New Cars For 2001

Automakers offer safety and style for the coming year

FROM unibody construction and increased horsepower to increased towing capacity and lower fuel consumption, the new cars rolling off the assembly lines offer more features than ever. For the 2001 model year, carmakers have pulled out all of the stops to deliver what they think consumers want, and, hopefully, separate their cars from the competition.

More safety improvements --from "smart" airbags and onboard navigational systems to premium features aimed at adding a new level of quality and comfort--have been made to this year's new models.

The "big three" carmakers--Chrysler, Ford and General Motors --continue to make strides in the performance and quality of their automobiles, while foreign manufacturers have continued to cut costs by building more cars in the United States to avoid high import tariffs.

Both domestic and foreign carmakers have also added various financing options--generous incentives, various lease programs, and extended warranties--to help potential car buyers afford more ride for their dollar.

So, however, you cut it, getting into a new car may be easier than you think.

The Chrysler Sebring builds on the success of the car company's first generation of sedans with a combination of elegant non-traditional design, unconventional roominess and premium features aimed at improving performance, quietness, safety, style and overall refinement.

The Cadillac DeVille continues the proud heritage that began in the 1949 model year when the first Coupe de Ville debuted with landmark body style and a revolutionary engine. Since then the DeVille has continued to establish technological and styling milestones. It includes refinements such as rain-sense windshield wipers, tire pressure monitor and Bose audio system.

The Lincoln LS, named Motor Trend's 2000 Car of the year, adds the Lincoln Complimentary Maintenance Program for the new model year. Lincoln is the first domestic luxury manufacturer to provide routine maintenance--from oil changes to wipers to shocks--for the first three years or 36,000 miles. Amenities made standard for 2001 include all-speed traction control on the V-6 manual, a glow-in-the-dark trunk release, rear-seat lower child-safety seat tether anchors, extra power point, rear-view mirror compass and valet key.

The Chrysler P.T. Cruiser comes loaded for 2001 as it blends the retro look of a late-1930s American sedan with new-age styling cues like dual-beam flush headlights and bullet-shaped taillight lenses. It has power windows, air-conditioning, rear defroster and wiper, six-speaker AM-FM cassette and 15-inch wheels.

The Ford Taurus builds on its segment-leading, five-star safety rating and adds even more safety enhancements and features. Designed for enhanced performance during crash tests and real-world accidents, the Taurus includes dual-stage inflating air bags, front-seat safety-belt usage sensors and crash severity sensors.

The Volkswagen Jetta comes standard with daytime running lights, dual-tone horn, side-impact door beams, roof-mounted antenna and a full-size spare tire. It also includes four-speed, intermittent windshield wipers and an anti-theft alarm system.

The Volkswagen Passat enters the new model year equipped with a power outlet in the trunk, premium eight-speaker AM-FM cassette stereo, and height-adjustable and telescoping steering column. With an eye toward safety, the Passat also includes power-assisted rack-and-pinion power steering, power-assisted, front-vented disk brakes, rear solid disk brakes and anti-intrusion side-door beams.

The Saturn SC2 is the world's first three-door coupe. The new SC2 boasts reflectoroptics halogen headlights, large, wraparound taillights and foglamps. Inside the driver's cockpit area, the center console includes a 12-volt power outlet and optional CD changer, plus an engine immobilizer and a parking-brake reminder chime.

The Saturn SL2 has several design features from 10 years ago, making it the perfect mix of both past and present. From the upswept body-side styling to the halogen headlights to the large, wraparound taillights and redesigned wheel covers with touring tires, the SL2 continues the tradition Saturn began more than a decade ago.

The Oldsmobile Aurora now has two additional features--the next generation On Star system and rear shoulder seat belt. With two lighter, more efficient engines available, an improved chassis and a lighter, tighter body, the Aurora is a true road performer. It is now more responsive, more agile and more appealing to a younger, more sophisticated customer.

The Daewoo Leganza drives confidently into the new millennium with subtle refinements following its successful debut in the U.S. market last year. Blending style with high-tech European aerodynamics, the Leganza features an improved ride and handling, a larger chrome grill and restyled alloy wheels.

The Chevrolet Impala, since its introduction in 1958, has become the best-selling car nameplate in Chevrolet history. For 2000, the Impala is powered by a V-6 engine and features 4-wheel independent suspension and MacPherson struts. It can carry up to six passengers comfortably.