Kid-Friendly Luxury Cars


The Volvo XC90 leads our list of the industry's most kid-friendly luxury cars. The Acura MDX, Saab 9-3 Sport Combi, Mercedes M Class and BMW X5 round out the top five. All are examples of how an increasing number of luxury automakers are recognizing that luxury isn't just for adults. With that in mind, they are equipping vehicles with safety features and amenities designed to protect and accommodate infants, children and adults.

Shop wisely, and you'll see it's possible to drive a more stylish car with luxurious leather seats, a superior sound system--and plenty of holders for your children's sippie cups.

That's what you'll find in the three-row Volvo XC 90. It also features a unique second-row seat with a 40-20-40 three-way split that offers flexible seating combinations and cargo space for strollers and groceries when needed. All safety belt systems in the XC 90 include "pretensioners," which cut rear seatbelt slack in the event of a collision, a feature typically reserved for front-seat passengers. There's third-row air conditioning and an interior air quality system that alerts passengers to toxic substances in the incoming air stream.
The Mercedes Benz ML 350 has an eye to safety and entertainment with DVD screens mounted to the rear of the front head rests. This design means that drivers are not obstructed by roof-mounted DVD screens or a rear passenger reaching up to adjust the screen.

"There is a level of expectation that a car that is well equipped for a family should have certain amenities for children.” says Fallon. "They want some minivan amenities, but don't want to remove themselves from a level of comfort, style and prestige they are accustomed to.”

Tata Nano: The name of the Tata 1-Lakh Car



Tata has unveiled its 1-Lakh Car at the 2008 Delhi Motor Show, and its officially been christened the Tata Nano. The model at the motor show was powered by a 33 horsepower 624cc two-cylinder gasoline engine mated to either a stepless CVT transmission or 5-speed manual transmission. A diesel version will soon follow. The 4-seater (5 if you squeeze) Tata Nano uses 5 liters of fuel per 100km and meets all Indian local crash test and emissions guidelines. It was also designed to pass international side offset and side crash tests as well as Euro 4 emissions tests.

The two-cylinder engine, which uses Bosch’s Value Motronic fuel injection and engine management is mounted at the rear of the car together with the battery. There is a small boot at the front where a person would normally expect the engine bay to be.
The car has no power steering, but being so light I don’t think you’d really need one anyway, plus at its 1 Lakh price point you really can’t complain. It also lacks an RPM meter, with its instrument panel consisting of only a speedometer, a fuel gauge and an oil light. The car will be priced at 100,000 Indian rupees, or 1 Lakh, but customers will pay slightly more than 1 Lakh at the dealers because of taxes and other charges.

This 1 Lakh price tag is for the standard car, which does not have air conditioning. The two deluxe models will cost more.

Tata expects to sell 500,000 units of the Tata Nano, and the car will go on sale in the second half of 2008.

Spyker C12 Zagato


Retailing for $650,000, the Spyker C12 Zagato is an all aluminum rear wheel drive luxury sports car powered by a 6.0 liter, 12 cylinder, 500bhp, W12 engine. Limited to only 24 cars, the Spyker C12 is equipped with a six speed manual transmission and F1 style shifting for those high speed Sunday drives on the interstate. With acceleration from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph, The Spyker Zagato will undoubtedly be a favorite of sports car collector’s everywhere. The design of the Spyker C12 is as unique as they come, with a full leather cockpit and brushed aluminum instrument panel based on F1 styling. Deliveries for this high performance sports car will begin in 2008.

Saab Aero X


The Saab Aero X is a concept car with no doors, no keys and exceptional fuel economy. The Aero X is powered by a 400 hp 2.8-liter V6 twin turbo with aluminum construction that runs on pure ethanol and has a seven speed automated manual transmission with double clutch system. Weighing roughly 3000 pounds with acceleration of 0-60 in 4.9 secs and a top speed of 155 mph, its not exactly the fastest sports car there is, but what it lacks in speed it makes up for in design and fuel economy.

Built around the design of a fighter jet, it has a full 180 degree field of view with a fighter jet style cockpit that opens up with a push of a button. The Aero X has a multi functional control system on the center console that provides maximum control and allows the driver to start the car, open the canopy and change gears. Currently just a concept car Audi is planning on a production car inspired by the Saab Aero X and will most likely make it’s debut within the next year or so.

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid


The Porsche Cayenne Hybrid will be unveiled at the 2007 Los Angeles Motor Show which begins on the 16th of November 2007 - that’s this Friday. The new Cayenne Hybrid uses a Full-Parallel Hybrid system that enables the hybrid SUV to comsume less than 9 liters per 100km travelled, a feat for a huge SUV like the Cayenne.

2008 Pontiac Solstice


The 2008 Solstice is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in two trims, the Convertible and the GXP Convertible.

Upon introduction, the Convertible is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 173-horsepower engine. The GXP Convertible is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 260-horsepower, turbo engine. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

2009 Nissan GT-R


The 2009 Nissan GT-R, an all-new high-performance coupe, goes on sale next summer.
The name GT-R (for grand turismo racer) has been legendary in Japan since 1969 when Datsun applied the Skyline GT-R moniker to a four-door sedan. That car went on to win 36 races in four years, then disappeared. The name was reborn in 1989 as an all-wheel-drive production sports coupe with supercar performance. The last Skyline GT-R was offered in 2003.

Nissan will finally bring the GT-R to the United States as a 2009 model starting in June 2008. The Skyline name has been dropped (now used by Japanese home market versions of the Infiniti G35 sedan and G37 coupe).

A 2+2 coupe, the 2009 Nissan GT-R is based on a new platform Nissan calls PM for Prime Midship. Nissan says PM is an advanced version of the Front Midship (FM) architecture that is home to the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G37 coupe, among others. Like FM, PM aims for balanced weight distribution by moving the engine back so most of its weight is behind the front axle. The GT-R rides on a 109.4-inch wheelbase.

2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder


The 2008 Eclipse Spyder is a 2-door, 4-passenger convertible, or convertible sports car, available in two trims, the GS and the GT.

Upon introduction, the GS is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 162-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The GT is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 260-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

History of Mercedes-Benz


Mercedes-Benz (sometimes shortened to just Mercedes or Benz or Merc) is a German brand name of automobiles, buses, coaches, and trucks created for Daimler-Benz AG and now owned by DaimlerChrysler AG. The Daimler-Benz company originated on June 28, 1926 when two companies, Benz & Cie. and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft (DMG), the inventors of the automobile, merged.

Established in 1871, Benz & Cie. was the most important of several companies founded by Karl Benz. DMG was founded by Gottlieb Daimler and his partner Wilhelm Maybach in 1890, but Daimler died in 1900 and Maybach left DMG in 1907, by which time the two companies were rivals. In 1924, owing to economic necessity after World War One, they entered into an "Agreement of Mutual Interest" (valid until the year 2000), however, this initial agreement still allowed each company to manufacture and sell their products under their original brand names. It was only after the 1926 official merger, that the brand Mercedes-Benz was created and used.

Mercedes-Benz is the brand name applied to the models of one of the premier automotive manufacturers in the world and, because of its tie to Karl Benz, it is also the name of the world's oldest continuously produced automobile line. In 1926 when the new company, Daimler-Benz was established through merger, a new logo also was created that would include a symbol for each and integrate the names of the two former companies. A three-pointed star had been designed by Gottlieb Daimler, to show the ability of his motors for land, air, and sea use. This star first appeared on a DMG model in 1909, so it was chosen for the new logo. However the brand name Daimler was compromised after the death of Daimler in 1900, and allowed to be used on other automobiles, so the name of its seminal Mercedes model was chosen for the DMG portion of the logo. The traditional laurel symbol of Karl Benz was added along with his name to complete the new logo. The logo with a plain ring, as seen today, was not used until 1937.

Mercedes-Benz automobiles have introduced - both in the past and present - many technological and safety features. It was in 1998, when Daimler-Benz and Chrysler agreed to combine their businesses - known as the "merger of equals", that a new entity, DaimlerChrysler AG was created.

Maserati MC12 Corsa


Evey year automakers spend considerable amounts of money creating the most extreme racing cars to edge out their competition on the track. Unfortunately, lust-worthy as they are, those competition machines are rarely available to the common consumer to buy. That's where homologation regulations come into play.
The Maserati MC12 campaigns in the FIA GT Championship. In order to enter the championship, which the team took in 2005, Maserati fabricated and offered 50 vehicles to the public. But as devastatingly fast as the roadgoing MC12 was, some customers wanted more. So Modena rolled out 12 examples of the MC12 Corsa (a.k.a. Versione Corse) to satisfy the needs of its most loyal, track-obsessed clients. Based closely on the GT1 racing version, the MC12 Corsa packs a mammoth 6-liter V12 producing 744 horsepower – 121 more than the roadgoing supercar. The Versione Corse compared to the Ferrari FXX: both of them were based on the Ferrari Enzo, both were offered in limited numbers, both were maintained for their best clients by the factory, and most importantly, neither were certified for road use. However, one German customer managed to get his MC12 Corsa certified for street use, and that solitary example is now up for sale. Illustrating the point that depreciation does not apply to the top echelons of the supercar market, the minimum bid on this unique MC12 Corsa is 1.45 million euros – 45% higher than the original sale price from the factory, and it's sure to sell for more than that when the hammer finally drops.

Lotus Evora


Lotus officially announced the new Evora, previously known by the code name Eagle. This is the first all new Lotus since the Elise made its debut in 1995. Currently, this is the world’s only 2+2 mid-engine sports car. Although, Lotus is careful to warn that the back seats are only suitable for children or those with very small legs.
This Lotus still retains its sporting heritage, however much attention has been made to make it a more practical and comfortable car. Those familiar with the Elise/Exige are familiar with the contortions required to enter and exit the vehicle. The new Evora has wider and taller door openings, and the sills are narrower, making it easier to slide over.

Similar to other Lotus, it is mid-engine, and lightweight, although at 2976 pounds, it tips the scales at almost 1000 pounds more than the svelte Elise/Exige. To help propel that increased weight, a Toyota 3.5-liter V-6 is stuffed behind the passenger cabin. This engine churns out 276 horsepower and 252-lb-ft of torque. That is enough to push the car from 0-60MPH in five seconds with a top speed of around 160MPH.

While clearly not as sporting as the Elise/Exige, which are essentially street-legal race cars, the Evora will help lure those who are used to comfortable sports cars such as the Porsche Cayman. The classy styling, lower price (~60K), and exclusivity may help steer younger would-be Porsche customer into a Lotus.

Land Rover LRX


Tossing its stodgy traditional design aside, Land Rover gave us a glimpse of what future styling may look like as it prepares for the North American International Auto Show next month. The LRX demonstrates advanced, sharply imaged future looks. The three-door “cross-coupe” LRX incorporates a “floating” 3D-graphic instrument panel that can be personalized by the driver; background lighting to match the selected drive mode; and iPhone and iPod docking.

Integrating contemporary design and technology, the LRX will utilize lightweight and environmentally sound materials. True to Land Rover cachet, the LRX will offer a high level of luxury, yet will be just as happy playing in the dirt equipped with the programmable four-wheel-drive system, Terrain Response, which receives a new Eco mode for lower emissions.

Even as Ford talks over selling off Land Rover, the LRX makes the statement that the company hasn’t given up on its investment. It also hints at the excitement we'll see at the NAIAS in Detroit.

Corvette ZR1


GM thinks that the Corvette ZR1 is pretty much the baddest machine on four wheels, period. This was driven home today in a post on the Fastlane Blog by Chevy general manager Ed Peper. Seeing him advocate his brand's (and GM's) flagship is far from surprising, and as he rattles off the car's positives, it seems like pretty standard-issue public relations fare. It's only as he wraps up that he seems to get a little exercised over some folks' habit of turning all Corvette-related conversations into pushroad vs. overhead-cam arguments. In response, he namechecks some very heavy hitters -- the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 GTB, and the Lambo LP640 -- as he casually pulls the gloves off, matter-of-factly stating that the ZR1 has a better power-to-weight ratio than all of them. Then, in his parting shot, he dons the brass knuckles and calls out any and all comers who would challenge the Corvette ZR1's abilities with two simple words: "Bring it."

Bugatti Veyron 16.4



The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Volkswagen AG subsidiary Bugatti Automobiles SAS introduced in 2005. It is the quickest accelerating and decelerating road-legal production car in the world, and it was the world’s fastest car until it was beaten by the SSC Ultimate Aero TT in 2007. Powered by a 1,001 PS (987 hp/736 kW) W16 engine,[2] it is able to achieve an average top speed of 408.47 km/h (253.81 mph).[3] The car reached full production in September 2005, and is handcrafted in a factory Volkswagen built near the former Bugatti headquarters in Château St Jean in Molsheim (Alsace, France). It is named after French racing driver Pierre Veyron, who won the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1939 while racing for the original Bugatti firm.

Bailey Blade could go on sale next year

35 year old Neal Bailey is trying something really cool. He wants to create a modern sports car that is inspired from the classic sports car and he has chosen the Shelby Cobra as his source of inspiration. We’re sure this was a really brave decision, because it’s not everyday we see someone trying to create its own sports car and, if the Bailey Blade project succeeds, hats down for Neal. The Bailey Blade is based on a heavily modified chassis from a replica Cobra, tweaked to fit an independent front and rear suspension. Bailey also aims at the Europeans, so the Blade will meet European standards, plus that a right side steering wheel will be available. Neal hopes to have a full working prototype by next summer and he also hopes to make the first sales at the end of 2008.

Aston Martin DB9


DB9 is a thoroughbred sports car with GT levels of comfort and refinement. Its design philosophy is uncompromising and brings together everything that makes a sports car great with that unique Aston Martin character, borne out of craftsmanship and use of the finest quality materials.

So what is it that makes a great sports car?

Most cars are a series of compromises. The result is usually rational – even impressive on paper – but often bland and soulless in reality. Sports cars should be all about character and driver involvement. They need to look great, sound great and have power and performance to stir the soul..



DB9 is new from the ground up. Every feature has been tailored to make the world's finest sports GT. The starting point was to define the ideal dimensions, proportions and materials for the chassis. Aston Martin did not use an adapted platform from an existing family or luxury saloon - the most common starting point for GT cars. This approach can lead to compromise in styling and weight and loss of character.

Aston Martin developed its own incredibly light and strong aerospace-specification bonded aluminium structure. This 'VH' (Vertical/Horizontal) architecture, which is unique to Aston Martin, has given DB9 one of the most structurally efficient body frames in the car industry. Its enormous rigidity aids handling, driver feedback and safety. More than any other single component, the advanced aluminium structure is the reason for DB9's extraordinary nimbleness, responsiveness and overall character.

2009 Cadillac XLR-V

The Cadillac XLR-V lineup is reduced to a single trim level in 2009, as last year's Alpine White Edition has been discontinued. Powered by a 443-hp 4.4L V8 engine sending 414 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, the supercharged XLR-V hardtop roadster is the quickest and most agile Cadillac model ever offered, reaching 60 mpg in a mere 4.6 seconds. With its fresh new exterior styling cues, as detailed in Cadillac XLR-V photos, and advanced technologies, the two-seater is a tempting combination of dynamic performance, comfort and luxury. Keyless entry as well as heated and cooled front seats and premium Bose audio distinguish the XLR-V interior, along with special hand-sewn leather seats. Standard are safety items such as antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control and side airbags that inflate to protect both the head and torso. EPA-estimated fuel economy stands at 14 mpg city/23 mpg hwy.

2009 BMW 535


The BMW 5-series puts an emphasis on the driving experience. This mid-size luxury car remains a true sports sedan and delivers lively acceleration, precise handling and outstanding brakes.

The rear-wheel drive 535i and all-wheel drive 535xi feature a 3.0-liter, twin turbo, inline-six generating 300 horsepower, with the choice of a six-speed manual transmission, optional six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic shifting or on the 535i only, a six-speed Sport transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifting. The 535xi is available in sedan or wagon bodystyles. Standard features include leatherette upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control with active micro-filtration, an AM/FM/CD stereo with 10 speakers, bi-xenon adaptive headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, six airbags and a rechargeable flashlight in the glovebox.

The 535 is unchanged for 2009.

2009 Lamborghini Murcielago


Unchanged for 2009, the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 is an exotic supercar that comes as either a two-seat coupe or convertible roadster with a soft-cloth targa-style roof. Lamborghini Murciélago standard features include xenon headlights, leather upholstery and interior trim, a tilt/telescoping steering column, automatic climate control, a CD/DVD/MP3 stereo,18-inch wheels with 245/35ZR18 performance tires in front and 335/30ZR18s in back, and adjustable suspension that raises the front to prevent ground scraping. The Murciélago LP640 is powered by a 6.5L V12 mid engine that makes 640 hp and 485 lb-ft of torque. With all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission as standard, an automated-clutch manual transmission with paddle-shifters is optional. According to Lamborghini, the Murciélago accelerates up to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph. Fuel economy estimates with the manual transmission are 8 mpg city/13 mpg hwy and 10 mpg in combined driving. Standard safety features include traction control and antilock brakes.

2009 Cadillac STS-V


Unchanged for 2009, the five-passenger Cadillac STS-V is a large high-performance luxury sedan available in one trim level that comes fully loaded. As the most powerful expression of Cadillac STS power and luxury, Cadillac STS-V performance is due to a supercharged 4.4L V8 engine pumping out 469 hp and 439 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with driver shift control. The rear-wheel drive sedan can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Inside, STS-V luxury is highlighted by special leather-trimmed upholstery and premium wood trim accents. Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, full-length head curtain airbags, OnStar and a rearview camera, as well as blind-spot and lane-departure warning systems. EPA-estimated fuel economy achieves 13 mpg city/19 mpg hwy.

2009 Audi R8


The 2009 Audi R8 is a carryover from the 2008 Audi R8, which is Audi's first ever mid-engine sports car. The 2009 R8 has a 420-hp V8 engine and AWD. It shares the mid-engine platform with the Lamborghini Gallardo. The Audi R8 features a standard manual in addition to the optional automated manual transmission. Audi claims a 0-62 mph time of 4.6 seconds, which many are deeming on the conservative side. The 2009 R8 offers the choice of LED or Xenon headlamps surrounded by LED running lights and indicators. The LEDs even make their way into the engine bay of the Audi R8, if you want to admire your V8 after hours. Options on the R8 include a Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 12 specially designed speakers which adjust to changing road conditions to improve sound quality. There are 8 exterior color options, not counting the Side Blade, for the R8 ranging from Ibis White to Phantom Black. If you are looking for a balanced supercar that makes you look like a better driver than you really are, the Audi R8 is for you. You can drive it like a rookie, and it will make you feel like a pro.

2009 Dodge Viper


Largely unchanged for 2009, the Dodge Viper performance specs boast an imposing 8.4L V10 engine that generates 600 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, enough to jam from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. With a top speed of 200 mph, Dodge Viper is rough and raw, even unrefined, when compared to other sports cars. The only transmission available is a 6-speed manual gearbox. While not a priority, fuel economy is EPA-rated at 13 mpg city/22 mpg hwy and 16 mpg combined. Standard safety features on the 2009 Dodge Viper are antilock brakes with 14-inch rotors for screaming stops, and the usual driver- and passenger-front airbags. Despite technological advances over the past two decades, the Viper has just enough safety equipment to make it legal, omitting side-airbags, traction control and stability control. Standard are race-inspired seats, power-adjustable pedals, full-power accessories, tilting steering wheel and 6-disc CD changer with a 7-speaker, 300-watt audio system. Options include racing stripes, instrument-panel trim, a two-tone interior, a navigation system and satellite radio.

2008 Ferrari 430


The 2008 Ferrari 430, a 2-door, 2-passenger luxury sports car, comes in three trims: the Coupe and the Convertible Spider (which are carryovers from 2007), and the new Scuderia. The coupe and convertible are equipped with a standard 4.3L V8 490-hp engine paired to a 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive as standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive as optional. The new Ferrari 430 Scuderia is a high-performance Berlinetta with an extremely low weight-to-power ratio of 2.45 kg per bhp and a 4308cc V8 engine boasting 510 bhp at 8500 rpm. To add to the Scuderia's ability to thrill the driver, the car comes with F1 Superfast, which reduces gear change times to just 60 milliseconds, and new traction control that, for the first time, combines the E-Diff electronic differential and F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

2009 Ford Mustang


Mustang continues its long, proud tradition with a lineup that includes a choice of coupe or convertible models, powered by a 210-horsepower V6 or 300-horsepower V8. Its aggressive exterior design is matched by an equally appealing four-passenger interior that features body-hugging front bucket seats and a split-folding second-row seat. Just a few minutes of driving is enough to convince anyone — ‘Mustang’ and ‘fun-to-drive’ are synonymous.

2008 Cadillac STS


The Cadillac STS is a luxury car for people who like to drive. It offers the latest in computerized engine management and provides smooth and efficient power.

The Cadillac STS comes with a 302 hp 3.6-liter V6 engine or a 320 hp 4.6-liter V8. Available with rear- or all-wheel drive it is controlled by a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar telematics, Stabilitrak electronic stability control, and rear park assist. Optional features include automatic headlamp high-beam control, lane departure warning, high-intensity headlights, and adaptive cruise control.

For 2008, the Cadillac STS gets a slight internal and external redesign and a more powerful base engine.

2008 Chrysler 300C


The Chrysler 300C is the performance version of the Chrysler 300, only with the addition of a standard Hemi V8. Available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Chrysler's 340hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine powers the 300C Hemi and all-wheel drive Base models through a five-speed automatic transmission. The engine is intelligently able to shut down select cylinders which conserves gas. Standard features such as, SmartBeam headlamps, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability control system enhance safety. A 425hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8 powers the SRT8.

The Chrysler 300C received a minor external redesign for 2008.

2008 Audi A6


The Audi A6 continues a legacy of dynamic excellence and exceptional comfort, with impressive attention to detail both inside and out. The A6 is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan or wagon (Avant), packed with technology that enhances convenience and driving dynamics.

The A6 is available in 4 trims: 3.2 FrontTrak Sedan, 3.2 quattro Sedan, 4.2 quattro Sedan and 3.2 quattro Avant. The A6 3.2 trims are equipped with a 255 hp 3.2-liter V6 engine, while A6 4.2 trims get a 350 hp 4.2-liter V8. A six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic is standard on the quattro all-wheel drive Sedan and Avant, while the front-wheel drive FrontTrak Sedan gets Audi's seven-speed Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Standard features on all trims include electronic stability control, six airbags, automatic climate control and Bluetooth wireless connectivity; A6 4.2 trims add a power sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, leather upholstery and heated front seats. High-tech options include Adaptive Cruise Control, passive entry, rear parking assist and an adaptive air suspension.

The Audi A6 gets a substantial exterior refresh for 2008. All trims now sport the S line exterior package, including 18-inch alloy wheels and distinctive exterior styling cues. Satellite radio becomes standard for 2008, and new options include Audi Lane Assist and a S line interior package.

2008 Infiniti G35


The Infiniti G35 is a luxury rear-wheel drive sport sedan boasting one of the best V6 engines available today.

Offering sporty handling the G35 sedan is available in three models - Base, G35 Journey and G35 Sport 6MT. A Sport Package is available on the Journey. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine making 306 horsepower the Base and Journey receive a five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, while the Sport 6MT is only available with a six-speed manual transmission. Standard safety features include front, side and side curtain airbags and active front-seat head restraints. An Infiniti iPod® Interface and 9.3 Gb Music Hard Drive are optional and all models come standard with satellite radio compatibility.

For 2008, the Infiniti G35 coupe has been reinvented as the new G37.

2008 Lexus LS 460


The LS 460 challenges all comers as the best luxury sedan in the world. It offers an excellent combination of comfort, space, silence, and features.

In addition to the new LS 460, there is a long-wheelbase version called the LS 460L with limousine-like rear accomodations. The LS 460 has a 4.6-liter V8 mated to a computer-controlled eight-speed automatic transmission. Safety features include eight standard air bags, ABS, electronic brake assist, ESP, adaptive front lighting that turns corners, and tire pressure monitoring.

The Lexus LS 460 is largely a carryover from its 2007 debut.

2009 Honda Accord


The Accord combines high technology and high quality with everyday economy of operation and keen attention to detail.

The Accord comes either as a two-door coupe or four-door sedan with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or 3.5-liter V6 engine. The four-cylinder engines are available in five-speed manual or automatic transmission for both styles of the Accord, while the V6 sedan is only available in five-speed automatic. The V6 coupe is available with a six-speed manual. Cloth upholstery is standard, however EX-L models feature leather seats and a leather-covered steering wheel. Safety is enhanced on all Accords with six standard airbags, including side-impact air bags for front seats and side curtain air bags. Four-wheel disc, anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, Brake Assist and active front head restraints also come standard.

2008 smart fortwo


The smart fortwo with its small stature provides excellent maneuverability in the city. On the road, its exceptional fuel economy makes it a great commuter vehicle.


The smart fortwo is available in either pure or passion trims. The pure is solely available in coupe form, while the passion is offered as a coupe or cabriolet. Power comes from a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a five-speed automated manual transmission. Standard safety features include electronic stability program, anti-lock brakes, four-airbags, and tridion safety cell.

For 2008, the smart fortwo is a fresh entry into the U.S. vehicle market.

2009 Acura MDX


The Acura MDX offers outstanding V6 power, standard seven-passenger seating and Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. Compelling styling, attention to detail, comprehensive safety equipment and advanced technologies increase the appeal of this luxury SUV.

The MDX is powered by a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with SportShift manual mode. Heated front seats, leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control and satellite radio are standard on every MDX. Three premium amenities packages are available: the Technology package adds a navigation system with voice recognition and integrated rearview camera parking assist, upgraded audio, HandsFreeLink (Bluetooth) wireless connectivity and a power tailgate; the Sport package includes the Technology package, as well as a sport suspension with active damper system, exclusive wheels and upgraded interior trim elements; and an Entertainment package boasts Acura's DVD Rear Entertainment system and heated rear seats. Standard safety-enhancing features include anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, SH-AWD, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, Xenon High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, front side-impact airbags, overhead curtain airbags for all three rows and active front head restraints.

The Acura MDX carries over with minimal changes for 2009. A remote-operated power tailgate, formerly available only on MDX models equipped with the Entertainment Package, is now included in the Technology and Sport packages.

2009 Honda Civic


The Honda Civic is one of the most reliable and popular economy compact cars in its class. For years it has set the quality and performance standard for the affordable, compact car market.

Available in sedan or coupe bodies, all but the GX and Si trims are powered by a 140 horsepower, 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder with a standard five-speed manual transmission and optional five-speed automatic. The performance-oriented Si, comes with a 197 horsepower, 2.0-liter inline-4 bolted to a six-speed manual, while the GX is powered by a dedicated natural gas version of the 1.8-liter gas engine, and a five-speed automatic. Standard safety features on all Civics include anti-lock brakes, six airbags, active front head restraints and tire pressure monitoring.

For 2009, the Honda Civic gets refreshed exterior styling and new optional tech features, while the sedan adds two new trims, a DX-VP (Value Package) and an LX-S.

2008 MINI Cooper Overview


The MINI Cooper provides a satisfying combination of fun-to-drive performance, a distinctive bulldog appearance, and custom ordering of a variety of trim and color options at a very reasonable price.

The front-wheel drive Cooper is available in either a two-door hatchback or a two-door soft-top convertible bodystyle. The hatchback was redesigned for the 2007 model year, which gave it an updated 1.6-liter 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine capable of 118-hp and mated to a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic. The convertible soldiers on unchanged since its release in 2005 with a 115-hp 1.6-liter engine bolted to either a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. Standard safety features include six airbags on the hatchback, four on the convertible, ABS, and Electronic Brake Distribution. Features such as Xenon headlights, Park Distance Control, stability control, rain sensing wipers and front and rear fog lights are optional.

The 2008 MINI Coopers are a carryover from 2007.

2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid Overview


Brand-new interior and exterior styling and a plethora of new features highlight the 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid. The perfect combination of SUV flexibility and hybrid technology – it’s available in front- or all-wheel drive and very limited production. For 2008, there will be only 350 vehicles available exclusively in California.

2009 Mazda CX-9 Overview


Introduced for the 2007 model year, the CX-9 crossover has a number of standard safety features and can seat up to seven people in its three rows of seats. It's powered by a standard 3.7-liter V-6 engine and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. Competitors include the GMC Acadia, Hyundai Veracruz and Toyota Highlander.

2009 Mazda RX-8 Overview



If your idea of driving is not just a mundane exercise to get from point A to B, then you will want to visit the newly-redesigned 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition to new aggressive front and rear styling, the RX-8 features a new trim level and the one-of-a-kind RENESIS rotary engine.

2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Overview


The second-generation Highlander Hybrid gas/electric SUV was introduced in 2008. The Highlander can operate in an all-electric mode that can be used for limited distances. Five- and seven-seat models are available. Base and Limited trims are offered, and the hybrid is only available with all-wheel drive. Its competition is the Ford Escape Hybrid and Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid.

2009 Toyota RAV4 Overview


One of the strongest candidates you’ll find in the crossover SUV category, the 2009 Toyota RAV4 combines interior space and cargo room with a comfortable, easy and fun ride all into one. And with added engine strength in this year’s model, this vehicle is potent under the hood.

The RAV4 comes available in three superb trim levels: base, Sport and Limited. A new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine good for 179-horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque is mated with a four-speed automatic transmission. This vehicle can be equipped with either front- or four-wheel drive. Optional on all trims and coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission is a 3.5-liter V-6 behemoth that offers an even more impressive 269-horsepower that delivers quick acceleration when necessary.
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