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COOL CAR
2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

The Ford Escape has been thoroughly updated for 2008, reinforcing the character and appeal that have made it America's perennial best-selling small sport-utility vehicle.

Sponsored by-
Ken Grody Ford

Ken Grody Ford

2008 Auto Show
2008 NEW CARS
2008 Cars
Mazda CX-9

Starting MSRP:$29,995
Vehicle type:SUV
EPA fuel economy: city: 15-16 / hwy: 21-22
Available engines:
263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6
Available transmissions:
six-speed automatic

Zoom, zoom with more room
from Mazda

Mazda's CX-9 seven-passenger crossover SUV is designed and engineered specifically for North America. The CX-9 provides unique Mazda design and energetic performance as well as an up-market interior with class-leading space and unmatched versatility.

Like the Mazda CX-7, the CX-9 is a clean break from the traditional boxy SUVs crowding the U.S. market. Engineered with Mazda's "Soul of a Sportscar" signature, CX-9 deftly blends sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger SUV practicality.

Standing out from existing crossover SUVs that deliver SUV practicality with a passenger-car driving experience, the CX-9 is a solution not only to the modern family's complex needs but also to the enthusiast driver's desires.

"The North American market continues to play a leading role in Mazda Motor Corp.'s global future and financial health," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and chief executive officer of Mazda North America. "The CX-9 represents everything a Mazda SUV should be, offering ample power, striking appearance, fun-to-drive vitality, precision build quality and unexpected versatility.

"While other vehicles in this category focus only on what's behind the driver's seat for the family, we have engineered a unique solution that is equally as exciting for the driver."

The Mazda CX-9 targets young couples and modern families who haven't lost their desire for high-intensity leisure activities, learning experiences and social interaction. It also is ideal for couples with grown children who pursue an active lifestyle.

The CX-9 rides on one of the longest wheelbases in the segment, providing easy access to its three-row seating. There's ample room for adults in every position and sufficient cargo space to accommodate modern American families. Under the sleek exterior is an interior that can impress demanding customers with its space, utility, versatility and premium features.

To ease accommodations for all drivers, the driver's seat and steering column move quickly and easily over a long range of adjustment. The 60-40-split second row not only carries three in comfort, it also offers approximately five inches of fore-and-aft slide travel and a reclining backrest. In the 50-50-split third row, the seating position and legroom are both class-leading in numbers and comfort.

The Mazda CX-9 is designed to evoke strong pride of ownership. It strives for the sophisticated appearance of a vehicle costing two to three times as much. Its smooth and flowing silhouette, prominent wheels and tires, muscular fenders and steeply angled windshield and backlight give the CX-9 a dramatic but refined look.

Interior craftsmanship and attention to detail are visible everywhere. Soft trim is elegantly constructed of top-quality materials, and seats have an inviting yet sporty look and feel appropriate to this type of vehicle.

The dash panel houses large, clearly marked entertainment and climate controls.

At the heart of every Mazda lies a spirited engine. The CX-9 is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 with a rating of 263 horsepower. Though six-speed automatic transmissions were previously exclusive to premium-priced SUVs, the CX-9 provides that feature as standard equipment.

The Mazda CX-9's safety features are highlighted by a Roll Stability Control system that uses both body-roll rate and wheel-speed sensors to determine when corrective action is necessary.

Four-wheel disc ventilated brakes include an Anti-lock Brake System to prevent lockup during emergency use. When excessive wheel slippage is detected, a Traction Control System automatically reduces drive-line torque to help restore traction. Dynamic Stability Control automatically applies one or more brakes to minimize under- or over-steer during emergency maneuvers.

Additional protection is provided by sensor-activated side-curtain air bags that extend from the first row to the third.

CX-9 is offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.

Standard features on all trims include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control and six air bags. An optional power-operated liftgate provides one-touch access to the cargo hold.

Other available features include leather interior trim, power adjustment for front seats, automatic high-intensity headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and driver's-seat memory.


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