February 2008 - Posts
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![]()  Looking for a bigger piece of the small-car pie, Ford recently introduced its small-in-size four-cylinder Verve concept car with the hopes of replicating stateside what it has achieved in sales as a leading seller of small cars in Europe. Ford projects consumer small car purchases in the U.S. to increase by over 60% during the period between 2002 and 2012. Based on this trend of increased sales of lesser sized vehicles, it’s clear that people no longer subscribe to the belief that small cars are just for small people. What with growing global environmental concerns, skyrocketing gas prices, and roadside parking becoming, well, more of a chore than anything since the turn-of-the-century SUV boom, more and more car shoppers are considering factors of practicality over flash and machismo when making their new car commitments.
With a virtual rainbow of offerings available from competing import manufacturers, like the Fit from Honda or the new-to-the-U.S. smart fortwo, Ford is making a bold move with its entrance in to America's growing small-car world. With the Verve concept, Ford is trying to emphasize its understanding that small car benefits and lifestyle car features can indeed mesh together. Designed as a four-door sedan, Verve carries the weight of Ford’s vision to create a car that sports modern design, includes advanced electronics, is fuel-efficient and offers a whole lot of passenger and storage space within its practicality-minded frame – all while appealing to drivers of all walks of life. Expect to see elements of the Verve in Ford's small cars as early as 2010.
Research Ford vehicles in our Buyer's Guide.
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 The 2009 Nissan Murano was the best performer in the latest crash tests conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Results from this group of midsized SUVs saw span the safety spectrum, with only the Murano earning a Top Safety Pick award for good performance in front, side, and rear tests and including electronic stability control as standard equipment. All is not perfect for Nissan; The recently redesigned Murano has also been the subject of a safety recall to address airbag-related software.
Results were largely mixed from the other nine SUVs. For example, the lowest-ranked model, the Kia Sorento did earn a good rating for front crash protection and a good for rear protection, a score many vehicles fall short of. However, it got the lowest rating of poor for side protection, despite being equipped with front and rear head-curtain airbags. The rear measure assesses mainly the whiplash risk. While whiplash is a very common, often long-term injury, it is seldom fatal. The greater physical risk is with a harsh side impact that can cause significant trauma, hence the greater importance for the side rating.
The general rule that vehicles are getting better every year proves true in crash test results. The IIHS reports that in 2001, only half of the midsized models that were tested earned good ratings in the frontal offset test. In the latest evaluations, all but the Hummer H3 scored a good, and the H3 earns an acceptable rating. The low-scoring Sorento is the oldest design within this group, launched in 2003.
 The media has focused heavily on the Hummer H3’s performance, as it earned only an acceptable rating for front and side protection, and a lowly poor for the rear. It is worth noting that the H3 now has standard front and rear head-curtain airbags. This added protection was optional in 2006 and 2007, meaning those vehicles without the extra airbags may have even less occupant protection. Based on the older Chevrolet Colorado platform and engineered for extreme approach angles off road, the less-than-optimum scores are disappointing but not surprising. (The Hummer H3 fared much better in the less-stringent tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with five stars for both driver front protection and side-impact.) The bigger news would seem to be how the Dodge Nitro and Jeep Liberty did.
Tests for these twin vehicles were based on the Jeep Liberty, and the results for an all-new design are troubling. Both earned good marks for the frontal offset test—as do most new models. However, the side test results were marginal, even with front and rear head-curtain airbags. The four-door Jeep Wrangler without optional side airbags earned the same marks, however it performed better in the rear test, with a marginal rating. The Liberty and Nitro got the lowest rating, poor.
From reviewing these and other crash test results, it is clear that car buyers should not make assumptions regarding a vehicle’s safety. As the Institute pointed out in a statement, “Many cars perform much better in our side test than some of the SUVs in this group." Bigger is not always better. It pays to review the available safety features (detailed in our buyer’s guide) and check the IIHS crash-test ratings before making a purchase.
In total, IIHS has nine midsized SUVs that meets the criteria to for a Top Safety Pick:
- Acura MDX
- Acura RDX
- BMW X3
- BMW X5
- Ford Edge
- Ford Taurus X
- Honda Pilot
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- Hyundai Veracruz (built after August 2007)
- Infiniti EX35
- Lincoln MKX
- Mercedes M class
- Nissan Murano
- Saturn VUE (built after December 2007)
- Subaru Tribeca
- Toyota Highlander
- Volvo XC90
See the full release from IIHS. Learn more about car safety from our special section.
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 At the Geneva Motor Show next month, Mini will debut its new, performance-focused sub-brand, Mini John Cooper Works. (OK, so it isn’t entirely new.) Two models will be shown in ever-icy Geneva--a JCW Cooper and a JCW Clubman--each promising maximum verve in their compact packages.
Underhood, the 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder is stoked to product 207 horsepower, marking an increase of 35 horses. This mini-displacement engine will be able to reach a matching torque peak during overboost state. It otherwise tops out at 192 lb.-ft. The standard six-speed manual transmission is fortified to withstand the increased power output. The combined powertrain enables the Mini JCW Cooper to boast a 0-60 mph time under 6.5 seconds, with the larger JCW Clubman trailing just 0.3 seconds behind.
 Three levels of suspension are available, from the sporty JCW configuration, to the firmer midlevel setup, to a lowered, track-focused arrangement. The brakes are derived from Mini Challenge race cars, with red-finished calipers emblazoned with JCW logos. The brakes are supported by an alphabet soup of safety systems, such as electronic stability control and brake assist.
Inside, the cabin features a three-spoke steering wheel, glossy Piano Black interior surfaces, and checkered seating surfaces. True to form, the JCW cars offer a wide range of customization choices, such as seat upholstery types, interior colors, decor options, audio systems, and comfort features.
The new JCW Minis are expected to go on sale in the fall.
Read our last Mini Cooper S review, our last Mini Cooper JCW review, and our Mini Cooper Clubman review.
Research the 2008 Mini Cooper in our buyer’s guide.
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 As snow storms grabbed headlines this weekend, many drivers found their vehicle lacked the traction necessary to safely transport them to work, school, or the grocery store. While winter's days are counting down, it is clear from the number of roadside mishaps that not everyone was properly prepared. (Check out this Weather Channel video.) Being safe is a combination of the right tires, the right driving techniques, and simply common sense.
You may find that the tires that came on your car are perfectly adequate on most days. Do you truly know what the tires are and what conditions they were engineered for?
Many drivers think that an M+S (mud and snow) rating stamped on their tires' sidewalls assures decent traction in sloppy conditions. Granted, more-aggressive tread patterns such as those on all-terrain or even mud-terrain truck tires can offer better bad-weather traction compared to some pavement-friendly skins, but tire manufacturers actually engineer tires for specific low-grip conditions. (Learn more about winter tires.)
A main difference among winter tires, all-season-tires, and summer tires is the pliability and durability of their rubber at different temperatures. Tire engineers call it "glass transition temperature": Get them cold enough and every tire will have the grip of a Formica kitchen counter. For a race tire, it might be 40 degrees Fahrenheit. For a true winter tire it could be 60 below zero. Summer tire tread starts becoming Formica-like somewhere just below freezing. Most all-season tires are still pliable below zero, but some "ultra-high-performance all-season" tires start losing grip well before that. (Learn more about the right tires for winter.)
For the most severe conditions, tire chains can approximately double your vehicle's starting and stopping traction on snow and ice. For this reason, many states that have mountainous roads require chains to be installed during low-traction conditions. (Warning: chains are illegal in some states because of the damage they can inflict on bare pavement.)
Many people buy tire chains as part of ski-trip preparation, hoping that they'll never actually have to install them. Many ski bums have made a cottage industry out of roadside chain installation for motorists who don't want to step out of their SUVs. Fees can range from reasonable to outrageous, depending on time of day and weather conditions. These fees are avoidable, if you know how to install tire chains yourself.
When tackling winter roads, having the right rubber is a great start, though you need to exercise caution and respect the threat slippery surfaces present. Traction is not the same everywhere. It changes dramatically both as you drive down the road and, often, laterally within the same lane. A heavily traveled highway may be almost clear, but the off-ramp could be glare ice. Snowy city streets offer a surprising amount of grip, but the area just before a stop sign may be polished as if a Zamboni machine were there before you. (For more advice, read pro driver tips for handling rough weather.)
The articles linked from within this post can provide the advice to make both you and your car better prepared for slippery conditions. Given the number of people we've seen slide off the road in the past few weeks, many motorists would benefit from a few simple tips. Be sure to share, and drive safe.
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 Prior to its official unveiling at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show next month, Volvo has released the first official pictures of the all-new 2009 Volvo XC60. Positioned as a smaller alternative to the XC90, XC90, aimed at more youthful active types, Volvo claims the XC60 will be the brand’s safest vehicle. This is quite a boast from a company that has written the book on automotive safety. (Read about Volvo's safety "firsts.")
A unique City Safety system on the XC60 is engineered to help the driver avoid or reduce the effects from common low-speed impacts that occur in urban traffic. If the car is about to drive into the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car automatically applies the brakes. Smart systems have been fitted to other Volvo models, like the Collision Warning system on the S80 sedan that alerts the driver to potential, imminent collisions.
Volvo has confirmed the U.S. version will be launched with a 281-horsepower, turbocharged six-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive when it goes on sale the first quarter of 2009. Given the poor fuel economy of that engine in other applications, it is safe to assume there may be a lower-level powertrain available, such as the non-turbo 3.2-liter, 235-horsepower inline six found in the XC70. Other details will be released during the Geneva show.
Research Volvo in our buyer’s guide.
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The countdown is on for the 2008 Geneva Motor Show and some kindly manufacturers are providing an early peek at things to come. Following up the redesigned Audi A4 sedan is the wagon edition, the A4 Avant. Audi has teased us with the promise of a new high-powered, four-cylinder turbocharged engine to be unveiled next month that promises an increase in performance and fuel economy.
In Europe, the A4 already boasts a tempting array of powerplants:
1.8 TFSI – 164 hp, 184 lb.-ft.
3.2 FSI – 265 hp, 243 lb.-ft.
2.0 TDI – 143 hp, 236 lb.-ft.
2.0 TDI – 170 hp, 258 lb.-ft.
3.0 TDI – 240 hp, 367 lb.-ft.  The Avant gives the sedan a straightforward wagon treatment, benefiting from the new platform and its longer wheelbase. A shift in proportions over the previous generation gives the Avant a sleeker, sportier look while gaining handling acumen from the revised suspension. Likewise, the latest A4 range boast a more sophisticated, feature-rich interior that sees the entire car line inch up in the luxury-car ranks.
Raise the powered hatch on the Avant and you’ll find a carpet-lined cargo area with features such as a reversible cargo floor and a retractable cargo cover. Naturally, the rear seat is split 60/40, allowing flexible configurations for long items. Total cargo space is rated at 50.5 cubic feet.
To entertain the upscale family on a road trip, the Avant will be available with an iPod-compatible stereo, navigation system, and powerful Bang & Olufsen 505-watt, 14-speaker audio system. Other offered comforts will include air-conditioned comfort seats and a triple-zone climate control system.
The Avant will roll off the production line in the Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente equipment lines, with available S line exterior and sports packages.
Research the 2008 Audi A4 in our buyer’s guide.
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 The Chicago Auto Show celebrated its 100th anniversary this year with a brisk snow storm and a flurry of new model introductions. The anniversary milestone celebrates the 100th edition of the show, which was first held in 1901. Consecutive or otherwise, the Chicago event is the first new-car auto show to reach the triple digits for the number of times held.
Following a recent tradition, host Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) collected ballots from show attendees to determine which cars got their engines running.
Winners in the contest's five categories were:
- Best All-New Production Vehicle: Dodge Challenger (30 percent)
- Best Concept Vehicle: Cadillac CTS Coupe (19 percent)
- Best Chicago Auto Show World Introduction: Dodge Challenger (56 percent)
- Best Exhibit: Chevrolet (25 percent)
- Vehicle I'd most like to have in my driveway: Chevrolet Camaro "Bumblebee" (8 percent)
Nearly one-third of the voters considered the Dodge Challenger the Best All-New Production Vehicle at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, followed by the Ford Shelby GT500KR Mustang with 18 percent of the vote. (Admittedly, the voting was held before the KITT version of the Shelby GT500KR was shamed on the “Knight Rider” TV movie in a chase scene by a Ford Edge.)
In the Best of Show's closest race, only four percentage points separated the top four finishers in "Vehicle I'd most like to have in my driveway." The Chevrolet Camaro Bumblebee gathered eight percent of the vote, followed closely by other high-performance icons the Dodge Challenger, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, and Nissan GT-R.
See our picks for the 10 best new models that debuted in Chicago.
Which cars got your engine racing? Post your comments below.
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Special-editions abound (Read: 2008 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Z06), with Volkswagen of America announcing a Wolfsburg Edition Jetta 2.0T. Wolfsburg packages have been used for years to give VW models a touch of distinction and hopefully a sales boost. This latest example follows last year’s successful Wolfsburg Edition Jetta 2.5 L and will be available on about 12,500 Jettas.
This value-priced model adds 17-inch alloy wheels and leatherette seats. It is available in the following color schemes: Reflex Silver, Black, Salsa Red, and Platinum Gray. The finishing touch is obligatory “Wolfsburg Edition” badging on both front quarter panels.
The Wolfsburg Edition Jetta 2.0T is value priced at $20,875 with a six-speed manual transmission, and $21,950 with an optional six-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Research the Jetta. Read our Volkswagen Jetta review.
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 The Chevrolet enthusiasts embrace the brand’s rich performance history and are drawn to special-edition models, like the current Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car replica. The latest such vehicle resurrects a classic moniker: 427. The 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06 pays homage to the big-block Stingray models of the mid-1960s whose engines match the displacement of the Z06’s 7.0L LS7 small-block V-8.
Available this spring, the 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06 will be priced at $84,195 and includes the 3LZ premium equipment package with a custom, leather-wrapped interior. A navigation system is the only option ($1,750). Only 427 will be offered in the United States and Canada, with 78 more exported outside North America. That’s a total of 505 production vehicles – the same number of horsepower produced by the LS7 engine. As with other Corvette models, customer delivery is available at the Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The 427 Limited Edition Z06 is distinguished by:
- Crystal Red Tintcoat exterior paint with stinger-style graphics and 427 hood badges.
- Exclusive chrome wheels.
- Body-color rear spoiler and door handles.
- Exclusive dark titanium custom leather-wrapped interior.
- Special Crystal Red interior trim plate graphic pattern.
- Console armrest signed and numbered by Wil Cooksey, plant manager of GM Bowling Green Assembly Center.
- “427”-embroidered seats and floor mats.
- “Z06” sill plates.
The modern 427-cubic-inch engine enables the Corvette Z06 to race 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds and record an official quarter-mile time of 11.7 seconds at 125 mph. Chevrolet claims a top speed of 198 mph.
Those magic numbers—427—trace their origin to the mid 1960s. When the Chevrolet Mark IV V-8 debuted in the Corvette in 1965, it was called a “big-block” because it was physically larger in all respects than Chevy’s other V-8 engine, which became known as the small-block. This then-new engine started with 396-cubic-inch displacement and a peak of 425 gross horsepower. The following year, larger cylinder bores and bumped the engine to its legendary 427-cubic-inch form. It came in two power levels: 390 hp and 425 hp. The engine evolution would continue with power creeping up through the years—notably more than was officially indicated. The big-block engines appeared in what would become among the most collectible cars of the era. Without a doubt, the 2008 Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06 will be a model we fawn over at concours events, and hopefully “vintage” races, in 20 years.
For those well-heeled enthusiasts who crave more power and exclusivity, the 2009 Corvette ZR1 enters production later this summer.
Research the Corvette. Read our Corvette C6 review.
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Acura will follow up the Chicago reveal of the RL luxury sedan by unveiling the completely redesigned 2009 Acura TSX sedan at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The new TSX is larger, more powerful, and more agile than the model it replaces.
The first-generation TSX, based on the European-market Honda Accord, is a touch on the small side. It established itself as a luxury-appointed, fuel-efficient model for professionals on the move. The new TSX builds on this premise with a traditional “bigger is better” approach, growing in scale though remaining dedicated to the car’s core values. The tale of the tape shows the 2009 model has grown 2.4 inches in length and rides on a 1.3-inch longer wheelbase. The sedan has expanded three inches in width, likely providing a bit more elbow room.
Underhood is a 2.4-liter, 201-horsepower in-line four-cylinder with a broader power band and more torque than the previous engine. Buyers will have a choice of a six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift. There will be no additional charge for the automatic, whose appeal is bolstered by steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. Estimated fuel mileage is 20/28 mpg city/hwy for the manual, 21/30 mpg for the automatic.
Standard equipment includes a power passenger seat, keyless entry, automatic headlamps, premium seven-speaker AM/FM/XM/CD stereo with a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, and HomeLink remote control system. An available Technology Package upgrades the sound system to a 10-speaker surround sound setup with DVD-Audio and a navigation system.
The 2009 Acura TSX will be introduced during the New York International Auto Show media days, which occur on March 19th and 20th.
Research Acura. Read our Acura TSX review.
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 Hyundai had a busy booth at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, with the freshened Sonata sedan and i-Blue fuel-cell vehicle capturing much of the spotlight. However, the compact Hyundai Elantra Touring is worth a closer look. More than just a hatchback variation of the Elantra sedan, the Touring is based on a European model with a longer wheelbase and a more sporting character. Think better-equipped Mazda3 with a lower price and longer warranty...
The powertrain will be shared with the sedan, meaning a 2.0-liter, 138-horsepower four-cylinder with decent power and fuel economy. An interesting novelty: the manual transmission is a short-shifting B&M Racing unit. The car's character comes from the handling dynamics. The front springs are 24 percent stiffer than those on the sedan, and the rear springs are 39 percent stiffer. (Of course, part of the difference addresses the additional weight and cargo capacity for the Touring.) Both front and rear stabilizer bars are also significantly firmer.
In the sporting spirit, this small car has 11.8-inch front disc brakes and 10.3-inch rear discs. ABS and electronic stability control are standard, along with traction control and six air bags. That's a lot of safety gear for an affordable car...
Inside, there is also abundant standard equipment, including air conditioning, power windows/locks, heated mirrors, steering wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls, and eight-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support. An integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers, USB input and auxiliary input jack are also standard. The Premium-Sport package adds a power sunroof, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels. Remote keyless entry with alarm is included on all Touring models.
In total, the Elantra Touring should provide an appealing option for those shopping for an affordable, efficient, versatile vehicle. The 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring will go on sale late 2008.
Research the Hyundai Elantra.
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 Two core business hemispheres of Suzuki--recreational vehicles and automobiles--finally meet with the Equator pickup truck. Adapted with nominal changes from the Nissan Frontier, the Equator expands the Suzuki offerings and dove-tails nicely with its ATV, marine engine, and motorcycle offerings.
Unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, the Equator made its first appearance as a trio of mildly modified, SEMA-ized trucks. Under the graphics and paint jobs, we see the respected Frontier, ready for action.
The Equator will be offered in extended and crew cab configurations, with both rear- and four-wheel drive. The base engine is a 2.5-liter, 152-horsepower I-4, and the top offering is a much more potent 4.0-liter, 261-horsepower V-6. Both engines can be matched to a five-speed automatic transmission, although only the four-cylinder is available with a manual shifter. 
The bed employs the Nissan rail system, making it easy to add bed accessories, or cinch down a load. Crew cab models can be had with a roof rack.
The Equator features a unique front-end appearance, though the rest of the truck, from features to hardware, carries over from the Frontier. For truck buyers, the Equator offers a fresh mid-sized pickup truck alternative, with all the virtues of the Frontier plus a longer warranty. There is added appeal for those who own a Suzuki dirt bike or ATV and need a trail-ready truck.
The 2009 Suzuki Equator pickup truck will go on sale late 2008.
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 After releasing numerous teaser images, and collecting thousands of customer pre-orders, Dodge finally unveiled the production Challenger SRT8 at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Big muscle was on stage for the media presentation, with Paul Teutul and Paul Teutul, Jr. from Orange County Choppers surrounded by Hemi Orange, Bright Silver Metallic, and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl coupes.
The Challenger SRT8 marks the return of the Dodge muscle car after a 35-year absence, giving Mopar enthusiasts a modern coupe to rival the current Ford Mustang. Dodge bursts from the garage with its top offering, a fortified SRT8 hardtop with a 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 producing 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. Other, less-potent variations are expected later with a 5.7-liter V-8 and 3.5-liter V-6, giving the Challenger a broad line-up akin to the related Charger sedan.) The big Hemi is teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission that allows manual gear selection. 
The power is put to the ground via Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires wrapped around massive 20-inch Alcoa aluminum wheels. (Three-season Goodyear F1 Supercar tires are available.) Behind each dub is a four-piston Brembo brake caliper, painted red, promising a tenacious bite.
The front suspension uses a multilink short- and long-arm (SLA) configuration, with a five-link independent rear suspension (IRS). As on the Charger SRT8, this combination should provide respectable on-road ride qualities, yet be able to keep the car planted for aggressive handling and drag racing.
Dodge claims the following performance measures:
0-60 mph: Low 5 seconds
¼-mile: Under 14 seconds
60-0 mph: Approximately 110 feet
0-100-0 mph: Under 17 seconds
Skid pad: 0.88 g
 The interior combines classic cues and modern, bad-boy design. The cabin features race-inspired leather seats with added bolstering and an orange stripe; exclusive stitched accents on the seats and steering wheel; and four-pod gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center. More subtle is a cool Reconfigurable Display (RCD) with Performances Pages that provide drivers instant feedback on 0–60 mph time, 60–0 mph braking, g-forces, and ¼-mile time. Standard equipment includes a 13-speaker, 522-watt Kicker audio system, with the MyGIG digital jukebox system available as an option.
Pricing for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 starts at $40,095, including destination and gas-guzzler charges. The SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms this spring.
A classic reborn, the Challenger SRT8 looks to be everything the original was, and more, with a near identical profile concealing modern performance, refinement, and high-tech features. The 21st-century muscle car revival will be complete with the Chevrolet Camaro is released in about a year, giving enthusiasts the three-way, Detroit muscle showdown we’ve waited for far too long.
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 Acura pulled the cover off its updated RL luxury sedan at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, revealing a new brand design and a host of vehicle refinements. The most dramatic element of this mid-life freshening is the trapezoidal grille surround and large horizontal crossmember. This treatment represents the new face of Acura.
Beyond the grille, the refinements are subtle throughout. The engine, for example, bumps from 3.5 to 3.7 liters, gaining 10 horsepower. The RL now produces 300 horsepower from the V-6 while achieving squeaky clean ULEV-2 emissions standards. This enhanced engine is fitted with a new version of the Sequential SportShift five-speed automatic transmission. The less-than-modestly named Super Handling All-Wheel Drive has been upgraded to be quicker responding and better performing, aided by a revised steering system, upgraded coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and more aggressive wheels and tires. 
Inside, the 2009 RL features an updated cabin that addresses numerous detail items, such as easier-to-use front seat belts, door-mounted pull pockets, softer arm rests, redesigned vents, and easier actuation of climate control functions. A revised steering wheel with available genuine wood trim and metal-look accents is now fitted to the RL along with a matching wood-trimmed transmission shift knob. For 2009, additional insulation and a new Active Sound Control (ASC) noise abatement system team to help quiet the cabin for enjoying the DVD audio system.
While all good improvements, it remains to be seen if these changes are enough to jumpstart RL sales amidst stiff competition from European brands. For those shoppers drawn to the current RL’s combination of all-wheel drive and high-tech luxury, the 2009 model should deliver an even more sophisticated driving experience when it goes on sale this spring.
Research the 2008 Acura RL. Read our last RL review.
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![]() ![]()  Among the most significant unveilings at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show was the Ford Works Solutions mobile computing solution for full-sized trucks and vans. Available this fall on F-150, F Series Super Duty, and E Series, Ford Works Solutions replaces the stereo with a full computer with scalable features engineered to aid small businesses, contractors, and field managers.
Powered by Microsoft Auto, the in-dash computer provides high-speed Internet access via the Sprint mobile broadband network and navigation by Garmin. (Owners will be responsible for the monthly access fee.) The computer is equipped with a 6.5-inch touch screen, two gigabytes of memory, a slot for memory card, and a USB port. The computer works with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, offering hands-free calling with push-to-talk voice recognition, access to user address books, and the ability to receive text messages. A stylus is included for use on the touch screen. The system also comes with a wireless keyboard.
The rest of the Works Solutions system builds on this foundation, enabling the driver to use Web-based applications and connect to the office computer from anywhere. The possibilities are quite enticing for field workers, with the ability to check inventories, place orders, and print invoices by transmitting a file via Bluetooth to a battery-powered printer.
Ford Works Solutions features includes:
Tool Link - A Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system that enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the pickup box. When the vehicle is running, a pair of RFID antennas, mounted in corrosion- and impact-resistant housings on the inside of the pickup box, scan the box for the items and can reconcile against a pre-programmed inventory list. The data is transmitted to a reader mounted inside the cab and displayed on the in-dash computer screen, alerting the driver if any inventoried tools are not loaded on the truck. The driver can program custom tool lists for specific projects, such as cabinetry or deck building, ensuring every necessary item is onboard. Further, a manager could then know the inventory for workers in the field and be able to respond to customer needs by efficiently sending the person with the right goods.
Crew Chief - A fleet telematics and diagnostics system that allows small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites, and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records. Crew Chief interfaces with the vehicle’s electrical architecture and can monitor numerous diagnostic functions, including tire pressure and “check engine” light codes. The data is linked to a Web-based application, which can be used by a fleet administrator in an office or anywhere there is Internet access, including a Ford Works Solutions in-dash computer. It also can be programmed to identify user-set alerts, such as unauthorized use of a vehicle or excessive idling. The system can provide fuel calculations and fuel tax reporting, helping fleet managers and business owners manage costs more effectively.
Cable Lock – This a handy, low-tech security system developed in partnership with Master Lock to discourage theft of expensive tools too large to fit in the cab. The Cable Lock uses a retractable, eight-foot steel cable is wrapped in a protective plastic sheathing that can be woven through toolbox handles, plus secure recreational vehicles and other bed-stored items, and then locked to the truck with a cuff-style clasp. Cable Lock is easily installed on virtually any Ford pickup truck.
Ford Works Solutions will be available for dealership retrofit for Ford trucks built since 1997. Pricing was not announced, but the base system is expected to be around $2,000.
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