| Detroit's
selection of tow vehicles grows every year.
The
recent 2005 Detroit Auto Show was extremely
interesting, as we were treated to glimpses
of some pretty cool emerging technologies and
saw several new vehicles that should work exceptionally
well for towing. HereÕs a quick run-down
of the show highlights where RVers are concerned.
Hybrid
vs. Diesel
The battle between hybrid and clean-diesel vehicles
continues.
I have been very interested in the new Lexus
RX400 hybrid, which should be available by the
time you read this. The gas engine is the 230
horsepower V6 that we have been using with excellent
results in the Sienna Van and Lexus RX330. The
electric motor adds 40 horsepower and 130 pounds-feet
of torque without adding additional weight,
because Lexus uses the electric power to provide
the four-wheel-drive. The electric portion will
provide power for about 60 seconds at full pop,
so it will help accelerate along an on-ramp,
get you started on a steep hill or provide power
for passing. It will not help in a head wind
or to climb a very long grade. In most highway
situations, you will have V8 power with V6 economy.
Around town, however, fuel economy is equal
to that of a four cylinder Camry. The unknown
here is the continuously variable transmission
(CVT) which is untried for towing. I think we
will have to get our hands on one to try out.
 The
current crop of diesel trucks are great tow
vehicles, but they're overkill for all but the
largest fifth wheels. It looks like Mercedes
will be the first to introduce a smaller, more
efficient diesel that will work well for towing
mid-sized trailers. Available in about 18 months
will be a 3.5 Liter V6 diesel producing 270
horsepower and 378 pounds-feet of torque, combined
with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Based
on those numbers, it should deliver awesome
performance and economy. Rumor has it that there
are several other mid-size diesels waiting in
the wings for introduction over the next couple
of years.
...
Innovation In Mid-Sized Pickups
...
Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Charger
...
Mercedes M Class
...
More Gears For Lincoln Navigator
...
(Read Andy's full article in the magazine.) |
