10 vehicles that will get your motor running
Last year, Globe Auto columnist Royal Ford tested trucks and SUVs, minivans and sedans, exotics and affordables. Many miles later, he plays favorites.
Nissan Xterra
The first generation (2000-2004) had washable seats, inside nets for gear, and big metal to grip. It was Spartan yet fun. This remake is more plush (it still has compartments everywhere, including a forward-on-the-outside roof rack), and features a more rugged exterior. Used to top out at 210 horsepower, now you can call on 265 ponies from its V-6. Priced between $28,000 and $30,000. (2005 model)
Ford Fusion
For price, intent, and content, one of the best American cars in a long time. Best because it finally puts an American manufacturer in solid competition with
Pontiac Solstice
Tough choice in the small roadster group, but I'm going with Solstice over the Mazda MX-5 Miata simply because it breaks new ground -- an affordable American two-seater that's fun to drive. Futuristic look (though I still see some old Jaguar), 177 horsepower, and rear-wheel drive. Priced at around $25,000.
Hyundai Sonata
Another serious Accord/Camry challenger. Comes with not only ABS, but also traction control, and front-side and front- and rear-curtain airbags as standard features. Not even safety-conscious Honda delivers all that as standard. Its V-6 gives 235 horsepower with a $23,000 sticker price. And its larger, more luxurious sibling, the Azera, does not even touch $30,000, fully loaded.
Honda Civic
Hybrid, coupe, sedan, or hot rod Civic Si -- they all deliver a full line of Civic duty. Prices range from $15,000 to $22,000. The '06 version arrived with a new edge that might help revive flagging excitement over its exterior lines. Antilock braking system is standard, as is the cushioning lineup of front, side, and head air bags.
No car was more fun to drive than this mid-engine coupe. I tried it on highways, twisting back roads, and a racetrack. Porsche has pegged it between its Boxster line and its 911s. Handles better than either group and could certainly safely entertain far more than its 295 horsepower. Around $68,000 in this top-end form, with a cheaper base model to come.
Toyota Tacoma X-Runner
For sheer edgy design and steroid-enhanced appearance of bulging fenders, rocker panels, and protruding grille, this sub-$25,000 halo in the Tacoma lineup is a bold truck to come rolling off a production line. With 241 horsepower, 18-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile tires, sport seats, and a menacing hood scoop, it drew more attention than any truck I drove last year. (2005 model)
Audi A3 S-line
I'm still in the midst of testing this all-wheel drive, four-door hatchback, a small car from Audi (full review to come). But it's a lot roomier than it looks from the outside, has fold-down rear seats (including a ski-through box/bag chute) and is a perfect car for both performance and outdoor enthusiasts. I literally plowed snow with it while making my way home in a storm. Base version around $25,000. The hot rod S-line with V-6 and paddle shifters is $33,000.
Honda Ridgeline
Its sales have not been as strong as expected, but I still love this pickup truck as an option for people who normally don't like to drive pickups. Hauls cargo in a well-protected bed, rolls down the road with sedan-like quiet, handles corners like a sports car. All that grace owes to a unibody placed atop a ladder frame. Tight car, rigid base, smooth efficiency. It has a 255-horsepower V-6 and sells for about $30,000 or less.
BMW M5
The most exciting sedan on the market. Choose 400 horsepower or dial in 500. The side supports on the front seats reach out to grab you on either or both sides to hold in heavy cornering, its V-10 engine redlines at 8,200 r.p.m., and the automatic transmission can be shifted manually either with center-stick or paddles on the wheel. How much for so much fun? Try $80,000 to $90,000.
All vehicles shown are 2006 models, except for Nissan Xterra and Toyota Tacoma, which are 2005 models. 