The brand new 2009 MINI Cooper Clubman, based on a regular Cooper model, is a fun-to-drive vehicle, with responsive handling and best fuel economy. This two-door, four-seater hatchback, available in base Cooper and Cooper S trims, has a few new options like roof rails and a rear roof spoiler for 2009. A new John Cooper Works version is also available. It is peppy, uniquely styled, space-efficient, and even practical.

 

Power and performance

 

The base Cooper Clubman is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 rated at 118 hp and 114 pound-feet of torque. The Cooper S packs a turbocharged version of the base Cooper's four-cylinder that pumps out a robust 172 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The John Cooper Works has a massive 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque (207 lb-ft with overboost). A six-speed manual transmission is standard on regular Cooper and the Cooper S while a six-speed automatic with manual shift control is optional. The John Cooper Works can only be had with the six-speed manual.

 

With the manual transmission, the base Clubman delivers 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined. The S and the John Cooper Works versions are rated at 26/34/29 mpg. Opting for the automatic affects the base and S versions' mileage by 3 combined mpg, according to the EPA.

 

Body and style

 

The base Cooper runs on 15-inch alloy wheels and comes with full power accessories, air-conditioning and smooth leatherette upholstery. It has a multicolor mood lighting, a tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.

 

The Cooper S features a more powerful engine along with 16-inch wheels with run-flat tires, firmer suspension tuning and sport seats. The new John Cooper Works edition comes with more power, dual exhausts and runs on 17-inch wheels. Brembo brakes and a sophisticated limited-slip differential that MINI calls "electronic differential lock control" are a few other key features of the John Cooper Works.

 

MINI offers customers an extensive list of customization options. Different wheel designs, body styling tweaks including a roof spoiler, roof rails, a sport-tuned suspension, a limited-slip differential, a dual-pane sunroof, xenon headlights, cruise control and rear parking assist are available.

 

A comfortable automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a multifunction steering wheel, Bluetooth, keyless ignition, a navigation system, HD radio, satellite radio, multiple color schemes and trim options, iPod connectivity and an upgraded 10-speaker sound system are among the key interior options.

 

Safety features

 

The 2009 MINI Cooper Clubman has a number of standard safety features like the full-length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, and stability control.

 

 

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) introduced the Mazda Tribute Hybrid-Electric Vehicle (HEV) for the 2008 model year showing its commitment to improving the world's air quality. The Tribute HEV is the latest hybrid vehicle to join the Mazda lineup. It combines well-crafted elegance of the Tribute with the energy efficiency of an environmentally friendly, gas-electric hybrid engine. The 2009 Tribute HEV is being made in a production run of about 300 vehicles and sold in select areas of California.

 

Unique feature

 

The 2009 Mazda Tribute Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) continues Mazda's commitment to environmental responsibility with minimal changes and it has one unique feature - it can run 100 percent on electric energy. Sold in only limited editions in only California, it carries some core changes in 2009.

 

Its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine which offers improved mileage and performance is new for 2009. The new damping system cuts noise while the braking has been made more efficient. The model also gets some additional standard equipment.

 

Hybrid power and technology

 

The Tribute Hybrid derives power from the modified MZR 2.5-liter gasoline engine which has been optimized to run on the Atkinson combustion cycle. The Atkinson cycle modifies the timing of the closing of the valves, letting the engine realize more efficiency. Additional power is provided by a permanent magnet AC synchronous electric motor at low speeds or in low-load situations. Once the Tribute HEV reaches speeds over 25 mph, or if extra power is needed, the gasoline engine starts smoothly to provide it with the required power and efficiency. It offers an incredible mileage of up to 31 highway/34 city MPG with the FWD model and 27 highway/29 city with the 4WD model.

 

Exterior, interior and safety

 

A bold, aggressive exterior and a well-appointed interior mark the 2009 Mazda Tribute Hybrid. It comprises great features such as a premium entertainment system and innovative storage, along with the latest safety features such as Tire-Pressure Monitoring System. Safety is a priority. The all-steel unibody construction is very rigid and also enormously strong. The crumple zones and 'Triple H' construction are designed to absorb and redirect energy away from the passenger cabin.

 

MKX is Lincoln’s brand new luxury sedan. A blend of modern design and advanced technology, the all new 2009 Lincoln MKS is luxurious package that includes a number of new technologies like the Sync multimedia integration system, radar-based cruise control, Sirius Travel Link and a THX entertainment system. It is designed to help fuel Lincoln's growth by attracting new customers. It offers a complete package featuring a striking exterior design, dynamic performance, advanced safety features and a host of amenities not found on other luxury sedans. It is available in FWD and AWD configurations.

 

Power and Performance

 

The 2009 Lincoln MKS comes with 3.7-liter V-6 engine that churns out 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift that delivers smoother shifts, better fuel economy, acceleration and the option to manually select gears. The fuel mileage (using regular unleaded) is in the range of 17-highway and 24-city. Front-wheel drive system is standard while all-wheel drive system is available optional.

 

Build and Style

 

Lincoln has made sure that its new MKS does not fall short on technology and style, by offering a host of advanced features that give it competitive edge in an increasingly tech-savvy market segment. A double-wing grille marks the front of the car. The adaptive HID headlamps integrate into the grille for a contiguous graphical shape. Along with other features, it offers a host of advanced features like SYNC Bluetooth-enabled wireless communication system, Adaptive Cruse Control (ACC), keyless entry and engine start system. Strong shoulders, dramatic C-pillars, clean body sides, a tall rear deck and large wheels and tires give the Lincoln MKS a confident stance. The Adaptive Cruise Control, take your foot off the accelerator pedal and MKS literally takes over. Radar maintains one of three preset gaps between MKS and the vehicle in front of it. Come too close and sensors make the system slow down to the distance you’ve set. Once that gap widens, MK S returns to its preset speed.

 

Safety Features

 

In terms of safety, the MKS keeps up with the advanced technology. Six air bags, including side curtain bags, protect everyone in the car. An Occupant Classification System senses the size of a front seat occupant to determine air bag deployment strength. Adaptive Collapsible Steering Column varies in collapsibility depending on the size and belted status of the driver. Front-seat side airbags offer an extra measure of chest protection for the driver and front passenger. Apart from other safety features, ABS, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, Traction Control and stability control are standard in the car.

 

Plenty of features, space, comfort, and quality - all at a highly affordable price. Welcome the all new 2009 Kia Rondo, a fun-to-drive mini-van like functional wagon. A number of sought-after attributes including a choice of four-cylinder or V6 power, an amazingly versatile and high-quality interior and many standard and optional features have made the Rondo a name to reckon with. It is available in the Base, LX, and EX. Five seats are standard in the base while a third row is optional in the LX and standard in the up level EX.

 

Variety is the key

 

The Rondo steers its way towards the top position in the crowded market with an enviable ease. Kia’s fame plus innovative comfort and convenience features have made it a strong contender in its class. The Rondo was introduced to US just two years and it has already has a huge fan following.

 

The LX and LX V6 features 16-inch steel wheels with covers; body-colored exterior door handles; body-colored side moldings; black front grille crossbars; auto-off projection headlights; dual power remote black mirrors; and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels; chrome exterior door handles; chrome side moldings; chrome front grille crossbars; front fog lights; and dual power heated body-colored mirrors are standard on the EX and EX V6 trims.

 

The interior of the 2009 Rondo consists of 60/40 multi-fold second row seats; four-way manual passenger's seat; adjustable headrests for all rows; AM/FM/CD/MP3/SIRIUS audio system with front tweeters; USB auxiliary input jack; air conditioning; power windows; power door locks; cruise control with steering wheel mounted control buttons; tilt steering column; and center console with armrest and dual storage as standard. The 50/50 fold flat third row seats (includes second row fore/aft slide function), leather-wrapped steering wheel/gearshift knob, heated front seats, and six-way manual driver's seat are standard on the EX and EX V6 trims.

 

The Plus Package with alloy wheels, Michelin tires, floor mats, and heated seats and the Premium Package with power tilt/sliding sunroof and the Infinity AM/FM/MP3/SIRIUS 315-Watt digital audio system with an in-dash 6-CD changer and navigation are the available packages.

 

Upgraded engines and performance

 

The Rondo’s engines have been upgraded for 2009. The standard 2.4L four cylinder engine now generates 175 horsepower (A four-speed automatic is the only transmission available) and delivers 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined while the optional 2.7L V6 that churns out a little bit more -192 horsepower is rated at 18/26/21 mpg (A five-speed automatic is standard).

 

Safety is priority

 

Kia has given high priority to the safety. The 2009 Kia Rondo comes with a long list of standard safety features that includes important aspects such as six airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.

 

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions; energy-absorbing steering column; frontal active headrests; front active headrests; front seat-belt pre-tensioners with force limiters; lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH); airbag and seat-belt Latch sensors; and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are also standard.

 

The 2009 Kia Rondo has received a five-star safety rating in frontal-impact tests from the US government.

 

Hyundai’s award winning small sedan Elantra enters into 2009 with the convenience of Hyundai’s USB/iPod auxiliary inputs, new audio system with larger display and improved XM Satellite Radio reception and enhanced suspensions providing an improved ride and handling.

 

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra is available in two distinctive trims GLS and SE. The GLS gets an enhanced suspension and steering tuning and the sporty SE delivers a even sportier, dynamic and agile driving experience with significantly firmer suspension settings and more responsive steering resulting in a more dynamic and agile driving experience.

 

Power and performance

 

A surprisingly responsive and fuel efficient 138 hp 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine powers the 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The trims can be equipped with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The EPA estimated fuel economy with automatic transmission is 25/33 city/highway mpg. With manual transmission the mileage drops by 1 mpg.

 

Body and styling

 

The Elantra GLS has a wide array of sought-after features for an entry model. The list of standard features includes remote keyless entry with alarm and trunk release, variable intermittent windshield wipers, power heated mirrors, power door locks, power windows, multiple storage areas, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, tachometer, tinted windows, two 12V outlets and tilt steering wheel.

 

The Popular Equipment Package adds air conditioning, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with tweeters and in-glass antenna, USB/iPod auxiliary inputs, windshield shade band, fog lights, cruise control, and dual front illuminated vanity mirrors with sunvisor extensions. A power sunroof also is an available option.

 

The sport-oriented SE adds all the equipment in the GLS Popular Equipment Package plus ESC with Traction Control and Brake Assist, 16-inch alloy wheels, leather shift knob, telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel audio controls and trip computer. The SE Premium Package adds a power sunroof and heated front seats. The SE Premium Plus Leather Package includes everything in the Premium Package plus leather seating surfaces. In addition to the available gray two-tone, the SE is also available in a sporty monotone black interior.

 

Safety features

 

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra features six airbags, ABS, 4-wheel disc brakes, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), active front head restraints and adjustable head restraints for all seating positions. The Electronic stability control is standard on the SE.

 

The Elantra has also received a five-star frontal and four-star side crash rating in the compact passenger car segment from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and earned a “Good” rating in the IIHS’s frontal offset test, the Institute’s highest rating.

 

The all-new Hyundai Elantra lineup comes with the Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. The coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. The buyers also receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit), which includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of this coverage.

 

Hummer extends the H3 lineup for 2009 with H3T, a functional and capable mid-size pickup truck. The 2009 Hummer H3T is available as a four-door five-passenger crew cab with a five-foot-long bed offering extreme off-road capability and a wide array of personalization accessories. It is known for its serious off-road ability, smooth ride on pavement, rugged styling, simple cabin controls, and above all comfortable seats.

 

Power and Performance

 

The 2009 Hummer H3T is in two trims – the base and the more powerful Alpha. Two engine types are available: the standard 239-horsepower Vortec 3.7-liter inline-5 cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic. The towing capacity stands at 4,400 pounds when properly equipped, and the EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 14 mpg in city and 18 mpg on highways with either transmission.

 

The Hummer H3T Alpha is fitted with a powerful 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V-8 power plant mated to an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. It can tow up to 5,900 pounds and has a full-time four-wheel-drive system. The Alpha delivers 13/14 city/highway mpg.

 

Build and Styling

 

The 2009 Hummer H3T comes with a long list of comfort and convenience features such as integrated bedliner with built-in storage; air conditioning; skid shields; easily removable tailgate; 32-inch all-terrain tires on 16-inch steel wheels; a low roofline; seven-slot grille; a full-size spare tire; remote keyless entry; high beltline; power locks; power windows; a 60/40-split rear bench seat; hands-free Bluetooth connectivity; an AM/FM radio with CD player; and XM Satellite Radio with three months of trial service.

 

The optional features include a premium Monsoon audio system; a turn-by-turn navigation system; and Hummer’s rear vision system with a camera. The optional Off-Road Adventure package is meant for aggressive off-road performance.

 

Safety Features

 

The list of standard safety devices on the 2009 Hummer H3T include hill start assist; 4-wheel anti-lock brakes; dual frontal airbags and head curtain side-impact airbags; traction control; StabiliTrak stability control; OnStar service for the first year; tire pressure monitoring; and LATCH rear child seat anchors.

 

The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500 HD is a full-size, heavy duty; 'one-ton' pickup truck built for the toughest of uses, available in regular cab, extended cab and crew cab body styles.

The Sierra 3500 HD is known for its towing, hauling capacities, smooth ride, respectable build, materials quality, accurate steering, and pleasant seats. For 2009, the GMC Sierra 3500HD gets the latest version of OnStar which includes turn-by-turn navigation. Bluetooth phone connectivity is also offered, and the optional navigation system comes with an available real-time traffic feature. A backup camera is optional on extended and crew cabs.

The Ford F-350 is the Sierra 3500HD's nearest competitor.

Power and Performance

The regular cab, extended cab and the crew cab models are available with a standard two-wheel-drive configuration. The regular cabs have base Work Truck or midlevel SLE trims. The extended and crew cabs are available in premium SLT form. The SLE trims come in SLE1 and SLE2 trims.

A 353-horsepower, 6.0-liter, V-8 engine is standard. The engine is attached to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Duramax 6.6-liter, turbo-diesel, V-8 engine gives 365 horsepower is an option available. This engine has been mated to a heavy-duty Allison six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2009 GMC Sierra 3500 HD can haul up to 5,309 pounds and tow up to 13,000 pounds. The Work Truck trim, with a four-wheel-drive (4WD), has a floor-mounted select or transfer case, while other 4WD trims are given AutoTrac. The mileage is just 15 in city and 20 mpg on highways.

Body and Styling

A refined heavy duty vehicle, 2009 GMC Sierra 3500 HD comes with quality interior with simple-to-use controls. Three power points, lots of storage cubbies and box and cup holders are the highlights. 16" x 7.0" 8-lug painted steel, 16" x 7.0" 8-lug chrome-clad steel, 17" x 7.5" 8-lug bright machined aluminum and 17" x 6.5" 8-lug painted steel includes painted center caps are available.

Leather seats; door panels that have wood-grain and metallic accents; keyless entry; rain-sensing wipers; an exclusive dash; heated front seats and 12-way power feature in the SLT trims.

Power door locks and windows; XM Radio with a 3 month trial subscription and front leather-appointed bucket seats, power reclining, heated; Driver Information System; Sunroof; Navigation System and DVD Entertainment System are some of the optional interior features.

Safety features

Frontal, driver and right-front passenger airbags, four-wheel antilock, four-wheel disc brakes, and one-year OnStar service with Safe and Sound plan are standard.

The OnStar system includes automatic crash notification, automatic notification of air bag deployment, stolen vehicle location assistance, a link to all emergency services, roadside assistance, remote door unlock (requires power locks), OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics, hands-free calling and remote horn and lights.

PASSkey III Plus theft-deterrent system, power-adjustable pedals and rear park assist are optional.

The 2009 Dodge Durango is a four-door, up to eight-passenger full-size sport-utility vehicle, available in seven trims - Limited HEV 4x4; Limited 4x4; Limited 4x2; SLT 4x4; SLT 4x2; SE 4x4; and the SE 4x2.

 

HEV, a hybrid model that blends V8 power with V6-like fuel efficiency is new for 2009. SIRIUS Backseat TV, a part of the rear-seat entertainment system is also a new feature. The Adventurer trim has been discontinued.

 

Engine and Performance

 

The 2009 Dodge Durango’s SXT and SLT trims are fitted with a standard 2WD, a standard 3.7-liter V-6 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 235 lb ft of torque. The Limited and all 4WD models derive power from a standard 4.7-liter V8 rated at 303 horsepower and 330 lb ft of torque.

 

A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. A 4.7-liter V8 making 303 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, attached to a five-speed automatic, is optional on the SE 2WD and standard on the SE 4WD, SLT 4WD and all Limited trims.

 

A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine rated at 376 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque is optional on the SLT and Limited. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard. Rear-wheel drive is standard; however a 4WD system with electronic transfer case is an optional.

 

A "two-mode" hybrid system comprising a Hemi V8 (345 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque), two electric motors (87 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque) and a "two-mode" transmission with variable ratios, which maximizes the gasoline and electric power plants, powers the Limited HEV, a 4WD hybrid model. The EPA details are 19 mpg city/20 mpg highway.

 

Body and Styling

 

The 2009 Dodge Durango, better known as a family SUV, is a versatile vehicle with third-row seating. Though compact, it suits to kids. Seventeen-, 18-, 20-inch wheels, full-size spare tire, winch tire carrier, power lock, power lift gate, deep tint sunscreen glass, keyless entry, and power front windows one-touch up and down feature are among exterior features.

 

Interior features roomy and comfortable front seats, not so good storage areas, and a generous cargo capacity of 68 cubic feet (When third-row seats are folded it is 102 cubic feet).

 

Uconnect GPS, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, eight Alpine speakers with Subwoofer, uconnect studios - Sirius Satellite Radio, SIRIUS Satellite Traffic, uconnect phone, 368-watt amplifier and one-year SIRIUS radio service are the multimedia/infotainment features.

 

Premium leather-trimmed first and second row seats, heated front seats, power front seats with driver seat memory, second row 40/20/40 reclining seat, third row two-passenger bench seat, overhead console, and air conditioning with dual zone auto temperature control stand out inside.

 

Safety Features

 

Electronic stability control system and side air bags are standard. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes and side-impact head-curtain air bags are also in the standard equipment list. Electronic Stability Program, Parkview rear back-up camera, speed control, trailer sway control make it more safe and secure.

 

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class continues the tradition of providing sporty style with upscale luxury and high safety. The E-Class line up has a number of midsize luxury sedan and wagon versions. The 2009 E-Class Wagon comes in E350 4Matic and E63 AMG trims. The 2009 E-Class Sedan is offered in E 320 BlueTec, E 350, E350 4Matic, E 550 4Matic, E 550 and the high-performance E 63 AMG trim levels. For 2009, the 4Matic all-wheel drive is offered as a no cost option on all sedans.

 

Power and Performance

 

The E 320 BlueTec is powered by 3.0-liter turbo diesel V-6 engine capable of producing 210 horsepower. The E 350 sedans get a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that cranks out 268 horsepower.

 

The E 550 sedans get power from 5.5-liter V-8 engine that delivers 382-horsepower. The high-performance E 63 AMG is powered by 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produced mighty 507-horsepower. The 4Matic (All-wheel-drive) models are teamed with a five-speed automatic with driver-adaptive shifting, rear-wheel-drive models get a seven-speed automatic transmission. The rear-wheel-drive E-350 offers 17/24 mpg in the city/highway, while it comes down to16/22 mpg (city/highway) for the E350 4Matic. The efficient, quiet and smooth E 320 Blue Tec achieves an impressive 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

 

The E-Class offers adequate handling, though it is not like the BMW 5 Series. The electronically controlled brakes do not have a progressive feel and may lag behind in inspiring confidence. Despite this lacking, the E 550 and E 63 are a good choice in their class. The E 350 delivers a vigorous acceleration and god fuel economy. It is smooth in both city areas and on highways. The E320 BlueTec Sedan is the breakthrough in clean diesel technology. It blends fuel efficiency and low noise, without sacrificing power.

 

Body and Styling

 

The E-Class gets a more rounded exterior design theme, just opposite to the almost-edgy Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It measures about 189 inches long and 71 inches wide offers passenger space of about 97.2 cubic feet.

 

The E-Class sedans get sporty body styling with standard 17-inch 7-spoke wheel or 18-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels.

 

The E-Class offers upscale interior and exteriors features such 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, hands-free phone connectivity, moonroof, dual chrome exhaust tips, chrome door handles and heated, folding side-view mirrors with turn-signal indicators. The large dual-panel glass Panorama Sunroof provides both front- and rear-seat passengers with a view of the sky. The front panel can either tilt open or slide over the rear panel to open completely. Independently operated interior power sunshades cover both glass roof panels can be used to limit the amount of sunlight.

 

The AMG sport package comes with AMG front and rear aprons; 18-inch, five-spoke wheels; dual chrome exhaust; and an AMG steering wheel with shift paddles.

 

Safety Features

 

The 2009 Mercedes E-Class offers optimum safety with state-of-the-art safety features. The anti-lock brake system, brake assist, electronic stability control, radar-based adaptive cruise control, pre-safe collision mitigation system, active front head restraints and traction control systems are a few of the numerous safety features.

 

Coming from a Ford company division that manufactures vehicles that are somewhere between the elite and the plebian, the Mercury Mountaineer can still be considered an upscale, full-size SUV. What started off as a modest venture has seen its 70th year of operation now. Offering proof that this old company can still adapt to the current market trends, the Mountaineer has some refreshing changes for 2009.

 

  Important among these are Sirius; a standard SYNC, the voice activated audio control, and a neatly redesigned navigation. Its competitors include Buick Enclave; Saab 9-7X and the Chrysler Aspen.

 

  Power and performance

 

  The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer comes in a choice of two engines: a 4.0-liter V6 that generates 210 horsepower and 254 lb ft of torque, and a 292 horsepower, 315 lb ft-torque 4.6-liter V8 engine.

 

  The Mountaineer comes in two trims –Base and Premier. Between these engines, one can expect mileage of between 13 and 21 mpg.

 

  Both trims are given a standard two-wheel drive and an optional all-wheel drive. While the V6 comes with a five-speed automatic transmission, the V8 has a six-speed automatic transmission.

 

  Body and styling

 

  The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer’s exterior features include the new power-deployable running boards which automatically deploy as the doors are opened and glide back into the stowed position when the doors are closed; choice of 17, 18, 19 and 20” wheels; black roof rails; distinctive and signature Mercury waterfall grille; automatic headlamps; LED tail lamps; power, heated exteriors; reverse sensing system that makes parking in the reverse easy, and two-way liftgate.

 

  For the interiors, the 2009 Mercury Mountaineer gets Alcantara® inserts; SYNC; bright accents on the instrument panel, center console and door-trim panels, and color-keyed carpet; leather-wrapped steering wheel; auto-dimming rearview mirror; power-adjustable pedals with memory; a message center that displays outside temperature, elapsed drive time, estimated distance-to-empty fuel tank and other functions; leather-wrapped steering wheel with secondary audio and cruise control; second-row 60/40 split bench; 10-way power driver’s seat adjustments and power lumbar and recline; one-touch moonroof; dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control system and third-row manual 50/50 split bench seat.

 

  The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer also comes with a stylish optional VOGA package. The chief cushy features of this model are chrome roof rack rails; chrome grille and side mirror skull caps; 18-inch bright chrome-clad wheels with VOGA center caps; floor mats with embroidered VOGA logo; unique cashmere-colored leather-trimmed seats; chrome rear bumper accent; chrome beltline and chrome license plate appliqué and unique center stack, door switch and door trim panels.

 

  Safety aspects

 

  With features like Intelligent Safety System that has a sensor to help determine crash severity; tire pressure monitoring system; child safety and a safety canopy system that enhances side protection; automatic headlamps; anti-lock braking system and Advancetrac with roll stability control, the 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is a safety conscious vehicle.