Success on
Wheels
For Stephen O'Brian, choosing the right car that is reliable and mirrors his image will not be an easy task.
With so many new features being added to the greatly expanded line up of automobiles available in the region, Executive Time magazine will provide a short review of the latest offerings available to both the established and aspiring corporate executive.
"I wanted that unquestionable look of success. Success is
noted by our customers and the right car does a lot to enhance
the first impression our clients have of us," says O'Brian,
a senior marketing executive at a paint distributorship in Barbados.
The assurance of safety and quality is also a big concern, he
adds.
If you're like O'Brian, your drive to find the right car could
be confusing as local dealers go out of their way to differentiate
their products.
Hyundai's critical mass is definitely changing the shape of the
road. They are traversing the asphalt with a new winning look
that shouts luxury and promises quality performance. The elegant
Sonata, from the world's youngest automaker, includes technical
refinements such as a "state-of-the-art multi-point fuel
injected engine" (available in both SOHC and DOHC versions)
promises a "whisper quiet, velvet smooth ride." Choose
from the 1.8- or 2.0-liter engine displacements, SOHC or DOHC
or the 3.0-liter V6. Wheel power is generated by 5-speed manual
or optional 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmissions.
Ride quality is enhanced by the McPherson strut front and dual
link rear suspensions.
The car's interior boasts ergonomically designed seats, generous
cabin dimensions and primary and secondary controls well within
easy reach. Hyundai describes this beauty as, "Exceeding
All Expectations."
Hyundai also challenges the more daring executive to "let
go" with their new Coupe. Described as "the shape of
things to come," and deemed to be "a Hyundai unlike
any other," the car with the crafted chassis and power-train
offers the freedom of a sports car with the quality and power
of a 16-valve DOHC, 2.0-litre engine.
You're sure to be recognised in your Peugeot 406. The rear wiper
allows you to "see and be seen even more." In addition,
the generous width of the tailgate and low loading threshold will
easily accommodate that over-sized briefcase and bundles of blueprints.
This Peugeot also offers an electronic engine immobilizer, front
and rear power windows, rear window locking, and electric adjustment
of door mirrors. Options include a CD player, air conditioning
regulator and pollen filter.
The 406 offers a choice of two engine configurations and power.
The first is a cylinder head with 4 valves per cylinder. Each
of the 16 valves of the 1998 cc petrol engine is directly activated
by an automatic compensation hydraulic tappet. The other option,
is the V6 24 valve engine.
Apart from its meticulous design and promise of "full satisfaction",
the Peugeot 406 features an electronic engine immobilizer, reinforced
front suspension that provides safety and stability on uneven
surfaces and a multi-arm rear suspension which boosts its road
holding capability. The car also includes safety features such
as air-bags, a thermal screen which insulates the tank from the
exhaust network and reinforced areas throughout.
Perhaps you would like to take the bull by the horns and get the
job done with the Ford, Taurus LX or GL. Available in 3.0L 2V
V6 or 3.0L 4V V6 automatic, both cars feature one of two engines;
a 3.)L DOHC V6 12V (Catalyst) or a 3.0L DOHC V6 24V (Catalyst),
a front independent MacPherson with gas-pressured struts and stabiliser
bar, power assisted rack-and-pinion with variable assist, power
central locking with lighted controls, multi-reflector halogen
headlights and interior safety air-bags.
Lots of space, tremendous comfort, thoughtful design and safety.
Honda welcomes you to the road of success with its powerful and
stylish Honda Accord. An 8-way power adjustment and lumbar support
driver's seat promises as much relaxation as the ambience of its
meticulously designed leather interior, richly accentuated by
a wood-grain finish. The air conditioning system keeps you cool
while reinforced cabin doors, impact-absorbing bumpers, Honda's
revamped double-wishbone suspension and dual air-bags helps you
keep your cool with a sense of safety. Whether you choose the
4-cylinder, 150-horsepower engine or the new V-6, 3-litre, 24-valve,
200-horsepower engine, Honda's VTEC (variable valve timing) system
enhances fuel efficiency.
BMW - those three letters are shaping the future. With two tantalising
versions to choose from, the top executive will be getting many
'double-takes'. The BMW 5 Series Saloon is found where "only
the best will do." Made from high-grade materials and designed
with a sense of generous space and functionality this car which
features a 6-cylinder or 8-cylinder engine is characterised by
silken smooth running and fuel economy. Featuring a lightweight
chassis and extreme torsional stiffness gives the car unique driving
qualities. Thanks to eight air-bags and Automatic Stability Control
+ Traction (ASC+T), this car has earned high points for comfort
and safety.
If you prefer the newer model, why not try the BMW 3 series? Defined
as "Simply different," and "One of the most beautiful
pictures science has ever painted," this car has unique aesthetic
appeal. A step towards progress, this car features a new turbo-diesel
with variable turbocharger, extra cabin space and a bigger engine.
Executive Time "Online" also has a printed version which is available throughout the Caribbean and some selected North American cities.
