Archive for October, 2007
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It was ten years ago that Volvo launched its first crossover wagon in America. The XC—or Cross Country as it was called then—has been quite successful, and this fall the third-generation XC70 will roll into showrooms. Continuing its reputation as a capable off-road vehicle, the new XC70 gets fresh styling as well as a higher level of luxury. read more…
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Later this spring, look for a freshened Touareg from Volkswagen, aptly named Touareg2. The new Touareg features updated styling that matches closer with the rest of the VW lineup, especially its new chrome front grille and redesigned headlights. A number of new feature innovations are being introduced on this new SUV, including a new rollover sensors system, hydraulic brake assist, ABSplus braking system and rain brake support, which intermittently wipes the brake rotors dry when windshield wipers are activated. read more…
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Toyota has had great success in the crossover market, and now the Japanese automaker hopes to continue this success with the introduction of an all-new Highlander. The 2008 Highlander sports all-new styling with a grille that ties in with that of the smaller RAV4. With clean, crisp lines designed to emphasize a wide stance, the sculpted lines in the fenders give a more dynamic and stronger look. read more…
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Just one year after introducing the sporty SX4 5-door hatchback, Suzuki is following up with the SX4 sedan. Possessing exterior styling inspired by a Japanese Kabuki mask, the 2008 SX4 Sedan is based on the Swift, which is sold in the European and Asian markets. The chassis has been tuned to provide stable and responsive handling, and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes are standard equipment. Powering the SX4 Sedan is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 143 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can choose either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with dual front, side and curtain airbags as standard equipment, SX4 also comes with a standard AM/FM/MP3/CD with four speakers and seating for five. The new SX4 Sedan is expected to arrive in showrooms this fall.
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When Subaru debuted its first 7-passenger SUV—the B9 Tribeca—there was much praise for the interior styling; however, the front-end design was not as widely accepted. Subaru listened, and for 2008 the Tribeca (B9 has been removed from the name) gets an all-new face as well as a number of additional updates. The most notable change aside from the new styling is under the hood. A new 3.6-liter boxer engine boasts increased horsepower and, even more importantly, better low-end torque. read more…
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After years of discussion around this diminutive car coming to America, DaimlerChrysler announced at last January’s Detroit Auto Show that the smart fortwo would indeed come to U.S. shores. Two smart models will be available initially, the fortwo coupe and fortwo cabrio. The two-seat fortwo measures just 8.8 feet long, 5.1 feet wide and 5.1 feet tall (for comparison, a MINI Cooper is about 12 feet long). However, because it just seats two, the passenger compartment is actually quite roomy. Fuel economy has not been announced, but smart claims that the car is designed achieve 40-plus miles per gallon. While smart is part of the Mercedes car group, a new dealer network will be created for distribution and service under Roger Penske and the UnitedAuto Group of dealerships. The new smart is expected to go on sale in the spring of 2008 starting around $12,000 for the coupe, around $17,000 for a fully loaded cabrio.
