America’s crossover market has exploded into life in recent years, gaining new and enthusiastic recruits almost by the hour. But for those paying attention, one of the earliest exponents on the U.S. crossover block came from Japan more than a decade ago. Drumroll, please, for the Subaru Forester.

Continue -->

The seventh-generation SL will be no different in spirit from its ancestors, according to Martin Dierks, SL product manager for Mercedes-Benz. Dierks notes that more than 635,000 SLs have been sold since the first Gullwing version. The North American market accounts for more than 50 percent of worldwide SL sales, and Mercedes believes the luxury roadster segment should continue steady growth and expansion until at least 2016.

An axiom from the world of industrial design goes like this: If something looks right, it probably is. Examples are legion, from the classic Eames chair to Raymond Loewy’s Coke bottle. This saying also rings true in the world of cars. There was nothing right about the exterior design of the Pontiac Aztek. In contrast, from any angle the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 looks right. Very right.

Anyone who feels cozy in a wide-open car on a sunny winter’s day is, nine times out of ten, someone we would like to get to know. Heat blows from the dash, perhaps there is even the luxury of heated seats, the bracing wind dances around, and the clear sound of the powertrain sings from the tailpipes and echoes off the surrounding landscape.

How many vehicles can be filled with fuel for less than $20 per tank these days? Well, we know of at least one that fits this description. Click through to read about WINDING ROAD'S experience with the 2006 Smart ForTwo Brabus CDI.

Nate Luzod
Art Director