..:: World's Luxurious Cars ::..

Jaguar Cars Limited

2007-01-25T10:18:00.000+07:00

Founded
1922

Headquarters
Browns Lane, Allesley, Coventry, England

Key people
Geoff Polites (CEO)Bibiana Boerio (Managing Director)
Industry
Automotive
Products
Automobile
Parent
Ford Premier Automotive Group

Website

Jaguar.com

Jaguar Cars Limited is a British luxury car manufacturer, with headquarters in Browns Lane, Coventry, England. It was founded as SS Cars Ltd in 1922 and changed its name to Jaguar in 1945. The company has been owned by Ford since 1990. Jaguar also has an engineering division in Whitley, Coventry.
Jaguar's main competitors include BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus, Cadillac, Infiniti and in the past Rover. Its continual nemesis, until it became a subsidiary of Ford, however, was reliability. Since the company has been under the Ford Motor Company umbrella, reliability and build has improved dramatically, even surpassing that of Audi and Mercedes-Benz, with the company coming 7th (out of 30) in the J. D. Power Customer Satisfaction Survey (the '242-million mile road test'), and the S-TYPE model coming 9th out of 105 cars in the same survey. However, nowhere has the turnaround in the quality of the cars been more obvious than in the 2003 Top Gear Survey, where the XJ8 (X308) model came first.
The name is pronounced /ˈdʒægjuːə/ "jag ewer" in the UK, //ˈdʒægˌwɑɹ// "jag wahr" in the USA. The colloquial "Jag" is acceptable in both countries.

Headquarters of Toyota

2007-01-25T10:01:00.000+07:00

Founded
1933 by Kiichiro Toyoda

Headquarters
Toyota, Aichi, Japan
Torrance, California, USA Brussels, Belgium

Key people
Fujio Cho, Chairman Katsuhiro Nakagawa, Vice Chairman,Katsuaki Watanabe, President Yukitoshi Funo, Chairman and CEO, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A,,James E. Press, Chief Operating Officer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.,Bob Carter, Vice President and General. Manager, Lexus Group
Industry
Automobile manufacturing,Financial services,Biotechnology
Products
Toyota,Lexus,Scion
Toyota Financial Services,Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.,Hino Motors, Ltd.,DENSO,Toyota Industries
Slogan

Website
www.toyota.co.jp

The headquarters of Toyota are located in Toyota, Aichi, Japan. Its subsidiary, Toyota Financial Services sells financing and participates in other lines of business. Toyota brands include Scion and Lexus and the corporation is part of the Toyota Group. Toyota also owns majority stakes in Daihatsu and Hino, and 8.7% of Fuji Heavy Industries, which manufactures Subaru vehicles. They also acquired 5.9% of Isuzu Motors Ltd. on November 7, 2006 and will be introducing Isuzu diesel technology into their products.
In 2005, Toyota, combined with its half-owned subsidiary Daihatsu Motor Company, produced 8.54 million vehicles, about 500,000 fewer than the number produced by GM that year. In some months in 2006, Toyota passed Ford in selling cars. Toyota has a large market share in the United States, Europe and Africa and is the market leader in Australia. It has significant market shares in several fast-growing Southeast Asian countries.[3]
In the Fortune Global 500, Toyota Motor is the 8th largest company in the world outpacing Ford Motor Company in all listings in terms of revenue and growth and in the 2006 Forbes Global 2000 it is the 12th largest company in the world. It has been consistently gaining market share in the United States.
The company was founded in 1933 by Kiichiro Toyoda as an offshoot of Toyoda Automatic Loom Company, under the encouragement of the Japanese government, which needed domestic vehicle production partly due to the worldwide money shortage and partly due to the war with China[4]. Toyota has introduced new technologies including the first hybrid gas-electric vehicle, Advanced Parking Guidance System (automatic parking), a four-speed electronically controlled automatic with buttons for power and economy shifting, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Toyota, and Toyota-produced Lexus and Scion automobiles, consistently rank at the top in quality and reliability surveys, including J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, among others.

Daimler Chrysler AG Headquartered

2007-01-25T09:48:00.000+07:00

Founded
1998

Headquarters
Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany & Auburn Hills, Michigan, USA

Key people
Dieter Zetsche, CEO and Chairman
Industry
Auto & Truck Manufacturers
Products
Chrysler, Detroit Diesel, Dodge, Jeep, Maybach, Mercedes-Benz, Western Star, more
Revenue
€149.78 billion
Employees
382,724 (2005)

Website

www.daimlerchrysler.com

DaimlerChrysler AG headquartered in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and Auburn Hills, Michigan, USA, is a prominent automobile and truck manufacturer and financial services provider (through DaimlerChrysler Financial Services). The company also owns a major stake in aerospace group EADS.
DaimlerChrysler was formed in 1998 by the merger of Daimler-Benz (Germany) and the Chrysler Corporation (USA). The transaction was announced on May 7, and took place on November 12.
The company produces cars and trucks under the brands Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Smart, and Maybach, among others. The Chrysler Group (Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge) also provides its customers with parts and accessories marketed under the Mopar brand

Ferrari Headquarters

2007-01-25T09:37:00.000+07:00

Type

Subsidiary

Founded
1929

Headquarters
Modena, Italy

Key people
Luca di Montezemolo, Chairman and PresidentJean Todt, CEOGiancarlo Coppa CFO
Industry
Automotive
Parent
Fiat

Website

http://www.ferrariworld.com

Ferrari is an Italian sports car manufacturer based in Maranello, Italy. Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1929 as Scuderia Ferrari, the company sponsored drivers and manufactured race cars before moving into production of street legal vehicles in 1946 as Ferrari S.p.A.. Ferrari's cars are among the most desirable of vehicles to own and drive, and are one of the ultimate status symbols of wealth in the western world. Throughout its history, the company has been noted for its continued participation in racing, especially in Formula One, where it has largely enjoyed great success, especially during the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, late 1990s, and 2000s.
After years of financial struggles, Enzo Ferrari sold the company's sports car division to the Fiat group in 1969 in order to help ensure continued financial backing for the foreseeable future. Enzo Ferrari himself retained control of the racing division until his death in 1988 at the age of 90.
Ferrari also has an internal managed merchandising line and every day high quality products are distributed with their brand, including pens, perfume, high tech bicycles and even a series of laptop computers.

Lexus LS 460

2007-01-25T08:48:00.000+07:00

With its new long-wheelbase model and many luxury-themed firsts, the 2007 Lexus LS 460 should be considered a full equal to the top European luxury sedans.

Pros
Extremely quiet, intelligent cabin design, high-quality materials, powerful V8 engine and slick eight-speed transmission.

Cons
Base suspension allows too much body roll and brake dive when driven aggressively on curvy roads.

What's New for 2007
The 2007 Lexus LS 460 is an all-new vehicle. Compared to the LS 430 it replaces, the LS 460 is about the same size but more powerful and refined, and comes with a host of new features. An extended-wheelbase model is new, and a hybrid-powered version, dubbed the LS 600h L, is expected to debut next year.

2007 Lexus LS 460 Overview
Introduction
To win over the hearts and checkbooks of large-luxury-sedan shoppers, Lexus has been methodically plying its LS in America for close to 20 years now. Originally undercutting its European competition on price while simultaneously offering more power and superior reliability, the LS has gone on to enjoy plenty of sales success and customer satisfaction. Now, for 2007, Lexus has released its most comprehensive LS to date in the fully redesigned LS 460.
Dimensions are similar to the previous LS 430. The new sedan's wheelbase is 1.7 inches longer, but there's less than an inch difference in overall length. However, this is just for the regular-wheelbase model. For the first time, Lexus is offering an extended-wheelbase model. Known as the LS 460 L, it provides significantly more legroom for rear-seat passengers.
As you may gather from the car's new designation, there's a new V8 of slightly larger displacement (4.6 liters versus 4.3). New drivetrain technologies abound, including electric-motor-driven variable valve timing and an eight-speed automatic transmission -- a first for this segment. The result is 380 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. If the increases of 102 hp and 55 pound-feet of torque over the LS 430 aren't enough to raise your eyebrows, perhaps the fact that the LS 460 also gets slightly better fuel economy will.
Additional refinement was also a main goal for the redesign. The company boasts about the LS 460's crystal-inspired headlight lenses, its ultra-smooth exterior paint and the leather on the steering wheel -- it's apparently been buffed six times longer than the LS 430's. There are also a host of new technologies, including a more advanced stability control system, adaptive headlights, separate dual-zone climate controls front and rear and even a feature that gives the car the ability to parallel-park itself.
Lexus has taken a big step forward with its new LS 460. With its new long-wheelbase model and many luxury-themed firsts, the LS should be considered a full equal to the top European luxury sedans. It's true that some potential owners might find it a little passionless when compared with competitors like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Jaguar XJ. Others might miss the simpler and less ostentatious feel of earlier LS models. Still, the changes for the 2007 Lexus LS 460 are the right ones.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2007 Lexus LS 460 is a large luxury sedan. There are two models available: the regular 460 and the extended-wheelbase 460 L. Major standard features for the LS 460 include 18-inch wheels, adaptive xenon HID headlights, a moonroof, leather upholstery, wood trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, power and heated front seats, keyless entry and start, Bluetooth connectivity and an audio system with a six-disc CD changer and an auxiliary jack. Through some optional packages, Lexus also offers a hard drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic and a backup camera, heated and cooled front seats, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system, satellite radio, park assist, a new Advanced Parking Guidance System and adaptive radar-based cruise control.
The LS 460 L is equipped similarly but does come standard with the navigation system and satellite radio. An adaptive air suspension is optional. There's also an exclusive package for the 460 L called the Executive Class Seating Package. It drops rear seating capacity to two but adds a fixed console with cooled storage; reclining power seats with heating, cooling and massage; a DVD entertainment system; and full dual-zone rear climate control.
For more Style information, see our Compare Styles page.

Powertrains and Performance
The LS 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 that makes 380 hp and 367 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. In our testing, the LS 460 hit 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
For more Performance Data, see our Specifications page.

Safety
Standard safety features on the 2007 Lexus LS 460 include front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and knee-protecting airbags for front passengers. Side-impact airbags for outboard rear passengers are optional. Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, traction control and a stability control system that's faster and more responsive than last year's are also standard. Models equipped with adaptive cruise control have a pre-collision feature that optimizes the car's safety systems for an impending impact.

Interior Design and Special Features
In an ergonomic sense, the cockpit layout of the five-passenger LS 460 luxury sedan is near perfection. There's no great learning curve required to operate the climate controls, audio system and other features, and the Optitron electroluminescent gauges are especially handsome in design, and effective visual messengers. The interior is just as brilliant in an aesthetic sense. Rich wood trim is complemented by standard perforated leather upholstery. From the exquisite stitching in the leather to the matching of the wood grain, the fit and finish is without peer. The trunk, for which Lexus offers a power lid-closing feature, can hold 18 cubic feet of cargo, but that figure drops to 12 on the LS 460 L if the rear-seat climate control system is ordered.
For more Interior Features information, see our Specifications page.

Driving Impressions
On the road, the 2007 Lexus LS 460 is impressively quiet. Drivers and passengers will find themselves sheathed in a bubble of serenity. When one pilots the LS aggressively on curvy roads, however, it's apparent that Lexus, as with the earlier models, did not design the car to be overtly sporty. Demanding drivers will find the standard suspension doesn't sufficiently stifle the excessive nose dive during braking and body lean through hard corners. Plus, it doesn't do particularly well damping the jiggle that occurs over expansion joints on concrete freeways. The other troubling dynamic element is the LS 460's brakes, which are powerful but can seem grabby in stop-and-go traffic.

Maserati Coupe

2007-01-24T07:30:00.000+07:00

Dimensions
Exterior
Length: 178 in.
Width: 71.7 in.
Height: 51.4 in.
Wheel Base: 104.7 in.
Curb Weight: 3704 lbs.
Gross Weight: 4541 lbs.
Interior
Luggage Capacity: 11.1 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 11 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 4
Performance Data

Performance
Base Number of Cylinders: 8
Base Engine Size: 4.2 liters
Base Engine Type: V8
Horsepower: 390 hp
Max Horsepower: 7000 rpm
Torque: 333 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4500 rpm
Drive Type: RWD
Turning Circle: 39.3 ft.

Fuel Data
Fuel
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.2 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway)
Automatic: : 12 mpg / 19 mpg
Range in Miles: (City/Highway)
Automatic: 278.4 mi. / 440.8 mi.

Though outclassed in certain areas, the Maserati Coupe makes up for it with rarity and Italian-influenced design and flair. Those searching for a luxury performance coupe for below the $100,000 mark will want to give it a look.

Pros
Affordable Italian looks and personality, comfortable cockpit, healthy warranty.

Cons
Lacking some of the latest technology and safety features, optional sequential-shift manual transmission doesn't always shift smoothly.

What's New for 2006
A price cut means the Maserati Coupe GT now starts at around $80,000. The Carbon Fiber Interior Trim and Vintage Option packages are revised this year to include a few more features.

2006 Maserati Coupe Overview
Introduction
Returned to sturdy financial ground thanks to involvement from Ferrari and Fiat, Maserati made a return to the U.S. market in 2002 with the new Coupe and accompanying convertible-top Spyder. Based on the 3200 GT, a model never sold in the U.S., the Coupe offers a premium grand-touring driving experience with Italian flair. It features styling by Giugiaro's ItalDesign studio; a double-wishbone suspension; a Ferrari-designed, normally aspirated V8; and an available electrohydraulic manual transmission named Cambiocorsa. The Cambiocorsa unit is similar in design to Ferrari's "F1" automated-clutch manual transmission. There is no clutch pedal, and it allows gearshifts to be made in the blink of an eye via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Also available on the Maserati Coupe is a "Skyhook" active suspension. This system automatically adjusts the stiffness of the suspension according to different road and driving conditions for improved ride comfort and more dynamic sports handling.
Because of its approximate $80,000 starting price (and Ferrari's increasingly stratospheric asking prices), the Maserati Coupe strikes us as a surprising bargain. Its interior is cheerfully Italian, especially compared to the effective but somber cabins of many German performance cars. And while the outlook of long-term Maserati durability is still unknown, at least there's a healthy warranty backing the GranSport. The Coupe also delivers more personality and a more exclusive ownership experience than mainstream German coupes such as the BMW 650i and Mercedes-Benz CL500. And even after five years on the market, it is still a rare sight on U.S. roads. The downside to Maserati Coupe ownership is that its design is getting a bit old and it can't be had with some of the more recent safety features and techno-gadgets. But for those desiring an entertaining luxury coupe with an extra amount of Italian flair, this is a car to certainly check out for 2006.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
As its name indicates, this Maserati is a coupe, with a 9-inch-longer wheelbase than its drop-top sibling. Among the standard features are dual power seats with driver memory, automatic climate control and 18-inch alloy wheels. A trio of optional packages is available: "Interior carbon-fiber trim," "Vintage" (which includes 19-inch wheels and chrome grille, side vents and door handles) and "Executive" (which bundles the Skyhook active suspension, rear park assist, xenon headlights, 19-inch wheels and mesh grille). Separate options include xenon HID headlights, a hands-free phone and a five-disc CD changer. Also of some significance is the ability of the Coupe buyer to customize his car with a multitude of interior trim color combinations, as well as being able to choose unique out-of-range exterior paint colors. Providing peace of mind is Maserati's four-year/50,000-mile warranty.

Powertrains and Performance
A 4.2-liter V8 borrowed from Ferrari makes 390 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. All that power is sent to the rear wheels of the Coupe via either a traditional six-speed manual or optional F1-style, automated-clutch six-speed gearbox (called "Cambiocorsa" -- Italian for "racing gearbox") that's shifted via paddles next to the steering wheel. The Cambiocorsa offers four modes: "Normal," "Sport," "Auto" and "Low Grip." In Normal and Sport, the transmission shifts aggressively; more so in Sport mode. In Auto, the car shifts itself automatically. In Low Grip, gentler starts are ensured for driving on low-traction surfaces. According to Maserati, the Coupe will hit 60 mph in less than 5 seconds while top speed is 177 mph.

Safety
In addition to government-mandated features, the Coupe comes with antilock brakes, traction control, side airbags and stability control as standard equipment.
Interior Design and Special Features
Beautiful leather work is as Italian as cannoli. The Coupe shows off its heritage with fine hides and impeccable craftsmanship. A dip in the center of the dash echoes the signature Maserati grille, and the various controls are much easier to use compared with past Masers. More than a 2+2 with "occasional" rear seats best left to small children, the Maserati Coupe accommodates four adults with those in back enjoying sculpted and supportive seats. A variety of custom trim options, such as contrasting piping on the seats and carbon-fiber accents for the dash and console, are available.

Driving Impressions
The combination of 390 horsepower, a lightning-quick F1 shifter, active suspension components and a satisfying V8 rumble prove nothing short of magical. It may sound gauche to call it a Mazda Miata on steroids, but that was the impression after running hard through our favorite set of twisties. Unlike so many exotics that impress you with their size almost as much as their performance, the easily managed Maserati doesn't intimidate you while you're driving it. Though the Coupe can't match the outright pace of the top BMW M or Mercedes-Benz AMG machines, flinging the Coupe through corners is an absolute joy, with throttle, brakes and steering inputs working with each other to slingshot the car between apexes.
For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from our Editors,

Audi A8 L W12 quattro 4dr Sedan AWD

2007-01-23T07:51:00.000+07:00

Specifications
Type: Large Sedan
Where Built: Germany

Exterior
Length: 204.4 in.
Width: 74.6 in.
Height: 57.3 in.
Wheel Base: 121 in.
Ground Clearance: 4.7 in.
Curb Weight: 4729 lbs.

Interior
Front Head Room: 37.4 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 59.1 in.
Rear Head Room: 38.3 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 57.5 in.
Front Leg Room: 41.3 in.
Rear Leg Room: 42.3 in.
Luggage Capacity: 14.6 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 15 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data
Base Number of Cylinders: 12
Base Engine Size: 6 liters
Base Engine Type: W12
Horsepower: 450 hp
Max Horsepower: 6200 rpm
Torque: 428 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4000 rpm
Drive Type: AWD
Turning Circle: 41.7 ft.

Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway)
Automatic: : 15 mpg / 21 mpg
Range in Miles: (City/Highway)
Automatic: 357 mi. / 499.8 mi.

Lincoln MKZ 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

2007-01-22T07:48:00.000+07:00

First Drive: 2007 Lincoln MKZ

Lincoln takes a do-over. Says it'll be way cooler this time! By Daniel Pund, Senior Editor, Detroit Date posted: 11-14-2006
See all of the Ratings: Go to the Road Test Scoreboard
Read More Road Tests: Go to the Road Test Index

About Our Road Tests

With the introduction of the 2007 Lincoln MKZ, Ford's luxury brand is taking a do-over. You know the do-over. It's one of the critical rules by which the prepubescent live. It goes like this: Say you're preparing to jump your BMX bike off of the curb and your pant leg gets caught between the sprocket and chain and you wipe out. Or maybe you slip on the grass during your turn of the impromptu crab-apple-throwing contest, muddying your new pair of cords. In either example, the aggrieved party could petition for a do-over. A do-over, if granted by all other parties present, would effectively erase both your wasted turn and expunge the embarrassment of the slipup. Essentially, it winds back time to immediately before the unfortunate incident. This might seem an awfully childish thing for a company 90 years old. But it is exactly what Lincoln has done with its entry-level luxury sedan. "Cheaters!" you cry? Well, you and what army are going to stop them?After one fleeting year on the market, Lincoln has yanked the front-drive Zephyr and replaced it with the 2007 MKZ, which is better in a few important ways than the car it replaces. Its name is not one of these improvements.Double-dog do-overLincoln, which has appeared aimless for the last several years, is not new to this whole do-over game. In fact, the 2006 Zephyr was itself a do-over. Back in the day, the company introduced a rear-drive sport sedan called the LS. This vehicle was to spark the rebirth of Lincoln as a true competitor to the European premium brands. Instead, the LS languished. And Lincoln introduced a few oddities such as the Blackwood pickup truck and an endless parade of show cars that all looked roughly like a 1960s Continental. With Cadillac going hard at the rear-drive BMW-style sport-sedan market, Lincoln decided instead to aim for Lexus and Acura and their front-drive entry-level sedans. And, hey, parent Ford Motor Company had the well-received midsize Mazda 6 sedan lying around. Add some satin-nickel interior trim, a retro-style dash panel and vaguely art-deco-style body with a toothy grille and, voilà, a Zephyr.

Unfortunately, in its eagerness to get things moving, Lincoln forgot to put an engine in the Zephyr. Instead, it installed a boat anchor of a 3.0-liter V6, making a paltry 221 horsepower in a mostly unpleasant fashion. Ford had an all-new 3.5-liter V6 in the works, but it wasn't ready in time for the Zephyr launch. Why the company wouldn't wait until the new motor was ready, we cannot say. Call it premature introduction.Let's book outta hereIt is the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 that distinguishes an MKZ from a Zephyr. The interior is the same distinctive unit as in the previous model. And the exterior is the same, other than some trim differences. Only a hard-core Lincoln wonk would notice the modified front fascia that arrives with the engine and name change. And we're not sure there are any hard-core Lincoln wonks. This engine, which will power a wide variety of Ford Motor Company products including the new Edge crossover, uses a dual-plenum intake manifold and variable intake valve timing to produce 263 hp at 6,250 rpm. More important than the increase of 42 horses, the 3.5-liter grinds out an additional 44 pound-feet of torque compared to the old engine. And it does it at a lower engine speed, meaning it feels more responsive in day-to-day, around-town driving. Lincoln also pinched the all-wheel-drive system from the Ford Edge/Lincoln MKX crossovers for use in the MKZ. But more on that later.Playing with the big kidsThe Lincoln's power is now on par with its two most obvious competitors, the Acura TL (258 hp) and the Lexus ES 350 (272 hp). Like the newly introduced Lexus, the MKZ has a six-speed automatic bolted to its engine. And the similarities don't end there. All three cars are within an inch and a half in overall length. They all ride on standard 17-inch wheels. And they all offer about the same interior space for a maximum of five passengers each. And each car is based on an offering from a non-luxury division (MKZ: Mazda 6 and Ford Fusion; TL: Honda Accord; ES 350: Toyota Camry).Where these vehicles differ most is in their personalities. The Acura TL, clothed in a sporty arrowhead body, is the most aggressive of the trio. It trades some ride comfort for its quick responses. The ES 350 is tuned pretty much as previous versions of the ES were, which is to say soft and serene. Lincoln plants the MKZ's ride-versus-handling character directly in between those two. We drove the MKZ, equipped with the new all-wheel-drive system, on some impossibly tight and twisty roads through the Smoky Mountains. And, considering this tortured piece of pavement is best suited to a Caterham 7 or a Mazda Miata, the midsize MKZ acquitted itself admirably. The MKZ's steering system is smooth and linear which allowed us to pour the Lincoln into turns without upsetting our passenger too much. The body rolls slightly but in a progressive, predictable manner that's more than acceptable given the MKZ's relatively plush ride. The overall feel is neutral and competent. It's no BMW 3 Series, nor even an Acura TL, but it handles better than most Lincoln buyers are likely to expect or demand.The Lincoln's only major glaring fault is the absence of a sequential-shift system for its transmission. Even the cushy Lexus allows its driver to choose his own gears. The MKZ has an O/D off button which locks out high gear and, according to Lincoln, puts the transmission in "hill mode" that theoretically should hold lower gears longer and be more likely to downshift. Still, we repeatedly caught the MKZ's tranny in too high a gear during our mountain drive, letting the engine loaf.Uh, boring!Even equipped with the new all-wheel-drive system (a $1,875 option that came on our test vehicle), the MKZ is essentially a front-drive car. But the all-wheel-drive system can transfer torque to the rear even before the front wheels slip. For example, when the driver floors the throttle, the system will transfer power rearward in anticipation of slip. Neither of the MKZ's two main competitors offers all-wheel drive. Both, however, are fitted with standard electronic stability control, which the MKZ does not offer — not even as an option. The Lincoln comes standard with dual-stage front airbags, driver and passenger side airbags and side curtain airbags. And the MKZ comes reasonably well equipped with real wood trim inside and standard leather, heated and power-adjustable front seats and an auxiliary audio input. Major options include the all-wheel-drive system, a power moonroof and HID headlamps. At a $29,890 base price (including destination), the 2007 Lincoln MKZ undercuts its Japanese-brand rivals by a significant $4,000. But, if recent history is any judge, the Acura and Lexus will retain a far higher portion of their value over the years.With the new engine, Lincoln's entry-luxury sedan is at least equipped to fight the established contenders, if not exactly whoop 'em. That's not a bad result for a do-over.Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.

Cadillac XLR-V Convertible

2007-01-22T07:33:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
4.4L V8, 32 valve, 443 hp @ 6400 rpm
6 speed automatic transmission
15 mpg city / 22 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractors
Auto Release Parking Brake
AM/FM Radio With Bose(R) Sound System and 9 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; XM(R) Satellite Radio

Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged

2007-01-21T22:31:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
4.2L V8, 32 valve, 390 hp @ 5750 rpm
6 speed automatic transmission
13 mpg city / 18 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Front Seatbelt Height Adjusters
Full-Time 4-Wheel Drive
Harman Kardon(R) Logic 7(TM) AM/FM Radio With 550-Watts, Surround Sound and 14 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; MP3 Player; Sirius(TM) Satellite Radio

Options:
Rear Locking Differential
Intelligent Cruise Control
Rear Seat Entertainment System

HUMMER H2 SUV Adventure

2007-01-21T22:07:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
6.0L V8, 16 valve, 325 hp @ 5200 rpm
4 speed automatic transmission

Standard Features:
Front Passenger and Rear Automatic Locking Retractors
Full-Time 4-Wheel Drive
Radio Antenna

Options:
Rearview Camera System
Off-Road Brush Guard Spot Lights
XM(R) Satellite Radio

Lexus IS 350 6-Speed Sequential 2007

2007-01-19T12:06:00.000+07:00

Engine:
3.5L V6, 24 valve, 306 hp @ 6400 rpm
6 speed automatic transmission
21 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Front Passenger and Rear Automatic Locking Retractors
Hill Start Control
Premium ETR(R) AM/FM Radio With 194-Watts, Speed Sensitive Volume and 13 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer Integrated With Radio

Options:
Parking Assist With Clearance Sonar
(PIO) Wheel Locks
Mark Levinson(R) Premium Audio Package

BMW M5

2007-01-19T11:47:00.000+07:00

Engine:
5.0L V10, 40 valve, 500 hp @ 7750 rpm
7 speed manual (standard) or 6 speed manual transmission
12 mpg city / 18 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Front Passenger and Rear Automatic Locking Retractors
Hill Start Control
2 Subwoofers

Options:
Rear Side Airbags
Heads Up Display
HD Radio

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT

2007-01-18T07:30:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
3.8L V6, 24 valve, 263 hp @ 5750 rpm
6 speed manual (standard) or 5 speed automatic transmission
19 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Front Seatbelt Height Adjusters
4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
AM/FM Radio With 140 Watts and 6 Speakers Total; CD Player; MP3 Player

Options:
Sportronic(TM) 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

Infiniti G35 Coupe 6MT 2007

2007-01-18T07:21:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
3.5L V6, 24 valve, 295 hp @ 6400 rpm
6 speed manual transmission
19 mpg city / 26 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Front and Rear Automatic Locking Retractors
Viscous Limited Slip Differential
AM/FM Radio With 160 Watts and 6 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; MP3 Player

Options:
Navigation System
(PIO) Trunk Mat
Sunroof

Volvo S40 2.4i 2007

2007-01-17T12:14:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
2.4L I5, 20 valve, 168 hp @ 6000 rpm 5 speed manual (standard) or 5 speed automatic transmission
22 mpg city / 31 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractors
4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
Radio Antenna

Options:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
Sirius(TM) Satellite Radio

Pontiac G6 GT Coupe

2007-01-17T12:01:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:

3.5L V6, 12 valve, 224 hp @ 5800 rpm
4 speed automatic transmission
20 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy
Green Rating: 63

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractors
4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
Subwoofer

Options:
Seat Mounted Front Side Airbags
4-Wheel Disc Brakes With Larger Front Rotors
OnStar(R) Services Package

Bentley Arnage RL

2007-01-16T22:32:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
6.75L V8, 16 valve, 400 hp @ 4000 rpm
4 speed automatic transmission
10 mpg city / 14 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractors
Rear Viscous Limited Slip Differential
AM/FM Radio With 140-Watts and 8 Speakers Total; CD Player; 6-Disc CD Changer

Options:
Reversing Camera To Satellite Navigation Screen
Chrome Radiator Shell
DVD Entertainment System

Jaguar XJ-Series Super V8 Portfolio

2007-01-16T22:26:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
4.2L V8, 32 valve, 400 hp @ 6100 rpm
6 speed automatic transmission
17 mpg city / 24 mpg hwy

What's New for the 2006 Jaguar XJ-Series?
A new range-topping Super V8 Portfolio style debuts for the 2006 Jaguar XJ.

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractors
Auto Engage Parking Brake
Subwoofers

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti F1

2007-01-16T22:13:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
6.0L V12, 48 valve, 540 hp @ 7250 rpm
6 speed automatic transmission
10 mpg city / 17 mpg hwy

Standard Features:
Automatic Locking Retractor
Rear Locking Differential
2 Subwoofers

Options:
GPS Navigation Aid
Two-Tone Interior Option

Saturn Aura

2007-01-16T20:06:00.000+07:00

The Saturn Aura was praised for being nice to drive and full of standard features - making it a viable competitor to its foreign rivals. The car was also credited for having brought GM's Saturn division, a company that has struggled with its product lineup since its inception 16 years ago, back into play.

Mercedes Benz Ocean Drive Concept

2007-01-16T19:59:00.000+07:00

Mercedes-Benz is unveiling yet another out-of-the-box design study called Ocean Drive Concept.
From the folks who pioneered the four-door sports coupe concept and eventually carrying out the idea into production in the CLS, Mercedes-Benz is unveiling yet another out-of-the-box design study called Ocean Drive Concept at this year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Based on the V-12 powered S600, the Ocean Drive is a large, open-air cruiser complete with a giant soft-top and an innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system to keep the occupants warm even during cooler days. Apart from being a full-fledge four-door convertible, the Ocean Drive wears unique styling cues such as the upright front grille, LED headlamps and taillights, plus a two-tone body color paint-scheme. Inside the car, the cabin is furnished in finest leather and bird's eye maple trim. We don't expect the car to see production anytime soon.

Jeep Patriot

2007-01-16T19:41:00.000+07:00

The Patriot is the country cousin to the new and citified Jeep Compass.
Jeep promises that the Trail-Rated Patriot will be the most capable 4x4 in the compact crossover sport utility vehicle category, thanks to its Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.
Like the Compass, the Patriot will be available in front-wheel drive or with a four-wheel-drive system with a Lock mode to enhance traction in inclement weather.
But the Patriot gets an additional Freedom Drive II option with a continuously variable transaxle with a low range that engages when the off-road mode is activated. The package includes 17-inch all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, air-filtration system, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and a seat height adjuster. Jeep says the FDII system is recommended "for true off-road situations that include steep grades, wheel lift and rock or log climbing."

Nissan Maxima SL

2007-01-16T19:36:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
3.5L V6, 24 valve, 255 hp @ 6000 rpm
VAR speed automatic transmission
21 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

Toyota FJ Cruiser 4X4 AT

2007-01-16T19:30:00.000+07:00

Available Standard Engine:
4.0L V6, 24 valve, 239 hp @ 5200 rpm
5 speed automatic transmission
17 mpg city / 21 mpg hwy

Ford GT Coupe

2007-01-16T18:44:00.000+07:00

Available Standard Engine:
5.4L V8, 32 valve, 550 hp @ 6500 rpm
6 speed manual transmission
13 mpg city / 21 mpg hwy

GMC Sierra HD

2007-01-16T18:39:00.000+07:00

GMC gets an all-new line of heavy-duty pickups in 2007. More than mere re-styling, the 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD also get a boost in the one department where they might have been considered lightweight in today's hyper-competitive market: powertrain.
Benefiting from variable valve timing, the base engine for 2007 is a new 6.0-liter V8 making 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, increases of 53 hp and 13 lb.-ft. over the '06 6.0-liter V8.

The top engine, a much re-worked version of the tried-and-true Duramax 6.6-liter V8 turbocharged diesel in the 2006 GMC HDs, ups its output to 365 horsepower, vs. the '06's 360, and the torque to 660 pound-feet, vs. the '06's 650. It's also cleaner, emitting 90 percent fewer particulates and 50 percent less NOx than the current version, bringing the engine into compliance with government clean air standards set to take effect in calendar year 2007.
Each engine is paired with its own, new, six-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline-fueled V8's Hydra-Matic offers a manual-shift, tap-up/tap-down gear selection mode. Two-wheel drive is standard, four-wheel drive optional.

Chevrolet Camaro

2007-01-16T18:36:00.000+07:00

The completely new TT carries on the "circles and domes" design language that distinguished the first generation, but it's now 5 inches longer and about 3 inches wider than its predecessor and features numerous technical improvements.
Among those technical improvements is the extensive use of aluminum in the car's structure, which not only reduces power-robbing weight but provides more strength than a conventional steel configuration. Steel components are used in the rear of the car to help provide balanced weight distribution and enhance the handling.

Audi TT

2007-01-16T18:33:00.000+07:00

Audi is launching an all-new version of its TT sports car. The 2007 Audi TT, which debuts in Europe this year, doesn't hit U.S. showrooms until early in 2007, first in coupe form and then later as a roadster.
When it was launched in 1998, the Audi TT was hailed as an icon of automotive design, with the 2+2 sports coupe's flowing lines cloaking an athletic chassis and responsive family of powertrains. As difficult as it might be to improve an icon, Audi seems to have done so with its new TT.

The completely new TT carries on the "circles and domes" design language that distinguished the first generation, but it's now 5 inches longer and about 3 inches wider than its predecessor and features numerous technical improvements.
Among those technical improvements is the extensive use of aluminum in the car's structure, which not only reduces power-robbing weight but provides more strength than a conventional steel configuration. Steel components are used in the rear of the car to help provide balanced weight distribution and enhance the handling.

Chrysler 300 SRT-8

2007-01-16T18:29:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
6.1L V8, 16 valve, 425 hp @ 6200 rpm
5 speed automatic transmission
14 mpg city / 20 mpg hwy

Saturn SKY Roadster

2007-01-16T18:24:00.000+07:00

Available Standard Engine:
2.4L I4, 16 valve, 177 hp @ 6600 rpm
5 speed manual (standard) or 5 speed automatic transmission
22 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

Cadillac CTSV

2007-01-16T18:21:00.000+07:00

AvailableStandard Engine:
6.0L V8, 16 valve, 400 hp @ 6000 rpm
6 speed manual transmission
15 mpg city / 24 mpg hwy

BMW 3 Series Convertible 330Cic

2007-01-16T18:16:00.000+07:00

Standard Engine:
3.0L I6, 24 valve, 225 hp @ 5900 rpm 6 speed manual (standard) or 5 speed automatic transmission
19 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

Optional Engine(s):
3.0L I6, 24 valve, 235 hp @ 5900 rpm
6 speed manual (standard) or 5 speed automatic transmission
19 mpg city / 28 mpg hwy

PT Cruiser 2006

2007-01-16T18:08:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer:
Chrysler -
The depth of design innovations doesn't stop with the PT Cruiser's exterior. Interior amenities like leather-trimmed seats with Preferred Suede® accents and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard on Limited models. In fact, the interior styling of every PT Cruiser is luxurious, refined, and designed to fit you.

Aston Martin Vantage V8 Roadster

2007-01-16T17:55:00.000+07:00

The V8 Vantage Roadster embodies the qualities that are integral to Aston Martin: Power, Beauty & Soul. Representing the essence of pure driving pleasure, the new Roadster is a compact sports car that offers an astonishing blend of performance and exhilaration, a car with two distinct personalities: Open & invigorating, or closed & cosseting.