What's new for 1999 - Statistical Data Included

Kiplinger's New Cars & Trucks, Annual, 1999 by Ed Henry

Best in Class

LEXUS GS 400

A driver's car that caters to those who demand nimble handling and performance from a luxury sedan.

Most Fuel-Efficient

MERCEDES-BENZ E300

TURBODIESEL

The 174-horsepower turbodiesel moves almost two tons of Mercedes with ease and delivers 26 mpg in stop-and-go city driving.

Best Resale Value

PORSCHE BOXSTER

When dealers can command $10,000 more than the sticker, it's no wonder the resale value after four years is expected to be a whopping 64%.

First for Safety

MERCEDES-BENZ SL500

Why is this sporty convertible tops in safety? Chalk it up to sophisticated technology and drivers who take special care behind the wheel of a $75,000 automobile.

Best New Car

CHEVROLET CORVETTE HARDTOP

No surprise: With its stellar handling and performance--and high demand for the "poor man's 'Vette"--you'll have a tough time bargaining down the price.

Best Seller

CADILLAC DEVILLE

A big, solid performer, DeVille's 93,000 sales beat out Lincoln's Town Car by about 3,000.

Worth a Look

SAAB 9-3 CONVERTIBLE

A new multivalve, turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes this one of the most responsive cars on the road. A joy to drive.

                                Bottom line

Price as equipped                $24,421
including dual AC and
power sliding doors
To buy                           $617 a month
$4,884 down, 8.5% APR, 36 months
To lease                         $38 a month
$1,310 due at signing,
$14,795 residual, $36 months

Best in Class

PONTIAC MONTANA EXTENDED

"Are we there yet?" You may never hear that whine again if you spring for the optional $2,600 color monitor and VCR.

Best New Wagon

BMW 5401

Faster than any vehicle in the class, thanks to a 4.4-liter V-8 with 282 horsepower.

First for Safety

VOLVO V70 T5 TURBO

Safe doesn't mean boring. This perennial safety leader is fast, comfortable and easy to drive on short errands or long trips.

Best in Class Best Resale Value

MERCEDES-BENZ E320

This pricey wagon leads the pack, with unique side-impact air bags, sophisticated anti-lock brakes and a resale value after four years of 58%.

Best Resale Value

TOYOTA SIENNA XLE

Last year's Best New Minivan winner is expected to be hot on the used-car market, commanding an estimated 51% of its original price after four years.

Best Seller

DODGE CARAVAN

The granddaddy of minivans--which shares lowest-cost honors with the Plymouth Voyager--sold 270,000 last year.

Best New Minivan

HONDA ODYSSEY

Finally, a sharp-looking minivan from Honda. It seats seven people comfortably, or the rear seat flips into the floor for more cargo space.

                          Sport Utility Vehicles
                                Bottom line

Price as equipped                $31,188
including power sunroof
To buy                           $788 a month
$6,238 down, 8.5% APR, 36 months
To Lease                         $521 a month
$1,706 due at signing,
$17,615 residual, 36 months

Best New Sport Utility Vehicle

JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LIMITED

A more carlike ride, better steering and more cargo space than its predecessor.

Worth a Look

SUZUKI GRAND VITARA

A worthy competitor to Honda's CR-V and Toyota's RAV4. This new SUV offers ample room, a comfortable ride and real off-road capability.