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.

(...continued)

SAAB
The biggest news for the Saab 9-3 range is the new interior for 2007. It features a redesigned cockpit with new automatic climate control and infotainment systems, a larger instrument cluster with chrome details and new interior trim. The new interior bears resemblance to the classic lines of the first generation Saab 900, and features
a new navigation system as an option.

The Saab 9-5 line, which was refreshed inside and out just this spring, includes the 2.3T sedan and the Aero Sedan.

SUBARU
Subaru’s 2007 Legacy 2.5 GT spec.B performance sedan spotlights Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive), a key new technology that enhances driving engagement by allowing the driver to select the level of performance.

All Impreza WRX STI models are powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC Boxer engine producing 293 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology helps provide strong torque characteristics throughout the engine’s operating range.

All WRX STI models are equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission that features carbonplated double-cone synchronizers on 4th, 5th and 6th gears to help ensure durability.

TOYOTA
The Toyota Prius returns as the most fuelefficient midsize sedan in America, delivering on the promise of exceptional fuel efficiency without compromising performance, comfort or safety. For 2007, a new Camry Hybrid joins the Prius and Highlander Hybrid SUV in the Toyota lineup.

Passive safety features include front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all rear seating positions, advanced dual front airbags, and driver and front passenger seatmounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags. A standard tire pressure monitoring system can detect a significant loss in pressure in one or more tiers and alert the driver by a warning light.

The Camry Hybrid will yield exceptional fuel efficiency with preliminary estimated ratings of 40 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway and 39 mpg in combined driving. Additionally, Camry Hybrid is expected to be certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), just one of a handful of cars to meet the strict AT-PZEV standard.

The utility features of the Toyota FJ Cruiser include a two-part rear hatch with flip-up glass, black overfenders with mudguards, and silver painted bumper extenders, mirrors, door handles and skid plate. Easy rear passenger entry into the two-door SUV is achieved with rear access doors.

Lexus' all-new 2008 LS 600h L hybrid luxury sedan is scheduled to arrive in spring 2007. The all-wheeldrive LS 600h L will be the world's first vehicle to feature a full hybrid V8 powertrain. Coinciding with the debut of the all-new LS is the introduction of the Lexus Hybrid Drive name, which will be used globally for all Lexus hybrid models. The hybrid-drive system in the LS 600h L builds upon the Lexus legacy established by the RX 400h and GS 450h to combine an all-new five-liter V8 gasoline engine with large, high-output electric motors and a newly designed large-capacity battery pack. This combination will provide the LS 600h L with an balance of environmental efficiency and performance, furnishing the hybrid with a peak combined output rating of more than 430 horsepower.

VOLKSWAGEN
North American consumers now have a chance to test-drive Europe’s top-selling convertible—the 2007 Volkswagen Eos, featuring a revolutionary five-panel roof that transforms a hardtop coupe roof with an integrated sunroof to an open convertible.

The Eos, which goes on sale this fall, arrived in showrooms across the country last week for consumer test-drives and displays.

Volkswagen offers the Eos with two engines: an award-winning 2.0 liter turbo, 200 horsepower, four cylinder and a 3.2 liter, 250 horsepower version of Volkswagen’s narrow angle V6.

In addition to the innovative CSC (coupe-sunroofconvertible) roof, the Eos includes high-quality standard features such as Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP),
safety-optimized front headrests, front airbags and specially developed front side head-thorax airbags; 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch standard on the V6 model), air conditioning system, fog lights, panoramic sunroof, power windows, and cruise control.

The Rabbit, which is sold under the Golf nameplate in other markets, was re-introduced to the U.S. market this summer. Standard features include an advanced ABS braking system, traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags, air conditioning and anti-theft alarm system with remote locking.

Among the most impressive new driving advancements are a standard electro-mechanical steering system, and an optional advanced Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP). The Rabbit also promises more interior room than ever with a large rear hatch opening.

VOLVO
The all new Volvo S80 incorporates the latest technology for safe driving and personal security. “Safety is not just a matter of avoiding accidents,” explains Silvia Güllsdorf, business project manager for the all new Volvo S80. ”In an increasingly insecure world, safety also extends to control over our immediate environment, both at
home and in the car.”

The all new Volvo S80 comes with a unique optional feature in the form of the Personal Car Communicator (PCC).

The PCC is an advanced, pocket-sized remote control. The device is used to open the car door automatically when you pull the door handle. To lock it when you press
the button, either on the handle or the PCC.

You can also start the car without a key. Just sit in, place your feet on the pedals and push a button to start the engine. At a range of 60 to 100 meters when approaching the car, you can obtain a security status report by pressing the information button. Different LEDs then tell you if the car is locked or unlocked, others whether somebody has interfered with the vehicle and caused the alarm to go off. A flashing red light means that the heartbeat sensor has been activated and that there is an intruder in the car.

The car alarm is activated if somebody breaks a window, moves about in the car or the panic button on the remote control is pressed. The car will then emit a cacophony of sound and light, and all of the lights will come on — all while the alarm itself is sounding.

(continued...)

PREVIOUS | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | NEXT