Portland International Auto Show 2008

Portland International Auto Show 2008

The Portland International Auto Show was held January 24-27, 2008 at the Oregon Convention Center in downtown Portland, Oregon. I initially attended on Thursday the 24th, but realized that I had rushed through through the show and missed a few things, so I returned on Sunday the 27th.

The Portland International Auto Show is sponsored by the Metro Portland New Car Dealers Association, which was founded in 1914 and represents nearly 100 area car dealers. The 2007 show features cars from about 35 manufacturers, as well as some special features.

Although Portland is a smaller city and in the past the automakers rarely brought their exciting concept cars to Portland, this year, as with list year, several automakers brought in some of their concept cars. As in previous years, the Association brought in the exotic sports cars, motorcycles, aftermarket dealers and customizers. Noticeably absent this year was the racing gallery. There were also no classic cars present this year.

This year's show almost seemed to have an unofficial environmental theme, with many automakers debuting hybrid models, Volkswagen sending their Dieselution exhibit to extol the environmental benefits of their new clean diesel engines and Ecomotion displaying a variety of electric vehicles.

One new and interesting feature of this year's auto show (and one that has nothing to do with cars) was The Fountain, a live performing-arts presentation by The Living Garden. It consists of a woman who represents a fountain statue that comes to life, with water jets coming from her fingers and above her head. It is difficult to fully explain it, so I recommend watching the following video to get a feel for the performance. The entire performance lasted about 20 minutes and took place several times throughout the day.

This 40-foot Chinese Dragon Boat has been hanging in the Oregon Convention Center's east tower for many years, but I have never taken a picture of it until now. It was custom built in Taiwan and was donated by the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association and celebrates the annual Dragon Boat Races held during Portland's Rose Festival. The Living Garden performance took place under the Dragon Boat during this year's Auto Show.

As always, I will start with the most exciting vehicles displayed at the show: the exotics.

Exotics Gallery

Ferrari

This convertible is the Ferrari F430 Spyder. The F430 was introduced in 2005 and is powered by a 483-horsepower 4.3-liter V8 that will accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 193 miles per hour. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This is the hardtop version of the Ferrari F430, the F430 Coupe. It is otherwise essentially the same as the F430 Spyder. It is powered by the same 483-horsepower 4.3-liter V8, but is slightly more aerodynamic, so it will reach a top speed of 195 miles per hour. Like the Spyder, it was displayed courtesy of Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This is the Ferrari F599 GTB Fiorano, which was a new model for 2007. It is powered by a 6.0-liter 620-horsepower V12, which makes it the most powerful Ferrari production model, and gives it a top speed of over 205 miles per hour and will accelerate it from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 3.7 seconds. This example was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

The all-aluminum Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is powered by a 540-horsepower V12 that will accelerate the four-seater from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds and bring it to a top speed of over 196 miles per hour. It was displayed at the show by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Lamborghini

This is one of two Lamborghini Gallardo Spyders displayed at the auto show by Lamborghini Portland of Wilsonville, which is the new official Lamborghini dealer for the Portland area and is part of Gran Prix Imports. They displayed a total of four Lamborghinis at this year's show.

The Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder is powered by a 520-horsepower 5.0-liter V10 engine with a six-speed transmission and all-wheel drive and can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 195 miles per hour. The base price of the Gallardo Spyder is $212,500. The coupe starts at $182,550.

The Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera features a lightweight carbon fiber body that shaves 154 pounds from the Gallardo, bringing its weight down to under 3,000 pounds. With a more powerful 530-horsepower 5.0-liter V10 engine with a six-speed transmission and all-wheel drive, the Superleggera can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 196 miles per hour. The base price for the Gallardo Superleggera is $219,800.

The Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 features a carbon-fiber body and is powered by a 640-horsepower 6.5-liter V12 engine with a six-speed transmission and all-wheel drive and can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 211 miles per hour. The base price for the Murcielago coupe is $318,800. The roadster version starts at $350,200.

Lotus

This is a limited edition Lotus Exige S Club Racer, displayed by Lotus of Portland. Only 25 examples of the sky blue and black Club Racer were produced. The Exige S is powered by a 218-horsepower 4-cylinder engine that will accelerate the 2000-pound car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 148 miles per hour. This Club Racer version features a special interior along with the special paint job.

Maserati

The new Maserati GranTurismo coupe was unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Auto Salon. It is powered by a 405-horsepower 4.2-liter V8 that will accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 177 miles per hour. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Like last year, only Maserati had a sedan in the Exotic Gallery, but this year there were two examples. The first was this Quattroporte Executive GT. It is powered by a 400 horsepower 4.2 liter V8 with a 6-speed automatic transmission and it features chrome grilles, 19-inch ball-polished alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel with wood inserts and climate controls for the rear passengers. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

The other Maserati sedan was the sportier Quattroporte GT S which is powered by the same 400 horsepower 4.2 liter V8 with a 6-speed automatic transmission but feature steering wheel-mounted shift paddles, 20-inch chrome wheels, cross-drilled disc brakes and an interior with aluminum and carbon fiber highlights. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Spyker

Spyker Cars is a manufacturer of handbuilt sports cars from the Netherlands. The C8 is Spyker's main model. It is available in several versions, one of which is the C8 Spyder, illustrated by this example. The C8 is powered by a rear-mid mounted Audi 4.2 liter V8. It was displayed by Gran Prix Imports.

Ducati

The 2008 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 S was designed for Supermotocross racing and is powered by a 90-horsepower 1,078cc, L-twin four-stroke engine. It features lightweight racing wheels, Brembo brakes and liberal use of carbon fiber. It retails for $14,495. This example was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

The 2008 Ducati Monster S2R 1000 sport bike is powered by a 95-horsepower 992cc, L-twin four-stroke engine. It is similar in many ways to the Hypermotard racing bike but is intended for the street. It retails for $10,995. This example was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

The 1098S is Ducati's top-of-the-line high-performance sports bike. It's 2.0 liter two-cylinder engine produces 160 horsepower and can accelerate the motorcycle to 60 miles per hour in less than 2.8 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 186 miles per hour. The 1098S is priced at $19,995. This example was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Motorcycle Gallery

The sleek and streamlined Suzuki Boulevard M109R is powered by a 1,783cc V-Twin engine and features a steel frame and cast aluminum alloy wheels and swingarm. It retails for $12,699 and was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

The Suzuki B-King GSX1300BBK is powered by a 1,340cc four-cylinder engine wit titanium intake and exhaust valves and features a cast aluminum alloy frame, swingarm and shock absorber. It retails for 12,899 and was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

The Honda Shadow Sabre is powered by a 1,099cc V-Twin engine and is available from the factory in black with a flame paint job for $9,099. This example was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

The Honda Gold Wing GL18HPNAM8 Sport Touring motorcycle in Pearl White retails for $23,399. It features an 1,832cc six-cylinder engine, a premium audio system, heated grips, seat and passenger backrest, adjustable heat ducting at the footrests, a GPS navigation system with a color LCD screen and anti-lock brakes. This example was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

The Yamaha Star Raider S XV19CSXL retails for $13,780. It features a 113-cubic-inch V-twin engine, an aluminum frame and custom-chopper-inspired styling with extensive chrome. This example was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

The Yamaha Star Roadliner Midnight is the flagship of the Star line. It features a 113-cubic-inch V-twin engine, an aluminum frame and a distinctive streamlined design with Raven paint and blacked-out components. The retail price is $13,880. This example was displayed by Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Honda-Yamaha-Suzuki.

Aftermarket Gallery

This 2008 Maserati GranTurismo was displayed by 503 Motoring. The rear-wheel-drive GranTurismo is powered by a 390-horsepower 4.2 liter V8 with a six-speed transmission that will accelerate the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under five seconds with a top speed of 177 miles per hour. This GranTurismo includes color-matched 22-inch wheels added by 503 Motoring.

This 2007 Maserati Quattroporte was displayed by 503 Motoring. The rear-wheel-drive Quattroporte is powered by a 400-horsepower 4.2-liter V8 with a six-speed transmission that will accelerate the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under 6 seconds. 503 Motoring added color-matched 22-inch Asanti wheels and tires among other features.

This 2007 BMW M6 was displayed by 503 Motoring. The rear-wheel-drive M6 is powered by a 500-horsepower 5.0-liter V10 that allows the four-passenger grand tourer to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.6 seconds. 503 Motoring has added a carbon fiber hood and truck lid, custom 22-inch wheels and tires, Brembo brakes, Eisenmann exhaust and more to this M6, which was for sale for $109,000.

This 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 WALD was displayed by 503 Motoring. The flagship S550 is powered by a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter 32-valve V8 with a 4Matic transmission and all-wheel-drive. This S550 features a body kit and exhaust by Wald International and 22-inch wheels and tires.

This 2007/08 Porsche 911 GT3 was displayed by Gran Prix Imports. It is powered by a 415-horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engine that accelerates the 911 GT3 from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.1 seconds and brings it to a top speed of 193 miles per hour. The 2008 911 GT3 retails for $107,500.

This 2002 BMW Z8 is owned by Edie Schlosstein and Eric Swenson, and is maintained by Michael Christopherson of Pacific Motorsports, who displayed it at the auto show. The Z8 is powered by a 410-horsepower 4.9-liter aluminum V8 with a six-speed manual transmission, allowing the Z8 to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 4.1 seconds, and, with an unlocked chip like this Z8, reach a top speed of 186 miles per hour. The BMW Z8 originally cost $128,000.

This 2004 BMW 645Ci was displayed by Highline Customs and was for sale by Northwest Investment Cars. With only 31,000 miles on the odometer and factory warranty remaining, it was being offered for only $45,995.

This Mercedes-Benz SL600 convertible was displayed by Highline Customs. The SL600 is powered by a 5.5-liter V12 engine that produces at least 500 horsepower.

This Ford F-250 Super Duty Crew Cab has been customized by BTL Auto Sports & Off-Road. Changes include the lift and wheels, winch and front bumper, auxiliary lighting, rack and custom paint job.

This Dodge Charger has been customized by BTL Auto Sports & Off-Road. Changes include an aftermarket grille and wheels, the hood/intake and the custom two-tone paint scheme.

This Honda S2000 CR has been customized by BTL Auto Sports & Off-Road with an aftermarket vertical door conversion.

This NASCAR Dodge Charger Replica was displayed by American Race Car Products. A 2007 model was available for $49,000 or a 2008 model was $80,000.

Electric Vehicles

A large collection of quiet, zero-emission, all-electric vehicles were displayed by Ecomotion, showing a variety of styles.

The Miles ZX40ST Work Truck can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and has a range of up to 60 miles. It is intended for facility maintenance, deliveries, landscaping and other such uses, and the bed features fold-down side gates for easy loading and unloading.

The Miles ZX40 can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and has a range of up to 50 miles. It is intended for fleet and neighborhood driving.

The Myers Motors NmG is a highway-legal three-wheeled electric vehicle that seats one person. It has a top speed of over 76 miles per hour. It is considered a motorcycle so it allows the driver to use the carpool lane alone and still be fully protected from the elements and have the amenities that would come with driving an automobile.

Here is another Myers Motors NmG, sporting in a patriotic custom paint job. The NmG is by far the most common highway-legal electric vehicle in America. It can be purchased for about $36,000.

The three-wheeled ZAP Xebra Mini-Truck can reach speeds of up 40 miles per hour and has a range of up to 40 miles. It is intended for use by home enthusiasts or facility management and features a dump bed. It can also be equipped with a solar panel over the bed.

The three-wheeled ZAP Xebra Sedan can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and has a range of up to 40 miles.

2008 Manufacturer Displays

Acura

The Acura TL Type S A-Spec is powered by a 286-horsepower 3.5-liter aluminum-alloy 24-valve SOHC VTEC V-6 with either a five-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. The A-Spec package adds sport suspension, 18-inch wheels and a body kit.

Audi

The Audi R8 is a mid-engined, all-wheel-drive sports car based on the Lamborghini Gallardo that was introduced in Europe in 2007 and has come to the United States as a 2008 model. It is powered by a 420-horsepower 4.2 liter DOHC V8 with a six-speed transmission that can accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of nearly 190 miles per hour. The R8's starts at $109,000.

Audi introduced an all-new second-generation TT coupe in 2007. Now the TT Roadster is here as a 2008 model. It is available with either a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0 liter DOHC four-cylinder engine or a 250-horsepower 3.2 liter DOHC V6. Both engines come with six-speed transmissions.

The Audi A4 has received a facelift for 2008 that makes its styling more closely resemble that of the new A5. The A4 is powered by either a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0 liter DOHC four-cylinder engine or a 255-horsepower 3.2-liter DOHC V6, both with six-speed transmissions. A 4.2-liter DOHC V8 is available in the S4 and RS4.

Audi hasn't sold four-passenger coupes in North America since 1991. In 2008, that changes with the all-new A5, which is intended to compete with BMW's 6-series. The A5 is powered by either a 265-horsepower 3.2-liter DOHC V6 or a 354-horsepower 4.2-liter DOHC V8 in the S5, both with six-speed transmissions.

BMW

BMW's all-new 1 Series was represented by this 128i coupe, which starts aat just under $30,000. It is powered by a 230-horsepower 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve Valvetronic six-cylinder engine with either a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission with optional steering-wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. The 1 Series is also available with a 300-horsepower twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve six-cylinder engine that will accelerate the coupe from 0 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 5.1 seconds and as a soft-top convertible with a heated glass rear window.

The BMW 335i Convertible features a retractable hardtop and is powered by a 300-horsepower twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve six-cylinder engine with either a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission. Options include steering-wheel-mounted paddle-shifters and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The BMW 650i Convertible has been restyled slightly for 2008. It is powered by a 360-horsepower 4.8-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 with either a six-speed manual or six-speed sport automatic transmission. The convertible features an automatic, triple-lined, insulated soft top and a heated glass rear window that can be operated independently of the roof to serve as a wind deflector with the top down.

The 750Li is a long-wheelbase version of BMW's flagship 7 Series sedan, powered by a 360-horsepower 4.8-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 with a six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission that will accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds. The short-wheelbase version runs a second quicker. The 7 Series is also available with a 438-horsepower 6.0-liter DOHC 32-valve V12 that cuts the time down to 5.4 seconds.

Buick

The Buick Enclave is the new replacement for the Buick Rainier and Rendezvous SUVs. It is powered by a 275-horsepower 3.6-liter DOHC variable valve timing V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission and StabiliTrak^® electronic stability control. It is available with all-wheel-drive, articulating headlights and seating for eight.

Cadillac

The redesigned Cadillac CTS was awarded Motor Trend's 2008 Car of the Year. They even brought the trophy to the auto show. The standard engine is a 263-horsepower 3.6-liter DOHC V6 with variable valve timing, but the CTS offers an optional 304-horsepower 3.6-liter DOHC direct-injection V6 with variable valve timing which is the only gasoline direct-injection engine that doesn't require premium fuel. This increases horsepower and fuel economy while reducing hydrocarbon emissions at startup. Other features include a six-speed transmission, Bose sound system, and available all-wheel-drive.

The Cadillac XLR-V with a power retractable hardtop is powered by a 443-horsepower supercharged 4.4-liter Northstar V-8 with variable valve timing that will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.6 seconds. It also features a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, traction control, a DVD navigation system and a stereo with a 6-disc CD changer, Bose speakers and XM satellite radio. With optional 19-inch chrome aluminum wheels, this example retails for $101,300.

Chevrolet

The rear wheel drive Chevrolet SS concept debuted in 2003. It is powered by a 430-horsepower 6.0-liter aluminum V8 with a four-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission and features 21-inch aluminum wheels in the front and 22-inch aluminum wheels in the rear. Though it is a four-door sedan, the styling, especially the tail lights, recalls the Corvettes of the late 1960s and 1970s, while the front end is somewhat reminiscent of the Camaros and Chevelles of the early 1970s.

The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is powered by a 505-horsepower hand-built 7.0-liter OHV LS7 V8 with a six-speed transmission that will accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.7 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 198 miles per hour.

Chrysler never went forward with the panel version of the PT Cruiser. Now, Chevrolet is taking the chance that Chrysler wouldn't. The Chevrolet HHR Panel Van variant lacks a rear seat and cargo-area windows. The rear side doors are still operable, with door handles on the inside only near the front to be reached from the front doors. The Chevrolet Super Service logo was applied between Thursday and Sunday. The HHR Panel Van is available with the same engine choices as the regular HHR.

The all-new Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is powered by its own version of the Ecotec^® 2.4-liter engine with variable valve timing and its own Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid drivetrain's electric motor/generator assists the engine during acceleration and allows it to shut down at idle. The hybrid drivetrain also features early fuel shutoff during deceleration and regenerative braking.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is the first full-size hybrid SUV and the first two-mode hybrid SUV in America. It won the 2008 Green Car of the Year award from Green Car Journal. It can run on electricity alone up to 30 miles per hour, but with the 320-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 gasoline engine can tow up to 6,200 pounds. With active cylinder management that cuts the power to half the cylinders when not needed, the Tahoe Hybrid delivers fuel economy of 22 miles per gallon in the city, compared to 14 miles per gallon for the gasoline-only version.

Chrysler

The Chrysler Firepower concept car was first shown at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. It is based on a modified Dodge Viper chassis. It is powered by a 6.1 liter Hemi V8 with a five-speed AutoStick automatic transmission that gives it a top speed of 175 miles per hour. It retains the Viper's suspension and features 19-inch front wheels and 20-inch rear wheels.

The 300Cinister is a customized Chrysler 300C that has been designed by Steve Stanford and presented by Santini Paint. It features a supercharged engine and a paddle-shift transmission.

Chrysler's first entry into the hybrid market is the 2009 Aspen Hybrid SUV. It is powered by a 385-horsepower Hemi V8 with Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, that allows half the cylinders to stop firing when not needed. The V8 gives the Aspen towing capability, but as a hybrid, the engine can shut down completely at low speeds, letting the 300-volt battery pack and electric motors take over.

The all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the choice of a soft top in vinyl or cloth, or a retractable hard top. All three choices feature a fully-automatic power system with an electronic locking system that can be operated with a button on the car's remote. The Sebring Convertible offers the same engine choices as the Sebring sedan.

Dodge

The rear-wheel-drive Dodge Demon concept roadster is powered by 172-horsepower version of the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder World Engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. Its exterior color is Bright Amber Pearl. Looking like a "poor-man's Viper," if produced it would probably compete with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky. The Demon was first shown at the 2007 Geneva Auto Show in Switzerland.

The Dodge Charger Scat Pack Heritage Edition is a concept car based on the Charger SRT8 that was customized by Steve Stanford and Santini Paint.

The limited-edition Dodge Charger SRT8 Super Bee is equipped with the 425-horsepower 6.1 Liter Hemi V8 and adds a special B5 Blue Pearl paint scheme with classic Super Bee decals and unique seat to the Charger's potent SRT8 package.

After taking the 2007 model year off, the Dodge Viper SRT10 roadster is back with a larger engine: a 600 horsepower 8.4-liter OHV V10. The more powerful engine necessitated additional vents in the hood to improve cooling. A coupe version is also available.

The Dodge Caliber SRT4 is powered by a 285-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged DOHC 4-cylinder World engine with dual variable valve timing with a 6-speed manual transmission. The SRT4 also features a functional hood scoop and 19-inch wheels.

Ford

The Ford Reflex concept features a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain with new-generation lithium-ion batteries and solar cells that should be able to deliver fuel economy of 65 miles per gallon. Solar panels are built into the headlights and taillights to recharge the batteries, and solar panels in the roof power fans to keep the interior cool when the car is parked in the sun. The interior insulation is made of ground rubber recycled from scrap from the manufacture of Nike athletic shoes.

The Ford SYN^US concept was first displayed at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. The name is short for Synthesis-Urban Sanctuary. Only 158 inches long but 70 inches wide and featuring bank vault-inspired styling, the SYN^US looks like a miniature armored car, and there's a reason for that. When parked in "Secure Mode," protective shutters deploy to cover the windshield and side-door windows. The small rear-side windows employ bullet-resistant glass. Despite the rugged exterior, the interior comfortably seats four and features a 45-inch LCD-screen built into the rear hatch for viewing movies, surfing the internet or watching what going on outside through built-in external cameras. The SYN^US is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine.

The Ford F-250 Super Chief concept truck is powered by a Ford Tri-Flex V10 that can run on hydrogen, E-85 ethanol or regular unleaded gasoline, and has a range of 500 miles. This large truck rides on a wheelbase of 175 inches with an overall length of 265 inches, or 22 feet! It is 92.2 inches wide and 78.7 inches tall. The F-250 Super Chief was first displayed at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. After its appearance, an Atlanta lawyer offered Ford $3 million for the concept. Ford turned the offer down.

Ford's all-new 2009 Flex crossover utility vehicle will be available in the summer of 2008. It is powered by a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC Duratec V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission and AdvanceTrac^® electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control^TM and is available with optional all-wheel drive. Other options include seating for seven, a multi-panel Vista roof, rear console refrigeration and a power liftgate.

Ford's all-new 2009 F-150 will be available in the fall of 2008. I can only assume that its presence at the auto show made it more difficult to sell the 2008 models. The 2009 F-150 features a stronger frame, three V8 engine choices, and available 6-speed automatic transmission, standard AdvanceTrac^® electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control^TM and Trailer Sway Control and options like a voice-activated navigation radio, a reverse camera system, a tailgate step, box side steps, bed extender and cargo management system.

Ford's 2008 Bullitt Mustang commemorates the 40th Anniversary of the Warner Bros. film Bullitt, in which Steve McQueen drives a dark-green 1968 Ford Mustang GT with a 390 cubic inch V8 through the streets of San Francisco at up to 110 miles per hour in a chase scene that lasts for 9 minutes and 42 seconds in the movie but took nearly two weeks to film. The car in the movie lacked driving lights as well as any badging identifying it as a Ford, a Mustang or a GT, and the 2008 Bullitt Mustang recalls that with a lack of scoops and spoilers and a black mesh grille without an emblem. In fact, the only identification on the car is a single special "Ford Bullitt" badge on the decklid. The limited-edition Bullitt Mustang, of which only 7,700 are planned, is powered by a 315-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 and the exhaust system was specially designed to replicate the sound of the movie car. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5 seconds with a quarter-mile speed of 102.7 miles per hour, faster than the 1968's 7.8 seconds and 94 miles per hour. It is available only in dark-green or black and also features a special interior. The Bullitt Mustang retails for $31,075.

The Ford Expedition Funkmaster Flex Edition features a special paint job and interior. It is powered by the standard 5.4-liter SOHC V8 with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is equipped with four-wheel drive.

After killing off the Taurus name in 2007, Ford decided to bring it back in 2008, replacing the Five Hundred with the all-new Taurus. The new Taurus is powered by a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC Duratec V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission and is available with optional all-wheel drive and electronic stability control.

Building on the Taurus name, the Taurus X crossover utility vehicle replaces the Freestyle and fills the place of a Taurus wagon. Like the Taurus sedan, the Taurus X is powered by a 263-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC Duratec V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission and AdvanceTrac electronic stability control and is available with optional all-wheel drive and seating for up to seven.

The Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid SUV and has been redesigned for 2008. It is powered by a 133-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with a 94-horsepower electric motor and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The Escape Hybrid runs on the electric motor only below 25 miles per hour. The Escape Hybrid delivers fuel economy of up to 34 miles per gallon with a range of up to 500 miles of city driving from one tank of gas. It is available with four-wheel-drive and can tow up to 1,000 pounds.

Though its future is uncertain, Ford gave the compact Ranger pickup a facelift for 2008. The Ranger is the only compact pickup to offer a 7-foot bed, and with the base 143-horsepower 2.3-liter DOHC Duratec 4-cylinder engine, the Ranger is the most fuel-efficient pickup in America. A 148-horsepower 3.0-liter OHV V6 and a 207-horsepower 4.0-liter DOHC V6 are also available.

The new 2008 version of Ford's Super Duty truck went on sale in January of 2007, this F-450 Super Duty Lariat King Ranch Crew Cab pickup features the 350-horsepower 6.4-liter OHV Power Stroke V8 turbo-diesel engine and includes the optional tailgate step.

The Ford E-Series full-size van has been redesigned with new front-end styling that matches that of the Super Duty F-Series pickup. Other improvements include available traction control and available AdvanceTrac^® electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control.

GMC

Like its twin, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, the GMC Yukon Hybrid is powered by a 320-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 gasoline engine with active cylinder management that cuts the power to half the cylinders when not needed.

Honda

For 2008 the Honda S2000 roadster is now available as the S2000 CR with stiffer suspension, front and rear spoilers and a removable hardtop. In either form, the S2000 is powered by a high-revving 237-horsepower 2.2 liter VTEC four-cylinder engine and features a 6-speed manual transmission, Vehicle Stability Assist^TM with traction control and 17-inch wheels.

The Honda Civic Si Sedan joins the Civic Si Coupe for 2008. It features the same 197-horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission as the Civic Si Coupe. This particular coupe is one of 500 limited-production Civic MUGEN Si Sedans, featuring special track-tuned suspension, sports exhaust, 18-inch aluminum wheels and more aerodynamic styling.

Hummer

This example of the Hummer H3 was propped up on its front wheels to showcase its suspension and its shielding to protect its components during off-road driving.

Hyundai

The Hyundai Elantra Touring Beach Cruiser was first displayed at the 2007 Special Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas. It is based on the new 2009 Elantra Touring hatchback. This concept was customized by K-Daddyz Kustomz of Bakersfield, California and features a two-ton paint job in Amazing Grape and Tango Orange, an audio-visual system with four video screens, eight speakers, five amplifiers and eight subwoofers, and 20-inch Konig Rolf Blix wheels.

This 2008 Hyundai Elantra sedan features a number of parts made by INCUS, a Hyundai tuner, including the body kit, grille, suspension, dual exhaust and 17-inch wheels. It is probably powered by the Elantra's standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, which can deliver up to 33 miles per gallon.

The Hyundai Tiburon SE is powered by a 172-horsepower 2.7-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 with a 6-speed manual transmission and features Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control.

The Hyundai Veracruz SUV is the most expensive model in Hyundai's lineup. It is powered by a 260-horsepower 3.8-liter DOHC V6 with a 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission and offers features like Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, rain-sensing wipers and XM Radio.

Infiniti

The all-new Infiniti EX luxury crossover is powered by a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6, features either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and "self-healing" paint that absorbs small scratches over time and offers options like Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Departure Prevention the warn the driver if they are about to cross lane markings and an Around View Monitor that shows a 360-degree view around the vehicle when parking.

The rear-wheel drive Infiniti G37S coupe is powered by a 330-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 and offers an optional 4-Wheel Active Steer system that automatically alters the steering gear ratio and rear suspension as speed increases for better handling. This example also featured a navigation system that was fun to play with.

Jaguar

Jaguar's all-new 2009 XF sedan will be available in the March of 2008. It is powered by a 4.2-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 32-valve V8 that produces 300-horsepower. It is also available as a 420-horsepower supercharged version. The XF will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 121 miles per hour. The supercharged version will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 miles per hour. Both versions feature a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a pushbutton starter and iPod, mp3 player and Bluetooth cell phone connectivity.

The aluminum-bodied, rear-wheel drive Jaguar XJ is powered by a 4.2-liter DOHC V8 that produces 300-horsepower or a 400-horsepower supercharged version. For 2008 it receives restyled grilles and bumpers, new 19-inch and available 20-inch wheels, climate controlled seating, HD Radio and Bluetooth capability.

The all-aluminum Jaguar XK coupe is powered by a 300-horsepower 4.2-liter DOHC V8. It is also available as a convertible with a triple-layer soft top that retracts in 18 seconds.

The Jaguar XKR convertible (also available as a coupe) is powered by a 420-horsepower 4.2-liter Eaton-supercharged DOHC 32-valve V8 with a six-speed sequential-shift transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles that will accelerate the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5 seconds flat.

Jeep

Jeep refers to the four-wheel-drive Varsity concept as an Urban Adventure Concept. It is powered by a 300-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD is powered by a 215-horsepower 3.0-liter DOHC V6 turbo-diesel engine. With fuel economy of up to 23 miles per gallon, the Grand Cherokee CRD delivers a range of up to 425 miles on one tank of gas and can tow up to 7,400 pounds.

The Jeep Liberty is all-new for 2008, featuring a 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and offering features like a retractable 33x60 inch Sky Slider roof and the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System with a 20-gigabyte hard drive, 6.5-inch full-color touch screen and voice control to manage music, photos, communication traffic and GPS navigation.

The Jeep Patriot was present at last year's show, but the only example was roped off and inaccessible. This year I was able to get a close look at this small Jeep SUV. It is powered by either a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine or a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The Patriot delivers fuel economy of up to 28 miles per gallon and offers Trail Rated four-wheel drive.

This 2007 four-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited was customized by Relaxed Customs of Thousand Oaks, California for Steve Bucaro and has been displayed at the Special Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

Land Rover

The all-new LR2 is a new entry-level addition to the Land Rover line. It is powered by a 230-horsepower 3.2-liter DOHC six-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and includes permanent intelligent all-wheel drive, four-wheel electronic traction control, a Terrain Response system with four settings that the driver selects based on driving conditions to optimize the traction, stability and hill-descent controls for different off-