In addition to the aforementioned vehicles, there are five additional standouts in the 2009 lineup that should not go unrecognized. These models excel in performance as well as comfort and style. But, as is always the case, there is a tradeoff: efficiency.

The most efficient vehicle here gets an estimated 27 miles per gallon on the highway, while the others are barely able to crack 20 mpg. Efficiency drops considerably with the stop-and-go nature of city driving. With gas prices in the United States holding steady in the sub-$4 a gallon range, the automakers are taking something of a gamble here. The current trend among U.S. consumers suggests that fuel efficiency factors significantly into purchasing decisions. The gas-guzzling SUVs that dominated the roadways in previous years are giving way to smaller and lighter cars. These models tend to buck that trend, and whether they will truly catch on remains to be seen.

Prices listed below are the manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP). With dealer and manufacturer incentives, actual delivery costs tend to be considerably lower.


1. Muscle Mass. Dodge is “muscling” in on the high-performance market with the introduction of the Challenger. First delivered to market in 2008, the automaker is expected to make a major push with these vehicles in 2009.
 
Three models of Challenger are available in 2009. The $24,995 SE comes with a 250 horsepower, 3.5 liter V6 engine (18/25 mpg); the $34,995 R/T boasts a 370 horsepower, 5.7 liter V8 engine (16/23 mpg); and the top-of-the-line, $45,995 SRT8 cranks out 425 horsepower with its 6.1 liter V8 engine.


2. Performing Arts. One of the most exciting models of 2009 is actually new to American roadways. Nissan is finally bringing the 2009 Nissan GT-R (known in Japan as the Skyline) to the United States.

With a top speed of 195 mph, and a 0 to 60 time of about 3.2 seconds, the GT-R leaves little to be desired in terms of performance with its 480 horsepower, 3.8 liter V6 turbo engine (16/21 mpg).

Of course, high performance and stunning good looks don’t come cheap. The GT-R coupe carries a $69,850 price tag, while the GT-R Premium Coupe rings up at $71,900.


3. High Class, Low Cash. Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Company seems to know best what the American market wants in terms of performance, style, comfort, efficiency and cost. And while most automakers have to sacrifice in one or more categories to deliver in the others, Hyundai seems to have figured out the perfect balance.

For evidence, look no further than the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. This car is said to be a $60,000 sedan with a $30,000 price tag. It comes with two features that are particularly attractive in the desert: a steering wheel wrapped in a specially engineer leather that reflects UV rays and stays cool in the harsh sun and a power sunshade for the read windshield.

The Genesis will be available with a 290 horsepower, 3.8 liter V6 engine (18/27 mpg) and a 375 horsepower, 4.6 liter V8 engine (17/25 mpg). The 3.8 liter model sells for around $32,250, while the larger engine fetches $37,250.


4. Flex Appeal. Described by some as a Scion on steroids, the 2009 Ford Flex is expected to build on the company’s previous trendsetting successes. The automaker’s Explorer defined what an SUV should be; the Taurus defined the sedan. Now, the company is hoping that the Flex will define the crossover.

The crossover combines in varying degrees the desirables of an SUV—ride height, ground clearance and all-wheel drive, for example—with the characteristics of a smaller car—smoother ride, improved handling and fuel economy, for instance.

For the Flex, this means an efficient (17/24 mpg) 262 horsepower 3.5 liter, V6 Duratec engine driving a vehicle that comfortably seats up to seven and the option of all-wheel drive. The base models start at $28,295 and run $42,999 fully loaded.


5. Mother Trucker. The venerable Ford F-150 is now in its 12th generation in 2009. America’s best-selling truck returns with three cab choices, four box options and seven trims, this workhorse comes in 35 unique flavors and a number of price points, ranging from $24,199 to $54,699.

The F-150 is available with three engines, including a 248 horsepower, 4.6 liter, two-valve V8, a 292 horsepower, 4.6 liter, three-valve V8 and a 320 horsepower, 5.4 liter, three-valve Triton V8.

Fuel efficiency is not as bad as some might expect, with the trucks averaging 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Matter of fact, it is right in line with the other vehicles on this list.

By Greg Jones

Greg Jones is managing editor of Casino Connection Nevada, as well as associate editor of Global Gaming Business magazine.

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