2006 Future Cars, Trucks, & SUVs

2006 Aston Martin Vanquish S : With a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, courtesy of an amped-up 6.0-liter V-12 engine developing 520 horsepower, the Vanquish S has been spec'd out to deliver even greater performance, complemented by subtle suspension, steering, and brake system upgrades. "The Big V" looks meaner too, with a reshaped grille and decklid plus new wheels. Revised steering geometry provides 20-percent quicker response, and the Sports Dynamics suspension, steering, and braking package that was optional on the Vanquish is standard on the Vanquish S.

2006 Audi A3 : The Audi A3's five-door version is 3.3 inches longer and 1.2 inches wider than the overseas model it replaces, endowing it with an almost A4-size rear seat and a more vertical sport-wagonlike hatch. Audi is sending the U.S. market two high-output engines. At launch in May 2005, a 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo four will mate to a choice of six speeds, manual or dual-clutch automated manual (DSG). Then in early 2006 a 3.2-liter VR6 DSG Quattro will arrive. The 2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder turbo engine will replace the 1.8-liter 20-valve turbo in all Audi applications.

2006 Audi RS4 : The core strength of the RS4 is the 4.2-liter direct-injection V-8 that produces 414 horsepower - nearly 100 horsepower per liter. This naturally aspirated engine can rocket the RS 4 from 0-62 mph in 4.8 seconds, putting the sedan firmly in dedicated sports car territory. To help achieve this straightline performance, aluminum has been used extensively (i.e. suspension and hood), and the motorized, well-padded bucket seats has been replaced with ultra-light seats with electrically inflatable side supports. Handling has been enhanced with a revised suspension lowering ride height and widening the track. Most significantly, the RS4 is fitted with the latest Quattro system, with technology adopted from the RS 6. This special all-wheel-drive system is able to transfer a larger proportion of torque between the front and rear axles than the standard setup, making it more adjustable for cornering maneuvers. The AWD setup is augmented by Dynamic Ride Control, an electronically controlled damping system that aid stability, precision, and performance. Finally, all this tarmac dancing is done with 18-inch front and 19-inch rear rubber.