Mercedes-Benz M-Class

2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Overview

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV is just the right size and is set up well for many families. It isn't so large that it's cumbersome or hard to park, but it comfortably seats five and carries plenty of stuff. As daily transportation, it doesn't feel like a truck, and it won't beat its driver or passengers up. Yet it has the potential for some fairly serious off-road adventuring, and it can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The M-Class is more than powerful enough in any of its variations. And it offers the safety equipment, luxury accoutrements, style and smooth finish expected of a Mercedes-Benz.

For 2008, the M-Class line replaces the ML500 with the more powerful ML550. Also called the M-Class, the lineup continues to include the ML350 with its gasoline V6, the fuel-efficient ML320 CDI diesel, and the ultra-high performance ML63 AMG.

With the ML320 CDI, you can forget just about everything bad you knew about diesels. It's smooth and quiet, and clean. It gives up nothing to the standard, gasoline-powered ML350. It's equipped identically, except for its diesel engine. The 3.0-liter diesel V6 generates 398 pound-feet of torque, comparable to a large-displacement V8, and brings a substantial improvement in fuel economy.

The ML63 AMG features a hand-built V8 that generates 503 horsepower with AMG tuning and enhancements to match all that power. Though considerably more expensive than other M-Class models, the ML63 AMG is a true high-performance machine. Its 6.2-liter V8 is hand-built by a single technician. It bursts from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, according to Mercedes, with top speed electronically limited at 155 mph. Plus, it comes with the full load of luxury features.

With increases of 80 horsepower and 55 lb-ft of torque, the new ML550 reaches 60 in 5.6 seconds, more than a second quicker than the previous ML500. It sports the same front end as the ML63 without all the amenities and super-sport equipment, and starts at roughly $30,000 less than an ML63.

The original M-Class helped make luxury SUVs a familiar part of the automotive landscape. Completely redesigned for the 2006 model year, this second-generation M-Class is better than the original in every way. It's roomier, more comfortable and more car-like in its bearing. Its wheelbase is almost four inches longer, and its body three inches wider, all to better accommodate larger Americans inside. In the bargain, the coefficient of drag, or Cd number, has dropped from brick-grade to a sylphlike 0.34, on par with many passenger cars that are much lower to the ground. This means quieter highway travel and better fuel economy.

In place of the original body-on-frame, truck-style design, this second-generation M-Class has welded unibody construction with isolated front and rear subframes, a technique that emphasizes rigidity, decreased vibration and lower weight. The unibody also reduces its overall height, making it easier for families to get in and out. The M-Class has given up any pretense to being a large-family vehicle. The optional side-facing rear seats from the old model are gone (they weren't very good anyway), so the M-Class is strictly a five-seater. You'll want to look at the GL-Class for seven-seat accommodations in a Mercedes SUV.

The second-generation M-Class introduced for 2006 brought a new look and larger size along with a double-wishbone front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension emphasizing sedan-style dynamics. Yet with a two-range transfer case on most models, and a sophisticated control program for the full-time all-wheel-drive, the M-Class can get its driver through some tricky off-road situations.

M-Class buyers will pay a premium over many other comparably equipped luxury SUVs, but those who appreciate the cache and engineering strengths of the Mercedes brand will find plenty to like here.

All 2008 models come standard with a sunroof, blue window tint and 19-inch wheels.

Model Lineup

The 2008 Mercedes M-Class includes four models. Each is equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission and electronically managed 4ETS fulltime all-wheel drive. The primary distinguishing feature for each model is its engine.

The ML350 ($43,650) is powered by the latest-generation Mercedes 3.5-liter V6, generating 268 horsepower. It comes with vinyl upholstery, automatic headlights, power seats, sunroof, 19-inch wheels and an eight-speaker stereo with CD.

The ML320CDI ($44,650) is equipped similarly but with the 215-hp 3.0-liter diesel V6 rated at 398 pound-feet of torque.

The ML550 ($52,400) gets the latest four-valve 382-hp V8 and more standard features. These include heated, leather covered front seats, walnut burl trim, rain-sensing wipers and Tele-Aid emergency communication. The ML550 also includes more potent brakes and AMG front styling.

The ML63 AMG ($86,650) features a 6.2-liter V8 that generates 503 hp along with an AMG transmission, AMG shocks and suspension tuning, high-performance P295/40ZR20 tires on 20-inch wheels, AMG brakes, an air dam and other aerodynamic aids, AMG instruments, harman/kardon Logic7 CD6 audio with 12 speakers, and leather upholstery.

Options include Distronic radar-managed cruise control ($2,200), Parktronic obstacle warning ($770), dual-screen rear-seat DVD entertainment system ($2,670), Keyless Go starting ($1,100), iPod integration kit ($375), CD6 changer ($450). Three packages are available, designated Premium I that includes DVD navigation ($3,650), PII ($5,550), and PIII ($8,500), with exact content tied to the model. Last year's AMG Sport Package ($4,550) is standard on M-Class V8s.

Safety features on all models includes two-stage front airbags for the driver and front passenger, side-impact airbags front and rear (torso protection) and curtain-style head protection airbags. A rollover sensor can activate both the seat-belt tensioners and curtain airbags if the vehicle senses an imminent rollover. An Electronic Stability Program comes standard along with advanced anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution. A tire pressure warning system is also standard.

Lexus

2008 Lexus RX
Smooth, luxurious crossover SUV.

By New Car Test Drive
2008 Lexus RX
Overview

The Lexus RX is smooth and comfortable, and it's flexible when it comes to hauling people or cargo. It's finished with style and built like the proverbial Swiss watch, and it offers all the latest features.

The RX 350 offers brisk acceleration performance to its powerful yet efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine introduced on 2007 models. The RX 400h features a hybrid gas-electric powerplant.

For 2008, the changes are mainly cosmetic. The only mechanical change is the addition of a Vehicle Stability Control cut-off switch.

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 features a new front grille design and chrome door handles. Two new exterior colors are available as well as a new interior wood trim option, black bird's-eye maple, available with the light-gray interior. Newly optional are seven-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a liquid graphite finish.

The 2008 Lexus RX 400h gets a new finish on the grille, a blue hybrid badge on the front of models without the towing package, chrome door handles, new finish for the five-spoke, 18-inch wheels, a color-keyed rear spoiler, seven new colors, and black bird's-eye maple wood trim is available with light-gray interiors.

With the RX series, Lexus pioneered the crossover-style SUV, based on a unit-body car platform rather than a heavy-duty truck frame. Crossover utility vehicles offer better ride and handling and better fuel economy than truck-based SUVs, but they still deliver many of the things buyers want in an SUV: more cargo space than a car, a better view over traffic and a sense of security that accompanies an elevated driving position. The RX doesn't offer the big towing capacity or off-road capability of a true truck, but an all-wheel-drive RX 350 handles gravel and snow with ease, and it can tow up to 3500 pounds with the optional trailer package.

The RX is as quiet inside as most cars. It's easy to drive and easier than most SUVs to park, with light steering and responsive brakes. It also offers the latest technology: headlights that swivel to help the driver see around corners, a rear-mounted camera that displays what's behind on the dash-mounted navigation screen, a voice-activated hands-free telephone system, cruise control that can adjust for changes in traffic and a giant sunroof. It's equipped with the latest in passive safety features, including seven airbags.

The RX 400h combines a gasoline-powered V6 with one high-torque electric motor-generator on the front-wheel-drive model, and two motors on the all-wheel-drive model. The gas engine can propel the car or recharge the batteries. Most of the time the RX 400h runs on a combination of the V6 and electric motors, but in certain situations it will run strictly on the V6 engine, and in others strictly with the electric motors.

Emissions are extremely low, reducing the impact on the environment to something in the neighborhood of nil. The RX 400h burns about as much gas as a compact car. Yet it drives essentially the same as the RX 350. It accelerates as quickly off the line (which is quite quick), and more quickly at certain speeds. The main difference comes when the RX 400h runs only on the electric motors: when it glides serenely through a parking lot or down a neighborhood street.

In short, the RX 400h delivers the performance of some V8-powered SUVs with the economy of a four-cylinder. There are lots of good reasons to choose it over the standard RX 350, but not economic reasons. The RX 350 is a very efficient vehicle in its own right, and now that Lexus has equipped both variants identically, the $4,000 price premium for the RX 400h pays strictly for the hybrid drivetrain.

The Lexus RX 350 is well-suited for just about any assignment, from a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to a camping trip in the Sierra Nevada. It's stylish and at home in the valet line at a fancy restaurant.

Model Lineup

The 2008 Lexus RX 350 is available with a choice of front-wheel drive ($37,400) or permanent all-wheel drive ($38,800). The RX 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter dual-overhead-cam V6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower through a five-speed automatic transmission. The RX 400h comes standard with the same equipment as the RX 350, except its hybrid gas-electric powertrain. The RX 400h also offers a choice of front drive ($41,180) and all-wheel drive ($42,580).

Standard features: cloth upholstery, automatic dual-zone climate control, a 132-watt AM/FM/cassette stereo with eight-speakers and an in-dash, six-CD changer, cruise control, privacy glass, automatic headlamps, 10-way power adjustment for both front seats, 17-inch aluminum wheels and leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob.

Options for both the RX 350 and RX 400h: The Premium Package ($1,245) includes leather upholstery, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, a roof rack, power moonroof and entry lights that illuminate the ground below the doors. The Premium Plus Package ($2,060) includes the features from the Premium Package and adds high-intensity discharge headlamps that turn in the direction of travel.

The navigation system ($2,650) with Bluetooth and voice command capability includes a rear-view camera that projects an image of what's behind whenever reverse is engaged.

The navigation system with Mark Levinson audio ($6,190) on the RX 350 starts with the Premium Plus Package and adds 210 watts, more speakers with a subwoofer and high-tech digital sound processing. On the RX 400h, it costs less ($4,130) but requires purchasing either the Premium or Premium Plus Package. The Mark Levinson audio system is available as a stand-alone option on the RX 400h ($980).

A heated-seat package ($665) comes with rain-sensing wipers and headlight washers. The Tow Prep ($160) package includes a transmission cooler, heavy-duty alternator and larger radiator. Other options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system ($1,740 for the RX 350; $1,840 for the RX 400h), laser-managed Dynamic Cruise Control ($600), and HID headlamps ($815). XM and Sirius satellite radio are offered as a dealer-installed option.

A few options are available on only the RX 350: The giant multi-panel sunroof ($2,840) comes packaged with features from the Premium Package. The Performance Package ($4,055) includes all of the items in the Premium PLUS Package, plus 18-inch graphite-colored aluminum alloy wheels with wider tires, height-adjustable air suspension, sequential-shifting transmission, and rain-sensing wipers. Heated front seats ($540) can be ordered as a stand-alone option.

Safety features that come standard include the mandated front airbags, plus a smaller airbag to protect the driver's knees. Front passengers get side-impact airbags for torso protection, while the curtain-style head protection airbags span both rows and deploy to offer head protection if the vehicle senses the possibility of a rollover. Advanced ABS, traction control and electronic stability control come standard.

Jaguar

2009 Jaguar XF

By Mitch McCullough

On Sale: Spring 2008
Expected Pricing: $70,000-$90,000?

The 2009 Jaguar XF, a totally new four-door sedan, goes on sale in North America in Spring 2008. Jaguar retailers are taking orders now.

The XF signals a new design and engineering direction Jaguar will be taking in the coming years, the company says. Jaguar designed the XF to exude the visual excitement of a coupe with room for five adults. The interior is designed to look contemporary but uniquely Jaguar with luxurious materials, sophisticated instruments and calm mood lighting.

Surprise-and-delight features include a start button that pulses red like a heartbeat when getting into the car and air conditioning vents that close for a flush appearance when getting out. Premium audio, voice-activated controls, a blind spot monitor, front and rear parking aids, a rearview camera, and adaptive cruise control are available.

The XF is designed to perform as both sports car and luxurious long-distance cruiser. The chassis was designed to be lightweight and rigid for a refined ride and excellent handling.

The six-speed automatic transmission features shift-by-wire control with a sequential-shift system designed for rapid and smooth shifting. Drivers can select gears manually via paddles on the steering wheel and can switch from Park to Reverse to Drive and other shift modes via a rotary knob. This system, called JaguarDrive Control, allows selection of Dynamic and Winter modes that match shift strategies, throttle progression and Dynamic Stability Control settings to mood and conditions.

Three trim levels will be available: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Supercharged. They will look identical, except the Supercharged model will be identifiable by its big 20-inch wheels.

The standard engine is a 4.2-liter V8 capable of 0-60 mph performance in 6.2 seconds, according to Jaguar, with top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. That's impressive acceleration performance. A supercharged version of this engine boosts 0-60 performance to just 5.1 seconds, very quick indeed. V6 and diesel versions available in the UK are not expected to be part of the U.S. model mix.

The XF brims with active safety features. Among them: Electronic Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, anti-lock brakes, Dynamic Stability Control, Cornering Brake Control, Understeer Control, and Engine Drag Torque Control.

The XF was designed to occupy the role of the original XJ Series 1 and was inspired by the old XJ6, which is smaller than today's XJ. It will compete with the BMW 5 Series, Lexus GS 300, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Audi A6. The Jaguar XF measures 195.3 inches long, 73.9 inches wide, and rides on a 114.5-inch wheelbase. The XF is just slightly longer and wider than the A6, and the Jaguar's wheelbase is relatively long for the class.

The sleek, coupe-like design of XF is intended to push it away from the boundaries of the three-box style of a traditional sedan. A sweeping silhouette inspired by the XK and relatively short front and rear overhangs give the XF a sporty appearance. The big grille and strong shoulders are designed to suggest Jaguar. The grille's woven mesh is designed to give it a quintessentially British appearance. A big growler badge in the grille, a chrome leaper on the rear, and Jaguar nameplates over vents adorning the front fenders tell us this is a cat.

But there's no question the XF is a departure from previous designs and we wonder whether people will know it's a Jag. In addition to the sleek body design, the headlights and taillights are thoroughly modern. Modern cues include a rising waistline and high tail for smooth aerodynamics and trunk space that rivals the best of the class.

Pricing won't likely be announced before the XF goes on sale in the spring and it's hard to guess how much it will be. The XF with V8 retails for 44,500 pounds sterling in the UK, while the Supercharged model retails 54,900 pounds; exchange rates put that at $89,614 and $110,557 respectively, but it's unlikely it'll be priced that high in the U.S. The Jaguar S-Type, which the XF replaces, retails for $56,000, while the supercharged S-Type R retails for $65,000.

1-800-4-JAGUAR
www.jaguar.com/us