carpeting features a plethora of electronic doo-dads and high-tech instrumentation.

Even everyday instruments offer surprises. Switch on the ignition and a blank area where the instruments should be

lights up with instruments. But with a difference! The numbers are lighted from behind and the red pointers for the

tach, speedometer, fuel and temperature gauges seem to float above the gauge faces. That may sound a bit gimmicky,

but it makes the gauges very easy to read and we applaud the technology.

A set of controls are mounted on the dash just to the right. This is the fun center. It's used to set variables for

ride quality and power steering assist along with trip information, such as miles to empty, average mpg and instant

mpg. Push the check button and the status of various systems is shown.

Owners can program a myriad of functions such as whether to have the doors lock when the car moves forward, or to

have the horn chirp when the remote locks the doors, or to have the rear view mirrors dip when the transmission goes

into reverse. And all of that can be stored in a pair of memory buttons so that different drivers can have the car

tailored to their preferences, eliminating potential trouble spots between spouses. Simply push the driver ID button,

select 1 or 2 and all your preferences will be selected.

Our test car came with comfortable bucket seats covered in handsome leather. Both seats offer power adjustments and

the driver's seat has a two-position memory. We liked the seating position and visibility was good in all directions.

With lots of rear seat leg room, three adults can sit in back with reasonable comfort. The interior can hold six when

a front bench is selected. Either way, the leather is standard.

An optional Remote Satellite Cellular Unit, called RESCU, is automatically activated when the airbags are deployed.

It combines satellite locating with an active voice to bring assistance. The options package includes the run-flat tires, an upgraded sound system and a garage door opener.