DETROIT, Mich. – Neither the 2006 Ford Fusion nor the 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class are make-or-break vehicles for Ford and DaimlerChrysler. They are, however, entries in critical markets that must perform well right out of the chute. The Fusion is a handsome sedan that rides on a version of the platform that underpins the acclaimed Mazda 6, while the M-Class is all new from the ground up, better than before riding off-road while more pleasurable to drive on pavement.
Less important to the bottom line, but of interest to enthusiasts, are the 2006 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson, the latest in a string of special edition H-D Ford pickups, and the 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, a higher-horsepower version of the all-new Jetta sedan.
Automakers also unveiled upcoming production models in the guise of concept cars, such as the Acura RD-X, Audi Allroad, Ford Explorer Sport Trac, and two Saturn models that are charged with saving the beleaguered GM division. The Saturn Aura is a mid-size sedan due for 2007, and the Saturn Sky roadster finally gives the company a flagship model upon which to hang its hat.
When the Acura RDX Concept becomes a reality, it will combine the performance of a sports sedan with the utility of an SUV. The Acura RDX Concept provides a strong indication of what this new vehicle will look like.
