For many city dwellers, especially those living on tight budgets, it's a good deal.

2007 Saturn Outlook

The Saturn Outlook is a premium mid-size crossover SUV which debuted at the New York International Auto Show. The Outlook is based on the new GM Lambda platform, which it shares with the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave. The Outlook features the lowest sticker price among GM's Lambda crossover SUVs.
The family friendly Saturn Outlook can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Type:
A front-wheel drive large crossover SUV. All-wheel drive available.

Models:
EX, XR

Retail price*:
$27,990 (FWD, XE)
$32,290 (AWD, XR)
$44,000 (fully loaded AWD, XR)

Engines:
# 3.6 DOHC V-6 with single exhaust, 270-hp, 248-lb-ft torque.
# 3.6-liter DOHC V-6 with dual exhaust, 275-hp, 251-lb-ft torque.

Transmission:
6-speed automatic

EPA mileage:
# Single exhaust: 18 mpg/26 mpg
# Dual exhaust: 17 mpg / 25 mpg

Notes:
The $495 captain chair option offers the most comfortable ride for those in the back but limits seating to seven.


Performance:
Decent power and good handling. Easier to maneuver than size suggests.

Exterior:
Strong lines make the Outlook distinctive and easily recognizable.

Interior:
Much larger inside. Comfortable and versatile.

Safety:
Standard front and side curtain airbags, antilock brakes. Backup camera.

The Smart Slide provides easy entry.
Image

The second row bench seat includes a 60/40 split.

2008 Chrysler Sebring convertible

The Sebring's cabin offers a number of amenities and easy-to-use controls.

Type:
A front-wheel drive, four-passenger convertible coupe.

Models:
Convertible, Touring and Limited
Retail price*:
$26,145 -- $38,675

Engines
# 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder, 173-hp, 166-lb-ft torque
# 2.7-liter, V-6, 189-hp, 191-lb-ft
# 3.5-liter, V-6, 235-hp, 232-lb-ft

Transmission:
4-speed on 2.4-liter and 2.7-liter engines, 6-speed automatic with clutch-less shifting on 3.5-liter.

EPA mileage
# 2.4-liter: 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
# 2.7-liter: 18 mpg / 26 mpg
# 3.5-liter: 16 mpg / 26 mpg

Notes: Chrysler offers three types of convertible tops. A vinyl top comes standard on the Convertible and Touring models. A cloth top is available in the Touring model as part of an optional $1,495 package. A hard top is available for $2,170. The Limited, which has a standard cloth top, can upgrade to the hard top for $1,995.
*Includes shipping

Performance :
Smooth and quiet ride with the top up. Handles well in the city and on the highway but the 2.4-liter engine leaves it underpowered and the 4-speed transmission on two models is outdated.

Exterior:
Long lines and standard 17-inch tires give this convertible a substantial look. The Sebring stands out.

Interior:
Well-appointed interior. Seats are comfortable and give the driver a commanding view of the road. Back seat still crowded. My Gig stereo system is a bonus; can burn CDs and provides a premium stereo.

Safety:
Excellent: Sebring offers more than 30 standard safety and security features, including electronic stability control and rollover mitigation.

Toyota MR2

After having been in the market for almost ten years, the SW20 had to move aside as Toyota released the new MR2, designated ZZW30. The new MR2 was, in a way, a return to the design concept of the AW11 since the weight of the car was once again dropped below a metric ton and it was significantly smaller than the SW20. The biggest change was, however, the replacement of the solid, T-Top, and sunroof roof options with a true convertible soft top, giving the car the 'Spyder' designation. Due to a new car design rule from SAE (The Society of Automotive Engineers), the pop-up headlights as seen on SW20 had to be removed.

Many claim that this car was inspired by Porsche Boxster which was released in 1996, due to its similar appearance. However, the first prototype of MR-S appeared in 1997 at Tokyo Motorshow, which had slightly more angled and rigid appearance than the current production model. The production model includes additional curves for more aerodynamic look and more appealing. The MR2 Spyder chief engineer Harunori Shiratori once said "First, we wanted true driver enjoyment, blending good movement, low inertia and light weight. Then, a long wheelbase to achieve high stability and fresh new styling; a mid-engine design to create excellent handling and steering without the weight of the engine up front; a body structure as simple as possible to allow for easy customizing, and low cost to the consumer."

In Japan, the car is called the MR-S, which purportedly is derived from the forementioned designation. Toyota changed the American name to "MR2 Spyder" reportedly because the idea of a car with the nickname of "Mrs." would sound funny. In spite of this effort, the car is referred to as the "Mrs. 2" by some enthusiasts. The 1999 MR2 Spyder was an element of Toyota Project Genesis, a failed effort to bring younger buyers to the marque in the United States.

The engine of the ZZW30 was the brand-new all-aluminium 1ZZ-FED, a 1794 cc I4. Like its predecessors, the engine used dual overhead camshafts and 16 valves. The intake camshaft's timing was adjustable via the VVT-i system, which was introduced earlier on the 1998 SW20. Unlike its predecessors, however, the engine was placed onto the car the other way round, making the exhaust manifold point towards the rear of the car. The 138 hp (104 kW) maximum power was quite a drop from the SW20 GT, but thanks to the lightness of the car it could move quite quickly, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.0 to 8.3 s depending on the transmission option, the Sequential Manual being unable to launch and shift as quickly as the clutch operated manual. The car only weighs 975kg(2150lbs) with the 5 speed manual or 997kg(2200lbs) with the SMT, making this model MR2 the lightest of the MR2 series. In addition to the 5-speed manual transmission, a 5-Speed or 6 speed Sequential Manual Transmission (SMT) controllable from 2 pairs of buttons on the steering wheel was also available. SMT is standard feature in Australian market, however air conditioning was optional. After 2003, a 6-speed SMT was an option.

The feedback for the new model was somewhat mixed - others liked its return to the AW11's design concept, while the fans of the SW20 would've liked it to continue along the path of the previous model. All agreed, however, that the ZZW30 had nearly perfect handling, allowing one to brake into corners and throw the car through the corner in slight drift. The ZZW30 is considered to be the best-handling MR2. For example, Tiff Needell, a very experienced race driver and the former host of the BBC TV show Top Gear, praised the handling of the ZZW30. Although some complained of the relative lack of power the vehicle had, many owners have recently discovered a way to switch out the 1ZZ-FE engine in exchange for the 2ZZ-GE, bringing up the power to 164 hp(SAE Certified) or 180 hp as originally measured by Toyota under the old SAE Net rating. This drastically brings up the accelerating properties of the ZZW30. During a comparison test during a Japanese motorsports show, "NA vs. Turbo", the Techno Spirits ZZW30, outdrove several more powerful cars. However, the driver of the ZZW30, Manabu Orido, allowed the other vehicles (a much higher powered S15 Silvia, S14 Silvia, and Amuse S2000) to catch up (in an effort to demonstrate the difference between NA and turbo) and ended in the ZZW30 losing to the higher powered S15 Silvia. Although it lost, the ZZW30 proved the top-class handling abilities of the ZZW30. On race tracks, a stock ZZW30 has a superior handling around the corners but lacks power in the straights.

Techno Pro Spirit's MR-S was also the first car to be able to beat Tsuchiya's champion AE86 in its own grounds, the touge.

Another effective and typical modification to the MR-S is the addition of a turbocharger. Many companies such as Power Enterprise, Top Secret, Tom's, TTE, Monkeywrench Racing and Hass supply simple bolt-on kits for the MR-S. This simple addon can easily bring the car to 200bhp+, at only a low boost of 4-5psi. In a video by BMI, Tom's Turbo MR-S came only a split second behind the Techno 2zz MR-S at the touge. However, there is no doubt that the MR-S in turbo guise would easily outrun the 2zz MR-S in the straights.

In the JGTC/SuperGT GT300 class, Reckless's MR-S driven by Kota Sasaki & Tetsuya Yamano is the current 2005 champion. Previously in 2002 Morio Nitta & Shinichi Takagis' ARTA Toyota MR-S also won the GT300.

The MR-S was originally introduced in October of 1999 to the consumer market and received a sequential transmission in August 2000. For 2003, the ZZW30 received some exterior changes, including a new front bumper, front and rear lights, a new rear grille, and the computer also received an upgrade allowing the gears to change and engage much quicker than the pre-2003 models which were equipped with the sequential manual transmission. The air intakes on the sides of the car were now color coded and the interior was modified with new seats and a gauge cluster. The rear wheels were increased to 16" with larger 215 mm tires, while the front ones remained at 15" and 185 mm tread width. The suspension was uprated with new springs and shock absorbers and a brace was added to the bottom of the car to improve rigidity. A limited-slip differential was also available from the factory. For 2004, the body was strengthened, adding 10 kg to the vehicle's weight.

In July 2004, Toyota announced that the MR2 (as well as the Celica) would be discontinued in the US at the end of the 2005 model year because of increasing competition and lack of sales. [5] The ZZW30 sold 7,233 units in its debut year, falling to just 121 for the 2005 model, for a total of 23,868 through its six years of production in the US. However, it is still sold in Mexico, Europe and Japan. The 2006 model year is the last for the MR2, with the United Kingdom getting 300 final models in a special numbered TF300 series. A special 182 bhp turbocharged variant called the TTE Turbo (TTE standing for Toyota Team Europe) is available as a dealer installed package. This package is also available for fitting to older Mk. III MR2s.


MR-S V Edition

While the MR2 Spyder was not sold after 2005 in the United States, it will continue to be offered in Japan and the United Kingdom until early 2007. As a farewell to the MR2, Toyota is producing 1000 limited-edition "V Edition" MR-S cars for those respective markets. They are distinguished by different wheels, titanium interior accents, certain slightly modified body panels, a helical limited slip, and different steering wheel trim.

Volkswagen Lupo

The Volkswagen Lupo was a city car manufactured by German automaker Volkswagen from 1998 to 2005.

It was introduced in 1998 to fill a gap at the bottom of the VW model range caused by the increasing size and weight of the VW Polo. Rivals included the Ford Ka, the Opel Agila and the Fiat Panda. The SEAT Arosa was a badge-engineered version of the Lupo.

The car was available with a variety of engine sizes and trim levels, from budget models through to the GTI variant. The 6-speed Lupo GTI has been labelled a true successor to the VW Golf Mk.1, the first true hot hatch.

Various special-edition and test models have set records in fuel economy. The lightweight nature of the car and advanced 3-cylinder diesel engine have resulted in a production model (the Lupo 3L) that can consume as little as 3 litres per 100 kilometres (78 miles per US gallon or 94 miles per Imperial gallon). It was rumoured that it was this model that encouraged Renault to produced the Clio V6, since they assumed 3L stood for a 3-litre engine[citation needed].

Production of the Lupo ceased in 2005. It has been replaced by the VW Fox.

Awards

2001 Fleet News Award - Best Micro Car

1999 Auto Express New Car Honours - Best Small Car

1999 International Engine of the Year Award - Best Fuel Economy


Production
1998-2005

Successor
Volkswagen Fox

Class
City car

Engine
1.0 L I4 (Petrol)
1.4 L I4 (Petrol)
1.6 L I4 (Petrol)
1.2 L TDI PD I3 (Diesel)
1.7 L I4 (Diesel)

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible in Detail

DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group division is expanding their product lineup of Chrysler Sebring models by adding up an all-new convertible variant. Chrysler Group boasts the numerous innovative technological features aboard the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible, from the simplest up to the most sophisticated innovative systems.

George Murphy, Senior Vice President-Global Marketing, Chrysler Group sad:
"America's favorite convertible is now better than ever. The all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the unprecedented combination of unmistakable road presence, athletic handling, innovative technologies, as well as plenty of room for people and gear. In fact, the all-new Sebring Convertible is the only retractable hard top in the segment that can pass the two-golf-bag test. The sky's the limit on what this vehicle can accomplish in the marketplace."

Outside, the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible features a sporty and distinctive exterior styling highlighted by Chrysler's signature eggcrate grille, uniquely sculptured hood with elegant lines, large quad headlamps, wide tail lamps mounted on the corners and deck lid, rear fog lamps, and chrome tipped dual exhaust pipes.

According to a Chrysler Group official press release, some of the unique and innovative standard features found on the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible include a trunk spacious enough to hold two golf bags when the convertible top is down; power hard tonneau cover that neatly conceals each of the three convertible tops when retracted; seat belts integrated into the front and rear seats, which looks clean, enhances seat comfort and makes it easier for passengers to get into the back seat; a locking glove box that can secure important documents and small items; no manual convertible top latches, as Sebring's new convertible top system automatically latches; and YES Essentials stain-resistant, odor resistant, anti-static seat fabric.

In addition, the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible also offers available innovative features like remote convertible top operation on the key fob, remote start that allows drivers to start and warm up or cool down their convertible from a distance, factory-installed windscreen that reduces wind and road noise, and a heated or cooled cup holder that keeps warm beverages warm and cold beverages cool.

For the U.S. market, Chrysler Group offers three power plants: the standard 2.4-liter World Engine, the available 2.7-liter V6 engine with Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) capability, and the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine. These engines are combined with either a 4- or 6-speed automatic gearbox, and equipped with a thermostat similar to VW thermostat found on the VW Eos Convertible.

Ford F250 Superduty 2008

The F-250 Super Duty Crew Cab FX4 is a four-wheel-drive workhorse. It hauls manure as opposed to producing it in word-processing machines. That is an important distinction in assessing its value and place in a political environment marked by concerns about fuel efficiency and global warming. On Capitol Hill, honorable lawmakers and their staffs, many of whom have never hauled anything except lobbyists' reports, or built anything except political constituencies, are apt to look at the big Ford truck and say: "Aha, see! That is why we need higher fuel economy standards."

Complaints:
It has a ground clearance of nearly eight inches, presenting ingress-egress difficulties for short people. An optional swing-out step is available.
Ride, acceleration and handling: It's a big pickup truck that rides and handles like a big pickup truck--hard and sometimes bouncy. Handling is good in straight-line highway running, competent in wide curves, less pleasing in tight curves, and ponderous to clumsy in city traffic. It is a truck designed to push, haul and tow, which is why it has lots of torque, especially at lower engine revolutions per minute. That means it's no speedster.
Head-turning quotient: It drew smiles and praise in West Virginia. It brought curses and sneers in Washington and its suburbs.

Body style/layouts:
Ford's Super Duty trucks are full-size, body-on-frame pickups available with rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. There are three cab styles--regular (two side doors), Super Cab (two full front side doors and two half doors for rear-cabin access), and the tested Crew Cab (four full side doors). There are two bed lengths--6.75 feet and eight feet. And there are three towing-hauling ranges--F-250, heavy; F-350, heavier; F-450, heaviest.

Engines/transmissions:
Three engines are available for the F-250, including Ford's base 5.4-liter, 300-horsepower, gasoline Triton V-8; a 6.8-liter, 362-horsepower, gasoline Triton V-10; and the tested 6.4-liter, Power Stroke diesel V-8 that develops 350 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and 650 foot-pounds of torque at 2,000 rpm. In the tested vehicle, the diesel engine was linked to a five-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual is available.
Capacities: With bench seats front and rear, there is seating for six. Maximum payload is 3,170 pounds. Maximum towing capacity is 12,500 pounds. The fuel tank holds 38 gallons of required ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. Warning: Carefully read diesel pump labels before filling.

Mileage:
I averaged 22.5 miles per gallon in highway driving with one passenger, no cargo.
Safety: Four-wheel antilock brakes are standard. Side and head air bags were not available at this writing. Electronic traction control is available. Ford's Trailer Brake Controller, which synchronizes braking between the truck and trailer, is optional on the F-250 and is recommended by this column.

Price:
Base price is $35,880. Dealer's invoice price on the base model is $33,152. Price as tested is $54,825, including $18,010 in options (diesel engine, five-speed automatic transmission, navigation, Trailer Brake Controller, power sunroof, leather-covered captain's chairs, tailgate step, Sirius Satellite Radio) and a $925 destination charge. Dealer's price as tested is $49,027. Prices sourced from Ford and www.edmunds.com.

Purse-strings note:
Easy on the options. Regular cab versions are substantially less expensive. Rear-wheel drive beats four-wheel-drive in fuel economy.

Toyota Yaris 2007

2007 Toyota Yaris 3-door liftback

Base price:
$11,530

Powertrain:
1.5-liter, DOHC four-cylinder with variable valve timing; five-speed

transmission;
front-wheel drive

Horsepower:
106 at 6,000 rpm

Torque:
103 pound-feet at 4,200 rpm

Curb weight:
2,290 pounds

0-60 mph:
10 seconds

Wheelbase:
96.9 inches

Overall length:
150.6 inches

EPA fuel economy:
34 miles per gallon city, 40 mpg highway

Final thoughts:
A giant stubs its toe

Toyota Yaris, a surprisingly routine and summarily undelightful B-class subcompact that feels as mailed-in as if it had a stamp on it.

Cheap? Oh yes, to a fault. The $11,530 MSRP (with delivery) can't make room for things like a radio/CD/MP3, anti-lock brakes, rear-window wiper or rear fogger, or split-folding rear seat. Our test car had another $3,210 of options: alloy wheels, power windows and doors, four-speaker audio with CD/MP3 player, ABS, front side-air bags, side curtain air bags. But up against other recent B-class urban runabouts -- the Honda Fit, the Nissan Versa -- the Yaris is less car for more money. And tinny. Compared with the sealed and muffled character of the Honda Fit, this thing's got more ring-a-ding than Frank Sinatra at Caesars Palace.

handling, it has some. Actually, for a little car, the Yaris has some pretty acute body roll and lean. It reminds me of the old Jackie Stewart exercise in which he put a ball in a bowl affixed to the hood of a car to demonstrate the effects of smooth driving. Except in this case, the Yaris is the ball.

It's not all bad. The build quality is excellent. The interior (with plastic fixtures inspired by a Super Soaker) is modern and easy to use. The upholstery is nice. That's all I've got.

The irony is, of course, that Toyota made its bones in the U.S. market making cheap, superlative compacts. But the Yaris, after the Echo, suggests the company is losing its common touch.

BMW M1

The BMW M1 is a supercar produced by the German automaker BMW from 1978 to 1981. It was the first and only mid-engined BMW. It employed a twin-cam M88/1 3.5 L 6-cylinder gasoline engine, a version of which was later used in the E24 BMW M6/M635CSi and E28 BMW M5. The engine had six separate throttle butterflies, four valves per cylinder and produced 277 PS (204 kW) in the street version, giving a top speed of 260 km/h (162 mph). Turbocharged racing versions were capable of producing around 850 hp.

The M1 coupe was hand-built between 1978 and 1981 under the Motorsport division of BMW as a homologation special for sports car racing. The body was designed by Giugiaro, taking inspiration from the 1972 BMW Turbo show car. Originally, BMW commissioned Lamborghini to work out the details of the car's chassis, assemble prototypes and manufacture the vehicles, but Lamborghini's financial position meant that BMW reassumed control over the project in April 1978, after seven prototypes were built. Only 456 production M1s were built, making it one of BMW's rarest models. The spirit of the M1 lived on in the first-generation M5, as both models shared the same (though slightly modified) engines.

Though the car never saw a great deal of racing success, the M1 is remembered as a refined and civilized supercar in the true BMW tradition, with great handling and stellar build quality. In 2004, Sports Car International named the car number ten on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1970s.

Maserati Quattroporte

Vehicle Overview
Changes for Maserati's 2007 Quattroporte include suspension modifications intended to soften the car's ride, a stronger climate control system, stronger brakes and reduced emissions courtesy of an updated catalytic converter. Inside, the steering wheel and handbrake stitching no longer contrasts with the surrounding leather, and folding tables for backseat passengers are no longer available.

For the 2005 model year, Maserati introduced a full-size four-door luxury sedan called the Quattroporte. Designed by Pininfarina, the rear-wheel-drive Quattroporte competes against the Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

The Quattroporte has Brembo all-disc brakes and a Skyhook automatic-damping suspension. A V-8 engine works with Maserati's DuoSelect sequential transmission, which can be shifted using paddles mounted on the steering column. Maserati says the Quattroporte can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a swift 5.2 seconds. For optimum weight distribution, the engine sits aft of the front axle and drives a rear-mounted transmission.

Two versions of the Quattroporte arrived in late 2005: an Executive GT and a Sport GT. The Executive GT has polished 19-inch wheels and heated, ventilated and massaging rear seats. A wood and leather steering wheel also is installed.

The Sport GT features 20-inch wheels, carbon fiber trim, racing pedals, and a black grille and side air vents. Maserati's Skyhook suspension system has been modified for use in the Sport GT, and the car has a sport exhaust system.

Exterior
Recognizable Maserati styling cues include its long hood, prominent grille and headlights. Low-slung front fenders, short front overhangs, a swept-back profile, a high belt line and a steeply raked windshield also help establish what the company calls an "authoritative persona [and] predatory appearance."

A broad horizontal-bar grille contains Maserati's Trident badge. The headlights sit slightly back, and a wide air intake is installed below the grille. Three portholes adorn each front fender. Standard wheels measure 18 inches in diameter. Built on a relatively long 120.6-inch wheelbase, the Quattroporte is 198.9 inches long overall and 56.6 inches tall.

Interior
Five people can luxuriate inside the Quattroporte, where handcrafted leather complements the premium wood trim. Rosewood is standard, but buyers can specify mahogany, burl walnut, a titanium-style trim or piano black finish.

Standard features include power front and rear seats, a power rear sunshade and a cooled compartment in the front armrest. Touching a button in the center rear armrest moves the front passenger seat forward, supplying additional legroom. The Bosch-Blaupunkt Multi Media System includes a navigation system, Bose stereo and TV tuner.

Under the Hood
The Quattroporte's 4.2-liter V-8 engine generates close to 400 horsepower and 333 pounds-feet of torque. The six-speed sequential transmission can be shifted using paddles mounted on the steering column, but it also includes a fully automatic mode. A Low Grip mode is included for driving in poor weather.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags are standard.

Rear disc brakes are larger for 2007 — growing from 12.4 to 13 inches. Maserati says this reduces the Quattroporte's stopping distance from 62 mph by 5 percent.

Land Rover 2008 LR2

Type:
Five-door,
all-wheel drive luxury small SUV

Retail price:
$34,700 to $40,350

Engine:
3.2-liter inline six-cylinder, 230-hp; 234-pound-feet torque

Transmission:
Six-speed automatic, with clutchless shifting

EPA mileage:
16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway

Notes:
Hits showrooms in April.


Exterior:
Excellent. A distinctive, boxy Land Rover.

Interior:
Good. Luxurious and comfortable, even in the back. Only the cluttered center console kept the rating from being excellent.

Safety:
Excellent. Stability control and roll over control standard. Full set of front, side, and side curtain airbags are standard.

Performance:
Excellent. Performs well on the highway and trails. Engine is powerful and handling is crisp when taking tight mountain turns or making sandy donuts.

Notes:
The LR2 is an excellent vehicle and the price is very competitive when comparing it to other high-end compact SUVs such as the Acura MDX and BMW X3.

2007 Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 SE

Cute, bug-like. Impractical for egoists.

Engine/transmission:
The 2007 Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 SE comes with an 800 cubic centimeter, three-cylinder engine that develops 51 horsepower at 6,000 revolutions per minute and 53 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine is linked to a four-speed automatic transmission. A five-speed manual gearbox is available.

Body style/layout:
The Matiz, the second generation of a GM Daewoo platform, is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive economy car with four side doors and a rear hatch. It weighs 1,885 pounds.

Ride, acceleration, handling:
City ride, handling and acceleration are good, meaning that the little car holds its own in that driving environment. Lowland highway acceleration is competent, meaning that it can change lanes safely. (The car has a top speed of 83 mph, an illegal speed on most highways worldwide.) Highland driving is both a chore and bore in this one.


Capacities:
There is seating for four. There is enough cargo space for a week's worth of groceries for an American family of four. The fuel tank holds 7.7 gallons of regular unleaded gasoline.

Mileage:
averaged a bit more than 48 miles per gallon in city-highway driving, including a few runs along mountain roads.

Safety:
It has the basics--antilock brakes and dual-front air bags. But no side or head air bags are available at this writing.

Price:
The tested 2007 Chevrolet Matiz 0.8 SE with automatic transmission has a U.S. equivalent price of $13,759. Matiz prices range from $11,861 to $15,925, depending on the model chosen. Chevrolet, at the moment, has no plans to bring this micro car to the United States.

Purse-strings note:
This is a high-value city runner that compares with the Smart Fortwo, sponsored by Mercedes-Benz, which is scheduled to enter the U.S. market in early 2008.

Complaints:
The Matiz is not a mountain car. It crawls about in that milieu. It is competent on lowland highways. But the bottom line is that it is a city automobile that should be kept in the city.

On April 2, 2006 in a 60 Minutes interview with Bob Lutz, part of a prototype Cadillac was revealed to audiences. The car appeared to take design influences both inside and out from the Cadillac Sixteen concept from 2003. Prototype models caught testing at the Nürburgring in Germany also carry many of the design features from the car showcased in April nearly unmasked. Spyshots from the Nürburgring prototypes also show that the car will still have a manual transmission. The CTS will also have an all-wheel drive option.

At the North American International Auto Show in January 2007, GM introduced the all-new CTS that will go on sale as a 2008 model. The base model will feature a 3.6-liter variable valve timing V6 with 258 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. A second version will be offered, a new 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 VVT engine with an estimated 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque using regular unleaded gas. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard on all models. The six-speed Hydra-matic 6L50 automatic transmission will be opitional. Also on-demand all-wheel drive will be offered with the 258-hp engine and automatic transmission combo.

The new model is wider and longer with it measuring 191.6 inches (4766 mm) long, 72.5 inches (1841 mm) wide and 58 inches (1472 mm) in height. Wheelbase is 113.4 inches (2880 mm) with a front/rear track of 61.8 / 62.0 inches (1575 / 1585 mm).

Like its predecessor, the 2008 CTS is offered with rear- or, new for 2008, all-wheel-drive. Some suspension, braking, and steering improvements from last year's CTS-V have been added to the standard CTS.

Nine-spoke, 18-inch wheels surround larger high-performance brake calipers and rotors.

Side air extractors are located forward of the front doors.

Optional features include iPod integration, swiveling headlights, Bose premium audio, and remote start.

According to the current issue of Motor Trend, a coupe and station wagon version of the CTS may be produced and sold in the USA, although GM feels that they may be more successful in Europe. Also, an American model of a Cadillac based on the soon to be Saturn Astra may be in the USA as well in Sedan or 4-door hatch form.



2008 Cadillac CTS

TYPE:
Rear-drive or all-wheel-drive, mid-size, five-passenger, luxury sedan.

POWER:
3.6-liter, 300-horsepower, direct-injection VVT V6; six-speed auto transmission.

CHASSIS:
Independent suspension with short/long arm front and multi-link coil springs in rear with load-leveling shocks, stabilizer bar; performance-tuned, speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering; traction control with Stabilitrak; power disc brakes with ABS; dual exhaust.

LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT: 191.6 x 72.5 x 58 inches.

WHEELBASE X TRACK: 113.4 x 61.8/62 inches.

CURB WEIGHT: 3,872 pounds.

STANDARD:
Front/side/head-protection air bags; automatic climate control; power accessories; remote keyless entry; cruise control; AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system; power-adjustable front seats; leather upholstery; split-folding rear seat; driver info centers, power/heated outside mirrors; fog lamps; twilight sentinel lamps; alarm system.

Porsche Cayenne

The Porsche Cayenne is a mid-size luxury SUV produced by the German automaker Porsche since 2002. It is the first V8 engined vehicle built by Porsche since 1995, when the Porsche 928 was discontinued. Sales of the Cayenne have been strong, with 100,000 sold as of June 2005, becoming Porsche's best-selling vehicle in North America. 40% of Cayenne sales are in North America. Sales slowed by 2006. The Cayenne was skipped for the 2007 model year, but has been redesigned for 2008.



Design

The Cayenne was co-developed with Volkswagen, who were also looking to add a sports utility vehicle to their lineup, as a cost-sharing initiative. Volkswagen share this chassis (the E chassis) to underpin their Touareg sports utility vehicle, and Audi use an extended version for their Q7, although there are numerous styling, equipment and technical differences between the three vehicles. The Cayenne shares only its base engine with the Touareg, and Porsche's version is substantially modified. There are currently 4 engines available in the Cayenne:

* 3.2 L 240 PS (237 hp/177 kW) VR6 from Volkswagen (Based on the unit offered in the VW but with modifications made to the intake, exhaust, timing systems and head)
* 4.5 L 340 PS (335 hp/250 kW) V8 (S)
* 4.5 L 450 hp (340 kW) 460 ft·lbf (624 N·m) twin-turbocharged V8 (Turbo)
* 4.5 L 500 hp (370 kW) 515 ft·lbf (698 N·m) Tequipment twin-turbocharged V8
* 4.5 L 521 hp (389 kW) 531 ft·lbf (720 N·m) twin-turbocharged V8 (Turbo S)


Performance

The turbocharged model has extremely high performance for a sport utility vehicle. It is roughly as quick to 60 miles per hour as the company's Boxster S (about 5.2 seconds), and the new Tequipment special version will be faster still. Reviews indicate that the Cayenne handles remarkably well for a heavy SUV — much better than the BMW X5, which is saying something — whilst having a comfortable ride, and, by some sources, better off-road ability than BMW, Mercedes, and Infiniti. Those cars are, unlike native off-road vehicles, not meant to climb rock mountains and pass deep rivers (due to the price and comfort they offer) but are fully capable to drive "where man need". Many users of SUVs report that car's ability to reach any skiing or recreational center and being comfortable during general winter drive is all they need. Other reasons for buying such cars are increased safety, street overview, and independence on "planned route" - which is why many US-based SUVs and pickups lack even 4-wheel drive or self-locking differentials. The Cayenne does not therefore offer the level of off-road capability of Land Rover products.

The competence, however, comes at a cost, with the "S" V8 model being more expensive than a comparably-specified BMW X5, and the turbocharged model costing nearly US$90,200 before adding options, about as much as a fully equipped, V8 powered Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Cayenne's rival in terms of cost and prestige is the Land Rover Range Rover, and to a lesser extent the BMW X5. The Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Audi Q7 regrettably fall short of this distinction. The success of the Cayenne has prompted Land Rover to develop the smaller, sportier, and but fully off-road capable Range Rover Sport as well as to offer a supercharged version of their top-range model.

The Cayenne comes standard with alloy rims from 17"-20" sizes and a variety of styles. The least-expensive Cayenne model comes standard with the 17" rims, but has the cability to upgrade to any of the four 18"-20" rims. An all-season tire is standard on the 17" rim, and available as a no-cost option for 18" rims. These are the wheels that are most suitable for off-road/snow use. Lower-profile, high performance tires are standard for wheels above 19". These tires would not be suitable for off-road/snow use. Porsche/Volkswagen jointly did extensive off-road testing with the Cayenne and Touareg and actually both are not so capable off-road even though. Both vehicles come standard with 4-wheel drive, a manually lockable center differential and a "low range" setting. Options to make the vehicles more capable off-road include an available air suspension system which can raise the car's ride height on command and an interior switch allowing the rear differential to be manually locked along with the center unit. At maximum ride height, the air suspension system gives the Cayenne 10.7 inches (272 mm) of ground clearance.


Cayenne Turbo S

Porsche introduced a higher-output Turbo S version at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show to compete with the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, which produces 510 hp (375 kW) and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.8 seconds. The Turbo S produces 520 hp (389 kW) and 531 ft·lbf (720 N·m), making it the second most powerful vehicle Porsche has ever built for the road, after the Carrera GT. It is able to accelerate to 60 mph quicker than the Cayman S at 5.1 seconds (mfg. claim). It releases 378 gCO2/km.

The Turbo S also has a recalibrated suspension, 20 inch wheels, and larger brake discs. It lowers 27 mm above 125 km/h and 11 mm more above 210 km/h.


Hybrid

At the IAA 2005, Porsche announced it will produce a hybrid version of the Cayenne before 2010.

Recently, Michael Winkler, managing director of Porsche Australia, revealed that a hybrid Cayenne would be available in Australia in 2009.[1]. Winkler also said that the system is designed to work with all of the engines in the Cayenne lineup. This means a hybrid Cayenne Turbo could be possible. The hybrid will only be mated to the all wheel drive system and won't be offered in any other models.


Controversy

Many Porsche enthusiasts are unhappy with the company for producing an SUV, seeing it as diluting the meaning of the brand. According to Wheels, a well-regarded Australian car magazine, the decision to develop the Cayenne was a contentious one for the company for this reason. Management reportedly felt, however, that the company needed a more dependable source of revenue than the fickle sports car market. Much of the disapproval from Porsche owners come from the joint development of the car with Volkswagen. Although both the Cayenne and Touareg are solid SUVs in the market today, many believe the Cayenne would be superior in many departments if developed solely by Porsche. Some believe the Touareg is a better executed car available for significantly less money. British motoring journalist Jeremy Clarkson put it: "It's not a bad car and in many respects it's a very good one, but just as no-alcohol lager defeats the objective, so does a Porsche off-roader. Can you imagine Land Rover producing a rear engined sports car? Exactly".

In May 2004, Porsche issued a recall on the Cayennes for seatbelts that do not function properly during a collision.

It is also rumored that Porsche could produce a second SUV, smaller, shorter, less powerful and based on the Audi Q5.


Engines:
3.6-liter V-6, 290-hp, 273-lb-ft
4.8-liter V-8, 385-hp, 369-lb-ft
4.8-liter turbo V-8, 500-hp, 516-lb-ft
All engines require premium fuel

Transmission:
Six-speed manual, six-speed automatic with clutch less shifting available.

EPA mileage:
3.6-liter: 14 mph city / 20 mpg highway
4.8-liter : 13mpg / 19 mpg
4.8-liter turbo: 12 mpg / 19 mpg

Notes:
An exceptional SUV with excellent performance but price rises sharply for fully loaded models.

Ferrari FXX

The Ferrari FXX is a car developed as part of an unusual development program by automobile manufacturer Ferrari in Maranello, Italy. It began production in 2005.

The car uses some technology developed from the Enzo Ferrari and combines it with some all-new developments from Ferrari and some of the suppliers. However, the car is only a part of the overall program: people pay £1.3 million ($2 million usd) but are only allowed to drive the car on special track days approved by Ferrari and after they drive the car they have to brief Ferrari on the car's performance. Michael Schumacher was given one when he retired from Formula One racing at the end of 2006. Ferrari's sister company, Maserati has developed a similar car, the MC12 Corsa.



The Car

Essentially an evolution of the Enzo, the FXX shares some components with its parent car, but significant portions are exclusive to the FXX.

The FXX's engine is based on the Enzo's but has been expanded to 6,262 cc (from 5,988 cc), and output has been boosted from 660PS, as seen in the Enzo, to 800PS (588kW) @ 8,500 rpm.

The gearbox incorporates the latest developments from Ferrari's F1 program and has a shift time under 100 ms. The brake pads are upgraded compared to those on the Enzo. It does, however, retain the ceramic discs found on the Enzo.

The tires on the FXX are 19 in (483 mm) slicks custom-developed for the car.

As with the Enzo, the seat and pedal configuration are custom fit to the user's exact measurements.

The FXX features a comprehensive data-monitoring and telemetry that not only allows the driver to improve performance, but also provides Ferrari technicians with valuable data to improve the FXX and future road-going Ferraris.

Ferrari has built 30 of these cars, and they have all been sold to preselected past Ferrari customers, including Ferrari's F1 World Champion driver, Michael Schumacher. Schumacher's FXX differs from others in that it is the only black FXX and comes with red trim on the rims, matte exhaust tips (regular FXX's have chrome tips), number 30 on the doors and his personal insignia on the seats. One car was not sold and is kept by Ferrari. These few customers will not only own a Ferrari FXX, but also participate in further testing and brand development. As the vehicle is not street-legal, owners have the option of storing the car at Ferrari's facilities. As part of the FXX program, the car is maintained by the Ferrari factory. The purpose of this particular program is to allow Ferrari's top customers exclusive access to its most up-to-date technology and to use their input to help develop future models. The FXX was reported to cost 1.5 million euro (excluding taxes)[1], for the car and the services that Ferrari provides with it.


Specifications

* Engine: Longitudinal, Mid-mounted, 75, naturally-aspirated aluminum V12

* Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder with continuously variable timing

* Fuel system: Bosch Motronic ME7 Sequential Electronic Injection

* Specific Output: 127.75 PS (126 hp/94 kW) per litre

* Drive system: RWD w/TCS

* Construction: Carbon fiber body over carbon fiber tub with rear alloy subframe

* Front brakes: Brembo CCM (carbon-ceramic) discs w/6-pot calipers, power assist ABS

* Rear brakes: Brembo CCM (carbon-ceramic) discs w/4-pot calipers, power assist ABS

* Front wheels: 483 mm (19 in) x 229 mm (9 in)

* Rear wheels: 483 mm (19 in) x 330 mm (13 in)

* Steering: Rack and pinion with power assist

* Suspension: Double wishbones with push-rod actuated coil-shock units, adaptive dampers, electronic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar

* Wheelbase: 2650 mm (104 in)

* Front track: 1660 mm (65 in)

* Rear track: 1650 mm (65 in)

2007 Acura MDX

The Acura MDX is all-new for 2007. It's larger now, and sized right for the job. It's aggressively sporty-looking, it's powerful and its suspension was developed on the Nurburgring, so the sportiness is really there. The interior design is especially zoomy, but not at the expense of function and ease of use.









Body style
5-door SUV

Engine
3.7L (3664 cc) 24 valve SOHC V6 VTEC
300 bhp @ 6000 rpm
275 lb.ft @ 5000 rpm

Wheelbase
108.3 in

Length
190.7 in

Width
78.7 in

Height
68.1 in

Curb weight
4541-4551 lb

Designer Frank Paluch (engineering), Ricky Hsu (styling)

2007 Ford Shelby GT500

Shelby and Ford returned with a Shelby-branded Mustang, the Shelby GT500 for 2007. Introduced at the 2005 New York International Auto Show, the GT500 uses a 5.4L (that was modified by Australia for their use in their 2006/2007 Ford Falcon Boss 290 BF GT) Modular supercharged V8. 500 hp and 475 ft·lbf (644 N·m) will be available, designed to outperform all previous Mustangs. A Tremec 6-speed manual transmission, suspension tuning, a body kit, and 18 inch wheels complete the car. The name "Mustang" does not appear in the official model name nor does it appear as branding on any part of the vehicle.

A collaboration of Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and Carroll Shelby, the GT500 will be produced in limited quantity for three years (approximately 10,000 units/year) on the line at Ford's Flat Rock, Michigan (AutoAlliance) assembly facility.

The right to purchase the first 2007 Shelby GT500 was auctioned off at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction on 21 January 2006 in Scottsdale, Arizona for $648,000. Proceeds will benefit the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.


Performance

The heavy iron block V8, with supercharger and water-to-air intercooler, shifts the weight bias further forward than the standard Mustang GT (57/43%; front/rear), but the car is said to handle predictably and ride comfortably. According to Car & Driver, a Corvette Z51 was deemed to be a better performance vehicle based on the tests performed, but the Shelby was found to be more practical, and to offer a more comfortable ride. They stated that the Shelby offered the "best [overall] bang for the buck around."

The January 2007 issue of Road & Track featured a comparison test between the Shelby GT500, Mustang GT/CS, Corvette Z51, and Corvette Z06. The 500 hp GT500 performed 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds where as the 400 hp Corvette Z51 made it in 4.5 seconds. The 505 hp Z06 completed this in 3.6 seconds. The GT500 performed a quarter-mile test in 12.8 seconds at 113.2 mph where as the Corvette Z51 made it in 12.8 seconds at 112.5 mph (Z06 in 12.0 seconds at 121.0 mph). These results may be due to the GT500 (3950 lb) being 660 lb heavier than the Corvette Z51 (3290 lb). In comparison, the 300 hp Mustang GT/CS had a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 13.9 seconds at 103.0 mph.

Series 9, episode 6 of the BBC's Top Gear saw a GT500 go round their track in 1:30, about the same as a VW Golf R32 or Audi S4. They were very critical of Ford's failure to upgrade the suspension and brakes along with the engine, unlike the less powerful Roush Mustang Stage III which managed a lap of 1:28. In comparison the standard Corvette managed 1:26.8, and the Z06, 1:22.4. On a rolling road, they only saw 440hp from the GT500.

Top speed of the GT500 is 150 mph electronically limited compared to the Z51's 186 mph non-limited. Even without the electronic limitation the Shelby is not expected to pass 170 mph according to Ford Engineers whose comments were based on wind tunnel experiments and drag co-efficient numbers (0.38).

Deliveries of the Shelby GT500 began in May 2006.


Powertrain:
5.4-liter, DOHC, 32-valve V8, with Roots-type supercharger (8.5 psi max boost); six-speed manual transmission; rear wheel drive

Horsepower:
500 at 6,000 rpm

Torque:
480 pound-feet at 4,500 rpm

Curb weight:
3,920 pounds

0-60 mph:
4.5 seconds

Wheelbase:
107.1 inches

Overall length:
188 inches

EPA fuel economy:
15 miles per gallon city, 21 mpg highway

2007 Saturn Vue Green Line

TYPE:
Front-drive, 5-door, 5-passenger, compact, hybrid, SUV.

PRICE:
$22,370 base

KEY RIVALS:
Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid.

POWER:
2.4-liter, DOHC, inline 4-cylinder Ecotec engine producing 162 foot-pounds torque; GM Hybrid System, 14.5 kilowatt electric motor producing 115 foot-pounds peak torque; Hydra-Matic 4T45-E 4-speed automatic transmission.

FUEL ECONOMY:
27 city, 32 highway mpg.

CHASSIS:
Steel spaceframe; independent suspension with anti-roll bars, front struts, three rear lateral locating links and coils springs; power rack-and-pinion steering; traction control; power disc/drum brakes with ABS; 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT:
181.3 x 71.6 x 65.3 inches.

WHEELBASE X TRACK:
106.6 x 61.3/61.2 inches.
GROUND CLEARANCE:
6.9 inches.

CURB WEIGHT:
3,474 pounds.

STANDARD:
Front air bags, rear window washer/wiper, theft deterrent system, battery rundown protection, tire inflator kit, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, steering wheel audio controls, AM/FM/CD stereo, foldaway rear cargo organizer, center console.

GMT900

The GMT900 debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, as the next generation full-size pickups and SUVs, and replacements for the GMT800 vehicles. The first GMT900 vehicle is the next-generation Chevy Tahoe.

GMT900 has been called a "Hail Mary pass" for General Motors — the company needs the revenue from these large trucks to continue operating profitably, and the failure of the series could result in insolvency. The company's resources were focused exclusively on GMT900 development through 2005, delaying other programs like the GM Zeta platform. With the 2005 spike in gasoline prices, some analysts have questioned the wisdom of "betting the company" on a line of large trucks, but initial sales have been brisk with no need to resort to rebates.

The GMT900 series features standard vehicle stability control. Original plans called for American Axle's "I-Ride" independent suspension module in the rear, but this appears to have been cancelled.

Short wheelbase (Yukon/Tahoe) GMT900 production began at GM's Arlington Assembly plant in Arlington, Texas on December 1, 2005, six weeks ahead of schedule. Production of the SWB versions began at Janesville Assembly in Janesville, Wisconsin in early 2006. Production of long wheelbase trucks (Suburban/Yukon XL) begins in Janesville and at Silao Assembly in Silao, Mexico in March. The Avalanche will be produced only in Silao, while the Escalade will be based in Arlington.

The SUVs began to show up at dealers in February 2006. Sales so far have exceeded expectations, with GM asking suppliers to ramp up parts production in advance of the launch of the remaining models.

The related Silverado and Sierra pickups will start production in late 2006. Interestingly, the original Hummer H2 does not appear that it is to be carried over to the GMT900 platform.

2007 GMC Sierra 1500

Body style/layout:
The GMC Sierra 1500 extended cab is a front-engine, body-on-box-frame pickup with two full side doors and two smaller rear access doors. It is available in rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, either with a short, intermediate or long cargo bed.

Engine/transmission:
The tested model had a 5.3-liter V-8 that develops 315 horsepower at 5,200 revolutions per minute and 338 foot-pounds of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine employs a computerized cylinder deactivation system to save fuel when running at moderate speeds and pulling light loads. The engine is linked to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Capacities:
There is seating for six. Maximum payload is 1,564 pounds. It can be equipped to tow up to 8,600 pounds. Fuel capacity is 26 gallons of recommended regular unleaded gasoline.

Mileage:
With driver and one passenger, and carrying no cargo, or pulling no trailer, we averaged 21 miles per gallon traveling at posted speed limits.

Safety:
Head air bags are optional. Side air bags, electronic stability control and traction control were not available at this writing.

Price:
Base price on the 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 extended cab pickup truck with four-wheel-drive and short bed is $31,795. Dealer's invoice price on that model is $29,092. Price as tested is $34,300, including $1,605 in options (remote vehicle starter system, heated power-adjustable mirrors, heated windshield-wiper fluid system, high-performance suspension) and a $900 destination charge. Dealer's price as tested is $31,324. Prices sourced from General Motors and www.edmunds.com.
Purse-strings note: Compare with Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Head-turning quotient:
It's a pickup truck. Sexy doesn't get it in this league. Power does. It looks powerful.

Complaints:
This is a high-rider, which is no problem for people long of leg. But ingress and egress can be challenging for short-legged types. Also, the four-speed automatic transmission should be replaced by a more fuel-efficient five-speed or six-speed model.
Ride, acceleration and handling: It is a full-size pickup truck that rides and handles like a pickup truck. People desiring something gentle and sedan-like should shop elsewhere. Acceleration is good, meaning that the GMC Sierra 1500 has no problems entering freeways or changing lanes.

2007 Jaguar XKR

The Jaguar XKR has racy upper and lower grilles filled with aluminum-finish mesh. Over its fog lights are flush-fitted panels combining the projector lenses with brake ducting mesh.
Image

The interior decor of the Jaguar XKR is functional if not particularly gracious.


Base price:
$86,500

Powertrain:
Supercharged 4.2-liter, 32-valve V8 with variable valve timing; six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode; rear-wheel drive

Horsepower:
420 at 6,250 rpm

Torque:
413 pound-feet at 4,000 rpm

Curb weight:
3,814 pounds

0-60 mph:
4.9 seconds

Wheelbase:
108.3 inches

Overall length:
188.6 inches

EPA fuel economy:
17 miles per gallon city, 25 mpg highway

2007 Jeep Patriot

The cabins are roomy enough for four adults.

Type:
A front-wheel-drive compact SUV. Four-wheel drive is available.

Retail price:
$14,985- $28,315 (including shipping)

Trim levels:
Sport and Limited

Engines:
2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 158-horsepower; 141-pound-feet torque;
2.4-liter, 4-cylnder, 179-horsepower; 165-pound-feet torque.'

Transmission: five-speed manual or CVT2

Dimensions:
Length: 14-feet, 7.7-inches;
Width: 5-feet, 9.1-inches;
Wheelbase: 8-feet, 7.7-inches

EPA mileage:
24 mpg city / 27 mpg highway, 2.0-liter, FWD, CVT;
26 / 30, 2.4-liter, 5-speed manual.
25/29, 4x4, 4-speed manual;
23/26, 4x4, CVT2 21/23 4x4 trail rated off-road package, CVT

Notes: Off-road packages must have the CVT transmission.


Report card
Exterior:
Good. Everyone will know this is a Jeep. It's rugged and compact.

Interior:
Good. Base models can be sparse, but seats are comfortable for long hauls or commutes.

Safety:
Excellent. Standard features include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, front and side curtain airbags.

Performance:
Good. Great off-road; provides a solid ride and good power.

Notes:
Definitely worth a test drive for anyone looking for a compact SUV that can head off-road.



Trivia

* Interestingly, the Patriot is also the name of a vehicle in Rockstar Games's hit video game series Grand Theft Auto, although the car in these games bears more of a resemblance to the now discontinued Hummer H1.

* Russian car manufacturer UAZ also has a 4x4 offroad vehicle named "Patriot". Incidentally, the UAZ product line has roots in the original WWII-era Jeep that was supplied by US to USSR.

2006 Acura RSX

Reliability and better-than-average performance are the hallmarks of the new 2006 Acura RSX Manual Coupe. Powered by a 2 liter 4 cylinder gas engine, the RSX Manual Coupe delivers 155 horsepower at 6500 rpm and up to 139 ft-lbs. of torque. It comes standard with a 5 Speed Manual w/Overdrive transmission and 2-wheel drive. The EPA rated gas mileage for the RSX with the standard engine and transmission is 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Seating for 4 is standard on this 2-door coupe.


The RSX comes with a few basic safety features as standard equipment, including a Dual Front & Front Side Impact Air Bag Restraint System, Front Fog Lights, and a Rear Window Defroster. Check the list of standard features for a full list, because no other safety features are available as optional equipment.

Similar vehicles include the 2007 Toyota Camry Solara SE Manual Coupe, the 2007 Honda Accord Coupe LX Manual, and the All are priced close to the RSX and provide comparable value, safety, utility and performance.