2008 Volvo V50

The 2008 Volvo V50 wagon is offered in two trim levels, the 2.4i and the T5. Both come standard with front-wheel drive, but the T5 has an option for all-wheel drive as well. The 2.4i drives away with a 2.4-liter, 168 horsepower inline five-cylinder engine, while the T5's slightly larger 2.5-liter version of the same five-cylinder engine offers 227 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque. The standard transmission on the 2.4i is a five-speed manual transmission, while the T5 comes with a five-speed automatic that has "Geartronic" technology for manual gear changing. Adding the "Dynamic Trim" package to the T5 gives you a sport steering wheel, a shift knob trimmed in aluminum, and a more robust "sport suspension."

Crash-test data for the Volvo V50 is not available as of this writing, but the car's sister-sedan, the Volvo S40 earned good ratings. While this may be a sign that the V50 wagon will fare well, differences in construction and vehicle weight preclude that assumption.

Still, the 2008 Volvo V50 does have an impressive array of safety features that all come standard, including side-curtain and side-impact air bags, all-disc anti-lock brakes, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, traction control and an electronic stability system, and even a "blind spot information system" that flashes an indicator-light just inside of either side-mirror when there's a car in the corresponding blind spot.

Inside the Volvo V50, you'll find seating for five, and a sportswear-inspired interior fabrics, though leather upholstery is available. Storage space includes larger capacities in the door pockets and the center console, while the center armrest has been redesigned, and the handle for the hand brake has been made smaller.

In the 2008 Volvo V50 T5, there are new gauges, with watch-face styling and aluminum trim, while the 2.4i has the option of Nordic Light Oak. In both models the backs of the rear seats fold down separately, and the front passenger seat back also folds flat. Air conditioning, power windows and door locks, and keyless entry are all standard, as is an auxiliary jack for MP3 playback capability. The standard stereo system is an AM/FM radio with a single CD player and controls on the steering wheel, but an in-dash six-disc changer is available as an upgrade. On the 2.4i, Sirius Satellite Radio is also available as an option, but it's standard on the T5. Either way, the first six months of service are free.

External refinements of the 2008 Volvo V50 include a modified nose and tail, the former of which is more sculpted, and the Volvo logo on the grille is even larger than ever before. The "dynamic trim" package mentioned earlier also adds a spoiler to the liftgate on the T5. The standard wheels are sixteen-inch alloy, but either trim level can upgrade to 17-inch wheels and aluminum roof rails by adding a "premium package."

Fuel economy for the 2008 Volvo V50 ranges from 18-20 in the city to 26-28 on the highway, and the starting MSRP for the basic 2.4i is $26,815.

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2008 Toyota Tundra

A very versatile and powerful full-size half-ton pickup truck, the 2008 Toyota Tundra underwent a very successful redesign in 2007. This year the only significant changes are the ability to get the base model in a crew or extended cab version, and a few more features are added to the standard equipment list for the base Grade model as well as the top of the line Limited version. With the ability to tow more than 10,000 pounds the Tundra is one hard working truck that delivers a comfortable ride and is enjoyable to drive. Sharing the same platform as the GM Silverado and Sierra, the Tundra does not seem to have a significant leg up in any particular area and the fit and finish are not quite as refined. However, the MSRPs for comparably equipped Silverados, Sierras and Tundras, the Toyota gives you a similar bang for less bucks.

The Tundra is available in 3 trims, each of which has multiple variations, resulting in a total of 44 possible configurations. There are also 3 body styles-a regular cab, Double Cab, and CrewMax. Grade, SR5 and Limited trims are all available with your choice of any of the three cabs, while the regular cab is only available on the Grade models. The CrewMax provides a 5.5 bed only, but the Regular and Double Cabs are available with either a 6.5 foot bed or an 8 foot bed. The Grade models are equipped with18 inch steel wheels, dual zone air conditioning, a 40/20/40 fabric bench seat and an AM/FM/CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. With the SR5 models you will also get cruise control, full power accessories, a telescopic steering wheel, keyless entry and rear heat vents. Additional features are found in the Double Cab and CrewMax versions and include heated outside mirrors, power operated front bucket seats and a 6 disc CD changer. The CrewMax models also feature a reclining rear bench seat, sliding rear window with defroster and rear air conditioning vents. The Limited trim models come with alloy wheels and wider tires and builds upon the previously listed features with power retractable, auto-dimming outside mirrors, bed rails, adjustable tie downs, front and rear park assist, leather upholstery throughout the cab, power adjustable captain's chairs for the driver and front seat passenger, a premium 10 or 12 speaker JBL sound system, Bluetooth and automatic climate control. An Off-Road Package offers fog lights, an enhanced suspension system with Bilstein shocks and all terrain tires. Additional options include 20" wheels, a backup camera and a navigation system.

All models have a limited slip rear differential and can be equipped with two or four wheel drive. The Regular and Double Cab models are equipped with a 4.0 liter V6 that produces 236 horsepower mated to a 5 speed automatic transmission. The CrewMax models come standard with a 4.7 liter V8 and the same 5 speed automatic transmission, but horsepower is boosted to 271. This powertrain is optional for the Regular and Double Cab models. A 5.7 liter V8 that puts out 381 horsepower is also a swift and powerful option for all Tundra's. The 2008 Toyota Tundra is ready, willing and able to tackle just about any task. With so many possible configurations and a potent 5.7 V8 as one of the options, the Tundra is worthy of serious consideration by anyone in the market for a full size half ton pickup.

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2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara

The 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a feature-rich compact SUV with notable off-road capabilities and an affordable price tag. For the 2008 model year, the Grand Vitara receives minor upgrades that include a remote fuel tank door opener, additional sound deadening enhancements to create a quieter cabin and an improved climate control system. A sunroof was also added to the standard equipment list of all but the Base model. Overall, performance is good, its unibody construction is sporty and athletic, but not overly daunting, and the cabin is tastefully appointed. Suzuki's powertrain warranty coverage for the Grand Vitara is 7 years/100,000 miles.

The Grand Vitara, unlike other vehicles in its class, comes standard with rear wheel drive and full time all wheel drive is optional-the vast majority of other small SUV's are front wheel drive or all wheel drive. The 3 available Grand Vitara trims are all powered by a 2.7 liter V6 that produces an adequate 185 horsepower. The standard transmission for the Base model is a 5 speed manual, with a 5 speed automatic optional. A manual gearbox is not available for the upscale trims, which come standard with the 5 speed automatic transmission. The tow rating is a respectable 3,000 pounds; however EPA estimates are below average for the all wheel drive with automatic transmission, coming in at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

The 3 trims available for the Grand Vitara are the Base, XSport and Luxury. The Base model has an impressive list of standard equipment including remote keyless entry, cruise control, automatic climate control, a full array of power accessories, and a CD/MP3 stereo system with 6 disc CD changer, speed sensitive volume control and steering wheel mounted audio controls. The XSport adds alloy wheels, roof rails, a sunroof, and a SmartPass keyless start system. The fully loaded luxury model includes 17 inch alloy wheels and adds heated leather seats and wood grain interior trim with silver accents.

Off-road agility is enhanced with low range gearing and almost 8 inches of ground clearance. Compared to truck based SUVs, the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara delivers a much more refined ride on paved roads, thanks to its reinforced unibody construction. Consumers who seek a solid, amply featured and highly functional small SUV at an affordable price will find what they are looking for in the Grand Vitara.

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2008 Saturn VUE Hybrid

The 2008 Saturn VUE Hybrid, also commonly known as the Saturn VUE Green Line, is a 5 passenger midsize SUV that has been redesigned for the 2008 model year. The newly revamped version is much more attractively designed both inside and out and manages to achieve a commendable balance between safety, comfort and utility in a fuel efficient and environmentally friendly package.

Boasting the highest fuel economy of any midsize SUV on the highway as well as the lowest base model sticker price for its class, this hybrid is both economically and environmentally friendly. The hybrid engine consists of a combination of a gasoline powered 2.4 liter, 4 cylinder engine and an electric motor that together deliver 172 horsepower. The electric motor is recharged via regenerative braking and kicks in when the car is brought to a stop and during deceleration, thus saving fuel. In addition to having the best mpg ratings for a midsize hybrid SUV, the VUE Hybrid Green Line has also beat out some of the most popular hybrid sedans, despite its larger size, heavier weight and increased utility. Gas mileage is rated at 25 MPG in the city and a very impressive midsize SUV 32 miles per gallon on the highway and the base model starts at only just under $25,000.

The exterior has been redesigned for the 2008 model year to reflect European design elements that include a sweeping, more rounded and less angular profile and well positioned and attractive sporty side vents. The interior has also been redesigned and now features a much more refined visual appearance as well as a very comfortable seating and user friendly operational controls. In addition to being roomy enough for 5 adults, there is just a tiny bit less than 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. When the rear seat is folded down, cargo space increases to 56 cubic feet and there is an adjustable cargo net that rides in both upper and lower rails to secure possessions that are being transported. Although there is no third row option like some other midsize SUVs, rear passengers enjoy the luxury of reclining seats and extra comfy seats with a fold down center armrest with storage compartment. Storage is more than ample in the locking glove compartment up front, which is large enough to hold a lap top computer or pocketbook in addition to your owner's manual.

The ride is smooth and the vehicle handles well thanks to a well integrated McPherson strut suspension system and responsive steering. Like many mid size SUV's, although capable of mild off road experiences this SUV performs best on paved roads and during inclement weather. The 2008 Saturn VUE is well equipped, stylish and a very good value for the money, emphasizing the point that if you 'go green' you don't have to go broke too.

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2008 Infiniti QX56 AWD Review

SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Infiniti QX56 AWD
Engine: 5.6-liter V8
Horsepower/Torque: 320 hp @ 5200 rpm/393 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 123.2 in.
Length x Width x Height: 206.9 x 79.5 x 77.8 in.
Tires: 265/60R20
Cargo volume: 61.2 cu. ft.
Economy: 12 mpg city/17 mpg highway/21.9 mpg test
Fuel capacity: 28.0 gal.
Price: $58,810 (includes $815 destination charge and $2,745 in options)

The Bottom Line – The QX56 is a large vehicle with tremendous carrying capacity and very good highway fuel economy. Surprisingly, it’s also a great drive, with comfort, power, decent handling and a great road presence.

Billed as “Luxury on a grand scale,” the Infiniti QX56 fits the description. It is luxurious, with leather seats, all the power accessories you’d ever want, the iconic Infiniti analog clock in the center of the dash, and lots of electronic goodies.

It’s also grand, if you define grand as large. The QX56 fits in nicely with the large Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition. It is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that pumps out 320 horsepower. You might not think that’s a lot of power for a vehicle that weighs more than two tons, but it’s fine, thank you. We had no problems accelerating up to Interstate speeds or maintaining ambient speeds.

What impressed me in the course of this test, that admittedly was conducted primarily on Interstates, was the fuel economy, a healthy 21.9 mpg, higher than the EPA estimates for highway mileage. Granted, we used cruise control whenever possible and kept our speeds within five mph of the speed limit most of the time, but I thought this was outstanding.

The QX56 was a Carolina car. We used it to travel to North Carolina to begin the process of cleaning out my sister’s house prior to resale. While we used her midsize sedan down there, the QX56 was available for loading and hauling some furniture that had to be moved northward, as well as suitcases full of photos and clothes. The QX56 proved to be an excellent stower and carrier, ad well as a comfortable driver.

Besides the fuel economy, we felt the seats were comfortable and offered decent side support. After all, the QX56 is not a sports car in any stretch of the imagination, but we were looking for comfort on an 11-hour drive. The seats were heated as well, which gave comfort to my aching back.

Also handy for a long trip were the two console-mounted cupholders as well as two inserts in the door pockets that held water bottles. My wife and I drink a lot on trips, which also requires many pit/rest stops.

The second row seats offer excellent leg and head room, which is to be expected from a large SUV. There is third-row seating that also offers pretty decent legroom. The third row seat backs fold flat using a cargo area-mounted switch to increase carrying capacity. The second row seat backs also fold flat, creating a van-like cargo area. With the second row seat backs up, cargo volume is 61.2 cubic feet. With them folded, it jumps to a cavernous 97.1 cubic feet. I didn’t measure it to see if a 4X8 sheet of plywood would fit, but I’m fairly certain it would. We carried a couple of dressers.

Even with substantial cargo, the independent self-leveling rear suspension kept the attitude of the QX56 constant. It also gave us a decent ride when the roads developed a couple of bends (we had to find a Starbucks SOME time). Four wheel disc brakes stopped us quickly and confidently.

The QX56 rides on huge 20-inch wheels and tires, which aid in the ride comfort.

Among the comfort and convenience features were a heated steering wheel (it was cold on many mornings), XM Satellite radio with an excellent readout in the navigation system screen, a navigation system that directed us to a location on a dirt road in Virginia on the way down, a Bose premium audio system, steering wheel mounted cruise and audio controls, four 12-volt power outlets, and an Infiniti intelligent “key” that stayed in my pocket all the time.

Key to safety on a long trip is intelligent cruise control that maintains a set distance between the QX56 and the vehicle in front, no matter how slow that vehicle may be traveling. I’m always somewhat confused when ICC clicks in, because the vehicle slows for no reason, apparently, until I realize it’s smarter than I am. It’s worth the $800 for the option.

I would prefer to driver a smaller, sportier sedan or coupe on a long trip. However, the purpose behind this trip precluded a small car and almost forced us to go big SUV or van. The Infiniti QX56 was perfect for the job at hand.

© 2008 Th

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