The Detroit Free Press published an article this week putting the spotlight on seven new models coming to market over the next 12 months "that could be the difference between overtime and layoffs, profit sharing or plant closures a year from now." One of the vehicles on the list was the Saturn Outlook (and its corporate cousins, the Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia). According to the newspaper, "GM's trinity of new SUVs are vital to three of its brands, and should give it fuel-efficient competitors to hot-selling models like the Honda Pilot, Lexus RX330, and Toyota Highlander. Standard equipment will include a six-speed automatic transmission and curtain air bags. The Outlook and Acadia go on sale this year; the Enclave follows in 2007."

The newspaper cited the Outlook's key selling points as interior room and flexibility, car-like ride, fuel efficiency, and optional V8 available in some models. The V8 hasn't officially been announced by GM or Saturn, but has been rumored to be an available option for quite some time. "I've seen them, sat in them and looked over their specifications, and I can't help believing in them," Rich Homan, editor in chief of Edmunds' InsideLine Web site, told the Free Press. "They look like real players. They've got the styling to get them in the door; the rest is up to price, quality and GM's dealers." The newspaper adds that the Outlook, Enclave, and Acadia "give GM its first credible entries in a growing segment. [They] could boost GM sales at the expense of arch competitor Toyota."

Below is a list of the "models that matter" according to the Detroit Free Press:

• Chevrolet Silverado
• Toyota Tundra
• Ford Edge
• Honda Accord
• Nissan Altima
• Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan
• Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook

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Source: Detroit Free Press