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2019 Mercedes-Benz A220 – Automotive Review

2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Cover
Andrew Harwood

Andrew Harwood

2019 Mercedes-Benz A220 – Automotive Review

Mercedes-Benz redefines modern luxury requirements for the compact class, with the new for 2019 A Class Sedan & Hatchback

Excerpt/Headline

With this entry-level luxury sedan set to entice buyers into the brand at an affordable price, offering a complete blend of luxury design and features bundled up in a financially respectable package. Well, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz A 220 does just that. While the Mercedes originally released the CLA to fulfill this space; At the released price, the elements of quality and lack of spaciousness in the rear seats didn’t have buyers sticking around. Well the A-class now acts as the most economical segway into a Mercedes-Benz brand with many of the expected luxuries found in their higher-end models

Interior

Inside the A 220, your immediate drawn is towards the dash. The silver coating throughout and use of layering are smart in making the infotainment screen look extravagant and expensive.  Previously in the CLA models, the screen looked almost like it was tacked-on as an afterthought. Where-as the A 220 with the $3000 premium package and its dual 10.25” screens look almost as if it’s “floating” on the dashboard. This digital screen combo creates the feeling of it being one elongated piece extenuating that high-end design feel. Other available options like $1990 for leather seats and $1500 for a HUD can quickly elevate this car, but also as quickly take it out of the entry category. Our A 220 featured a white and black piano-style seating, which looked slick but, I can only imagine how fast the white color will fall victim to stains. The 2729 mm wheelbase and 1443 mm height provide enough comfort and space for a car full of people. Also, a point to note, the A 220 sedan has 420 L of truck capacity, compared to the hatchback A 250 with 370 L.

2020 Mercedes-Benz E 450 - Exterior Side
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Driving-Front
2020 Mercedes-Benz E 450 - Exterior Side
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Exterior-Rear
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Exterior-Front
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Exterior-Side
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Driving
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-Class-Hatchback
2020 Mercedes-Benz E 450 - Wagon Exterior

Styling

For an extra $310 “wow factor,” the Mercedes-Benz A 220 can be equipped with a 64-color ambient lighting system, including illuminating the, air vents, headrests, and door trim. We spent hours setting different color schemes and displays for our drive moods. This was mainly for the show-off factor to passengers and friends, which is, of course, part of the Mercedes experience, correct? It’s one of the more unique and exciting features that we have seen in most modern vehicles, including some higher-end models. The Meridian or available $700 Burmester audio system, in combination with the unique display, only electrifies that ambiance.

Driving

Now under the hood is a different story. There happens to be enough pace with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission routing the 188 horsepower; however, the acceleration isn’t overly impressive. The A 220 4Matic hits it’s 0-100Km in 6.5 seconds. With the price jumping when you include the necessary options, it just gets to be overpriced for a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, in my personal opinion. At that point, I’d start to look at the cheaper Audi A3 or the Acura ILX. The A 220 shifts smoothly at hard acceleration thanks to the dual-clutch transmission, but at lower speeds, it felt somewhat clunky when downshifting to lower gears. However, the overall drivability is adequate. Featuring 3 drive modes, ideally, the A 220 should be left into comfort. The best blend of shift performance and throttle control. Eco-mode feels completely gutless and strictly feels like you should limit yourself to the slow lane. Sport mode will provide later shifting, and higher RPM’s in between gears, providing a more attractive engine fluttering

While this is an excellent segment from Mercedes-Benz into affordable luxury sedans. The A 220 goes from affordable to “why didn’t you just get a C-Class?” in a matter of just a couple options.

2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Interior
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Interior-Front
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Interior-Dash
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Interior-Dash-Color
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Interior-Rear-Seats

Comparisons

  • 2019 Audi A3 Sedan – $34,500
    • 0L with 184hp, and 221 lb-ft torque
    • 0-60 mph in 6.6 sec
  • 2019 BMW 2 Series – $39,950
    • 0L with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft
    • 0-100 km/hr 5.8 sec
  • 2019 Cadillac ATS – $39,990
    • 0L with 272 hp and 295 lb-ft

Key Features:

  • 4.0L with 188 hp at 5,800 RPM and 221 lb-ft torque at 1600 RPM
  • 0-100 km/hr in 7.2 seconds
  • 7G-DCT Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission
  • Front Wheel Drive
  • 420 L Luggage capacity
  • 17” 10-Spoke Wheels
  • Digital Instrument Cluster with 7.0″ Display and 7″ MBUX Media Touchscreen Display
    • Available as 10.25”
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2020 Toyota Corolla - Cover
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2020 Toyota Corolla – Automotive Review

2020 Toyota Corolla - Cover
Andrew Harwood

Andrew Harwood

2020 Toyota Corolla – Automotive Review

Regarded as the best selling car of all time, the 2020 Toyota Corolla gets its most dramatic transformation in recent years.

The Toyota Corolla has always been an easy choice for compact vehicles. It’s the highest selling vehicle of all-time. The reliability, affordability, and efficiency easily have people knowing what they are investing in when purchasing a Corolla. This new 2020 segment has left nothing to suggest that will ever change; even after undergoing the most dramatic transformation in recent memory.

The transformation began with a bit of cosmetic work to the shape and under belly of the new Corolla. New underpinnings to the body as part of Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) helps deliver that smooth drivability. Notably the new 2020 Corolla will offer a new engine option and Hybrid-engine capability. This giving users the optimum fuel efficiency whilst reducing carbon emissions. Ever evolving the Corolla will always deliver to get you from place to place, efficiently and reliably.

2020 Toyota Corolla - Exterior
2020 Toyota Corolla - Exterior
2020 Toyota Corolla - Exterior

The exterior as I mentioned got the sharp feature treatment as opposed to last year. The outside features provide a competitive design finally that seemed to be lacking within the Corollas of years past. Boasted as longer, lower, and wider; the Corolla measures out to be 182.3 inches which is in fact .7 inches shorter then it’s predecessor. The width is increased by .2 inches to 70.1, and lower stance by more than an inch and a half. The Nightshade Edition has that marvel villain name to go along with its dark side. Flairs of black features include 18” black alloy wheels, mirror caps, door handles, front and rear spoilers, skirt, and badging. Complete with availability as a sedan or hatchback to fit your need, the Corolla has more glamour than ever before.

The interior remains rather unchanged from the previous year. Inside, the Corolla hatchback and sedan share a streamlined dashboard and soft-touch materials. Every model has passive entry and push-button start, but certain Corollas can be upgraded with ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. Those who regularly have back-seat passengers should consider the sedan over the hatchback since it has considerably more legroom behind the front seats.

Every Corolla has a touchscreen infotainment system with a mobile hotspot, Apple CarPlay capability however Android Auto is shockingly absent. The rather large 7-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, but its numerous buttons, rotary volume, and tuning knobs help keep the driver’s eyes on the road during use. Top options include wireless charging and an upgraded JBL audio system.

 

Prices starting at

  • L sedan: $18 990
  • LE sedan: $21 790
  • SE: $22 290
  • Hybrid: $24 790
  • XLE sedan: $26 990
  • XSE sedan/hatchback: $28 490

 

With a plethora of selection, each model has noteworthy safety features and options to suit your needs best. Leaving the choice for the best suited Corolla totally up to your own presences. While the hatchback has tighter rear capacity and less cargo space; the hatchback look feels sportier and drives as such. The luxury XSE has all the glitz and glamor but, with the extra cost. The phenomenal fuel efficiency of the Hybrid LE sedan is tough to ignore as well.

2020 Toyota Corolla - Interior
2020 Toyota Corolla - Interior
2020 Toyota Corolla - Interior
2020 Toyota Corolla - Interior

Besides the sportier options like the SE and XSE, the 2020 Corolla is equipped with a 139-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Front wheel drive power is delivered through the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) which provides smooth operation. However, with any sudden pressure to the gas pedal you will find the Corolla bellowing a loud hum throughout the cabin. The for-mentioned sport options boast a 169-horsepower 2-liter four-cylinder to pair with the CVT or optional six-speed manual. While the hatchbacks do have the larger engine, the hybrid powertrain is strictly limited to the sedan. Which ever your mood and style, Toyota has it covered with its multiple models, personally my eyes are drawn to the hatchback XSE.

Fuel efficiency in the 2020 Toyota Corolla is varied throughout the engine selections. The Hybrid will net you a combined 4.5L/100km. The L and LE model will give you about 7.1L/100km, XLE sitting around 7.3L/100km, SE being a little less at 6.7L/100km, and the XSE possessing 7L/100km.

Safety features included in the Toyota Corolla continues to be its namesake. For years the Corolla has been synonymous for reliability and safety. The 2020 Corolla sedan has earned a five-star crash-test rating. Driver-assistance features include pre-collision pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition.

The all-new 2020 ToyotaCorolla attempts to enhance its reputation with flashier styling inside and out, more desirable features, and an improved driving experience. While it’s left to the eyes of the beholder; Toyota – more specifically the Corolla will continue to always see success amongst those who simply want a safe, well equipped and competitively priced car; one with a name synonymous with reliability.

 

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2019 Mazda3 - Cover
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2019 Mazda3 – Automotive Review

2019 Mazda3 - Cover
Vince Sandhu

Vince Sandhu

2019 Mazda3 – Automotive Review

“Despite sharing the same Mazda3 model name, the two forms represent entirely different personalities”. The completely new design of these vehicles is on the border of drastic and subtle, you could almost call it perfect

Overview

Mazda graciously lent me the all-new Mazda 3 Sport AWD in a beautiful Polymetal Grey Metallic paint. I fell in love with this car as soon as I laid eyes on it and I was not disappointed after driving it. It was comfortable, quiet, smooth, and aesthetically pleasing. It ticks just about every box when it comes to sporty hatchbacks. It’s fun, its AWD, it’s nimble, and the price isn’t outrageous. During my “Month of Mazda” test driving the CX-9, MX-5, 3 Sport, and 6 Signature, the 3 gets the top spot in my books and my heart. There’s a reason the Mazda 3 has been Mazda’s best-selling car since 2003, and this year’s model shows you why.

2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3

Styling

When coming across a 2019 Mazda 3 in the wild, you will look twice. The new design is on the border of drastic and subtle. You could almost say perfect, almost. The 3 has a new aggressive face and a round and sporty looking back end. The hashmark grill sits well between 2 narrow and long LED headlights while the shiny and large Mazda emblem sits dead-center and also doubles as the front-view camera when parking. The taillights are a gem to stare at, and they help the 3 give it it’s the wide-body look. The model I had the honor to test had the 18” alloy rims finished in black which went exceptionally well with the Polymetal gray body color. The 2019 Mazda3 finally adopts the all-new Kodo design. The Japanese styling is on point and not in your face about it at the same time. There aren’t any swooping, sharp body lines as you usually see these days on sporty cars, but the silhouette of the 3 is what definitively separates itself from the pack — nothing else in its class like it.

When hopping inside, the sleek styling continues. The Mazda3 seemed to be the only vehicle of Mazda’s 2019 line-up to have the slightly upgraded and tweaked interior. This interior is with the times and well thought out while the other models were a tad dated and a little annoying. In the Mazda6 Signature, the armrest was set a little too far back for your arm to sit comfortably. The CX-9s infotainment system was the previous version, and the cameras were low resolution and tough to use. This was not the case in the Mazda3, as Mazda clearly saw these flaws and gave the driver a clear, almost 4k like back-up camera, and an adjustable center armrest with plenty of cargo space. The red leather accents throughout the dash and door panels, color matching the seats, set a very luxurious and high-end feel. The infotainment is clean, modern, and user-friendly. Android Autoplay and Apple CarPlay work fine, but I found myself using Mazda’s software as it just looked more natural to the inside of the car. Digital tachometer doesn’t look digital at all and is wildly smooth. The quietness of the cabin is one of the first things I noticed when driving. It is quiet. Scary quiet. The cabin was designed with a “double insulated” structure. Engine noise and road noise are reduced immensely. Being 6’1”, I didn’t feel cramped, and visibility was ample. As for the back seats, don’t expect your taller passengers not to complain when squeezed back there.

2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3
2019 Mazda3

Driving

Out of the two engines offered for the 3, 2.0L and 2.5L, I was given the 2.5L. 186hp and 186 ft/lbs of torque powering all four wheels with the i-ACTIV AWD.  Seven seconds after the light turns green you can be at 60mph, and for a bit of added fun, you can give the paddle shifters a flick, or 6.  It’s a hair faster than its competition, the Honda Civic Touring, which comes with a 1.5L turbocharged engine. As fun as a turbo is in most cars, its fastened to a snooze-fest of a CVT engine. I can go on for hours about how annoying the CVT engine is, but I won’t, today. The Mazda 3 after 4000rpm sounds nice, and maybe after a few minor upgrades, it can sound great on the daily. The G-Vectoring Control Plus, MacPherson struts, and a newly developed torsion bar in the rear keep the Mazda 3 planted and in control when cornering hard; it’s quite impressive. It gives the driver plenty of control regardless of the circumstance. The safety features seem endless. With a plethora of acronyms on the invoice, just know you will be safe out there. Lane-keep assist, Auto breaking at low speeds, Rear Cross-traffic sensors, Driver fatigue warning, Windshield active driving display, and the list goes on.

Summary

For my money, there isn’t a car that will make you feel special like the Mazda 3 will in this class and for this price point. You’ll forget you’re sitting in a Mazda. The only thing I could muster up to criticize is the lack of excitement. It holds itself together well. No loud noises. No aggressive and darty steering. The engine has some “pick-up-and-go” but nothing surprising. A turbo would be nice to get the juices flowing. Other than that, the 3 is an exceptional car for Mazda. It shows the progression Mazda is making, and it’s setting a new standard for this, and other classes. Here’s to hoping the competition sees the progress and steps up their game, because currently, Mazda’s getting my money.

Key Features

  • As tested: $33,295 (Fully loaded)
  • Fuel Economy: 9.8L/100km (City) 7.4L/100km (Highway)
  • 2.0l SKYACTIV-G
    • 155 hp @ 6000 rpm
    • 150 ft-lbs torque @ 4000 rpm
  • 2.5l SKYACTIV-G
    • 186 hp @ 6000 rpm
    • 186 ft-lbs torque @ 4000 rpm
  • 8.8” MAZDA CONNECT infotainment screen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard
  • Available 12 speaker BOSE premium audio system
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2019 Mini Clubman – Automotive Review

Samantha Syrenne

Samantha Syrenne

2019 Mini Clubman – Automotive Review

A small car with a big personality. “Even Barbie would trade in her hot pink Volkswagen beetle for a more sophisticated Mini Clubman.”

Summary

From the outside, the Clubman looks like a small vehicle that would be a tight fit, but once inside, you would be pleasantly surprised. The best part is while driving; somehow, everything coming at you doesn’t feel like it’s a monster truck! Mini Clubman’s signature bubbles are just a part of what makes this vehicle fun, just look at how many cars are bringing on that slick circular look. While the touchscreen and Apple Carplay, will have those speakers and you singing some sweet summer tunes all the way to a golf tournament. The unique trunk is what first caught my attention.  The Clubman’s exclusive vertical split, double doors open nice and wide, providing easy access to a compact space just big enough for those items you found at the farmers market. However, if you need any more room than that, the 40:40:20 split back seats will have to come down. To give you an idea of how much space there is in the back, my compact umbrella stroller wouldn’t fit without the backseat being folded down. Those with multiple kids would not find this vehicle very efficient for their needs, but then again, not every car is made to be a mom mobile. Driving the Clubman was fun and free, making me feel like I was always headed to the beach on a perfect summer day. It’s peppy, relaxing, and gets you to where you are heading. I bet even Barbie would trade her hot pink Volkswagen beetle for a more sophisticated Mini Clubman.

Highlights

Have you ever looked at the nose of a vehicle and thought that is one mean looking car? Well, I guarantee that will never happen with the Mini Clubman.  What it will have is a brand new hexagonal radiator grille, and LED fog lights.  The car is meant to be customized and made to perfectly suit your taste, with things like; LED rear lamps that can come with the optional union jack design or a range of stripe designs and roof colors and graphics.

2019 MINI Clubman - Exterior #1
2019 MINI Clubman - Exterior #4
2019 MINI Clubman - Exterior #3
2019 MINI Clubman - Exterior #2
2019 MINI Clubman - Exterior #5

Comparisons

  • Toyota C-HR $23,675 CND
    • 7.5L/100km Highway
    • 8.7L/100km City
  • Volkswagen Golf GTI $30,845 CND
    • 7.3L/100km Highway
    • 9.8L/100km City
  • Fiat 500x $31,995 CND
    • 7.9L/100km Highway
    • 10.0L/100km City

Options

  • MINI Cooper ALL4 Clubman
    • Starting at $28,690 CND
    • 3 Cylinder 134hp Twin Power Turbo Technology
  • MINI Cooper S ALL4 Clubman
    • Starting at $31,690 CND
    • 4 Cylinder 189hp Twin Power Turbo Technology
  • John Cooper Works ALL4
    • Starting at $38,190 CND
    • 4 Cylinder 228hp Twin Power Turbo Technology
2019 MINI Clubman - Interior #3
2019 MINI Clubman - Cargo
2019 MINI Clubman - Interior #1
2019 MINI Clubman - Interior #2

Tech & Safety

Standard 6.5” touchscreen, with an LED ring that changes it color in response to many things happening to the Clubman, like changing the climate, accelerating, or an incoming call. Safety features like the dynamic stability control, and electronic brake force distribution helps your car react, to external driving conditions and provide a safer more responsive drive. Combine that with the standard ALL4 All-Wheel Drive system and you have a car that can react faster than the best race car driver.

Key Features

  • 134hp standard to 228hp in the John Cooper Works ALL4
  • Standard Clubman All4
    • 8.8 L/100km City
    • 6.8 L/100km Highway
  • 360 L Cargo with 1250 L with the back seats folded down
  • Available Heads Up Display
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