Variance

BMW Reports Best January on Record with Increase of 12 Percent; MINI Brand Sales also Reports Best January Ever WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported sales of 22,218 vehicles in January 2006, an increase of 12 percent over the 19,764 vehicles reported in January 2005. BMW Brand Sales BMW reported sales of 19,274 automobiles and Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs), up 14 percent compared to the 16,847 vehicles reported the same month last year. It was the strongest January on record, despite low inventories that follow the annual holiday closures at most of BMW's productions plants. BMW's plant in Spartanburg, S.C. reopened January 9th following an extended construction closure while a new single-line production system was installed. BMW Automobile Sales BMW's monthly automobile sales were up 23 percent, to 15,455 versus 12,611 in January 2005. BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales Sales of BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles decreased 10 percent in January 2006. BMW reported sales of 3,819 vehicles compared to 4,236 vehicles sold in the same month of 2005. Certified Pre-owned BMW reported a 21 percent increase in sales of Certified Pre-Owned vehicles sold in January 2006, for 5,761 vehicles compared to 4,745 vehicles in 2005. MINI Brand MINI Automobiles MINI USA reported sales of 2,944 vehicles in January 2006, up slightly from the 2,917 sold in January 2005 for the best January since the brand went on sale in the U.S. in 2002. BMW GROUP IN AMERICA BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the ROLLS-ROYCE brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW passenger car centers, 327 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 148 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger car dealers, and 25 ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at: http://www.bmwgroupna.com http://www.bmwusa.com http://www.bmwmotorradusa.com http://www.miniusa.com http://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com BMW Car Sales Report for January 2006 2006 2005 January 15,455 12,611 Year-to-Date 15,455 12,611 Model January Year-to-Date January Year-to-Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 325i (E90) 4,152 4,152 0 0 325i (E46) 11 11 3,086 3,086 325Ci 201 201 322 322 325Ci convertible 270 270 363 363 325i sports wagon 4 4 92 92 325xi (E90) 1,556 1,556 0 0 325xi (E46) 0 0 848 848 325xi sports wagon (E90) 129 129 0 0 325xi sports wagon (E46) 0 0 124 124 330i (E90) 896 896 0 0 330i (E46) 2 2 809 809 330Ci 148 148 259 259 330Ci convertible 288 288 311 311 330xi (E90) 678 678 0 0 330xi (E46) 0 0 437 437 M3 121 121 259 259 M3 convertible 90 90 123 123 3 Series 8,546 8,546 7,033 7,033 Z4 2.5i roadster (US) 77 77 310 310 Z4 3.0i roadster (US) 49 49 139 139 Z4 126 126 449 449 525i (E60) 1,022 1,022 1,226 1,226 525xi (E60) 579 579 0 0 530i (E60) 901 901 1,395 1,395 530xi (E60) 929 929 0 0 530xi sports wagon (E60) 282 282 0 0 545i (E60) 6 6 657 657 550i (E60) 440 440 0 0 M5 (E60) 522 522 0 0 5 Series 4,681 4,681 3,278 3,278 645Ci 21 21 253 253 650i coupe 235 235 0 0 645Ci convertible 16 16 408 408 650i convertible 364 364 0 0 6 Series 636 636 661 661 745i 0 0 345 345 745Li 0 0 790 790 750i 289 289 0 0 750Li 1,131 1,131 0 0 760i 4 4 9 9 760Li 42 42 45 45 7 Series 1,466 1,466 1,189 1,189 Z8 Alpina 0 0 1 1 Z8 0 0 1 1 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (light trucks) Sales Report for January 2006 2006 2005 January 3,819 4,236 Year-to-Date 3,819 4,236 Model January Year-to-Date January Year-to-Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 X3 2.5i 49 49 394 394 X3 3.0i 1,339 1,339 1,417 1,417 X3 1,388 1,388 1,811 1,811 X5 3.0i (US) 1,900 1,900 1,731 1,731 X5 4.4i (US) 460 460 626 626 X5 4.8is (US) 71 71 68 68 X5 2,431 2,431 2,425 2,425 MINI Sales Report for January 2006 2006 2005 January 2,944 2,917 Year-to-Date 2,944 2,917 Model January Year-to-Date January Year-to-Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 MINI Cooper 1,103 1,103 1,087 1,087 MINI Cooper S 1,139 1,139 982 982 MINI Cooper Convertible 274 274 460 460 MINI Cooper S Convertible 428 428 388 388 Total MINI 2,944 2,944 2,917 2,917 Link: http://prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?A...04272666&EDATE=

Hybrid Escalade to be offered in fall of 2007 By JAMIE LAREAU AND RICHARD TRUETT | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS AutoWeek | Published 02/01/06, 11:19 am et General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner confirmed that Cadillac will get its first hybrid vehicle in the fall of 2007 with the 2008 Escalade SUV. Wagoner made the announcement Wednesday at the Baltimore transmission plant during a ceremony to name the plant as the builder of GM’s hybrid transmissions. The hybrid version of the Escalade will use a new transmission made by GM’s Allison division. The two-mode hybrid system will be similar to what GM will use in the hybrid version of a Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs. The hybrid Escalade will get a 25 percent gain in fuel economy, meaning the vehicle could get close to 30 mpg on the highway. The supplier for the nickel-metal batteries to be used in the Escalade will be Panasonic EV, a Japanese company. GM is spending $118 million to tool up for production of the hybrid transmissions. Link: http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...E/60201002/1041

Chrysler Group Reports Sales of 155,465 Vehicles, a Five Percent Increase for January 2006 Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Sales of 12,469 Vehicles, a Three Percent Increase for January 2006 NEW YORK, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DaimlerChrysler AG (NYSE: DCX), the third largest U.S. auto maker, today reported total group sales of 167,934 passenger vehicles in the U.S. for January 2006, a 5 percent increase compared to January 2005. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted. Chrysler Group, which consists of the Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge brands, posted sales of 155,465 vehicles in the U.S., an increase of 5 percent. Following global sales growth of 4.7 percent to 2.83 million units in 2005, Chrysler Group will launch 10 all-new vehicles in 2006, the most aggressive product launch in company history, while introducing some of the most fuel- efficient vehicles to date. Chrysler Group will take its best-selling Dodge brand to international markets in 2006, beginning with the all-new 2007 Dodge Caliber. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) posted sales of 12,469 units, up three percent compared to the same month last year. On the heels of recording twelve consecutive years of sales growth in 2005, MBUSA will introduce a new generation of its flagship model line, the 2007 S-Class, next month. Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA and Chrysler Group will be announced later today in separate press releases issued by the groups. January 2006 and January 2005 both had 24 selling days. DaimlerChrysler AG U.S. Sales Summary Through January 2006 Month Sales % Sales CYTD % Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change CHRYSLER GROUP 155,465 148,111 5% 155,465 148,111 5% MERCEDES-BENZ USA 12,469 12,101 3% 12,469 12,101 3% DAIMLERCHRYSLER 167,934 160,212 5% 167,934 160,212 5% Selling Days 24 24 24 24 Link: http://prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?A...04272564&EDATE=

That was some impressive driving, I must say. I was also strangely attracted to that Eurodancepop music in the background.

WHISPERS: Chrysler Crossfire Production May Be Cut by as Much as Two-Thirds Date posted: 02-01-2006 FRANKFURT — A German newspaper is reporting that Wilhelm Karmann, the company that makes the Chrysler Crossfire for DaimlerChrysler, plans to cut jobs as part of a two-thirds reduction in Crossfire production. A DaimlerChrysler spokesman in Germany, quoted by the Dow Jones News Service, denied the report, calling it "an extremely pessimistic forecast that we don't accept." Nevertheless, the spokesman did acknowledge that some reduction in Crossfire production will take place. The Crossfire went into production in 2003, and it is intended to have a five-year life cycle, the news service notes. What this means to you: This is where the synergy between DaimlerBenz and Chrysler could have gone if not for the groundbreaking designs of the 300, Charger and Magnum. Link: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=109128 ----- This emoticon represents how shocked I am at this news:

Bridgestone Firestone Lets Consumers Test-Drive Tires for 30 Days Date posted: 02-01-2006 NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As part of its effort to win back customers, Bridgestone Firestone is beginning a unique "Buy & Try 30-Day Guarantee" on its tires, starting today. "If after 30 days or less you are not satisfied with the performance of our tires, we will refund your money," said Phil Pacsi, executive director of consumer tire marketing. The tire company has been battling a bad reputation ever since initiating the largest tire recall in transportation history in 2000 due to problems with blowouts. Fallout from the recall continues to crop up, with the latest being last week in Texas when a jury slapped Ford Motor Co. with a $29 million judgment against the company for an accident involving a Mazda sport-utility with aged Firestone ATX tires. Firestone had previously settled the case, but was mentioned prominently in news coverage of the Ford verdict. The Buy & Try 30-Day Guarantee does not apply to tires supplied as original equipment on new vehicles or select performance or run-flat tires. What this means to you: Bridgestone Firestone says it hopes this guarantee will help consumers overcome their fear of buying its tires… er, tires in general. Maybe this will become the standard in the tire business. Link: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=109131

The Daily Auto Insider Tuesday, January 31, 2006 January 2006 At the Houston Auto Show, GM executives told the Dow Jones that demand from dealers for their new full-sized vehicles exceeded the automaker’s expectation. CEO Rick Wagoner, praised the fuel efficiency of GM’s large vehicles. Both GM and Ford suffered large market loss to foreign competitors as the SUV and pickup market slowed last year. Nonetheless, GM is pinning its hopes on the launch this year of its GMT 900 line of full-size trucks and SUVs. GM says these new models will encompass about a third of its sales in 2006. Wagoner told the Dow it's too early to predict how well the new large utility vehicles would sell but characterized the market for such vehicles as robust. He added that GM has a competitive advantage in the segment and doesn’t want to abandon it. Wagoner also pointed to GM's recent decision to reduce sticker prices on almost its entire lineup of vehicles, including the new full-size vehicles. He said dealers have responded favorably to the decision to adjust its pricing strategy and move away from the incentives that customers have come to expect the past several years. GM posted a fourth-quarter loss of $4.8 billion, and a full-year loss figure of $8.6 billion. This represents the first annual loss for the automaker since 1992. Losses in GM's core North American market totaled $5.6 billion, and the company has said a restructuring of its North American operations is its top priority this year. Link: http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?se...rticle_id=10616

!!! Dude, what happened??

If the new ES350 attracts a lot of customers, you'll likely get your wish for better incentives and rates.

Automatic to automatic, no but as Fly said, it's barely better: I-4 Accord: 24/34 With a manual, I-4 city mileage goes up to 26. I will give Honda credit for getting V6 power with I-4 economy but still, compared to other hybrids it's somewhat disappointing.

No but that's my point: Improved (according to Honda) hybrid system + same EPA test + 88 lb weight increase = better emissions but 4 city mpg and 3 hwy mpg drop in fuel economy?? In comparison, the Lexus 400h AWD suffers only a 2/1 drop in MPG with a 175 lb weight gain over the FWD version.

This I'm aware of but personally I wouldn't be knocking the car so much if it hadn't suffered such a drastic drop in economy compared to the previous one.

Yes, in fact... Prius: 60/51 Insight (CVT): 57/56 Camry Hybrid (new): 43/37 Escape Hybrid (FWD): 36/31 RX400h (FWD): 28/33 Highlander Hybrid (FWD): 28/33 Accord Hybrid: 25/34 Silverado Hybrid: 18/21 Congrats, Accord Hybrid. You've beaten the Silverado Hybrid. You're only the worst hybrid car at fuel-saving. Not saying much as the worst hybrid is mated with a V8 engine.

I think "ain't" is a nationwide thing and I ain't gonna lie, ama regular user of "ain't".

High performance hybrid provides lower emissions with new features and additional refinement for 2006 TORRANCE, Calif. 02/01/2006 -- The redesigned 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid is debuting at dealerships nationwide with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $30,990, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The Accord Hybrid receives an extensive face lift for 2006 as well as a host of new features and enhancements, highlighted by a better emissions rating (now AT-PZEV/Tier-2 bin2, previously ULEV-2/Tier-2 bin5), new exterior and interior styling, a power moonroof and more. Now in its second year, the Accord Hybrid gains the same improvements as all 2006 Accords and more exclusive features that help to further differentiate it from other Accord models. Additionally, several new standard features have been added including Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and a temporary-use spare tire. The Accord Hybrid utilizes Honda's third-generation of the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system in combination with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology to deliver high levels of fuel efficiency for a V6 engine - on par with a 4-cylinder mid-size sedan - along with highly responsive and powerful V6 performance. The 3.0-liter V6 engine with IMA is rated at 253 horsepower (SAE net rev. 8/04*) and achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 25/34 city/highway miles per gallon. "We've listened to our customers and added the features they told us they wanted," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "The Accord Hybrid is unique in that it delivers performance and environmental responsibility without compromising one for the other." Safety for Everyone In keeping with Honda's industry-leading 'Safety for Everyone' initiative, all Accord Hybrids also come equipped with a comprehensive list of advanced safety features including dual-stage, dual-threshold driver and front passenger airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, first and second row side curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Like all V6-equipped Accords, the Accord Hybrid receives Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) for the 2006 model year. Exclusive Exterior New for 2006, the exterior of the Accord Hybrid has several enhancements that further distinguish it from other Accords. A rear deck lid spoiler and specially-designed alloy wheels are unique to Accord Hybrid and contribute to its improved aerodynamic performance. Other unique features include heated side mirrors with built-in turn signals, antenna, and an exclusive taillight design with an upper clear lens. Two exclusive exterior colors are available: Silver Frost Metallic and Premium White Pearl. Premium Interior The Accord Hybrid comes equipped with a high level of premium features and equipment including a leather interior with heated front seats, dual zone automatic climate control, 8-way power driver's seat, XM® Satellite Radio® (includes free activation and 3 months free service, excluding Alaska and Hawaii) and a 6-disc CD changer. New for 2006, a power moonroof is standard equipment on all Accord Hybrids. The Accord Hybrid's instrument panel incorporates an exclusive meter display that shows key operating indicators of the IMA system, including the state of the IMA battery charge, the level of IMA motor assist or regeneration, and a light to indicate Idle Stop mode. An "ECO" light indicates when the vehicle is achieving a high level of fuel economy. Lightweight and Efficient Construction To assist with overall fuel efficiency and maintain precise and responsive handling, the Accord Hybrid utilizes a number of exclusive weight saving features including a lightweight aluminum hood and bumper beams (front and rear), along with a magnesium engine head cover and dual-stage intake manifold. Other fuel saving features include an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system and an efficient dual scroll "hybrid" air conditioning compressor. High Performance Hybrid Powertrain The 3.0-liter V6 engine with IMA is rated at 253 horsepower (SAE net rev. 8/04*), which is 9 more horsepower than the gasoline-only 3.0-liter V6 Accord and 87 more horsepower than a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Accord. Meanwhile, the Accord Hybrid's EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25/34 miles per gallon city/highway is similar to a 4-cylinder Accord and 5 miles per gallon better in both city and highway driving than the gasoline-only V6 Accord. In addition to being the most powerful and fuel efficient Accord available, the Accord Hybrid also has the added distinction of being among the cleanest Accords ever, achieving California Air Resources Board AT-PZEV certification and EPA Tier-2 bin2 certification. The Accord Hybrid produces 253 horsepower* at 6000 rpm and 232 lb-ft. of torque* at 5000 rpm. The IMA system's 12-kilowatt, high-output, electric motor contributes torque during hard acceleration and recaptures kinetic energy generated during deceleration and braking for storage in the advanced nickel-metal hydride battery pack. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard. Pricing Details Pricing starts at $30,990 for the Accord Hybrid. Models equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Activation have a suggested retail price of $32,290. Destination and handling charges for all 2006 Honda vehicles are $550. Link: http://hondanews.com/CatID1000?mid=2006013162849&mime=asc ------ Please note the plunge in EPA estimated fuel economy: 2005 Accord Hybrid: 29/37 mpg 2006 Accord Hybrid: 25/34 mpg Which may be partly thanks to a rise in weight: 2005 Accord Hybrid: 3501 lb 2006 Accord Hybrid: 3589 lb So while the new Accord Hybrid may be cleaner (emissions-wise), it seems to be less economical.

Looks nice and tough...as a truck should. I'm guessing this is pretty much what the next Silverado will look like.

I've never noticed anyone from Connecticut speak with any discernable dialect or accent. I'm African-American and I can't be bothered with Ebonics, either. I just don't feel right talking in it.

They're probably using "Microsoft Word: Thug Edition" :

You need a debit/credit card, for starters... I donated $15 a little while ago.

I think he was saying there's no reason to think that Kia couldn't evolve from being a somewhat unimpressive brand to being very competitive as Toyota and Hyundai have done. His examples just happened to be Asian.

GM, Ford US sales slide continues in January By Poornima Gupta Mon Jan 30, 11:28 AM ET DETROIT (Reuters) - General Motors Corp. (NYSE:GM - news) and Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:F - news) lost additional U.S sales and market share to Japanese rivals in January, analysts said, as consumers' shift toward more fuel-efficient vehicles left Detroit's top automakers in the slow lane. Wall Street expects GM and Ford, whose U.S. share has declined steadily over the last decade, to report sales slides of as much as 10 percent when the industry releases results on Wednesday. Toyota Motor Corp.(7203.T) is seen posting a gain of about 10 percent. "Imports and transplants have eaten Detroit's lunch and are beginning to nibble at its dinner as well," Burnham Securities analyst David Healy said. Weaker sales will be the latest setback for GM, which last week reported a net loss of $4.8 billion, its fifth straight quarterly loss. GM's automotive unit lost $1.5 billion in the quarter, driven by large losses in North America. Ford is also struggling on home ground. Last week it said it planned to cut up to 30,000 jobs and close 14 plants in North America to align production capacity with demand as it continued to lose market share. The combined monthly U.S. market share for Detroit's traditional Big Three automakers fell to 54.4 percent in January from 57 percent a year earlier, according to research firm Edmunds.com. "This month, compact cars and compact SUVs are selling particularly well, while sales of trucks, luxury cars and large cars are suffering," said Jesse Toprak, executive director of industry analysis for Edmunds.com. U.S. automakers' sales declined through 2005 in the face of plunging demand for traditional truck-based SUVs, their one-time cash cows, as gasoline prices soared. Analysts see the trend continuing in this month. Sales across the industry on a seasonally-adjusted basis are expected to be in the range of 16 million to 16.5 million, down from a rate of 17.1 million rate in December and nearly flat to slightly higher than the 16.3 million rate a year ago, Wall Street analysts said. The continuing decline in demand for SUVs comes as GM launches its GMT 900 series, a line-up of redesigned SUVs, including the Tahoe, and pickup trucks. The automaker is banking on the new products, which are slightly more fuel-efficient than the current models, to stem its sales slide. Ford is also introducing the redesigned 2007 Ford Expedition SUV this year. "The GMT-900 version of the Chevy Tahoe is officially for sale now, but it is difficult to gauge how strong a start the vehicle is having," Bear Stearns analyst Peter Nesvold said on Monday. "Nonetheless, early results will be highly scrutinized, given how much is riding on the T-900." DaimlerChrysler AG's (NYSE:DCX - news)(DCXGn.DE) Chrysler arm, the lone Detroit automaker to post higher U.S. sales in 2005, could see customer purchases of its vehicles slide between 2 percent and 5 percent in January, according to analysts. Japanese automaker Honda Motor Co. Ltd. (7267.T), on the other hand, is expected to post double-digit sales increases for the month, while analysts said Nissan Motor Co.'s (7201.T) sales may decline slightly. Link: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060130/bs_nm/...wN5bnN1YmNhdA--

Maybe they'll pass their profits onto their multitude of loyal customers in the form of lower fuel prices. :AH-HA_wink: Seriously though, what can I say except I wish I had stock in Exxon (or any oil company these days).

2007 Toyota Camry Ready to spoil a new round of frugal family buyers — and keep its best-selling title. by Bengt Halvorson (2006-01-30) What's probably the most common car onU.S. streets isn't a Chevy or a Ford, but a Toyota. The Camry has been the best-selling car in America for eight of the past nine years. More than ten million Camrys have been sold since 1983, when the model was first introduced, and the majority of those have been sold in the U.S. With each new Camry much improved, and an even better value it seems, expectations for the new '07 model are high. There's also the issue that the Camry is just so darned good and efficient at being a comfortable, economical, trouble-free sedan that it has come to be viewed as an appliance, and has gathered descriptions, according to Toyota execs, like "bread-and-butter," and "dad's car." And driving a Camry sort of lends itself to an "I don't care about cars" anonymity. Is the Camry boring, or is it just too darned good? That was the challenge: how to bring more style - and a little more driving enjoyment - to the Camry without alienating any of Camry's very loyal customer base. To start, the team behind the latest Camry sought to add much more upscale character to the car. While that was also said to be a goal of the last-generation Camry, it's really worked this time. The Camry's exterior shape emphasizes sharp surface lines and a multi-leveled hood and rear decklid, along with an emphasis on continuity that's echoed inside as well. As expected, the new Camry is highly influenced by the current Avalon, introduced last year, and also inherits various design cues and features from upmarket Lexus models. If you squint, on the outside you can even see a little influence from BMW. Similar dimensions, reapportioned While the dimensions aren't markedly different than those of the current Camry it will replace, the proportions have been changed, too, to make it more rakish and flowing, with a more sophisticated headlight and grille treatment, a softer-sloping rear pillar, and the wheels pushed farther out to the corners, increasing wheelbase by about two inches. Versus the outgoing Camry, these changes help stretch the usable cabin space, too, with improved legroom front and back and a revised driving position. The instrument panel area boasts an extensive redesign, too - it's set rather low, and also seems to wrap around more effectively, emphasizing horizontal lines that continue to the doors - while the rest of the interior has some more subtle changes in packaging. The center stack and console - with shift knob and storage bin side by side - appear quite wide, separating the driver and passenger areas, and remind us of the Lexus GS. The instrument panel design is also all-new, with the self-lit Optitron gauges that have graced the Lexus lineup for a few years, and controls that generally look more like those in a luxury car than a basic sedan. Interior space is one of the more important selling points for mid-size sedan buyers, and that's been rethought. All Camrys get a revised layout; the front seats have a new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) design for better neck support in accidents, and the seatbacks have been redesigned. Heated leather seats are available on SE, XLE, and Hybrid models, while new cloth upholstery, treated with Sericin, from silkworm fibers, is offered on XLE. On CE, LE, and Hybrid models, the rear seats are split 60/40 and fold down, while XLE models get a 40/20/40-split reclining rear seat with armrest and pass-through. On all models, the steering wheel now gets tilt and telescope adjustability to better accommodate varied driver sizes. And to accommodate varied needs, there are also plenty of Camry variations offered - everything from a basic, frugal four-cylinder, manual-transmission version to one with a powerful V-6 and a truly Lexus-like level of luxury features, to a new, much anticipated, Hybrid model for those who are willing to spend a little extra money. 43-mpg Hybrid model That's the big news. Toyota has installed its Hybrid Synergy Drive in the Camry; it pairs an eco-tuned, Atkinson-cycle (high-compression), 147-hp version of the 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with a 105-kW electric motor. The motor can deliver up to 203 lb-ft of instantaneous torque, while the combined powertrain makes 192 hp. Camry Hybrids are packaged much the same way as the other models - with similar interior and trunk space. That alone is evidence of there's evidence of a good design, as engineers had to find places for bulky elements like the hybrid transaxle, inverter, and battery. Hybrids also get a slightly different appearance, including blue-tinted headlight reflectors, LED taillamps, and a matte-chrome grille in front that flows into the fascia. The combined front-wheel-drive powertrain delivers up to 192 hp. The Hybrid carries a PZEV emissions rating. EPA fuel economy for the Camry Hybrid will be 43 city, 37 highway, which makes for a range of around 700 miles from its 17.1-gallon fuel tank. And it drives much like a standard Camry, which we'll get to in more detail just below. As for the Camry's standard powertrain, there's no big surprise - it's a 158-hp, 2.4-liter in-line DOHC four that's a revision of the existing base engine, and it should boast especially low maintenance costs. The four-cylinder gets various design improvements. A new 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 replaces the 3.3-liter V-6 as optional, and makes 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than the 3.3. The 3.5 is basically the same engine as is offered in the Avalon (and also now offered in the RAV4), with dual variable valve timing, plus stepless cooling fan for reduced overall noise, and an active, fluid-filled engine mount system that is tuned to be most effective at idle speed. In addition, the alternator uses an acoustically decoupled pulley to help smooth out spikes as accessories cycle on. The V-6 is mated to an all-new six-speed automatic transmission, while the four-cylinder goes with either a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. According to Toyota officials, the five-speed automatic is the same transmission as offered with the outgoing Camry V-6, while the all-new six-speed boasts a 20-percent reduction in number of parts versus the five-speed. Shifting for the six-speed is done through a gated shifter that's much like what's been offered on Lexus products - you can move the knob over to an 'S' position and then simply go up or down a gear at a time. Comfy ride with better handling Toyota engineers thoroughly revised the steering and suspension, aiming to keep the Camry's ride comfort while improving handling. The steering is now all-electric, with true variable assist, and it's tuned to behave quite differently with each powertrain arrangement. The front suspension uses a subframe, for the strut and control arm arrangement, and in back there are struts and a multi-link setup, with a hollow stabilizer bar. If you don't have your mind made up as to which Camry you want, you might have to take a few test drives, as there's never been such a range in feel between the base four-cylinder car and the top-line V-6 luxury XLE and sporty SE. There was a very discernable difference suspension-wise between the four-cylinder LE, the V-6 XLE, and the V-6 SE we drove. Though the weight between the engines is quite close, there are differences in the way that the steering and suspension are tuned, we were told. The standard four-cylinder engine has plenty of power for most situations, and even enough low-end torque for quick takeoffs from a standing start, as long as you don't have a full load. Despite its large displacement for a four-cylinder, it's also one of the most refined fours offered on any vehicle, and if you're puttering along with traffic with the sound system cranked you might have trouble telling the difference from the six. If you appreciate sports-car power in a family sedan, the V-6 is the ticket (or, possibly, the way to a ticket). It has far more usable power than the engine is replaces, and pushes the Camry into a new category of performance. Toyota claims a 0-60 time of about seven seconds (slightly slower than the RAV4 with the same engine), but it feels considerably faster. The six-speed automatic functions flawlessly, and isn't flustered by the multi-gear, partial throttle downshifts that cause some competitors to temporarily cough up their throttle map (i.e., hesitate then surge). The new V-6 is extremely refined, with an almost indistinguishable idle, and under moderate throttle revs almost silently through the gears like a vehicle with the Lexus badge. Stomp your right foot down, and you'll hear just a little bit of raspy exhaust tone. In the Hybrid model, Toyota opted to tune the Camry's system more for economy than all-out performance (you can expect more of a performance emphasis from Lexus models), as most Camry buyers tend toward the practical and frugal side of the car-buying spectrum. You can expect decent performance, though; the Camry hybrid isn't particularly sprightly off the line, but it does offer great passing power - better than the four, though not quite as athletic as the six - once the gasoline engine revs up with the motor in full assist. In low-speed stop-and-go driving, Hybrid drivers stand to gain the most, as the Camry can creep along with the electric motor only for a considerable time. And for those all-important numbers, the Camry's hybrid powertrain offers 0-60 in about 9.4 seconds. Expect the four-cylinder to be around the ten-second mark while the V-6 will slot in at around seven seconds (slightly higher than the new RAV4 with the same engine) Like we said, you might notice a pretty significant difference in the way Camrys drive with the three powertrains. It's not surprising that we found the basic four-cylinder Camry and the sporty SE V-6 to be the most balanced when flogged along a curvy road, with the XLE to be a little less versed for fast driving. The Camry Hybrid, burdened by about 400 pounds of extra mass, doesn't exactly feel tossable, but it's far from clumsy. One bodystyle, wide range of equipment As we hinted to above, the '07 Camry will be offered with a wide range of equipment, in base CE, LE, sporty SE, or luxurious XLE trims. The more seriously sporty SE grade now gets stiffer springs and dampers, a solid anti-roll bar, and stabilizing braces underhood and behind the rear seatback, along with an aerodynamic package and other performance cues. Additionally, a stabilizing brace is added to the underfloor, and a V-brace behind the rear seatback (which doesn't fold down on SE). The top-of-the-line XLE emphasizes Lexus-like interior appointments and features, including dual-zone climate control with ionizer and filter, and upholstery treated with silk extract. A new-generation navigation system will be optional, as will both a smart-key system and a remote engine starter will be available. Standard features on the XLE will include a moonroof, real woodgrain, and reclining rear seats. There's also an in-dash multi-function trip computer display on XLE and Hybrid models. All Camrys now get MP3 compatibility and digital sound processing, along with the Auto Sound Levelizer, plus standard auxiliary input jacks for portable audio. The standard AM/FM/CD has six speakers and 160 watts and has very respectable sound, while the top system is an eight-speaker, 440-watt JBL Premium system with four-CD in-dash changer and Bluetooth telephony. There's also a new-generation voice-activated navigation system available, integrated with the top sound system. Again depending on the trim level, there are steering wheel controls for some of the audio and telephony functions. A Smart Key system is now also available on the Camry - standard on Hybrids and available on XLEs - allowing hands-free unlocking and keyless starting from inside the vehicle. A remote engine starter is optional and functions with the Smart Key system. VSC stability control is available on all Camrys, while Hybrid models get a standard integrated VDIM system, the automaker's more proactive, integrated stability control system. With a setup similar to that in the Highlander Hybrid, VDIM interlaces with the electric power steering and most of the electronic aids, including the ABS and standard stability control, to anticipate a potential loss of control and allow smooth adjustments - such as changing the steering boost - to help regain control. ABS and Brake Assist will be standard on all models, as will seat-mounted side airbags, rear side airbags, side-curtain bags, and a driver-side knee airbag. Frugal as ever But fuel economy probably remains the top reason for wanting the hybrid, if not being able to boast to the neighbors. It carries stellar EPA ratings of 43 city, 36 highway. While we know that hybrid models aren't quite turning out their rated mileage in the real world, we were quite impressed with the trip-computer average we saw on our Camry Hybrid test car; in the mixed, mostly stop-and-go driving loop that Toyota had set up for us, the test car was averaging about 32 mpg - not bad at all for a bunch of hot-footed journalists trying to feel out the system. Fuel economy will be a strength on the other Camry models, too, with four cylinder models offering up to 25 city, 34 highway, and V-6s getting 22 city, 31 highway. With the Camry so overwhelmingly competent, it's hard to find faults even when you go looking for them. There was one that did stand out - the seats, which aren't at all comfortable for tall, lanky drivers like this one. Taller folks will likely find the lower seat cushions just too short, and the backrests are noticeable devoid of mid-back support. Those in that same category might find sunroof-equipped cars to be short on headroom, too, so make sure you try with the seat properly adjusted before you buy. There are few practical downsides to getting a Camry. But give it a year or two, and they'll be everywhere. As it's likely to continue its best-selling status, there are few other models you can buy that assure more anonymity. Also, while the Camry's styling can be considered attractive by almost anyone, it's hardly bold. There might be more attention to detail up close, from the other end of the parking lot it still looks like a Camry. From a purely practical perspective the new Camry doesn't feel a lot larger or more comfortable than the already-overachieving Camry that it replaces. But especially with the more expensive versions, it succeeds to bring in a little more emotion, with a little dash of Lexus style - enough such that people who might not have considered a Camry before will take a look. Even more surprising is that the hybrid likely won't be the priciest Camry in the lineup - though we could see initial demand at dealerships driving premiums through the roof. Initial marketing plans call for the Hybrid to slot in below a loaded V-6, appealing to customers who value the technology of the Hybrid system more than the additional luxury or power. Look for all Camrys to post a modest price increase across the board, though. The new Camry looks to be another home run for Toyota . It's not exciting, but it goes above and beyond what the vast majority of car buyers need, with more luxury than most of them will actually be looking for. And it raises the bar for the competition, once again. 2007 Toyota Camry Base Price: Estimated range $19,500-$27,000 Engine: 2.4-liter in-line four, 158 hp/161 lb-ft; 3.5-liter V-6, 268 hp/248 lb-ft; 2.4-liter in-line four and electric motor, 192 hp combined Drivetrain: Five- or six-speed automatic, five-speed manual, or CVT (hybrid); front-wheel drive Length x width x height: 189.2 x 71.7 x 57.5 in Wheelbase: 109.3 in Curb weight: 3285-3637 lb EPA (city/hwy) mpg: 25/34 (I-4 manual); 24/33 (I-4 auto); 22/31 (V-6 automatic); 43/37 (hybrid) Safety equipment: Anti-lock brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), vehicle stability control (VSC), front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, driver knee airbag Major standard equipment: Air conditioning, power windows/locks, tilt/telescope steering, cruise control, AM/FM/CD/MP3 sound system w/mini-jack input Warranty: Three years/36,000 miles comprehensive; five years/60,000 miles powertrain Link: http://www.thecarconnection.com/Vehicle_Re...S180.A9947.html

Well, the front end looks pretty sharp and the interior isn't too shabby either. I can see this giving the Lucerne some problems. Lucerne commercial: "A V8 isn't available in any Lexus ES." Potential ES350 commercial: "V8 power from a V6 engine." Of course, there's a possible torque advantage in the Lucerne's favor but the mainstreamer consumers don't usually look at torque ratings. "Hey look, the ES350 gets the same power as the high-end Lucerne with a smaller engine. It's much more economial." We'll see if that bears out I guess but the point is this is a heavy blow to Buick.

Point taken...but then I laughed at Yugo.