What’s New for Latinas to Drive in 2008?
Crossovers, Hybrids, Convertibles and Much More!

The vehicle selection for 2008 continues to push the styling, technology, and safety envelope. Check out the new cars, trucks, SUVs and more for 2008.

It’s a known fact that women influence 85 percent of household purchasing decisions. Automotive manufacturers have come to respect this by paying closer attention to detail when it comes to styling, safety, fuel economy, and performance.

The 2008 vehicle lineup (including some 2009 models) is vast, but several models stand out for their exceptional application of the features that most appeal to women. We have compiled a car guide to provide Latina car buyers with an ample selection.
 

Sport Utility Vehicles
Nissan Murano

Launched in 2003, the Murano reflected what the midsize crossover vehicle should be—a vehicle with plenty of room for cargo but with the smooth ride, handling, and appearance of a car-based SUV.

The new, 2009 model remains distinctive on the outside, with a wide grille, integrated headlights and an expansive rear glass area, but with more bells and whistles.

Push button ignition is standard on all models as well as a revised 3.5-liter V6 with 265 horsepower and an advanced Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission for even smoother gearless shifting.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, side curtain airbags, air conditioning and an AM/FM/MP3 stereo with a six-disc CD changer are standard.

Interesting available features include a foldaway cargo organizer, power return button to upright the rear seat, and the Intelligent Key.

Pricing for the Murano was not available at press time but should be close to the 2007 base price of $27,830.

Honda Pilot

Honda adds two new package options to its 2008 Honda Pilot midsize SUV—the Value and Special Edition packages.
The former becomes the new base model and adds additional features like XM Satellite Radio, an upgraded audio with a six-disc CD changer, and steering wheel mounted audio controls for a base price of $28,230.

The Special Edition adds a rear DVD entertainment package, and a moonroof to the Pilot EX trim level at a price of $32,230.
All Pilots come with ABS, vehicle stability control, side curtain airbags, and a tire pressure monitor.

Available as a two-wheel or four-wheel drive (2WD or 4WD), the base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 with variable cylinder management that saves gas by shutting off three of the engine’s six cylinders. It achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 16/22 mpg.

The 4WD models come with a more powerful 3.5-liter V6.

GMC Acadia

Recognized as a leading manufacturer of truck-based SUVs, GM continues to make inroads in the crossover SUV market, one of the fastest-growing automotive segments. Introduced last year, the GMC Acadia, a first for GMC, gives Latina car buyers a domestic midsize crossover to consider.

Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, a 3.6-liter V6 engine incorporates variable valve timing to improve performance.

Available with AWD, the Acadia front-wheel-drive (FWD) model achieves a city/highway EPA estimated fuel economy of 16/24 mpg.

It offers the convenience expected from an SUV with three rows of seating. With the second and third rows folded flat, it contains 116.9 cubic feet of cargo room.

Side curtain airbags, StabiliTrak with traction control, remote keyless entry, OnStar, an AM/FM/MP3 stereo with a CD changer and XM Satellite Radio are standard.

Pricing for the 2008 Acadia starts at $29,845.

Buick Enclave

Buick’s newest crossover SUV takes on a crowded segment with styling and fit and finish that meet the competition head on.

Latinas will appreciate the Enclave’s elegant exterior, with the oversized waterfall black chrome grille, iconic portholes, and xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps.

Equipped with a V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the Enclave achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway or16/22 mpg when equipped with AWD.

It has 18.9 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row, a segment best.

Standard features include a power liftgate, a tire pressure monitor, side curtain air bags, a rollover sensor, StabiliTrak stability control, and a one-year subscription to OnStar, the onboard emergency and information system with turn-by turn navigation.

Pricing for the 2008 Enclave starts at $32,790.

Volvo XC70

Volvo introduces the third generation of the XC70 in 2008. As expected, the sophistication of the standard and available safety technology is matched by the interior and exterior design.

All XC70s come with all-wheel drive with Instant Traction for exceptional road grip. Loaded with standard features like ABS and the next generation Whiplash Protection System, the XC70 offers interesting optional features including adaptive cruise control with collision warning and the Blind Spot Information System for changing lanes safely.

The XC70’s Scandinavian interior design of understated luxury sets any Volvo apart from other vehicles and the XC70 is no exception with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a super slim center stack. A locking cargo floor storage compartment is standard and the rear seats are split 40/20/40 for added convenience.

Pricing for the 2008 XC70 begins at $37,570.

Convertibles
Chrysler Sebring Convertible

First introduced in 1996, the Chrysler Sebring Convertible has outsold the competition for seven of the last eleven years.
The 2008 model breaks new ground in the segment with more choices, from tops to engines, to help customize each model to the Latina’s satisfaction.

Three available engines power the convertible, starting with a 2.4-liter four cylinder, with 173 horsepower and an estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 20/29 mpg.

As for the top, Latinas can choose among three—a vinyl, cloth, and for the first time, a body-color retractable hard top.
Standard safety features include ABS, front seat mounted side air bags, a tire pressure monitor, and remote keyless entry.
Creature comforts include air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel.

Available in three trim levels, pricing for the 2008 Sebring convertible starts at $26,515.

BMW 335i Convertible

The new BMW 3 Series convertibles sport new looks—even different from the 3 Series sedan and sports wagon—and a three-piece retractable hardtop that opens in just 22 seconds.
The contours of the hood as well as the design of the front air dam and headlights give the 2008 convertibles a particularly sporty look.

Available in two models, the 328i and 335i, both are powered by new inline six-cylinder engines that are more powerful and lighter than their predecessors. The 335i Convertible is powered by BMW’s first turbocharged gasoline engine in over 20 years that generates 300 horsepower.

The city/highway EPA estimated fuel economy rating for the 335i is 19/28 mpg with the manual transmission and 20/29 mpg with the six-speed automatic.

Pricing for the 2008 335i starts at $49,875.

Sedans, coupes, etc.
Volkswagen GTI

The GTI was first introduced more than 30 years ago in Europe as a sporty-but-affordable compact car. The latest incarnation, redesigned in 2006, comes in a versatile two-or four-door hatchback, and with a turbo-charger that definitely adds some pep to its step.

Mated to the standard six-speed manual transmission, the 2.0 FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine accelerates from zero-to-60 mph in 7.0 seconds and achieves an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 23/32 mpg.

For 2008, the GTI has been lowered 15 mm to increase the sporty feel, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum trim inserts with brushed metal accents, and bolstered seats with adjustable lumbar support remain standard.

Volkswagen equips the GTI with the Electronic Stabilization Program, side curtain airbags, air conditioning and an AM/FM/MP3 stereo with a six-disc CD changer and Sirius satellite radio.

Pricing for the 2008 GTI starts at $23,370.

Toyota Camry

Redesigned in 2007, the 2008 Camry reflects the changes instigated last year, with only a few changes in color selection and wood trim on the XLE model.

The five available trim levels include the Camry Hybrid that earns an EPA estimated 33/34 mpg.

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that can be matched to a five-speed manual or automatic transmission powers the base Camry. It achieves an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21/31 mpg. A 3.5-liter V6 is available.

Side curtain and a driver’s knee airbags, ABS, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player are standard.

Pricing for the 2008 Camry starts at $18,570 excluding destination charges.

Pontiac G6

Replacing the Pontiac Grand Am is the multifaceted G6. Available in three body styles and with four engines and transmissions, the G6 can be molded to fit a Latina’s needs as well as desires.

A 3.5-liter V6 with 224 horses powers the GT coupe. A four-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode is standard.

All G6 models come with ABS and traction control. Head curtain side impact air bags are standard on all models except the convertible.

Standard accouterments include highly bolstered body-hugging seats, 16-inch wheels, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player, power locks, windows, and mirrors, cruise control, air conditioning, and the theft deterrent alarm system.

The coupe comes with 17-inch wheels while the convertible and GTP performance model sit on 18-inch rims.

Pricing for the 2008 G6 coupe starts at $23,045.