Random observations in Detroit

Reflecting on the news and happenings thus far, here are a few random observations:

• Why doesn't the Saturn Vue dual-mode hybrid use the 2.8-liter version of GM's DOHC V6 (never mind a four-cylinder)?  The SUV, instead, gets the 3.6-liter V6; the normal Vue XR with this engine got only 17 mpg overall in our tests. While this hybrid does have better EPA ratings than the non-hybrid, the combination of the 2.8-liter and the hybrid drive would likely have returned decent acceleration numbers and better fuel economy than the 3.6. We're wondering if the Vue's design brief got approved before the grand idea of "performance hybrids"—like the cancelled Honda Accord hybrid—went bust. A turbocharged, direct injection, 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter/hybrid combo would also have been interesting, using the hybrid power to boost low-end torque to move the heavy Vue off the line while improving mileage.
• Props to Subaru and Honda for keeping a boxy profile for their Forester and Pilot, respectively. Eschewing the trend for a sloping roof line and a Nissan Murano-like truncated rear-quarter window improves both cargo area and visibility - two reasons why people buy SUVs in the first place.
• We wish we could blame the writers strike on some of the hard-to-get-through speeches we've been hearing.
• Ford brought out a bunch of Mustangs in the middle of their press conference, with one drifting to a stop on the stage in Cobo Arena. Thing is, although the Mustang line has many proliferations, there really wasn't any thing to report. They drove in a bunch of Mustangs, they were parked for two minutes, and then they blasted out. Why? My guess: Mustangs are fun, and most journalists love them - hence, the press conference had a sort of a "halftime show" with a bunch of Mustangs. Fair enough.

—Tom Mutchler

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