2018 Ford Ecosport – Automotive Review
Andrew Harwood
December 16, 2018
“Introducing the 2018 Ford EcoSport, a combination of no eco and zero sport.”
2017 BMW X4 M40i - Review
BMW blends the lines between its class of SUVs and car with their all-new 2017 X4. This lineup is labeled as an SAV or sports activity vehicle. The acute angles and fastback sloped rear has this vehicle reminiscent of a coupe in overall appearance with the larger aggressive stance of an SUV.
This new addition to BMW’s lineup is very similar to their very popular X6. I found the exterior to be more exciting and sporty than the typical blocky right angles found on most SUVs including the very similar X3. This coupe-like design does create a smaller space for the second-row seating, with about 45mm lost in leg and headroom. Now the spec’s do show a decrease in cargo volume, with the foldable seats and nearly identical exterior dimensions as the X6, I felt there was ample room for an SUV in this class.
The X4 was truly designed to be driven under the M badge as the M40i, with its “TwinPower” turbo 3.0l inline 6. This is the same engine found in BMW’s M2 coupe. And after being tuned for the SUV, it delivers 0-100km/hr. in 4.9 seconds with 355hp and 343 ft./lbs. of torque. With these impressive specs, it beats the similar priced; Porsche Macan S having 0-100km/hr. in 5.0s and the Audi SQ5 at 5.3 seconds. Providing some of that speed and acceleration are technologies like “TwinScroll” turbo, high precision injection system, DoubleVANOS variable camshaft control system, and the VALVETRONIC fully variable control system. The additional $12,000 at MSRP between the Xdrive 28i and the M40i provides an increase of almost 100hp, which allows it to live up to its sports car-like appearance. An interesting point to note is that the performance doesn’t come at a sacrifice to fuel consumption as both the competition above had a combined fuel consumption of 12.2l/100km, whereas the X4 M40i was only 11.3l/100km
As expected with a luxury brand such as BMW, the driving experience was always unapparelled. The exciting new role of a small sports SUV, showcased all their advances in racing technology, while still providing ample space for the daily commute or weekend escape. For someone who doesn’t want to fully give up the thrill of driving a small coupe like the BMW M240i, you can find all that power and excitement in the larger and more versatile BMW X4 M40i
Key Features
- MSRP $61,000
- Power 355hp @ 5,800 – 6,000rpm
- Torque 343lb-ft @ 1,200 – 5,000rpm
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9s
- Combined fuel consumption 11.3 l/100km
2018 Ford F150 Power Stroke Diesel – Automotive Review
Ian Harwood
December 9, 2018
Introducing the 2018 Ford F150 Power Stroke Diesel, Yes that’s right Power Stroke Diesel in an F150. If not for the badging you wouldn’t know and as for the many fellow drivers that did a double take when looking at the vehicle, yes it is! With an estimated rating as low as 10.8L/100 km Highway it can tow up to 11,400 pounds without as much as a whimper.
2018 Dodge Durango SRT – Automotive Review
Jared Syrenne
November 28, 2018
The all-new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT is one mean, stuff moving machine. The SRT Durango is the fastest, most powerful three-row SUV. Using Dodge’s tested and proven HEMI V-8 provides this SUV with 475 hp and best-in-class towing capability of 8,700 pounds.
Conquest Vehicles – Automotive Review
Ian Harwood
November 21, 2018
The Walking Dead may be just a TV show, but I know more than a few of us are spending sleepless nights wondering if we should prepare for what’s to come.. you know when the shit really hits the fan.
Winter Backroad Safety – Advice
Ian Harwood
November 14, 2018
The snow is starting to accumulate in the mountains and although its early in the fall season for us at sea level, it will start to look like the middle of winter up in the mountains. If you are heading out on a winter excursion whether it’s to go camping, fishing, backcountry skiing, or any other outdoor activity there are certain precautions you should take.
2018 Hyundai KONA – Automotive Review
Andrew Harwood
November 8, 2018
There’s a trembling brewing up from Hyundai’s core, spewing out like an eruption is the all-new 2018 KONA. This is Hyundai’s first global entry to the B-SUV segment and is the smallest crossover in Hyundai’s lineup, however, this little KONA sure packs a wallop.
2018 INFINITI Q60 – Automotive Review
Vince Sandhu
October 31, 2018
Offering both a 2.0L and 3.0L engines in 5 different model options all with stunting sharp, slick body lines — the INFINITI Q60 has all the pieces to the puzzle for a great sports coupe. While the Q50 is the popular sports sedan, the Q60 stands apart with its compact coupe design with a clear focus on the driver.
Off-Roading Tires – Advice
Ian Harwood
October 24, 2018
Off-road driving is fun activity many people enjoy. Driving down a gravel road to get to your favorite fishing hole or a day out with your family brings lots of wholesome outdoor enjoyment.
2019 Acura TLX – Automotive Review
Vince Sandhu
October 17, 2018
Since 2014, Acura decided to make something smaller than the TL but bigger than the TSX. With that in mind, the TLX has been holding the fort down very well.