1025 bg cover.qxp - Autoweek

AUTOWEEK < ’07 BUYERS GUIDE
HHR
HIGHLIGHTS Power increase in 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter engines.
BASE PRICE $16,390
WHAT’S NEXT Update will be seen in ’09.
OUR OPINION Intruding on PT Cruiser territory with plenty of cargo room.
IMPALA
HIGHLIGHTS Improved 3.9-liter engine with Active Fuel Management. The
3.5 gets flex-fuel capabilities. OnStar updated.
BASE PRICE $21,445
WHAT’S NEXT Uncertain. Will last though 2009, but a redesign may move it
to an rwd platform in 2010.
OUR OPINION Nipping at the heels of competitors in the highly competitive
midsize class.
MALIBU
HIGHLIGHTS The 3.5-liter gets variable valve timing. Dual-stage airbags
standard on all models. Maxx LT adds standard remote starter.
BASE PRICE $17,640
WHAT’S NEXT Maxx is dropped after 2007. Redesign next year with hybrid.
OUR OPINION Engine is a bit thrashy, but a competitive midsize entry.
MONTE CARLO
HIGHLIGHTS Satellite radio standard and Rally Stripe, optional on SS. The
3.5-liter engine gets flex-fuel capabilities. 3.9-liter V6 dropped.
BASE PRICE $21,445
WHAT’S NEXT Bows after 2008.
OUR OPINION Even with the V8, it doesn’t look or feel like a NASCAR racer.
AVALANCHE
HIGHLIGHTS Stronger GMT-900 platform yields better handling and a
smoother ride. Updated small-block V8s pack more power.
BASE PRICE $32,690
WHAT’S NEXT Hybrid model is expected.
OUR OPINION Bigger than Honda Ridgeline with similar adaptability.
COLORADO
HIGHLIGHTS New 2.9-liter, 185-hp I4 and 3.7-liter, 242-hp I5. Improved
gear shifts, revised interior, standard tire pressure monitoring.
BASE PRICE $14,495
WHAT’S NEXT Changes lie ahead for next year.
OUR OPINION Added power is nice, but still not as good as competition.
EQUINOX
HIGHLIGHTS Redesigned front and rear fascias, gauge cluster and
instruments. Four-wheel discs and StabiliTrak standard.
BASE PRICE $22,465
WHAT’S NEXT Redesigned in ’10 with possible third-row seating.
OUR OPINION One of the better car-based SUVs.
EXPRESS
HIGHLIGHTS 5.3-liter V8 is now standard. Flex-fuel offered.
BASE PRICE $22,660
WHAT’S NEXT Nothing major expected.
OUR OPINION Only good for passenger hauling or as a work vehicle.
SILVERADO
HIGHLIGHTS Three cab configurations: regular, extended and crew variants.
StabiliTrak is standard, and six small-block V8s are offered.
BASE PRICE $22,705
WHAT’S NEXT Refresh in 2010.
OUR OPINION Ready to face the challenge of the new Toyota Tundra.
SILVERADO CLASSIC
HIGHLIGHTS Recovery hooks standard on HD models.
BASE PRICE $16,740
WHAT’S NEXT Retirement.
OUR OPINION Unless you’re irrationally in love with this old truck or get a
barnburner of a deal, choose the new one.
HIGHLIGHTS
TAHOE
As with all GM’s new trucks, features Gen IV V8 engines,
stronger chassis and a more aerodynamic exterior.
BASE PRICE $34,190
WHAT’S NEXT Available hybrid powertrain for 2008.
OUR OPINION On par with the best competition, an American-sized SUV.
TRAILBLAZER
HIGHLIGHTS SS now now offers two equipment packages.
BASE PRICE $25,365
WHAT’S NEXT Eventually dropped from lineup.
OUR OPINION There are better and more economical alternatives.
UPLANDER
HIGHLIGHTS 3.9-liter, 240-hp V6 with variable valve timing is standard on
all models. StabiliTrak is added to extended-length models.
BASE PRICE $20,695
WHAT’S NEXT Dropped; replaced by a new SUV-like minivan in 2010.
OUR OPINION A half-hearted effort exposed by virtually all other minivans.
CHRYSLER
DaimlerChrysler Corp. chrysler.com
ASPEN
HIGHLIGHTS The first Chrysler-badged SUV is based on the Dodge
Durango. Standard is a 4.7-liter, 235-hp V8 while the 5.7-lite
335-hp Hemi V8 with MDS is available.
BASE PRICE $31,490
WHAT’S NEXT Makeover arrives in 2009.
OUR OPINION A lower-priced option in the large-ish luxury SUV segment.
300/300C/SRT8
HIGHLIGHTS Long-wheelbase 300 Touring and 300C rwd models.
Adaptive Cruise Control offered on Limited and 300C.
BASE PRICE $24,480
WHAT’S NEXT Wagon and diesel variants may appear; 2009 redesign.
OUR OPINION Our right foot likes the Hemi, but the V6 is adequate for mos
CROSSFIRE COUPE/ROADSTE
HIGHLIGHTS Numerous new safety features.
BASE PRICE $30,070
WHAT’S NEXT Design elements from Chrysler’s Firepower may end up on
a replacement after 2007; could be dropped entirely.
OUR OPINION Stylish and fun to drive; watch for overstock.com sales.
HIGHLIGHTS
SEBRING
New model promises more style, quality and value. Engines:
a base 2.4-liter, 172-hp I4; a 2.7-liter, 190-hp V6; and a
3.5-liter, 235-hp V6 found in Limited models.
BASE PRICE $18,995
WHAT’S NEXT A fresh convertible next year with soft-top and retractable
hard-top options.
OUR OPINION Design and powertrain variety make Sebring a contender.
PACIFICA
HIGHLIGHTS New front fascia, wheels, colors, instrument graphics, etc.
BASE PRICE $24,890
WHAT’S NEXT A major change lies ahead in 2010.
OUR OPINION Recommended for traveling families of four.