Saturn Astra XR Coupe

Although the 2009 Astra is relatively new to the U.S. market, the compact hatchback first launched in Europe in 1991 and the current generation has been around since 2004. The Astra has done well in Europe, and GM (which plans to share more models between the Opel and Saturn brands) is hoping the Astra will find the same success in the States. But the endeavor hasn't been without challenges. Executives at GM admit the Belgian-made hatchback has become more expensive to produce thanks to the declining U.S. dollar. At a base price of ,545 before the destination charge, the 2009 Saturn Astra XR coupe starts at nearly ,000 more than its closest rival, the 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit coupe, which boasts a 2.5-liter inline-5 which makes 32 horsepower more than the Aura's 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine.

News Ryan Binkley: 2009 Kia Borrego V8 4WD: Function

The array of technology and gadgets inside the 2009 Kia Borrego is impressive, especially considering the spartan models of Kias past. The optional touchscreen navigation is logical and easy to use, although the voice recognition system sometimes had trouble understanding us. The 10-speaker Infinity audio system produces enjoyable sound, and the inclusion of a USB port (which also allows for manual updates of the nav system), auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio and in-dash, six-CD changer gives driver and passengers many entertainment options and keeps the Borrego competitive in the segment.
Toyota Venza V6 2WD Design/Fit and Finish

The 2009 Toyota Venza's front-end styling is "inspired by the stances of athletes in competition," according to Toyota. If you ask us, the headlights and toothy grille are uncomfortably reminiscent of a melted Ford Edge. From most other angles, though, the Venza's styling is taut and upscale — kind of like a stretched Lexus RX. Interior styling is another high point, as we think the Venza's swoopy dashboard is also distinctly Lexus-like. Materials quality is notably higher than in either the Highlander or the Camry, and we were pleased to discover that the Prius' distinctively grained soft-touch dash and wheel covering has found its way into the Venza. Our tester was a preproduction vehicle, but fit and finish was nonetheless impressive, with consistent panel gaps and no audible squeaks or rattles. (Ryan Binkley Profile - Saturday 03 June 2006)

Ryan Binkley Web : BMW X6 xDrive 35i

Sadly, we also have to wonder about the raison d'être for the 2008 BMW X6. Of course, it's wonderful to drive — it's a BMW after all, so it's fast and handles like a sport sedan. But with its relatively meager cargo capacity, inability to transport more than four and a bulky body that weighs nearly a thousand pounds more than a Caddy DTS, what's the point?

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Ford Edge Limited: Who Should Buy This Vehicle

Edgy it is not, but the 2009 Ford Edge will adequately serve families looking for a jack-of-most-trades American crossover SUV. (Sunday 08 April 2007 : Bio Ryan Binkley)


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