Posted on : June 20, 2008
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Just as with your body, sometimes you want a vehicle that's big ...
but not too big. Four midsize, new-for-2007 SUVs hit the street with
style and performance.
LAND ROVER LR2 The compact/luxury LR2 comes powered by a 230-hp
inline-six engine with a six-speed automatic transmission that includes
a sequential-shift feature and a "sport" mode for livelier performance.
The standard all-wheel-drive system incorporates a rugged Terrain
Response scheme for off-road use, with several chassis-control
arrangements, seven airbags and a panoramic two-piece sunroof standard.
$30,000 (est.); (800) 346-3493 or landroverusa.com
HONDA ELEMENT SC The boxy Honda
Element adds street cred in a new urban-hip SC version that includes a
lowered sports suspension with 17-inch alloy wheels and tires. The SC
also offers projector-beam headlamps, a unique exterior treatment and a
more upscale interior. A 166-hp 2.4-liter 14 engine can be mated to
either a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic. $22,695;
(800) 999-1009 or honda.com
SATURN VUE GREEN LINE Touted as the least-expensive hybrid-powered SUV
in the U.S., the Saturn Vue Green Line utilizes a sophisticated
gas/electric powertrain to obtain an impressive 27 mpg in the city and
32 mpg on the highway. An electric motor/generator works in tandem with
a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a self-charging battery pack.
Style-wise, it's clad in sleeker aerodynamics and rides on lightweight
aluminum wheels. $22,370; (800) 553-6000 or saturn.com
DODGE NITRO With an available 4X4 system and a choice of two
powerful V6 engines and three transmissions, the Dodge Nitro is at home
both in the city and out on the trails. Aimed at the active set, its
"Load 'n Go" cargo floor slides 18 inches rearward for easy loading and
unloading, and a compact utility table is optional for impromptu dining
al fresco. $19,885; (800) 423-6343 or dodge.com
