New models that turned our heads

This fall, do-it-all, have-it-all cars are all the rage. But some buyers want to make a different statement. Here are 11 models for 2003 that stand out from the crowd – by dint of superiority, popularity, uniqueness, or just fun.

Volvo's first SUV epitomizes the kinder, gentler SUV, and as such may be the handiest Swiss Army knife on the road. Think of the XC90 as a Volvo CrossCountry wagon jacked up even higher, with the same all-wheel-drive system and five-cylinder turbo engine. The XC90 also offers a twin-turbo six cylinder and seating for seven. What sets this SUV apart from others is Volvo's focus on safety. A gyroscopic roll sensor anticipates rollovers, preemptively inducing an electronic stability system and proactively firing side-window airbags. The roof is also strengthened to prevent collapse. Prices range from $34,000 to $43,000.

Part pickup, part convertible, and all hot rod, the Chevy SSR with its big, roaring V8 harks back to trucks of the 1950s. This thing was the hit of Detroit's Woodward (Ave.) Dream Cruise in August – an event that allows drivers to show off fancy new and old models along a 16-mile route. The steel top folds behind the cab to make a convertible, and a hard cover hinges open over the bed. That leaves room for two and a surprisingly tiny "trunk." At least you'll look good towing the boat. Expect prices north of $35,000.

When the très chic New Beetle arrived on 1998, Volkswagen promised a convertible would follow. It's been a long wait, but the New Beetle convertible finally replaces the old Golf-based VW Cabrio this fall. This thing is cute enough to revive the new Beetle's image, with rounded lines, modern safety and convenience gear, and a glass rear window. The bug, however, lacks a "basket-handle" roll hoop, making it potentially less safe and less sturdy than the Cabrio it replaces. And don't expect to carry much luggage. Prices haven't been announced, but figure on $20,000 to $25,000.

A trucklet based on the Civic platform, the new Element looks like the box the Civic came in. Function- ally, the Element is geared toward 20-something singles and their gear. Its two-piece tailgate folds up and down to reveal a flat-load floor. The back seats fold up against the sides or come out completely. Back doors hinge open backward to offer easy access for passengers or large cargo. Best of all, it's fun to drive – and at $17,000 to $20,000, it makes an economical commuter vehicle.

The Baja is what happens when you cross Subaru's Outback wagon with the carmaker's old Brat pickup. Baja is a four-door station wagon with a four-foot pickup bed grafted to the back. From the driver's seat, you'd never guess you were driving a pick-up without looking in the rearview mirror. Need more space out back? With the tailgate down, a bed extender buys another two feet, and a small flap folds down behind the rear seats so long cargo can slide inside. Price: in the neighborhood of $25,000.

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