2006 Ford Fusion - Easily the Best Domestic Midsize Entry |
| This is the best sedan Ford has ever made, bar none. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada) |
No one knows whether the all-new Fusion will do for Ford what the Taurus did when it was introduced in the '80s, but even some of the Dearborn-based brand's competitors are pulling for the car to be a sales success. And after driving it I can't see why it won't be extremely popular, especially factoring in its unique and attractive front end styling, accommodating extremely well-executed interior, and refined performance. Derived from Mazda's popular 6, the Fusion gets Mazda's 160-hp 2.3L in base trim, mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, or Ford's 221-hp 3.0L V6 connecting through to a sophisticated 6-speed automatic.
2006 Honda Accord Sedan - New Rear Styling Cleans Up Appearance |
| Updated styling and subtle improvements make for even better Accord. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The ever-popular Accord gets a mid-cycle upgrade for 2006, and in the process discards the outgoing model's oddly shaped taillights. The new triangular lamps might be criticized for their lack of originality, but they'll offend fewer people and therefore help this enhanced sedan to sell even better. The front end gets subtle styling mods too, while the interior adds refinements. Under the hood, a 166-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder powers base models while a 244-hp 3.0L V6, mated to a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, just like the base engine, makes for spirited performance. An even more powerful hybrid model reduces fuel consumption and emissions.
2006 Hyundai Sonata - Midsize Value Leader
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| This is the car that will change peoples' beliefs about Hyundai. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The most credible threat to Toyota's Camry yet, Hyundai has improved the Sonata so thoroughly that only the name remains the same. The midsize model is all about refinement, with a superb ride, impressive handling, extremely smooth 4- and 6-cylinder engines, the former featuring 162-hp from 2.4 litres and the latter 235-hp from 3.3 litres, while a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic shifts the entry engine, and a velvety-smooth 5-speed unit connects to the V6. A full assortment of luxury, convenience and safety features, plus a well-executed cabin and top-tier expected reliability make this the midsize value leader.
