Variance

First Class On and Off the Road Mercedes-Benz is to unveil a new highlight in the luxury Sport Utility Vehicle market segment: the GL-Class. The seven-seater premium off-roader offers excellent handling both on and off-road and pampers occupants with its extremely spacious accommodation and the comfort of a luxury saloon. The GL-Class sets another milestone with PRE-SAFE®, the comprehensive safety concept, a first in this market segment. With its poised, assured presence, the GL-Class leaves you in no doubt about its aspirations to conquer this competitive market segment. The distinctive design idiom exudes power and exclusivity. Calm body surfaces, powerful, wedge-shaped features and striking details give the impression the luxury off-roader is surging forward even when stationary. The spacious body (length 5088 mm, width 1920 mm, height 1840 mm) is beautifully proportioned. Superlative comfort whatever the conditions The welcoming interior with its top-quality materials provides passengers with that feel-good atmosphere as only Mercedes knows how, with more than ample space for up to seven passengers. The GL-Class offers superb comfort on board - whether you’re just popping into town, cruising hundreds of kilometres or negotiating rough terrain. Occupants still enjoy good freedom of movement even on the two full-sized individual seats in the third row of seats. The distance to the middle row of seats is 815 mm, with 979 mm headroom for passengers. If you need fewer seats, the rear individual seats can be stowed electrically at the push of a button, either individually or in tandem to provide a completely flat load surface. In the five-seater version, luggage compartment capacity is 1240 litres – an impressive benchmark value in the class. The GL-Class can provide up to 2300 litres of load capacity, with the load compartment measuring 2128 mm in length. In line with the wide range of applications handled by the versatile all-rounder, the THERMATIC automatic climate control system fitted as standard in the GL 320 CDI provides consistent temperature for all seven seats both in the depths of winter and on those sweltering summer days. The versions with V8 engines such as the GL 420 CDI, GL 450 and GL 500 come with the standard-fit multi-zone THERMOTRONIC system, which offers even more climatic comfort. Other standard-fit convenience and comfort appointments include ARTICO man-made leather upholstery combinations, electrically adjustable front seats and a fixed rear glass roof above the third row of seats. Intelligent solutions promote excellent safety The GL-Class makes full use of the advantages of its unitised body, combining optimum strength with intelligent lightweight steel design. The result is excellent passive safety that is far superior to comparable models with a ladder-type frame. Combined with the front and rear deformation zones, the high-strength occupant cell forms an efficient base for the occupant protection systems that include: -Adaptive, two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger -Sidebags in the front, and in the middle row of seats as an option -Windowbags across all three rows of seats from the A to the D-pillar -NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger as an option -3-point seat belts on all seven seats Seat-belt tensioners and adaptive belt-force limiters for the driver and front passenger, seat-belt tensioners and single-stage belt-force limiters on the outer seats in the middle row With the optionally available PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system, a world first in this market segment, Mercedes-Benz has raised safety to an even higher level. The system's most striking feature: passive and active safety systems are networked with each other. PRE-SAFE® utilises the sensors in the dynamic handling control systems such as ABS, BAS (Brake Assist) and ESP® and optimises the protective function of the passive safety components in potential accident situations. The GL-Class also takes the often neglected issue of pedestrian protection to a new level. The front section includes precisely defined ample crumple space between the body and the major assemblies underneath. In conjunction with impact zones that are designed to yield, this design provides a high degree of protection both for pedestrians and cyclists. The GL-Class meets all the requirements of a state-of-the-art, luxury SUV, or even redefines them on a higher level. Yet the hallmark Mercedes off-roader genes such as superlative robustness, ruggedness and long-term durability have not been compromised. It is not for nothing that the model designation echoes the legendary precursor of all Mercedes-Benz off-road vehicles – the G-Class. The evergreen off-roader is now entering its 26th year of production and will continue to be marketed alongside the new GL-Class. Outstanding handling on and off-road 4MATIC – the permanent four-wheel drive from Mercedes-Benz – provides the GL-Class with superior handling whatever the conditions. Together with the standard-fit AIRMATIC air suspension, the precise speed-sensitive power steering and the ADS Adaptive Damper System also fitted as standard, the imposing GL-Class (wheelbase 3075 mm) handles impressively. Handling when pulling a trailer is no less impressive thanks to the ESP® component TSA (Trailer Stability Assist). TSA defuses critical driving situations involving a trailer before they become dangerous by precisely applying the brakes, while AIRMATIC provides fully automatic level adjustment. Special off-road features such as Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), hill-start assist and off-road ABS assist the GL-Class driver off road. The Off-Road Pro engineering package, standard on all ECE models, means the GL-Class can also handle the most extreme off-road terrain. This includes a two-speed transfer case with a low range ratio and 100 percent differential locks for the transfer case and the rear axle. The modified AIRMATIC air suspension, designed specifically for the more demanding conditions, increases the ground clearance to a maximum of 307 millimetres where required, and raises the fording depth to 600 millimetres. Majestic drive systems: new V6 and V8 engines The ultra-modern engine line-up in all GL-Class models provides superlative drive comfort and compelling performance coupled with superior fuel consumption figures compared with other vehicles in the class. Alongside the 165-kW/224-hp V6 engine in the GL 320 CDI, the range of diesel models includes the new-generation high-performance V8 diesel in the GL 420 CDI, which now has an output of 225 kW/ 306 hp and maximum torque of 700 Nm. Both diesel-powered versions undercut the EU 4 limits and feature a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter. In addition to the newly developed 5.5-litre, 285-kW/388-hp engine in the GL 500, launched earlier in the new S-Class, the second unit in this ultra-modern V8 family of engines is celebrating its world premiere in the GL-Class. In the GL 450 the 4.6-litre engine develops 250 kW/340 hp. Both engines also fulfil the stringent EU 4 limits (USA: LEV II standard). All GL-Class engine variants come with the standard-fit 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT. Excellent performance and low fuel consumption result not just from the perfect combination of ultra-modern engines with 7G-TRONIC and the friction-optimised powertrain. Another important factor is the comparatively low gross vehicle weight thanks to the unitised body and the excellent aerodynamics (Cd 0.37) for such a large vehicle. Success story from state-of-the-art production facilities “Mercedes Quality – Made in America” has established itself as the company’s new trademark on the other side of the Atlantic and illustrates the success story of the DaimlerChrysler plant in Tuscaloosa/Alabama. The birthplace of the GL-Class started production in 1997 as the first Mercedes-Benz plant outside Europe. Around 600 million US dollars have been invested since 2001 in expanding and constantly modernising the plant; overall the company has invested around 1 billion US dollars. Following the extension of the Tuscaloosa plant in May 2005, its theoretical annual production capacity for all model series stands at 160,000 units. The new GL-Class is now the third model series to be built here, alongside the M-Class and the R-Class. The world premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class will take place at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January 2006. U.S. customers will be the first to savour the delights of the new trendsetter in the spring; European customers will have to wait until September 2006 for a taste of the versatile off-roader. The GL-Class will arrive in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2006. Engine line-up, standard specifications and pricing for Australia will be announced closer to the vehicle’s arrival in Australia. Link: http://www.germancarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2051208.005

Yeah, I like making my own avatars. Yours is interesting, what is it of? As far as the Camry, like I said, it's not the most thrilling car out there I agree but at least it's not as non-descript as previous generations.

Very few family sedans have thrill a minute styling... Toyota Camry: no, but moreso than outgoing model Honda Accord: no Nissan Altima: ok Mazda6: ok Chevy Malibu: no Chevy Impala: no Pontiac Grand Prix: ok Pontiac G6: ok Buick LaCrosse: no Ford Fusion: ok Mercury Milan: toned-down Fusion Dodge Charger: ok Chrysler 300: ok All my opinion but my point is, while no one should strive to build a boring car when it comes to family sedans, you can't exactly blame manufacturers that stick to plain designs.

GT-R Going Upscale: Next-gen Skyline to be sold as Infiniti in U.S., sources say KATHY JACKSON | Automotive News Posted Date: 12/5/05 LOS ANGELES - The next-generation Skyline GT-R, a high-performance sports car, will be sold as an Infiniti in the United States, say two sources familiar with Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.'s plans. The current generation is sold under the Nissan brand in Japan. Company executives have been debating whether to sell it in America as a Nissan or an Infiniti. The most recent GT-R concept was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. The production model will be shown at the Tokyo show in 2007. The sources say the vehicle will be either a 2008 or 2009 model with a sticker price of about $65,000. They say Nissan has targeted annual U.S. sales of about 1,500. The automaker showed only the car's exterior at the Tokyo show and has not said much about the powerplant. But one source says the Skyline GT-R will have all-wheel drive and two turbochargers, and produce more than 400 hp. "It will be wicked; faster than a bullet," he said. Asked to comment on the vehicle, Frederique Le Greves, head of public relations for Nissan North America Inc., said, "No decision has been made on whether it will be a Nissan or Infiniti when it comes to the United States." Some company executives fought to put a Nissan nameplate on the GT-R in the United States because it is known as a Nissan globally. The car appears in many popular racing video games in the United States, such as Sony PlayStation's Gran Turismo. But a source says in-house studies show that the expected clientele does not want to shop for such a high-end vehicle at a Nissan dealership. Infiniti dealer John Capps says the Infiniti dealer group has been lobbying for the GT-R. Capps, owner of Plaza Motor Co. in St. Louis, and former chair of the Infiniti dealer council, says "it would be a wonderful halo car." Link: http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=103715 --- This really is the right decision. People will be more willing to plunk down $70k for an Infiniti than doing so for a Nissan. Plus, if you're paying Infiniti prices, you want and expect Infiniti-level service. Very few high-end cars sell under a "lesser" brand name. We all know VW learned that the hard way.

MMNA will push the limits again with the world reveals of two more vehicles that thrill - the 2007 Eclipse Spyder and the Concept-CT MIEV - at the upcoming 2006 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in January. The company is building its strongest product portfolio in history, launching six new vehicles in less than three years, including the all-new 2006 Eclipse, Raider mid-size pickup truck, and now the '07 Eclipse Spyder. "The Eclipse Spyder and the breakthrough Concept-CT continue the excitement of the brand and demonstrate new design directions and potential future technologies," said MMNA President and CEO Rich Gilligan. "We are rebuilding our brand with products that consistently reinforce our commitment to being driven to thrill." 2007 Eclipse Spyder Based on the widely acclaimed 2006 Eclipse coupe, the '07 Spyder will provide drop-top fun combined with head-turning design. Luxurious enhancements will place the affordable 2 + 2 convertible in an attainable exotic position. Both GS and GT trim lines will be available, each with a powerful MIVEC engine and 650-watt Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio system - along with a few other surprise features usually reserved for high-priced convertibles and cabriolets. Concept-CT The world reveal of the innovative Concept-CT MIEV will showcase a forward-thinking design study in B-segment packaging. The concept's inspiration was to create a "city-technology" model - a desirable small car optimized for today's needs. Designed at the Mitsubishi Motors design center in Cypress, Calif., the Concept-CT will feature a hybrid powertrain - incorporating a representative gasoline engine with Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electronic Vehicle (MIEV) technology, a function recently shown at the Tokyo Motor Show, whereby the wheels are driven by four outer-rotor, in-wheel electric motors. Combining environmental technology and exciting design characteristics along with the all-wheel-drive MIEV system, the concept provides a glimpse into the future of next-generation hybrid powertrain vehicles. The "in-wheel motor" component systems, with accompanying graphics and video, will be displayed at the Mitsubishi NAIAS exhibit. 2006 Model Lineup The full lineup of 2006 Mitsubishi Motors North American models also will be on display. Link: http://www.globalautoindex.com/news.plt?no=1285

I've got enough people for this one but I'll keep you (and ocn) in mind for the next article like this I do.

Couple of 2006 Explorers.

I've gotten replies from wildmanjoe, z28, and oldsmoboi so far. Still waiting on the others.

...and it kicks monumental ass. B) I actually haven't listened to the entire thing yet but the song I'm currently listening to, "Coming Undone", is one of my instant favorites. I got the deluxe album which gives me a bonus CD with extra songs, remixes, and videos. Plus, I get a one-year membership to the Korn BSC fan club. The icing on the cake was getting a free Korn poster of the album art signed by the band. Such a good day. :)

By "out", he meant "released".

Happy anniversary of birth. :CG_all:

There's a bit of silver lining.

So you could have a "mood car". -"Hey Asshole You Cut Me Off!" Red -"Go Ahead and Pass Me" Green -"This Traffic is Pissing Me Off" Black

The interior is obviously the XLE (top-level) trim. I'm curious of what the SE (maybe metallic trim?) and entry-level interiors are like.

Worst premiring color ever...pea green. I have to say though, this looks to be the first Camry in a long while (if not ever) that seems to take a risky styling approach, IMO. A bit derivative but risky.

I'm a young punk kid that doesn't appreciate the classics, so I'm going to say this was my favorite Eldorado :P :

Oh, don't worry about personal biases. This is kind of an opinion piece anyway. I've sent you and turbo PMs. I'm hoping I can make a great article with your guys' input. :CG_all:

I don't know for sure but I've heard it's not good for dealers if they get anything less than what would be a 4 or 5 on a scale of satisfaction ranging from 1 to 5. Supposedly they get in trouble with the company or they don't get a bonus or something. Don't quote me on this, though.

Sent PMs to Flybrian, Oldsmoboi, z28luvr01, and wildmanjoe. (Couldn't tell by your reply if you wanted to participate, mightymouse.)

Ok, well I'll PM you guys with the questions in a few minutes, I suppose.

My first guess was a Pontiac Montana SV6. :P Not my taste but a nice-looking car nonetheless. Congrats on the purchase. B)

Thanks guys. :) Anyone else? I'm thinking I want to get at least five people.

Well, taking all of this into account in addition to what others have said, if your current co-lessee is really hesistant about this and you feel that bad about asking your parents, it may be best to wait on the G6 for now. It's like Croc said, either you ask your parents and pay them back or you may as well forget about it.

In Quebec, "LaCrosse" is slang for "masturbation".

It depends. How competent/confident do you feel as a driver? Do you consider yourself a safe and careful driver? I can understand your and his apprehension but if it's that big a concern, it all comes down to how much you really want the car. Failing reassuring your co-lessee, if you don't want to feel like a burden to your family maybe the best thing would be to hold off on the G6 until you can afford it on your own. I don't know how helpful this was but I wish you luck. :)