– V-6 versions of the 2003 Toyota 4Runner go on sale in December priced from $27,205 for the two-wheel-drive SR5 and $29,480 for the four-wheel-drive model. The V-6 is a new 4-liter aluminum engine. 4Runner models with a 4.7-liter V-8 went on sale in October starting at $28,005. Prices do not include the $510 destination charge.
– Jeep will offer a turbocharged diesel engine in the 2005 Liberty to test consumer demand in the U.S. Jeep says fuel economy from the 2.8-liter 4-cylinder diesel, a version of an engine available in Europe, will be up to 30 percent higher than gasoline engines. The EPA estimates that the 2003 Liberty averages 18 to 21 m.p.g. depending on engine and transmission and whether it has two- or four-wheel drive.
– Kia Motors America will add a midsize sedan in late 2003 based on the front-wheel-drive platform of the Hyundai XG350. Kia’s version will be larger and have distinct styling. Spokesman Kim Custer says: “You won’t even recognize that it’s the same car.” The name for the new model will be announced later.
– BMW is introducing the Z4 Children’s Vehicle, a reproduction of the new Z4 roadster that went on sale in October. A one-seat pedal version of the car, designed for kids age 3 to 5 and up to 66 pounds, is on sale at all 340 BMW dealers nationwide, priced from $189. It will be joined early next year by a battery-powered model with a top speed of 2 1/2 m.p.h. Visit www.bmwusa.com.
