The 2008 model year of the Volkswagen Touareg, the first ever sport utility vehicle (SUV) model from the Wolfsburg-based car manufacturer is making its North American debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show.

Named as the Touareg 2, the vehicle is poised to stir the American car fans at the show with the vehicle’s updated exterior styling featuring the company’s signature Volkswagen “face” design highlighted by the chrome front grille. Other exclusive features of the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 include redesigned headlamps and darkened taillights, redesigned aerodynamics, sporty rear spoiler with integrated third brake light, optional Bi-Xenon headlights with AFS II that improves night time driving visibility in cornering, and several wheel options for different VW Touareg 2 model trims. For the VR6 FSI, 17-inch alloy wheels are standard while the 19-inch alloy wheels are standard for the V8 FSI and V10 TDI Twin Turbo models. Moreover, the 2008 VW Touareg comes with all-new exterior colors for the customers to choose from. It includes Alaska Gray, Cranberry, Galapagos and White Gold.

Interior highlights of the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 include redesigned luxury seating system featuring standard 12-way power driver’s seat, standard Sirius Satellite Radio, park distance control, power lift gate, new instrument cluster with larger display, new silver metallic trim, available ten speaker Dynaudio premium sound system, and optional keyless access with a start/stop button. Bunch of optional packages are also available like the Lux, Lux Plus and Technologie packages.

The VW Touareg 2 also comes with a host of safety features and driver assistance systems to enhance the vehicle’s handling. These include new rollover sensor system to detect rollover situation and activate the side and side head curtain airbags, enhanced tire pressure monitoring system (TPS), Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), hydraulic braking assist, a preventative braking pressure build-up system, and rain brake support. In addition, the Touareg 2 also comes with the world-first “ABSplus” braking system from Volkswagen.

At the heart of the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 comes a three power plant options for the customers to choose from: the powerful 3.6-liter VR6 FSI, the recently upgraded 4.2- liter V8 FSI, and the monstrous 5.0-liter V10 TDI Twin Turbo.

The 3.6-liter VR6 FSI engine replaces the standard 3.2-liter engine of the Volkswagen Touareg. The engine now produces 280 hp, an additional 40 horsepower compared to the previous engine. The 4.2- liter V8 FSI features unleaded fuel direct injection system and pumps out 350 hp and produces 325 lbs. ft amount of peak torque. Lastly, the 5.0-liter V10 TDI Twin Turbo for the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 pumps out 310 hp and produces a stunning 553 lbs. ft. of peak torque output, allowing the Touareg 2 to achieve an impressive towing capability of about 7,716 pounds. All of these engines are equipped with quality VW timing parts like VW timing chain. The Touareg 2’s standard gearbox powers the vehicle’s permanent 4XMOTION four-wheel drive (4WD) system. Moreover, the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 also features off-road control systems like Hill Roll Back Assist and Hill Descent Assist.

The 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 2 will arrive in Volkswagen dealerships this spring carrying a base manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $39,320.

Benjamin Hudson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/2008-volkswagen-touareg-2-us-debut-in-new-york-130163.html

Though the 2008 Pontiac G8 will be available in dealerships early next year, Pontiac introduced its all-new, rear-wheel-drive performance sedan at the Chicago Auto Show.

As the first North American application of General Motors (GM) new global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the G8 is developed by GM’s Australian subsidiary Holden.

The G8 has a styling packages such as a dual-port grille, fog lamps, bold wheels and a confident, wheels-at-the-corners stance. The design accents the car’s performance lineage, with fenders that flare over the wheels, seemingly hugging the wide tires, making it very sporty.

Distinctive elements include hood scoops and front fender vents, and projector-beam headlamps housed in crystal-clear lenses. Jewel-like tail lamps are found at the rear. These are mounted in housings and feature bright detail work surrounding the red lighting elements. G8 models all have red tail lamp lenses and twin chrome exhaust outlets. At the rear of the roof, all models have a mounted antenna.

On its power train,

the base G8 model has a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing. Rated at 261 horsepower (194 kW), it is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.

Combined to give the G8 a confident, sharp driving experience are the 114.8-inch (2915 mm) wheelbase, 62.7 inches / 1592 mm wide front and 63.3 inches / 1608 mm rear tracks. These give a fully adjustable, four-wheel independent suspension system.

In the rear, the four-wheel independent suspension system has a MacPherson strut design in the front and a four-link coil-over-shock design. Tuning uses a direct-acting front stabilizer bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear suspension. This system transcends increased lateral stiffness for enhanced handling.

The front suspension features fully adjustable caster, camber and toe while the rear suspension has fully adjustable camber and toe, which enables more precise, tailored suspension tuning.

When starting the engine, the brand assured that the Pontiac exhaust will release gases smoothly, making it more comfortable for the driver as well as the persons outside the car who will breathe in the exhausted gases.

As to its four-wheel disc brake system, the car has standard anti-lock and traction control features. The system is partnered with a standard electronic stability control system. Its features vented front and rear disc rotors, with twin-piston alloy calipers in front. The rear brakes feature alloy calipers with single-piston actuation.

The G8’s interior delivers both comfort and convenience, packaged in a level of sophistication not often found in other cars within its price range. A driver-oriented instrument cluster positions the gauges for easy, direct line of sight. Between the large, round tachometer and speedometer, an electronic driver information center is located.

Attention catcher details include jewel-like instruments, selective use of satin and chrome trim and rich-feeling, grained textures throughout. The instrument cluster glows with crisp. While white light on the primary instruments and Pontiac’s signature red lighting enlightens the rest of the instrument panel cluster.

The seats offer firm support to hold passengers and occupants in place during aggressive cornering. As an option, the G8 models will also offer two-tone cloth or leather combination that pairs black with either red or blue inserts and color-matched instrument faces on certain exterior color combinations.

With an all-new Pontiac exhaust system, G8 uses 362-horsepower (270 kW) 6.0L V-8 engine and optional six-speed manual transmission.

Pontiac General Manager John Larson said the company’s commitment to its performance DNA is showed in the balance of rear-wheel drive and the availability of V-8 power in G8. He further said they expect this vehicle to be very competitive in the segment where it belongs, even against cars that cost far more expensive.

Jerick Brooks
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/allnew-pontiac-g8-to-unleash-in-2008-134939.html

Toyota has been successfully doing business in the US for almost 50 years. In connection with their celebration of their 50th year of operations in the United States auto jungle, they will be producing a limited number of Camry Hybrid units which will be sent out on sale March. The said Camry Hybrid will boast of features which are not present on any other production Camry. The company may have chosen to produce a Camry in their celebration of 50 years of business in the United States because the Camry is their best selling car in their lineup. The fact that they are producing a hybrid shows where the company is headed and this can be compared to a Volvo turn signal which shows where the car is heading – the hybrid shows that Toyota is dedicated to producing environment friendly cars in the future.

Some of the features that the Camry Hybrid 50th Anniversary Edition will have are a new and stunning paint color and a unique set of wheels. The Camry Hybrid will sport a Blizzard Pearl paint which makes it looks cool and stylish. It will also sport 16-inch alloy wheels with a graphite finish and it looks like the set of wheels increase the already high aesthetic value of the car. The cars will also sport 50th Anniversary Edition badges that will not appear on any other models. To further add to the sophistication of the car, a power moonroof is provided. Heated power outside mirrors is also part of the package.

Aside from the fuel efficiency that hybrids are known for, another good selling point for the Camry Hybrid 50th Anniversary Edition is its luxurious interior. The inside of the Camry Hybrid is trimmed in leather and this in itself gives the interior of the car a luxurious feel to it. The special edition Camry will be equipped with a voice-activated DVD navigation system to provide great entertainment for its occupants. The DVD player has a four-disc changer capability. The front seats of the Camry are heated for the driver and front passenger’s comfort. The Camry also has a carpeted cargo mat, brushed stainless dash, illuminated front door sills, and carpeted floor mats with yet the 50th Anniversary Edition logo emblazoned on it.

The Camry Hybrid is already one of the most popular choices for city dwellers, thanks to its real great fuel economy. Not only is its fuel economy the reason why people opt for the Camry Hybrid. The car has a good handling and suspension system, thanks to the design of the frame and the body of the car. With a wide array of safety features, the Camry is also a top choice for those who are looking for safety features when buying a car. And with the upcoming production of this special edition car, the public will surely welcome the release of the vehicle.

These special edition vehicles will be manufactured at Toyota’s Kentucky assembly plant. Only 3,000 units of the vehicles will be produced which will give the model a higher value in the market. Toyota has placed a $31,680 price tag on the 50th Anniversary Edition vehicles.

The release of the Camry Hybrid to celebrate the 50th year of Toyota doing business in the US shows that in the future they will be providing more energy efficient cars for the public. With the success of Toyota for the past 50 years in the US, they have overtaken Chrysler as the third largest car manufacturer in the US and they are even poised to take over the number two spot from Ford. They are also quickly closing the gap between them and General Motors which currently claims the spot of being the largest car manufacturer in the world.

Glady Reign
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/camry-hybrid-50th-anniversary-edition-to-hit-showrooms-in-march-108266.html

If there are adjectives to describe the Mercedes Brabus Widestar it’s going to be –sporty and dynamic, exclusive and powerful. This special model is based on the Mercedes ML 63 which has made its debut at the 2007 Geneva Motors Show.

The new Brabus Widestar offers a refreshing and exciting wide track version of the Mercedes ML 63 SUV with its Monoblock E 23-inch forged wheels and Brabus B63 S performance tuning that produces 550 hp/404.8 kW.

The Widestar concept is not only applicable for the Brabus but also to other current M-Class models that combine vibrant looks with a high level of functionality. The graceful flow of lines of the fender flares both at the front and back increases the vehicle’s width by four centimeters which in turn enhances the vehicle’s appearance.

The wider track of the Brabus boosts handling performance. The multi-piece Brabus Monoblock E wheels with size 11Jx23 were specially modified for the wide track version of the M-Class. The forged wheel center creates a symbiosis of strength and light-weight design. Its new light alloy wheels are mounted with high performance tires in size 315/25 R 23.

The sporty road handling qualities of the Brabus is brought about by its 30 millimeters lowered ride height caused by the control module for the standard AIRMATIC air suspension. The body conversion of the Brabus includes add-on parts for the doors and rocker panels that results to a uniform transition between the fender flares. The complete front and rear fascias replace their production front and back counterparts.

The Brabus front spoiler bumper with its three striking air inlets and four integrated auxiliary headlight minimizes lift on the front axle. The combination of the rear spoiler, the rear fascia with integrated diffuser and the cutouts for the four chrome tailpipes of the Brabus’ stainless-steel sport exhaust system creates a flawless aerodynamic balance.

The well balanced aerodynamic properties of the Brabus Widestar would serve the perfect platform for a tuned version of the ML 63. The Brabus motor engineers are developing the tuned version of the ML 63 using the B63 S performance kit.

The production V8 engine that is equipped on the Brabus Widestar delivers 510 hp/ 375 kW. It is modified using sport air filters and high-performance metal catalysts combined with newly programmed engine electronics that comes complete with custom mapping for ignition and injection. All these factors increase power output by 40 hp/31 kW to 550 hp/404.8 kW. And together they produce a peak torque that increases from 630 Nm to 650 Nm.

The Brabus Widestar can reach 0 to 100 km/h in a matter of 4.9 seconds. Its Brabus V/max unit boosts the top speed from 250 km/h to 275 km/h. And if there is one thing that Mercedes-Benz can be proud of its in terms of safety features. The Brabus Widestar with a high-performance brake system with components such as Mercedes brake pads, 12piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeters discs on the front axle. There is also a 355 x 28 mm Mercedes brake pad and 6-piston fixed calipers in the rear which gives the Brabus an impressive stopping power likened to those purebred sport cars.

The Brabus Widestar is also given exclusive interior options which features stainless-steel door sills with illuminated Brabus logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and upgraded factory leather-covered door trim pieces made from meticulously crafted combinations of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The production front seats are equipped with special rear consoles that extend all the way to the headrests and housed a seven-inch 16:9 LCD screens which is integrated in a DVD player. An electric folding table made from precious wood is also available as an option.

Dwyane Thomas
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/mercedesbenz-brabus-widestar-unveiled-116616.html

Volkswagen has always been successful with special edition vehicles in the past. Take for instance the Wolfsburg limited edition Cabriolets and Trek mountain bike Jettas that have both been strong products of Volkswagen. Right now, the automaker is looking into the possibility of further boosting some of that limited edition glory with four new offerings.

The Wolfsburg Limited Edition Jetta is basically a 2.5 L Jetta with an assortment of popular options like 16-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof and a cold-weather package and priced at almost $2,000 lower than a similarly equipped Jetta. And in keeping with the tradition of the automaker in creating quality vehicles, the Jetta is equipped with only the best Volkswagen Jetta parts.

The prices for the Wolfsburg limited edition are $19,360 for the manual and $20,435 for the automatic. The limited edition part is also offered in a one-of-a-kind badging and five color choices.

Europe’s largest automaker will also introduce limited nameplate, Fahrenheit — which will be used for both the GTI hatchback and the GLI sedan. Only 1,200 of each are going to be created and they will come in unique, one-off colors. Fahrenheit orange for the GTI and Fahrenheit yellow for the GLI—both will feature 18 inch wheels, heated leather seats and a sunroof. The pricing for the DSG transmission GTI is $27,665 while the GTI is priced at $27,880 for the manual and $28,955 for the automatic.

Completing the foursome is a Triple White New Beetle. Why Triple White? Because of its white paint job, white convertible roof and white interior. According to Volkswagen only 3,000 of these white Beetles are to be produced. They will come with 17 inch alloy wheels and leatherette seats. Plus, it’s going to be offered only with an automatic transmission and priced at $25,990.

Volkswagen’s Weird Offerings

In marketing, business various promotional schemes are employed using concepts that will effectively represent the products. But not Volkswagen, in one of its most bizarre marketing stratagems ever, it has announced recently that any customer that purchases or leases a 2007 Jetta, Jetta GLI, GTI, Rabbit, New Beetle and New Beetle Convertible will receive a custom guitar that can play through the car’s audio system.

The Volkswagen’s guitars that are to be given away are custom made to match the car itself. The guitars come in the same color and has the car’s Vehicle Identification Number displayed on it. That is in addition to the various Volkswagen emblems.

The automaker’s marketing campaign featured rocker Slash and sort-of rocker John Mayer.

Natalie Anderson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/volkswagen-to-launch-wolfsburgs-new-special-edition-vehicles-103069.html

The sedan is one of the most common automobile body styles both in the United States and other parts of the globe. Being popular among consumers, car manufacturers produce more and more of these to meet the demand of car buyers.

The huge production of sedans leads to a very competitive sedan market. Because of that competition, car manufacturers always come up with improvements on their sedans year after year. It is not surprising that the popular Toyota Camry is now in its sixth generation of redesign. For the 2007 model year, the Japanese outfit redesigned the Camry aiming for an increased sale.

The Toyota Camry is the best selling sedan in the United States for nine out of the past ten years starting in 1997. Toyota reported to have sold an average of 400,000 units of the Camry every year for the past ten years. And to continue their dominance, Toyota has improved the Camry’s styling to appeal even to younger consumers.

One of the most notable changes in the Toyota Camry is its exterior design. The 2007 Camry now sports a fresh design on its nose accentuated by the Toyota logo on its tip. The headlamps are also redesigned to give the Camry a friendlier look. The styling cues have been redesigned to attract the younger car buyers who are aesthetically tuned with regards to cars. In fact, the Camry’s redesigned exterior style reduced its coefficient of drag to just 0.28 and that is almost the same as that of sports car.

As can be expected from Toyota, the redesigned Camry is loaded with advanced features. The top of the line trim package, the XLE, has a long list of features car buyers would surely love. The XLE enables the vehicle to come equipped with a V6 engine which provides adequate power for an all around car. The Toyota Camry’s performance can further be enhanced with the use of aftermarket parts such as Jet chips cold air intake systems.

Facilitating the smooth transfer of power from the engine to the drive wheels is a precision engineered six-speed automatic transmission. The gearbox delivers that power to the 16-inch alloy wheels with disc brakes and an anti-lock braking system to boot.

Added features includes integrated fog lamps, halogen automatic headlights, power and heated outside mirrors, a dual exhaust with chrome tips, a sliding center arm rest, power driver and passenger leather seats, a dual zone climate control system, rear vents and ionizer, as well as a cruise control. Aside from that, the 2007 Camry is also equipped with JBL premium 8-speaker, a digital sound system with MP3, Bluetooth access, and in-dash 8-disc CD player for entertainment. Safety is also given attention with Toyota giving the Camry at least nine airbags. The complete lineup of airbags includes one for the driver’s knees. All in all, the 2007 Toyota Camry is one of the leaders in the sedan market in the United States.

Lauren Woods
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/sixth-generation-camry-for-2007-132226.html

The first ever SUV that Volkswagen manufacturer of high quality VW fan has restyled for the 2008 model year is returning as the Touareg 2. The updated version is scheduled to hit showrooms later this spring and will feature an updated exterior styling, additional list of safety features and vehicle capabilities, plus three powerful engine options.

The Touareg 2 made its official debut at the New York International Auto Show. Its base price is $39,320. This new Touareg has derived its design cues from the other Volkswagen model lineup. Its exterior styling reflects the brand’s signature design with its new Volkswagen face particularly its chrome front grille.

The Touareg 2 was also given a redesigned aerodynamic and sporty rear spoiler with integrated third brake light. The other distinctive features of the new redesigned Touareg includes 17-inch alloy wheels, standard on the VR6 FSI, and 19-inch alloy wheels, standard on the V8 FSI and V10 TDI Twin Turbo models. It also has redesigned darkened taillights and headlamps, redesigned luxury seating system with standard 12-way power driver’s seat, and a four all-new exterior color options such as Alaska Gray, Galapagos, Cranberry, and White Gold.

The Touareg 2 also boasts of its three engine options with the VR6 FSI and V8 FSI upgraded. The Touareg’s 3.2 liter VR6 has been changed with a more potent 3.6 liter VR6 FSI which revs up an extra 40 horsepower delivering 280 hp of power. The FSI technology on the other hand has considerably improved the driving performance of the Touareg 2. Such significant performance upgrade is always followed by an increase in torque power.

The upgraded 4.2 liter V8 FSI is the first 8 cylinder Volkswagen engine with unleaded fuel direct injection producing an impressive 350 horsepower, an extra 40 hp than the previous V8, and 325 lbs. ft. of torque. The new Touareg’s 5.o liter V10 TDI Twin Turbo offering produces 310 horsepower and 553 lbs. ft. of torque. All of three engine options of the Touareg offer an amazing towing capacity of 7,716 pounds.

The Touareg 2 is also loaded with various safety and handling features such as the new rollover sensor system which records both turning angle as well as turning speed in order to determine whether the vehicle is likely to rollover. The rollover sensor also works in combination with the airbag control device to activate the side and side head curtain airbags in case a rollover accident happens.

The new Touareg is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system that notifies the driver of any changes in the tire pressure. This particular system is offered as a standard feature of the vehicle. The other safety features that are equipped in the Touareg 2 includes an Electronic Stabilization Program innovations comprising of the hydraulic braking assist, rain brake support, and an under steering control logic system that enhance the behavior of the car in times of under steering.

The Touareg 2 also offer a world’s first “ABSplus” braking system which is a patented system developed by Volkswagen to shorten the braking distance by up to 20 percent especially on loose roadbeds wherein it pushes a portion of the road material under temporary locked wheels to form a chock. This type of innovation is the first of its kind in the world and offered as an exclusive feature of the Touareg 2.

The new Touareg 2 includes a noteworthy array of vehicle capabilities such as the four-wheel-drive system 4XMOTION™ that boost traction on virtually any surface. The Hill Roll Back Assist and Hill Descent Assist features help to stabilize the new Touareg during off-road ventures. The standard independent suspension and improved axle pitching further allow the new Touareg to achieve 33 degree approach and departure angles, climbing capability at 45 degrees, 35 degrees lateral inclination, adjustable air suspension and up to 23-inch fording depth with the optional air suspension.

The Touareg 2 also feature SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio, power liftgate, park distance control, new instrument cluster with large display, and a new silver metallic trim standard on the VR6 FSI. The new Touareg is available with all-new Lux, Technologie and Lux Plus option packages. These packages further enhance the new Touareg including the ten speaker Dynaudio premium sound system, keyless access with a start/stop button, and Bi-Xenon headlights with AFS II which help improve night time vision and enhance the driver’s ability to make turns by allowing them to see into the curve.

Benjamin Hudson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/the-touareg-2-up-close-130114.html

Volkswagen Touran, the German automaker’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) is getting a new variant to add up to its model lineup. The Volkswagen Touran will have a crossover variant called the CrossTouran, which is the third crossover model of Volkswagen.

According to a Volkswagen Group press release: “Volkswagen is extending its line-up of distinctive Cross Models, effective immediately, to include a third level: The CrossTouran. As on the successful CrossPolo and CrossGolf models introduced at the beginning of the year, the CrossTouran is also characterized by wrap-around, robust guard strips, powerful wheel arches, modified bumpers and newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels. Fitting into its powerful appearance is the chassis that was elevated by approx. twelve millimeters. Thanks to its roomy interior it comes highly recommended as an ideal companion for uncomplicated transport of mountain bikes, hang gliders, or any kind of sporting equipment. Aside from all of its practical aspects, the new van with its individual outfit offers an alternative to all those who like things sportier and earthier.”

New distinctive features for the new Volkswagen CrossTouran are noticeable. On the front fascia, the vehicle is equipped with “Matte chrome” insignia radiator grille along with black headlamp housings, black guard strips, redesigned bumper, standard fog lamps, and distinctive Black grained trim covers in the spoiler area. The Volkswagen CrossTouran also gets black body trim around the doors, rocker panels and fender flares. At the back, the Volkswagen CrossTouran has by taillights with dark lamp bodies and wrap-around black trim on the bumpers. The CrossTouran also has a 17-inch “Funplay” type alloy wheels and 215/50 R 17 tires for the vehicle to ride on.

On the inside, the Volkswagen CrossTouran features a variable, comfortable, and spacious interior. High quality materials, textures, and color schemes are also highlighted on the CrossTouran’s overall interior feel. A host of standard and functional interior amenities is offered including practical storage pockets on the backs of the front seats, center armrest in front with storage box, drawers under the front seats, an additional 12-Volt outlet in the rear section of the center console. These features are also found on the VW Touran Trendline model. In addition, leather time parking brake lever handle and gearshift knob is also included in the interior package along with three-spoke steering wheel stainless steel plates, and dual-tone horn. Other interior features include climate control system (Climatic), electric window lifts, cargo covers, six airbags, RCD 300 MP3-capable radio with CD player and a speed control system, and a front passenger seat back that folds completely for stowing long cargo items.

Moving on the technical side, Volkswagen offers a wide option of engine types for the CrossTouran ranging from petrol, TSI, and TDI diesel engines. These include: 1.6 with 75 kW / 102 PS; TSI with 103 kW / 140 PS; TSI with 125 kW / 170 PS; 1.9 TDI with 77 kW / 105 PS; 2.0 TDI with 103 kW / 140 PS; and 2.0 TDI with 125 kW / 170 PS. These engines are combined with either 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox as a standard powertrain feature or an optional dual clutch transmission (DSG). Other powertrain and suspension parts include Volkswagen spark plugs, quality chassis system, and Volkswagen’s patented Park Assist system.

Natalie Anderson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/vw-crosstouran-volkswagens-newest-crossover-model-118700.html

This year, Swedish automaker Saab celebrates its diamond anniversary. And to commemorate such important event, the Swedish automaker has offered 60th Anniversary Editions of its 9-3 and 9-5 models for the 2007 model year which are already distributed at various dealerships. The 9-3 special editions are available in sedan, wagon (SportCombi), and convertible body styles that get their foundation on the base 2.0T trim. The 9-3 Saab editions are powered by a 2.0-liter 210 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a standard six-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic.

The Swedish automaker wants to make value of an important part of the 9-3 equation and to accomplish this, the Aero models which are powered by a 2.8 liter turbo V6 with a price of $33,545 were ruled out. Replacing them were the 9-3 Anniversary Editions that are equipped with new five-spoke 17 inch alloy wheels, dark walnut trim, black floor mats with grey binding, premium audio with XM Satellite Radio and a six-disc changer, dual-power front seats, front fog lamps, and black leather sport seats with grey inserts complete with SAAB embossments. In addition, the 9-3 sedan and convertible will get a top-of-the-line GM bumper plus a body-color trunk lid spoiler. The base prices for the 9-3 Anniversary Editions are $28,820 for the sedan, $40,065 for the convertible and $30,065 for the wagon.

The 9-5 Anniversary Editions are available in sedan and wagon body styles. And if for the 9-3 Anniversary Editions, Saab ruled out its Aero models for the 9-5 it’s entirely the opposite since the automaker decided to start with the Aero premium versions which are equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, metallic interior trim, leather sport seats, plus a complimentary two-day package at the Saab Aero Academy at the Road Atlanta race course.

The 9-5 Anniversary Editions is packed with all the features found on the 9-3 Editions plus more since it has a Visibility Package consisting of Saab parking Assistance, xenon headlamps, auto dimming outside mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers. The SportCombi models also get a chrome aircraft-shaped handle in the cargo floor and chrome roof rails that are offered as an option. It is powered by a 2.3 liter 260 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder that can be paired with a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. The 9-5 Anniversary Edition sedan has a retail price of $38,130 while the SportCombi is priced at $39,130.

All the Anniversary Editions Saabs are available in special Ice Blue Metallic exterior finish or customers may choose from the other six metallic exterior colors available at no extra charge. Aside from all the remarkable features that the 60th Anniversary Editions possess, Saab’s outstanding safety features, complimentary maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles, and GM’s stellar 5 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty makes the Anniversary Saab Editions a must-have.

Natalie Anderson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/saab-and-its-60th-anniversary-edition-vehicles-110260.html

A brand new 2008 C-Class Mercedes-Benz which was unveiled last month in Stuttgart, Germany is due to arrive in showrooms in September. The new C-Class is loaded with features that customers would like. The question now is what happens to the old C-Class? Mercedes models do not grow old but instead transcends time just and the new 2008 C-Class simply demonstrates the evolution that the C-Class has undergone over time.

It is natural that buyers would prefer the new model over the old fortunately Mercedes Canada has devise a marketing strategy that would not cause to much consternation among the brand faithful. What Mercedes Canada did was to make the C-Class such a terrific value that people would surely go craving for the said model regardless of whether it’s the new C-Class or a much older model.

A sample of such marketing strategy was employed for the C280 Avantgarde Edition which the sales brochure described having “spectacular performance, unprecedented value, and of course, the superb level of luxury you expect from Mercedes-Benz.”

And just what makes the C280 Avantgarde such a great buy? It is equipped with $6,000 worth of features added by Mercedes-Benz and amazingly at no additional cost. Such features include: sliding glass sunroof, power steering column and 10 way power adjustable driver’s seat with three position memory, Harman/kardon Logic7 surround-sound system, MP3 compatible six-disc CD changer, 17 inch seven spoke aluminum alloy wheels and metallic paint. The C280 is also equipped with quality Mercedes auto components such as a Mercedes muffler that reduces the noise produced by the explosive combustion of fuel.

The truth of the matter is that the C-Class is one of the rare cars that wear its age very well. Its subtle wedge shape and fluid lines which were updated two years ago were able to keep up their fresh and classy feel which makes most of its rivals to look nouveau riche.

The new C280 reflects the maturity in Mercedes’ approach to the luxury, sporty sedan segment. This special compact four-door has a natural conservative streak that most of it rivals like the notable BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 don’t possess. Sadly despite the 228 horsepower, 3.0 liter DOHC V6 under its hood, performance doesn’t come naturally. And because of this, Mercedes Benz has decided to equip the C280 with a seven-speed transmission in automatic which enables the car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.3 seconds.

Unfortunately, the C280’s sporting mode is inhibited by the gear selector’s side-to-side actuation. Similarly the forward to upshift and backward to downshift is far more intuitive. A word of caution for those planning to purchase a C280 never try to chase Bimmers and Audis especially on twisty back roads since the suspension of the C280 is made more for comfort and not for sport.

But in fairness to the C280 it’s not that bad on winding roads it’s just that it tends to eat up a huge amount of road space on major highways at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour. The cabin is conservatively upscale with emphasis on passenger comfort. The seating position is remarkably comfortable and supportive in all the right places. Plus it’s quite spacious with plenty of legroom. It also has Harman/kardon surround sound system for the passengers listening pleasure.

Dwyane Thomas
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/mercedes-c280-because-you-want-more-value-123822.html