2006 New-Model News

Compacts & Hybrids
At the frugal end of the gas-mileage scale, Honda has redesigned its subcompact Civic, including the Hybrid sedan. Touted for its "one-motion profile," the eighth-generation Civic coupe and sedan are said to be the most modified ever. In addition, Honda has a new version of its Civic Si coupe, packing a fresh 197-horsepower engine.


Kia offers a reworked Rio sedan and Rio 5 hatchback, with additional horsepower and bigger dimensions. Hyundai has given its mini-sized Accent comparable growth treatment. Details are not yet available on the replacement for Dodge's Neon, or for the 2006 Toyota Echo.


Hybrids with gasoline/electric powertrains continue to gain attention, but the number of new models is rising slowly. Furthermore, all new 2006 hybrids are SUVs. Mercury now offers a Mariner Hybrid, which is closely related to the Ford Escape. Both the new Lexus RX 400h and Toyota's Highlander Hybrid promote performance as much as economy.

Sport & Performance
High performance sells—so far. BMW is issuing a pair of "M" edition vehicles with 500-horsepower V-10 engines for their 2006 model year: the M5 sedan and, coming later, the M6 coupe. Although Chevrolet redesigned its Corvette last year, a hot Z06 edition for 2006 unleashes a 500-horsepower, 7.0-liter V-8.


Mazda's new Mazdaspeed6 adds potent turbocharging to the currently tame Mazda6 sedan. After a decade and a half in its initial form, Mazda has a new MX-5 Miata. The 2006 roadster is bigger, with a wider cockpit and a 170-horsepower engine.