It seems as though $4 gasoline is having a big
effect on what people are choosing to drive. Auto
manufacturers are responding with a wider choice
of hybrids and smaller, gas-sipping product offerings.
Here’s what’s new for 2009. And if we’ve driven
them, we’ve rated them. Unless otherwise noted,
vehicles are available now.
Audi
Q5 - $34,000 (estimate)
This all-new compact-luxury crossover SUV is based on Audi’s A4/A5 platform and
is aimed to compete with BMW X3, Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLK. Available
early 2009. |
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Chevrolet
Camaro - $22,000 to $33,000 (estimate)
Gone since 2002, the Camaro returns with a ’60s retro look. It will be available
first as a hardtop; a convertible debuts later in the year. Given $4 gasoline,
time will tell if Chevy waited too long to capitalize on the original fervor.
Available early 2009. |
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Chevrolet
Traverse - $28,990
It’s Chevy’s answer to GM siblings, GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave
— in new clothing. All are built on the same platform and powered by the same
3.6-liter V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. Strong design cues
are lifted from the Malibu. |
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Dodge Journey (i) - $19,985 to $26,345
Dodge’s first foray into the crossover segment is targeted to a large segment
of buyers and enters an already crowded field. The real question is whether Journey
will be able to draw buyers away from the likes of Santa Fe, RAV-4, Honda CR-V
and Ford Edge. |
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Ford Flex (i) - $28,995 to $37,255
A modern-day take on the family station wagon of the ’60s, Flex draws plenty
of attention with its cool boxy style and impressive materials and build quality.
It’s a better alternative to a minivan or crossover vehicle. |
|
Hyundai
Genesis - $33,000 to $38,000
A first for the Korean manufacturer, an all-new full-size entry-level luxury
sedan takes aim at Lexus and the German brands with more power and loads more
standard equipment — for thousands less. Both should be worried, very worried. |
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Honda FCX
Clarity - $600/month (lease only)
The first of the fuel-cell era, a limited number (200 over the next three years)
will be available in the Los Angeles area. It’s expected to put up huge equivalent
EPA numbers (79 city, 68 highway mpg). |
|
Infiniti
FX50 - $40,950
Replaces the FX45 with new styling and a gas-guzzling 390-horsepower engine.
Looks terrific but ride is stiff and EPA estimates of 14 miles per gallon city
and 20 highway may limit appeal. |
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Infiniti
G37 - $34,000 to $41,000
Replaces the popular G35 and ups the horsepower to 330. A new hardtop convertible
is a first for the Infiniti brand. Available early 2009. |
 |
Jaguar
XF (i) - $49,975 to $62,975
A replacement for the discontinued S-Type, the sharp styling and striking interior
takes the Jaguar brand in a much-needed new direction. Finally, a Jag for the
younger crowd. |
|
Kia Borrego - $26,995 to $31,745
The biggest Kia ever — and the first with a V-8 — seats seven and is meant to take
on the Ford Explorer. Now that’s what I call arriving late to the party. |
|
Kia Soul -
$12,800 (estimate)
With Scion-like appeal and ground breaking new styling, Kia’s mini crossover
will actually be a 2010 model. Distinctive styling is a welcome look to a stodgy
brand. Available spring 2009. |
 |
Lincoln
MKS - $38,465 to $40,355
A full-size sedan built on the same platform as Volvo S80 and Ford Taurus, MKS
comes loaded with standard equipment and best-in-class interior and cargo room.
A 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 is the only available engine. |
|
Mercedes-Benz
GLK - $38,000 (estimate)
A 2010 model, the smallest three-point star SUV is based on the C-Class architecture
and will compete with BMW X3, and Audi’s new Q5. Available January 2009. |
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Nissan
Cube - $16,000
Timing seems perfect for this roomy, gas-sipping wagon, with plenty of personality
to add to the appeal. This cool boxy square wagon will be a 2010 model. Available
spring 2009. |
 |
Pontiac
Solstice Coupe - $26,500 (estimate)
Pontiac adds a removable hardtop to the Solstice, but the lift-off top won’t
fit in the too-small trunk. Available February 2009. |
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Suzuki
Equator -$17,000 - $23,000
Suzuki’s new pickup is basically a re-badged Nissan Frontier. It will come in
two bed lengths, two engine choices and extended and crew cab versions. Available
December 2008. |
|
Toyota
Venza - $23,000 to $25,000
Yet another SUV from Toyota, who believes you can never have too many in the
lineup. The five passenger Venza is slotted to fit between the RAV4 and Highlander.
Available December 2008. |
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Volkswagen
Routan- $24,700
Sadly, VW foregoes its stylish concept Microbus prototype and opts to re-badge
a Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country, adding VW front and rear styling. |
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Volkswagen
Tiguan (i) -$23,200
VW’s new crossover takes aim at the likes of Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford
Escape. Available in front- or all-wheel drive, a diesel version may come next
year. |
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Volvo XC60 - $32,000 (estimate)
The all-new five-seat mid-size crossover will compete with BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz
GLK and Audi Q5. It’s available with one powertrain: a turbo six-cylinder and
a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Available March 2009. |
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What’s
Green:
Hybrid versions of the following vehicles will be available for the first time
in 2009:
Cadillac Escalade
Chevrolet Silverado
Chrysler Aspen
Dodge Durango
GMC Sierra |
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What’s
Out:
The following vehicles have been discontinued for the 2009 model year:
Audi RS4, S4
BMW Alpina B7, Z4 Coupe, Z4 M
Chevrolet Uplander
Chrysler Crossfire, Pacifica, PT Cruiser convertible
Dodge Magnum
Ford Mustang Shelby GT
Hyundai Tiburon
Infiniti FX45, G35
Lincoln Mark LT
Jaguar S-Type, X-Type
Pontiac Grand Prix
Toyota Camry Solara
Suzuki Forenza, Reno |
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