1994 Ad

WITH better engineered, more high-tech looking and more sensibly proportioned automobile models for 1994, American carmakers are continuing their quest for buyers' confidence and a larger market share. For the most part, the uncluttered, chrome-sparse "European look" that characterized most U. S. and Japanese cars during the 1993 model year and which blurred the visible line between imports and domestics continues with the 1994 model lineup.

Most of the 1994 model changes are non-cosmetic, no-nonsense innovations aimed at improving engine performance, handling, comfort, fuel economy, horsepower, emission reduction and safety. The same is true for trucks, minivans and sport utility vehicles, whose growing popularity has made them an important part of the 1994 auto output, both foreign and domestic.

Advanced features that used to be optional at additional cost are now standard in many of the Big Three's models as well as in many foreign imports. They include driver- and passenger-side airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronically controlled transmissions, variable-effort steering, traction control, automatic door locks, tilt steering wheels, rear seat belts and air conditioners that use non-ozone-depleting refrigerant.

Among the major changes in 1994 car design and styling offered at Chrysler are the improved door beams and structural reinforcements for dynamic side impact protection on the New Yorker, LHS series, Concorde, Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision. Dual driver- and passenger-side airbags have been introduced as standard equipment on all Chrysler minivans.

Ford's year-old luxury car, the Lincoln Mark VIII, has added new Nudo leather seats, memory-outside mirrors and remote memory recall for seats and mirror positions. To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the 1994 Ford Mustang features an all-new interior and exterior, a 3.8 liter, V-6 engine and the pony emblem on the grille. The 1994 Ford Taurus offers passenger-side airbags and 15-inch wheels and tires.

Cadillac is unveiling the new DeVille Concours, a six-passenger luxury sedan with a 4.6 liter engine, expanded climate controls, precision instrumentation and an 11-speaker audio system. The 1994 Cadillac Seville luxury sedan offers a more powerful engine, new interior and exterior colors and improved safety features. Cadillac's Sedan DeVille models have completely new interiors and exteriors in 1994.

Chevrolet introduces a new convertible in the base Camaro and Z28 models with sequential fuel injection, which provides a smoother idle, better handling and lower emissions. Also, the Chevrolet S-10 Pickup has new trim, new seats and more interior space.

Oldsmobile has cut models for 1994 by seven to 15. The moderately priced Oldsmobile Achieva includes a new sports sedan model and standard driver-side air bag. Every 1994 Buick has a driver-side airbag and anti-lock brakes, including the Regal, which has a more powerful V-6 engine and a standard theft-deterrent system.

General Motors also presents a new model Pontiac Firebird and a new V-6 engine and four-speed automatic transmission on the Pontiac Grand Am.

American Honda Motor Co. Inc. unveils the all-new, totally redesigned and re-engineered Honda Accord available at the current 1993 base price. The sporty sedan features a wider body with more interior space, new exterior styling and a more powerful 2.2 liter engine.

There is much to offer truck and utility vehicle buyers this year. For example, Chevrolet, GMC and Toyota sport utility units are more powerful, roomier and provide increased safety.

Nissan Motor Corp. has enhanced its car lineup with the addition of new safety and convenience features. The 1994 Altima has front seat 3-point seat belts with adjustable shoulder height replacing motorized belts, and in the SE models' sunroofs are standard.

Toyota has standard driver- and passenger-side airbags in the three sedan models of the 1994 Toyota Corolla. Toyota's best-selling model, the Camry, is available in a new, two-door Coupe in five different versions. The economical 1994 Toyota Tercel makes it easier to carry infants and young children with new passenger seat belts.

Mazda is introducing an LX V6 model to its Mazda 626 sedan. Both models have passenger-side airbags and non-ozone depleting refrigerant.

Following 3 1/2 years of design and development work, Saab Automobile AB introduces an all-new 1994 Saab 900. The new car resembles the old Saab but has major engineering changes to challenge high-tech automobiles from Europe and Japan.

Sweden's other automaker, AB Volvo, is counting on the retooled Volvo 850 to boost its U. S. sales. A new sporty turbo sedan and a new wagon have been added to the 850 lineup.

One of the more revolutionary innovations in 1994 involves marketing, not engineering. General Motors Corp., among others, will offer several car and truck models with non-negotiable prices in California. The models in question will be offered with a package of options at prices lower than what a customer would pay if the car model and the options were priced separately.