2006 California Auto Show

In its goal to establish itself as a major force among auto shows, the 2006 California International Auto Show ironically relied on introductions from the domestic "Big 3" as the major anchors to its five-day event. The fact that virtually all Asian imports were essentially silent, save for relatively large exhibits, was underscored by the fact that the domestic manufacturers' combined market share in Southern California has continued to drop, making it imperative they make a big play wherever they can.

The General's Charge
Thus, the opening shot was fired by General Motors, which unveiled its new 2007 GMC Denali Yukon and lesser-priced sibling, GMC Yukon. Built on a new GM SUV platform that includes a much stiffer, fully boxed frame, the Yukon family features a distinctive two-piece grille, wraparound front and rear fascias, headlights similar to its Cadillac Escalade brother's (yet once again with round lenses), integrated running boards and a power lift-gate.


What's most important is that these stylish workhorses of GM's full-size SUV group, due to arrive in the first quarter of 2006, offer more power (320 hp for the 5.3L V-8) and better fuel economy than the vehicles they replace—something GM is very proud to emphasize.

Ford's PZEV Push
Ford chose fuel economy as its subject of focus, stating that "when buying a new car, consumers want to feel satisfied they've made a smart purchase...this means excellence in fuel economy and emissions, as well as in traditional areas like acceleration and handling." With that, Ford personnel announced several introductions. First, owing to its ongoing love affair (and profitability) with trucks, the new 2006 Harley-Davidson F-150, continuing the successful cross-promotion and now offering 300 hp behind that billet grille. The SuperCab is the only F-150 with all-wheel drive and massive 22-inch wheels.


And while pushing performance and economy, the company stated the flagship Ford GT, now in its second and final year of production, earns thriftiness props, with 21 mpg, thus allowing the highly desirable sports car to waive the Gas Guzzler tax.