Variance

And here I thought they were doing ok because I was beginning to see more of them. Guess not.

Thanks for the shots and welcome to C&G.

Ah...the 9-2X reminds me of another nice option: The best part is, it's born from jets. :AH-HA_wink:

This thing gonna have a Hemi? Nope. Edmunds: Dodge Nitro won't get Hemi

A Driver’s Car Next Bentley Arnage to be lighter, sportier, automaker says By TONY LEWIN | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS AutoWeek | Published 02/07/06, 10:08 am et Bentley will explore lightweight construction techniques for the replacement of its flagship Arnage ultra-luxury sedan. The future new model will compete with the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Mercedes-Benz Maybach at the very top of the luxury market, so it will be very sporting, despite its size and status. “Bentley is the sporting alternative at that higher price too,” said Dirk van Braeckel, head of design at Bentley, told Automotive News Europe. Bentley is part of the Volkswagen group. “This is what will really differentiate us from the other cars. Ours will be a real driver’s car.” The car would be more aerodynamic, more muscular and make a stronger statement, van Braeckel said. “Being a driver-focused car, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a long limousine or be focused on the rear.” Asked whether the new car would be capable of more than 300 kph, like the Continental GT and Flying Spur, van Braeckel said: “Being a worthy Bentley, it would have to.” He added: “But it would also have to be a very personal, hand-built, commission-oriented type of car, like the Arnage is today. For the Arnage customer, his car is more of a castle than a house.” Bentley’s brand values are still the same as in the past, but they had been strengthened by the success of the Continental GT and Flying Spur, he said. “We gauge what we do in terms of our bloodline cars, but we don’t do retro.” This year, Bentley will launch two new cabriolets – the new Azure and the open version of the Continental. Link: http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...E/60206010/1041

Special Edition Models of the 2006 Jeep® Commander, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Wrangler Mark 65 Years of Jeep Heritage and Capability Freedom, Adventure, Mastery and Authenticity are the hallmarks of the Jeep brand 65th Anniversary Edition Jeep vehicles include popular and unique options A new color — Jeep Green — is offered for the first time Limited production vehicles can be ordered now Auburn Hills, Mich., Feb 9, 2006 - The Jeep® brand is celebrating 65 years of go anywhere/do anything capability with special edition models of the 2006 Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wrangler, all equipped with popular and unique features. These limited production vehicles will be on display during press and public days at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show, February 8-19 at McCormick Place. "Since they were first mass produced in 1941, Jeep vehicles have gone on to become the authentic benchmark for off-road capability," said John Plecha, Director, Jeep Marketing and Product Planning, the Chrysler Group. "Jeep vehicles have mastered more terrain, lead more adventures and provided drivers more freedom than any other vehicle before or since. These 65th Anniversary Editions pay homage to the legend that is Jeep." The Jeep 65th Anniversary Edition vehicles will be offered in Light Khaki, Dark Khaki, Bright Silver, Black and a new color, Jeep Green. The MSRP of the Jeep Commander 65th Anniversary Edition is $28,880 for the 4x2 version and $30,880 for the 4x4 version. The 3.7-liter V-6 engine is standard; the 4.7-liter V-8 is optional. Features include: Power sunroof including CommandViewTM Skylights Monochromatic exterior appearance with body color door handles and rear license plate brow Bright chrome bodyside moldings and tow hooks Fog lamps Cargo net Unique 17-inch Wrench aluminum wheels with gray accents Unique cloth seats with embroidered Jeep 65 logo Unique floormats with Jeep 65 logo Unique center console accents AM/FM 6-CD/MP3 radio Unique Jeep 65th Anniversary badge The Grand Cherokee 65th Anniversary Edition is based on the Laredo E package. MSRP for the 4x2 vehicle is $28,755 and $30,725 for the 4x4 edition. Features (including the two engine options) are the same as those for the Commander 65th Anniversary Edition, except for the following: Power sunroof (CommandView Skylights are exclusive to Commander) Unique 17-inch Ronin aluminum wheels with gray accents Unique interior bezels The Jeep Liberty 65th Anniversary Edition is based on the Sport C package. MSRP for the 4x2 special edition is $24,095 and $25,605 for the 4x4 edition. Features include: Power sunroof Monochromatic exterior appearance with body color fascias and fender flares Bright chrome bodyside moldings Unique 16-inch Mechanica aluminum wheels painted sparkle silver Unique cloth sets with embroidered "Jeep 65" logo Unique floormats with Jeep 65 logo Unique console trim Spare tire cover Unique Jeep 65th anniversary logo The Jeep Wrangler 65th Anniversary Special Edition is based on the X package. MSRP is $23,535. Features include: SunRider soft top 15-inch Alcoa aluminum wheels 30" x 9.5" Goodyear Wrangler OWL tires Heavy duty Dana 44 rear axle High pressure gas charged shocks Sirius satellite radio with 1-year free service 7-speaker system including subwoofer Body colored fender flares Full metal doors Fog lamps Unique center stack bezel Unique two-tone seat with embroidered Jeep 65 logo Unique floormats with "Jeep 65" logo Unique 65th anniversary decal Source: Autoblog

Ooh, how could I forgot the classic Camry wagon? That blows my suggestions away. It has two rear windshield wipers; the $h!boxes I posted only have one. The Toyota is clearly far superior.

Legacy GT -- turbos and AWD are fun: Magnum R/T -- V8s and RWD are fun, too:

That's because the guys in charge of the web site are dumb or lazy. The GTI has been available at dealers for weeks.

Autoblog: Mercedes ML63 AMG

Autoblog: 2007 Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee

VOLKSWAGEN SHOWS FIRST U.S.-BOUND ALL-NEW GOLF MODEL AT THIS YEAR’S CHICAGO AUTO SHOW CHICAGO – Volkswagen of America, Inc. has chosen Chicago—one of the German automaker’s best metro markets in the country—to debut Europe’s best-selling car, the new Volkswagen Golf hatchback. While the reveal of the first U.S. specific Golf comes as news to many U.S. car buyers, those who have a genuine affinity for European models already know this fifth-generation Golf is a significant automotive accomplishment. It is hands down the most popular motoring choice for drivers on the other side of the Atlantic, and it is renowned—as its predecessors all have been—for its appeal that transcends both status and social class. To the purist, the Golf epitomizes an authentic German car built for a wide group of buyers who share a stringent set of Teutonic standards for motoring. The new Golf goes on sale this summer in both a two door- and four-door version. Volkswagen said it will announce official pricing later this year. Standard items on all new Golfs will include an advanced ABS braking system, traction control, active headrests (front), front and rear head curtain protection, front side airbags, manual climate control and anti-theft alarm system with remote locking. Throughout Europe and in many parts of the world, Golf owners chose this model for its unique and inherent value. First and foremost, the Golf is an authentic German car. This key trait translates into superior automotive engineering, high build quality, use of top-notch materials, comfort, utility, uncompromised safety and an overriding attention to detail in the design and development of what is simply one the world’s most important and popular cars. The Golf’s model history dates back to 1974, with all-time sales nearing 24 million, making it the second best-selling car in world history. To put that number into perspective, you need to imagine that nearly 2,100 Golfs are built every day around the world. The new Golf shown for the first time in North America at the Chicago auto show is a completely revised version from the Golf sold last year. Major new features abound; however, perhaps the most important technology resides within the confines of the all-new sheet metal and behind the prominent new grill. The new Golf, referred to internally and by enthusiasts as the Mark V for its 5th generation, is a premium car in Germany and throughout the world for sound German engineering and development. This fifth-generation Golf platform is renowned for its solidity and sophistication that make it one of the best-selling models in the world. Built in Wolfsburg, Germany, the home of Volkswagen, the Golf benefits from Volkswagen’s high-tech production process that includes industry-leading robotics in its assembly technology and sequences. Improved from an already solid predecessor, the new Golf records double-digit improvements in its overall structural rigidity. Such firm stature is achieved partially through the use of more high-strength body panels, intelligent design, and the exacting precision that is German automotive engineering. As stated earlier, production also plays a major role: for example, rivets are replaced by advanced laser-welding systems that require a new-generation of robotics and elaborate laser-driven measuring check points. The result is a dramatic increase in precise laser-welded seams, normally reserved for cars in much higher segments of the market. The net benefit of the Golf’s laser-welding process is a class-leading fit and finish, heightened body strength, crash protection, dialed-in driving dynamics, and reduced interior noise—all key components that set the Golf apart as a premium compact car. Drivers of the new Golf will enjoy the model’s first fully independent suspension system that uses a multi-link rear and optimized front axle, a new powerful base engine with a larger displacement of 2.5 liters and five-cylinders generating 150 horsepower and a new optional six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic (five-speed manual standard). Also among the most impressive new driving advancements are a standard high-tech electro-mechanical steering system, an optional advanced electronic stability program (ESP), and new-generation ABS all-disc brakes. The new Golf adds more interior room than ever with a larger hatch and hatch opening. Legroom has also increased in this new version. For added assurance, the new Golf will come with 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years with unlimited mileage and new vehicle warranties including: •Five-year/60,000 mile (whichever occurs first) Powertrain Limited Warranty •Four-year/50,000 mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty with wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after the initial 12 months/12,000 miles •12 year unlimited distance Limited Warranty against corrosion perforation Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen of America and its affiliates employ approximately 3,000 people in the United States and are responsible for the sale and service of Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen products through retail networks comprising in total more than 900 independent U.S. dealers. Source: Autoblog

Well, as it turns out according to Autoblog, you're right in that this isn't an actual Audi concept: Audi's A1 "MINI-killer" a hoax

SUBARU B9 TRIBECA™ ADDS MORE SAFETY, COMFORT AND STYLE FOR 2007 •New Rollover Sensor, Rear Vision Camera and Brake Assist •New B9 Tribeca Special Edition •All B9 Tribeca Models Pre-Wired for XM™ Satellite Radio CHICAGO, Feb. 9, 2006 -- Subaru of America, Inc. revealed the enhanced 2007 B9 Tribeca Progressive SUV today at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. Boasting new safety technology, more refined styling and an improved suspension, the B9 Tribeca is the first-ever Subaru SUV with available seating for seven passengers. The B9 Tribeca features a 245-hp 6-cylinder Boxer engine and a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as its core technology. Subaru is America’s All-Wheel Drive leader, with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on every vehicle in its model line. The 2007 B9 Tribeca is distinguished by a new black grille that emphasizes the silhouette of the aircraft- inspired design. A new B9 Tribeca Special Edition package combines an exclusive mesh grille, chrome-finish wheels and a standard XM Satellite radio package for an MSRP of $1,295. All B9 Tribeca models for 2007 come pre-wired for XM Satellite radio, and all gain a new console-mounted auxiliary jack to connect portable audio players to the vehicle’s audio system. The B9 Tribeca Limited models add the convenience of a new two-position memory feature for the standard power-adjustable front seats. Also for 2007, the front and rear suspensions have been revised to deliver a smoother ride and improved after- shock damping on rough surfaces, without sacrificing the balance and sharpness of the B9 Tribeca driving characteristics. Revisions include revised front and rear strut tuning, adjusted spring rates and rear stabilizer bar rate changes. New Rear Vision Camera, Plus Additional Convenience for 2007 For 2007, all B9 Tribeca Limited models ordered with the optional touch-screen navigation system will now include a rear vision camera. When the driver moves the transmission shift handle into Reverse, the center LCD display will show what the color camera detects within its field of vision behind the vehicle. Reference lines showing 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 meter increments as well as vehicle width (including outside mirrors) help guide the driver as they back up. Customers can now also order the new Reverse Assist Sensors as an optional accessory for any B9 Tribeca model. Ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper detect objects behind the vehicle and emit an audible beep that increases in frequency as the vehicle gets closer to the object behind it. Two new optional accessories further enhance convenience in the 2007 B9 Tribeca. A new remote starter feature allows the owner to start the vehicle remotely from up to 800 feet away. A newly available shade-type retractable rear cargo cover enhances cargo security for the rear compartment. Proven Safety The B9 Tribeca earned the highest rating in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests (2006 model tested) with 5-stars in both the frontal and side-impact crash tests for both the driver and passenger seating positions. These results are in addition to the 4-star rating in the NHTSA tests for rollover resistance. (No SUV to date has earned 5-stars in the rollover test.) For 2007, Subaru has further bolstered B9 Tribeca safety technology, equipping all models with a new Rollover Sensor system that detects a potential vehicle rollover and deploys the standard side curtain airbags. The system also sets the seatbelt pre-tensioners in anticipation of an event. In addition, the new Brake Assist joins the extensive roster of dynamic handling technology, which already includes four-channel ABS brakes, Vehicle Dynamics Control and four-wheel traction control. Brake Assist analyzes the force and stroke velocity on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking. Like all Subaru models, B9 Tribeca delivers a high level of “active safety” owing to the all-weather traction of its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and the low center of gravity afforded by the Subaru boxer engine design. The B9 Tribeca is built at the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant in Lafayette, Indiana. About Subaru of America, Inc. Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes All-Wheel Drive Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru is the only car company that features Symmetrical All-Wheel drive as standard equipment on every vehicle in its product line. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2004. Source: Subaru News Room

Audi A1: Audi Bringing a Mini-killer? We found some sources saying that Audi will bring a Mini killer in 2010 which will be the official successor of the Audi A2, but now called Audi A1. The current issue of German "Autobild" has this story as a main topic including the first pics ever. Being currently in Japan we couldn't get our hands on a copy of it, so we had to rely on some pics from an AutoWeek forum. Make your own mind if it looks reliable. To be honest, we don't hope and think so. Stay tuned for more news! The Audi A1 is said to arrive with 3 doors, 4 seats, in compact size and with the new twincharger engines. Diesel engines will also be available. It seems like that the Audi A1 will get a shooting brake look, maybe similar to the Audi TT Shooting Brake concept shown in Tokyo. Prices are said to be between 15.000 and 20.000 Euro. Link: http://www.germancarblog.com/2006/02/audi-...ini-killer.html

You got to give Toyota this: You can't accuse them of outright copying anyone with the new Tundra (especially the schizophrenic interior...whoa...). I don't think the interior is particularly ugly, just...weird.

Hitless: BMW Gets "Death Penalty" From Search Engine Date posted: 02-09-2006 MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Internet search giant Google temporarily removed BMW's main German Web site, bmw.de, and all its subsites, after the German carmaker was caught cheating to get more "hits" from searchers. Back in 2003, Harvard Law School professor Jonathan Zittrain coined the phrase "Google Death Penalty" to describe the company's method of removing those who break the Internet social contract from its search functions. This week, bmw.de learned what that penalty feels like; the automaker's site was briefly removed from Google, and its all-important PageRank was dropped to 0. Reportedly Google leveled the punishment because BMW's search engine optimizers used an illegal technique called "doorway pages." A doorway page is one created for search engine robots only. It is nothing else but a collection of keywords, invisible to "real" visitors, that redirects them immediately to a working page. In BMW's case, the keyword was the German word for "used cars," repeated dozens of times, to make Google more likely to display it to searchers. BMW removed the pages when the offense came to light, but could not do so soon enough to satisfy Google. Copier maker Ricoh is another company that suffered the same fate for similar reasons. At midweek, both companies' German sites had been restored to Google's good graces, but not before a punishing few days of oblivion. What this means to you: Don't mess with Google, or your company may find itself hitless. Link: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=109242

Yeah, well, I'm still a GTO guy. I will own one someday even if I have to settle for the...*sigh*...LS1.

Hyundai screwed up on their press release, I guess. I'm going to assume they meant $10,915.

Cheap cars no longer mean "cheap cars", it would seem.

2007 HYUNDAI ACCENT GS AND SE MAKE AUTO SHOW DEBUT Two New Three-Door Models Join the Third-Generation Accent Lineup CHICAGO, February 8, 2006 – Hyundai Motor America unveiled the 2007 Accent lineup at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show today, adding the all-new three-door GS and SE models to the recently released four-door GLS sedan. Hyundai’s third-generation Accent model lineup is now complete and provides a strong statement about the company’s commitment to the market for fuel-efficient small cars. Hyundai has sold more than 570,000 Accents since its introduction in 1994, outselling all of its competitors between 2000 and 2005. The new Accent lineup is poised for continued success with unsurpassed standard safety equipment, interior volume and power – plus 35 custom accessories that allow owners to express their individual style.1 The all-new Accent GLS four-door hit showrooms in December 2005, with the new 2007 three-door GS and SE models scheduled for arrival this spring. ACCENT REDEFINES THE ENTRY-CAR SEGMENT “Our all-new Accent lineup is going to continue to set the pace in the entry segment,” said Owen Koh, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. “We welcome the return of Toyota, Nissan and Honda to this segment, and trust that consumers will see the value and quality advantage that our continuous dedication to this segment provides.” The new Accents overcome consumers’ preconceived notions of compromises among performance, comfort and safety attributes in an economy car. All Accents come standard with six airbags, including side air curtains protecting both front and rear seat outboard passengers. The class-leading 110-horsepower 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), sport-tuned suspension and 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/45R16 tires (SE model) enhance the car’s fun-to-drive character. Accent GS and SE have the most interior volume in the three-door segment at 108.1 cu. ft. and more standard features than Chevrolet Aveo and Kia Rio. SLEEK AND CONFIDENT DESIGN Externally, Accent GS and SE reflect Hyundai’s sleek, confident design direction, borrowing from the aerodynamic, clean look of the E3 concept car unveiled at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show. Up front, the vehicle features a bold bodycolor grille and aerodynamic halogen headlights. The Accent SE’s bodycolored exterior mirrors and door handles complement the sporty styling. Sleek character lines continue to the rear of the vehicle. Accent SE’s high-performance V-rated P205/45R16 tires and lightweight five-spoke aluminum wheels provide terrific handling and a big dose of street credibility. A long wheelbase and higher seating positions increase the spacious feeling of the interior. A rear spoiler and wiper are standard on the Accent SE. The Accent three-door is the only model in its class to offer 16-inch alloy wheels from the factory. CLASS-LEADING ENGINE Starting with the 2006 models, all Accents have newfound power under their hoods with a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four-cylinder engine that features four valves per cylinder with CVVT. The DOHC and CVVT combination helps to give the engine a very broad powerband, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. With the better-breathing CVVT, performance has improved. Horsepower now peaks at 110 at 6000 rpm (an almost six percent increase), and torque is 106 lb.-ft. at 4500 rpm. These numbers put the Accent at the top of its class in terms of horsepower. Besides added performance, CVVT also helps the engine operate more cleanly, and for 2007, the Accent is expected to be certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). The latest evolution of the Alpha engine family, the Accent’s powerplant is a tough and technologically advanced unit that features a rigid cast-iron block and lightweight aluminum cylinder head. Engineered for the long haul, the Alpha is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. TWO TRANSMISSION CHOICES For peak performance, all Accents come standard with a five-speed manual transmission that has lower gearing for quicker acceleration and a sportier personality. A new shift pattern that relocates reverse ensures smooth operation. Also available is an optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive lock-up torque converter to maximize fuel economy at highway speeds. The automatic transmission has new levels of hydraulic control for quick, precise shifts. REMARKABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS Accent’s body bending stiffness is up 39 percent from the last generation model. This stiff architecture enables Accent to deliver a comfortable ride and responsive handling thanks to a front MacPherson strut suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers and a coupled torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. A 21.0-mm. diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering and tunes the Accent’s at-the-limit handling for maximum predictability. Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-RPM sensing assist makes for low-effort maneuvering around town, combined with a secure feel at high speed. Accent was tuned to satisfy unique consumer needs. The GLS four-door was tuned for comfort, but still feels agile. The GS three-door has a unique steering rack with increased sporty feel. The SE trim delivers even more road-holding capability with a sport-tuned suspension featuring 24 percent stiffer front spring rate and 11 percent stiffer rear spring rate, larger stabilizer bar (24 mm.), unique strut valving, high performance steering gear and larger wheels and tires. Accent SE delivers a 70 percent increase in roll control over the GLS, even exceeding the roll stiffness of the Hyundai Tiburon SE. To complete the performance package, Accent SE has powerful four-wheel disc brakes with a four-sensor, four-channel Antilock Brake System (ABS). Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) is integrated into the ABS, automatically adjusting braking force front to rear based on vehicle loading conditions. CLASS-ABOVE INTERIOR VOLUME The Accent three-door’s larger silhouette pays comfort dividends inside, with the most interior volume (passenger and cargo) in its class. In fact, the Accent three-door is classified as a “compact car” – not a subcompact, which is the classification given by the U.S. government to competitors including the Toyota Yaris and Scion xA. In fact, at 108.1 cubic feet, the Accent bests the new Honda Civic coupe in total interior volume by a whopping 12.9 cubic feet, providing an unexpectedly spacious feel. The driver’s seating position has been raised two inches compared to the prior generation Accent, for better comfort and the higher eyepoint that most drivers prefer. The 2007 Accent GS and SE feature class-leading cargo volume of 15.9 cubic feet. The Accent three-door even has 11.6 percent more interior volume than the Toyota Yaris and 4.1 percent more than the Toyota Corolla. For audiophiles, the available 172-watt AM/FM/CD audio system includes built-in equalizer, large-format head unit with easy-to-use controls and a total of six speakers positioned throughout the interior; one in each front door, a pair in the rear and two high-mounted tweeters to help add audio clarity and detail. A more powerful AM/FM/6-CD changer premium audio system is available on SE and delivers 220 watts. UNSURPASSED SAFETY FEATURES The new Accent lineup perfectly illustrates Hyundai’s devotion to passenger safety. Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety indicates that vehicles equipped with the combination of seat-mounted side air bags and head-protecting side air curtains experience a 45 percent reduction in fatalities in side impact collisions. That significant life-saving potential is the reason why every Hyundai Accent has a total of six airbags working in concert with high-tech passenger restraint systems to provide a comprehensive line of defense in frontal and side collisions. There are two advanced frontal airbags, plus two front seat-mounted side-impact airbags. Two roof-mounted side-curtain airbags help protect the front and outboard rear passengers in side impacts. The Accent’s complete suite of airbags is standard—a significant life-saving advantage over competitors like Chevrolet Aveo, Scion xA and Toyota Yaris. Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags are extra cost options on the xA and Yaris, and side-curtain airbags are not available on Aveo, and are optional on xA and Yaris. In low-speed impacts, the Accent’s five-mph front and rear bumpers help minimize damage. In higher-energy collisions, its steel unibody structure is engineered to dissipate crash energy as its crumple zones deform, while bodyside reinforcements help maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment. Hood buckling creases and safety stops help control the deformation of the hood in a frontal collision. There’s an energy absorbing steering column, and all five seating positions feature three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests. The rear head restraints are shingle-style for improved visibility. The front seatbelts have pretensioners and load limiters. A Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in the rear seat area provides a safe and secure place for kids. PERSONALIZATION Vehicle personalization is a growing trend, increasingly important to new car buyers. Hyundai plans to offer more than 35 Accent accessories at launch, as dealer- or port-installed add-ons, enabling buyers to make their Accent unique. The accessories will include a ground effects kit, cold air intake system, metallic shift knobs, aluminum pedals and doorsills, iPOD holder, LED interior light kit and many others. Factory-installed personalization options include a 220-watt, AM/FM/6-CD changer premium audio system with six speakers and Accent’s first power sunroof. “There is a renewed interest in tuning and accessorizing compact cars, and Accent defies the laws of economy in this very competitive segment,” said John Krafcik, vice president, Product Development and Strategic Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “The Accent GS and SE are fun-to-drive, affordable sport compacts right out of the box – with more personalization accessories available than the Scion xA.” QUALITY AND VALUE Taken in total, the Accent’s many strengths make it the clear value leader in its segment. Unsurpassed safety technologies give it an important edge, and the Accent delivers more standard features than Aveo or Rio. It’s got a lower base price than Yaris and more interior passenger volume, making it remarkably comfortable, and it has the most powerful engine in the class. The Accent GS will be priced at $10,915, carrying on the Hyundai tradition of exceptional value. Add in the advantage of America’s Best Warranty™, including five years and 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and choosing Accent becomes even simpler. ACCENT GS – THE PERFECT ENTRY-LEVEL CAR In keeping with Hyundai’s high-value approach to standard equipment, the Accent GS not only looks good, it also has a remarkable array of desirable features. Large, legible analog instrumentation keeps the driver informed, while a tilt steering wheel and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat with fold-down armrest, reclining rear seat and power steering insure long-haul comfort. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including the front center console, driver storage tray, door storage pockets in the front doors and a rear storage tray. Two cupholders are ideally situated between the driver and passenger for easy reach. A 60/40-split fold-down rear seatback makes it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum effectiveness. The rear roof-mounted micro antenna is aerodynamic, flexible and improves signal strength. Standard features are comprehensive and not typically found in this segment, including two-speed variable intermittent wipers, rear spoiler, cabin air filtration, rear window defroster, tachometer, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and remote hood and fuel filler door releases. ACCENT SE – TIBURON APPEAL AND PERFORMANCE, ACCENT PRICING The sport-oriented Accent SE takes value in an exciting new direction. SE features air conditioning, power windows with front-illuminated switches, driver’s window auto-down feature, illuminated vanity mirrors, windshield shade band, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert and heated power-adjustable exterior mirrors. On the outside, the 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/45VR16 tires deliver road-holding capability, and fog lights keep the driver’s path illuminated in adverse weather. The SE trim is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, metallic interior accents and sporty cloth seats. Additional storage is available with the seatback pockets. To complete the driving experience, the Accent SE features a sport-tuned suspension with unique springs, strut valving, roll bar and steering gear – delivering in total a 70 percent increase in roll stiffness over the GLS. A power sunroof and a 220-watt premium audio system with AM/FM/cassette/six-disc in-dash CD changer with equalizer and amplifier are optional. ACCENT GLS – THE COMPLETE PACKAGE The well-equipped 2007 Accent four-door comes in a single GLS trim level with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. GLS trim includes a wide range of features, including several items that are either optional or unavailable on competitive vehicles in the segment, including a powerful 1.6-liter CVVT engine, 172-watt six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with equalizer, air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel and driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors. There are a total of six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags. Carpeted floor mats are optional. The Premium Package includes ABS, power windows with illuminated switches, driver’s window auto-down feature, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert and heated power-adjustable exterior mirrors. The Premium Sport Package adds all the equipment in the premium package plus 15-inch alloy wheels with 195/55VR15 tires. WARRANTY The all-new Hyundai Accent lineup is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Accent buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages. Source: Autoblog

The Daily Auto Insider Wednesday, February 8, 2006 February 2006 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said it is investigating reports of fires starting underneath the driver's seat of some models of the Dodge Durango sport-utility vehicle, the Associated Press reported. NHTSA said it had received complaints of five vehicle fires starting underneath the driver's seat, three of which happened while the vehicle was parked with the ignition switch off. The vehicles are not equipped with power driver seat adjustments. There were no injuries associated with the reported fires. Link: http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?se...rticle_id=10648 --- (Resisting urge to make bad pun.)

Hmmm....I like it better as a coupe.

It does looks bad but I'll give it the benefit of the doubt and assume the harsh lighting is making it look so cheap. The idea of a fast family hauler is strangely appealing, though.

...and completely bland it up? What would be the point? The thing I (and I guess their buyers) like about Nissan is that they give you an option if you don't want to settle for a complete snorer of a vehicle. I'd take the Quest over the DCX or GM vans on looks alone.