For decades, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been the symbol of success among doctors, bankers, lawyers and other wealthy types seeking the ultimate luxury sedan. Powerful, luxurious and built with the solidity and precision of a bank vault, the S-Class announced prestige, quality and good taste. The outgoing model, produced for the 2000-'06 model years, was especially popular. For 2007, Mercedes has set out to revamp its flagship sedan. That formidable task required a balancing act worthy of a Cirque du Soleil performer. The company's goal for the full redesign was to re-establish the S-Class as the premier vehicle in the premium luxury sedan segment without losing sight of the car's trademark style and personality. To accomplish this, Mercedes updated the car's exterior styling, added more power, increased the car's handling agility, improved the quality of the interior and went with an infusion of the latest luxury- and safety-oriented technologies.Compared to the previous model, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is visually sleeker and, more controversially, bolder thanks to its engorged wheel arches. Width is increased by 0.6 inch, height is up 1.1 inches, the wheelbase is stretched 3.2 inches and overall length is 1.7 inches greater than before. For occupants, the most significant advantage of the size increase is additional rear-seat room. On the inside, major interior changes include a new control and display layout, higher-quality materials, more comfortable front seats and an easier-to-use COMAND system.In terms of the driving experience, one will almost certainly notice the new engine in the 2007 S550. It sports a 5.5-liter, 4-valve-per-cylinder V8 that pumps out 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. These are hefty increases over the outgoing 5.0-liter V8 -- horsepower is up 82 ponies and there's 52 more lb-ft of torque on tap. For those wanting more, the twin-turbo V12 in the S600 (it's a bit more powerful than last year) and the insane 6.0-liter V12 in the S65 AMG continue to be available this year. The new S-Class also steers and handles noticeably better than the old car.New and updated features are in plentiful supply on the '07 S550, S600 and S65 AMG. One highlight is the "Distronic Plus" smart cruise control. It has the ability to slow the car down to very low speeds automatically, making it possible to drive for very long distances on the freeway without touching the pedals. Other impressive S-Class items include a Night View Assist infrared night-vision system, a rear parking camera with a dynamic-view display, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system and a panorama sunroof.By any measure of performance, luxury, safety and sheer technological prowess, the redesigned M-B flagship sets a new standard. Superior steering feel may still give the BMW 7 Series an edge for the pure driving enthusiast, while the Audi A8 continues to rival the Benz for sumptuous cabin ambience. But all things considered, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class presents a well-rounded case for luxury sedan buyers in spite of its bracing price tag. Mercedes has successfully pulled off that tricky balancing act between progress and tradition with the new S-Class.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
There are currently three trim levels available on the 2007 Mercedes-Benz S-Class luxury sedan: the S550, the V12-powered S600 and the performance-oriented S65 AMG. Notable items on the S550's standard equipment list include bi-xenon headlights, an air-spring suspension, 14-way adjustable front seats, the COMAND all-in-one control interface, a hard-drive based navigation system, hands-free cell phone communication, a Harman Kardon audio system with a 6-disc CD changer and of course, rich leather and wood trim. Major options include an Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, ventilated front seats with a massage feature, a keyless entry and start system, the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control and Night View Assist infrared night vision system. One can also order an AMG wheel-and-body trim package. The Rear Seat Package equips the car with power-adjustable, heated-and-cooled rear seats and four-zone climate control. The S600 sedan is similar but comes with almost all of the S550's optional features as standard. The S65 AMG takes the same approach but also features 20-inch lightweight AMG wheels, specific exterior styling pieces, larger and more powerful brakes and sport-tuned versions of the car's air suspension and ABC system.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2007 S550 sports a 5.5-liter V8 that makes 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. In testing, we've found that this is enough for a 6.1-second 0-60-mph time. A standard 7-speed automatic transmission routes power to the rear wheels. A pair of 12-cylinder engines are found in the two remaining S-Class models. The S600's twin-turbo V12 is of the same displacement as the V8, but provides 510 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque. For the S65 AMG, a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 develops a Herculean 604 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes says the S65 AMG can hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. On the V12s, Mercedes sticks with a 5-speed automatic, because the 7-speed unit isn't capable of handling the V12's torque output.

Safety
Since this is an all-new Benz, the latest advances in safety equipment have been incorporated. Stability control, eight airbags (including side window curtain airbags) and BrakeAssist (which automatically applies full power braking if it senses a panic stop situation) are all onboard. So is Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, a useful bit of technology that can sense an impending crash and automatically tighten up the seatbelts and reposition the power seats for maximum airbag protection.

Interior Design and Special Features
Mercedes' COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system is much easier to use than before, as there is a larger screen mounted to the right of the instruments and many controls are redundant. The only ergonomic flaw is the turn signal stalk, which is located somewhat awkwardly down low and away from the driver. Simple elegance marks the cabin decor, with high-quality materials, richly polished woods and soft leather all around. The optional Dynamic Multicontour seats have 11 air chambers that essentially allow you to mold the seat to your body. During aggressive driving the side bolsters automatically pump up and down in response to cornering forces, to better hold you in place. These seats can also provide a soothing back massage. Another interesting feature is the optional Night View Assist system. Unlike thermal (heat-sensing) systems, this one uses infrared beams to provide sharper images and light up inanimate objects that don't give off heat.

Driving Impressions
The S-Class suspension utilizes Mercedes' Airmatic System wherein four air bellows support the weight of the vehicle. Under lateral weight transfer during cornering, the outside bellows inflate to reduce body lean by as much as 40 percent. Ride and handling are what you'd expect -- and what you wouldn't. The ride is compliant and fitting for a luxury sedan, dispatching bumps and ruts with nary a shake to the cabin, while the tight handling makes the S550 feel two-thirds its size. "Nimble" may be too strong a descriptor, but considering the 2007 S-Class weighs at least 4300 pounds, it feels surprisingly agile. The steering is fairly quick and precise with a decent heft to the wheel, though we'd still give the BMW 7 Series a slight edge in road feel.

What's New
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been fully redesigned for 2007. For this revamp of the flagship luxury sedan, Mercedes focused on improving performance and handling as well as expanding the luxury envelope with new technology-oriented features such as Distronic Plus cruise control and the Night View Assist infrared night-vision system.

Pro
State-of-the-art luxury features, sport sedan performance and handling, prestige that comes with S-Class ownership.

Introduction
In the late 1990s, Mercedes-Benz was one of the first automakers to recognize America's desire for a luxury-themed SUV. The original ML, while truckish in nature and plagued by early quality problems, was a solid sales success. Last year, Mercedes introduced the second-generation M-Class, and in almost all aspects it's a better vehicle. Still a midsize luxury SUV meant for five passengers, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is now more on-road oriented thanks to a unibody structure and a revised suspension design that combine to provide improved handling and comfort. Other upgrades for the second generation include sleeker exterior styling, a higher-quality interior and new engines. For the 2007 M-Class, Mercedes-Benz has released two new trim levels. The first, the ML320 CDI, is diesel-powered. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is capable of 215 horsepower and a stout 398 pound-feet of torque and, like most diesels, provides impressive fuel mileage and range -- more than 600 miles between fill-ups is possible, says Mercedes. Buyers should be aware, however, that the ML320 CDI is not for sale in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York or Vermont due to tighter diesel emissions standards in those states. For maximum acceleration, there's the new ML63 AMG. A successor to the original ML55 AMG, the ML63 AMG features an all-new 507-hp V8 developed specifically by AMG's engineers. Impressively, this power comes about without the help of supercharging or turbocharging. Zero to 60 mph takes fewer than 5 seconds. This AMG model is also equipped with more powerful brakes and a sport-tuned version of the optional air suspension system. Though the point of fitting a 500-hp engine to a top-heavy SUV weighing 2.5 tons is lost on many driving enthusiasts, there's no denying that the ML63 AMG is impressive for what it is. It also happens to undercut the price of its closest competitor, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, by a significant margin. When judged against other SUVs in the $50,000 price range, the Mercedes faces some very competent vehicles. The Acura MDX, Audi Q7 and BMW X5 are all-new this year, and the Cayenne, Lexus RX 350 and Volkswagen Touareg continue to be solid choices, as well. Overall, we're impressed with the 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and it should make a fine choice for shoppers valuing the ML's versatility along with the traditional Mercedes traits of quality, prestige and safety. Downsides? The lack of a third-row seat is an obvious omission, but Mercedes dealers will no doubt point you to the R-Class or new GL-Class if you truly need six- or seven-passenger capacity. The only other issue that will likely give you pause is price; equipped with a fair number of options, the M can often end up being one of the more expensive vehicles in this segment.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is a midsize luxury SUV that seats five. There are four trim levels available: ML350, ML320 CDI, ML500 and ML63 AMG. The ML350 and 320 CDI are equipped similarly and come standard with 17-inch wheels, heated exterior mirrors, Tele Aid, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats, maple wood interior trim, the COMAND interface and a CD player with an auxiliary input jack. The ML500 has this equipment plus 18-inch wheels and heated front seats. The ML63 AMG features special interior and exterior styling details, as well as a sport-tuned air suspension, 20-inch wheels, stronger brakes and sport seats. For the regular MLs, a large collection of options -- most of which are bundled in packages -- are available for further customization. Highlights (depending on the trim level) include an AMG sport appearance package with 19-inch wheels, an adjustable air suspension, park assist, adaptive cruise control, adaptive xenon HID headlights, a sunroof and a power liftgate. For the interior, MB offers tri-zone climate control, deluxe multicontour front seats with heaters, leather upholstery, a premium Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, satellite radio, a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Powertrains and Performance
Each trim level has a distinct engine. The ML350 has Mercedes' corporate 3.5-liter V6; it develops 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 is found in the ML320 CDI. It provides 215 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque and has EPA fuel economy estimates of 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway. The 5.0-liter V8 in the ML500 is capable of 302 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. For the ML63 AMG, Mercedes installs a 6.3-liter V8 that makes 503 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. All models are fitted with a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Maximum tow capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Safety
Standard safety features on the 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class include traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes with brake assist, front side-impact bags and full-length head-protecting side-curtain airbags. Hill descent control and hill assist features are also included. The ML's performance in NHTSA crash testing was impressive, as the Benz posted perfect (five star) scores in both frontal- and side-impact testing. The IIHS gives the SUV a top score of "Good" for its protection of occupants in frontal-offset crashes.

Interior Design and Special Features
Large helpings of bird's eye maple wood and brushed aluminum trim help define the handsome instrument panel. Storage space is adequate, and the front console features very large cupholders. In the back, passengers have more than 39 inches of legroom to stretch out in, which is nearly 6 inches more than the RX 350 offers. Folding down the rear seat provides a maximum 72 cubic feet of cargo room.

Driving Impressions
Steering is precise, but doesn't offer much feedback and feels a little dead in the center. The brakes, however, supply a sure-footed pedal and stop this SUV quickly. Despite some body roll, the 4,788-pound, all-wheel-drive ML is a predictable and stable handler. In terms of acceleration, the ML350 possesses plenty of passing power, but feels a bit shy on torque from a stop. The new ML 320 CDI, being diesel-powered, is almost the opposite. If you want more punch off the line, spring for the V8-powered ML500 or ML63 AMG. The latter is capable of hitting 60 mph from a standstill in fewer than 5 seconds.

What's New
Two new trim levels, the ML320 CDI and the ML63 AMG, are available this year. The ML320 CDI has a diesel-fueled engine for enhanced fuel economy while the ML63 AMG is modified for performance and comes equipped with a 503-horsepower V8.

Pro
Wide range of engines, comfortable for five, sure-footed in bad weather, easy-to-use navigation system.

The GL-Class launches with a single model. The 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 450 comes with a 335-hp V8 engine similar to the one in the new S-Class sedan. Additional models will be coming, starting early in calendar year 2007 with the GL 320 CDI, which comes with a diesel engine. Later, the GL will be available with Mercedes' breakthrough BlueTec diesel powertrain. The Mercedes-Benz GL 450 ($54,900) comes with a 4.6-liter V8 engine, seven-speed automatic transmission, the 4MATIC four-wheel drive system, and the Airmatic air suspension system. It comes with seating for seven and with a third row that powers up or down at the touch of a button. Options include Distronic radar-controlled cruise control; a rear-seat entertainment system with two screens; Keyless Go, which allows the car to be started as long as the key is inside the vehicle; Parktronic, which uses sonar to detect obstacles near the vehicle; a power rear tailgate; Harman/Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system; and DVD navigation. Safety features that come standard include eight airbags, including side airbags for all four outboard first and second-row seating positions as well as side curtain airbags that protect occupants in all three rows. It comes with active front head restraints, LATCH tethers for child safety seats, and three-point safety belts for all seating positions; make sure everyone in the vehicle always wears those seat belts because they're your first line of defense in a crash. Active safety features (to help you avoid a crash) include an Electronic Stability Program, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist Plus, and four-wheel electronic traction control. Optional safety features include Parktronic and a rear-view camera, each of which can help alert the driver obstacles or people, including children, behind the vehicle.

Walkaround
The GL carries the styling cues seen in newest generation of Mercedes' mid-size M-Class (ML), but applies them to a larger package and adds some strong, perhaps even masculine touches. For example, both in front and at the rear, a metal skid plate (designed to protect underlying mechanical parts from damage when driving off pavement) is a prominent feature that underscores the GL's image of strength. The GL's face looks much like that of the ML, except for the use of round fog lamps instead of oval-shaped accessory lights. Like the ML, the hood features what Mercedes calls a pair of power domes. Seen in profile, the GL's nicely raked windshield and large, 18-inch wheels (with 19- and even 20-inch wheels available) and bulging  wheel arches help balance what is basically a tall and long vehicle. But even being tall and long, the GL doesn't look as bulky as, say, General Motor's full-size SUVs, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, and even with the squared-off rear edge of its D-pillar, the GL doesn't look as boxy as DaimlerChrysler's other full-size, three-row SUV, the Jeep Commander. Viewed from the rear, the GL presents a formidable obstacle. It's tall and wide, with a large rear hatch opening, large tail lamps and all of it sitting above a substantial skid plate bracketed on either side by large, rectangular exhaust pipes. Compared to the ML, the GL is nearly a foot longer and also an inch wider in track (the axle width including wheels), though it is less than half an inch wider overall and not quite an inch taller. Despite their similar styling, the Mercedes SUVs share only their front doors; otherwise, each has unique sheetmetal. As large as the GL may appear, it's 2 inches shorter than the R-Class touring wagon, which also has three rows of seating, though with room for only six occupants. The GL is built using unibody construction rather than the body-on-frame design that full-size pickups and SUVs traditionally use. Mercedes notes that because of this architecture, the GL-Class weighs in at anywhere from 300 pounds to 600 pounds lighter than its full-size competitors. To make sure the GL class is strong enough, 60 percent of the vehicle structure is made from special high-strength steel. Interior Features
While the GL may look sleeker than its competitors, Mercedes brags that the 2007 GL 450 offers both best-in-class interior room as well as ease of entry and exit. With all seats in their upright position, there's still 14 cubic feet of storage between the third-row seatbacks and the closed rear hatch door. A power folding feature for the third row is standard equipment on the GL with controls near the rear hatch and next to the right-side second-row passenger's seat. Power down those third-row seats, and cargo capacity expands to 43.8 cubic feet. Fold down the 60/40-split second row seats and the GL provides as  much as 83.3 cubic feet for cargo. There's also room under the cargo floor for a full-size spare tire. Standard equipment includes eight-way power front seats, 14 air conditioning outlet vents, eight cup holders, air vents, and reading lamps. The interior layout is familiar to Mercedes drivers, with either faux or real leather trim for the seats (Mercedes notes that not all luxury car buyers want real leather seating surfaces), wood trim and metal rings around gauges, air vents, and cup holders. The second-row seats provide ample legroom. When occupied by only two people, the back of the center section can be folded down as an armrest and storage tray. We climbed into the third row and found room for two adults to ride back there, each in a separate seat. The room is enhanced by foot wells for your feet so you don't sit with your knees at chest level, and even the third-row seats are thickly padded to provide comfort. Fears of claustrophobia back there evaporate quickly thanks to the standard sunroof that extends over the third row. The GL can be equipped with a 440-watt, 11-speaker harmon/kardon Logic 7 sound system, with Sirius Satellite Radio and with a DVD video entertainment system with screens mounted in the rear of both front-seat headrests and with a 6CD changer.

Driving Impressions
Driving the 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 450 doesn't feel at all like driving the typical full-size sport utility vehicle. While this is a substantially sized vehicle, it is not truck-like. The Mercedes has a much more car-like dynamic. The 335-hp V8 engine can propel the GL 450 from a standing start to 60 miles per hour in a car-like 7.4 seconds. This powerplant, with four valves per cylinder, is part of a brand new family of V8 engines from Mercedes-Benz. A standard, seven-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine operating in the sweet part of a power band that provides maximum torque from 2700 rpm all the way up to 5000. Mercedes notes that the GL is the only full-size SUV offering such a seven-speed gearbox. The 4MATIC four-wheel-drive system features front,  center and rear differentials. The sure-footed 4MATIC system is designed to maintain mobility even when only wheel has traction. In normal driving, the system distributes power equally to front and rear wheels. The system includes DSR, a sort of cruise control for regulating downhill speed, and Hill-Start Assist, which keeps the GL from rolling backward when launched after being stopped on uphill slope. 4MATIC also adjusts anti-lock brake controls to provide quicker stops on slippery and unpaved surfaces when off-roading. Airmatic is an air suspension system that uses air bladders instead of coil springs to adjust ride height by as much as three inches as well as ride firmness and body control parameters, so the driver can select from comfort and more aggressively sporty settings. The system automatically lowers the vehicle to enhance handling and aerodynamic efficiency at speeds of 77 mph or higher. Those serious about venturing far from pavement can opt for a special off-road package that includes special wheels and tires, a two-speed transfer case, locking center and rear differentials, adaptive dampening and with ground clearance height-adjustment options of as much as 12.4 inches, compared to the standard 7.9 inches of clearance. We did our driving on freeways in and out of San Francisco's airport and on roads through Napa Valley wine country. Steering feedback was consistent, brakes (14-inches in diameter on the front wheels and 13 inches on the rear) were responsive and consistently predictable and the GL 450 offered nice balanced dynamic capabilities when hustled through the curves on the narrow, hilly roads that wind through the vine-covered hillsides.

Within Mercedes-Benz's family of vehicles, prestigious coupes, $140,000 sedans and large SUVs have an almost celebrity-like status. In a dealer's showroom, they overshadow Mercedes' diminutive convertible, the SLK. But that doesn't mean the roadster doesn't have much to offer. In fact, we believe there's no better car currently in M-B's lineup for delivering affordable driving enjoyment. The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seat hardtop convertible, currently representative of the car's second generation. When the original SLK debuted in the late '90s, it was the first vehicle to truly popularize the use of a convertible top made out of steel panels rather than the more traditional soft fabric. Though bulkier and more complex, a convertible hardtop design, with its coupe-like profile and superior wind and weather protection, provides significant advantages in the top-up position. In coupe form, the rear-drive SLK's exterior styling mimics Mercedes' SLR McLaren exotic sports car. The two cars' pointed noses are meant to reference the look of modern Formula One race cars. Underneath this sporting shell are ingredients for a proper sporting roadster, including a stiff body structure, an available sport-tuned suspension and strong brakes. For power, Mercedes offers a choice of two V6s as well as a beefy V8 from AMG, Mercedes' in-house performance tuning division. These SLK models compete against vehicles like the BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z and Porsche Boxster. Thanks to its classy cabin, distinctive looks and solid performance credentials, the SLK more than holds its own in this segment. Though the SLK is inexpensive by Mercedes standards, some potential buyers will no doubt be put off by the vehicle's higher-than-typical price. Others might prefer the Z4 and Boxster's sharper handling dynamics. But for a convertible that sacrifices little in performance and excels at luxury and prestige, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is a top choice.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seat roadster with a power-retractable hardtop. Three variants are offered: SLK280, SLK350 and SLK55 AMG. Standard equipment on the SLK280 includes 16-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control and a nine-speaker CD audio system. In addition to a larger V6 engine, the SLK350 adds 17-inch wheels and larger brakes. The V8-powered SLK55 AMG is specialized for performance and comes with 18-inch wheels, high-performance tires, even larger brakes and a sport-tuned suspension. It also comes with power and heated seats with driver-side memory, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, napa leather upholstery and unique interior and exterior trim details. Many of the AMG model's extra features are optional on the SLK280 and SLK380. Other SLK options include special "designo" color-themed packages based on exterior paint color and interior trim; bi-xenon headlamps; a navigation system; a 380-watt surround-sound audio system; a glovebox-mounted CD changer; satellite radio and an Airscarf system that directs heat through vents in the head restraints.

Powertrains and Performance
The SLK280 features a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The SLK350 offers a 3.5-liter V6 good for 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Either engine can be matched with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission, the latter with steering-wheel-mounted shifter paddles. The Mercedes SLK55 AMG comes with a 5.4-liter V8 engine stuffed under the hood. It develops 355 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, but it hardly detracts from performance; expect a 0-60-mph time of just 5.1 seconds. The more common SLK350 is also respectably quick, with an acceleration time of 6.3 seconds.

Safety
Knee airbags and seat-mounted side airbags that provide head and chest protection are standard equipment. Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control and the TeleAid emergency call system are also standard.

Interior Design and Special Features
Top up, the SLK provides the security of a traditional coupe. The only distracting items are blind spots caused by the roof pillars. Lowering the fully automatic roof requires 22 seconds. When folded, it takes up space in the trunk, but there are still 6.5 cubic feet of space available for luggage. Inside the cabin, Mercedes has installed attractive, soft-touch material for the top of the dash, glovebox and doors, while plastics of similar quality fill in the rest. The climate-control layout varies depending on whether you add a navigation system, but both arrangements use easy-to-decipher dials. The soft and supportive seats remain comfortable even after several hours of driving. Keep the windows up while the top is down and there's minimal wind buffeting. If that's not enough, consider the Airscarf system that channels warm air to your neck and shoulders via dedicated registers in the headrests. It actually works quite well, and when it's combined with traditional seat heaters, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK becomes one of the most useful all-weather convertibles on the market.

Driving Impressions
Mercedes-Benz is known for a lot of things, but building true drivers' cars isn't one of them. Case in point would be the old SLK, which was more of a boulevard cutie than a canyon-carver. The 2007 SLK, however, is an exception. It admirably delivers solid performance in acceleration, braking and handling. Obviously, the AMG model has the most performance potential, and indeed it posts impressive numbers in instrumented testing. Even the 280 and 350 models are fun to drive. Only when compared directly to this segment's athletic star, the Porsche Boxster, do the SLK's slightly less tactile steering and slower handling responses become apparent.

What's New
There are no significant changes to the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster.

Pro
Stylish design, sharp handling, powerful engines, comfort and convenience of retractable hardtop.

Ever since its debut a few years back, the Infiniti FX35 has been known as a sport sedan in SUV clothing. Make that avant-garde SUV clothing. For 2007, the FX35 stands pat, as last year's refresh brought a tweaked suspension for a smoother ride, a new grille and front fascia and a number of new standard features, such as a rearview camera, leather seating, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a 300-watt Bose audio system. As with its chief luxury SUV rivals, the Acura RDX, BMW X3 and Cadillac SRX, the Infiniti FX35 is more all-wheel-drive sport sedan than trail-bashing SUV. An arched roof line, squat greenhouse and big (18-inch) wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires make the appropriate performance statement. Loosely based on the FM platform used for the previous-generation G35 sedan, the FX features an all-independent suspension, a front-midship engine placement (that allows an ideal 52:48 front-to-rear weight distribution) and, of course, a smooth and strong 275-horsepower V6. As one would expect, the 2007 Infiniti FX35 is in its element on a twisty road, where its muscular engine, buttoned-down suspension and quick reflexes make one forget they're piloting a midsize sport-utility vehicle. There is a price to be paid for having such nimble, athletic handling dynamics, however. Compared to nearly all of its rivals in the midsize luxury SUV class, the FX is down on cargo capacity and rear headroom, and doesn't offer a third-row seat.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The 2007 Infiniti FX35 is a midsize crossover SUV that comes in one well-equipped trim level. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, power front seats, a power telescoping steering wheel, a Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc CD changer, a rearview monitor, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and full power accessories. Options include a navigation system, satellite radio, Intelligent Key keyless entry and starting, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, run-flat tires, radar-based adaptive cruise control, a lane-departure warning system and Bluetooth connectivity. Some of these features are available individually while others are grouped into packages. There is also the Sport Package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels and tires, aluminum interior trim and dark chrome exterior accents.

Powertrains and Performance
A 3.5-liter V6 making a potent 275 hp and 268 pound-feet of torque powers the Infiniti FX35. A five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode is the sole gearbox, though buyers have a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.

Safety
Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, traction control and stability control are all standard, as is a rearview monitor and tire-pressure monitor. Optional is the Lane Departure Warning System (LDW) that alerts the driver to any unintended movement of the vehicle out of a designated traffic lane. In NHTSA crash tests, the 2007 Infiniti FX35 earned top ratings, scoring five (out of five) stars for its protection of occupants in both front and side impacts. In IIHS frontal-offset testing, the FX earned the top score of "Good."

Interior Design and Special Features
Although leather seating is standard, the FX35's cabin is more sporty than it is luxurious. Compared to other luxury SUVs like the SRX and X5, Infiniti's midsize sport-ute lacks a similar upscale ambience. There is plenty of space for four adults, though the sloping roof can make headroom a bit tight for taller rear passengers. Ergonomics are mostly well thought out, though some of the buttons on the console can be confusing, as there are many of similar size and shape. Rearward visibility is poor, but a rearview camera is at the ready to make backing up and parallel parking much easier. Cargo space is tight, as there are just 65 cubic feet of space compared to the 70-85 cubic feet you'll find in most midsize SUVs.

Driving Impressions
Built specifically to excel on the pavement where most owners will use it most, the 2007 Infiniti FX35 handles more like a sport sedan than an SUV. Minimal body roll, quick steering response and the powerful V6 engine all combine to provide a driving experience that few other SUVs, even those of the luxury order, can match. When driven at the upper end of its performance limits, the FX isn't as easy to control as a BMW X3, but the vast majority of drivers will find its overall road manners exceptional.

What's New
After last year's refresh, the Infiniti FX35 sees just a few changes for 2007. Among them are a seatbelt reminder and optional iPod connectivity.

Pros
Sport sedan handling, powerful V6, roomy interior for four, long list of standard features. 

Within Mercedes-Benz's family of vehicles, prestigious coupes, $140,000 sedans and large SUVs have an almost celebrity-like status. In a dealer's showroom, they overshadow Mercedes' diminutive convertible, the SLK. But that doesn't mean the roadster doesn't have much to offer. In fact, we believe there's no better car currently in M-B's lineup for delivering affordable driving enjoyment. The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seat hardtop convertible, currently representative of the car's second generation. When the original SLK debuted in the late '90s, it was the first vehicle to truly popularize the use of a convertible top made out of steel panels rather than the more traditional soft fabric. Though bulkier and more complex, a convertible hardtop design, with its coupe-like profile and superior wind and weather protection, provides significant advantages in the top-up position. In coupe form, the rear-drive SLK's exterior styling mimics Mercedes' SLR McLaren exotic sports car. The two cars' pointed noses are meant to reference the look of modern Formula One race cars. Underneath this sporting shell are ingredients for a proper sporting roadster, including a stiff body structure, an available sport-tuned suspension and strong brakes. For power, Mercedes offers a choice of two V6s as well as a beefy V8 from AMG, Mercedes' in-house performance tuning division. These SLK models compete against vehicles like the BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z and Porsche Boxster. Thanks to its classy cabin, distinctive looks and solid performance credentials, the SLK more than holds its own in this segment. Though the SLK is inexpensive by Mercedes standards, some potential buyers will no doubt be put off by the vehicle's higher-than-typical price. Others might prefer the Z4 and Boxster's sharper handling dynamics. But for a convertible that sacrifices little in performance and excels at luxury and prestige, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is a top choice.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is a two-seat roadster with a power-retractable hardtop. Three variants are offered: SLK280, SLK350 and SLK55 AMG. Standard equipment on the SLK280 includes 16-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control and a nine-speaker CD audio system. In addition to a larger V6 engine, the SLK350 adds 17-inch wheels and larger brakes. The V8-powered SLK55 AMG is specialized for performance and comes with 18-inch wheels, high-performance tires, even larger brakes and a sport-tuned suspension. It also comes with power and heated seats with driver-side memory, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, napa leather upholstery and unique interior and exterior trim details. Many of the AMG model's extra features are optional on the SLK280 and SLK380. Other SLK options include special "designo" color-themed packages based on exterior paint color and interior trim; bi-xenon headlamps; a navigation system; a 380-watt surround-sound audio system; a glovebox-mounted CD changer; satellite radio and an Airscarf system that directs heat through vents in the head restraints.

Powertrains and Performance
The SLK280 features a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The SLK350 offers a 3.5-liter V6 good for 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Either engine can be matched with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission, the latter with steering-wheel-mounted shifter paddles. The Mercedes SLK55 AMG comes with a 5.4-liter V8 engine stuffed under the hood. It develops 355 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, but it hardly detracts from performance; expect a 0-60-mph time of just 5.1 seconds. The more common SLK350 is also respectably quick, with an acceleration time of 6.3 seconds.

Safety
Knee airbags and seat-mounted side airbags that provide head and chest protection are standard equipment. Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control and the TeleAid emergency call system are also standard.

Interior Design and Special Features
Top up, the SLK provides the security of a traditional coupe. The only distracting items are blind spots caused by the roof pillars. Lowering the fully automatic roof requires 22 seconds. When folded, it takes up space in the trunk, but there are still 6.5 cubic feet of space available for luggage. Inside the cabin, Mercedes has installed attractive, soft-touch material for the top of the dash, glovebox and doors, while plastics of similar quality fill in the rest. The climate-control layout varies depending on whether you add a navigation system, but both arrangements use easy-to-decipher dials. The soft and supportive seats remain comfortable even after several hours of driving. Keep the windows up while the top is down and there's minimal wind buffeting. If that's not enough, consider the Airscarf system that channels warm air to your neck and shoulders via dedicated registers in the headrests. It actually works quite well, and when it's combined with traditional seat heaters, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK becomes one of the most useful all-weather convertibles on the market.

Driving Impressions
Mercedes-Benz is known for a lot of things, but building true drivers' cars isn't one of them. Case in point would be the old SLK, which was more of a boulevard cutie than a canyon-carver. The 2007 SLK, however, is an exception. It admirably delivers solid performance in acceleration, braking and handling. Obviously, the AMG model has the most performance potential, and indeed it posts impressive numbers in instrumented testing. Even the 280 and 350 models are fun to drive. Only when compared directly to this segment's athletic star, the Porsche Boxster, do the SLK's slightly less tactile steering and slower handling responses become apparent.

What's New
There are no significant changes to the 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class roadster.

Pro
Stylish design, sharp handling, powerful engines, comfort and convenience of retractable hardtop.

Like many other luxury-brand SUVs, the 2007 Infiniti QX56 is based on a less status-conscious vehicle, in this case the Nissan Armada. To separate the high-society QX56 from the common man's Armada, designers gave the front end a heavy chrome grille with Infiniti's strong horizontal theme and added liberal splashes of chrome to the body. Unfortunately, the QX56 inherits the same oddball form as the Armada, meaning the strange greenhouse design that looks like the melding of two dissimilar structures. Look beneath the controversial skin, however, and there's some beauty to be found. This year, the already burly 5.6-liter V8 sees a small bump in output, putting those figures at 320 horsepower and 393 pound-feet of torque. That's enough to make the 5,600-pound luxury SUV feel light on its feet, an impression confirmed by its impressive 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds. That muscle also allows a maximum towing capacity of 9,000 pounds. The QX56 also possesses handling that belies its considerable mass, making the big sport-ute easy to drive around the typical perils of suburbia. The cabin is a mixed bag, with plush leather seating, handsome wood accents and well-padded armrests boosting the luxury quotient considerably over that of the bland Armada. But some low-grade components, notably the dull gauge cluster and the hard plastic used on the doors and dash top, bring it down when compared to its more lavishly appointed competitors such as the Lexus LX 470, Mercedes GL450 and Cadillac Escalade. The luxury of space is there in spades, however, as even 6-footers can get comfortable in the second row; the third row can accommodate adults as well. In the practical sense, the 2007 Infiniti QX56 makes a convincing argument for itself with its strong performance, massive towing capacity and roomy, comfortable cabin. None of this will matter to those who don't warm up to the styling, and the Escalade and GL450 arguably provide all of that in much more attractive wrappers, and both are priced competitively with the Infiniti. Still, for those needing a capable, full-size luxury SUV with three fully usable rows of seating, the QX56 is worth strong consideration.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options
A large luxury SUV, the seven-passenger 2007 Infiniti QX56 comes in one trim level with a choice of either two- or four-wheel drive. Standard features include 18-inch chrome alloy wheels, xenon HID headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, leather seating for seven, power and heated front seats, real wood trim, a navigation system and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. Dual-zone automatic climate control, a separate rear air-conditioner, a rearview monitor, park assist, power-adjustable pedals and a power rear liftgate are also standard. The short list of options includes a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a bench seat for the second row (increasing capacity to eight), satellite radio, a sunroof and adaptive cruise control.

Powertrains and Performance
The QX56 is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 with 320 hp and 393 lb-ft of torque matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Buyers have a choice of either rear-wheel drive (2WD) or a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case. For a large SUV, the QX56 is quick, with the sprint to 60 mph taking just 7.3 seconds. Towing capacity stands at 9,000 pounds with 2WD and 8,900 with 4WD.

Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control, a tire-pressure monitor, front seat side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, a reverse park sensor and a rearview monitor are all standard on the 2007 Infiniti QX56. In NHTSA frontal-impact crash tests, the QX56 scored four stars (out of five) for the driver and five stars for the passenger.

Interior Design and Special Features
Emphasizing the luxury theme, the Infiniti QX56's cabin is bedecked in leather, thick carpeting and lustrous wood and aluminum accents. Unfortunately, some hard plastic on the dash and doors takes away a bit of the upscale ambience, as do the dull, orange-illuminated gauges that look like they were yanked from a workaday Nissan Titan pickup. On the other hand, the QX's standard rearview monitor and reverse park sensor make parallel parking this large SUV a lot easier. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, along with a removable center console and fold-flat third-row bench seat. A fold-flat second-row bench seat that increases passenger capacity to eight is optional. As big as it is, the QX56 has less maximum cargo capacity than an Escalade or Lincoln Navigator, with just over 97 cubic feet of space. The Infiniti does have more capacity than these two if you're planning to seat passengers in all three rows (20 cubic feet behind the rearmost bench), but the extended-length Escalade ESV and Navigator L offer even more room.

Driving Impressions
Around town, the 2007 Infiniti QX56 moves out briskly and effortlessly storms up freeway on-ramps to blend into fast-moving traffic. The five-speed automatic provides seamless gearchanges and steps down promptly when a burst of power is needed for quick passing. An independent suspension all around provides the well-damped ride that luxury SUV buyers expect, along with surprisingly nimble handling for a vehicle of its size. Body lean is noticeable when cornering, but it's nothing excessive -- just a reminder to the driver that in spite of the QX56's sure handling, there are still close to 3 tons worth of luxury sport-ute getting tossed around.

What's New
Apart from a small bump in output (5 horsepower and 3 pound-feet) from its V8 engine, there are no significant changes for the 2007 Infiniti QX56.

Pro
Powerful and refined V8, impressive balance of ride and handling, massive towing capacity, roomy second- and third-row seats. 

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