It's the time of year when rumors fly fast and furious, and we start to see what trucks, SUVs, and crossovers will soon be coming to dealerships. We also see what test flags manufacturers fly to gauge public (and magazine) response. Here are some of the newest vehicles seen at the bigger auto shows around the country. While some of these may not make it to showrooms, they all contain technology that you'll see in the near future.
What We've Heard
By Mark Williams
• The Hummer H3 will most likely get at least a 3.0-liter diesel, similar to the one offered overseas in the Saab 9-5.
• GMC's Envoy XUV has been killed due to lagging sales. The five-passenger SUV has a power-sliding roof, midgate, and a dual-action rear tailgate. Although popular with dog owners and furniture aficionados, the XUV is gone after the 2005 model year.
• Look for GM to make the Duramax 6600 turbodiesel and Allison 1000 five-speed transmission to fit the redesigned Suburban and Tahoe when they're revealed at the Detroit auto show in January.
• Also being shown at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit is the next Silverado. Expect a lot of interior changes and several new engines.
• The Nissan Titan will get a diesel for the 2007 model year, most likely in the 5.5-liter range.
• Some rumor-mongers mentioned International and Hyundai have had some fruitful full-size pickup-truck discussions. Maybe a Hyundai heavy-duty with an International V-6 diesel is in the works?