2019-Mercedes-Benz-CLS-53-AMG-Cover

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG – Automotive Video Review

2019-Mercedes-Benz-CLS-53-AMG-Cover

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG – Automotive Video Review

"With the new 53-series models we are extending our portfolio in a first step towards a hybridized future with a leading-edge combination of sporty design, performance and efficiency… “ - Tobias Moers

The most impressive innovation found in the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG is the new, electrified 3.0-litre engine that offers twin-turbocharging by way of a traditional exhaust gas turbocharger and the new electric auxiliary compressor. This provide almost instantaneous boost, as when the CLS 53 is starting at zero, the electric auxiliary compressor can immediately build up a high-pressure charge, delivering a faster increase in torque for acceleration until the large conventional exhaust gas turbocharger is deployed. As a result, the CLS 53 is able to zip around, with a glorious turbo lag-free response. It is as if this car gets all the benefits of both a supercharger and a turbo for all our lead foot needs. The new 3.0 L. engine provides the CLS 53 with 429 hp and a maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. The electrified EQ Boost starter-alternator briefly provides an additional 21 hp, plus 184 lb-ft of torque while still feeding the new 48 V on-board electrical system. This impressive new system clearly works as the CLS 53 4MATIC+ rockets from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

The newly available 48 V on-board electrical system is also available to provide the CLS 53 with more robust traditional functions like; shifting, gliding and restarting of the engine by the start/stop function.

The new Mercedes CLS 53 features the twin-blade, silver chrome radiator grille, previously reserved for the V8 Performance models. As standard, the CLS 53 comes with 19-inch light-alloy wheels with optional 20-inch wheels available to add another layer of opulence if you so wish

The optional ENERGIZING comfort control is another interesting highlight on this vehicle. It links together the numerous comfort systems in the vehicle and harmonizes their specific functions such as; air conditioning and seating heating, cooling, and massaging, steering wheel heating, lighting and audio. Depending on your selection it generates a unique environment that Mercedes claims can enhance well-being and the drivers experience.

Finally, the CLS 53 4MATIC+ features the latest generation driving assistance systems pioneered in S-Class. Standard features are Active Braking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and ATTENTION ASSIST. Other standard features include PRE-SAFE®, the occupant-protection system, and the new PRE-SAFE® Sound, which prepares your hearing for any accident noise when the car believes there is a risk of a collision.

Key Features:

  • MSRP $92,000
  • 3.0-litre 6-cylinder in-line engine
  • 429 hp at 6100 rpm with and additional 21 hp of boost
  • 384 lb-ft at 1800-5800 rpm with an additional 184 lb-ft available
  • AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.5 s
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Automotive Reviews Car Video
2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Cover

2019 Mercedes-Benz A220 – Automotive Review

2019-Mercedes-Benz-A-220-Cover

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.

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.

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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Automotive Reviews Compact
2019_Toyota_RAV4_Trail-Cover

2019 Toyota RAV4 – Automotive Review

2019_Toyota_RAV4_Trail-Cover

2019 Toyota RAV4 – Automotive Review

The 2019 Toyota Rav4 Trail AWD is ready to hit the dirt.

Looks:

The 2019 Toyota Rav4 is here in a fifth-generation model, with a bold new design, one that many people are happy to see. The Toyota RAV4 has been one of those vehicles that people see on the roads every day and it started to blend into the background. Over the past few years, the Canadian built Rav4 has kept the competition at bay and has been the best-selling vehicle in its class. This Rav4 is quite exciting, sleek body lines, lower, a little wider and longer making this more aerodynamic. Swept-back headlights and a more aggressive front end are just some of the changes made. The rear lift-gate features a one-touch operation that has selectable memory height settings, perfect for my family where my wife had it set so low I could barely get my arm in and I had it set so she would need a step ladder to close it.

The Trail edition takes the Rav4 a little further into the backcountry so the average outdoor enthusiast can enjoy what others have and still have a comfortable vehicle on the road.                                       

In The Cab:

Ample use of soft-touch materials used throughout the interior. Comfortable front seats and rear seats that take in to consideration the comfort of your passengers. 60/40 split fold-down with reclining seatbacks that are just as comfortable as the front seats and lots of legroom too. The driver’s seat is a six-way power-adjustable, and the cargo area has a capacity of 1.09m and 2.08m with the rear seats folded down.

Safety first:

Many safety items are standard in this Rav4. Dual-stage driver and passenger airbags, driver knee airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, roll-sensing front, and rear head/ side curtain airbags. Star safety system includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. There are also lane departure alert, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert available as an option, which I think should be standard on all new models.

Roadworthy:

I am impressed with how comfortable the interior is. You can hold a conversation with your children in the back without having to yell over the road noise. I found the 4 cylinder engine to be smooth and responsive although when the Rav4 is called upon to pass or travel up a hill under load, the engine does make a whiney roar and is very noticeable in the cabin.

Verdict:

Improving upon a vehicle that has a proven track record, while keeping up with the latest technologies, one reason Toyota continues to be so popular today.

Power:

A 2.5 Litre, 4 cylinder gas engine with 203 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque mated to an 8 speed automatic electronically controlled transmission with sequential shift mode.

Pump frequency:

9.2/7.1 L/100 km (city/highway) 

Warranty support:

Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km

Powertrain 60 months/ 100,000 km

Corrosion peroration Unlimited km

Sticker price:

Trail Edition $38,960 CAD

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Automotive Reviews SUV
2019 Nissan Qashqai - Cover

2019 Nissan Qashqai – Automotive Review

2019 Nissan Qashqai - Cover

2019 Nissan Qashqai – Automotive Review

The Nissan Qashqai is Nissan's 2nd most popular model, behind the better-in-every-way Rogue.

With virtually identical safety features, front ends, and interiors, it would almost make more sense to go with the Rogue for the more appealing style, space, and engine. Pricing isn’t very far off from the two also. So, why did Nissan green light the mass production of a car that is virtually identical to a vehicle they’ve already perfected? An even better question is: Why are people buying it?


Coming in at a whole foot and an inch shorter than the Rogue, the Qashqai will fit five average-sized people very comfortably. The styling is best described as a “Toned down version of the Rogue.” How many times will I mention the Rogue in this article? Keep reading to find out. The front and rear end are very alike. The side profile is when you see the subtle difference in the shapes. The Qashqai takes a sloping roof design and the hood is noticeably shorter.

The Nissan Safety Shield 360 and the ProPILOT Assist keep you in your lane and away from the careless drivers out there. The Safety Shield 360 includes the Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Intelligent Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and High Beam Assist. On the inside, dead center between your RPMs and your speed, all of these safety features are displayed for your viewing pleasure (and safety of course). The 7.0” touch screen infotainment system is smooth and intuitive, and the nine-speaker Bose sound system is impressive. The Around View Cameras are displayed on this 7.0” screen but the resolution is a tad suspect. This isn’t just a Nissan issue, but a large group of cars and manufacturers in 2019 still have low-resolution cameras as back-up and around view cameras and its quite annoying. The dash and interior are identical to the Rogue with the glossy black accents and a nice, soft, and sporty designed steering wheel. And, the seats are comfortable as all get out. The leather is soft and whatever is under it is even softer.


The Qashqai runs a 2.0L 4-cylinder, 141hp engine. 4-wheel Independent strut suspension is the culprit of the smooth ride and somewhat “darty” steering. The CVTC (Continuously Variable Timing Control) is rough. It works the way it should, but the drone of any CVT is something I don’t think I will get used to. Just like every other CVT, when slowly letting off the gas, the weird surge of power shows up. It sure is fuel efficient though, with fuel economy ratings estimated at 8.1 L/100 km highway and 10.0 L/100 km city. Better than the already very fuel-efficient Rogue. The Qashqai comes in an Xtronic Transmission or a six-speed manual in the FWD models. It’s a competent car for the weekend go-getters.

The Nissan Rogue and the Nissan Qashqai (Rogue Sport in the US) have many similarities. In every aspect of the car, you can find a handful and more similarities, but the Qashqai has its own personality. It seems to stray away from the “perfect family” vehicle and cruise in the lane of “adventure seeker.” It has more space in all the right places to hold your weekend activities, but it also brings you the convenience and modern styling of any new car on the market, all while not breaking the bank. It comes in 3 trims and there are plenty of balloon-like colors to choose from

Key Features:

  • 2.0L 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower 141 @ 6,000 rpm
    • Torque (lb-ft) 147 @ 4,400 rpm
  • Fuel Economy
    • Xtronic AWD City/highway/combined 9.1/7.6/8.4 L/100km
    • Xtronic FWD City/highway/combined 8.6/7.2/8.0 L/100km
    • 6 MT FWD City/highway/combined 10.1/8.1/9.2 L/100km
  • Available AWD
  • 5 passenger
    • Cargo w/2nd row seat folded down (S 61.1) (SV/SL 53.3) cubic feet
    • Cargo w/2nd row seat upright (S 22.9) (SV/SL 20) cubic feet
  • 7″ multi touch NissanConnect® featuring Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™
    • Optional Bose® Audio System with 9 speaker
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Automotive Reviews SUV
2019 Honda Passport - Cover

2019 Honda Passport – Automotive Review

2019 Honda Passport - Cover

2019 Honda Passport – Automotive Review

Equipped with traveling appendages, I decided to put the Passport to the ultimate test. However, to really test this Passports limits, I figured I would get three friends to accompany me. Four grown size adults on a four-day road trip, let’s see how this goes.

Oddly enough, with a companion having an expired passport, our journey was going to be limited. We decided to head to the interior of beautiful British Columbia, with our stops being Logan Lake, Kamloops, Falkland, and Shuswap Lake as our final destination.

Not to be confused with the Honda Pilot, the Passport sits in that sweet spot between the sub-compact CRV and the Pilot. However inside you would never notice. It’s incredibly spacious; however, there is a big difference, not having that third row of seating.

Scrambling to pack my gear and items, I managed to include everything you can imagine to the very last tee. I brought games, I brought bug spray, and I even brought a roll of duct tape because- you just never know.

This Honda Passport Touring featured a Thule(R) ski-rack for extra storage capacity. While the trunk measured at 1,430 (L) cargo volume; this was more than efficient for our gear, the extra storage made it even more comfortable. We were able to utilize the over 1500 millimeter shoulder room in the rear seats and 1000 millimeter headroom in the front. With seating capacity at five grown adults, the comfortability was entirely optimal.

While we had a three-hour journey ahead of us before our first stop, equipped inside the Honda Passport Touring edition was WiFi capability thanks to HondaLink. Having WiFi is an excellent feature, especially on road trips.

Once we arrived at Logan Lake, we decide to go slightly off the beaten path. Taking a minor detour onto a dirt path demonstrated that the Passport handles it with ease. The tight wheel to body clearance navigates the rocks and body sway particularly well. The overall ride comfort is one of the best in the Honda Lineup. However taking the Passport on any more than dirt mixed with a couple rocks and you might be in for a rough ride due to the low clearance and sway. With a firm suspension I was pleasantly surprised by the control throughout nevertheless.

After spending the night lakeside, we quickly made our way toward Kamloops. Powering the drivetrain is a 3.5-litre V6 engine. The acceleration is smooth and quick. The Passport registers a 0-100 at 6.8 seconds. Accompanied with a nine-speed transmission the shifting is fast and seamless. There are also steering wheel paddles to offer that manual shift feel. With the 280 horsepower we made excellent time on our journey- not to insinuate that I was speeding. Once our brief stop at Kamloops was complete, we were off towards the small town of Falkland. Driving aids like the blind spot detection and lane-keeping assist were quite the assets on our trek. The multiple drivability technology was important when driving through some fog on the highways were visibility is limited. The adaptive cruise control worked well on lengthy straightaways in combination with blind-spot detection in limited visibility weather.

In Falkland, we optimized our fishing reels and only managed to catch a cold. Wasting 7 hours of casting and reeling, the scenery of the mountains was a nice consultation. We needed to fuel up for our second time here, which I must say wasn’t the most impressive fuel efficiency. At 11L/100km the Honda Passport is deemed average in comparison to its mid-size crossover competitors. At long last we reached our final destination of Shuswap.

While in Shuswap, we got to utilize the boat that we had been towing throughout the trip. Oh, did I not mention that we were pulling a small boat and trailer? Yes, that’s because with the towing rating at 5,000lbs our boat was weightless enough I barely would notice it.

We had a great trip, and we recommend the Honda Passport for those looking for that middle ground of size, comfortability, and utility. Equipped with a plethora of features and extras, the Passport is suitable for any family getaway. 

Key Features:

  • V6 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC®
    • 280 hp @ 6000 rpm and 262 lb-ft torque @ 4700 rpm
    • City 12.5 L/100KM
    • Highway 9.85 L/100KM
  • Available Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ (i-VTM4®) AWD System
  • Ground Clearance (2WD/AWD,) 7.5 in / 8.1 in
  • Towing Capacity (2WD/AWD) 3500 lbs / 5000lbs
  • Seating Capacity 5
    • Headroom (front/rear) 40.1 in / 40.1 in
    • Legroom (front/rear) 40.9 in / 39.6 in
  • Cargo Volume
    • behind 2nd-row 41.2 cu ft
    • behind 1st-row 77.9 cu ft
  • Apple CarPlay™/ Android Auto™
  • Available AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot
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Automotive Reviews SUV

2019 Ford Expedition – Automotive Review

2019 Ford Expedition – Automotive Review

First light on a sunny summer Saturday morning, a hint of smoke in the air from the wildfires burning in the North, We set out on our Expedition to Vancouver Island in the 2019 Ford Expedition.

Enough room for six of us to fit quite comfortably. I like the fact the second row had the optional bucket seats without a center console; third-row passengers can quickly get out without having to move the second seat. The seats did have the tilt and slide option, but it wasn’t required. Arrived at the Horseshoe bay terminal early and gave them our reservation number, I can’t imagine taking a chance without reservations especially these days with so much traffic coming and going from the island. A short wait, and we soon found ourselves on board the Coastal Renaissance ferry. After a few hours we had crossed the Straight Georgia and were ready to disembark. Using the Ford voice-activated navigation system, I entered our next destination, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Parksville. Heading through Nanaimo and onto the island highway I noticed how smooth the acceleration was and how quick the ten-speed transmission shifted. Powered by a 3.5L EcoBoost engine the Expedition produces 400hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, which provides plenty of power for this vehicle. The Rathtrevor Park is 347 hectares in size, which includes 2 kilometers of coastline and a magnificent sandy beach.

We spent some time just walking along the shore and looking at all the views, but there was more to see, so off we went. Heading west we entered Cathedral Grove and were surrounded by 75m tall Douglas Fir trees. I could only imagine what the first explorers thought when they first came across these magnificent trees. The first Ford Expedition came out in 1997 to replace the full-size Bronco. The base model came with a 4.6L V8 that produced 215hp and fuel economy that would have you thinking twice before you drove it. Despite this the Expedition has been one of the longest-lasting vehicles on the road. We were hiking along the trails through all the green moss and boston ferns with the towering trees going up what seems like forever. Nature gives us a sense of being at peace, and everybody was silent as we walked just taking in all the beauty. We passed a few people, and I don’t think they even noticed us as they too were in awe with the scenery.

We followed the trail back to our vehicle and continued with a quick stop in Port Alberni to get some supplies and then on to Tofino. Following the Pacific Rim Highway we made our way to Sprout Lake, which is home for the Martin Mars Water Bombers. If you find yourself with some time on your next trip to Tofino, stop at the visitor center on Bomber Base Road, and you will be amazed at how big these planes are. Just before Tofino you drive through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve with great views of beaches and ocean waves. A few minutes later you enter Tofino. Lots to see and do here, walks along the beach, hiking trails through the forest and just hanging out with people that know how to take life more relaxed and enjoy, I wish we had planned for more time but our day has come to an end, so we headed back to the grind. The hustle and bustle of our daily lives, which is Vancouver, but we will never forget to reflect on our Expedition and look forward to our next.

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Automotive Reviews SUV
2019 Jaguar F-Type

2019 Jaguar F-Type – Automotive Review

2019 Jaguar F-Type

2019 Jaguar F-Type – Automotive Review

This quintessential Jaguar all aluminum sports car, comes in so many variations, there is something for almost everyone

Overview/Summary

From a turbocharged 4-cylinder kitty, to a roaring 575hp SVR lion, the Jaguar F-Type is the classic sportscar you expect from Jaguar. With a long history of sexy coupes and convertibles the F-type easily picks up the pouncing cat logo and runs with it. We got the chance to drive multiple different models in different configurations, and each one completely satisfied that sportscar itch. Getting behind the wheel of the F-Type SVR, kicking it in sport mode and dropping the top I was grinning from ear to ear; with each eye widening roar from under every overpass on Hwy 1 back from Vancouver… Don’t even get me started on the sound it made in the tunnel

 (+) – Available in so many different options, there is a F-Type for everyone

(-) – Classic 2-seater sportscar, don’t expect to have many guests

Highlights

Only real new thing in the 2019 is the Touch Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch touchscreen.

Comparisons (F-Type SVR – CAD 143,500.00 As Tested)

  • 2019 Porshe 911 Carrera – $111,000 – 4.2s 0 – 100 km/h
  • 2019 Mercedes SL 550 Roadster – $128,900 – 4.3 sec 0-100 km/h
  • 2019 Aston Martin Vantage – £123,850.00 – 3.6 sec 0-100 km/h

The Jaguar F-Type was a really fun car to drive around town. It was low to the ground and had a tight glove like sports car type feel, but when you want that, this jag is what you are looking for. Sure, it’s maybe not an economic friendly daily drive, but that is not what this car wants to be. The F-Type wants to be both seen and heard, and when you are behind the wheel, that is completely okay.

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Automotive Reviews Car Video
2019 Nissan Kicks

2019 Nissan Kicks – Automotive Review

2019 Nissan Kicks

2019 Nissan Kicks – Automotive Review

The Nissan Kicks is coming in hot with a fun and perky attitude.

With efficiency and affordability in mind, the Kicks will get you from point A to point B without hurting the bank. Compact size and responsive steering will get you in and out of the busy city with ease. It was hard to find anything negative to say about this car. From the moment you see this car to the moment you hit the lock button, you know precisely what this cars job is, and it does it well.

The boxy styling of the Kicks is adorable. The ground clearance is ample, and the ride is excellent. It’s a shame it isn’t available in all-wheel drive but given the fact that it isn’t the most powerful car, front-wheel drive suffices. Trunk space is more than convenient, and the headroom available is fantastic. From the outside the Kicks looks small, but when sitting in the driver seat you notice the space. Well done, Nissan. The Bose speakers in the headrest are the feature you never knew you needed. That being adding to the already great sound system, even the local radio station will sound premium. You won’t be getting the same novel-like list of safety features like the lane-keep assist, or the semi-autonomous steering that the Rogue or Qashqai offer but the around view monitor, blind-spot warning, ABS, and TCS will keep safe. Leather seats are comfortable, but the one complaint I have is the armrest. It’s a smidge too high, making you hike your shoulder into an unnatural position, for me at least. Making it adjustable, or even getting rid of it altogether and using a storage compartment as an armrest could do the 2020/2021 model some good.

Every 2019 Nissan Kicks comes standard with the 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). The engine is rated at 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a smooth, fuel-efficient Xtronic transmission, fuel economy is anticipated at 33 mpg combined. The best way to describe this car is “Go-Kart with leather seats.”

The Kicks will not be your first choice for track day, but it can be your first choice when it comes to your daily drive. It’s cozy, it’s perky, it’s fun, and it’s affordable. Heated leather seats and an excellent sound system are great additions for anyone looking for value. Toss in a touch-screen infotainment system and a fun exterior color, and this is at the top of your list when searching for your next ride!

Model tested: $25,498

Models available: S, SV, SL

Fuel Economy combined: 33mpg

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Automotive Reviews Crossover
2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR - Cover

2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR – Video Review

2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR - Cover

2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR – Video Review

“The latest creation to come from SVO’s state-of-the-art Technical Center is the F‑PACE SVR – the ultimate Jaguar performance SUV.”

Key Features

  • MSRP $92,000 CND
  • 5.0-Liter V8 550 HP
  • 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3
  • F-PACE SVR 8-speed automatic QuickShift transmission
  • F-PACE All-Wheel Drive system uses Intelligent Driveline Dynamics software for agile handling and to minimize understeer.
  • Perforated Windsor leather
  • F-TYPE-inspired Variable Valve Active Exhaust System featuring quad tailpipes
  • Optional 22” Forged alloy wheels
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Automotive Reviews SUV Video
2019 Mazda3 - Cover

2019 Mazda3 – Automotive Review

2019 Mazda3 - Cover

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.

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.

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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