Looking Back: July 2006

Now that we’re done with June, here’s what came down the interwebs in July.

The Dodge Challenger — which will look just like the concept car — is coming … in 2008, while the Pontiac GTO quietly disappears after three years of lackluster sales and little car-enthusiast interest. Another go-fast model — the Dodge SRT10 Ram — ends its run of gas-guzzling, muscle-truck glory.

Americans are getting fatter — perhaps the french fry holder is the culprit — and they’re so lazy they don’t use manual windows, either.

Toyota recalls 130,000 Tundras, 370,000 SUVs, 34,700 Prius hybrids and Echos, and then delays the new Corolla until 2008.

Nissan — feeling left out — recalls 200,000 Sentras and Altimas while we see evidence of wheels falling off Hummer H2s.

GMC reveals its new crossover, the Acadia, and it’s a looker. Yes, you read that right. Porsche debuts its new 911 Targa 4, and it too is a looker — but we expected that. Volvo introduces the new C30 hatchback and we have no idea where to put it on the looks meter. And the new Mini Cooper? It’s new? Look close.

Ford extends its powertrain warranty to five years for Ford and Mercury and six years for Lincoln. Not to be outdone, GM will respond later in the year.

The Big Three are passed by all the imports for total market share. It was just a matter of time, and that time was July 24, 2006.

Dave and Beth take a spin in Ford’s new Shelby GT500, and both would be willing to trade in their daily drivers.

Related:
Looking Back: June 2006
Looking Back: August 2006
Looking Back: September 2006