More choice, style and power highlight incoming models
By Ron Perry
|
September 30, 2005
Introduction
Whether needing a sedan for transporting the kids or a wagon for getting the surfboard to the shore, four-doors, hatchbacks and station wagons become a necessity at some point in most people’s lives. For 2006, automakers are offering everything from the Dodge Charger SRT-8 that can haul a quintet around faster than anyone needs to travel, to the Kia Rio5 which offers sporty styling and ample storage at a reasonable price, to the Buick Lucerne – a car most likely to be found parked outside the bingo club on Wednesday night. Whatever your needs may be, there are plenty of new choices for 2006.The exciting news for hot rod aficionados has to be the introduction of the resurrected Charger nameplate, and in the SRT-8 model the installation of a 425-horsepower Hemi V8 motor.
Buick Lucerne
Buick buyers can once again choose a V8-powered sedan with the introduction of the 2006 Lucerne. Available as an option on the CXL and as standard on the CXS, the Lucerne’s 4.6-liter V8 produces 275 horsepower. Base CXL versions get a tried-and-true 3.8-liter V6 pumping 197 horsepower. Power is run through a four-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels and the Lucerne is available in five- or six-passenger configurations.
Chevrolet Impala
The Chevrolet Impala has always been a top seller and is currently the third best selling car in the U.S. With an almost complete redesign for 2006, the Impala should continue to find droves of buyers – and not all of them rental car agencies. Sold in LS, LT, LTZ, and SS trim levels, the 2006 Chevy Impala starts with a 3.5-liter V6 making 211 horsepower and 220 lb.-ft. of torque. Optional on LT and standard on LTZ is a 3.9-liter V6 producing 240 horsepower and 242 lb.-ft. of torque. The new 5.3-liter V8 is reserved for the SS model, making just over 300 horsepower and featuring Displacement on Demand technology to save fuel during highway cruising. All engines are connected to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Chevrolet Impala SS
Opting for the 2006 Chevrolet Impala SS over the LTZ gets you more horsepower, as in 303 from the 5.3-liter V8 vs. the 240 horsepower from the LTZ’s 3.9-liter V6. However, there is a downside. Choosing the Impala SS means losing many of the LTZ’s nicer standard features. For instance, the bucket seats in the SS model are clad in cloth instead of leather, and you lose the LTZ’s seat heaters and the passenger’s seat power adjustment. Pay more, get less? Well, there is that big V8, as well as other hardware upgrades. And the SS can be outfitted like the LTZ if you’re willing to pony up the cash.
Chevrolet Malibu SS
Yes, Chevrolet is applying the SS designation to the Malibu for 2006. Upgrading to this more powerful model gets you a 3.9-liter V6 turning out 240 horsepower and 241 lb.-ft. of torque, as well as a four-speed automatic with manual shift capability. Also included in the upgrade are new front and rear fascias including a larger blacked-out grille, a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, a spoiler, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.
Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS
Opting for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS over the Malibu SS gets you hatchback styling and additional cargo space. The same SS upgrades made to the Malibu sedan apply here. A 3.9-liter V6 with 240 horsepower sits under the hood, driving the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx SS also includes a sport-tuned suspension, different front and rear fascias, a new grille, larger wheels, and of course, chrome-tipped exhaust outlets. Buyers actually get quite a few upgrades for little extra money.
Dodge Charger
Resurrecting a nameplate like “Charger” is a risky undertaking. Dodge took the challenge for 2006 and right out of the gate sparked controversy for introducing the new Charger as a sedan. Like it or not, the 2006 Dodge Charger has four doors and even comes with a V6 engine in the low-end models. The 3.5-liter V6 produces 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque – nothing ground breaking there. Thankfully Dodge does offer a V8 in the RT model. The 5.7-liter Hemi bumps power up to 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (slightly more if you choose the Road & Track package or the limited-production Daytona R/T model), worthy stats in line with the Charger’s legend. Hate to disappoint here, but only an automatic transmission is offered. But, with likable styling the Charger will probably sell well. Those that hark back to the days of astounding horsepower will need to step up to the Charger SRT-8.
Dodge Charger SRT-8
Okay, it does have four doors but Dodge has taken steps to bring the new Charger closer to the legend it is named after with the inclusion of the SRT-8 upgrade. Yes, once again the Dodge Charger can pound the pavement like its 1960s predecessors, thanks to the SRT-8 performance upgrade. With 425 tire- smoking horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2006 Dodge Charger SRT-8 is a brawler, feeding all of that power to the street through a five-speed automatic (sorry, no manual) transmission with manual control. But, unlike Chargers of old, this new SRT-8 sedan can handle curves as well as straights. Adhered to the asphalt by 255/45R20 tires in the rear and 245/45R20 rubber in the front – yes, you read that size correctly – the Charger SRT-8 hugs the road. Bringing everything to a halt are four-piston vented Brembo brakes, and included as standard equipment are three modern day technologies: ABS, traction control, and stability control.
Dodge Magnum SRT-8
If the Dodge Charger whets your appetite for performance but you need more utility than a trunk can provide, try the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 on for size. Making good use of the corporate 6.1-liter Hemi engine, the Magnum SRT-8 blends the extra cargo area of a station wagon with blistering performance in a very stylish package. With 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the Magnum gets down the road using the same five-speed automatic transmission as the Charger SRT-8, as well as the sport-tuned suspension, four-piston vented Brembo brakes, and the twenty-inch wheels wearing performance rubber.
Ford Fusion
New for 2006, the Ford Fusion enters the mid-size sedan segment with modern styling cues taken from the stylish Ford 427 concept car. The Fusion is offered with either a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder motor producing 160 horsepower or a 221-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Choose the four cylinder and you get the option of a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. Choosing the V6 limits you to a six-speed automatic. Flip-down 60/40 split rear seats will accommodate larger items that won’t fit into the already spacious 15.8 cubic foot trunk space. Based on the Mazda 6 platform, the new Ford Fusion is fun to drive, fun to look at, and a terrific domestic sedan.
Honda Civic
Highly anticipated by both the media and public alike, the new 2006 Honda Civic is completely redesigned and might become the new benchmark of the compact class. Powered by a four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 128 lb.-ft. of torque, the new 2006 Civic provides a choice between a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. And, given today’s high gas prices, fuel economy ratings with the automatic are an impressive 30-mpg city and 40-mpg highway. With new styling, a larger and more comfortable interior, and Honda’s legendary reputation for building affordable and reliable cars, there is no reason the new 2006 Civic won’t be a big success.
Hyundai Accent
With more competition than ever, the Hyundai Accent was in need of drastic change to remain a viable contender. None too soon, Hyundai introduces a larger, more refined 2006 Accent. The Accent comes in only one body style, the GLS sedan, equipped with the most powerful engine in its class (not including the new Kia Rio, with which it shares basic underpinnings). A new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 110 horsepower and 107 lb.-ft. of torque, has been placed under the hood. The 2006 Hyundai Accent comes with a standard five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission and is well equipped with features for the price.
Hyundai Azera
Replacing the XG350 as Hyundai’s new flagship vehicle, the sleek, new 2006 Azera is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 producing 265 horsepower and 257 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission delivers the power to the wheels. Electronic stability and traction control come as standard equipment on the new 2006 Hyundai Azera, along with six standard airbags and a host of luxury features.
Hyundai Sonata
Aiming at the heart of the midsize market, the redesigned and incredibly competent 2006 Hyundai Sonata is available in three trim levels. The base GL model offers a 162-horsepower, four-cylinder motor mated to either a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. Step up to the GLS and choose from the same four-cylinder mated to a four-speed automatic or a 235-horsepower six-cylinder mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. At the top of the lineup is the LX, equipped with the V6/automatic combo and an array of standard features. Exclusive to the LX are exterior chrome trim, automatic climate control with Hyundai’s air quality system, and leather seating with matching door inserts and sliding armrests. All Sonatas are equipped with front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as stability control, and are covered by an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Kia Rio
Re-designed for 2006, the Kia Rio sedan is built on a new platform giving the new car a longer wheelbase and increased width for a roomier cabin. Power is also up with the use of the new 1.6-liter engine producing 110 horsepower and 107 lb.-ft. of torque. Either a five-speed manual or an optional automatic can be mated to the new engine. But safety is the big news for the 2006 Kia Rio, which comes standard with six airbags and is the only car in its class to offer full-length side curtain airbags.
Kia Rio5
Like the Rio sedan but want a sportier look and more cargo room? No problem. Kia has just the car for you in the Kia Rio5 hatchback. Powered by the same 110-horsepower engine and offering the same safety features as the Rio sedan, the 2006 Kia Rio5 is a perfect fit. Thanks to a sportier look and better practicality for those on the go, the Rio5 is a more compelling choice than the sedan.
MazdaSpeed 6
For those in the market for a performance sedan, Mazda introduces the 2006 MazdaSpeed 6. This massaged Mazda 6 comes with an array of performance add-ons inside and out. The 2006 MazdaSpeed 6 packs a turbocharged, 274-horsepower engine under its hood for starters. The 2.3-liter motor also makes 280 lb.-ft. of torque, and the turbo delivers up to 15.6 psi of boost. All of the power is mated to an all-new, high-performance, six-speed manual transmission specifically geared for the MazdaSpeed 6. Mazda’s Active Torque-split AWD system aids acceleration and handling. Interior upgrades include stainless steel scuff plates, front sport seats, a Bose six-disc audio system with CD changer, and alloy pedals. Choose the upgraded Touring model and get black leather-trimmed upholstery with eight-way adjustable front seats, heated door mirrors, keyless entry, and a power moonroof.
Mercury Milan
Mercury is targeting a much younger buyer these days. The new 2006 Mercury Milan aims to bring buyers between 26 and 39 into showrooms. The Milan is powered by your choice between two engines. The smaller of the two is a 2.3-liter inline four cylinder that produces 160 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. This motor is equipped with a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. Choosing the larger 3.0-liter V6 engine gets you 210 horsepower, 200 lb.-ft. of torque, and a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Only time will tell if Mercury’s plan to entice younger buyers with the Milan will work, but since it’s a rebadged version of the excellent Ford Fusion, chances are good.
Mitsubishi Evolution IX
When it comes to affordable, speedy sedans, the 2006 Mitsubishi Evolution IX has to be near the top of the shopping list. With 286 horsepower from the turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder flowing to all four wheels all the time, few other sedans can match its performance and handling. In addition to power and grip, the Evolution IX comes with a five-speed manual close-ratio transmission and rides on a multi-link wishbone suspension front and rear. Downsides include a rough ride and styling that is appropriate only for those under 30 years of age.
Pontiac G6 GTP
Pontiac is stepping up the performance of the G6 lineup with the addition of the GTP performance model. Powering the GTP is a 3.9-liter V6 producing 240 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque, driving the front wheels through a four-speed automatic with manual shift capability. Buyers can choose between coupe, convertible, or sedan body styles – but only the coupe offers an optional six-speed manual transmission. You can spot a G6 GTP by its upsized 18-inch wheels.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The new 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has undergone a complete redesign and is aimed directly at buyers wanting a comfortable four-door compact combined with European ride and handling. A 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque, producing plenty of punch throughout the rev range. Standard on the Jetta GLI is a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) manual transmission. DSG is a true manual but without a clutch, so it operates like an automatic while giving the driver the ability to shift via paddles mounted on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen Passat Sedan
For 2006, Volkswagen introduces an all-new Passat, and it will be among the most powerful front-drive cars offered by the German automaker. Two engine choices are offered. Available now is the standard turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. The most powerful motor, set for release later in the year, is the 3.6-liter six-cylinder boasting 280 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. The standard transmission is a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift capability.
Volkswagen Passat Wagon
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat station wagon is equipped with the same 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 found in the Passat sedan. As before, the Passat wagon is available with an all-wheel-drive system called 4Motion. With the all-new styling, larger proportions, more cargo space, and Volkswagen’s beautifully rendered cabins, the 2006 Passat wagon is sure to please.
Buick buyers can once again choose a V8-powered sedan with the introduction of the 2006 Lucerne. Available as an option on the CXL and as standard on the CXS, the Lucerne’s 4.6-liter V8 produces 275 horsepower. Base CXL versions get a tried-and-true 3.8-liter V6 pumping 197 horsepower. Power is run through a four-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels and the Lucerne is available in five- or six-passenger configurations.
Chevrolet Impala
The Chevrolet Impala has always been a top seller and is currently the third best selling car in the U.S. With an almost complete redesign for 2006, the Impala should continue to find droves of buyers – and not all of them rental car agencies. Sold in LS, LT, LTZ, and SS trim levels, the 2006 Chevy Impala starts with a 3.5-liter V6 making 211 horsepower and 220 lb.-ft. of torque. Optional on LT and standard on LTZ is a 3.9-liter V6 producing 240 horsepower and 242 lb.-ft. of torque. The new 5.3-liter V8 is reserved for the SS model, making just over 300 horsepower and featuring Displacement on Demand technology to save fuel during highway cruising. All engines are connected to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Chevrolet Impala SS
Opting for the 2006 Chevrolet Impala SS over the LTZ gets you more horsepower, as in 303 from the 5.3-liter V8 vs. the 240 horsepower from the LTZ’s 3.9-liter V6. However, there is a downside. Choosing the Impala SS means losing many of the LTZ’s nicer standard features. For instance, the bucket seats in the SS model are clad in cloth instead of leather, and you lose the LTZ’s seat heaters and the passenger’s seat power adjustment. Pay more, get less? Well, there is that big V8, as well as other hardware upgrades. And the SS can be outfitted like the LTZ if you’re willing to pony up the cash.
Chevrolet Malibu SS
Yes, Chevrolet is applying the SS designation to the Malibu for 2006. Upgrading to this more powerful model gets you a 3.9-liter V6 turning out 240 horsepower and 241 lb.-ft. of torque, as well as a four-speed automatic with manual shift capability. Also included in the upgrade are new front and rear fascias including a larger blacked-out grille, a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, a spoiler, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.
Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS
Opting for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx SS over the Malibu SS gets you hatchback styling and additional cargo space. The same SS upgrades made to the Malibu sedan apply here. A 3.9-liter V6 with 240 horsepower sits under the hood, driving the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx SS also includes a sport-tuned suspension, different front and rear fascias, a new grille, larger wheels, and of course, chrome-tipped exhaust outlets. Buyers actually get quite a few upgrades for little extra money.
Dodge Charger
Resurrecting a nameplate like “Charger” is a risky undertaking. Dodge took the challenge for 2006 and right out of the gate sparked controversy for introducing the new Charger as a sedan. Like it or not, the 2006 Dodge Charger has four doors and even comes with a V6 engine in the low-end models. The 3.5-liter V6 produces 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque – nothing ground breaking there. Thankfully Dodge does offer a V8 in the RT model. The 5.7-liter Hemi bumps power up to 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (slightly more if you choose the Road & Track package or the limited-production Daytona R/T model), worthy stats in line with the Charger’s legend. Hate to disappoint here, but only an automatic transmission is offered. But, with likable styling the Charger will probably sell well. Those that hark back to the days of astounding horsepower will need to step up to the Charger SRT-8.
Dodge Charger SRT-8
Okay, it does have four doors but Dodge has taken steps to bring the new Charger closer to the legend it is named after with the inclusion of the SRT-8 upgrade. Yes, once again the Dodge Charger can pound the pavement like its 1960s predecessors, thanks to the SRT-8 performance upgrade. With 425 tire- smoking horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2006 Dodge Charger SRT-8 is a brawler, feeding all of that power to the street through a five-speed automatic (sorry, no manual) transmission with manual control. But, unlike Chargers of old, this new SRT-8 sedan can handle curves as well as straights. Adhered to the asphalt by 255/45R20 tires in the rear and 245/45R20 rubber in the front – yes, you read that size correctly – the Charger SRT-8 hugs the road. Bringing everything to a halt are four-piston vented Brembo brakes, and included as standard equipment are three modern day technologies: ABS, traction control, and stability control.
Dodge Magnum SRT-8
If the Dodge Charger whets your appetite for performance but you need more utility than a trunk can provide, try the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 on for size. Making good use of the corporate 6.1-liter Hemi engine, the Magnum SRT-8 blends the extra cargo area of a station wagon with blistering performance in a very stylish package. With 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, the Magnum gets down the road using the same five-speed automatic transmission as the Charger SRT-8, as well as the sport-tuned suspension, four-piston vented Brembo brakes, and the twenty-inch wheels wearing performance rubber.
Ford Fusion
New for 2006, the Ford Fusion enters the mid-size sedan segment with modern styling cues taken from the stylish Ford 427 concept car. The Fusion is offered with either a 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder motor producing 160 horsepower or a 221-horsepower 3.0-liter V6. Choose the four cylinder and you get the option of a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. Choosing the V6 limits you to a six-speed automatic. Flip-down 60/40 split rear seats will accommodate larger items that won’t fit into the already spacious 15.8 cubic foot trunk space. Based on the Mazda 6 platform, the new Ford Fusion is fun to drive, fun to look at, and a terrific domestic sedan.
Honda Civic
Highly anticipated by both the media and public alike, the new 2006 Honda Civic is completely redesigned and might become the new benchmark of the compact class. Powered by a four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 128 lb.-ft. of torque, the new 2006 Civic provides a choice between a five-speed manual or automatic transmission. And, given today’s high gas prices, fuel economy ratings with the automatic are an impressive 30-mpg city and 40-mpg highway. With new styling, a larger and more comfortable interior, and Honda’s legendary reputation for building affordable and reliable cars, there is no reason the new 2006 Civic won’t be a big success.
Hyundai Accent
With more competition than ever, the Hyundai Accent was in need of drastic change to remain a viable contender. None too soon, Hyundai introduces a larger, more refined 2006 Accent. The Accent comes in only one body style, the GLS sedan, equipped with the most powerful engine in its class (not including the new Kia Rio, with which it shares basic underpinnings). A new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 110 horsepower and 107 lb.-ft. of torque, has been placed under the hood. The 2006 Hyundai Accent comes with a standard five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission and is well equipped with features for the price.
Hyundai Azera
Replacing the XG350 as Hyundai’s new flagship vehicle, the sleek, new 2006 Azera is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 producing 265 horsepower and 257 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission delivers the power to the wheels. Electronic stability and traction control come as standard equipment on the new 2006 Hyundai Azera, along with six standard airbags and a host of luxury features.
Hyundai Sonata
Aiming at the heart of the midsize market, the redesigned and incredibly competent 2006 Hyundai Sonata is available in three trim levels. The base GL model offers a 162-horsepower, four-cylinder motor mated to either a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. Step up to the GLS and choose from the same four-cylinder mated to a four-speed automatic or a 235-horsepower six-cylinder mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. At the top of the lineup is the LX, equipped with the V6/automatic combo and an array of standard features. Exclusive to the LX are exterior chrome trim, automatic climate control with Hyundai’s air quality system, and leather seating with matching door inserts and sliding armrests. All Sonatas are equipped with front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as stability control, and are covered by an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Kia Rio
Re-designed for 2006, the Kia Rio sedan is built on a new platform giving the new car a longer wheelbase and increased width for a roomier cabin. Power is also up with the use of the new 1.6-liter engine producing 110 horsepower and 107 lb.-ft. of torque. Either a five-speed manual or an optional automatic can be mated to the new engine. But safety is the big news for the 2006 Kia Rio, which comes standard with six airbags and is the only car in its class to offer full-length side curtain airbags.
Kia Rio5
Like the Rio sedan but want a sportier look and more cargo room? No problem. Kia has just the car for you in the Kia Rio5 hatchback. Powered by the same 110-horsepower engine and offering the same safety features as the Rio sedan, the 2006 Kia Rio5 is a perfect fit. Thanks to a sportier look and better practicality for those on the go, the Rio5 is a more compelling choice than the sedan.
MazdaSpeed 6
For those in the market for a performance sedan, Mazda introduces the 2006 MazdaSpeed 6. This massaged Mazda 6 comes with an array of performance add-ons inside and out. The 2006 MazdaSpeed 6 packs a turbocharged, 274-horsepower engine under its hood for starters. The 2.3-liter motor also makes 280 lb.-ft. of torque, and the turbo delivers up to 15.6 psi of boost. All of the power is mated to an all-new, high-performance, six-speed manual transmission specifically geared for the MazdaSpeed 6. Mazda’s Active Torque-split AWD system aids acceleration and handling. Interior upgrades include stainless steel scuff plates, front sport seats, a Bose six-disc audio system with CD changer, and alloy pedals. Choose the upgraded Touring model and get black leather-trimmed upholstery with eight-way adjustable front seats, heated door mirrors, keyless entry, and a power moonroof.
Mercury Milan
Mercury is targeting a much younger buyer these days. The new 2006 Mercury Milan aims to bring buyers between 26 and 39 into showrooms. The Milan is powered by your choice between two engines. The smaller of the two is a 2.3-liter inline four cylinder that produces 160 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque. This motor is equipped with a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. Choosing the larger 3.0-liter V6 engine gets you 210 horsepower, 200 lb.-ft. of torque, and a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Only time will tell if Mercury’s plan to entice younger buyers with the Milan will work, but since it’s a rebadged version of the excellent Ford Fusion, chances are good.
Mitsubishi Evolution IX
When it comes to affordable, speedy sedans, the 2006 Mitsubishi Evolution IX has to be near the top of the shopping list. With 286 horsepower from the turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder flowing to all four wheels all the time, few other sedans can match its performance and handling. In addition to power and grip, the Evolution IX comes with a five-speed manual close-ratio transmission and rides on a multi-link wishbone suspension front and rear. Downsides include a rough ride and styling that is appropriate only for those under 30 years of age.
Pontiac G6 GTP
Pontiac is stepping up the performance of the G6 lineup with the addition of the GTP performance model. Powering the GTP is a 3.9-liter V6 producing 240 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque, driving the front wheels through a four-speed automatic with manual shift capability. Buyers can choose between coupe, convertible, or sedan body styles – but only the coupe offers an optional six-speed manual transmission. You can spot a G6 GTP by its upsized 18-inch wheels.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The new 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has undergone a complete redesign and is aimed directly at buyers wanting a comfortable four-door compact combined with European ride and handling. A 2.0-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque, producing plenty of punch throughout the rev range. Standard on the Jetta GLI is a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) manual transmission. DSG is a true manual but without a clutch, so it operates like an automatic while giving the driver the ability to shift via paddles mounted on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen Passat Sedan
For 2006, Volkswagen introduces an all-new Passat, and it will be among the most powerful front-drive cars offered by the German automaker. Two engine choices are offered. Available now is the standard turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque. The most powerful motor, set for release later in the year, is the 3.6-liter six-cylinder boasting 280 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. The standard transmission is a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift capability.
Volkswagen Passat Wagon
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat station wagon is equipped with the same 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 found in the Passat sedan. As before, the Passat wagon is available with an all-wheel-drive system called 4Motion. With the all-new styling, larger proportions, more cargo space, and Volkswagen’s beautifully rendered cabins, the 2006 Passat wagon is sure to please.
Photos courtesy of the manufacturers