Suzuki is trying to grab a hefty slice of the compact car segment with its best entry to date, the SX4. The oddly shaped hatchback is the most affordable all-wheel-drive vehicle on the market

The Suzuki SX4 is an all-new subcompact car that comes standard with all-wheel drive. The S in this model stands for Sport. This Suzuki reasonably sporty, when equipped with a manual transmission, offering versatility and even looks like a stylish mini-SUV.

The subcompact segment is one of the fastest-growing and most competitive niches today. Suzuki, formerly an also-ran in almost every category, has a strong player in the SX4, whose standard all-wheel drive gives it a decided advantage in the segment.

From the driver’s seat, the SX4’s high roof and sweeping windshield create an expansive view that’s open and inviting. The front seat feels spacious, and there’s plenty of legroom. The back seat, of course, is smaller, although legroom for adults is adequate. Luggage space, as you would expect in a car with a 98.4-inch wheelbase, is small.

The SX4 comes equipped with side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, as well as seat-mounted side-impact airbags for the driver and front passenger.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a 4-door, 5-passenger compact SUV. The Suzuki Grand Vitara comes in three different trim styles: Base Grand Vitara, Grand Vitara XSport, and the Grand Vitara Luxury. When introduced the Grand Vitara is equipped with a 2.7-liter, V6, 185 hp engine that averages 18 to 30 mpg. The Suzuki Grand Vitara trims come with 16" steel wheels on the Base, 16" alloy wheels on the XSport, and 17" alloy wheels on the Luxury.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara models come with an abundance of standard features including: power outlets, driver/passenger airbags, front side airbags, side head curtain airbags, side guard door beams, emergency fuel shut-off, full power accessories, traction and stability control, tire detail, exterior rear mounted tire carrier, keyless remote, interval and rear wipers, folding and power adjustable exterior mirror, tinted glass, skid plate, climate control, rear seating heat and air unit, cruise, trip computer, outside temperature gauge, tilt steering, automatic headlights, a stereo entertainment system with single CD player, mounted steering wheel controls, 4 speakers, and MP3 playback. The XSport and Luxury Grand Vitara upgrades to 6-disc CD player with changer and 7 speakers.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is a small SUV that attempts to deliver the often contrarian attributes of off-road ability and on-road comfort. In its first generation, the Grand Vitara featured a truck-like chassis, V6 power and low-range gearing. The new model has a similar powertrain but features a body structure that blends car and truck chassis designs.

The Grand Vitara was unveiled in 1999 as a compact, rugged SUV. A luxury Limited trim was released in 2000. A standard CD player was added in 2001. In 2003, the JLS, XLS, and Limited trims were dropped, and replaced by the simpler 2WD and 4WD designations. The two-door and four-cylinder models were cut the next year. The base model was dropped in 2005. The second generation debuted in 2006. Now based upon a car platform, the Vitara is available in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.

The current Suzuki Grand Vitara represents the model’s second generation and has been available since the 2006 model year. This compact SUV has seating for five passengers, V6 power, a long list of standard features and available four-wheel drive with low-range gearing.

The original Suzuki XL7 was first brought to us in 2001.The seven-passenger SUV was compact in dimensions and geared for people who didn’t want the hassles and expense of a midsize and full-size sport-utility but still needed the option of third-row seating.

Unfortunately, its truck-based design, claustrophobic second- and third-row seats, poor-quality interior pieces and lack of side-impact airbags soon relegated it to bit-player status among a growing and increasingly refined field of compact and midsize contenders. In 2007 with a completely redesigned second-generation XL7. Ten inches longer and 2 inches wider than before, it’s the largest Suzuki SUV ever.

Naturally, it’s meant primarily for the North American market. In fact, much of its underlying mechanicals are based on a modified version of GM’s midsize crossover SUV platform that’s used for vehicles such as the Chevrolet Equinox. The 2007 Suzuki XL7 is a well-equipped five- or seven-passenger midsize crossover SUV. Five-passenger XL7s are offered in base and Luxury trim levels, while seven-passenger models come in base, Luxury and Limited versions.

Buyers have a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive on all trim levels. XL7 is the largest, most comfortable Suzuki SUV ever built and offers a spacious, functional interior. The overall design looks modern, but the quality and fit and finish of some interior pieces is a little iffy. When it comes to head- and legroom, the XL7 measures within an inch of the Honda Pilot in all three rows. Shoulder room is a different story, however, as it’s narrower than that of most other midsize crossovers.

The 60/40 split-folding middle-row seats also tumble and fold, and the optional 50/50 split-folding third-row seat can be folded flat into the floor for additional cargo-carrying room; a fold-flat front-passenger seat enables the XL7 to carry longer items with ease. With the rear seats lowered, the vehicle has a maximum cargo capacity of 95.2 cubic feet.

Swift is making a come back that you will not want to miss!

Reno is a subcompact hatchback. This type of vehicle, which typically promises high fuel economy, affordability and value, has enjoyed a recent resurgence as more automakers have come out with new models to take advantage of higher fuel prices and changing consumer tastes.

Reno four-door hatchback is available in one trim level with a few major options. Standard Reno features include a tire-pressure monitoring system, four-wheel independent/coil spring suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, heated side mirrors, air-conditioning with cabin air filtration, tilt steering wheel, powered accessories and an eight-speaker CD/MP3 audio system.

ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution is offered as an option, as is a Convenience Package that adds an automatic transmission, remote keyless entry, steering-wheel audio controls, leather-wrapped wheel and shift lever, cruise control and security alarm. Suzuki’s cheapest car is a sleek-looking and practical hatchback that comes standard with many power features and a seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. But the driving experience is very forgettable—the Reno finished dead last in a seven-car comparison test.

The 2007 Verona is a very complete family car you will enjoy riding in!

The all new 2007 Suzuki Forenza is a great commuting car and good on gas. The is car will be out in the fall of 2007. The design of the Forenza is European giving it a more appealing look.

With the Forenza being less expensive than the Civic, we are hoping that this car will take off and be a great hit to the new owner. Another great option that Suzuki is offering is the drivetrain warranty is transferable to the second owner.

Here are some options that you will receive when you purchase this vehicle; standard features include power windows and doors, heated mirrors and air conditioning.Front and side airbags are standard.

More information to come as the car gets in the 2007 line.

The 2007 Suzuki Aerio is offered as a surprisingly well-equipped four-door sedan in Base and Premium trim. Standard features on all include daytime running lights, a rear spoiler, automatic climate control, a six-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with steering-wheel controls, powered accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and an outside temperature readout. The Premium package adds an in-dash CD changer with seven-speaker sound, heated outside mirrors, variable-speed wipers and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. No real changes have been made for the Suzuki Aerio.

Suzuki has introduced an all-new vehicle called the Aerio. The Aerio is among the new class of crossover vehicles that are a blend between two different kinds of vehicles. Suzuki calls the Aerio SX a “sport crossover” vehicle, a cross between a sport sedan and, well, something more versatile. A minivan? SUV? Wagon? We’re not sure, but it’s certainly different, much like the new Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe, and similar to the Ford Focus ZX3 and ZX5 and Mazda Protege5. Regardless of what you call these cars, they are more entertaining than a station wagon, but have similar cargo capacity.

To a certain extent, the Aerio is Suzuki’s replacement for the Esteem (which remains on sale through August, 2002). The Suzuki Esteem has been an acceptably nice small car, offered in sedan and wagon form, both handsome in a conventional way. But it has not been a runaway sales success, restricted by both a limited dealership network and the difficulty of getting noticed in a crowded marketplace.

The Aerio is more likely to get noticed. Suzuki had maintained a reputation for producing economical cars. Some might call them cheap. So even though the Aerio is not as well equipped with sound deadening materials, it’s reasonably quiet. There is some engine noise on hard acceleration and the doors don’t have a nice sound when they’re closed. The sound is actually tinnier than I’d prefer.

There isn’t a lot of wind noise at highway speeds, which is a tribute to the aerodynamic styling. Among the standard items in the Aerio were fog lamps, remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, and power and heated mirrors. The Suzuki Aerio is a good value. It offers a lot of amenities and well as utility. Throw in the AWD and you have

Suzuki introduced its subcompact Esteem 4-door sedan in spring 1995, as a larger companion to the Swift hatchback. Stylists claimed the shape was European-inspired.

The front-drive sedan rode a 97.6-inch wheelbase (4.5 inches longer than the Swift) and, at 165.2 inches, measured nearly 16 inches longer overall. Three versions went on sale: base GL, midrange GLX, and top-line GLX with antilock brakes and cruise control. Only the top GLX had standard air conditioning.

A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 98 horsepower, drove either a 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. Power steering was standard on all models. GLX editions added a cassette stereo, as well as power windows and door locks.

The Suzuki has a lot of other options that we are sure you will enjoy.

Drive to the mall or beach or supermarket and it’s an attention-getter, guaranteed. The X-90 looks like a real car, only in miniature. It’s tiny — riding on a subcompact wheelbase of 86.6 inches and with a height of but 60 inches. It has a snub nose, and blunt tail treatment too, plus a top bar which wraps over the rear portion of the eensy-weensy passenger compartment. Inside, it might remind you of the old Porsche 914, that mid-engine 2-seater with no room to speak of behind front seats.

Yes, X-90 feels cramped inside at first blush because you’re probably not accustomed to sitting in a machine of such sparse interior measurements. But it becomes more comfortable as you acclimate to this new environment. The interior contains a number of comfort features and safety systems, beginning with twin airbags. What in the world is Suzuki trying to do with X-90? It’s obviously creating a new kind of car but this is not the first time the Japanese automaker has ventured into uncharted automotive territory.

Inside, X-90’s wee cockpit with twin bucket seats stocks standard safety features like power steering, daytime running lights and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes. Refinements appear even in the base model, such as floor carpeting, power windows and door locks, a tachometer with the analog instruments, intermittent windshield wipers and rear window defroster.

The 4WD edition adds cruise control, a security alarm and deluxe AM-FM stereo sound package with cassette deck. Sticker figures for X-90 begin at $13,900 for a base 4×2 with manual stick shift. Prices run past $16,000 for the top X-90 in 4×4 stance with automatic transmission. 1996 SUZUKI X-90

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is offered as a four-door wagon and a two-door convertible. The wagon comes in four trims with three engine options. The base and Touring levels come standard with a 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The GT gets a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, good for 230 hp. There is also a 180-hp version of the turbo engine as an option for the Limited and Touring models.

The PT Cruiser convertible has only two trim levels (Touring and GT) and offers the same three engine choices. A five-speed manual is standard on all models, and a four-speed automatic is optional. The PT Cruiser compares well to other compact wagons and convertibles, and consumers looking for a roomy vehicle that’s also fun to drive should find the PT an affordable choice that stands out in a crowd. Chrysler PT Cruiser to be a sporty drive, especially when compared to entry-level SUVs.

PT Cruiser handles well, with superlative steering feel and smooth overall ride quality. The only complaint concerned the sluggish performance of the base 150-hp engine, though the turbo engine options provide enough power and torque to pick up the slack. The PT Cruiser Convertible matches the wagon’s drivability, with the GT offering the most fulfilling performance.

The PT Cruiser is still in its first generation but Chrysler has made regular refreshes and special-edition models to keep its retro vehicle up to date. A PT Cruiser Dream Cruiser trim came out in 2002; it featured exclusive gold paint and accents. The turbocharged GT debuted the year after as a reply to critics who’d complained the base engine was not powerful enough. It was originally rated at 215 hp and received subsequent updates to reach its current 230-hp output.

The Chrysler Pacifica remains almost a secret among SUV shoppers, despite its three years on the market and moderately good sales. The styling draws admiration from SUV and minivan owners alike, while the interior is comfortable and attractive. Handling and ride are both good, with the main drawbacks being price and gas mileage - better than full size SUVs, but not as good as minivans.

The main changes for 2007 were under the hood; styling is quite similar, with the headlights adjusted for Chrysler-brand “scallops” and grooves added to the hood. The interior is largely unchanged. Only when you start driving do you see the massive change that has taken over the Pacifica; even if you knew about the new engine, seeing the horsepower increase (a scant handful of horsepower) is no preparation for the drive. Luxury features are included, such as power seats, AutoStick, SentryKey, an alarm whose controls are on the key itself, a load levelling suspension with height control built in, air filtering, dual-zone air conditioning, powerful stereo, one-touch power windows (on all four, so you can zoom all the windows down very quickly), front and rear consoles, and cruise control.

Optional luxury features of note include a vehicle information center with compass, gas mileage, and other displays and a universal garage door opener (which sits in an overhead row of three buttons between the front dome lights, by the optional hatch opener button). New for 2007 is a new option - the rear view camera, a feature we first saw used by Lexus. You can get this in addition to the normal backup alert, which uses five sensors in the bumper to “feel out” how far away you are from solid objects; this can not only save time and trouble in parking, but can save lives by preventing backup-runover accidents (a huge number of children are killed or injured by people backing out of driveways.)

The system alerts drivers with multiple LEDs positioned over the rear window (where you can see them in the mirror), and with beeping. The rear view camera appears in the navigation system screen, using a camera above the license plate; you get a wide-angle lens view up front, with lines to show you where the Pacifica will be if you keep going backward (that’s a new one on us).

The new 2007 Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers a fully independent short - long- arm double wishbone suspension. This stiff suspension cross member enables the use of softer rubber bushings to isolate noise, vibration and harshness on the Sebring Convertible.

It’s never been easier to lower the top of the 2007 Chrysler Sebring Convertible , the four window down switch activates all four side windows simultaneously, the full sealing latch operation releases and secures the top with ease. And all 2007 Sebring Convertible tops are equipped with glass rear windows with defroster.

There are 2 available tops, cloth or vinyl, both can be lowered in about 7 seconds. For safety, the new 03 and 2007 Chrysler Sebring Convertible comes with a next generation multistage driver and front passenger air bags inflate with forces appropriate to the severity of impact. The straight through double rail concept of under body structures utilized in the new Chrysler Sebring Convertible travel front to back on each side, forming a ladder configuration with the cross members.

The cross car beam located under the instrument panel contributes to torsional stiffness. The new Sebring ABS Plus antilock brake system (standard on Limited and available on LX, GTC and Lxi) is a sophisticated extension of conventional ABS. During turns it automatically will balance brake force at each individual wheel in return helping to keep the car stable while braking and taking corners. There is now a convenient remote keyless entry system which includes illuminated entry and controls for power door locks the trunk and panic alarm.

The 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser offers utility and brisk acceleration with the turbo model, but unless you’re a fan of its retro-themed looks, there are more capable choices to be had. The 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is available as both a small wagon and a convertible.

The wagon’s cabin is roomy and incredibly cargo-friendly, thanks to reconfigurable rear seats and an available fold-flat front passenger seat. The PT Cruiser convertible boasts a folding backseat that’s spacious enough for two adults, with a pass-through from the trunk enhancing its versatility.

All base-model 2007 Chrysler PT Cruisers are motivated by a 2.4-liter inline-4 that makes 150 hp. It’s available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. Optional on Touring and Limited models is a turbocharged version of that engine, which puts out 180 hp. If that’s not enough, the performance-oriented GT offers a higher-boost version good for 230 ponies. Turbo-equipped Touring and Limited Cruisers come standard with the automatic, while the GT can take either a manual or automatic.

The 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser doesn’t feel like a sports car, but it accelerates smartly once the turbo is spooled up. Buyers will want to avoid the base engine, which leaves the car feeling starved for power. Apart from a wide turning radius, all PTs are easy to steer, and the suspension consistently soaks up road irregularities, yielding a smooth, composed ride.

Body roll is evident during cornering, but the PT can still hustle through the curves at a rapid clip, particularly the GT, which has firmer suspension tuning and stickier tires. Strong, reassuring brakes round out the PT’s compliant road manners.

For 2007 Chrysler Sebring Coupe there is a new redesigned interior which includes a sophisticated new instrument panel and gauges. Sebring Coupe offers a spacious trunk with cargo net standard on Lxi and an option on all other models. The rear seats offer a 60/40 split folding rear bench allowing access to the trunk and easy transportation of larger cargo.

For 2007 the automatic dimming rearview mirror is an option with integral reading lamps, an integrated digital compass-temperature display and HomeLink® buttons that can be programmed to control your garage door, and outdoor lights. Sebring’s cabin has a fresh look, even on entry-level models. Chrysler’s historic wing shape is used as a styling theme inside to good effect. The shield shaped center stack flares into a wide wing, surrounding most of the dashboard.

A three-bomb instrument cluster holds the gauges, ringed by satin silver surrounds. Three, two-tone combinations are offered, and Chrysler’s designers mix textures and finishes agreeably throughout. Switchgear is easy to reach and simple to use. The deep, covered center console does triple duty. In addition to storage, the top slides forward to double as an inside armrest. And when the optional, rear seat entertainment system is specified, it’s housed on the tail end of the console, swinging up for back seat viewing. Also on the option sheet is a heater/chiller for one of the two cup holders.

Seats front and back are comfortable for trips long and short. Adults will fit in either row of the Sebring; rear seats fold down (as will the front seat, optionally) to add versatility for cargo carrying. The trunk measures 13.6 cubic feet. For safety Chrysler has added next generation air bags for driver and front passenger on all 2007 Sebring Coupe models. The driver side air bag is in the hub of the steering wheel and the front passenger side air bag is behind a portion of the instrument panel.

The airbags deploy during frontal impacts. The new Chrysler Sebring Coupe comes with a Sentry Key Engine immobilizer and remote keyless entry with panic alarm (standard on all 2007 Sebring Coupe models). If an impact should occur there are energy absorbing front and rear crumple zones and steel side-guard door beams for added safety.

This fall Chrysler will start selling its first sport utility vehicle, called the 2007 Chrysler Aspen. This SUV will seat eight comfortably. Riding on a wave of design successes, Chrysler is expanding into the lucrative luxury-SUV segment to compete head to head with the Lincoln Navigator and the (newly revamped) Cadillac Escalade. The Chrysler Aspen seats eigh comfortably.

Chrysler’s first SUV will be based off the Dodge Durango platform, following the long-established strategy of investing as little as possible to get into a completely new market (if you can get away with it). To its credit, the Aspen will have several Chrysler-specific styling cues and a decidedly more upscale look and feel than its Dodge counterpart. Outside, the wide horizontal grille, unique headlights, winged badge, sculpted hood (a la Chrysler Crossfire), and liberal use of chrome should be enough to make Aspen intenders feel stylish. Naturally, available 20-inch chromed wheels and specially jeweled taillamps are designed to distinguish this large midsize (small full-size?) SUV.

Inside, as one might expect of a competitor to Lincoln and Cadillac, the Aspen will offer soft-touch leather, upscale white-face gauges, and many woodgrain trim pieces. Of course, as is the Chrysler custom, the center stack will hold an analog clock. In addition, options like full-screen nav, DVD entertainment, and heated second-row seats will be available. Standard safety features include ESP, three-row side-curtain airbags, backup and tire-pressure sensors, and roll mitigation. The Aspen is outfitted in leather, brushed aluminum and light burl wood inside. Options include heated first- and second-row seats, a power rear lift-gate, remote starter, rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a navigation system.

A built-in power inverter powerful enough for laptops, as well as coolers and stain-resistant fabrics are noteworthy thoughtful features. The Aspen will also offer a high level of standard safety equipment, including Electronic Roll Mitigation (to help detect and prevent rollovers), side-curtain airbags for all three rows of seating, parking assist and tire-pressure monitoring. The Aspen’s bumpers have been designed to line-up with passenger cars’ bumpers so that if a collision with a car occurs, the larger and taller Aspen won’t plow over the car’s bumper and careen into the passenger compartment, causing fatalities.

For 2007, the Chrysler Crossfire features a unique monochromatic look. A monotone Bright Silver Metallic exterior paint scheme gives the 2007 Chrysler Crossfire a sleek, modern appearance that’s as distinct as the car itself. Also updated for 2007 is a new set of standard safety features that include a front passenger seat Occupant Classification System (OCS), a multi-stage driver front air bag that is designed to deploy at different levels depending on the severity of impact and a passenger front air bag.

New standard safety equipment also includes driver and passenger seat belt pretensioners and constant force retractors, as well as knee air bags for both drivers and passengers. The Chrysler Crossfire has won multiple awards, including a spot on the 2006 Consumer Reports Recommended list, SmartMoney magazine’s Best New Car Values (Sports Car Segment) and the 500,000th U.S. patent for the Roadster design.

Chrysler did the impossible at the reveal of the 2007 Chrysler Aspen. It made it snow inside Cobo Convention Hall. All it took was a few hundred pounds of tissue paper, a 10-foot-tall fan and the willingness to spend a big chunk of money to get its first SUV noticed. The Crossfire is available in coupe and convertible body styles, both of which come in either base or Limited trim. Base models are available only with a manual transmission, and come with such features as stability control; dual-zone air conditioning; a four-speaker CD stereo; cloth upholstery; a height-adjustable driver seat; a leather-wrapped steering wheel; power windows, mirrors and locks; and on convertibles, a power top with defrostable rear glass.

Limited models add an eight-speaker, 240-watt Infinity stereo system, power-adjustable leather seats with heaters, more sound insulation, a tire-pressure display and various upgraded trim pieces. The standard wheel/tire arrangement calls for 18s in front (225/40ZR Michelin Pilots) and 19s in back (sized 255/35); buyers can get all-season tires as a low-cost option. Also optional is a DVD-based navigation system on Limited models.

The all new 07′ BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury wagon, available in two trims, the 328i and the 328xi.

Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard The 2007 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon is a carryover from 2006. BMW’s 2007 sport wagon impresses with its new 3.0-liter DOHC inline six-cylinder engine making 230 horsepower.

Whether you choose the rear-wheel-drive 328i or the electronically controlled xDrive (all-wheel drive) in the 328xi, BMW’s luxurious appointments and sheer fun factor are a siren song that’s hard to resist.

Transmissions 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic with lockup torque converter Zero to 60 mph 7.4 sec Zero to 100 mph 21.0 sec Standing 1/4-mile 16.0 sec @ 88 mph Estimated fuel economy (manual): EPA city driving 20 mpg EPA highway driving 29 mpg

The 2007 Chrysler Town & Country remains unchanged but adds three new exterior colors: Cognac Crystal Clear Coat, Marine Blue Pearl Coat and Modern Blue Pearl Coat. The 2007 Chrysler Town & Country’s engine moves this minivan along well, getting reasonable gas mileage.

The soft ride handles potholes and road imperfections nicely, and we love making the sliding doors open with the key fob. The 2007 Chrysler Town & Country does what minivans are supposed to do–carry people and cargo from point A to point B–but it’s unlikely the driver will enjoy the trip, as the car’s cabin gadgets are merely functional. Though it offers useful features like in-floor storage and a full set of fold-flat rear seats, the 2007 Chrysler Town & Country minivan lags behind the competition in acceleration, braking and handling.

A redesign is coming for ‘08, but until then, any of its import-brand rivals will suit you better. The Town & Country won’t win any trophies for handling and performance either. Its ride is soft and wallowy, and no matter which V6 you choose, the T&C feels underpowered relative to others in its class. Its four-speed transmission also tends to hunt when faced with highway inclines. Finally, braking distances are long compared to its peers, which is a problem in a class where safety takes precedence. One advantage the 2007 Chrysler Town & Country has is that it tends to be less expensive than top-ranked vans like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

If price is your main factor, we’d recommend you opt for the excellent Kia Sedona or Hyundai Entourage, which are thousands cheaper than the Town & Country and offer much better driving dynamics. Although the Town & Country was first to market with a number of useful minivan features, it needs a full redesign to compete in this class. Fortunately, a ground-up makeover is on the way for 2008.

The seven-passenger 2007 Chrysler Town & Country minivan is available in four trim levels: base, LX, Touring and Limited. The base model is the only short-wheelbase T&C; the other three are the larger extended-wheelbase size. Base models are equipped with a second-row bench seat, air-conditioning, power locks and windows, cruise control, tilt steering, remote keyless entry, and a four-speaker CD stereo, but cannot be equipped with fold-flat seating. Moving up to the LX model adds Stow ‘n Go fold-flat seating and a storage system in the second and third rows, second-row captain’s chairs and heated power mirrors.

The T&C Touring adds dual power-sliding doors, a power liftgate, alloy wheels, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat, three-zone manual air-conditioning and a six-speaker sound system. The top-of-the-line Limited model is further upgraded with chrome wheels, three-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, driver-seat memory and an upgraded Infinity sound system with a six-disc, in-dash CD/DVD changer. Sirius Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity (known as UConnect) and a rear DVD entertainment system are optional on all Town & Country minivans. Second-row captain’s chairs are optional on the base T&C.

The Chrysler 300 luxury sedan receives some significant changes year. The biggest, literally, is the introduction of a new long-wheelbase model. The W.P. Chrysler Executive Series Package (available on Touring and 300C rear-wheel-drive models) adds 6 inches to the 300’s wheelbase.The extra length is used to provide substantially more rear legroom. New features this year include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, restyled 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, heated rear seats, a maintenance reminder and supplemental turn signals mounted in the exterior mirror housings.

The rear-drive 2007 Chrysler 300 is a large sedan available in four trim levels. The base 300 comes with air-conditioning, a power driver seat, a CD player, cruise control, remote keyless entry and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. The Touring adds a bigger V6, alloy wheels, foglights, leather upholstery and heated mirrors. The 300C adds a Hemi V8, an upgraded 276-watt Boston Acoustics sound system, foldaway mirrors, power-adjustable pedals, rain-sensing wipers, premium leather trim, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column and a driver memory system. This trim also offers SmartBeam headlights, which automatically activate or dip the high-beam headlights based on road conditions.

The high-performance SRT8 model features a more powerful V8; a rear spoiler; sport-tuned suspension; a stability control system that allows more aggressive driving; 20-inch alloy wheels; and Brembo performance disc brakes with four-piston calipers. Depending on trim, include xenon headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, a sunroof and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. A navigation system is available on Touring and 300C models, as is all-wheel drive. Those looking for more room can opt for the W.P. Chrysler Executive Series Package (available on Touring and 300C rear-wheel-drive models), which adds 6 inches to the car’s wheelbase and a lot more space for rear-seat passengers.

Features like ABS, traction control and stability control are optional on the base 300 but standard on all other trims. Full-length side curtain airbags are optional on all models. In NHTSA crash testing, the 2007 Chrysler 300 earned a perfect five stars for frontal-impact protection. In side-impact tests, it earned four stars for front-occupant safety and five stars for the rear. It earned a “Good” rating — the highest possible — in IIHS frontal-offset crash testing.

BMW says that the 3 Series coupes have been completely redesigned for 2007. These all-new, fifth-generation coupes follow on the heels the new BMW 3 Series sedans that were introduced last year. With sleeker styling and carrying less weight than a four-door sedan, the two-door or coupe version of BMW’s 3 Series model has special appeal for drivers who demand sporty driving dynamics but need a back seat and a decent sized trunk.

If you think of a coupe as merely a sedan with two less doors, you need to change your thinking as it applies to BMW. The coupe is nearly two inches longer, more than an inch trimmer and has a roofline that is more than two inches lower than the sedan’s. In fact, the only exterior component the coupe shares with the 3 Series sedan is door handles, and the coupe needs only two of them, so right there, one segment of component weight is cut in half. Handling is sharp, responsive, precise, yet the ride isn’t harsh, in spite of the fact that a sport suspension comes as standard equipment.

The 2007 BMW 328i coupe features a new twin-turbocharged engine that puts out 300 horsepower, which makes for the ultimate driving machine. We found it to be an extremely responsive and pleasing car, with none of the turbo lag associated with turbochargers. Meanwhile, the 328xi features all-wheel drive, which enhances traction in wet or snowy weather. A new convertible with a retracting hardtop and the next ultra-high-performance M3 are anticipated for launch in calendar year 2007. Standard equipment on all 3 Series coupes includes leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, xenon headlamps, fog lamps, heated windshield washer nozzles, door handles with ground lighting, adaptive brake lights that alert trailing drivers to harder braking by the BMW driver.

A start/stop button rather than a traditional turn-key ignition, power mirrors and windows and locks with remote locking, tilt and telescoping steering column with audio controls on the steering wheel, power front seats, a choice for four interior trims (two shades of walnut, gray poplar or brushed aluminum), a power moonroof, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, front and rear cup holders, fold-down rear seatbacks and a four-year/50,000-mile warranty with free maintenance (including oil changes and wiper blades) and roadside assistance. The rear-wheel-drive 328i and 335i come with Sport suspension much like that which was optional on the previous generation of the 3 Series coupe.

the 2007 BMW 3 Series 328xi Sedan makes a good all-around vehicle. Powered by a 3 liter 6 cylinder gas engine, the 3 Series 328xi Sedan delivers 230 horsepower at 6500 rpm and up to 200 ft-lbs. of torque. A 6 Speed Manual w/Overdrive transmission and 4-wheel drive are standard, but for a bit more excitement you can upgrade to the sportier 6 Speed Automatic w/Overdrive & Steptronic.

This new high-performance engine develops its power and performance much more spontaneously than a turbocharged engine of conventional design. At the same time, the N54 engine offers all the smoothness and refinement which made BMW’s award-winning inline sixes so admired well. Last, but certainly not least, the impressive increase in power on the twin-turbo engine versus a normally aspirated six-cylinder engine comes without any significant increase in fuel consumption.

Some safety features come standard on the 3 Series: Tire Pressure Monitor, Trunk Entrapment Release, Front Fog Lights. Others, such as Rear Parking Sensors are available at an extra cost. For 2007, the best sports sedans and sports wagons in the compact luxury segment receive new engines, improved performance, new colors and interior updates. Brakes Anti-Lock Braking System Brake Assist Power F&R Disc Brakes Convenience (4) Cup Holders Automatic Headlamp Control Cellular Telephone Pre-Wire Central Locking System Dual-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning Illuminated Entry System Power Trunk Release Power Windows Speed Control Drive AWD Drivetrain Engine 3.0 Liter Engine: 6-Cyl

The 328ci Convertible will change your perspective with one extraordinary drive. Of course, a silky-smooth, 184-hp inline 6-cylinder engine can do that to a driver. But when the top is dropped at the touch of a button, the vehicle’s incredibly crisp handling is enhanced by the sense of crisp air rushing overhead.

The Rollover Protection System (RPS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on board, there’s no reason to stop exploring all the possibilities that lie ahead, and above. This car uses infrared light to measure the amount of rain. When the wipers are in the ‘intermittent’ mode, the rain sensor automatically adjusts the windshield-wiping interval as needed. Some manufacturers have come close to matching the BMW 3 Series’ superb balance of sport, comfort, style and luxury — such as Infiniti with the G35 — but it remains the compact premium car of choice for enthusiasts who value responsive handling and regard driving as more than just getting from one place to another.

But it tends to cost more than competing cars and offers fewer standard amenities than its Japanese rivals. With better visibility and a reasonable trunk still left behind, the Convertible promises practicality to go with great performance from either the 218-hp 325i or the twin-turbo 300-hp 335i, which should accelerate to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds (the 325i does it in 7.6 seconds). A six-speed manual is standard on both, while a six-speed paddle-shifted automatic is optional. A diesel version and a four-cylinder Convertible will be offered for other markets.

Convertibles have a power fabric top with heated glass rear window. Bi-xenon headlights are optional; they are steering-linked on 325 and 330 models. Run-flat tires are optional for 330s. An available Performance Package for 330s adds 10 hp, 18-inch wheels, unique trim, and sport-tuned suspension and exhaust. Standard Engine 2.5L 184 hp I6 Horsepower Torque 175 @ 3500 RPM 184 @ 6000 RPM City (mpg) 19 Highway (mpg) 26 - 27 Max. Seating 5

The new Kia Rondo is a car in search of an identity. A cross between a car, wagon, SUV and van, the Rondo combines some of the characteristics of each of those vehicles into what Kia describes as “a family-oriented urban utility vehicle” (a UUV?). Basically, it’s a tall, five- or seven-passenger hatchback: it’s taller than a typical car, has a unit body platform with a fully independent suspension, is available with three rows of seats, and has a large lift-up hatch for easy access to the rear cargo area.

Practical without being overweight or difficult to drive, the new Rondo is the latest in a new-generation of space-efficient family vehicles - with the added advantage of being priced lower than those other seven-passenger vehicles in the marketplace: minivans and SUVs. The Rondo has very large windows; in particular, the Rondo’s large rear window makes it much easier to see where you’re going when reversing than in most SUVs, vans and cars. As well, the Rondo has a rear defroster, wiper and washer - but unfortunately, the rear wiper doesn’t have an intermittent setting.

For first and second row passengers, there’s plenty of headroom and legroom. The optional third row seat is narrower than the second row and not as comfortable, but at least the floor is low enough so that your knees aren’t up under your chin. In five-passenger models, the second row 60/40 split bench seatbacks can be folded flat with one easy motion: just lift the lever on top of the seats and the seatbacks articulate forwards and lie flat level with the rear cargo floor. The second row head restraints don’t have to be removed first. In seven-passenger models, the second row seats have a fore-aft adjustment to increase or decrease legroom for third row passengers, or allow more cargo room behind the seats.

These second row seats have a different, slightly more complicated folding design: the seat cushion must be lifted up from the rear, and the seatback folded down flat after removing the head restraint. There are two slots in the back of the seat cushion to store each head restraint.