Driven
BOXY, BUT GOOD
Square is cool in the car business, as four models shake up the status quo by thinking inside the box.
Automotive designers don’t always hug the curves. Sometimes they create cutting-edge modes of transportation that eschew sleekly flowing bodylines in favor of a more square-edged approach. Some can be downright funky looking, with distinctive styling touches that appeal to an open mindset, while most use their upright angular shapes to maximize passenger comfort and cargo room. Here’s a quick look at some of the latest models that leave the curves to the models pictured in their brochures. — Jim Gorzelany
Ford Flex
Debuting early next year, the rectangular-shaped seven-passenger Ford Flex will offer indulgences like an interior refrigerator; footrests for the second-row seats; an expansive multi-panel sunroof; a voice-activated communications and entertainment system; and seven-color programmable ambient “mood” lighting. Power will come from 3.5-liter V-6 engine that’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. A host of safety features will include a rear back-up camera. MSRP: $27,000 (est.)
Jeep Wrangler
This military-flavored SUV added extended-wheelbase, four-door Unlimited models for its recent redesign. Retaining its classic styling cues, both two- and four-door Wranglers ride on a more-rigid structure offering a smoother ride. Two separate off-road four-wheel-drive systems are offered, and buyers can specify either a soft top or a novel three-panel removable roof. Power comes from a new 202-hp,
3.8-liter V6. MSRP: $21,885
Dodge Caravan
A minivan may be the ultimate box-on-wheels, and the original minivan—the Dodge Caravan—is taking the “family room on wheels” approach for 2008.
Family-friendly features include second-row seats that pivot and face the third row. Also available is a dual-screen DVD system, onboard hard-drive media storage and Sirius Backseat TV that delivers satellite-beamed kids’ programming. MSRP: $19,500 (est.)
Scion xB
The 2008 xB takes on a more menacing appearance. A new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generates a stronger 158 hp; buyers can choose either a five-speed manual gearbox or, for the first time, a four-speed sequential-shift automatic. Standard features are plentiful and accessories—ranging from audio and wheel upgrades to a carbon-fiber engine cover—allow extensive customization. MSRP: $16,230