Research
2008 new and redesigned compact SUVs
2008 new models by body style
Looking for an all-new compact SUV in 2008? Here's a brief overview of all the compact SUVs that have been redesigned or are brand-new models to the market in 2008. Some of the highlights include the redesigned Mercury Mariner and the brand-new Land Rover LR2.
2008 Ford Escape
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $18,770-$25,520
In its first significant refresh since its 2001 debut, the Ford Escape compact SUV receives some styling changes, inside and out, plus a quieter cabin for 2008. The drivetrains remain the same. The Escape looks more like a Ford Explorer now, but with a plunging chrome grille in some trim levels that would be equally at home on a Volkswagen Jetta or Golf. A raised hood and higher beltline may make the SUV look tougher, but they probably don't do much for visibility.
Infiniti EX35
2008 Infiniti EX35
New for 2008
List prices: TBA
The luxury compact SUV market is a small one, and Infiniti is entering the fray with a bang. The all-new EX35 will sport the same engine as the new G35 sedan — a 3.5-liter V-6 — but with less hp, an estimated "290-plus" hp. That's quite a bit of power for a small utility vehicle, but having a power advantage over the Acura RDX and the BMW X3 immediately gives shoppers a reason to wait for the EX35 to arrive at dealerships this winter.
The engine will team with a five-speed automatic transmission in the all-wheel-drive SUV. The list of features on the EX35 is long, but a few of the niftiest toys is a "scratch shield" paint that is self-healing and can repair light scratches over time. There's also an optional Around View Monitor system that shows the driver a 360-degree representation of the vehicle and surrounding obstacles. A lane departure warning system will also be optional.
2008 Jeep Liberty
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $20,330-$26,125
One of the more interesting features in the five-seat Jeep Liberty small SUV, which was redesigned for 2008, is its optional Sky Slider movable canvas roof. That's right: canvas.
Two trim levels — Sport and Limited — are offered, and both models have a V-6 engine.
2008 Land Rover LR2
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: Starting at $33,985
Like most upscale automakers, Land Rover must choose between maintaining exclusivity with models only few can afford and chasing sales with a vehicle for the masses. And like most rivals, Land Rover chooses the latter. The five-passenger Freelander SUV arrived in 2002 priced $8,400 under Land Rover's next-cheapest offering, the Discovery. Four years later, it was discontinued.
The Freelander's belated replacement, the LR2, arrives with new looks, a more powerful engine and plenty of off-road equipment. For cash-strapped Land Rover fans, it's not a moment too soon: The British automaker's other SUVs range from $38,000 to $90,000.
The LR2 shares a 230-hp inline-six-cylinder engine with several Volvo models. Off-road ability gets a boost thanks to permanent four-wheel drive that can apportion nearly 100 percent of engine power to the front or rear wheels. A terrain response system similar to that on the larger LR3 is also included.
The LR2 competes with other entry-level luxury SUVs, including the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Hummer H3.
2008 Mazda Tribute
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $18,900-$26,270
Just as its Ford Escape brethren got a new look, the Mazda Tribute has received some styling tweaks, including a new grille and interior, plus a rear window that now looks more like the Escape's.
2008 Mercury Mariner
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $20,920-$25,570
The 2008 Mariner has a much bolder presence than the outgoing model, as this compact SUV has received its first major redesign since its launch as a 2005 model. The 2008 has new, squared-off bodywork, as well as improvements to combat road and engine noise.
The 2008 Mariner, which shares its platform with the Ford Escape, has the same four- and six-cylinder engine choices as before, and a hybrid model is still offered. A Mariner Hybrid is also available.
2008 Nissan Rogue
New for 2008
List prices: $19,250-$21,870
Nissan joins the compact crossover SUV crowd with the introduction of the 2008 Rogue. Offered in base S and uplevel SL trims, the Rogue is powered by a four-cylinder engine and is available with front- or all-wheel drive.
2008 Saturn Vue
Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $20,770-$28,770
With power players like the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the compact SUV segment is a competitive place to sell cars. Saturn's Vue SUV is the automaker's second-best-selling model, but it hasn't had the high-volume sales of its key competitors. Now in its second generation, the SUV has been completely redesigned and appears better equipped to challenge the established category leaders.
The five-seat 2008 Vue is available in base XE, uplevel XR, performance Red Line and hybrid Green Line trims. The Green Line is covered in a separate report in the Research section. Buyers get a choice of three conventional gas engines or a gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain. Front- and all-wheel-drive versions of regular models are offered; the hybrid comes only with front-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Tiguan
New for 2008
List prices: TBA
There will be three subtle variations of Volkswagen's upcoming Tiguan compact SUV to fit different buyers' off-road desires.
If you need a larger entry angle, you can buy the Tiguan Track & Field. The model has a 28-degree entry angle and a driver-selectable offroad mode. For those who just want the utility of the Tiguan for their daily commute and weekend runs to IKEA, there will also be Trend & Fun and Sport & Style trims. Of course, VW says even these street-friendly Tiguans can take less extreme trails. The Tiguan is expected to be available in the spring of 2008.
1 Comments
By KK on June 18, 2008 9:26 PM
is their other canvas roofs other than the Liberty Jeep?