Portland International Auto Show 2009

Portland International Auto Show 2009

The Portland International Auto Show was held February 5-8, 2009 at the Oregon Convention Center in downtown Portland, Oregon. I attended on Thursday the 5th.

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 2009 show featured cars from 32 manufacturers, as well as some special features.

Perhaps a result of the weak economy, there were some absences this year. Although there were a few previews of 2010 models, no manufacturers brought any true concept cars this year. Also missing was the motorcycle gallery, and the gallery of aftermarket dealers and customizers was much smaller. As in previous years, the Association brought in the exotic sports cars and Ducati motorcycles, and there was a new feature in the display of several large commercial trucks. There was also a large gallery of classic cars present to commemorate the show's 100th anniversary.

As with last year's show, there seemed to be an unofficial environmental theme this year, with more hybrid models debuting, Ecomotion again displaying a variety of electric vehicles and a small collection of hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles.

100 Years of the Auto Show

2009 marked the 100th anniversary of the Portland Auto Show, and to celebrate an exhibit entitled 10 Decades of Signature Autos: 100 Years of the Auto Show consisting of classic cars illustrating the Portland Auto Show's history was set up in the Portland Ballroom. In addition to the cars, which were grouped by decade, a sign was set up for each decade giving the life expectancy and average salary of the time and listing major automotive milestones. Some of these displays had a few other period artifacts, and a few softly played popular music from the decade. I have placed the cars in chronological order and included the historical milestones where they would fit.

This 1903 Rambler, displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon, predates the Portland Auto Show. The Rambler brand was made by the Thomas B. Jeffery Company of Kenosha, Wisconsin, which was acquired by Nash, who resurrected the Rambler name in the 1950s.

1909-1919

Life Expectancy:

Women 51.8 years Men 48.4 years

Average Salary: $750/year

1911

The electric self-starter doubles the market for cars since it allows women to start the engine without danger of a violent kickback.

This 1911 Ford Model T Speedster was displayed by Jerry Jaksich.

1912

First gas station opens by Standard Oil in Cincinnati, Ohio

This 1913 Case 40 Model O Touring Car, displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon, features a 40 horsepower engine, dual ignition electric starting and its original leather seats.

1914

First traffic signal is unveiled in Cleveland

Henry Ford develops first moving assembly line

This 1917 Detroit Electric Model 64 5-Place Brougham is an early electric car displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon. It is powered by 14 6-Volt batteries for a total of 84 volts. It has a top speed of 30 miles per hour, will go 60-80 miles on a charge and will charge to full capacity overnight.

1919

Oregon enacts the first state gasoline tax

This 1919 Dodge Roadster was displayed by Alex Laws.

1920-1929

Life Expectancy:

Women 54.6 years Men 53.6 years

Average Salary: $1,236

1921

The first drive-in restaurant in the United States opens in Dallas, Texas

This 1922 Moon Model 6-40 Touring Sedan was displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon. It is powered by a 50 horsepower engine and has a 115-inch wheelbase.

1924

Chevrolet offers first radio options

1925

The first rental car: the Hertz "Driveurself"

1926

Cadillac introduces shatter-resistant safety glass

1928

Coast-to-coast bus service begins

This 1929 Ford Model A Roadster was displayed by Rey Reece.

1930-1939

Life Expectancy:

Women 61.6 years Men 58.1 years

Average Salary: $1,368

This 1930 Ford Model A Sports Coupe was displayed by Tom Raabe and Pete Smiley.

1932

Oldsmobile and Packard engines feature automatic chokes

This 1932 Nash Model 970 Sedan was displayed by Mike Larson of Vancouver, Washington.

This 1932 Studebaker Coupe was displayed by Tom Raabe and Jack Woolf.

1933

The first drive-in theater in the U.S. opens in Camden, New Jersey

1935

First automatic parking meter, the Park-O-Meter, is installed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

1938

Studebaker offers windshield washers

Buick creates the first electric turn signal

This 1939 Chevrolet Coupe was displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon.

This 1939 Plymouth P-8 4-Door Fastback, displayed by John & Harriet Sweeney of Portland, Oregon, is powered by an 82 horsepower engine and has a top speed of 82 miles per hour. It originally cost $685. This car appeared in two Hollywood movies: 1991's Come See the Paradise and 2005's Valley of Light.

1940-1949

Life Expectancy:

Women 68.2 years Men 60.8 years

Average Salary: $1,299

1941

Packard is the first to offer air conditioning

1941 Buick Special Sedanette

1942

Automobile production ceased due to war

This 1946 Dodge Businessman's Coupe was displayed by Michelle Helm-Carpinelli.

1947

Packard offers power seats and windows in its automobiles

1948

General Motors introduces curved glass windshields, increasing driver vision and

reducing glare

First radial tire, the Michelin X, is introduced

Daimler introduces electric windows

1949

The first crash test dummy, Sierra Sam, created

1950-1959

Life Expectancy:

Women 71.1 years Men 65.6 years

Average Salary: $2,992

This 1950 Ford Custom Convertible was displayed by Monte & Susanne Shelton of Portland, Oregon.

This 1951 Ford Victoria Hardtop Coupe was displayed by Mike & Rosemary Bostwick.

1952

Packard offers power brakes

This very rare 1953 Ferrari Vignale hardtop coupe was displayed by Ron Tonkin.

1955

The first McDonald's drive-in opens

America's first "Muscle Car" the Chrysler C-300

1956

The Federal Highway Act is signed, marking the beginning of work on the

interstate highway system

Power steering became commercially available

This 1956 Chrysler 300B was displayed by Sharon Lenz.

1957 Ford Thunderbird

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe

This 1957 Volkswagen Type 1 was displayed by Paul Page.

This 1959 Ford Fairlane 500 Galaxie Skyliner retractable hardtop coupe was displayed by Tom Raabe and Les Connor.

1960-1969

Life Expectancy:

Women 73.1 years Men 66.6 years

Average Salary: $4,743

1964

The Ford Mustang hit the markets

All new American cars have front seatbelts standard

This 1964 Volvo 944 was displayed by Jim Fisher Volvo.

This 1964 Datsun Bluebird displayed by Jim Fisher Volvo was one of the first Bluebirds in the Northwest. It features a 1200cc engine and full synchro 3-speed transmission.

This 1965 Pontiac Tempest GTO was displayed by Jan Weston.

This 1965 Shelby GT350 was displayed by Jerry Jaksich.

1966

Rear seat belts become standard in the United States

This 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible was displayed by John Francis.

1967

The Mercury Cougar, Chevrolet Camaro and the Pontiac Firebird join Mustang

as "pony cars"

This 1968 Plymouth Road Runner was ordered and purchased from Hayward Chrysler Plymouth in Oak Harbor, Washington, built in Los Angeles, California and delivered on April 1, 1968. Its original cost was $3,431. It has been owned by Mike and Joan Porter for over 40 years.

1969

Front headrests are mandated in the United States

This 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302 was displayed by John Francis.

This 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS was displayed by Steve Reece.

1970-1979

Life Expectancy:

Women 74.8 years Men 67.1 years

Average Salary: $7,564

This 1970 Plymouth Barracuda AAR, displayed by Frank & Shelley Fontana, features a 360ci 380hp Chrysler crate motor with 3 Holley 2bbl carburetors.

This 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 was displayed by Mike Porter.

This 1970 Pontiac Tempest GTO was displayed by Jan Weston.

This 1970 Buick Estate Wagon was displayed by Tom Raabe.

1971-1972 Honda N600

1972

A new combined lap and shoulder belt system with both a light and buzzer to remind front occupants to "buckle up" becomes standard

1973

Seatbelts become mandatory in all new cars

1974

General Motors becomes the first to offer air bags in production cars

1975

Federal Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard enacted

1976

Car makers start to switch from body-on-frame to unibody layout to lower vehicle weight for better fuel economy

Cadillac builds last American car convertible

1977 Honda Civic

1980-1989

Life Expectancy:

Women 77.6 years Men 69.9 years

Average Salary: $15,757

1983

First minivans are introduced (Dodge Caravan & Plymouth Voyager)

1984

American car companies resume building convertibles

Pioneer introduces world's first car CD player

1986

Center-mounted brake lights are mandated

(There were no 1980s cars in the display)

1990-1999

Life Expectancy:

Women 79.1 years Men 73.1 years

Average Salary: $27,810

1990

Audio books become the rage - taking a trip? Listen to a book in the car

1990-1991 Cadillac Eldorado

1992

Hummer goes on sale to the public

1995

Magellan creates first GPS-based vehicle navigation system in the US

1996

Leaded gas banned in the US

Saturn introduces the first mass produced electric car - EV1

This 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 Convertible was displayed by Kim Sayre.

1999

Honda Insight is first hybrid to hit the mass market in the US

2000-2009

Life Expectancy:

Women 80.4 years Men 75.2 years

Average Salary: $48,158

2004

Ford Escape Hybrid is the first hybrid SUV

2007

Tire pressure monitoring systems are required on all new vehicles

A total of 71.9 million new automobiles were sold worldwide

About 250 million vehicles on the road in the United States. Around the world, there were about 806 million cars and light trucks on the road, burning over 260 billion gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel.

30% of cars sold were SUVs

This 2008 Smart Fortwo was displayed by Trang Hamm of Smart Center Portland.

This 2008 Hummer H2 was displayed by Vic Alfonso Cadillac Hummer.

Exotics Gallery

Callaway

The 2009 Callaway Corvette has 580 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque, a polished CS2000 Roots supercharger with intercooler, an electronic fuel system control with high volume injectors, a Callaway Honker high flow intake system, stainless steel exhaust and a C16 hood.

Ferrari

This convertible is a 2007 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 from 0-100 in 6.8 seconds and bring it to a top speed of 196 miles per hour. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This is the new lighweight 2008 Ferrari F430 Scuderia. With a 510-horsepower 4.3-liter V8 it can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds and from 0-100 in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 198 miles per hour. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This is a 2007 Ferrari F599 GTB Fiorano, which was a new model for 2007. It is powered by a 6.0-liter 611-horsepower 5.99-liter 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 3.7 seconds and from 0-100 in 6.8 seconds. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Lamborghini

The new 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP-560-4 features a new 560-horsepower 5.2-liter V10 with all-wheel drive and a six speed transmission with optional E-Gear sequential paddle shift system. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 202 miles per hour. The base price is $200,000.

These three Gallardo LP-560-4s and the other Lamborghinis at the show were displayed by Lamborghini Portland, part of Gran Prix Imports.

The 2008 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 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera features a lightweight carbon fiber body that brings its weight down to under 3,000 pounds. With a 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 2006 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.

Lotus

This 2008 Lotus Elise SC, displayed by Lotus of Portland, features a 218 horsepower DOHC supercharged 4-cylinder engine with 156 foot-pounds of torque, weighs 2,004 pounds and will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 miles per hour with fuel economy of up to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Maserati

The 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. This 2009 example was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This 2009 Maserati GranTurismo S features a 433 horsepower 4.7-liter V8, a MC-Shift 100 millisecond gearbox and 6-piston Brembo front brake calipers. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

This Maserati Quattroporte sedan is powered by a 400 horsepower 4.2 liter aluminum V8 with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It was displayed by Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo.

Ducati

2008 Ducati Hypermotard 1100S racing bike is powered by a 95-horsepower 1,078cc, L-twin four-stroke engine. This example was displayed by MotoCorsa.

2009 Ducati Monster 1100S is powered by a 95-horsepower 1,078cc, L-twin four-stroke engine. It is similar in many ways to the Hypermotard racing bike but is intended for the street. This example was displayed by MotoCorsa.

The 2009 Ducati 848 is a high-performance sports bike, powered by a 134 horsepower 849.4cc L-twin four stroke engine. This example was displayed by MotoCorsa.

Motorcycles

Though there was no Motorcycle Gallery as part of the show this year, Polaris of Portland had a couple Victory motorcycles on display, as well as an unusual 3-wheeler displayed by SK Northwest.

The 2009 Victory Hammer is powered by a 106 cubic inch V-Twin engine producing 97 horsepower and 113 foot-pounds of torque. It starts at $18,999. This example with Polaris accessories retails for $19,848.

The 2009 Victory Vision Tour is powered by a 106 cubic inch V-Twin engine and sells for $23,199.

The 3-wheeled street-legal Can-Am Spyder Roadster from Bombardier Recreational Products starts at $15,799.

Portland Police Vehicles

The Portland Police Bureau attended the auto show this year and displayed some of their vehicles.

Representing a typical Portland Police motorcycle is this BMW R1200RT-P.

This unmarked "stealth" Dodge Charger sedan is used for traffic enforcement.

Also used for traffic enforcement is this unmarked "stealth" Ford Mustang GT. It had its hidden emergency lights on as shown in the video below.

Off-Road Vehicles

These three off-road-equipped Toyota sport utility vehicles were displayed by West Coast Auto Enthusiasts.

Toyota FJ Cruiser

1985 Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota FJ Cruiser

Alternative Vehicles

This gallery showcases alternative vehicles: highly efficient gasoline vehicles, hybrids and alternative-fueled vehicles.

The 2009 Smart Fortwo Passion represented a highly-efficient car with a conventional gasoline drivetrain. It is powered by a rear-mounted 70-horsepower 1.0-liter DOHC three-cylinder engine that delivers fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway. The price starts at $11,600.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid represents conventional hybrid vehicles. It 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.

This 2008 Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell represents new hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicles being tested in certain cities.

This 2008 Honda Civic NGV GX represents natural gas-powered vehicles. It has a large natural gas tank in the trunk. It is powered by a 113-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with an automatic transmission that delivers the gasoline equivalent of 24 miles per gallon in the city or 36 miles per gallon on the highway. Prices start at $17,760, this model retails for $25,260.

This 2009 Toyota Prius with a Hymotion Nanophosphate^TM lithium battery conversion module available from The Green Car Company that electrically supplements the hybrid drive train for up to 40 miles belongs to the State of Oregon Department of Administrative Services and represents plug-in hybrid vehicles. The Hymotion conversion allows this Prius to achieve fuel economy of over 100 miles per gallon. When the supplemental battery is depleted, the vehicle will function as a standard hybrid until recharged from standard 120-volt grid power. Since the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has determined that half of the cars in the U.S. are typically driven no more than 25 miles a day, a plug-in hybrid like this one could last a long time without needing gasoline. Most electric vehicles would be charged at night; however during the day they could be given a boost when the driver is at work, shopping or running errands, through an electric vehicle charging station like the shown next to this Prius, which is from Portland General Electric. The following table shows the fuel economy of a Prius with the Hymotion conversion for different distances and types of driving.

Commuting Distance	Measured City MPG	Measured Highway MPG
20 miles	174	117
40 miles	153	103
50 miles	124	90

Electric Vehicles

Once again, a 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 ZX40ST retails for $19,995.

The three-wheeled ZAP Xebra PK Truck can reach speeds of up 40 miles per hour and has a range of up to 40 miles per charge. 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. Payload of up to 300 lbs. The recharge time is 6-8 hours, but with a supercharger it can be as quick as 45 minutes. The Zebra PK Truck retails for $12,995.

The three-wheeled ZAP Xebra Sedan seats up to four can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and has a range of up to 25 miles on a charge and up to 40 miles per day. The recharge time is 6-8 hours, but with a supercharger it can be as quick as 45 minutes. The Xebra Sedan retails for $13,995.

Racing Car

This race car for the Western Racing Series was built by PRO-TEK Automotive and was displayed by Miles Around Automotive Entertainment. It is powered by a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Commercial Trucks

A new aspect of the auto show this year was a display of commercial trucks.

This 2009 Isuzu NPR HD 14-Foot Box Truck and 2009 Isuzu NPR HD 16-Foot Flatbed Truck are powered by 205-horsepower 5.2-liter 4-cylinder intercooled turbo-diesel engines with 441 foot-pounds of torque and 6-speed automatic transmissions. They have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 14,500 pounds, a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 20,500 pounds and a payload of up to 8,791 pounds. Isuzu NPR HD trucks are also available with a 325-horsepower General Motors Vortec 6000 V8 with sequential port fuel injection with 360 foot-pounds of torque and a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission with a payload of up to 9,411 pounds. These trucks were displayed by Rey Reece Truck and Equipment.

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR Panel LS comes standard with a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC Ecotec^® engine and a 5-speed manual transmission for a base price of $19,030. This example with a 4-speed automatic transmission, remote start and color-keyed running boards costs $21,135. It was displayed by Wentworth Chevytown.

The 2009 Chevrolet Express 2500 Work Van is powered by a 4.8L Vortec V8 engine with a 4-speed HD automatic transmission for a base price of $25,235. With options this example from Wentworth Chevytown sells for $27,115.

This 2008 Chevrolet Kodiak C4500 is powered by a Duramax Diesel and was customized by Laredo Conversions of Mansfield, Texas. It was displayed by Wentworth Chevytown.

This 2008 Dodge Sprinter 2500 Passenger Van on a 144" wheelbase is powered by a 154-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 CRD turbodiesel engine with 280 foot-pounds of torque and a 5-speed Autostick automatic transmission. Its base price is $40,140. With options including the high roof this example sells for $49,810. It was displayed by Timberline Dodge.

This 2008 Dodge Sprinter 2500 Cargo Van on a 170" wheelbase is powered by a 154-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 CRD turbodiesel engine with 280 foot-pounds of torque and a 5-speed Autostick automatic transmission. Its base price is $39,795, including the high roof which is standard with the 170" wheelbase. This example was built for Stumptown Coffee Roasters for $43,925 with options. It was displayed by Timberline Dodge.

Dodge Sprinters are available with 3 roof heights and 2 wheelbases and with an optional 254-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 gas engine with 250 foot-pounds of torque in the 2500 model. An additional extended-length body is available on the longer wheelbase for cargo vans.

These two examples of the 2008 Sterling Bullet, one as a Tow Truck and one with a Contractor Bed are powered by Cummins Turbo Diesel engines were displayed by Northside Trucks & Equipment. The Sterling Bullet is basically a rebadged Dodge Ram HD.

Another Sterling truck on display was this 2007 Sterling LT4500 Dump Truck displayed by Northside Trucks & Equipment. It seems a fire code violation slipped through the cracks.

This 2008 Hino 268 26-Foot Box Truck was displayed by Rey Reece Truck and Equipment. It is powered by a 220-horsepower 7.68-liter in-line 6-cylinder 4-cycle direct injection diesel engine with 520 foot-pounds of torque and either a 6-speed Eaton direct-drive synchromesh transmission, or a 5-speed Allison automatic transmission. The Hino 268 has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 25,950 pounds. Hino is owned by Toyota.

This 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 is powered by a 300-horsepower 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel with 610 foot-pounds of torque and a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Chassis Cab starts at $32,470; this example from Timberline Dodge with options including automatic transmission and Ultra-Clean Diesel System comes to $38,535. The addition of the contractor bed brings it to $53,378.

Aftermarket Gallery

This 2002 Ford F-250 Super Duty was displayed by The Shop on Canyon Road. It was customized largely by The Shop's previous identity: BTL Auto Sports & Off-Road.

This 2006 Subaru WRX STi was displayed by The Shop on Canyon Road.

This 2009 Honda Accord Coupe from Bob Lanphere's was displayed by The Shop on Canyon Road.

This 2004 Volkswagen R32 was displayed by The Shop on Canyon Road.

This 1978 Honda CB750F was displayed by The Shop on Canyon Road.

These three cars were displayed by Surgeline Tuning.

2009 Nissan GT-R

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

2008 Subaru Impreza

WRX STi

This Smart Fortwo was displayed by Highline Customs.

Also displayed by Highline Customs was an example of Jaguar's all-new 2009 XF sedan, which is powered by either a 300-horsepower 4.2-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 32-valve V8 or 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 while 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.

This 1932 Mack stakebed truck named "Thirty-two Grand" was part of Schnitzer Steel's display.

Schnitzer Steel also displayed this crushed car, and was holding a contest for people to guess the make model and year of the crushed car.

2009 Manufacturer Displays

Acura

Acura displayed two examples of the all new 2009 TL. The dark red example is powered by a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter aluminum-alloy 24-valve SOHC VTEC^® V6 with a 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The TL's base price is $35,700 while this example runs $39,445. The black example is a TL SH-AWD with a 305-horsepower 3.7-liter aluminum-alloy 24-valve SOHC VTEC^® V6, a 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ which can send up to 100% of the available torque to the outside rear wheel in a turn to improve cornering and agility. This one runs $42,995.

The Acura RL is powered by a 300-horsepower 3.7-liter aluminum-alloy 24-valve SOHC VTEC^® V6, with a 5-speed sequential SportShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™.

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.

Audi's new sport-version of the TT Roadster is the TTS Roadster. It is powered by a 265-horsepowerturbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with FSI^® and a 6-speed transmission with S-Tronic^® and quattro^® all-wheel-drive. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds and deliver fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. The base price is $47,500; this version with options costs $54,125.

This Audi Q7 TDI was used in the Audi Mileage Marathon. It is powered by a 221-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine with 406 ft-lbs torque. It delivers fuel economy of up to 25 miles per gallon, has a 600 mile highway range and will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.5 seconds.

BMW

The BMW 128i Convertible 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. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds with the manual transmission and in 5.5 seconds with the automatic. This example retails for $34,825. The 1 Series is also available with a 300-horsepower twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve six-cylinder engine

The BMW M3 Coupe features a carbon-fiber roof panel and is powered by 414-horsepower 4.0-liter 32-valve light alloy V8 with 295 foot-pounds or torque and either a 6-speed manual transmission or the 0-60 M DCT Drivelogic Transmission. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4.7 seconds with the manual or 4.5 seconds with the Drivelogic. This example retails for $58,675.

The all-wheel-drive BMW X5 xDrive 35d is powered by a 265-horsepower 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder diesel engine with high pressure common rail direct injection and 425 foot-pounds of torque with a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.9 seconds, delivers fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway and includes features like Auto-Leveling Adaptive Xenon Headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The base price is $52,025; this example retails for $52,425.

BMW calls the 4-door X6 xDrive 50i SUV a "Sports Activity Coupe." Its all-wheel-drive can send up to 100% of the available torque to the outside rear wheel in a turn to improve cornering and agility. It is powered by a 300-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged DOHC inline 6-cylinder engine or a 400-horsepower 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged DOHC V8. This V8 powered example with a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds, and costs $67,475 including Auto-Leveling Adaptive Xenon Headlights, Dynamic Cruise Control and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The BMW 650i Convertible 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. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds with manual transmission or in 5.7 seconds with the automatic. This example retails for $86,125 including Auto-Leveling Adaptive Xenon Headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Buick

This is Buick's new 2010 LaCrosse. It will be available in summer 2009 with a 255-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 with 211 foot-pounds of torque with a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with 261 foot-pounds of torque. It will also be available with either front-wheel-drive or intelligent all-wheel-drive, and options like real-time adaptive suspension, xenon high intensity articulating headlights, Side Blind Zone Alert and Head-Up Display.

Cadillac

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 $104,670.

Added to the CTS line for 2009, the Cadillac CTS-V is powered by a 556-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged OHV V8 with 551 foot-pounds of torque and either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds and run the quarter mile in 12 seconds at 118 miles per hour, making it the fastest production V8 sedan in the world. The price starts at $59,995.

The new Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is powered by a 2-Mode hybrid system that lets the large SUV deliver fuel economy of up to 20 miles per gallon in the city.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet's new 2010 Camaro Coupe will be available in spring 2009 in LS, LT or SS trim. The standard engine will be a 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with 273 foot-pounds or torque. The SS will have a 422-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 with 408 foot-pounds of torque and a 6-speed manual transmission. A slightly less powerful version with active cylinder management will be used for SS versions with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The V6-powered Camaro LS will start at 22,995. The V8-powered SS will start at 30,995. A convertible version is due in summer 2010.

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is powered by a supercharged 638-horsepower LS9 V8 with a 6-speed manual transmission and has a top speed of 205 miles per hour. The base price of the Corvette ZR1 is $102,450. This example with Premium Equipment Group including DVD Navigation, Bose 7-Speaker Premium Sound and custom leather-wrapped interior costs $115,000.

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. The Corvette ZO6 starts at $73,925; this example costs $81,535.

Here is an example of a more common Chevrolet Corvette Convertible which gets fuel economy of 16 miles per gallon in the city and 26miles per gallon on the highway with the manual transmission.

The retro-styled Chevrolet HHR features a FlexFuel engine that can burn E85 (85% ethenol) and delivers fuel economy of up to 32 miles per gallon.

Dodge

The Dodge Viper SRT10 coupe is powered by a 600-horsepower 8.4-liter OHV V10. A roadster version is also available.

The new Dodge Challenger SRT8 is powered by a 425-horsepower 6.1L SRT (Street & Racing Technology) HEMI^® V8 with 420 foot-pounds of torque and will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the low 5-second range. The SRT8 also includes tighter suspension, stability control and 20-inch wheels. The Challenger is based on the Charger platform with its wheelbase shortened 4 inches, and is also available with a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and a 372-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI^® V8 and either a 6-speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission. A V6 powered Charger with the 4-speed automatic transmission delivers fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway, while the SRT8 gets 14 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per gallon on the highway. The Charger SE with the V6 starts at $21,995 and the SRT8 starts at $39,995. This Limited Edition SRT8 costs $45,525.

A finalist for North American Truck of the Year, the new Dodge Ram 1500 has a 5.7-liter HEMI^® V8 with a Multi-Displacement System that delivers fuel economy of 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20miles per gallon on the highway. This one features the available RamBox^TM Cargo Management System with a cargo bed extender/divider and lighted lockable storage bins.

This 2008 Dodge Sprinter 2500 Cargo Van on a 144" wheelbase is powered by a 154-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 CRD turbodiesel with 280 foot-pounds of torque and a 5-speed Autostick transmission. The base price is $35,205; with options including the high roof this example retails for $41,020.

Ford

This is the convertible version of Ford's upcoming 2010 Mustang. Every piece of exterior sheetmetal except the roof of the couipe is new. Even the pony badge has been redesigned. Engine choices will be a 210-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 with 240 foot-pounds of torque or a 315 horsepower 4.6-liter V8 with 325 foot-pounds of torque and either a 5-speed manual or automatic. The V6 should deliver fuel economy of up to 26 miles per gallon and the V8 should accelerate the Mustang from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 5 seconds.

A new Fusion is coming from Ford in the spring of 2009. This is the new 2010 Fusion Sport. It is powered by a 175-horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed manual transmission and all wheel drive.

Also part of Ford's new Fusion line is the 2010 Fusion Hybrid, with a 155-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, a continuously variable transmission and a battery pack, it has a range of over 700 miles and can run on electricity alone at speeds of up to 47 miles per hour. Fuel economy is 41 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.

Ford's all-new F-150, illustrated by this full-size cutaway model, is the 2009 North American Truck of the Year and the 2009 Motor Trend Truck of the Year. The F-150 features three V8 engine choices, an available 6-speed automatic transmission, standard AdvanceTrac^® electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control^TM and Trailer Sway Control, a flat loadfloor without the "hump" behind seats, fuel economy of up to 21 miles per gallon and options like a tailgate step, box side steps, a bed extender and a cargo management system.

Coming in summer 2009 is the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor, with a standard 320-horsepower 5.4-liter SOHC Flex-Fuel V8 with 390 foot-pounds of torque or an optional 400-horsepower 6.2-liter SOHC V8 with 400 foot-pounds torque coming in winter 2009. Other features include triple-bypass FOX Racing Shox, an electronic locking rear differential, hill descent control, 17-inch cast aluminum wheels and 35-inch all-terrain tires, and a unique grille, front fenders, outer box panels, hood, front bumper and interior.

The Ford F-350 Super Duty Cabela's Edition includes unique two-tone paint, lockable storage in the front center floor console and under the 60/40 rear bench seat, and a number of unique interior and exterior touches.

GMC

The GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid will be available in early 2009, as two-wheel-drive & four-wheel-drive crew cab short box models. The two-mode hybrid system includes a 322-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 and two 60-kilowatt electronic motors in an electronically variable 4-speed automatic transmission. The truck can be powered by the electric motors at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour and will deliver fuel economy of up to 21 miles per gallon in the city and 22 miles per on the highway with the two-wheel-drive version or 20 miles per gallon with the four wheel drive version, but still have a 6,100-pound trailer rating when needed.

Honda

The 2009 model year is to be the last year of the Honda S2000 roadster with its high-revving 237-horsepower 2.2 liter VTEC four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission.

The Honda Civic Si Coupe features a197-horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual transmission and fuel economy of up to 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. It starts at $23,905, while this example sells for $24,575.

The Honda Civic Hybrid is an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) that delivers fuel economy of up to 40 miles per gallon in the city and 45 miles per gallon on the highway with its 110-horsepower 1.3-liter SOHC 8-valve i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, continuously variable transmission and hybrid drive. Prices start at $24,850; this example costs $25,520.

The Honda Fit was redesigned for 2009: its wheelbase is 1.9 inches longer and it is 4 inches longer overall. It is powered by a 117-horsepower 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission and delivers fuel economy of up to 35 miles per gallon. Prices start at $14,600.

Hummer

The Hummer H2 SUT is powered by a 393-horsepower 6.2-liter Vortec FlexFuel V8 and has a payload of 2200 pounds and a towing rating of 8200 pounds.

The Hummer H3T has four-wheel-drive standard and features a 5-foot cargo box. is powered by either a 239-horsepower 3.7-liter inline 5-cylinder engine with 241 foot-pounds of torque and a 5-speed manual transmission or a 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 with 320 foot-pounds of torque and a 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. The H3T has a payload of over 1,000 pounds and trailering capability of 4,400 pounds with 3.7-liter or 5,900 pounds with the 5.3-liter V8.

Hyundai

Hyundai's all-new 2010 Genesis Coupe will be available in early 2009, powered by either a 212-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged intercooled inline 4-cylinder engine or a 306-horsepower 3.8-liter V6. When using premium fuel the engines will deliver 223 horsepower and 310 horsepower respectively. Transmission choices are a standard close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC^®. Genesis Coupes with the V6, such as this one, will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under 6 seconds.

The all-new rear-wheel-drive Hyundai Genesis Sedan is the 2009 North American Car of the Year. It feaures a 290-horsepower 3.8-liter DOHC V6 or a 375-horsepower 4.6-liter DOHC V8 with 333 foot-pounds of torque that will accelerate the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds and a 6-speed SHIFTRONIC^® automatic transmission. Prices start at $33,000.

This Hyundai "Hope on Wheels" Santa Fe celebrates the 10th anniversary of Hyundai's support in the fight against pediatric cancer, and the handprints represent children who have had the disease. Every time a new Hyundai is sold in the United States, $5 is donated to Hyundai Hope on Wheels, which awards over one million dollars every year to pediatric cancer research. Since 1998, Hyundai has donated over $10 million to children's hospitals nationwide.

The Hyundai Santa Fe features a 185-horsepower 2.7-liter DOHC V6 or a 242-horsepower 3.3-liter DOHC V6, a 5-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC^® and on-demand all-wheel drive.

Infiniti

The Infiniti G37 AWD features a 330-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 with 270 ft-lbs torque and VVEL which adjusts intake valve lift and timing, a 7-speed automatic transmission (a 6-speed manual is also available), the optional Intelligent All-Wheel Drive that automatically diverts up to 50% of the power to the front wheels only when necessary, 4-Wheel Active Steer that automatically alters the steering gear ratio and rear suspension as speed increases for better handling, and Active Brake Limited Slip that can distribute torque from side to side with fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway.

2009 may be the last year for the Nissan Armada-based Infiniti QX56 4WD, which is powered by a 320-horsepower 4.6-liter V8. This example with the optional All-Mode Four-Wheel-Drive has fuel economy of 12 miles per gallon in the city and 17 miles per gallon on the highway.

Jeep

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is powered by a 205-horsepower 3.8-liter SMPI V6 with 237 foot-pounds of torque.

The Jeep Compass 4x4 Rallye Edition is powered by a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cylinder dual VVT engine with 165 foot-pounds of torque and a standard 5-speed manual transmission that delivers fuel economy of up to 28 miles per gallon on the highway. The Rallye package features body color fascia, 18-inch 5-spoke split aluminum wheels, more aerodynamic body panels and a rear hatch spoiler. The Compass is also available with a continuously variable transmission, with a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV).

Lexus

Lexus's new 2010 RX350 is powered by a 275-horsepower 3.5-liter VVT-i V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic sequential shift transmission and has available all wheel drive and a 3,500-pound towing capacity.

The 2009 Lexus IS C Convertible is available as the IS250C with a 204-horsepower 2.5-liter VVT-i V6 and a 6-speed manual transmission or as the IS350C with a 306-horsepower 3.5-liter VVT-i V6 with either the 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Both include a power retractable hardtop. The IS C is a Certified Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II).

Lincoln

The Lincoln MKS is new for 2009, featuring a 275-horsepower 3.7-liter 24-valve DOHC V6, a SelectShift^TM 6-speed automatic transmission and available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and Adaptive Cruise Control. The MKS Starts at $37,665. The base price for the MKS AWD is $40,380, while this example with options costs $47,705. A 340-horsepower twin turbocharged V6 is to be added next year.

The Lincoln MKX is powered by a 265-horsepower 3.5L DOHC Duratec V6 with a 6-speed electronic automatic transmission. It comes equipped with AdvanceTrac^® electronic stability control with Roll Stability Control^TM and is also available with all-wheel drive. Base price for this MKX AWD Limited Edition is $39,695; with options it comes to $47,525.

The Lincoln Navigator is powered by a 310-horsepower 5.4-liter Flex-Fuel V8 engine with a 6-speed electronic automatic transmission and available 4 wheel drive.

Mazda

Mazda's 2010 3 5-door debuted at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show and will be available in the first quarter of 2009. Engine choices include a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder or a 167-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. Transmissions include a 6-speed manual, 5-speed manual and 5-speed Sport automatic transmission. The 2010 Mazda 3 will deliver fuel economy of up to 33 miles per gallon on the freeway. Significant options include heated front seats, heated side mirrors with turn indicators and an Adaptive Front-lighting System with steerable Bi-Xenon auto-off headlights.

Right next to the new 2010 model was the 2009 Mazda 3 S 5-Door Sport, powered by a 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve engine with a 5-speed manual transmission it delivers fuel economy of 22 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway for $19,495.

The Mazda RX-8 is powered by a 1.3-liter RENESIS 2-rotor Wankel rotary engine that produces 232-horsepower with a 6-speed manual transmission or 212-horsepower with a six-speed sport automatic transmission.

Since Mazda's facelifted 2009 MX-5 Miata with larger grille and fog light openings wouldn't be unveiled until the Chicago Auto Show a week later, the model was represented in Portland by this 2008 Miata MX-5 Grand Touring with a Power Retractable Hard Top. The 2008 MX-5 Miata is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing that produces 166-horsepower with the 6-speed manual transmission or 158 horsepower with the available 6-speed Sport AT automatic. The 2009 produces 167 horsepower with the manual but is unchanged with the automatic.

Mercedes-Benz

The new Mercedes-Benz 2010 GLK350 4MATIC compact SUV is powered by a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 with 258 foot-pounds of torque with a 7-speed driver adaptive automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all wheel drive. The base price is $35,900 while this example with options costs $45,645.

The Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG is powered by a 518-horsepower 6.3-liter AMG 32-valve naturally-aspirated V8 with 465 foot-pounds of torque with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited at 155 miles per hour. Fuel economy is only 12 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway, but that probably isn't an issue for someone in the market for a car that starts at $135,000. This sticker on this example was $154,065.

The Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC is powered by a 382-horsepower 5.5-liter 32-valve DOHC aluminum V8 with 391 foot-pounds of torque with a 7-speed driver adaptive transmission and 4MATIC all wheel drive with a 4-wheel Electronic Traction System. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited at 130 miles per hour. Significant options include smart cruise control that maintains a safe following distance at all speeds up to 125 miles per hour, including in stop-and-go traffic and infrared night vision to extend the driver's view out to 500 feet. New features for 2009 include park-assist and blind spot alert. The base price of the S550 is $87,800 while the base price with 4MATIC is $92,350. This example retails for $102,670.

The Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC is the least expensive of the 3 Mercedes-Benz BlueTec SUVs and was a finalist for the 2009 North American Truck of the Year. It is powered by a 215-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine with 398 foot-pounds of torque with a 7-speed driver adaptive automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all wheel drive. The 5-passenger SUV delivers fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway, starting at $49,475. This example retails for $56,425 with options.

Mercury

Mercury's all-new 5-passenger 2010 Milan Hybrid features a 2.5-liter iVCT I-4 engine with Atkinson-cycle combustion, a permanent-magnet AC-synchronous electric motor, a 330-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery pack, an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT), and can run on electric power alone at up to 47 miles per hour.

Mini

The Mini John Cooper Works Clubman is named after John Newton Cooper, founder of the Cooper Car Company and holder of three Monte Carlo Rally titles and 16 Grand Prix wins. It is available as hardtop or Clubman and features a tuned 208-horsepower High Output Turbocharged, intercooled direct-injection twin-scroll 1.6-liter (DOHC) 16-valve in-line 4-cylinder aluminum alloy engine with sports exhaust and 192 foot-pounds of torque (compared to the 172 horsepower and 177 foot-pounds of the Cooper S), Dynamic Traction Control with Electronic Differential Lock Control, red Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers with 12.4-inch ventilated brake discs and 17-inch Challenge Spoke alloy wheels. The Hardtop version can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds. The base price for the hardtop is $29,200 while the Clubman starts at $31,450.

Nissan

The all-new 2009 Nissan Cube will be available in the spring of 2009. It will feature a continuously variable transmission and fuel economy of over 30 miles per gallon.

The limited-quantity 2009 Nissan GT-R is powered by a 480-horsepower 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 with 434 foot-pounds of torque with a 6-speed dual clutch transmission with paddle shifters, all-wheel drive, 15-inch Brembo disc brakes and 20-inch wheels. It will accelerate from 0-62 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 193 miles per hour and its fuel economy is 16 miles per gallon in the city and 21 miles per gallon on the highway. The GT-R starts at $71,900 while this example is $73,540 but the dealer markup brings it to $98,540. Only 1,500 will be available for the United States.

The all-new Nissan 370Z Touring is powered by a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine with 270 foot-pounds of torque and has an available SynchroRev Match 6-speed manual transmission. Its fuel economy is 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. The base price of the 370Z is $34,460 while this example retails for $37,415.

This limited edition 2008 Nissan 350Z NISMO is serial number 1486 of 1500 from the Nissan motorsports division. It features NISMO gunmetal lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels, NISMO-tuned exhaust and sport suspension and an aerodynamic body kit. The rear window carries a warning sticker reading "Do not use an automatic car wash or a high pressure car wash. the rear spoiler may be damaged." It is powered by a 306-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with a six-speed manual transmission. Its fuel economy is 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The base price is $38,680, this version with options costs $39,455.

Pontiac

A hardtop coupe version of the Pontiac Solstice will be available in early 2009. Pictured is a Solstice GXP Coupe, powered by a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec^® DOHC 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and 260 foot-pounds or torque and a five-speed transmission. The coupe features a removable lightweight roof panel can be removed by one person and has a curb weight that is only 22 pounds more than the roadster's.

The Pontiac G8 GXP will be available in early 2009. It is powered by a 415-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 with 415 foot-pounds of torque with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control or an available 6 speed manual transmission. The G8 GXP will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.6 seconds.

The Pontiac G6 GT Convertible features a retractable hardtop and is powered by either a 217-horsepower 3.5-liter OHV V6 or a 222-horsepower 3.9-liter OHV V6. This example with the 3.9L costs $34,365.

The G3, Pontiac's version of the Chevrolet Aveo, will be available in spring of 2009. It will only be available as a 4-door hatchback, powered by a 106-horsepower 1.6-liter Ecotec^® DOHC I4 with fuel economy of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. The G3 starts at $14,995.

Porsche

The 911 Turbo is Porsche's flagship sports car. Powered by a 480-horsepower turbocharged 3.6-liter DOHC horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine with aluminum-alloy block, heads and pistons, 460 ft-lbs of torque, two intercoolers a six-speed manual transmission or 5-speed Tiptronic S dual-mode automatic transmission, the all-wheel-drive 911 Turbo can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.7 seconds with the manual or 3.4 seconds with the Tiptronic and reach a top track speed of 193 miles per hour. The base price for the 911 Turbo is $128,700. With options, this Macadamia Metallic model with a manual transmission retails for $142,920. Its fuel economy is 16 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per gallon on the highway.

This is a Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet. Powered by a 385-horsepower 3.8-liter DOHC horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine with aluminum-alloy block, heads and pistons, 310 ft-lbs of torque, a six-speed manual transmission or 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission, the rear-wheel-drive 911 Carrera S Cabriolet can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.7 seconds with the manual or 4.5 seconds with the PDK and reach a top track speed of 188 miles per hour with the manual or 186 with the PDK. The base price for the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet is $96,800. This Aqua Blue Metallic example with the PDK retails for $109,465 with options. Its fuel economy is 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

This is a Porsche Cayenne Turbo S. Powered by a 550-horsepower 4.8-liter DOHC twin-turbocharged V8 engine with aluminum-alloy block, heads and pistons, 553 ft-lbs of torque, a six-speed Tiptronic S dual-mode automatic transmission, the all-wheel-drive Cayenne Turbo S can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.7 seconds and reach a top track speed of 174 miles per hour. The base price for the Cayenne Turbo S is $123,600. With options this Basalt Black Metallic model retails for $136,535. Its fuel economy is 12 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway.

Porsche's 2009 Cayman isn't available yet, so this 2008 Cayman S represented the model instead. Powered by a 295-horsepower 3.4-liter DOHC horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine with aluminum-alloy block, heads and pistons, 251 foot-pounds of torque and a 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed Tiptronic S dual-mode automatic, the rear-wheel drive Cayman S can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.1 seconds with the manual or 5.8 seconds with the Tiptronic S and reach at top track speed of 171 miles per hour with the manual or 166 miles per hour with the automatic. The 2009 Cayman S will have 320hp and 273 ft-lbs torque, a 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission instead of the 5-speed Tiptronic S, and will be able to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds with the manual, 4.8 seconds with the PDK or 4.6 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package and reach a top track speed of 172 miles per hour with the manual or 171 miles per hour with the PDK.

Saturn

The Saturn Sky Red Line roadster is powered by a 260-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and a five-speed manual transmission that will accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds with fuel economy of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway. The base price for the Sky Red Line is $30,475. This example with options retails $34,150.

No longer called the Green Line, Saturn's single-mode Vue Hybrid is powered by a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter Ecotec^® DOHC 4-cylinder engine with electric motors to assist the engine and deliver up to 25 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Prices start at $28,855. A Two-Mode Hybrid version will be available in spring of 2009 with a 252-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 with twin 55kw electric motors integrated into the electrically variable 4-speed automatic transmission to power it on electricity alone up to 30 miles per hour and accelerate it from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.3 seconds.

Scion

The Scion xB is powered by a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 4-speed sequential automatic. Prices start at $16,700.

The Scion tC coupe is powered by a 161-horsepower 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 4-speed automatic. Prices start at $17,600.

This customized Scion tC features a two-tone paint job, body-color interior highlights, a custom stereo and ground effect lighting.

Smart

The rear-wheel drive Smart Fortwo Passion Coupe is built in France by a division of Mercedes-Benz. 800,000 Smart cars have been sold in 36 countries since 1998. The nine-foot-long Fortwo is powered by a rear-mounted 70-horsepower 1.0-liter DOHC three-cylinder engine that delivers fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway. The plastic body surrounds an energy-absorbing reinforced steel structure around the passenger area. The Fortwo comes standard with front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction and stability control starting at only $11,600.

Also available is the Smart Fortwo Passion Cabriolet. It is powered by the same rear-mounted 70-horsepower 1.0-liter DOHC three-cylinder engine that delivers fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on the highway.

Subaru

This Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV is advertising Subaru's Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEVs). It is powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and gets fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway with a 5-speed manual transmission. It is also available with a 4-speed sportshift^® automatic transmission. The base price is $28,495 while this example is $31,455. Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEV) are considered the cleanest gasoline powered vehicles on the road. They have such tight pollution controls, and the burning of fuels is so complete, that in very smoggy areas, exhaust out of the tailpipe can actually be cleaner than the air outside and they meet California's most stringent tailpipe emission standard for Super Low Emission Vehicles (SULEV). The EPA endorses all Subaru PZEV vehicles as SmartWay^® certified and promotes them in their Green Vehicle Guide. In addition, Subaru Indiana Automotive (SIA) is the first US auto assembly plant to achieve zero landfill status: nothing from its manufacturing efforts goes into a landfill. In 2003, SIA was determined to be the first auto assembly plant in the US to be designated a Backyard Wildlife to Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

This Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited PZEV is powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and gets fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway with a 5-speed manual transmission. It is also available with a 4-speed sportshift^® automatic transmission. The base price is $25,195 while this example is $26,196.

Toyota

Based somewhat on the Toyota Camry, the all-new Toyota Venza is powered by a 182-horsepower 2.7-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with 182 foot-pounds of torque or a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with 246 foot-pounds of torque, features a 6-speed automatic transmission and offers all-wheel-drive. The 4-cylinder version delivers fuel economy of up to 29 miles per gallon. The Venza will accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds and can tow 3500 lbs. 19-inch wheels are standard on 4-cylinder and 20-inch wheels are standard with the V6. Options include high-beam headlights that automatically dim for oncoming traffic and a navigation system that speaks in English, French and Spanish. The Venza starts at $25,975. This one with the V6 and all-wheel-drive has a base price of $29,250 & comes to $37,213 with options.

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is powered by a 187-horsepower Hybrid Synergy Drive consisting of a 2.4-liter 16-valve VVTi 4-cylinder engine with a permanent magnet motor and electronic continuous variable transmission offering an estimated 34-miles per gallon EPA-combined rating starting at $26,150. This example retails for $32,530.

This Toyota Tundra 4x4 Double Cab TRD Rock Warrior has a 381-horsepower 5.7-liter DOHC 32-valve V8 with 401 foot-pounds of torque and a 6-speed sequential shift automatic transmission. The Toyota Racing Development Rock Warrior Package adds 17-inch TRD forged alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, offroad-tuned shocks, & styling changes. This one cost $35,402.

Volkswagen

The new Passat-based Volkswagen CC is powered by a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct fuel-injected DOHC 4-cylinder engine with 207 foot-pounds of torque or a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter VR6 with 265 ft-lbs torque and a 6-speed Tiptronic^® automatic with sport mode. The CC will go from 0 to 60 in 6.6 seconds. Prices start at 26,790. This one cost $32,680.

The Volkswagen Eos hardtop convertible features a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct fuel-injected DOHC 4-cylinder engine 207 foot-pounds of torque with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox Tiptronic^® automatic transmission with paddle shifters and fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon in the city & 31 miles per gallon on the highway with the manual or 22 miles per gallon in the city & 29 miles per gallon on the highway with Tiptronic.

The high-performance Volkswagen GTI features a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct fuel-injected DOHC 4-cylinder engine with 207 foot-pounds of torque and either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox Tiptronic^® automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Related Links:

Portland International Auto Show

Metro Portland New Car Dealers Association

Oregon Convention Center

Also See:

PORTLAND PLACES - Oregon Convention Center

PLACES: Antique Powerland

2008 Northwest Car Collectors Association Car Show & Swap Meet

2008 Unique Tin Car Show

2008 Bomber Cruise-In

2008 Rainier Days

2008 Heritage Days Car Show

2008 Cruisin' Sherwood Car Show

2008 Portland International Auto Show

2007 Unique Tin Car Show

2007 Mild to Wild OHV Show

2007 Rainier Days

2007 Heritage Days Car Show

2007 Portland International Auto Show

2006 Unique Tin Car Show

2006 Rainier Days

2006 Heritage Days Car Show

2006 Portland International Auto Show

2004 Unique Tin Car Show

2004 Heritage Days Car Show

2003 Northwest Car Collectors Car Show & Swap Meet

2002 Rainier Days

2002 Chicago Auto Show

2001 Chicago Auto Show

1997-2000 Portland International Auto Shows

1999 Heritage Days Car Show

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Questions? Comments? Critiques? Corrections? Concerns? Email me at westr@msoe.edu.