– Ford has priced the SVT Focus at $17,505, not including $490 for destination. Buyers can choose an Audiophile stereo system for $695, a power moonroof for $595 and a winter package, including traction control, heated front seats and an engine block heater, for $395. The SVT Focus is a performance rendition of the ZX3 hatchback, with a 170-horsepower version of the 2-liter 4-cylinder engine that puts out 130 h.p. in the standard ZX3.
– Chrysler will produce a limited-edition version of the 300M, with 18-inch tires, suspension lowered half an inch and lower-body ground effects. The 300M Special will run on the same 3.5-liter, 255-h.p. V-6 in the standard 300M. Chrysler will make 8,500 copies, which will sell for $31,940, not including $655 for destination.
– Motor Trend magazine has named the GMC Envoy its sport-utility of the year. The magazine noted that Envoy provides a comfortable ride despite being built off a truck platform, rather than a car platform used for crossover SUVs, while retaining a toughness not found in the crossovers. Judges said the closest competition came from the Jeep Liberty, which fell short on interior space and ride comfort.
