The original Nissan Murano, launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, set new standards for style and sportiness in the expanding mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle marketplace, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position through a “super evolution” of the original design – with a new exterior, interior and enhanced technology. Murano’s new premium driving feel results from a combination of a new advanced platform, continued refinement of Murano’s standard V6 engine and new, second-generation Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission).

“The 2009 Murano is an upgrade, not just compared to the previous generation vehicle, but the entire crossover SUV segment,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “With its unique combination of modern design, dynamic performance, new ‘business class’ interior and overall refinement, Murano continues to stand out as the most distinctive, refined vehicle in class.”

The 2009 Murano’s new exterior features a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design, a wide grille with large integrated headlights, strong body side character lines with pronounced 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and tires and a distinctive rear end set off by an expansive rear glass area and LED taillights.

Murano’s newly designed interior plays on the “mobile suite” theme, complete with new instrument panel and center stack design, new seat design with available double-stitched leather-appointed seating surfaces, use of premium materials such as leather and aluminum, a variety of storage compartments and ambient lighting.

The 2009 Murano is powered by a revised 265-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 backed by a new advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), with a front-wheel drive or an advanced all-wheel drive drivetrain. Murano also features a new D-platform, as well as new suspension, body structure and state-of-the-art steering for improved ride comfort and precise handling.

Multiple technology features are available on the 2009 Murano, including standard Push Button Ignition and available Intelligent Key, RearView Monitor, integrated iPod® connectivity, DVD Mobile Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, 11-speaker Bose® audio system and an enhanced touch screen Nissan Navigation system with voice activation XM® NavTraffic real-time traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.

“All of these features combine to create a crossover that is a standout in its class,” said Bosley. “One of the strengths of the new 2009 Murano is that you get the total package – design, performance, safety and technology in one refined, quality vehicle.”

New, Dramatic Styling

One of the most striking aspects of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel, but still maintains the “Murano-ness” that consumers have enjoyed since the first generation’s debut. “When someone looks at the 2009 Murano, they’ll instantly know what it is by its distinctive Murano style,” said Bosley. “The new Murano’s design takes its cue from the original vehicle and adds a more rewarding sense of style and individuality. Others have tried to imitate it, but there is only one true Murano.”

Murano’s new front end features a distinctive grille treatment with wide front headlights – with available quad-cylinder style High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional projector headlights adding an even more imposing view. A new hood sweeps into the sculpted, dynamic bodylines, with pronounced wheel arches and 18-inch or 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance.

Integrated fog lights are available on Murano SL and LE models. Large chrome door handles and available roof rails with adjustable crossbars (accessory) add both functionality and visual accents.

The Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape, rear air deflector and large rear LED taillights that accent the body side character line. Dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers provide an appropriate “final” look to the 2009 Murano.

New available exterior features for 2009 include rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power liftgate, enhanced RearView Monitor with rear view camera and a large, dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight – a new feature that provides an open-air experience for Murano passengers without compromising head room.

Eight exterior colors are offered on the 2009 Murano, including three all new colors – Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

A New “ Mobile Suite” Interior

Inside, the new Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme, with an interior exemplifying warmth and modern style. From the sweep of the new instrument panel, to the new telescoping steering wheel design, to the wide console and ambient lighting, Murano owners feel a sense of warmth and security from the first time they open the doors.

Murano’s new front seats have been designed for enhanced support, offering a rich, supple feel and excellent riding comfort. The 60/40 fold-flat rear seat is now available with a convenient power return feature – the seat returns to the upright position with the touch of a button. Heated seats are available in the front and rear. Also available are new double-stitched leather-appointed seating surfaces for an inviting, luxurious feeling, an 8-way power driver’s and 4-way power front passenger’s seats and a driver’s memory system (seats, steering wheel and mirrors). Interior colors include Cafe Latte and Charcoal.

A variety of cargo storage areas are provided throughout Murano’s interior, including standard dual-level center console; pockets for mobile phones, coins, maps and more; numerous cupholders; an extra large glove compartment; and dual seatback pockets, as well as a large rear cargo area.

Another new, innovative Murano feature is an available foldaway cargo organizer. When needed, the organizer pops up with a push of a button from its hidden space below the rear cargo floor and a portion of the cargo floor snaps into a vertical position, revealing a flat recessed space with removable, vertical cargo partitions. The system helps prevent items such as sports equipment and grocery bags from rolling loose around the cargo area while driving. The area is also ideal for wet or dirty items due to its easy-clean box floor.

Other standard interior features include push button ignition; auto door lock feature, dual zone climate controls; Fine Vision gauges; and an AM/FM/CD6/six-speaker audio system with AUX-in jack, VTR jack and MP3/WMA capability.

More Power and a New Platform

All 2009 Muranos feature Nissan’s award-winning VQ series engine – a revised 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine incorporates a Twin Nissan Variable Induction Control System (NICS), microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coated valve lifters, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler and lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads.

Engine power is transferred to a new, advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ACS) that provides a sporty driving experience and the smoothness that only a CVT offers.

All 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system that adjusts to road conditions in a tenth of a second. The intuitive all-wheel drive system connects the Murano VDC system’s yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors with the AWD system. The system provides increased traction in all weather conditions by distributing engine torque depending on the driver’s intended direction and the actual direction of the vehicle.

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations is standard on all Murano models.

The 2009 Murano features Nissan’s new, advanced “D” platform that provides a solid foundation for crossover duties. This platform, which is similar to that used in the 2008 Altima, has been optimized for Murano. The new platform gives the Murano one-and-a-half times more torsional rigidity than the first generation Murano, helping improve noise isolation and reduce vibration – benefiting the ride comfort of all passengers.

Murano offers a standard four-wheel independent suspension with extensive use of lightweight aluminum for a reduction in sprung weight. The new suspension design, with its cradle-type front subframe and multi-link rear design with improved geometry and large front and rear stabilizer bars, provides increased stiffness. The suspension, in combination with high performance dual flow path shock absorbers, helps provide sure footing in all surfaces and increased ride comfort on rough surfaces.

A new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system, similar to the one used in Altima and 350Z, provides the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving. The Murano’s system provides a direct steering feel, inspiring driver confidence.

Braking is provided by large 4-wheel vented disc brakes (12.6-inch front, 12.1-inch rear) with 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

The 2009 Murano also features new wheel and tire packages – 18x7.5-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/65R18 tires (S, SL) and 20x7.5-inch 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 tires (LE).

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

A variety of advanced technology features are available, including an Intelligent Key, a Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system with an in-dash 6CD changer, Radio Data System (RDS), and speed-sensitive volume control (up from an 8-speaker system); XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately); new Nissan Navigation System with user-friendly graphic interface, menu structure and intelligent search capabilities, a 9.3GB Music Box hard drive and XM® Nav Traffic (XM® subscription required, sold separately); Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and a new Nissan DVD Mobile Entertainment system with a 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from 6.4 inches).

Also available is an iPod® connector that integrates into the Murano’s standard audio system controls (LE only); steering wheel controls for cruise control and audio system; RearView Monitor; and Voice Recognition for audio, HVAC, Bluetooth® and navigation system.

Murano again offers a full complement of standard safety features, with six standard air bags, including a Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, roof-mounted curtain supplemental side-impact air bags for front-and rear-seat occupant head protection, along with a standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) and driver/passenger seat belt warning lamps. Also standard are front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchors and tether system, front seats with active head restraints and Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones to help dissipate crash energy away from the passenger compartment.

Five Well-Equipped Models

The 2009 Nissan Murano is available in five models – S 2WD, S AWD, SL 2WD, SL AWD and LE AWD. All Murano AWD models (S, SL, LE) include an advanced all-wheel drive system with yaw moment control.

Murano S 2WD models include the 3.5-liter 265-horsepower V6; Xtronic CVT; 18-inch alloy wheels; halogen headlights and LED taillights; 6-way manual driver’s and 4-way manual passenger’s seats; manual tilt/telescoping steering wheel; power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry system; a 6-speaker audio system and more.

Murano SL models (2WD and AWD) add rear privacy glass; integrated front fog lights; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; a leather-wrapped steering wheel; 8-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support; and 60/40 fold-flat rear seat back with power return.

The Murano LE model, only available with all-wheel drive, adds 20-inch wheels with a special titanium-colored finish; roof rails with silver accents; rain-sensing front wipers; auto on/off HID bi-functional projector headlights; 11-speaker Bose® premium audio system; XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately); iPod® connector; 7-inch color Vehicle Information Display; Intelligent Key with push button ignition; Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; double-stitched leather-appointed front and rear heated seats with driver’s memory system; driver’s seat with power lumbar support and 4-way power passenger’s seat; power tilt/telescoping heated steering wheel; auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver; power liftgate; RearView monitor; wood grain trim, foldable cargo organizer and anti-theft alarm.

A number of option packages are available on 2009 Murano. The Convenience Package (S models) includes privacy glass, roof rails, a tonneau cover and anti-theft alarm. The Premium Package (SL models) includes a Bose® premium audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, roof rails, foldable Cargo Organizer, tonneau cover, anti-theft alarm and 7-inch color Vehicle Information Display.

The Leather Package (SL models) includes leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated front seats with driver power lumbar support and 4-way power passenger’s seat. The Technology Package (SL models) includes a power liftgate, Intelligent Key with push button ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, auto on/off HID bi-functional projector headlights, rain-sensing front wipers and heated outside mirrors.

Also available is a Moonroof Package, with large, dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight (SL and LE models); Navigation Package with 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and XM® Nav Traffic (XM® subscription required, sold separately) (SL and LE models); and the Nissan DVD Mobile Entertainment system with a 9-inch roof-mounted screen (SL and LE models).

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the launch of the Nissan GT-R, a new multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “an ultimate supercar for anyone, anywhere, at anytime”.  The Nissan GT-R features a newly developed Premium Midship package, including the world’s first independent transaxle 4WD developed independently by Nissan.  The Nissan GT-R will be available in Japan mainly through Nissan High Performance Centers nationwide from December 6th.

The Nissan GT-R was developed with a new understanding and appreciation of the Earth’s natural forces – gravity, inertial force and aerodynamics – and translates those forces into a completely new design, maximizing tire grip and airflow.

Basic vehicle dynamics and integration with the driver have also been examined, resulting in new componentry and creating a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) never seen before in the marketplace.  All of these theories have been integrated to balance “speed and efficiency,” “high-output with environmental consideration” and “high performance and safety.”

Taking these factors into account, Nissan created the all-new Nissan GT-R, which offers advanced high performance for secure and enjoyable driving by minimizing the effects of climatic, road condition or driving technique limitations.  The Nissan GT-R offers ultimate performance for virtually every driving situation – whether it be the Nurburgring circuit, to snow, rain or urban areas – all manageable by the GT-R driver through advanced technology and driving dynamics.

The Nissan GT-R’s unique characteristics are instilled not just in the vehicle’s design, but also through a specialized production process.  Carbon fiber, aluminum and steel components are assembled with a special high-precision process, which includes a series of vibration tests.  Engines and transmissions are assembled by a single craftsman in a “clean room” environment and upon completion, every GT-R undergoes a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure the proper operation of all vehicle components. 

To properly support the all-new GT-R, Nissan has established special Nissan High Performance Centers, where all certified advisors and technicians have received extensive training.  Total support for the GT-R owner is offered for the first three years of ownership, including measurement and adjustment of the engine, transmission and wheel alignment after the first 1000 km, and again every 12 months, free of charge.

Packaging and Driveline Suited for a Supercar
The all-new Nissan GT-R uses a Premium Midship package, an all-new, more advanced version Front Midship (FM) package utilized on other Nissan vehicles.  This new package enables the use of the world’s first application of an independent transaxle 4WD system.  The transaxle’s layout places the dual-clutch transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle (instead of the usual front location), which enables vehicle weight to be evenly distributed throughout the car.  This gives the Nissan GT-R a superb front-to-rear weight balance, while enhancing leg and foot space and allowing for an optimal pedal layout. 

Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 “VR38” engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system.  A secondary air management system enables the newly designed powerplant to provide approximately 40kg/m of torque during ordinary low-rev driving, which gives an optimum air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiency and helps the Nissan GT-R meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) standards in Japan.

The Nissan GT-R’s new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm.  Putting the power to the ground is an all-new GR6-type dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct control.

Suspension duties are handled through a special Bilstein DampTronic*1 system, which utilizes all pertinent vehicle information to provide appropriate damping forces for all situations and helps maintain a high level of control for straight-line driving, cornering, and braking.

Braking is essential for a daily-driven supercar and the GT-R features large Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, which in combination minimize fade and provide stable braking.  Run-flat tires, exclusively designed for use on the Nissan GT-R, balance high grip and all-weather capabilities and a comfortable ride in all driving situations.  The tires are designed to maintain structure for 80km of travel at 80 km/h, while still providing an acceptable level of performance.

High-Performance Safety and Environmental Technologies
The Nissan GT-R offers a long list of safety and environmental features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stoplamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, “super wide beam” headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers.

Standard safety equipment includes a pop-up engine hood system for enhanced pedestrian safety, driver and front passenger SRS Air Bag System, ELR front seat belts with tension reducer, front seat belts with load limiter, and three-point ELR rear seat belts. Driver and front passenger SRS Side Air Bag System and SRS Curtain Air Bag System are offered as options.

Environmental technologies include extensive work to create an U-LEV certification in Japan for the 3.8-liter twin turbo engine and reduced levels of volatile organic compound for materials used in the car.

Functional Design – High Performance Aerodynamics and Style
The Nissan GT-R’s styling follows the function over form theory.  Every styling aspect, from the overall design to the smallest details, is created to maximize the vehicle’s driving experience – as well as suggesting GT-R’s “supercar” level of performance.  Utilizing advanced aerodynamics, the Nissan GT-R’s aggressive styling evokes the lines of a well-trained athlete, combining strong character lines with smooth and solid areas. 

The all-new GT-R’s body is created with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness and lightness.  The Nissan GT-R features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, with high front and rear downforce, which provides the GT-R with enhanced grip in all weather situations, while also enhancing fuel efficiency.

The front fenders express power and stability, while the “aero-blades” on the fenders’ leading edges provide optimum airflow around the tires and along the body.  The scoop in the fenders’ trailing edges assists in providing front downforce and optimization of side airflow.  The aggressive front end, with a large hood budge and single air intake, provides a sophisticated style as well as undisturbed airflow for power and cooling.  New “super wide beam” headlights feature three additional sub-reflectors (compared to conventional lights) to give a wider spread to the illumination area.

The Nissan GT-R’s large, four-passenger cabin features a sloping “aero blade canopy” roofline and curved C-pillar “sword edge,” which expresses the distinctive GT-R identity, as well as facilitating air flow around the rear of the vehicle.  The GT-R’s hallmark four-ring taillights, efficient rear spoiler and large, integrated ö120 exhaust tips, provides the signature rear view of the GT-R, as well as optimizing airflow along the top and under the vehicle.

The high level of advanced technology is evident even in the Nissan GT-R’s paint – which utilizes a “double clear coat” and “anti-chipping” process.  The Nissan GT-R features Ultimate Silver as a special new color, which is painstakingly hand-polished by craftsman.

An Interior Suitable for Daily Driving or Supercar Duties
Key to the Nissan GT-R’s usability as a both daily driver and a high-performance supercar is its interior, which is designed to balance functionality, a sense of ease, and comfort.

Sculpted performance bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience, and soft pads are utilized on the dash in front of the passenger and doors to give an extra level of comfort and safety.

The instrument panel surrounds the driver, with all meters and multi-function meter at a uniform height to minimize the driver’s head movement when traveling at high speeds.  A large center-mounted tachometer, with gear display on its upper right, as well as the easy-to-read graphics of the display, gives the driver instant detailed information, essential for the performance nature of the GT-R.

Functional style is also evident in the Nissan GT-R – each meter features a dial plate design that evokes the idea of engaged gears, as well as a three-dimensional metal-like ring, suggesting the multi-dimensional performance of the GT-R.  A large, metallic-framed center console features the ergonomically designed shift lever and a red “engine start” button. 

Adjustability is central to the daily-driver nature of the Nissan GT-R, with a special “set-up switch” located in the center of the instrument panel.  This switch enables the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) in three settings – Normal, Comfort or R, the high-performance setting designed for the Nissan GT-R “supercar” application.

A high-speed, high-capacity CARWINGS (Japan market) navigation system, with a powerful 30GB hard disk drive, features an easy-to-use touch pad, as well as traditional navigation switches.  The screen interface features not only the navigation system, but also an enriched entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD and CD player, and Bluetooth® *2 audio function. 

For special use in the GT-R application, the multi-function meter also includes mechanical and driving information for safe high performance driving, including acceleration opening, brake pedal pressure, and steering angle.  It also includes an “optimal gearshift map,” to emphasize economical vehicle operation.

A specially designed BOSE sound system includes two forward-facing woofers in the rear center armrest area combined with traditional door speakers.  All speakers are mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which combined with the design of the system itself, provide sound quality suitable for a supercar. 

The obsession. The dedication. The incremental performance gains. The weight-shaving engineering. The uncompromising purity of intention. The Lancer Evolution is one of the most purpose-driven performance cars on the planet. And each successive iteration of the car begs new creative thinking. Make more power, save more weight, brake a little deeper, clip the apex a little tighter. Come out of the corner a little harder. If you are reading this you already understand. The performance numbers are staggering. The four consecutive World Rally Championship driver's titles are legendary. The 4G63 motor code is street shorthand for dominance. It's automotive Darwinism.

It's evolution.

And Lancer Evolution lives up to the heritage. It now generates an incomprehensible 286 horsepower from only two-liters of displacement; this is the highest power-to-displacement ratio of any production inline four-cylinder engine in the world, at 146 horsepower produced per liter of displacement. The list of performance tweaks testifies to the vision. The refined front aerodynamics reduce lift and improve intercooler efficiency. Under the magnesium valve covers, hollow camshafts save rotational weight, and less inertia means that engine RPMs build faster and acceleration times go down. New MIVEC variable valve timing helps the engine breathe better at high revs. Aluminum roof*, hood and fender panels save weight and lower the Lancer Evolution's center of gravity. A twin-scroll turbocharger virtually eliminates turbo lag. A Vortex Generator* tunes and directs air onto the rear spoiler's new wickerbill* to generate maximum downforce at speed. High-performance Yokohama Advan^® tires claw at the road. And the revolutionary Active Center Differential continuously optimizes torque delivery to the wheels that have the most traction during cornering, with optimization settings for tarmac, gravel and snow. Want to name check some performance heritage? The Brembo^® multi-piston brake calipers and Mitsubishi Sport ABS brakes help you stop like you dropped anchor. The Momo^® steering wheel and contoured and drilled aluminum pedals make driver input feel almost telepathic. Recaro^® seats with new Alcantara^® fabric hold you in place even under the most extreme cornering loads. Tuned Bilstein^®* struts with inverted dampers improve road feel and ride quality. And lightweight aluminum alloy BBS^®* or Enkei^® wheels lower the rotational weight even more.

It's easy to forget where it all began for Smart. Not so long ago, the firm was so small it didn't even need names for its cars, trading exclusively on the two-seat coupÈ and cabrio.

How times change. The Mercedes-owned brand has now grown to the extent that it's had to rename everything it sells, bringing us the ForTwo, ForFun and ForFour. It's even announced plans for a ForMore SUV, due in 2006.

Prices have climbed, too - drivers can spend more than £20,000 on the flagship ForFun.

So to remind people of what Smart's all about, a top-value special edition has arrived. Sounding a bit like a Seventies TV show, there's more to the ForTwo Nightrun than an extra badge and some trim upgrades. In response to criticism of the flagship Brabus's price, the car offers the tuned engine in a cheaper package.



Mounted in its usual place between the rear wheels, the Nightrun's 698cc unit delivers 74bhp - 13bhp more than lesser models. That may not sound like much, but given the car's low weight, the difference is noticeable on the road.

While a 0-62mph time of 12.3 seconds is sluggish, this is due to the slow automated manual box. In-gear pace is more impressive, and this Smart easily keeps up with fast-moving traffic.

So what else has the Nightrun got to offer? Along with the modified engine, it has Brabus-badged extras including 16-inch alloys and a sports exhaust. Combined with the black paint of our test car, the Smart looks great, especially without the Brabus's garish bodykit.

Inside, buyers get a leather steering wheel with paddleshifters, plus Brabus-badged instruments, air-conditioning and a glass roof. The subtle changes add to what is already a beautifully designed and surprisingly spacious cabin.

Available as a hard-top only, the ForTwo Nightrun costs £10,425 - £2,350 less than the Brabus. But it's only cheap compared to other Smarts. A basically equipped mini One is £355 more, and offers greater practicality and versatility.

The ForTwo's charm is as strong now as it was when it was launched as the City CoupÈ in 1998, and the Nightrun provides the ideal spec for many. If only it was less expensive, the ForTwo would still be the pick of Smart's range.

Out of the 1,000-or-so miles covered in Toyota's gargantuan  Sequoia SUV, it must be said that only about 100 were driven on roads that could truly test its prodigious off-roading abilities - i.e., not freeways.

But when those 100 miles were spent roaming in the Sequoia National Park, it seems somehow a more impressive achievement.

And as most of these vehicles sold in California will be bought within the greater Los Angeles area, it is questionable whether the average motorist will cover that amount of parkland in several years of driving the Sequoia.

More about the off-roading later, first to the enjoyable and quiet 500-odd mile round trip for a weekend camping in the national park, setting off at the somewhat-unreasonably early hour of 7am.

Admittedly, we were supposed to leave at 5am, but that idea got jacked with a swift reach to switch off the alarm clock. The park’s river trout could wait, at least for another hour or two.

The Sequoia performed admirably on pretty much empty freeways, its smooth ride helped by the nifty switch which allows you to adjust the height, and therefore the tautness, of the vehicle's independent coil-link suspension.

Its huge torque - 314lb @3,400rpm - and its 4.7-liter I-Force 32-valve V8 engine, with 273hp on tap, made for some serious acceleration up to the summit of the 5 Freeway en route to the park, while its electronic brake-force distribution system and traction/stability controls did their job by safely stopping this 5,200lb beast on the way down.

Fuel consumption, at 15mpg in town and 18mpg highway, is slightly better than average for this uber-class of SUVs, which includes the Chevvy Tahoe and Ford Expedition.

Inside the cabin was comfortable, with an almost laughable amount of space - it carries seven passengers - for just the two of us and our camping gear.

Head-room alone was 41 inches, while the vehicle's 78-inch width gave plenty room to stretch out elbows, with three adults able to sit comfortably side by side in the back two rows of seats, which are fully, and easily, adjustable.

Power seats gave support to the high-driving position behind the power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. The six-CD changer is standard and impressive for its class, alongside ten cupholders that held secure 1.5-liter water bottles on bumpy roads.

And most importantly for me: though the car boasts a class-leading five-star rating for safety, it does not sound all manner of warning bleeps that give you an instant headache - this was early morning, remember - when you do something its computer disagrees with.

On the subject of potential minor annoyances, it must be said that the keyless entry system worked flawlessly in my occasionally incapable hands.

But the Sequoia excels in its natural environment, where it proved invaluable in traversing the twisting, narrow roads of the Sequoia National Park. Though the dry late-summer conditions were perfect for hiking and fishing - fresh river-caught rainbow trout for breakfast, anyone? - I almost wished for the harsh climate of winter to fully test the Sequoia's ability on ice and snow.

But judging by the capability of Toyota's Land Cruisers that I ragged around on isolated Bolivian salt-flats last year, you can safely say that trouble-free off-roading is a Toyota speciality.

Its massive towing capacity - the Sequoia can easily tow over 6,000lb - would also have come in handy for towing a trailer-tent or boat, though this too was not tested.

Perhaps this car - and indeed the trip - is best summed up by Toyota's promotional blurb: "The adventure may begin at your destination, but your vacation starts in the Sequoia

Mitsubishi has apparently asked Chrysler to suspend production of the Mitsubishi Raider pickup that is built alongside its Dodge Dakota brother at Chrysler’s Warren, MI, truck plant. While 6,260 Dakotas left dealer lots in February 2006, Mitsubishi managed to move just 492 units, despite having $3,000 on the hood. Mitsubishi has a 208-day supply on hand.

When looking for a reason behind this sales fiasco, easy answers are everywhere. The Raider has an unusual front end design that marries Mitsubishi’s new large grille opening – bisected by a brushed satin trim piece that looks like an oversized Klingon weapon – with the wide-fendered look of the Dakota. While meant to look tough, the truth is that the soft curves and detailing make the Raider front end look a bit “preppy” in its execution. Then there is the fact that Mitsubishi – an early player in the small pickup market – has been out of this segment for a long, long time. The local Mitsubishi dealer probably isn’t at the top of the list of most mid-size truck buyers. Some diehards may remember the Raider as a smallish two-door SUV based on the Montero that Mitsubishi used to build for Dodge, and are looking for the wrong vehicle at the wrong sales outlet.

But the real reason for this dismal performance, I believe is two-fold: (1) Mitsubishi doesn’t have the money to properly promote this vehicle, and (2) It doesn’t have the money necessary to promote itself. Once a darling of the import set, Mitsubishi was deeply wounded by past promotions that placed too much emphasis on the deal and being cool than on the product and its attributes. It has paid dearly for these mistakes, and finds itself unable to adequately promote its complete lineup with sufficient regularity to place it on people’s shopping lists. It’s sad, really, as the Raider is a very nice truck.

The interior of the Raider is modern, handsome, and peppered with bright accent pieces that are nicely integrated with the single-tone trim. A premium sound system is standard with the XLS trim level, and includes a 276-Watt audio unit with six-CD capability and six speakers and six months of free Sirius satellite radio. The seats are leather trimmed and heated, and the driver’s bucket adjusts six ways under power. There is a Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface, auto-dimming rearview mirror, height-adjustable steering column, steering wheel audio controls, a 60/40 rear seat with fold-up bottom cushion for extra storage, auto on/off headlamps, and other items that make this more than a work truck. That’s a good thing considering the four doors will often make this the vehicle used to run errands, travel the highways, or go to dinner in.

Dynamically, the Raider is…well, it’s a truck, but not some hard-to-handle monster that demands attention. The biggest problem is that the Raider is long, which makes it tough to park in tight spaces, but also improves its ride over choppy surfaces. If you don’t have to run to the mall a lot, the extra wheelbase of the four door is worth the improved ride characteristics.

The base price for the V8-powered 4WD XLS four door is $33,929. Adding the $579 protection package (bed liner and tailgate cover, bed rail protectors, hood protector, mud guards, and wheel and spare tire locks) and destination charges ($645) brings this to $35,144. Granted, this isn’t cheap – especially for a manufacturer that has been out of this segment for as long as Mitsubishi – but it also isn’t unreasonable. Bargain hunters looking for a good deal may want to head to their Mitsubishi dealer soon. It looks like there will be some bargains coming to move the metal off the lots.

Volvo has yet again proved that indeed, this brand is all about luxury, sophistication, and safety. And all these criteria are found in the Volvo S80. And this vehicle boasts of comfort, power, and safety which, as the brand claims, when put together would create Scandinavian luxury. Scandinavian luxury for them is all in all the power and the capacity of a vehicle to be a machine yet has that human touch.

To preserve the Volvo amazing performance, a one of a kind online store is here to provide interested parties and Volvo owners with super durable parts that are not only impressive in performance but very low priced as well. By simply accessing http://www.innerauto.com, you can actually browse through the site¡¦s online collection of durable and quality Volvo parts and accessories. This collection of Volvo parts include a/c condensers, fog lights, gas tanks, headlights, spoilers, tailgates, and wheels among many others. Auto Parts Inner also has a collection of Volvo S40 parts, S60 parts, Volvo S70 parts and many others. This provides you with Volvo parts that would give your vehicle a renewed life.

Holding four doors, the Volvo S80 is yet another vehicle that has been making heads turn, as well as making people take a second look. It is a front wheel drive luxury car and this was first introduced back in the year 1999. It was actually introduced to the public so as to replace the aging Volvo 960 sedan. If you have noticed, all Volvo models have a wagon version. However, this time around, Volvo decided not to include a wagon body style with the Volvo S80. The competition of this vehicle includes the Acura RL, the Audi A6, the BMW 5 series, the Cadillac STS, the Infiniti M, the Jaguar S Type, the Lexus GS, the Mercedes Benz E class, and the Saab 9-5.

The first batch of Volvo S80s came onto the streets as the Volvo flagship model. In fact, this vehicle has been making well so much so that up until the present, it continually holds that spot as the Volvo flagship model. This vehicle has been built on the Volvo P2 platform. The first two trim levels that came with this vehicle were the 2.9 and the T6. The 2.9 level held a 2.9 L I6 engine. On the other hand, the T6 came with a twin turbocharged 2.8 L I6 engine.

The present Volvo S80 boasts not only of power and performance but a couple of features to enhance delivery and performance. There is the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system. This ensures the driver a relaxing driving experience by its radar sensor that slows down the vehicle in cases when the vehicle in front of you is slowing down. There also is the Collision Warning and Brake Support (CWBS) which immediately alerts you with a flashing red light when there are sudden changes in the traffic ahead of you. This gives you the chance to slow down to avoid any kind of rear end crash.

From the company that produced the Hyundai Sonata comes another vehicle that has been predicted to make waves, which indeed it did. This vehicle is the Daewoo Leganza and it is a midsized sedan that was produced in South Korea. This vehicle lived from 1997 up until 2002 and later on, the Daewoo Magnus came to replace the Daewoo Leganza.

During the time that this vehicle roared and soared on the streets and highways, it held the title as being the small car flagship of Daewoo. The company responsible for the Daewoo Leganza claims that its name is a mixture of two Italian words ¡V ¡§elegante¡¨ which means elegant and ¡§forza¡¨ which means power. In fact, this vehicle from Daewoo holds an exterior design and style that has been the product of the joint efforts of two parties. These parties are the company¡¦s in house stylists and the renowned ItalDesign operation of Guigiaro. If the Daewoo has come out to be an astounding and magnificent vehicle because of its exemplary design, then it would certainly not be much of a surprise after all ItalDesign is the very same party which is responsible for the design and style of other fine cars that includes the Lexus GS 300.

The engine that the Daewoo Leganza held was a 2.2 liter engine with four inline cylinders and valves and this machine actually has the capacity and capability to produce some 131 units of horsepower. To provide a much better handling for the vehicle, installed in the vehicle is an electronically controlled four speed automatic transmission system. The vehicle actually measures 105.1 inches of wheelbase, 183.9 inches of length, a width of 70.0 inches, and a height of 56.6 inches. Its fuel economy is not so bad after all it can do 20 miles per gallon when driving in the city, and some 29 miles per gallon for highway driving.

The Daewoo Leganza could be considered as a package in itself. After all, it has been accented and adorned with various features not only for safety and for performance, but for functionality and comfort as well. It has a door that has been crafted to eb good and solid. The cabin could be covered in fine leather if the owner chooses to, although it comes with the standard wood trim for a more earthly feel. Other features include four wheel disc anti lock brakes, a rack and pinion steering, air conditioning, power windows, locks, and mirrors, air bags, and a keyless entry system.

As passionate as Daewoo is in continually upgrading its products so as to suit every customer and patron¡¦s needs, http://www.accessoriesgiant.com is always looking for superior and quality workmanship for its product lines. Only the finest Daewoo accessories comprise its stock. By visiting Auto Accessories Giant¡¦ twenty four hour online collection of Daewoo accessories, one could actually find a cornucopia of them from the earliest to the latest versions. Each product has been crafted so as to fit Daewoo vehicles. This online store supplies discount Daewoo accessories and products for various Daewoo vehicles and products include Daewoo Espero accessories, Lanos accessories and the Daewoo Nubria accessories among many others.