Variance

I didn't care much for the new Mustang (mainly the face) but it's at the point now where I could see myself owning one.

No Vauxhall VX for Britain Somewhere in England, Jeremy Clarkson weeps (at least I'd like to think so). British performance fans should prepare themselves for a disappointment. Even though General Motors' 'global' sports car will make it to Europe badged the Opel GT, it won't be coming to the UK. While bosses were originally keen to bring the two-seater GT here, Vauxhall can't make financial sense of converting the rear-wheel-drive model to right-hand drive and fitting Griffin badging. After taking into account promotional costs and the number of likely sales, they decided we Brits could do without it. Read "Figures don't add up for next VX" @ Auto Express

Good day: Ferrari Mondial Ferrari 360 Convertible Bentley Continental GT Mazda CX-7 Two Nissan Versas (becoming quite the common sight around here) ...then another puke green 2007 CR-V had to go and ruin it.

Do you live in Canada because aside from the not standard ABS, none of that sounded accurate.

[source: DaimlerChrysler]

Factory-integrated special protection for complete safety Common to all Mercedes-Benz Guard vehicles is the philosophy of integrated special protection. This means that, rather than retrofitting the protective features for the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall etc. in an already finished vehicle, the specialists fully integrate them into the bodyshell on a dedicated production line. This effectively creates a coat of armour around the entire passenger cell. Even the roof frame struts, door locks, door gaps, exterior mirror mountings and other components are incorporated into this high-security concept. Only the integrated protection concept allows highly effective detailed solutions of this kind and enables Mercedes-Benz Guard models to offer such complete protection. Specialists see to it that any potential weakspots are fully protected: at gaps in the body, at the doors or at the joins between metal and glass sections, an ingenious, overlapping system prevents projectiles from penetrating the interior. Hence Mercedes-Benz Guard vehicles provide their occupants with seamless all-round protection. High Protection or Highest Protection is combined with hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality, even in those areas where post-production access would be all but impossible. A further advantage of integrated special protection is that the protective features actually reinforce the body structure rather than exerting extra strain. In addition, our integrated design approach means that any body-structure reinforcements required due to the weight of the protective elements can be integrated right from the very start. These reinforcements include chassis suspension units or sturdier door hinges and window frames, for example. The window frames support the special side windows which are coated on the inside with a tough polycarbonate layer, while the hinges have to support doors whose weight is increased to over 100 kg on account of their special-protection features. Despite this extra weight, the hinges operate smoothly and reliably for the entire lifetime of the car. The result is extraordinary longevity and the same exceptional quality all round that distinguishes Mercedes-Benz standard-production models. All Mercedes-Benz Guard models display the same outstanding ride comfort and effortlessly superior handling as their series-production counterparts. Furthermore, generously dimensioned chassis components and brakes ensure that their handling qualities are almost on a par with those of the standard-production models, thus giving the driver an optimal driving feel with high dynamic reserves at all times. The chassis is also designed to provide hallmark Mercedes ride comfort despite the extra weight. Thanks to the seamless integration of the special-protection features, the paint quality and corrosion protection also match the high standards of conventional Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. And, needless to say, all Guard models can be serviced in any Mercedes-Benz workshop. Combination of high-tech materials For a high level of protection, the passenger cells of Mercedes-Benz Guard vehicles are clad in armour made of state-of-the-art materials such as glass/plastic combinations, high-strength special steel or special steel-and-plastic composites. Mercedes engineers use high-alloyed special steels and are constantly researching new materials to determine the optimal degree of protection for each particular resistance level. They do this on an in-house firing range equipped with laser measuring devices. This commitment to exploring the potential of new materials and technologies has made Mercedes-Benz the number-one trailblazer in the field of special-protection vehicle development – a position it has held for several decades. The experts' aim is to reconcile the highest degree of protection with the lowest possible weight. Armour that is invisible from the outside On the outside, there is hardly any difference at all between a Mercedes-Benz Guard Saloon and its standard-production counterpart. That's because when it comes to special protection, discretion is just as much of a must as trust, reliability and quality. Statesmen, diplomats and senior business figures all over the world appreciate being able to travel incognito in vehicles that do not immediately betray their special status. But even those customers who are less in the public spotlight realise that discretion is the best form of protection. And because the protective elements in Mercedes-Benz Guard models are already integrated into the bodyshell, they not only offer extremely effective protection, they are also inconspicuous in everyday life. Nobody actually sees the hard core that lies within.

Safety of the very highest calibre (continued) New assistance system for stop-and-go traffic Brake Assist PLUS can be specified in conjunction with another modified system in the shape of DISTRONIC proximity control. In stop-and-go traffic, this radar-based system maintains the desired distance between the car and the vehicle in front, automatically decelerates the Saloon at a rate of up to four m/s2 – to a complete standstill if necessary – and then accelerates the car back up to the speed programmed in by the driver. Brake Assist PLUS, the PRE-SAFE® brake and DISTRONIC PLUS are also supplemented by a new radar-based Parking Assist system which warns of an impending collision in plenty of time when the car is reversing. Infrared headlamps for enhanced safety in the dark The new Mercedes-Benz night view assist system further helps to reduce the risk of accidents in the dark. The system is based on infrared light which is invisible to the human eye and therefore does not dazzle oncoming traffic. Two infrared headlamps illuminate the road ahead and extend the driver's range of vision considerably when dipped beam is switched on. An infrared camera on the inside of the windscreen records the reflected image of the road and projects it onto the instrument cluster display. Control concept with COMAND controller and hotkeys The control concept has been further enhanced. Key features include special hotkey-type buttons which provide fast access to frequently used functions. Depending on his or her preferences, the driver can operate the radio, TV receiver, CD/DVD changer, car phone and navigation system using conventional switches, via buttons on the multifunctional steering wheel or with the help of the enhanced COMAND system. The Cockpit Management and Data System - COMAND for short – features a new design and now offers even more options. The central operating unit is the new COMAND controller on the transmission tunnel, which can be used to select the main menus and submenus as well as activate the functions. The telephone keypad is concealed beneath the handrest lid. The large, swivelling COMAND colour display is positioned at the same height as the instrument cluster and is therefore even better placed within the driver's and front passenger's field of vision. COMAND includes a car radio, a CD/DVD player and a slot for PC memory cards (PCMCIA cards) as standard. As an option, Mercedes-Benz can equip COMAND with a hard-disc-based navigation system which enables even faster route calculation than before. Enhanced multicontour seats and a relaxing back massage Mercedes customers can tailor the newly developed seats for the S-Class to their individual comfort needs. Twelve-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar supports are specified as standard, whilst optional extras include heated and actively ventilated luxury seats, multicontour seats (front and rear) or dynamic multicontour seats (front). Individualisation options for even the most unusual customer requests Each Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard displays its own unique brand of styling thanks to an extensive range of appointments similar to that available for the standard-production S-Class, including a choice of paint finishes, leather upholstery and wood trims. There is just the one constraint: none of the appointments are allowed to impair the level of occupant protection. The designo range is also available to give the S 600 Guard an even more personal touch. Plus the interior can be fully tailored to the most specific of requirements, enabling the creation of a relaxed and comfortable environment in which the owner can work on the move or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. Uncomplicated service and comprehensive support It goes without saying that all Mercedes-Benz Guard Saloons can be serviced or repaired at any Mercedes-Benz service outlet – a key component of our comprehensive, uncomplicated, high-level service concept. Service also includes one-to-one assistance and support for those looking to purchase a Mercedes-Benz Guard vehicle. As well as giving buyers tailored advice and a detailed explanation of the vehicle and its functions, we offer intensive chauffeur training so that S-Guard drivers can get to know the vehicle inside out. Topics covered by these courses for the chauffeur elite include the right response when faced with threats, lessons in driving physics and active training sessions in which drivers learn how to master control of the heavier car in tricky situations.

Safety of the very highest calibre Launched in October 2006, the new S 600 Guard based on the S-Class with long wheelbase (3165 mm) is the flagship model in the Mercedes-Benz Guard range. An output of 380 kW/517 hp and a peak torque of 830 Nm ensure powerful, effortlessly superior propulsion, so the extra weight of around 1400 kg is scarcely noticeable in everyday life, as well as allowing the vehicle to escape from dangerous situations extremely quickly should the need arise. The interior space concept, which offers all four passengers first-class luxury, the outstanding ride comfort and the effortlessly superior handling – all hallmarks of the standard-production version of the new S-Class – remain virtually unaffected. Generously dimensioned chassis components and brakes lend the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard Saloon handling qualities that are almost on a par with those of the series-production model and provide the driver with an optimal driving feel at all times. Plus the chassis has been designed so as not to impair the exceptional level of comfort that Mercedes cars are renowned for. Fully-enclosed protective cage Thanks to its factory-integrated protective components made of high-alloyed special steels and bulletproof glass, which form a protective shell all the way around the passenger cell, the new top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz Guard model provides a unique level of protection against attacks and threats posed by violent crime. The armour resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and therefore meets the requirements of the Euro standard for resistance levels B6/B7. Furthermore, when attacked with explosives or hand grenades, the S 600 Guard meets additional requirements that are not even stipulated by any standard, as tested and certified by public and independent organisations. Chassis modified to take the extra strain The Mercedes engineers completely redesigned the chassis to cope with the extra weight of the protective elements, focussing on the following areas: *Reinforcement of the links between the chassis components and the bodyshell *Specifically targeted modification of the chassis components themselves *An additional steel spring on the rear axle to support the air suspension *Larger twin-calliper front brake discs, for outstanding deceleration whenever required *Run-flat wheels developed by Michelin (PAX), featuring an inner supporting ring on a special wheel rim and offering outstanding run-flat properties even when the tyres are completely deflated Even the electronic control systems such as ESP® have been completely redesigned by the chassis specialists and adapted in line with the changed requirements and extra weight. This is especially important in terms of offering the S-Guard driver effective assistance in emergency situations. In addition, the S 600 Guard is fitted with the full complement of airbags and a fully-fledged version of the unique PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. Fully equipped for emergencies The special-protection equipment package for the new S 600 Guard also incorporates the following features (selected examples): *An emergency fresh-air system (optional) which effectively counteracts dangerous gaseous substances. Sensors detect smoke or tear gas, whereupon the air-conditioning system automatically blocks the supply of fresh air from outside. In addition, fresh air from an on-board compressed-air cylinder creates a slight overpressure in the interior so that even the finest of gases and substances have immense difficulty penetrating the passenger compartment. The driver can also activate the emergency fresh-air system manually as a precaution *A fire-extinguishing system with twelve nozzles and two cylinders of extinguishing agent. Triggered either by heat sensors or manually *A pneumatic emergency control system for the power windows, which operates independently of the on-board electronics *An emergency boot opening facility which allows occupants to free themselves from the boot of the car by means of a switch located on the inside of the boot lid *A special-protection fuel tank that reseals itself if perforated by projectiles *An optional Panic Alarm System which can be activated from anywhere in the vehicle. It locks the doors to create a protected zone and alerts the outside world by means of visual and audible alarm signals. It also allows communication with the outside world via an intercom *A rear camera which monitors the area behind the vehicle *A heated front windscreen and heated front windows, and this despite the use of special glass *An infinitely adjustable doorhold system for all four doors *Rear doors that are pulled shut automatically over the last few millimetres *Electric roller blinds in the rear replace the previously fitted curtains so as to be less conspicuous when driving in traffic All the innovations of the new S-Class Naturally, the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is equipped with the same technical innovations that make the flagship Mercedes S-Class the number-one trailblazer in passenger car development and the world's best-selling luxury saloon. These include important new developments such as Brake Assist PLUS and the new PRE-SAFE® brake in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS, complete with radar sensors, night view assist and the enhanced PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. The Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS) radar sensors detect other vehicles in front of the car. If the S-Guard gets too close to the vehicle ahead or approaches it too quickly, the system warns the driver. If there is a risk of a collision, it instantaneously calculates the optimal braking power required and makes this available immediately as soon as the driver starts braking, even if the brake pedal is not pressed hard enough. The unique PRE-SAFE® brake – a world first – supplements Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS) and goes one step further still by braking the car automatically with around 40 percent of the maximum braking power if there is a serious accident risk. This substantially reduces the number of head-to-tail collisions and the risk of occupant injuries. Mercedes-Benz combines Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® brake with the equally unique PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system which offers even more safety functions in the new S-Class. PRE-SAFE® identifies situations which might turn into accidents: if the deceleration rate exceeds a set level or if there is a risk of skidding, the system tensions the front seat belts as a precaution and inflates air cushions in the multicontour seats to provide support and hold the driver, front passenger and rear passengers firmly in place.

In Depth: Mercedes-Benz S600 Guard Stuttgart, Oct 16, 2006 - Mercedes-Benz has completed the new S-Class range by introducing an armoured special-protection model. Thanks to its factory-integrated protective features, the new S-Guard provides a unique level of protection against attacks and threats posed by violent crime. The new model is initially available in Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard guise, with a twelve-cylinder engine and a long wheelbase. The new Mercedes-Benz S-Guard is the logical continuation of an almost 80-year unbroken tradition in the development of special-protection vehicles. This new top-of-the-range Guard model is produced in Sindelfingen, Germany by vastly experienced specialists working on the principle of integrated special protection. In effect this means that, rather than retrofitting the protective elements in the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall etc. of an already finished vehicle, they fully integrate them into the bodyshell on a dedicated production line. All the body-structure reinforcements required due to the extra weight of the protective elements can therefore be incorporated right from the start. The resulting vehicles offer hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality combined with comprehensive Highest Protection, including in those areas where post-production access would be all but impossible. Outstanding comfort and effortlessly superior performance The S-Class interior space concept, which makes for a first-class ambience combined with outstanding ride comfort for all the occupants, not to mention effortlessly superior handling, remains virtually unaffected. Furthermore, generously dimensioned chassis components and twin-calliper front brakes lend the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard Saloon hallmark Mercedes handling qualities and provide the driver with an optimal driving feel at all times. Plus the chassis has been configured so as not to impair the sumptuous level of comfort that distinguishes the standard-production S-Class. At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is a twelve-cylinder biturbo engine developing 380 kW/517 hp, whose scintillating performance capability allows the luxury saloon to escape from dangerous situations with breathtaking speed. The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard offers Highest Protection and has been engineered to resistance level B6/B7, as tested and certified by state-approved organisations. Its armour resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and provides protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system. Yet the Highest Protection that underpins the new Guard Saloon is scarcely noticeable from the outside. After all, discretion is as much of a must as trust, reliability and quality. Prominent personalities in particular like to travel incognito, wherever they happen to be, and the new Mercedes-Benz S-Guard gives them this option. All the trailblazing developments of the new S-Class The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is equipped with the same technical innovations that have made the flagship Mercedes S-Class the number-one trailblazer in passenger car development and the world's best-selling luxury saloon. These include important new developments such as Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE SAFE® brake in combination with DISTRONIC PLUS, night view assist and the enhanced PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. On top of all this, the outstanding level of interior comfort and extremely agile handling make for an effortlessly superior driving experience.

TCC Test: 2007 MINI Cooper S Updating an icon can go horribly awry, can't it? On the one extreme, you end up with New Coke and what passes for Pop-Tarts these days. On the other, you come out with something quite tasty and meaningfully improved, like the latest MINI Cooper S. Read "Preserving an icon, while letting out its trousers a bit." @ The Car Connection

TCC Test: 2007 Dodge Nitro The Nitro is a striking piece of design. But cars today have to have substance as well as style, and while it may have a leg up in fashion, in driveability it's got its work cut out to topple the likes of the Escape and Santa Fe. Read "A sharper turn in the fight for Liberty." @ The Car Connection

2007 CR-V. Toothless Joe grin and all.

Having zero car dealership buying experience, I don't really have any advice but I would like to comment on how irritating it is to hear people's view on a car sour because of bad dealers (irritation directed at the dealers, mind you).

xB Release Series 4.0 October 13, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Scion, of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the fourth and last limited production Scion for 2006, the xB Release Series 4.0 (xB R.S. 4.0), will hit dealer showrooms next month. The 2006 xB Release Series 4.0 will come in Maziora Torched Penny exterior paint. Maziora, by Nippon Paint Co. Ltd., is a polarized paint line that changes color depending on the viewing angle or light reflection. Maziora was also recently featured on a Japanese domestic special edition bB and has been used on project and show cars. The xB R.S. 4.0 features color-keyed taillights, rear spoiler and Modellista speed grille; rear bumper protector; and Release Series wheel covers. Interior features include Release Series badged floor mats and multi-color under-dash light and cup holder kit. A color-keyed Razo shift knob is standard on manual transmission models. An individually numbered brushed stainless steel badge completes the uniqueness of this vehicle. Only 2,500 units of the xB Release Series 4.0 will be built. The xB Release Series 4.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,930 over the base price of the xB for models with automatic transmission and $1,980 for models with a manual transmission. The base MSRP for the xB starts at $14,030. [source: Toyota Motor Company]

Good review. I'd sooner have this than an ugly Accord.

Uh, never mind about seeing this in America... http://www.autobloggreen.com/2006/10/13/mi...-electric-cars/

I hope this is appropriate: "We gather strength from sadness and from pain. Each time we die we learn to live again." -(author unknown)

Nissan's Newest SUV is a Rogue ...literally. Today Nissan released a sneak peek at a new small crossover utility view called the Rogue that it will be debuting at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in January. Automotive News reports the Rogue will be smaller than the Murano and be powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine when it goes on sale late next year as a 2008 model. Read "Nissan going Rogue with new CUV" @ Autoblog

Solstice with Folding Hardtop on the Way Look out Miata PRHT, the Solstice PRHT is a-comin'. A prototype Solstice with a folding hardtop has been spotted at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan. This shouldn't come as a surprise since the original Solstice concept by former Pontiac designer (and now design director at Mazda North America) Franz Von Holzhausen was a coupe. Read "Exclusive Breaking News: Retractable Hardtop Solstice Under Development" @ Pontiac Solstice News

The interior was always quite nice (it's beyond me why they never used it in the old Camry) but the exterior never did much for me. It seems like it's trying to a be cheaper, more curvaceous version of the Lexus SC.

Video spy footage of the GTR in action: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Gener...photopanel..1.*

Saab AlcoKey to be Tested on Swedish Roads Sweden has one of the best road safety records in Europe, but drinking and driving remains a serious hazard, accounting for about 35 per cent of all crash fatalities in Sweden last year (2005). Now Saab is ready for field trials in 100 cars of its innovative Saab AlcoKey, a simple, reusable device that fits conveniently in the pocket or handbag. As compact as a small mobile phone, the Saab AlcoKey module incorporates a cap covering a mouthpiece where the driver provides a breath sample before starting the car. A radio transmitter then sends a signal to the car’s electronic control unit, which will either allow the car to be started or remain immobilized if the breath sample is found to contain alcohol above the permitted legal level. Read "Saab AlcoKey Helps Drivers" @ World Car Fans

Hey, I already stopped posting Lienart reviews so you'd stop tearing your hair out; you gotta let me have this. Besides, this is newsworthy as it's the first Toyota hybrid made in the states. Previously, the Camry Hybrid was only made in Japan and shipped to the states.

2006 SEMA Preview: Nissan Versa Nissan is targeting the upcoming SEMA show as a major coming-out party for customized versions of the 2007 Versa, including a "Green with Envy" entry by 2K Motorsports Marketing done up in flat black with lime green and rainbow flake stripes by Kaotic Kustoms and an APC green LED interior package. Nissan gave Inside Line the details on six of its SEMA Versas, but the automaker is withholding the photos until the cars are unveiled at the show, which kicks off on Halloween. Read "Nissan Readies Versa for Major SEMA Offensive" @ Edmunds

*checks outside* Nope, don't see raining fire or four guys riding horses.