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NADAguides' "Hidden Gems" of the Auto Industry


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Five New Makes and Models that May Surprise Consumers(No Surprises For TACH Readers)

MORE: Specs, Prices, Reviews and Comparisons - New Car Buyers Guide

COSTA MESA, Calif., May 27, 2009; Several automotive brands automatically conjure up images of distinctive style, luxurious interiors and advanced product lines. However, each model year there are unique vehicles that hit the market that are not so 'top of mind' to consumers, yet bring together some of the best and most affordable performance and amenity packages. In an effort to make sure these vehicles aren't overlooked, NADAguides.com is announcing its latest 'Hidden Gems' list of new cars available to consumers today: the Buick Enclave, Pontiac G5, Volkswagen CC, Lincoln MKS and Ford Fusion Hybrid.

"Our focus at NADAguides.com is to provide consumers with the tools and information they need to find the right car, which at times means highlighting some extraordinary vehicles that might otherwise go unnoticed. It's our goal, as we discover these vehicles, to immediately present them to consumers," said Michael Caudill, automotive expert for NADAguides.com.

Buick Enclave

Looking to move people around in style? The Buick Enclave crossover might be just the ticket. With a large, quiet cabin, heated and cooled leather seats, touch screen GPS navigation with real-time traffic and standard tri-zone climate control, the Enclave moves up to 8 passengers from point A to point B in refined comfort. The 3.6L V6 with direct fuel injection provides plenty of power in addition to 24 mpg on the highway for front-wheel drive equipped models. A very reasonable starting price of $35,070 and a 5-year 100,000 mile powertrain warranty also make the Enclave an exceptional value.

Pontiac G5

With incredible fuel economy, a low price-point at $16,980 and a long list of standard features, the Pontiac G5 is the perfect car for the commuter who shuns the typical econo-box. Hands-free Bluetooth, CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, OnStar and remote keyless entry all come standard. Powered by a 2.2L 4-cylinder engine that produces 155 hp, the G5 returns impressive EPA fuel economy figures of 25 city/37 hwy mpg. It is also designated as a partial zero emissions vehicle (PZEV), which means the exhaust coming out of the tailpipe is cleaner than the surrounding air in many urban environments.

Volkswagen CC

The Volkswagen CC is a real looker, with its sleek lines and finely crafted interior, but its beauty is not just skin deep. Both the 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder and powerful 280 hp VR6 are surprisingly fuel efficient and very refined. For those living in inclement climates or simply looking for more control, the VR6 is also available with 4Motion all-wheel drive. Words don't do the elegantly plush interior justice, so head over to the Volkswagen CC photo gallery and experience it yourself.

Lincoln MKS

The stunning MKS sedan recalls glamorous Lincolns of the past, but offers a completely modern driving experience. With 355 hp on tap and 25 mpg highway from the available twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost engine, the MKS provides a great balance between performance and economy. Starting at $40,870, the Lincoln MKS comes well-equipped with GPS navigation system and SYNC, heated and cooled front seats, voice activated controls, satellite radio and HID headlamps.

Ford Fusion Hybrid

With EPA gas mileage figures of 41 city/36 hwy, the Ford Fusion Hybrid can lay claim to the title "most fuel-efficient mid-size sedan in America," an impressive fact considering the competition in this hotly contested segment. There are also a surprising number of available features for a car that starts at $27,270, including Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide that helps drivers maximize their economy, voice-activated GPS navigation with SYNC, heated leather seats and a new Blind Spot Information System. In short, the Fusion Hybrid is easy on the planet, easy on the eyes and absolutely loaded with technology.

To learn more about these vehicles and see how they stack up with their better-known competitors, please visit www.newcarbuyersguide.com and check out the car comparison tool. The 4-car-comparagraph tool allows consumers to select up to 4 new and/or used vehicles and compare them based on hundreds of statistics that NADAguides.com provides for each vehicle.

About NADAguides.com

NADA Appraisal Guides (NADAguides.com) is the world's largest publisher of vehicle pricing and specification information for new and used cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs, as well as van conversions, limousines, classic and collectible cars, boats, RVs, motorcycles, vintage motorcycles, snowmobiles, personal watercraft and manufactured housing. The company's consumer website, NADAguides.com (http://www.nadaguides.com/), offers a variety of new and used vehicle services in addition to valuation information. Throughout its 76-year history, NADA Appraisal Guides has earned the reputation as the recognized authority for vehicle valuations.

MORE: Specs, Prices, Reviews and Comparisons - New Car Buyers Guide