Get the scoop on all the new pickups, minivans and SUVs for the 2006 model year
By Keith Buglewicz
|
September 9, 2005
Introduction
pickup trucks, minivans and SUVs have become necessities for many American households. Even with the rising cost of fuel, we can’t seem to do without them. Where else are you going to put three kids, a dog and all the luggage? Until automakers come up with a new way of packaging the American family, it seems that these vehicles will be around for a while. Whether the appeal is off-roading in a Hummer H3, hauling the boat with a Dodge Ram Mega Cab or running errands in a Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the new offerings for 2006 are plentiful.The all-new Hummer H3 is just one of many new suvs, pickup trucks, and minivans arriving on the market for 2006.
Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS
The 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS gets a big power spike over the standard model, thanks to a Corvette-derived LS2 6.0-liter V8 engine, which GM says will generate 391 horsepower and about 385 lb.-ft. of torque. GM also estimates that the Nürburgring-tuned TrailBlazer SS will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. It’s possible to get the Trailblazer SS in either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with standard equipment including stability control and a self-leveling suspension. The suspension rides lower than stock, making the TrailBlazer SS look cool and run hot. Also hot are the TrailBlazer SS's 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and four-wheel-disc brakes with 12.8-inch rotors at the front.
Chevrolet HHR
Chevy’s new HHR (Heritage High Roof) is based on the Cobalt platform, looking and functioning very much like the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Base HHR LS and uplevel HHR LT are powered by a 2.2-liter motor, good for 140 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. The HHR LT with the upgrade package includes a larger 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 170 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. Regardless of which model is chosen, a standard five-speed manual transmission delivers power to the front wheels; a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. A handy remote start system is included only with the automatic transmission. The interior seats five, and with folding seats (including the front passenger’s seat), the handy HHR can swallow a kayak with the tailgate closed.
Dodge Ram Mega Cab
Offered throughout the 2006 Dodge Ram lineup, the new Mega Cab is available in 1500-, 2500-, and 3500-series trim. Measuring 15 inches longer than the average full-sized crew cab pickup, the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features split-folding rear seats that open up 145.2 cubic feet of space for added hauling capacity. The standard engine on Mega Cab 1500 and 2500 is a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque. Optional on the 2500 and standard on the 3500 is a 325-horse, 5.9-liter high-output Cummins turbodiesel whipping up an amazing 610 lb.-ft of stump-pulling torque.
Ford Explorer
Horsepower has never been an Explorer strong point, but with 292 ponies galloping out of the 2006 model’s optional 4.6-liter V8 engine, it finally delivers the kind of oomph that a truck weighing well over two tons requires. Featuring variable cam timing and 24-valve cylinder heads, this is the same V8 found under the hood of the Mustang GT. In the 2006 Explorer, the V8 makes 300 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm, and drives either the rear or all four wheels through a new six-speed automatic transmission. Ford says that fuel economy is improved by 10 percent despite the 53-horsepower gain, but we averaged a middling 13.2 mpg during our drive on mountainous two-lane highways, small-town streets, and forest trails. If fuel economy is a concern, stick with the standard 4.0-liter V6, carried over from last year but modified for smoother operation and lower emissions. Ford says the V6 emits 74-percent fewer smog-forming pollutants than last year, allowing the engine to meet stringent Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV-II) standards, making it more environmentally responsible than the Honda Accord Hybrid. The V6 can’t tow and haul as much as the V8 though, with just 210 horsepower generated at 5,100 rpm and 254 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 3,700 rpm. Ford mates a five-speed automatic to the Explorer’s V6.
F-150 Harley-Davidson
Painted monotone black with huge 22-inch wheels, the 2006 F-150 Harley-Davidson is based upon the SuperCab model and is offered with two-wheel or all-wheel drive. Decked out in extra chrome trim and a red-and-blue stripe running down the side, the F-150 H-D is easy to identify. The chrome billet grille and smoked headlamps immediately set this sport truck apart from the crowd, while a low front air dam and side tubes visually lower the truck for a custom appearance. At the rear, darkened tail lamp lenses, a slash-cut chrome exhaust outlet, and a black bumper continue the theme. Power is supplied by a Triton 5.4-liter V8 engine generating 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm, spinning the wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. A special exhaust system produces a throatier rumble for extra attitude, while the Torque on Demand AWD system monitors wheel speed and throttle position, transferring power from the rear wheels to the front wheels as necessary. Able to tow and haul like a normal truck, the 2006 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,570 pounds combined with a maximum tow rating of 8,800 pounds.
Hummer H1 Alpha
Highlighted improvements for the 2006 Hummer H1 to create the Alpha designation include more power from a new engine and improved fuel economy. A 6.6-liter, turbodiesel V8 producing 300 horsepower and 520 lb.-ft. of torque, and that also improves gas mileage, powers the H1 Alpha. The 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha is offered in both Open Top and Wagon versions.
Hummer H3
The 2006 Hummer H3 is the little guy of the brand but with a curb weight over two tons, it’s no small truck. Powered by a 220-horsepower, 3.5-liter, five-cylinder engine, the Hummer H3 is by no means fast. Fuel economy was a priority with the H3 so it will appeal to those that want the ruggedness of a Hummer but don’t want to pay the high price of feeding the bigger, high-powered H1 Alpha or H2. Assisting with the Hummer H3’s off-road ability are standard 32-inch all-terrain tires with the option of mounting 33-inch rubber all around.
Isuzu i-Series
Isuzu is offering two models of its new i-Series truck. The i-280 comes as a 2WD extended cab and is powered by an inline four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. The i-350 is a 4WD crew cab offering a 3.5-liter, 220-horsepower inline five-cylinder motor mated to an automatic transmission. The 2006 Isuzu i-Series is essentially a clone of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Yukon.
Jeep Commander
The newest offering from Jeep is the only trail-rated, seven-passenger vehicle in the lineup. Whether on or off road, the versatility of a 2006 Jeep Commander shines through. Three engine options are available. First is the 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower followed by a 4.7-liter V8 boasting 235 horsepower. For those that desire more power, Jeep offers a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that produces 330 horsepower. All three powerplants are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Grand Cherokee SRT-8
Billed as the quickest, most powerful Jeep ever, the 2006 Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is more capable on the road than it is off road. With a 6.1-liter V8 producing 415 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, this is one Jeep that should be taken seriously. The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 rolls on twenty-inch rims and Goodyear performance tires, running an estimated 0-60 acceleration time of under five seconds.
Kia Sedona
With a new platform that gives the completely redesigned 2006 Kia Sedona an interior volume measurement on par with class leaders like the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna, this minivan fires on all six of its brand-new aluminum cylinders. A 3.8-liter V6 makes more than 240 horsepower while overall Sedona curb weight decreases, resulting in better acceleration than before and a lighter, more lively feel through the steering wheel. A five-speed automatic transmission drives the power to the front wheels, while a four-wheel-independent suspension soaks up road anomalies. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard on the 2006 Kia Sedona.
Range Rover Sport
The misnamed 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is built off the LR3 platform, incorporating style, comfort and performance like no Land Rover before it. Engine offerings vary from a naturally-aspirated, 4.4-liter V8 producing 295 horsepower to a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 making 385 horsepower.
LR Range Rover
The big news for the 2006 Land Rover Range Rover is the new family of engines and transmissions. Three offerings are available. The most powerful is the 4.2-liter, 396-horsepower, supercharged V8 closely followed by the naturally aspirated, 4.4-liter, 306-horsepower V8. Each powerplant is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission.
Lexus RX 400h
With the popularity of hybrid cars in these days of high fuel costs, the Lexus 400h might seem a natural choice. But after paying the premium for the technology, and for padding the dealer’s profit, it is unlikely your gonna make up the difference in savings at the pump, so buy for its lower emissions. The Lexus RX400h offers the versatility of an SUV combined with the fuel economy of a V6-powered sedan.
Lincoln Mark LT
For 2006, Lincoln returns to the truck arena with the introduction of the Mark LT. Lincoln claims the Mark LT offers a level of luxury never before available in a truck, and with a starting price of $39,995 it better have some luxury. The 2006 Lincoln Mark LT is offered with either 2WD or 4WD, and a 300-horsepower, 5.4-liter V8 under the hood.
Mazda 5
Looking like a full-size minivan that shrank in the sun after a trip to the car wash, the 2006 Mazda 5 is a unique six-passenger vehicle seeking to establish a foothold in a niche market. Based on the Mazda 3 platform, the Mazda 5 has all of the roominess of a minivan blended with the size and economy of the Mazda 3. A 157-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine drives the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual or four-speed automatic with manual shift capability.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class
All new for 2006, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class takes a giant step forward with a flattering new design and overall improvements. Two models are available: The ML350, powered by a 268-horsepower V6, and the more powerful ML500 equipped with a 302-horsepower V8. Both models run power to all four wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes continues the combination of luxury, utility and practicality in the 2006 M-Class.
Mercedes-Benz R-Class
Mercedes-Benz says that it is introducing a new class of vehicle in the 2006 R-Class, but the first sport-tourer was the Chrysler Pacifica. Nevertheless, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is available as the R350, which comes with a 268-horsepower V6, and the R500, powered by a 302-horsepower V8. Both models come with a seven-speed transmission. The R-Class is five inches longer than a typical SUV, and is a clever combination of a sport-ute and a minivan. Inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the panoramic glass panel that runs from the windshield to the tailgate. The glass panels give the interior a spacious, open feeling. Outside the new R-Class design carries the subtle character of the CLS sedan.
Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Due to consumer interest and demand, the production of the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid was pushed up a year to meet the demand for hybrid vehicles. The Mariner Hybrid combines electric motors and a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine to achieve an estimated fuel economy rating of 33 city and 29 highway. “Full” hybrid vehicles like the Mariner get better city fuel economy because they can run solely on the battery pack in low-load conditions, such as bumper-to-bumper traffic. In the case of the Mariner, the electric motors can power the vehicle to 25 mph, the threshold at which the gas engine is engaged. The 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid is basically a Ford Escape Hybrid with dressier trim.
Mercury Mountaineer
The big news for the 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is the new engine. Mercury has developed a new three-valve, 4.6-liter V8 that is more powerful yet 22-percent more efficient than the V8 used in last year’s model. The new V8 dishes out 292 horsepower vs. the old V8’s 239 horsepower. A new six-speed transmission handles the V8’s output, while the standard, and cleaner-burning, V6 is mated to last year’s capable five-speed transmission.
Mitsubishi Raider
Mitsubishi is making waves – okay ripples – with the introduction of the new 2006 Raider pickup. Offered with either a 3.7-liter V6 or a 4.7-liter V8, Mitsubishi is making a valiant attempt at getting the attention of truck buyers. Based on the Dodge Dakota, the 2006 Mitsubishi Raider is offered as either an extended cab or a double cab with the buyer’s choice of two- or four-wheel drive.
Pontiac Torrent
The 2006 Pontiac Torrent is a clone of the Chevrolet Equinox, available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, powered by a 185-horsepower V6 engine. Standard features include power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows, air conditioning, a rear liftgate with defogger and washer/wiper, CD stereo with six speakers, fog lamps, 16-inch aluminum wheels, four-channel ABS (standard on AWD and available on FWD), and dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags. Optional features for the Torrent include leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel, heated driver and front passenger seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, 17-inch aluminum wheels, CD/MP3 stereo with six-disc CD changer and subwoofer, steering-wheel radio controls, power sunroof, multi-tier rear cargo system, OnStar telematics, and XM Satellite Radio. Roof-rail side curtain airbags and traction control also are available.
Subaru B9 Tribeca
Although a little late to the party, Subaru has entered the SUV market with the introduction of the new 2006 B9 Tribeca. Available with five- or seven-passenger capability, the well-equipped B9 Tribeca seems to have found a place in a crowded segment. The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca comes standard with full-time all-wheel-drive and is powered by a 250-horsepower flat six linked to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Subaru Forester
The 2006 Subaru Forester gets minor upgrades all-around. The exterior receives front and rear fascia upgrades and the two available engines get more power. The standard 2.5-liter motor offers up 173 horsepower for 2006, and the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine offered only in the XT model increases output to 230 horsepower.
Suzuki Grand Vitara
Suzuki’s tough little boulder-basher is redesigned for 2006, slightly bigger than before and equipped with a more powerful 2.7-liter V6 engine under the hood. With the larger XL-7 scheduled to move to the GM platform that serves as the foundation for the Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent and Saturn Vue, the Grand Vitara remains a tough, scrappy four-wheel-drive vehicle that can actually go off-roading.
Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrows technology from the Prius, using a variation of that successful model’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. For this newest application of Hybrid Synergy Drive, the battery is larger and the electric motor spins twice as fast, developing twice the power. Combined with a 230-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is good for a net total of 268 horsepower. Toyota boasts that the new Highlander Hybrid delivers the performance of a V8, outrunning the gasoline V6 version of the standard Highlander in some performance tests. But will it save you money at the pump? Given the added cost, plus dealer mark-up, that’s unlikely. But you sure can feel good about the Highlander Hybrid’s SULEV emissions rating.
The 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SS gets a big power spike over the standard model, thanks to a Corvette-derived LS2 6.0-liter V8 engine, which GM says will generate 391 horsepower and about 385 lb.-ft. of torque. GM also estimates that the Nürburgring-tuned TrailBlazer SS will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. It’s possible to get the Trailblazer SS in either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with standard equipment including stability control and a self-leveling suspension. The suspension rides lower than stock, making the TrailBlazer SS look cool and run hot. Also hot are the TrailBlazer SS's 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and four-wheel-disc brakes with 12.8-inch rotors at the front.
Chevrolet HHR
Chevy’s new HHR (Heritage High Roof) is based on the Cobalt platform, looking and functioning very much like the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Base HHR LS and uplevel HHR LT are powered by a 2.2-liter motor, good for 140 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. The HHR LT with the upgrade package includes a larger 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that generates 170 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. Regardless of which model is chosen, a standard five-speed manual transmission delivers power to the front wheels; a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. A handy remote start system is included only with the automatic transmission. The interior seats five, and with folding seats (including the front passenger’s seat), the handy HHR can swallow a kayak with the tailgate closed.
Dodge Ram Mega Cab
Offered throughout the 2006 Dodge Ram lineup, the new Mega Cab is available in 1500-, 2500-, and 3500-series trim. Measuring 15 inches longer than the average full-sized crew cab pickup, the 2006 Dodge Ram Mega Cab features split-folding rear seats that open up 145.2 cubic feet of space for added hauling capacity. The standard engine on Mega Cab 1500 and 2500 is a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft of torque. Optional on the 2500 and standard on the 3500 is a 325-horse, 5.9-liter high-output Cummins turbodiesel whipping up an amazing 610 lb.-ft of stump-pulling torque.
Ford Explorer
Horsepower has never been an Explorer strong point, but with 292 ponies galloping out of the 2006 model’s optional 4.6-liter V8 engine, it finally delivers the kind of oomph that a truck weighing well over two tons requires. Featuring variable cam timing and 24-valve cylinder heads, this is the same V8 found under the hood of the Mustang GT. In the 2006 Explorer, the V8 makes 300 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm, and drives either the rear or all four wheels through a new six-speed automatic transmission. Ford says that fuel economy is improved by 10 percent despite the 53-horsepower gain, but we averaged a middling 13.2 mpg during our drive on mountainous two-lane highways, small-town streets, and forest trails. If fuel economy is a concern, stick with the standard 4.0-liter V6, carried over from last year but modified for smoother operation and lower emissions. Ford says the V6 emits 74-percent fewer smog-forming pollutants than last year, allowing the engine to meet stringent Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV-II) standards, making it more environmentally responsible than the Honda Accord Hybrid. The V6 can’t tow and haul as much as the V8 though, with just 210 horsepower generated at 5,100 rpm and 254 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 3,700 rpm. Ford mates a five-speed automatic to the Explorer’s V6.
F-150 Harley-Davidson
Painted monotone black with huge 22-inch wheels, the 2006 F-150 Harley-Davidson is based upon the SuperCab model and is offered with two-wheel or all-wheel drive. Decked out in extra chrome trim and a red-and-blue stripe running down the side, the F-150 H-D is easy to identify. The chrome billet grille and smoked headlamps immediately set this sport truck apart from the crowd, while a low front air dam and side tubes visually lower the truck for a custom appearance. At the rear, darkened tail lamp lenses, a slash-cut chrome exhaust outlet, and a black bumper continue the theme. Power is supplied by a Triton 5.4-liter V8 engine generating 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm, spinning the wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. A special exhaust system produces a throatier rumble for extra attitude, while the Torque on Demand AWD system monitors wheel speed and throttle position, transferring power from the rear wheels to the front wheels as necessary. Able to tow and haul like a normal truck, the 2006 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson offers a maximum payload capacity of 1,570 pounds combined with a maximum tow rating of 8,800 pounds.
Hummer H1 Alpha
Highlighted improvements for the 2006 Hummer H1 to create the Alpha designation include more power from a new engine and improved fuel economy. A 6.6-liter, turbodiesel V8 producing 300 horsepower and 520 lb.-ft. of torque, and that also improves gas mileage, powers the H1 Alpha. The 2006 Hummer H1 Alpha is offered in both Open Top and Wagon versions.
Hummer H3
The 2006 Hummer H3 is the little guy of the brand but with a curb weight over two tons, it’s no small truck. Powered by a 220-horsepower, 3.5-liter, five-cylinder engine, the Hummer H3 is by no means fast. Fuel economy was a priority with the H3 so it will appeal to those that want the ruggedness of a Hummer but don’t want to pay the high price of feeding the bigger, high-powered H1 Alpha or H2. Assisting with the Hummer H3’s off-road ability are standard 32-inch all-terrain tires with the option of mounting 33-inch rubber all around.
Isuzu i-Series
Isuzu is offering two models of its new i-Series truck. The i-280 comes as a 2WD extended cab and is powered by an inline four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. The i-350 is a 4WD crew cab offering a 3.5-liter, 220-horsepower inline five-cylinder motor mated to an automatic transmission. The 2006 Isuzu i-Series is essentially a clone of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Yukon.
Jeep Commander
The newest offering from Jeep is the only trail-rated, seven-passenger vehicle in the lineup. Whether on or off road, the versatility of a 2006 Jeep Commander shines through. Three engine options are available. First is the 3.7-liter V6 with 210 horsepower followed by a 4.7-liter V8 boasting 235 horsepower. For those that desire more power, Jeep offers a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that produces 330 horsepower. All three powerplants are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Grand Cherokee SRT-8
Billed as the quickest, most powerful Jeep ever, the 2006 Grand Cherokee SRT-8 is more capable on the road than it is off road. With a 6.1-liter V8 producing 415 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, this is one Jeep that should be taken seriously. The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 rolls on twenty-inch rims and Goodyear performance tires, running an estimated 0-60 acceleration time of under five seconds.
Kia Sedona
With a new platform that gives the completely redesigned 2006 Kia Sedona an interior volume measurement on par with class leaders like the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna, this minivan fires on all six of its brand-new aluminum cylinders. A 3.8-liter V6 makes more than 240 horsepower while overall Sedona curb weight decreases, resulting in better acceleration than before and a lighter, more lively feel through the steering wheel. A five-speed automatic transmission drives the power to the front wheels, while a four-wheel-independent suspension soaks up road anomalies. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are standard on the 2006 Kia Sedona.
Range Rover Sport
The misnamed 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is built off the LR3 platform, incorporating style, comfort and performance like no Land Rover before it. Engine offerings vary from a naturally-aspirated, 4.4-liter V8 producing 295 horsepower to a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 making 385 horsepower.
LR Range Rover
The big news for the 2006 Land Rover Range Rover is the new family of engines and transmissions. Three offerings are available. The most powerful is the 4.2-liter, 396-horsepower, supercharged V8 closely followed by the naturally aspirated, 4.4-liter, 306-horsepower V8. Each powerplant is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission.
Lexus RX 400h
With the popularity of hybrid cars in these days of high fuel costs, the Lexus 400h might seem a natural choice. But after paying the premium for the technology, and for padding the dealer’s profit, it is unlikely your gonna make up the difference in savings at the pump, so buy for its lower emissions. The Lexus RX400h offers the versatility of an SUV combined with the fuel economy of a V6-powered sedan.
Lincoln Mark LT
For 2006, Lincoln returns to the truck arena with the introduction of the Mark LT. Lincoln claims the Mark LT offers a level of luxury never before available in a truck, and with a starting price of $39,995 it better have some luxury. The 2006 Lincoln Mark LT is offered with either 2WD or 4WD, and a 300-horsepower, 5.4-liter V8 under the hood.
Mazda 5
Looking like a full-size minivan that shrank in the sun after a trip to the car wash, the 2006 Mazda 5 is a unique six-passenger vehicle seeking to establish a foothold in a niche market. Based on the Mazda 3 platform, the Mazda 5 has all of the roominess of a minivan blended with the size and economy of the Mazda 3. A 157-horsepower, 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine drives the front wheels through a standard five-speed manual or four-speed automatic with manual shift capability.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class
All new for 2006, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class takes a giant step forward with a flattering new design and overall improvements. Two models are available: The ML350, powered by a 268-horsepower V6, and the more powerful ML500 equipped with a 302-horsepower V8. Both models run power to all four wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes continues the combination of luxury, utility and practicality in the 2006 M-Class.
Mercedes-Benz R-Class
Mercedes-Benz says that it is introducing a new class of vehicle in the 2006 R-Class, but the first sport-tourer was the Chrysler Pacifica. Nevertheless, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class is available as the R350, which comes with a 268-horsepower V6, and the R500, powered by a 302-horsepower V8. Both models come with a seven-speed transmission. The R-Class is five inches longer than a typical SUV, and is a clever combination of a sport-ute and a minivan. Inside, the first thing you’ll notice is the panoramic glass panel that runs from the windshield to the tailgate. The glass panels give the interior a spacious, open feeling. Outside the new R-Class design carries the subtle character of the CLS sedan.
Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Due to consumer interest and demand, the production of the 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid was pushed up a year to meet the demand for hybrid vehicles. The Mariner Hybrid combines electric motors and a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine to achieve an estimated fuel economy rating of 33 city and 29 highway. “Full” hybrid vehicles like the Mariner get better city fuel economy because they can run solely on the battery pack in low-load conditions, such as bumper-to-bumper traffic. In the case of the Mariner, the electric motors can power the vehicle to 25 mph, the threshold at which the gas engine is engaged. The 2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid is basically a Ford Escape Hybrid with dressier trim.
Mercury Mountaineer
The big news for the 2006 Mercury Mountaineer is the new engine. Mercury has developed a new three-valve, 4.6-liter V8 that is more powerful yet 22-percent more efficient than the V8 used in last year’s model. The new V8 dishes out 292 horsepower vs. the old V8’s 239 horsepower. A new six-speed transmission handles the V8’s output, while the standard, and cleaner-burning, V6 is mated to last year’s capable five-speed transmission.
Mitsubishi Raider
Mitsubishi is making waves – okay ripples – with the introduction of the new 2006 Raider pickup. Offered with either a 3.7-liter V6 or a 4.7-liter V8, Mitsubishi is making a valiant attempt at getting the attention of truck buyers. Based on the Dodge Dakota, the 2006 Mitsubishi Raider is offered as either an extended cab or a double cab with the buyer’s choice of two- or four-wheel drive.
Pontiac Torrent
The 2006 Pontiac Torrent is a clone of the Chevrolet Equinox, available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, powered by a 185-horsepower V6 engine. Standard features include power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows, air conditioning, a rear liftgate with defogger and washer/wiper, CD stereo with six speakers, fog lamps, 16-inch aluminum wheels, four-channel ABS (standard on AWD and available on FWD), and dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags. Optional features for the Torrent include leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel, heated driver and front passenger seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, 17-inch aluminum wheels, CD/MP3 stereo with six-disc CD changer and subwoofer, steering-wheel radio controls, power sunroof, multi-tier rear cargo system, OnStar telematics, and XM Satellite Radio. Roof-rail side curtain airbags and traction control also are available.
Subaru B9 Tribeca
Although a little late to the party, Subaru has entered the SUV market with the introduction of the new 2006 B9 Tribeca. Available with five- or seven-passenger capability, the well-equipped B9 Tribeca seems to have found a place in a crowded segment. The 2006 Subaru B9 Tribeca comes standard with full-time all-wheel-drive and is powered by a 250-horsepower flat six linked to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Subaru Forester
The 2006 Subaru Forester gets minor upgrades all-around. The exterior receives front and rear fascia upgrades and the two available engines get more power. The standard 2.5-liter motor offers up 173 horsepower for 2006, and the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine offered only in the XT model increases output to 230 horsepower.
Suzuki Grand Vitara
Suzuki’s tough little boulder-basher is redesigned for 2006, slightly bigger than before and equipped with a more powerful 2.7-liter V6 engine under the hood. With the larger XL-7 scheduled to move to the GM platform that serves as the foundation for the Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent and Saturn Vue, the Grand Vitara remains a tough, scrappy four-wheel-drive vehicle that can actually go off-roading.
Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrows technology from the Prius, using a variation of that successful model’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. For this newest application of Hybrid Synergy Drive, the battery is larger and the electric motor spins twice as fast, developing twice the power. Combined with a 230-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is good for a net total of 268 horsepower. Toyota boasts that the new Highlander Hybrid delivers the performance of a V8, outrunning the gasoline V6 version of the standard Highlander in some performance tests. But will it save you money at the pump? Given the added cost, plus dealer mark-up, that’s unlikely. But you sure can feel good about the Highlander Hybrid’s SULEV emissions rating.
Photos courtesy of the manufacturers and Erik Hanson