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Coming Next Issue
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Chip Foose |
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VW Phaeton W12 |
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Long Term Storage |
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Ultimate Ears |
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2005 Detroit Auto Show:
Moderation at NAIAS (continued) |
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For those of us whose checkbooks won't allow for a Porsche or Ferrari convertible to be parked in the garage, Saturn would like to have a word with you. The 2007 Saturn Sky was one of our favorite vehicles at the show, as it delivers a responsive, rear-wheel drive chassis in a sexy and sporty two-seater roadster at a price that's irresistible. Saturn told us the Sky will sell for under $25,000 and with a 170-horsepower 2.4-liter and a five-speed manual, that's a lot of bang for a buck.
Saturn also showed a concept called the Aura, and with its fresh new lines, handsome interior and 250 horsepower 3.6-liter V6, the Aura is downright exciting. The chassis is based on the current Pontiac G6 platform, so the chances of seeing the Aura on the road are good, and we're excited by that prospect.
Mercedes-Benz excited show goers with the introduction of a redesigned M-Class sport utility vehicle. Ever since it debuted in 1997, the popular M-Class has sold well, as drivers enjoyed the versatility, performance, and styling of the sport ute. The 2006 M-Class offers a revised four-wheel-drive system that includes a new hill assist system as well as a hill descent system. New suspension that attaches to a longer, 114" wheelbase will deliver improved ride and handling characteristics. A 268 horsepower, 3.5L V6 will power the ML350, while a 302 horsepower 5.0L V8 will power the ML500. Regardless of the motor choice, a new seven-speed automatic transmission will handle gear changing duties.
Land Rover has a real charmer on its hands with the 2006 Range Rover Sport. Drawing strong design cues from last year's Stormer concept, the Sport has our tongues wagging thanks to low profile tires, big wheels and an aggressive stance that screams "performance." An optional 390-horsepower supercharged V8 and standard four-piston Brembo brakes are obvious cues to Land Rover's intentions for the Range Rover Sport. The emphasis is more toward road holding capabilities rather than off-road performance, and we think that will attract buyers to Range Rover like never before.
Lincoln is hoping to attract a new group of buyers with the 2006 Lincoln Zephyr. The Zephyr is the upscale cousin to the new Ford Fusion, both of which are based on the hugely competent Mazda6 platform. The Zephyr offers a 210-horsepower 3.0L V6 engine that's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Inside, passengers are treated to a handsome interior that's decked out in upscale materials that include Ebony or light maple wood, sumptuous leather, brushed aluminum trim and a THX-certified sounds system. Lincoln didn't announce pricing, but we expect the Zephyr to retail for around $30,000.
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