Ford:The Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid have a received a makeover for the 2008 model year. This consequently means that the Mazda Tribute has received the same treatment. The most significant changes have been in the aesthetics department for both the interior and the exterior. We now get better materials and electric-assist power steering. All three powertrains remain the same.
Also on hand is Ford's impressive Super Duty. Whether the customer chooses the F-250, F-350 or F-450, there is nothing that these trucks cannot do. Of special interest in the F-450 which constitutes the largest Super Duty ever built. Along with the arrival of the new pickups is a new Power Stroke Diesel which churns out 350 hp and 650 lb/ft of torque.
The Shelby GR-1 concept is a fastback coupe powered by 390 cubic inch 605-horsepower V10 engine. It is finished in hand polished aluminium and features doors that open butterfly-style, like the Lamborghini Murciélago. The cabin has special digital and analog gauges and a full race spec seats.
General Motors:With the Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia, GM is looking to make the full-size CUV segment their own. These 3 lambda platform-based crossover vehicles offer seating for 7 or 8 passengers. Powering these family movers is a 275 hp 3.6L V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations are available.
The 2008 Saturn VUE is a great looking compact SUV. This is the 4th vehicles in what is proving to be a very interesting revival in Saturn showrooms. Two GM V6 engines will be available with the new VUE. The 215 hp 3.5L and sophisticated 250 hp 3.6L will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The base VUE and Green Line will return with the same 2.4L ECOTEC.
The Pontiac Torrent GXP is another GM product that will reap the benefits of the 3.6L V6. In the Torrent, it will develop 263 hp. Visually, the Torrent GXP will stand out thanks to the addition of 18" alloy wheels, a sculpted hood, dual exhaust tips and a deeper set grille. The combination of a sport-tuned suspension, a 6-speed automatic transmission and performance 4-season tires will make this SUV a blast to drive. It will be available in either a FWD or AWD configuration.
The Camaro Concept has finally arrived in Montreal. This promising new sports coupe and convertible is scheduled for production sometime next year. Expect a base V6 model and a few high-performance V8s to make baby boomers heart rates rise. The new Camaro will be built in Ontario.
The General has also presented us a Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell. GM and Chevrolet are committed to launching the largest fleet of FCV in the World. By the fall of this year, 100 of them will be made available to specific customers.
