5 Things…

For the Auto-Minded

The Big Kid
Dodge Challenger

Some industry observers fear that a 2008 Dodge challenger is too reminiscent of its 1970 predecessor’s classic lines and will appeal mainly to “Dukes of Hazard” fans. And the problem is? Expected asking price of $25,000 to $35,000, www.dodgechallenger.com

The Junior Executive
MINI Cooper

In 2007, the miniature British sports car gets its first ground up redesign: new transmissions, steering gear, brakes and safety systems as well as more advanced engines, which feature increased horsepower (120 hp and 175 hp) and better fuel economy. $16,750 - $25,000, www.miniusa.com

Working From Home
Toyota Tundra

Aimed squarely at the soul of Joe Sixpack, the new, beefed-up Tundra was conceived and tested on the NASCAR race circuit and is manufactured in Texas and Indiana. Among its many upgrades, the Tundra features a brand-new, 5.7-liter V-8 (built in Alabama), which boosts the truck’s tow rating to 10,000 pounds. $16,155 to $29,615, www.toyota.com

The Greenie
Toyota Prius

This year, the responsible little green machine gets a little racy, with a new Touring model, which features sports-tuned suspension, fog lamps, xenon headlights and a larger rear spoiler. $23,000, www.toyota.com

The Mid-Life Crisis
Porche Cayman

Based on the award-winning Boxster, the Cayman is a hair slower than its tricked-out sibling, the Cayman S. But the new model features a 2.7-liter flat six, which rockets the car from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. At $10,000 less than the S and at least $20,000 cheaper than the Porsche 911, you’ll still have enough money to keep your spouse, mistress or boy toy happy. Starting at $49,400, www.porscheusa.com

Do you like what you read? Subscribe to Hawaii Business Magazine »