New Models Make 2006 a Banner Year for Trucks, SUVs and Crossovers

SUV Market Split Between Smaller Car-Based Entries and 4x4 Capable Off-Roaders

Anyone who thinks that sport utility vehicles are losing popularity has their head in some idealistic green-lined cloud. The functional genre is not about to go away, although due to high fuel costs and changing consumer tastes there are many alternatives on the way. The same has to be said for light trucks, and new innovative models might forever change this segment as well. In order to bring you up to speed, a short overview of all-new or heavily modified 2006 models has been organized along with essential specs. Enjoy!

2006 Chevrolet HHR - Déjà Vu All Over Again

Is

Photo: General Motors of Canada

Chevrolet's new HHR an SUV? That's debatable. It looks like a classic 1940s panel wagon from the outside, thanks to help from ex-Chrysler PT Cruiser's designer Bryan Nesbitt who recently switched over to rival GM, but rides and handles like a car. Once inside this all-new crossover few will be able to argue against its accommodating interior, however, and the performance of its base 140-hp 2.2L 4-cylinder with 150 lb-ft of torque, standard with the $18,995 LS is reportedly adequate, while the optional 170-hp 2.4L four with170 lb-ft of torque included with the $21,195 LT should be quite sporty.

2006 Chevy Silverado 1500 - Refresh Drops Styling Ties to Avalanche

Chevy's

Photo: General Motors of Canada

updated Silverado 1500 half-ton pickup is hardly all-new, but the changes made to its front end design warrant attention. Gone is the bold chrome strikethough, a la Avalanche, replaced with a more conventional open grille, while the "power dome" hood from the heavy duty Silverado 2500/3500 line is now standard on the lighter truck. Other updates include the VortecMAX Performance Package, enhancing towing capability with a 345-hp V8, plus an improved Duramax Diesel engine, a new Allison 6-speed automatic transmission, a rear-drive performance-oriented SS model, and the availability of the hybrid model nationwide.