V-10 TDI-
The turbodiesel Touareg will return for the 2006 model year and will be sold in 45 states starting in June.
Titan Power Grows, Shrinks-
Expect to see a V-6 in the Nissan pickup as well as a diesel in 2007 or 2008.
Not a Freelander-
Land Rover will probably give the Freelander replacement a new name when it arrives in early 2007, perhaps an alphanumeric like the LR3. How about the LR2?
Hybrid GMT900 Tahoes
Tahoe, Yukon Hybrids
General Motors will produce two-mode hybrid GMT900 Tahoes and Yukons. The 2008 SUVs will use an AFM-equipped V-8, two electric motors, and a new transmission, for a 25-percent increase in fuel economy. The hybrids will have regenerative braking, engine shutoff at idle, and full-electric capability.
RV Sales Up-
The industry's sales increased in 2005, and travel trailer sales were up over 20 percent compared with 2004.
How Big Is Toyota?-
Its market value is over $200 billion, which is more than that of retail giant Wal-Mart.
Audi Q5, Q3-
A small SUV called the Q5 will be added to the lineup by 2008, and there could be an even smaller model called the Q3.
Power Block on Spike TV. Courtney Hansen
In Your Spare Time...
Looking for something to do? Check out the Power Block on Spike TV. Courtney Hansen, formerly the host of "Overhaulin'," now hosts this block of shows every Saturday and Sunday. It features news, trucks, and retrospectives on classics. And Hansen's first book, "The Garage Girl's Guide to Basic Car Ownership and Maintenance," will be in stores in August.
Diesel Support-
DaimlerChrysler will introduce new diesel models starting in fall, and BMW, Honda, and Nissan will add diesels to the lineup in the next three to four years.