Return Of The Targa:
The 2009 Pontiac Solstice Coupe
Six years after showing a fixed-roof Solstice concept, Pontiac is finally making good on its promise to release a coupe version. Due to hit dealers in early 2009, the Solstice Coupe is technically a targa model, equipped with a removable roof panel fashioned from lightweight aluminum and magnesium parts, with sections of sheet molding compound.
According to Pontiac, the roof and supporting structure aft of the seats adds 31 pounds to the coupe's overall curb weight and can be removed by a single person with a minimum of back strain. Due to packaging constraints, there's no way of fitting the removable hard top in the trunk, so drivers who want to give their bald spot some sun can leave the roof at home and fit the optional soft top (stowed in the cargo area) in case the weather turns nasty.
With the addition of a main hoop, the Solstice Coupe has evolved into a fastback, with a stylized 'rail' that runs from the top of the roof to the trunk and terminates in a functional ducktail spoiler. Unlike the convertible, the coupe's trunk space isn't so compromised by the rear-mounted gas tank. A flat cargo floor, complete with storage bins and tie-downs, makes the coupe version slightly more functional.
Pontiac will be offering the Solstice Coupe in both standard and GXP trim levels, with the former powered by an Ecotec 2.4-liter inline four making 173bhp and 167lb-ft of torque, while the latter will be equipped with a 2.0-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged four-pot producing 260bhp and 260lb-ft. Both models will come with either a five-speed automatic or manual transmission. Rumors have begun to circulate that the force-fed Ecotec could be tweaked to produce upward of 300bhp by increasing boost pressure and revising the fuel rail. Prices haven't been set as of this writing, but expect both versions to carry a hefty premium over their convertible counterparts.
Fit For Sale
The new Honda Fit has been available in Japan for over six months, but as is often the case, it's taking a little longer for the revised version to make it onto American shores. Although outward appearances may deceive, the 2009 Fit has been upgraded in almost every way. The exterior benefits from a revised fascia inspired by the Euro-spec Civic, with massive headlamps that come within inches of the A-pillar and a larger aero dam. Under the new bulging hood lies a revised version of the 1.5-liter iVTEC four-cylinder, mated to either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Honda hasn't released output figures for the upgraded engine, but if the JDM version is any indication, it should be producing around 118bhp and 107lb-ft of torque.
A sport-tuned suspension, revised steering rack and a more rigid chassis all aim to build upon the Fit's reputation as a flickable family hauler. But as entertaining as the Fit may be, it's always been more about packaging and convenience rather than high gs and low quarter-mile times. The new model retains the foldable back seats (that allow for ample storage whether upright or lying flat) and adds a host of new electronic gizmos, including voice-activated satellite navigation, a 6.5-inch LCD screen and a USB port for MP3 players-all part of the Sport package. The 2009 Fit will be hitting dealers this fall and pricing should be out by the time you read this.
By Damon Lavrinc
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