New York International Auto Show (2)

As promised, here is the conclusion of our New York International Auto coverage.

Among the many production cars unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show, Acura stood out with their bold MDX Concept vehicle. Featuring bold lines and an aggressive stance, the next generation MDX, when it goes on sale in the fall of '06, will be scaring away many of its mid-size luxury SUV competitors. It will be powered by a new, more powerful V6 with rumored horsepower topping 260 coupled to the company's revolutionary Super-Handling-AWD which can transfer power not only front-to-back, but also side-to-side along the rear axel. The new MDX will not disappoint and will surely revitalize the segment as it did when first introduced back in 2000.

Mazda held quite a showing as it introduced two brand new vehicles for the 2007 model year. First, Mazda exposed its new MAZDASPEED3. This variant of the basic 3, on sale since late 2003, has proven one of the best small cars on the market today. The MAZDASPEED version can only get better. First, Mazda dropped in its relatively new 2.3L Direct-Injected turbocharged I-4 from the MAZDASPEED 6 and new CX-7 here putting out upwards of 250HP and 280lb-ft of torque through the front wheels. A slick 6-speed manual makes rowing your own gears a joy. The exterior has been enhanced with larger front and rear fenders as well as aerodynamic side skirts and 18" wheels. The inside will feature new bucket seats with contrasting stitching as well as an optional pop-up navigation system.

The second Mazda offering on the show floor was the new CX-9. Mazda took time to make sure the CX-9 is as brand loyal as possible (i.e. soul of a sports car in every model). When it goes on sale this fall, a 3.5L V6 turning out 250HP with a slick 6-speed automatic transmission will get you moving. This power will hit the ground via your choice of FWD or AWD. Mazda took painstaking measures to make sure the CX-9 was injected with some of that Zoom-Zoom DNA and it seems they have succeeded. The suspension is more taught without being punishing making for less body roll. As for the interior, Mazda has come a long way towards a more refined riding experience with soft touch dash materials as well as a beautiful instrument panel and soft leather seating should you check that option box. The rear features a 60/40 split second row and a 50/50 split third row making for loads of cargo space (17.2 cu. ft. behind the third row!). The standard Roll Stability Control (RSC) as well as Traction/Stability Control make sure you will always be safe. The most basic CX-9 will be fitted with A/C, power everything, cruise control, and 6 airbags. Such highbrow options such as a high-end stereo system, a power liftgate, HID headlamps and the aforementioned leather will make this one of the best luxo cruisers around.

Finally, Jeep uncovered a second form of its totally new for '07 Wrangler -- the Unlimited. But this is more than just the stretch it was last time. For the first time since the Wrangler's brother's (Willys Jeep) inception during WWII, the Wrangler will have 4 doors! The Wrangler Unlimited will feature all of the new Wrangler's equipment including the new 3.8L V6 generating 205HP and 240lb-ft. of torque and Sunrider soft-top with 3 different positions (closed, sunroof, and full convertible). Jeep also promises many safety upgrades to keep their passengers secure both on and off-road.

If you have any comments about what you saw at the NY Auto Show or any general comments, PLEASE send them in. Just click on the comments button at the bottom of this entry and let me hear you!

If you want to see video footage of the cars you've just read about from the NY Auto Show, scroll down and click PLAY 6

Thanks,
Ben