In its second year taking place in November, the Los Angeles International Auto show is establishing itself as a important event for the industry. We forced ourselves to go to all the parties and fabulous events in the city of Angels. The result? Our picks for the Top 5 notable introductions from gay-friendly manufacturers.
2008 GM Hybrid Truck/SUVs
The big news from GM was the official introduction of their dual-stage hybrid system in the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado and Tahoe, GMC Yukon and the Cadillac Escalade. Packed with the latest technology and the ability to run on pure electric power, these large vehicles seat up to eight and get 21 MPG in the city – that’s better than a 4 cylinder Camry. They also maintain healthy towing capability and are available in both 2 and 4WD. The Chevrolet versions are an integral part of Chevy’s pledge to be the fuel economy solution leader and part of their “From Gas-Friendly to Gas-Free” campaign.
2009 Lincoln MKS
Lincoln introduced their new flagship sedan the MKS. Sporting the most integrated and attractive iterations of the Lincoln style language, the MKS takes it place above the MKZ and MKX in the Lincoln lineup. More than just a Ford Taurus with a nosejob, the Lincoln features unique styling, a host of standard features and will be the first vehicle to offer Ford’s new gasoline turbo direct injection engine technology less than a year after launch. With available AWD and a price tag starting at $38,000 Lincoln may be the value choice for new luxury buyers.
2009 Nissan Murano
The new Nissan Murano is a pivotal vehicle for Nissan as it has become more important to their global strategy. As a result, the latest iteration got a bit smaller dimensionally than its predecessor and from the look of the front end; it is attempting to appeal to a wider audience. While the last Murano was clearly feminine, this version could go both ways. Improvements to the interior design, quality and available features like a dual-panel sliding glass sunroof should keep the Murano on the consideration set for those looking at a luxury crossover like the Lexus RX330 at a lower price point.
2008 Subaru WRX STI
Subaru has always done things a bit differently. You know, boxer engines, quirky styling, and marketing to “the gays”. That philosophy was applied to their old WRX STI models in that their visual appeal was inversely proportionate to their ability to perform. The newest WRX STI shows a new approach to those who love to go fast – a combination of speed and beauty. Gone are the hideous wings and hood scoops and in their place is a 305 HP hot hatch that promises to appeal to a much wider audience. Available in early January 2007. Starts at $34,995.
BMW 1-Series
Legions of gay boys and girls will rejoice for two reasons: BMW will be on our gay-friendly list as of January 1, 2008 and there is a now a more affordable way to join the spinning propeller club. The 1-Series is the spiritual successor to the infamous 2002 from 40 years ago and will carry on that lineage by offering stellar performance and seating for four at a more affordable price point than the 3-series. Available as a 128 Coupe or a 135 Coupe it goes on sale in Spring 2008. Worry not, a convertible is on its way as well.
Honorable Mention – MINI Clubman
MINI showed it first in Frankfurt but the new MINI Clubman had its North American debut at Los Angeles. The Clubman offers more room and and extra door to the iconic MINI Cooper and the result is a more versatile pocket rocket. Favorite features: barn-door access to the rear cargo area and small rear door to ease ingress and egress. The Clubman goes on sale February 16th, 2008 as both a Cooper and a Cooper S model. The MINI Cooper Clubman will be offerd with a MSRP of $20,600, while the MINI Cooper S Clubman will come with a MSRP of $24,100.