2011 New Vehicle Guide

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

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2 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

THE REPORTER

2011 FEATURE

2011 FEATURE

HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID

HYUNDAI TUCSON

There are certainly no signs of Hyundai attempting to play it safe with the 2011 Sonata. The normal evolutionary approach has been kicked to the curb, which means a new sedan that’s in no way similar to its predecessor, or to its main competitors: the Honda Accord; Toyota Camry; Nissan Altima; and Chevrolet Malibu. Its bold look is unmistakable, which is good thing in this class.

The Sonata’s 3,160-pound base weight also represents a pruning of 130 pounds and to help cut the fat, there’s significant use of aluminum suspension components that are attached to a much stiffer platform. And for the first time since the early 1990s, the Sonata doesn’t offer a V6. The base engine is a 198-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder (200-horses with the optional dual exhaust). That’s up by about 25 horsepower over the 2010 Sonata’s base 2.4. For more power, there’s a 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. As well, the all-new Sonata Hybrid operates with a 169-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder connected to a 30-kilowatt (40-horsepower) electric motor for a net output of 209 horsepower. The Hybrid’s other critical ingredient is the first-time use of a 270-volt lithiumpolymer battery that helps the car reach speeds up to 62 mph on electric power alone, topping its direct competitors. The vehicle’s estimated 37 mpg city and 39 mpg highway is also at the top of the class.

The base 2.4 is connected to a six-speed manual transmission, or optional six-speed automatic, while both the turbocharged engine and the Hybrid employ only six-speed automatics. Base GLS Sonatas include the usual power-operated controls plus air conditioning, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth short-range wireless networking and keyless push-button start. The sportier SE gets its own suspension settings, 18-inch wheels (16s are standard) and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, eight-way power driver’s seat and fancier interior trim. The top-end Limited comes with climate control, power sunroof, heated front and rear leather seats, wood-grain interior trim and a premium audio system.

A touch-screen navigation system is optional on all models, while much of the Limited’s content can be added to the SE and/or the base GLS trims.

The Hybrid arrives loaded right from the get-go, but checking the Premium Package box adds a panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation, leather seat covers, backup camera, 17-inch wheels (16s are standard) and a premium sound system.

The compact Tucson has been a pillar for Hyundai (more than one million have been sold around the globe since its launch for 2005), especially with buyers shunning big and thirsty sport utility vehicles in favor of thrifty wagons. When the new model was launched for the 2010 model year, jaws dropped and eyes widened as the styling leap-frogged the competition.

Tight proportions, very little overhang beyond the front wheels and slashing longitudinal lines certainly made the Tucson look substantial and anything but “entry level.” Inside, everything fits just right, from the seat bolsters to the shifter and radio controls that immediately falls to hand.

For the Tucson’s small size, there’s no shortage of interior room. The rear passenger doors open wide to swallow passengers or larger boxes. For the Tucson’s introduction in the spring 2010, a 176-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine was brought in (mated to six-speed automatic transmission) to replace the previous four-cylinder and optional V6 engines.

Fuel economy was impressive enough (31-mpg rating on the highway), but for the 2011 model year, Hyundai has slotted in a new base 2.0-liter engine rated at a very respectable 165 horsepower. Oddly, the fuel economy isn’t really any better than that of the 2.4, although the 2.0 is available with a five-speed manual transmission (or the six-speed automatic) and is only be available on front-wheel-drive models with the 2.4 being a necessity if all-wheel-drive is selected.

The AWD comes with a number of off-roader-type functions, including hill-start-assist and downhill-brake control for added stability on steep terrain. The 2011 Tucson runs the gamut, all the way from the inexpensive GL that nearly anyone can afford at less than $20,000 (including destination charges), to the Limited model with big wheels, navigation, leather seating surfaces, dual sunroofs and a stereo that controls your Apple iPod and shows song selection on its screen.

Aside from features, though, one of the most telling signs that you’re in a Limited is the smoother ride and reduced levels of road noise. The difference is quite dramatic, even though the vehicles look pretty much the same. For 2011, the Limited has a revised suspension for a smoother ride. Of course, you can count on Hyundai’s all-encompassing 10-year powertrain, and five-year comprehensive warranties to apply to the Tucson.

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3 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

THE REPORTER

FORD

Fiesta (New for 2011!)

wins out over the sedan’s, but both versions are easy on the eyes. Both models are also easy on the wallet, with fuel economy rated at 29 mpg, city and 40 mpg, highway. Those figures come from a 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder Overall: North American Ford fans get to drive the same Fiesta that Europe and the rest of the world enjoys, and not a that delivers plenty of pep for the 2,540-pound hatchback (2,580-pounds for the sedan). The base manual transmiswatered-down, softened-up replica. sion is a slick shifting five-speed. Optional is a six-speed Drivetrain: Spunky 120-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-shift (automated manual) gearbox that functions is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, or optional without a traditional torque converter. Ordering a Fiesta will fuel-saving six-speed direct-shift gearbox that doesn’t use require careful study as there’s a wide range of models and a torque converter; hey, bring over the diesel version from options to consider. The base S sedan rings in at $14,000, Europe, OK? including destination charges, and comes with air condition■ It might be new to us, but there are currently more than a ing, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power locks and mirrors, hands-free capless fuel filler plus a cabin filled with half-million Fiestas running around Europe and Asia, where airbags. The next step up for the sedan is the SE, which is the latest version was launched in October of 2008. And where the $15,800 hatchback also begins. Both body styles Ford promises that none of the Fiesta’s charm and spunk has been lost in translation since the Mexican-built four-door add remote keyless entry, four-speaker sound system and a message center with trip computer. The top-level SEL hatchback and all-new North America-exclusive four-door sedan and SES hatchback also toss in 16-inch alloy wheels sedan have begun arriving here. That means we’re finally (15-inch rims are standard), heated outside mirrors, interior getting the same firm-riding, precise-handling, fuel-sipping ambient lighting, premium sound package and SYNC, Ford’s vehicles that others around the globe have been enjoying voice-activated communications and entertainment unit that for years. The Fiesta’s design is Euro sleek and fashionwas developed in conjunction with Microsoft. The option able, topped off with a set of truly beautiful headlight pods list features keyless entry with push-button start, climate — Ford calls them “Dragon’s Eyes” — that neatly blend in control, leather seats (heated in front) and a power sunroof. with the fenders. At the rear, the hatchback’s styling easily

Base price (incl. destination): $14,000 Type: Four-door hatchback; four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 1.6-liter DOHC I4 (120) Optional engine: None Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive Transmissions: 5-speed manual; 6-speed direct-shift auto manual MPG (city/hwy): 29/40 (AT) Safety: Front, side-impact and side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control Weight (lb.): 2,540

Edge

FORD

Overall: Ford’s five-passenger wagon receives a major sprucing up, with greater performance choices, improved fuel economy and a bolder design.

Drivetrain: Base 285-hp 3.5-liter V6, optional 305-hp 3.7-liter V6 and an upcoming 230+ hp 2.0-liter turbocharged I4. All will use six-speed automatic transmissions.

■ The Edge has been a staple in the Ford lineup since its 2007 model-year inception, picking up at least some of the sales slack from the once-mighty Explorer sport ute.

Although not as rugged as the Explorer, the Edge’s modern styling, significantly improved fuel economy and similar pricepoint has attracted plenty of interest. The updated Edge makes an imposing visual statement, but the alterations run deeper than the massive nosepiece that appears influenced by Ford’s F-250 Super Duty pickup. The most noticeable revisions are the three new powerplants. The base 3.5-liter V6/six-speed-automatic-transmission combo used in the SE, SEL and Limited trims has 20 more horsepower — now 285 — than 2010. Ford is bragging up the improved 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway numbers, compared to the outgoing model’s 18/25 rating. The Edge

Base price (incl. destination): $28,000 Type: Four-door sport-utility vehicle Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (285) Optional engines: 3.7-liter DOHC V6 (305 hp); 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (237 hp) Layout: Front-engine, front- /all-wheel-drive Transmission: Six-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy): 19/27 Safety: Front, side-impact and side-curtain airbags with rollover protection; anti-lock brakes; stability control with anti-rollover software Weight (lb.): 4,080

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The Sport also comes with 22-inch wheels (17-20-inchers come on other trim levels), sharper suspension, lower body cladding, unique black leather interior and paddle shifters that rev match the downshifts (to maintain vehicle stability) for its six-speed automatic transmission. Arriving a bit late to the Edge party is a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder offered on front-wheel-drive versions (AWD is optional on most Edge models) that produces 237 hp. It’s connected to a new six-speed automatic transmission that does away with the fuel- and power-sapping torque converter. The option sheet is headed by the MyFord Touch voice- and touch-screen-activated controls that replaces most of the traditional instrumentation with two 4.2-inch diagonal screens positioned on either side of the speedometer, plus one eight-inch screen in the center stack. Together with a game-controller-style “smart” button on the steering wheel, MyFord Touch manages a variety of climate, communications, navigation, infotainment and other vehicle functions in a fairly intuitive fashion and without the usual buttons and switches littering the control area. There are also touchbased controls for the audio volume and ventilation fan speed. Cabin-temperature settings can also be programmed into the system, according to each of the vehicle’s two keyless ignition fobs.

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4 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

THE REPORTER

2011 FEATURE

2011 FEATURE

RAM 1500

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE

The Ram trucks are no longer connected to the Dodge brand, having morphed into a separate division under the Chrysler umbrella. That move should eventually mean a growth of new models developed by emerging Ram team. For the time being, the flagship Ram 1500 pickup, which was redesigned for 2009, is treated to some minor revisions plus an all-new Ram Outdoorsman that caters to the significant number of buyers who claim to regularly participate in hunting, fishing and camping activities.

Outdoorsman content includes an all-terrain tire and wheel package additional exterior lights, special two-tone color combination, extra-large fuel tank and a trailer-towing package.

You can order your Outdoorsman in rear- and four-wheel-drive and in regular, extended Quad and four-door Crew cab variants. Across the rest of the lineup, regular- cab models are available with 6’4” or eight-foot-long pickup beds, while Quad Cabs are attached to the shorter box only. The Ram Crew gets you a 5’7” bed. T he Ram’s interior can be ordered with an extra-wide floor console that can be configured to secure all sorts of bulky gear. Heated and ventilated front seats can also be selected as well as a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control. Remember, this is a pickup truck we’re talking about, here, and not a luxury car.

Ram Crew trucks feature two in-floor storage bins with removable liners that can store up to a dozen beverage cans each. There are also lockable storage compartments built into the rear fenders that can each hold up to 120 12-ounce cans.

Engine choices include a base 215-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 offered as standard on rear-wheel-drive regular-cab and Quad Cabs, while all fourwheel-drive and Ram Crew trucks run with a 310-horse 4.7-liter V8. Of course, the optional 390-horsepower 5.7-liter “Hemi” engine returns as the most potent in Dodge’s light-truck arsenal. How potent, you ask? Dodge claims the Hemi will rocket the 4x2 Ram to 60 mph in slightly more than six seconds. The V6 comes with a four-speed automatic transmission while V8-equipped trucks come with a five-speed automatic.

When it comes to four-wheel-drive, buyers can choose between a parttime system and an on-demand setup that automatically engages when road conditions warrant. Along with the Outdoorsman, the Ram model designations include base ST, SLT, Sport and Laramie, with base content varying widely between each model.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee represents a quantum leap for Chrysler’s ageless off-road brand. Overall length has been extended by nearly two inches, while three inches have been added to the width. Most significantly, the distance between the front and rear wheels grows by 5.3 inches, creating much-needed rear-seat knee and leg space. Along with a stiffer platform, many of the various suspension components are shared with the Mercedes-Benz ML-class sport ute (Chrysler was not long ago part of Mercedes-Benz juggernaut). For 2011, Jeep has replaced the Grand Cherokee’s base 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with a 290-horsepower 3.6-liter unit. Torque is up by 11 percent despite the smaller displacement.

The 5.7-liter “Hemi” V8 remains optional with 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Both powerplants come with five-speed automatic transmissions. All three GC models — Laredo, Limited and Overland — are available in either rear- or four-wheel-drive. For the latter, you’ll have your choice of Quadra-Trac I with its single-speed transfer case, or the more offroad-capable Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II systems. Each features a two-speed transfer case with high and low gearset. Quadra Drive II includes an electronic limited-slip differential that will react to low-traction conditions quick enough to entirely prevent wheel spin. The Quadra Trac II or Quadra Drive II includes Jeep’s new Selec-Terrain control with four separate traction settings: Sand/Mud; Snow; and Rock for off-road terrain plus a Sport setting for dry pavement. Available is Jeep’s Quadra-Lift air-ride suspension that can be manually adjusted over a 4.5-inch range to provide a maximum 11.1 inches of ground clearance. The base Laredo’s equipment includes the usual comfort and power-operated niceties, while the top two trims include 18inch wheels (17s are standard), remote starter and bright bixenon (high and low beam) headlights that automatically adjust their intensity according to ambient light and oncoming traffic. The option list includes a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, 20-inch wheels, premium audio system and a power rear liftgate, to name just a few of the biggies.

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5 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

THE REPORTER

CADILLAC

CTS

Base price (incl. destination): $39,000 (coupe/wagon) Type: Four-door sedan/wagon; two-door coupe Base engine (hp): 3.0-liter DOHC V6 (270); 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (304) Optional engines (hp): 3.6-liter V6 (304); 6.2-liter V8, (556) Layout: Front-engine, rear- /all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.)

MPG (city/hwy): 17/26 (base 3.6.)

Safety: Front, side-impact, side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control Weight (lb.): 3,845

to four passengers, each of whom is perched in a leathercovered bucket seat, separated by a neatly integrated floor console. To maintain its sports-luxury persona, the Coupe’s base engine is a 304-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 instead of the Overall: Cadillac is growing again as the CTS Coupe sedan’s base 270-horsepower 3.0. But for truly outstanding joins the Sedan and Sport Wagon for the 2011 model year; high-performance CTS-V version with its 556-horse performance, the Coupe can be had in CTS-V trim that includes a 556-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8 V8 now available in all three body styles. that comes from the CTS-V sedan. A six-speed manual Drivetrain: Duo of V6 engines has plenty of power for transmission is standard on both the CTS and CTS-V, while most folks, but there’s a huge gap to the CTS-V that a six- automatic with driver-controlled steering-wheeluses a Chevrolet-Corvette cam-in-block V8 engine that’s mounted shift buttons is available for both. All-wheel-drive boosted by a supercharger. is a $3,200 option for the V6 Coupe, but requires the automatic transmission. Standard content includes many ■ The new CTS Coupe probably won’t appreciate in value like a rare book or painting, but it does possess enough style of the features built into the sedan, but extras include to be considered a piece of rolling sculpture. It’s a derivative keyless access and remote push-button start as well as a performance suspension with 18-inch all-season tires. The of the CTS sedan, which is also the basis for the CTS Sport extensive list of available options includes 14-way adjustable Wagon spin-off introduced for the 2010 model year. Aside from a dramatic sweeping roof that abruptly ends just behind Recaro-brand front sport seats, premium leather and wood trim, backup camera and adaptive headlights that pivot in the rear wheels, equally distinctive is the Coupe’s lack of the direction that the car is turning. An up-level Bose-brand conventional door handles (replaced by a hidden electronic audio system includes a sizable 40-gigabyte computer hard touch pad) and hardtop styling with no pillar behind your drive for music storage. Buyers can opt for 19-inch summer left elbow. Compared to the sedan, the Coupe’s lowered tires that provide more road-holding while sharpening up the roofline means a two-inch reduction in height. Meanwhile, steering. There are also numerous technology updates to the overall length is, surprisingly, a mere two inches shorter CTS line for 2011 as well as free maintenance for four years. than the sedan. The Coupe provides enough space for up

BUICK

LaCrosse Overall: Buick’s luxury sedan is ready to tackle the world’s best, now with more economical standard engines.

Drivetrain: A new base 2.4-liter four-cylinder with four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing replaces the 3.0-liter V6; powerful 3.6-liter V6 is standard on the top-line CXS; all models have six-speed automatic transmissions.

Base price (incl. destination): $27,900 Type: Four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 2.4 liter DOHC I4 (182) Optional engine (hp): 3.6-liter DOHC V6 (280) Layout: Front-engine, front- /all-wheel-drive Transmission: Six-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy): 19/30 (2.4) Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control Weight (lb.): 3,830

■ Still basking in the afterglow of its 2010 debut, the LaCrosse builds on its success by becoming more easily attainable. For the 2011 model year, the entry-level LaCrosse gets a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder that replaces the old 3.0-liter V6, while top-line versions stick with the 3.6-liter V6. Both engines offer variable valve timing and a broad power range, but the new four-cylinder also features direct fuel injection for more power and fewer trips to the gas pumps. Direct fuel injection precisely sprays fuel directly into the combustion changes rather than farther upstream in the intake ports. Bottom line is that direct fuel injection means more complete burning of the fuel.

All models use smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmissions, and there’s optional all-wheel-drive that sends torque to whichever wheel has the most grip.

The LaCrosse is perhaps most appreciated inside where its beautifully detailed dashboard, console and controls are the best Buick has ever built. Among the options are a power sliding sunroof, heated cloth or leather front seats, steering-wheel-mounted audio and climate controls and numerous audio system upgrades, while decidedly non-Buick-like choices include heated and ventilated leather seats and dual rear DVD screens for passengers.

The well-equipped CX uses 17-inch wheels, but both 18-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels can be had; the CXL ups the driving experience even more with a real-time active dampening suspension that improves ride and handling.

The LaCrosse also boasts what Buick calls QuietTuning, which is a thorough effort to reduce unwanted noise, vibration and harshness. The result is an affordable family car with the refinement of a luxury car.

GMC

Sierra HD (New for 2011!)

Base price (incl. destination): $29,000 Type: Heavy-duty three-quarter/one-ton pickup Base engine (hp): 6.0-liter OHV V8 (360) Optional engine (hp): 6.6-liter OHV V8, turbo-diesel (397) Layout: Front-engine, rear- /four-wheel-drive Transmissions: Six-speed automatic MPG (city/hwy): n/a Safety: Front, side-impact and side-curtain airbags (2500 series only); anti-lock brakes; stability control (except dualie models) Weight (lb.): 5,810

package. HD trucks wearing the Denali badge as well as the rest of the Sierra HD lineup in regular-, extendedand crew cab styles can be had with a 360-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 (carried over from 2010), or an all-new 6.6-liter Overall: The Sierra firmly establishes itself as a premium turbo-diesel (preferred by the vast majority of Sierra truck brand with the addition of the Sierra Denali HD HD purchasers) that kicks out 397 horsepower and 765 model. pound-feet torque. Both engines are mated to six-speed Drivetrain: Carryover base 360-horsepower 6.0-liter automatic transmissions. With the right equipment, the HD gasoline V8; optional 6.6-liter turbo-diesel packs a can pull up to 21,700 pounds (the equivalent of nine Mini real wallop with 765 pound-feet of torque; six-speed Coopers or 3.5 million ping-pong balls). For added work transmissions for all. capability, the HD’s redesigned front suspension combined with its newly designed ladder frame increases the truck’s ■ The Denali name has, in the past decade, come front-axle weight rating to 6,000 pounds, which is enough to represent a luxury element applied to what would so that the optional snow plow accessory package can otherwise be more run-of-the-mill GMC work vehicles. now be added to all HD trucks equipped with four-wheelThis luxury philosophy, something not shared with its drive. At the opposite end, an all-new leaf spring results in Chevrolet Silverado stable mate, has been applied to a maximum gross rear axle weight rating of 6,200 pounds the brand’s hard-working 2500- (3/4-ton) and 3500- (one for 2500-series trucks (formerly 6,084 pounds) and up ton) heavy-duty pickup series. The Denali label, which is to 9,375 pounds for 3500-series trucks (formerly 8,200 assigned only to crew-cab body styles, includes a unique four-bar grille design with round air inlets, polished forged pounds). Along with the HD’s enhanced toting and hauling aluminum wheels, chrome exterior and interior trim, power- capacities, the newly standard 36-gallon-capacity fuel tank adjustable pedals, a Bose premium surround audio system means that turbo-diesel versions have a 680-mile cruising range. As is the case with all GMC pickups, the level of and 12-way power seats. For more dress-up cachet, an content, body and powertrain customization is practically optional heated steering wheel and heated and cooled limitless, guided only by your specific needs and budget. leather-appointed seating can be added to the Denali

2011 FEATURE

2011 FEATURE

CHEVROLET CRUZE

BUICK REGAL

The Cruze replaces the Cobalt as Chevrolet’s compact conveyance. It doesn’t stray too far from the Cobalt’s overall dimensions, but a two-inch gain in wheelbase combines with a nearly three-inch increase in width for a nine-percent bump in passenger room as well as a slightly larger trunk. Space gains aside, the Cruze’s design closely emulates that of other Chevy sedans, especially the mid-size Malibu’s horizontally split front grille and short rear deck. Fortunately, some extra creases along each side plus more pronounced fender flares provide a welcome dose of character that distinguishes the Cruze from the rest of the stable. A check of the interior reveals a highly attractive seating area that wouldn’t look out of place in a more expensive sedan. There are plastic pieces to be sure, but they’re more than offset by plenty of soft-touch coverings for the wraparound dashboard and silvery painted trim for the steering column, doormounted speaker surrounds, steering wheel and shifter. Given the added size and fancier seating area, it’s surprising that the Cruze’s standard and optional powerplants are so diminutive. The base LS is equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produces 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. Move up to the LT and LTZ you’ll get and a diminutive 1.4-liter turbocharged fourcylinder that’s also rated at 138 horsepower but with 25 poundfeet more torque. The 1.8 offers a choice of a six-speed manual transmission, or optional sixspeed automatic, while the 1.4 turbo is only available with the automatic. The Cruze features a class-leading total of 10 airbags, including driver and passenger-side knee airbags plus rear side-impact airbags. In addition, the standard stability control includes a rollover sensing program that will deploy the airbags if it detects the car is about to tip over. Notable options include a premium Pioneer-brand sound package, Bluetooth short-range wireless networking, navigation system, leather-covered seats (heated in front) and 17- or 18-inch wheels (16-inchers are standard). And you read it here first: a hatchback version of the Cruze should make an appearance for the 2012 model year.

The Euro-originating Buick Regal was created as the Opel Insignia and was judged good enough to capture the 2009 European Car of the Year award and might actually win a few trophies in North America as well. The automobile’s clean, yet expressive look is a far cry from just about any other Buick ever built. It’s in the same size range as the Acura TSX, Lincoln MKZ and Lexus IS 250. However, its trunk space and rear-seat legroom is significantly greater than in all three competitors. The mid-sized stance likely won’t win over many of the brand’s traditional large-car buyers, but the Regal stands a good chance of attracting younger shoppers with impressively shaped sheetmetal, jewel-like nose and restrained use of chrome trim.

The upscale European influence can be clearly seen inside with plenty of stitched leather and wood trim that’s offset by a tasteful amount of satin nickel brightwork on the door panels, steering wheel and center console.

The standard powerplant is a 182-horsepower 2.4-liter unit that originates from the Buick LaCrosse, while a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder packing an estimated 220 horsepower will be available partway through the model year. Both engines transmit their power to the front wheels by means of six-speed automatic transmissions. First-year Regals will be sold only as fully loaded CXL models, which means plenty of power-operated and luxury-oriented content will be part of the standard package, which is in keeping with the car’s entry-luxury status. A console-mounted control knob that operates the optional premium audio, navigation and Bluetoothenabled phone systems is available, as is the Interactive Drive Control System offered on turbo-equipped versions. This feature electronically adjusts the suspension travel and transmission shift points according to three different settings: Normal for all-around use; Tour for maximum passenger comfort; and Sport mode for maximum road holding.

The system also adapts to individual driving styles by altering the suspension, steering effort and throttle response.

6 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

THE REPORTER

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7 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010

NEW-VEHICLE PREVIEW GUIDE 2011

CX-7

MAZDA

Overall: It’s hard to believe it’s useful given how great the CX-7 looks; entry-level four-cylinder non-turbo model keeps the cost of admission in check.

Drivetrain: Very peppy four-cylinder for base models; familiar turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder adds V6-like gusto to the party.

Base price (incl. destination): $22,300 (2010); $26,550 (2.3, 2010) Type: Four-door compact tall wagon Base engine (hp): 2.5-liter DOHC I4 (161) Optional engine (hp): 2.3-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (244) Layout: Front-engine, front- /all-wheel-drive Transmissions: Five-speed automatic, six-speed automatic (2.3) Mileage (city/hwy): 20/28; 17/23 (2.3, FWD) Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; anti-lock brakes; stability control; traction control Weight (lb.): 3,500; 3,790 (2.3)

■ Now with even more reasons to invest, Mazda has taken its customers criticisms to heart about its price of entry for the gorgeous CX-7. It still makes a dramatic styling statement, staking out Mazda’s territory in the growing segment of all-weather wagons.

For 2010, in a move that was as much about increasing fuel economy as creating a new price-leading model, Mazda had installed its 161-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder as the base engine, relegating the oncestandard turbocharged 2.3-liter engine to the options sheet. The result had two key benefits, the first being a noticeable drop in base price (also caused by a decrease in the standard equipment), which puts the CX-7 more in line with entry wagons such as the Nissan Rogue. Also, base fuel economy was up by as much as 21 percent on

Mazda6

MAZDA

Overall: Mid-sized Mazda6 sedan checks in for mid-cycle improvements to fuel economy, exterior design and cabin comfort.

Drivetrain: Base 2.5-liter four-cylinder improves on its already stellar fuel economy for 2011; The 3.7-liter V6 from the CX-9 tall wagon is optional.

Base price (incl. destination): $19,200 (2010) Type: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive four-door sedan Base engine (hp): 2.5-liter DOHC I4 (170) Optional engine (hp): 3.7-liter DOHC V6 (272) Transmissions: Six-speed manual (2.5 only); five-speed automatic (opt. on 2.5); six-speed automatic (3.7) Mileage (city/hwy): 21/30 (MT) Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control.

Weight (lb.): 3,260

■ Styled with the RX-8 sports car in mind, the Mazda6 shows off some added jewelry for the 2011 model year with all-new headlights, fog-lights, folding mirrors with integrated turn signals, and redesigned 17-inch alloy wheels. None of that affects the accurate steering as well as suspension tuning that complements the 6’s sporty nature while creating a comfortable ride.

The base engine is a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Optional is a 3.7-liter V6 borrowed from the CX-9 tall wagon that produces 272 horses. The four-cylinder can be had with a six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic, while the V6 works exclusively with a six-speed automatic. Both have been warmed over to improve their fuel economy by one mpg in both the city and highway cycles.

Mazda3

MAZDA

Overall: The shock and awe of Mazda’s recent 3 redesign still resonates.

Drivetrain: Four-cylinder powerplants for all models, although the Mazdaspeed3’s 2.3-liter engine is turbocharged to the tune of 263 horses.

■ Mazda’s cure for economic depression? Take two perma-smile Mazda3s and call your dealer in the morning.

The lineup has been moderately altered for the 2011 model year. The sedan is offered in i SV, i Sport and i Base price (incl. destination): $16,200 Touring trims and runs with the same 148-horsepower Type: Four-door, front-wheel-drive compact sedan and wagon 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s connected to the Base engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cyl. (148); Optional engines five-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed (hp): 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cyl. (167); 2.3-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (263) automatic.

The Mazda3 “s” models, which include s Sport and s Transmissions: 5-speed manual (2.0); 6-speed manual Grand Touring sedan and wagon, have the exclusive use (std. on 2.5, Mazdaspeed3); 5-speed AT (opt.) of a 167-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder that’s derived Mileage (city/hwy): 25/33 (2.0, MT) from the larger Mazda6 sedan. Here, your transmission Safety: Front and side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); picks consist of a slick-shifting six-speed manual anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control gearbox or an optional five-speed automatic. All four Weight (lb.): 2,900 engine/transmission combos remain impressive and you

THE REPORTER the highway and 18 percent in the city when compared to the 244-horsepower turbo engine.

A five-speed automatic transmission comes with the 2.5 and a six-speed automatic belongs to the 2.3. While a front-wheel-drive affair with the 2.5, the only way you can get all-wheel-drive is if you order the turbo.

There are two trim levels with the 2.5 and two for the 2.3 turbo. The base model comes with all the power goodies, cloth seats, 17-inch wheels instead of 18s that were standard in 2010.

The new-for-2011 i Touring adds heated leather seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat, in-dash CD changer, power moonroof, climate control and a rear-view camera with in-cabin display. The turbo purchase includes all that stuff, too, while the top model comes with beautiful 19-inch wheels.

The interior gets new seat materials, a redesigned steering wheel and more expensive-looking trim. The lineup begins with the i SV that comes with air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, basic audio system, 16-inch wheels and six airbags.

Stability and traction control, which help prevent a skid or spin, is also part of the base package. The Sport adds automatic speed control, keyless remote entry and audio input jack for the stereo (for your portable music player), while the Touring edition bumps up the content with a keyless push-button starter, eight-way power driver’s seat, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, fancier gauges, sliding floor console armrest and 17-inch wheels.

The Grand Touring induces buyers with dual-zone climate control, heated leather seats and outside mirrors, poweradjustable passenger chair, rain-sensing wipers and xenon (very bright) headlights. Buyers also get a blind-spot monitoring system that detects traffic approaching from either side of the vehicle and cautions the driver by activating a warning buzzer and flashing lights on the exterior mirror. On the option list are 18-inch wheels, a moonroof, Bose-brand audio package and a navigation system that now comes with a rear-view camera and seven-inch touch screen, to name just a few of the goodies.

can expect a lively base engine, especially when coupled to the silky smooth stick shift.

The Mazdaspeed3 wagon is also back sporting its 263-horsepower 2.3-liter turbocharged engine. Here, drivers are treated to sportier looks, winder front fenders, hood scoop, bigger wheels and tighter seats.

The price-leader Mazda3 i SV sedan is somewhat content starved, but does include power windows and locks, six airbags, tilt/telescopic steering column and a four-speaker stereo with steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

The i Sport includes a few more goodies, but you have to move up to the i Touring for a reasonably full complement of standard equipment. The s Sport sedans and wagons feature a wealth of features and the s Grand Touring’s list of gear is highlighted by adaptive xenon headlights (they swivel left or right as the vehicle turns), rain-sensing wipers, a 265-watt 10-speaker surround sound system, moonroof, and eight-way power heated and leather-covered sport seats.

2011 FEATURE

2011 FEATURE

MAZDA CX-9

MAZDA2

Mazda has a two-pronged approach to sporty on-road biased tall wagons. If the five-passenger CX-7 wagon doesn’t offer enough passenger capacity for you, just add two digits to get seating for two more. And we’re not talking occasional seating for seven, but a full third-row seat for real, live, adult earthlings. While it would have been easy enough for Mazda to graft extra length and wheelbase to the CX-7 to create the CX-9 (and probably ruin the vehicle’s nearperfect proportions in the process) Mazda stylists were careful to make the CX-9 its own vehicle. The lines are a little less abrupt and exaggerated than those of the CX7, and the overall look is certainly more formal. The smaller CX-7 wears a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a five-speed automatic transmission. By contrast, the CX-9 comes with a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with improved fuel efficiency for 2011, as high as 17/24 mpg for frontdrive models (up from 16/22). While the CX-7 and 9 are visually similar, there’s not all that much — if anything — that interchanges, especially when it comes to the body. However, both are available in front or optional all-wheel-drive. The CX-9 is available in three trim levels — Sport, Touring and Grand Touring — with a healthy base features list that includes air conditioning, new-design 18-inch wheels and most power features.

Heading up the line adds leather, power liftgate, power seats, revised 20inch wheels, bright xenon headlamps and rains e n s i n g wipers.

The Mazda2 that arrived in North America in July is a stylish little hatchback that’s available only in one body style. Compared to the onesize-larger Mazda3 hatch/wagon, the Mexican-built Mazda2 is about 22 inches shorter, 2.5 inches narrower and it has six inches less distance between the front and rear wheels. Mazda’s corporate smiley-face grille is much in evidence along with some neatly creased and curvy body panels and a fashionably sculpted rear end. Cabin entry is through a set of wide front doors, while rear-seat access is a bit more awkward, but not a major impediment for average-sized adults. The 60:40 split-folding rear-bench doesn’t fold completely flat into the load floor, but still offers sufficient cargo room for luggage, camping gear and sports equipment, although a roofmounted rack might be necessary for skis, bikes or other bulkier objects.

The Mazda2 is equipped with a 100-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that’s connected to a five-speed manual transmission, or optional four-speed automatic. The base Sport arrives with air conditioning, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, four-speaker stereo system and power windows, locks and mirrors. The Touring adds cruise control, fancier seat covers, 15-inch alloy wheels (instead of steel on base cars), roof-mounted spoiler, leather wrapped steering wheel, and a six-speaker audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls. Among the few listed options are a center console with armrest and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass. There’s no sign of an available backup warning or navigation system or even a power sunroof on the option sheet, but that doesn’t mean that some of these, or additional items won’t eventually appear as options down the road.

8 | WEDNEsday, October 20, 2010

New-Vehicle Preview Guide 2011

THE REPORTER