We check out some of the latest models from the top car makers

The new 2007 cars are hitting the dealer showrooms, so we took a look at the latest vehicles from the major manufacturers, with an eye toward safety features.

AUDI
The second generation of this Audi TT model is making its debut. The new TT Coupe embodies sheer dynamism in its design, in its engine output and in its performance.

The four-cylinder turbo engine, with the abbreviation TFSI, develops its power from a swept volume of 1,984 cc (2.0 liters). An international jury of experts voted it “Engine
of the Year” in 2005 and 2006. The TFSI combines the Audi-developed gasoline direct injection technology FSI, which has demonstrated its superiority in the R8 racing car with a turbocharger. Even more power is on tap from the V6 engine, with its 3,189 cc (3.2 liters) capacity.

Audi is also presenting the new generation of the A4 and S4 Cabriolet. Audi is now also offering two highly modern engines with FSI gasoline direct injection for the new A4 Cabriolet: the 3.2 FSI V6 and the turbocharged two-liter four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI. These combine high performance with a spontaneous response to every movement of the accelerator pedal and a peak-torque range at a high level.

The Audi A4/S4 Cabriolet’s A-posts are reinforced very effectively by means of high-strength tubes and their enhanced structure, which can provide extra safety should the car roll over. High-strength tubes are also used in the seat structure, as a means of protecting the occupants in the event of a lateral collision.

BMW
The BMW X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) comes with eight and six-cylinder engines, unique suspension, enhanced BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a weight-optimized bodyshell with extreme torsional stiffness all interact to ensure excellent agility and dynamic performance.

The new BMW X5 is the only vehicle in its segment available with both Active Steering, developed by BMW, and AdaptiveDrive (a combination of Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control). It is also the first SAV fitted with runflat tires as standard equipment.

The exterior design, just like the flexible and elegant interior, clearly underlines the dynamic character of the new BMW X5.

The new BMW X5 is 7.4 inches longer than its predecessor. However, the body designers have maintained the typical proportions of BMW’s outstanding SAV, as well as the overall sporting character of the vehicle. The extra size only becomes apparent at first glance within the interior of the new BMW X5.

The new BMW X5 boasts a double wishbone front suspension, which is noteworthy for this type of vehicle. This optimizes tire contact on the road and makes the new X5 capable of reaching high cornering forces.

CHRYSLER
The all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen is the latest addition to the Chrysler brand showroom. Compared to large SUVs, Aspen is more fuel-efficient and maneuverable. Compared to full-size SUVs, the Aspen features more interior passenger space and cargo room, coupled with unmatched towing and hauling capability.

A direct descendent of the original Jeep, the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler evolves from more than 65 years of legendary 4x4 leadership. Building on the successful original Jeep formula with an all-new frame, exterior and interior design, engine, and safety and convenience features, Jeep Wrangler delivers more capability, refinement, interior space, comfort, open-air fun, power, fuel efficiency, and safety features.

New features on the 2007 Chrysler 300 are include Adaptive Cruise Control, SmartBeam® Headlamps, heated rear seats, auto-dimming passenger-side exterior mirror and supplemental turn signal mirrors with courtesy puddle lamps. Equipped with integrated safety and security features, all 2007 Chrysler 300 rear-wheel- and all-wheel-drive models provide excellent occupant protection on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the Chrysler 300 five stars for driver and frontpassenger protection in a frontal crash, the highest rating in the U.S. government’s safety crash-test program.

The 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 earns the flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) designation with its 4.7-liter V-8 engine, providing customers the option of E-85 ethanol fuel. In addition, Dodge Ram 1500 continues to strengthen its customer appeal with optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP), remote start, standard electronic transfer case and front-axledisconnect system on four-wheel-drive models, power-sliding rear window, bucket seats, full-screen navigation radio and a DVD entertainment system.

FORD
Ford will introduce the all-new 2008 F-Series Super Duty pickup early next year. The all new Power Stroke diesel engine will displace 6.4-liters, which is an increase in displacement from the current 6.0-liter V-8. It will be the first pickup engine in North America to use a high precision, high pressure, commonrail fuel injection system featuring piezoelectric injectors.

The new Edge offers several layers of side-impact protection, including solid unibody construction with cross-member ladder frame, a reinforced greenhouse, energy-absorbing side door trim, standard seat-mounted side air bags and Ford’s Safety Canopy™ system with rollover detection and extendedduration side curtain air bags.

The 2007 Mustang includes two new appearance packages and a host of interior and equipment upgrades. Additional features include available heated front seats and a standard auxiliary audio input jack.

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