2009 NAIAS Day Two
Ford, General Motors and Chrysler all have a unique story to tell. Chances are, however, it isn’t the one many people are thinking of. With the current talk centered around government bailouts, overly gracious executive compensation and basic survival, it is easy to forget the Detroit Big 3 are introducing several great new vehicles in the coming year. Here are some additional highlights from the 2009 NAIAS.
2010 Ford Taurus
I must admit, I was quite prepared to be unimpressed with the new Ford Taurus. Not a fan of the moniker associated with this midsize family sedan, I was pleasantly surprised by the good looks and quality of workmanship on display at Cobo Arena.
The entire executive team was on stage, including William Clay Ford Jr., introducing what is likely to be Ford’s most important vehicle for the foreseeable future. The shift from big trucks and SUVs started years ago and Ford Motor Company knew the writing was on the wall. Unlike its American car company counterparts, Ford reacted just in time and the fruit of their passionate shift in vehicle design and production is the all-new, 2010 Ford Taurus.
Power for the Taurus comes in the form of a 3.5L Duratec V6 engine. This stalwart powerhouse generates 263 horsepower and 249 lb.-ft or torque. Two, brand new 6-speed automatic transmissions are available. In the near future, Ford also plans to make EcoBoost engine technology available on the new Ford Taurus. For now, expect the new Taurus to be equal to, or slightly better than, the competition in this segment.
Inside, the Taurus receives numerous upgrades in both technology and touch. Intelligent Access with push button start allows the driver to enter the vehicle and drive away without ever removing the key from their pocket. Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support aid in safety.
Ford SYNC is fully integrated, along with multi-contour seats for front occupants and Sony sound. Taking aggressive aim at the competition, the 2010 Ford Taurus is priced similar to the 2009 model, starting at $25,995. At that price, it’s a bargain.
2011 Chevrolet Cruze
I first saw the Chevrolet Cruze earlier this year at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. At the time, talk seemed to indicate it would appear in 2009 as a 2010 model. Then, the current economic downturn arrived and General Motors found itself on Capital Hill asking for billions in loan guarantees. What should have been a no-brainer for the Detroit based automaker was delayed a full year. We now expect the Chevrolet Cruze to make an entrance in 2010 as a 2011 model. With this in mind, will it be worth the wait?
From what I saw of the current vehicle on display at the 2009 NAIAS, the answer to that question is yes. A good-looking, well engineered 4-door sedan, the Chevrolet Cruze appears to have what it takes to compete in this segment. Whether or not it can convince Toyota and Honda buyers to switch is the billion dollar question.
Two new engines power the North American version of the Cruze. A 1.8L DOHC VVT 4- cylinder or an optional 1.4L Turbo DOHC VVT engine with E85 capability offer excellent fuel economy and plenty of performance. Horsepower for the 1.8L engine is estimated at 138 hp; the 1.4L turbo offers slightly more performance at 140 hp. Mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, acceleration should be quick.
A world car, passenger space is roomy and filled with innovative ideas. Bluetooth and USB inputs provide on-the-go connectivity. Soft touch panels with low gloss finish add a distinctive touch. Sitting inside the Chevrolet Cruze on display in Detroit, I was impressed by the overall room, fit and finish. It is a shame “cruzing” will have to wait until next year. General Motors could use this sedan right now!
Must See Vehicles
The ultra-luxurious Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S takes the lead with sport sedan supremacy, 433 horsepower, 361 lb.-ft of torque, perforated Alcantara and leather seats, plus red trimmed Maserati Trident’s throughout. Designed with a distinctive, sexy exhaust note and mated to a sporty 6-speed automatic transmission, expect the best when this vehicle arrives in limited numbers.
The 2010 Lincoln MKT features “go big or go home” three-row seating and the brands distinctive split waterfall grille. Larger than the MKZ which features seating for up to five, the grand MKT is all Lincoln. Luxury abounds with leather trim and a jewel-like gauge cluster with LED white lighting. Engine options include a 3.7L Duratec V-6 and 3.5 -liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6.
Other vehicles of interest included the 2010 Buick LaCrosse (Buick’s are a favorite in China), Lincoln Concept C, Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss, Honda Insight and Subaru Legacy Concept to name a few. Chinese automakers BYD and Brilliance also showcased new vehicles with the intention to reach North America shores with low cost vehicles in the not-to-distant future.
Summary
The 2009 North American International Auto Show proves when push comes to shove; automakers have the capability to respond to the changing needs of consumers and deliver desirable vehicles. The year ahead is certain to have its share of winners and losers. Those on the losing side may find themselves permanently out of the game. It promises to be an interesting ride and we’ll be there covering all the details.
