2007 New Model Preview

What's new and what's notably improved

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As the 2007 model year rolls out though, the roster of new and redesigned vehicles contains quite a few large vehicles, some of which are selling well. "Crossover" models continue to attract attention, even though many Americans aren't yet willing to slim down their vehicle demands. Performance reaches new heights, too, as engines grow larger and more powerful, with some promising improved gas mileage and lower emissions.

Here is a synopsis of the "all-new" vehicle models, and current models receiving notable upgrades for 2007:

Acura

Brand new for 2007, Acura's RDX "entry premium" SUV falls into the crossover category. Equipped with Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the RDX sports Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine, an all-new 2.3-liter i-VTEC four cylinder producing 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. of torque.

The completely redesigned Acura MDX also boasts the most powerful V-6 engine in a sport-utility vehicle, a 3.7-liter, 300-hp package with 9-second 0-60 acceleration claims. While reworking its TL sport sedan, Acura brought back the performance-oriented Type-S edition, this time with a 286-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. Acura's RSX sports coupe does not continue into '07.

Audi

Dubbed Q7, Audi's first full-fledged sport-utility vehicle was initially only offered with a 350-horsepower V-8, but is now also offered with an available 280-horsepower V-6. Seating six or seven, the Q7 gets Quattro all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.