By Tom Crosby
These vehicle reviews may help you choose from the more than 350 different 2008 models. Base prices are quoted. For more information, contact AAA Carolinas Car Buying Service at 800-231-0349 or visit aaa.com, click on automotive, new car purchasing and car reviews.
 FORD TAURUS LIMITED AWD - $28,695
After three years of poor sales for Ford’s flagship Five Hundred full-size sedan, Ford says it made 500 improvements and has renamed the Five Hundred to capitalize on the name recognition of the Ford Taurus. With a bigger engine, a six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive option, our test drive handled well with optional Volvo-designed, top-notch stability control and improved suspension and sound reduction.
Taurus is now the flagship full-size sedan for Ford with excellent front and rear legroom (Ford claims its best-in-class), 60/40 fold-flat rear seats, a spacious center console and trunk. Ford markets the Taurus as the “safest large car in America” due to its top crash test scores. Interior fit and finish feels upscale.
LIKES: Space, engine, quiet, ride
DISLIKES: Power reduces mileage
BOTTOM LINE: Ford hopes the 2008 Taurus reinvigorates its legacy.
 SCION xB 5-DR - $16,600
There was no 2007 model while Toyota completely redid the xB for 2008.
It now has a more powerful engine and is longer, wider and heavier with a 11 percent plus price hike. Resembling an old-fashioned milk truck, the changes were suggested by prior owners, the Generation Y buyers Toyota targets with the iconic Scion line. While there is some lean in turns, a longer wheelbase and improved suspension provide driver confidence. Horsepower now reaches 158 (up 56 hp from the 706-pound lighter 2006 xB), cruise control is now standard and a mini-jack on the console allows iPod and portable music player hookups. Audio upgrades add MPs and WMA capability. Storage space is plentiful and gauges are in a narrow rectangular bar in the dashboard center, a modern, youthful design.
LIKES: Space, looks, price, quality
DISLIKES: Rear visibility, diminished mileage
BOTTOM LINE: Great first car for family; reliable, spacious and affordable
 INFINITI G37 JOURNEY - $35,000
This year Infiniti debuts a second-generation G coupe that matches a new, 3.7-liter engine with a sleek sporty design making the G37 a serious competitor with BMW 3 series, the Acura TL and Lexus ES 350. Built on the G35 platform, G37 comes as Coupe, Coupe Journey with optional manual paddle shifters or Coupe Sport 6MT. The 330-horsepower Journey uses an engine rated one of the ten best for 13 years by Ward’s Auto World magazine. Quick, with a satisfying engine growl, it combines with razor-sharp steering for driver precision and the lower suspension makes for a confident, powerful ride. Long coupe doors don’t have partial opening hinges, making parking more challenging. Strong safety features, an I-drive dashboard button and quality materials make the interior pleasant to occupy and use.
LIKES: Performance looks
DISLIKES: Rear head/leg room, door hinges
BOTTOM LINE: Beautiful and fast, the G37 is an enthusiast’s sport coupe.
Did You Know?
AAA’s Car Buying Service can help you locate the exact new or used vehicle you are looking for. We’ll even deliver it to your home or office! Call (800) 231-0349 today!
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