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 March 2006 Back to Table of Contents Back to Archives Main Page Section: Life & Leisure 2006 North American International Auto Show
Automakers made 67 new introductions, including 32 for worldwide production, 4 for North American production and 24 worldwide and 7 North American concepts. In a nod to this generation’s gasoline crisis, hybrids (at least future hybrids) took front and center. In a nod to this generation, Honda and Nissan introduced sub-entry level vehicles, the Fit and Versa respectively, intended to build brand-loyalty à la Toyota’s Scion brand. Some of the highlights: Toyota Camry: The completely redesigned sixth generation midsize segment-leading Camry features five trim lines, including a new one powered by Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive. The new gasoline-powered Camry powertrain ranges from a 158-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 24 mpg in city driving and 34 in highway to a 268-hp, 3.5-liter V6 rated at 22 mpg city and 34 highway. The hybrid boasts a 192-hp, 2.4-liter gas-electric powertrain that promises fuel efficiency in the range of 43-city and 37-highway, and can go from zero to 60 in less than nine seconds. The sporty SE version features front and rear spoilers, 17-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension with added under-floor braces. Honda Fit: Based on the Jazz, Honda’s popular Japanese and European urban model, the Fit offers a 109-hp, 1.5-liter VTEC four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Clearly marketed to the younger generation, the Fit features paddle shifters on the sport model, an available six-speaker, 160-watt sound system and an iPod music link accessory. The sport model adds larger wheels, cruise control and body-colored headlight mountings. Fit slots in below Honda’s Civic, which has progressively moved up-market in price and accoutrements, and adds to Honda’s best-of-the-full-line-automakers’ corporate average fuel economy. Ford Edge: Ford’s first crossover is built on the same platform as the soon-to-be-introduced Lincoln MKX. It features a 250-hp, 3.5-liter V6, with a six-speed automatic and either front or all-wheel drive. Its front end resembles the Ford Fusion sedan, and although it’s a tall-roofed vehicle, it has a streamlined body more like a Nissan Murano. Ford said the Edge should get good fuel economy for its class. Lexus LS460L: Featuring a 4.6-liter V8 with 380 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque that promises zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds, Lexus’ long-wheelbase flagship boasts fuel economy that is equal or better than its previous generation’s. A 19-speaker sound system features an internal hard drive server capable of storing 4,000 songs. And reclining rear seats offer extendable footrests. With its first-ever eight-speed automatic it uses a dual fuel injection system that combines both port and direct fuel injectors. The LS goes on sale this fall. Nissan Sentra and Versa: Nissan unveiled the sixth generation of its Sentra compact sedans and the Versa, the newest in Nissan’s North American portfolio, aimed at younger buyers. The Sentra will be powered by a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine matched with either a standard six-speed manual transmission or Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). It goes on sale late this year, with the sporty version to be expected early next year. The Versa is Nissan’s answer to the Honda Fit and Toyota’s Scion brand. Slotted below the Sentra with a starting price around $12,000, it will be available as either a hatchback or sedan, powered by a standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with an estimated 120 horsepower. Transmission choices include a standard six-speed manual or optional CVT or four-speed automatic. Fuel economy for the CVT-equipped model is estimated to reach 38 mpg in combined city/highway. The hatchback goes on sale this month. back to top back to table of contents Current Issue | About Forever Young | Where to Find | Advertise | Our Advertisers | Community Calendar | Contest | Clubs | Contact Us | Archives | Home |
