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2018 Ford F150 Power Stroke Diesel – Automotive Review

Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

2018 Ford F150 Power Stroke Diesel – Automotive Review

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.

Looks

Bold stance, sculpted LED headlights and stylized grille complete the front end of this truck. The aluminum body is stamped and bent into shape to create strength but it also generates the unique shape that makes Ford trucks standout from previous versions. Optional tailgate step, lift assist and remote tailgate release makes real-world tasks much easier and soon people will ask how they managed to do without these improvements.

Interior

As you climb into the cabin you immediately notice the refinements that have been made. Things such as; soft touch buttons, easy to use touch screen and accessibility of everything from a comfortable driving position.

It’s clear Ford designers have taken everything into consideration to give you the best driving experience possible. Now that doesn’t exclude passengers who also have easy access to everything needed including temperature controls and seat adjustability. Our tester featured a premium B&O audio system that has 10 speakers, AM/FM stereo, and a single CD/MP3 player

F-150 Rolls off the Line
2018 F-150 Power Stroke Diesel
2018 F-150 Power Stroke Diesel

Safety

Front driver and passenger airbags, side curtain and seat-mounted airbags. Power four-wheel vented disc anti-lock brakes. Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking is standard. Available adaptive cruise control, pro trailer backup assist, a 360-degree camera with split view display, FordPass connect with WIFI modem to connect up to 10 devices are some of the safety features in this F150.

Engine

3.0L power stroke V6 with 250 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Biodiesel capability to B20. This engine features a larger turbocharger that accommodates high air flow to maximize power and maintain performance at high altitudes where the air is thinner than at sea level. Add a high-pressure common rail fuel injection system, high-pressure fuel pump, lightweight aluminum cylinder heads, and fuel injector tips designed to deliver precise fuel atomization you have one sweet motor.

2018 Ford F150 Diesel Power Stroke - Interior
2018 Ford F-150 Limited
2018 Ford F-150 Limited

Fuel economy

  • 10.8L /100km City 8.0L /100km Highway  (4×2)
  • 11.8 /100km City 9.3L /100km Highway   (4×4)

The Drive

Close the doors and you would swear you’re driving with a gas engine, very little noise thanks to the engineers that designed this motor in England. You will find similar motors powering SUV’s all over Europe. This F150 is smooth and comfortable to drive, climbing hills with no effort powering its way up without dropping in speed. Excellent visibility to see all around and with the accident avoidance technology, you can be reassured this Ford has your back as you drive. With great fuel economy, tremendous power and outstanding towing capabilities I would say this truck a winner and it gets my vote as the truck of the year.  

Price

$86,129.00 as tested

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2018 Dodge Durango SRT – Automotive Review

Jared Syrenne

Jared Syrenne

2018 Dodge Durango SRT – Automotive Review

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.

This is one beautiful SUV, where everything is functional and highly refined. With the wide rectangular front grill and LED headlamps, and the full-width tail lamp, the classic Dodge Detroit muscle car styling can be found everywhere on the Durango. The SRT takes this styling even further with large 15” red Brembo performance brakes, 20” gloss black rims on Pirelli 295/45ZR20 Scorpion Verde’s, and a widebody exterior with a hood featuring a functional cold-air duct and heat extractors.

“This is what you get when you take everything great about the Durango and combine it with the performance of the Charger SRT: a 12-second quarter mile, 8,700-pound-toy hauling, three-row muscle car.”

-Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA N.A.

2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT

The SRT badge is positioned as the ultimate in performance of the Dodge brand, and the SRT Durango lives up to the expectations. Featuring the time-tested and well received, 6.4L 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8, delivering in this situation 475 horsepower with 470 lb.-ft. of torque and an impressive NHRA certified 4.4-second 0-60 mph time. Possible when combined with technology like the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, and track Mode providing 160-millisecond shifts and up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels for the most pronounced rear-wheel-drive experience. Even the exhaust is tuned to offer an unmistakably deep, high-performance Dodge SRT exhaust note modeled after the Dodge Charger SRT. While to make things more rational there is the Fuel Saver Technology with cylinder-deactivation seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode and the track inspired V-8 when demanded.

The impressive styling and quality are continued on throughout the interior, with Durango SRT featuring heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs for six-passenger seating. Large families will find the captain’s chairs with pass through especially helpful as multiple car seats can be latched into each of the second-row seats, and there’s still easy pass-through for passengers to access the third row. Keeping the minions entertained and quiet is easy with the class-exclusive Blu-ray video rear entertainment system. On the back of front headrest is an HD 9” screen. With the provided inputs for HDMI or RCA, passengers can watch their media or play their gaming systems independently on each screen. Parents will be extra thankful of the included wireless headphones and remote. The specific SRT styling can be found in the interior via the carbon fiber trim, the flat-bottom performance steering wheel with paddle shifters, premium SRT embroidered velour-bound floor mats, and suede-wrapped headliner and A-pillars.

2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT
2018 Dodge Durango SRT

Of course, while the Durango is styled like a muscle car this machine still has all the safety and tech that consumers require these days for peace of mind while transporting their families around safely and conveniently. With things like lane departure, parking assist, and stability control you know that there is support and systems in place that will help you while you undertake the critical role of a taxi driver for your passengers. In total there are over 60 available safety and security features that combined with Dodge’s 3 and 5-year warranty and 24hr roadside assistant will provide you with the peace of mind you deserve.

Key Features:

  • Dodge Durango SRT starting at $68,845 CND
  • 6.4L 392-cubic-inch HEMI V-8
    • 475 horsepower with 470 lb.-ft. of torque
    • 12.2L/100Km Hwy, 18.3L/100Km City, 15.6L/100Km Combined
  • 7-inch full-colour customizable in-cluster display centre
  • 8.4-inch touchscreen Uconnect® 4C NAV multimedia centre
    • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
  • 506 Watt Beats audio system
  • 3 Year / 60,000km Basic Warranty
  • 5 Year / 100,000km Powertrain Limited Warranty
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Conquest Vehicles – Automotive Review

Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

Conquest Vehicles – Automotive Review

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.

Do you really want to bug out in a plug-in Prius? William Maizlin is a Canadian entrepreneur who started the company; Conquest Vehicles Inc. Headquartered in Toronto, this facility houses some of the best engineers, fabricators, and technicians in the country. They build the ultimate, fully armored, ultra-luxurious SUV called the Knight XV. This extreme vehicle is not just a survival vehicle, but an impressive high-end machine. Catering to some of the wealthiest people on the planet that require all the comforts they are used too while knowing they will be protected on their way to a family barbeque while driving past the local ISIS terrorists or Mexican kidnappers.

Conquest Vehicles - Knight XV - Exterior
Conquest Vehicles - Knight XV - Exterior Rear
Conquest Vehicles - Evade - Exterior
Conquest Vehicles - Evade - Exterior Rear

There are two models to choose from. The Knight XV and the Evade. The Evade is there latest vehicle. The vehicle starts off as a Ford F550 chassis. The cab is removed and the custom built exoskeleton is installed. Everything is custom, right down to the door handles, steering wheel, and running boards that are CNC’d from stainless steel and billet aluminum. It offers a rugged military look on the outside with a pampered limousine-style interior. The seats are covered in Andrew Muirhead leather and can be adjusted to just about any position. The interior features wool carpet, slide out workstations, center console that holds an iPad (which can control most of the features on this vehicle), suede headliner, sunroof, slide out drawer with glasses and room for your favorite scotch, Sony PS4, built-in humidor for cigars, and a 32 inch flat screen TV that can be raised or lowered by the iPad.

Now how does it drive? well considering it is twice the size of a Hummer H2 I would say great at straight lines, but William says it is easy to maneuver around and handles just like a full-size SUV. With a full air suspension underneath and automatic leveling ability, the vehicle can travel down the highway without spilling its passenger’s drinks. The Armored version has a V7 rating, meaning it can stop an armor-piercing bullet at close range and the undercarriage can survive a hand grenade explosion, perfect for traveling through downtown Kabul on a pleasant Afghanistan night.

Conquest Vehicles - Hummer Comparison
Conquest Vehicles - Knight XV - Exterior - Keith Harris
Conquest Vehicles - Knight XV - Interior #2
Conquest Vehicles - Knight XV - Interior

If you are still wondering who would buy such a vehicle, the answer might surprise you. CEO’s of companies wanting something different, automotive collectors, and professional athletes, in the North American market. However, the clientele gets more diverse with the orders from China, South Africa, and the Middle East. The Saudi Royal family bought one and had it air shipped to them costing 50K in transportation. The company’s goal is to increase production from 20 vehicles per year to 100 with the Evade being featured in many automotive magazines around the world.

With a starting price of $579,000 USD, I’m not sure how many you will see on the streets of Vancouver.

Visit

www.conquestvehicles.com for more information!

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2018 Hyundai KONA – Automotive Review

Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

2018 Hyundai KONA – Automotive Review

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.

“Get a friendly aloha from this Mecca to you…”

– Beach Boys Kona Coast

Hyundai chose some interesting styling compositions. The decision to mold clunky plastic fender flares looks bad in my opinion and I would have preferred a continuation of the body paneling to be over the wheel-well like a typical vehicle. I understand the decision to look different and new, but I feel it missed the mark. The wide front grille is appealing, and combined with the slim aggressive LED headlights, gives the KONA the look of eye squinting focus. The rear end starts to lose that appeal and looks messier and more disorganized compared to the tight sleek front. Below the rear taillights are additional lights with indicators located separately. With the addition of the bulky molded plastic, the rear end looks too busy and doesn’t really catch the eye in a good way.

2018 Hyundai KONA 2.0L - Exterior Front
2018 Hyundai KONA - Exterior Front
2018 Hyundai KONA - Exterior Rear Side
2018 Hyundai KONA - Exterior Side
2018 Hyundai KONA - Exterior Rear

However, that is where my complaints end as equipped with the 1.6L turbo GDI engine this KONA provides a fun and practical amount of power. Ideal for zipping around town, the KONA wasn’t as gutless as it’s opponent the Honda HR-V. The transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and it shifts very smoothly. I was pleasantly surprised with the drive overall, as the all-wheel-drive combined with the multi-link rear suspension performed firmly and responsively. It’s particularly less top heavy then the Kia Soul, providing more control through corners. Also available is a turbocharged 2.0-litre. Having an estimated zero to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds is almost 2.5 seconds slower than the 1.6L GDI but combined with no AWD saves you about $7000 CND.

The interior will not blow you away, but that is not Hyundai’s intention. It was a safe design, giving every it features its occupants will need and making available all the features many will want. Nothing looks clustered, or busy, it just looks standard and typical. The infotainment screen can be between seven to eight inches in size depending on chosen spec. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and/or Android Auto is great when in use. With so many options available on the KONA compared to the competition, ensure to choose things like the heads-up display or the wireless charging, which can be worthy and useful upgrades.

2018 Hyundai KONA - Interior Front Seats
2018 Hyundai KONA - Interior Instrument Cluster
2018 Hyundai KONA - Interior Front Seats #2
2018 Hyundai KONA - Interior Infotainment System
2018 Hyundai KONA - Interior Cargo

Up against the likes of the Nissan Juke, Kia Soul, and the Mazda CX3; the fuel economy of the KONA is on par with the competition. With such small engines, it becomes hard to break out in this category. With that considered, showing that it’s close to identical in this category; this is an advantage for Hyundai. The KONA was a more pleasurable driving experience with the combination of swiftness and power without sacrificing fuel economy.

Overall, I was impressed with the Hyundai KONA. I can see a small family living in the city will find this vehicle ideal. It’s ability to keep up with traffic, being affordable, and under-sized for parking will delight its owner. With everything you need and want bundled into a small package at an affordable price point, it’s no wonder that these types of crossovers are an ever-growing in popularity amongst the public. I’ll say that I’m positive you will be seeing many KONA’s zipping around your city for sure.

Key Features:

  • 2018 KONA is Hyundai’s first global entry to the B-SUV segment
  • Starting from $20,999 CND
    • 0L four-cylinder engine
    • 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft. of torque.
    • 0L FWD City/Hwy/Combined 8.6/7.0/7.9
  • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
  • Starting at $27,274
    • 6T GDI engine.
    • 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque
    • 6T AWD City/Hwy/Combined 9.0/8.0/8.6
  • BlueLink telematics service
    • Accessed from: buttons on the rear-view mirror, the web or via a smartphone app
    • features like Remote Start with Climate Control, Local Search powered by Google, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Find My Car and Enhanced Roadside Assistance
    • *included in the Ultimate trim and is activated for a 5-year term from the date of purchase.
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2018 INFINITI Q60 – Automotive Review

Vince Sandhu

Vince Sandhu

2018 INFINITI Q60 – Automotive Review

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.

Design

The interior is on point. The front seat/cockpit is snug, driver-focused and functional. I never found myself overreaching for controls. The infotainment system is simple but a little cluttered. The leather seats are designed to keep your hands at 10 and 2 while being comfy enough for long drives. The rear seats are not easy to get in and out of but, that usually isn’t one’s concern when shopping for a 2-door car. Coupes, in general, usually have a problem with visibility and blind spots, but with the Around View® Monitor and the Moving Object Detection, it is no longer an issue in the Q60.

In my opinion, the major 2017 redesign of the Q60 exterior made it one of the best-looking coupes on the market. With the competition featuring massive mouthy grills and deep cut and swooping body lines, the Q60 is organic and eye-catching at the same time. Compact, sporty, with a low, mean stance, and you’ve got yourself a car that looks like it’s in its own league.

The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.

Driving

The Q60 comes with 3 pretty much different engines, but only one of them really matters. The new 400 hp 3.0-litre twin turbo V6, found only on the INFINITI Q60 Red Sport. The main difference is having a boost pressure of 14.7 psi, versus 9.5 psi for the 300-horsepower version. The impressive twin-turbo system enabled smooth and immediate responses under both careful and aggressive acceleration. The 100 hp will set you back almost $10,00 CND, but the 12.5 city/9.2hwy L/100km is only is almost the same as the standard 3.0l. V6.

The AWD system is clever and adaptive and if you want a bit more excitement there is an RWD option, but it is only available in the USA. Around corners, the Q60 stays planted with minimal body roll, but in the city, the ride isn’t the smoothest. The steering and suspension have been a common criticism, many saying it “feels numb”, and that is to do with INFINITI’s Direct Adaptive Steering. Essentially, DAS is a steering setup with no physical connection, just sensors, and switches. The system is constantly, automatically making subtle adjustments to increase stability but at the cost of feeling the road. The good thing about the DAS setup is that you can adjust the steering via the vehicle settings to fit your needs best. But no matter how much you adjust and tinker with the steering, it comes second in my mind to the feeling of a mechanical setup.

The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.
The Q60 brings INFINITI’s powerful design language into the sports coupe segment with remarkable success, with its daring curves, deep creases, and flowing lines intensifying its low, wide, powerful stance. The look is progressive and modern, yet dynamic and moving.

Summary

The Q60 is an eye-catching vehicle no doubt, but is 400hp worth the $60,000? With team Germany offering the comparably priced 320hp BMW 4 Series Coupe, and the 362hp Mercedes AMG C 43, the INFINITI Q60 represents a viable alternative to the leaders in sports coupes. I can say with confidence that (in my opinion), the Q60 has the competition on the ropes in the styling department. My final thought is that the Q60 is a great car, looks incredible and the engine sounds mean without being rambunctious and obnoxious. Its luxurious inside the cabin and is quiet on the highway, the steering situation can be something you get used to, the Q60 is worth a test drive for anyone looking for a sporty 2 door car.

Key Features

  • Starting at $46,295 CND for Q60 2.0T PURE AWD
    • $61,295 for the Q60 RED SPORT 400 AWD
  • Around View Monitor® (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)
  • Available twin-turbo V6 that can put up to 400 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft maximum torque at 1,600-5,200 rpm
  • With up to 336 customizable driver settings on the INFINITI Drive Mode Selector
  • The worldwide debut of the new Bose® Performance Series Audio System with Advanced Staging Technology
  • INFINITI Total Ownership Experience
    • Trip Interruption Benefits covering meal, lodging, and transportation costs if you break down more than 100 km from home
    • 24-hour Roadside Assistance
    • Complimentary Service Loan Car when you drop off your INFINITI for warranty repair
  • Basic Coverage is 48 months or 100,000 kilometers, (whichever comes first), for all parts and components of new INFINITI vehicles
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2019 Acura TLX – Automotive Review

Vince Sandhu

Vince Sandhu

2019 Acura TLX – Automotive Review

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.

To provide more “character and performance” Acura introduced a new trim level called A-Spec. Entry-level luxury sedans have been always a win-win for the masses. Luxurious interior, more power, and a sportier chassis gives everyone the best bang for their buck. BMW had an answer for all those amenities with their classic 3-series. They set the bar high over the years and became the go-to for that customer, but in the process, these types of cars have evolved into more of a luxury vehicle with even pricier options. The TLX could be the under the radar answer that you may be looking for.

The TLX’s styling is near the top of the list along with Audi and Mercedes. Introducing the new Signature Diamond Pentagon grille, replacing the bright satin finish grille. Dead center of the new grille is a large Acura emblem that hides the hardware for the Adaptive Radar Cruise control. The front end has become larger and larger over the years and it is noticeable, but it isn’t as theatrical as the Lexus’ front ends. Adding to the new front end are the re-shaped full LED headlights that help tie the front end together very meticulously as well as show you what’s ahead in the late hours of the night. Large dual-exhaust tips provide a very aggressive looking rear diffuser.

2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX

Inside the cabin, the optional red leather seats offer a nice pop to what some would usually call a boring and familiar interior. The dual level infotainment system survives the year-to-year updates but has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay added. The enhanced phone connection lives in the upper-level screen, which is not a touchscreen. You interact with it via the rotary knob that lives at the bottom of the center stack. The controversial push-button gear selector made its way into the 2019 model. It’s difficult to understand why Acura went with this setup of buttons when it takes up no less space than the conventional stick gear selector.

The TLX comes in a 2.4-litre 206-horsepower engine or a 3.5 litre 290-horsepower V6. The engine is tied a 9-speed ZF transmission which in turn, provides you with 267 ft-lbs of torque to play with. A 0-100km/hr run comes in at 6.1 seconds which is very similar to the comparably priced fully loaded Audi A4 which runs at an even 6 seconds.  Under low load, the TLX will decide to shut off 3 of the 6 cylinders to save your wallet at the pump when it comes to highway cruising. In the city the stop-start idle comes standard in the V6 models. Combined city/hwy driving, the 3.5L TLX sips a mere 9.8L/100km. As for the handling, when you decide to swing your SH-AWD around a corner with the throttle down, the instrument cluster will show you as more power is delivered to the rear outside wheel. The A-Spec package gets you firmer dampers and a re-tuned electric power steering system. A-Spec models with SH-AWD (in other words, all V6 models) get firmer springs and a more rigid rear stabilizer bar for better wheel and body control.

2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX
2019 Acura TLX

Starting at around $35,000 offers the most value for the TLX, but the fully loaded model reviewed above comes in at around $51,000. Which is fair when compared to a fully loaded sedan in the same class, like the previously mentioned comparable Audi A4. But other competitors at this price range such as the 400-hp INFINITI Q50 RED SPORT 400, or the classic 320hp BMW 340i xDrive might start making more sense if that is what price range you are shopping for. I find the TLX a great, well-designed sedan, with a great sounding engine and it feels nimble for something with 4 doors. The interior is nice and there are many options to make it unique to you. Acura offers lots of convenient tech to add also.

Key Features:

  • Starting at $36,890 CND
  • 2019 TLX SH-AWD Elite A-Spec $51,890 CND
    • 5L Direct Injection SOHC, i-VTEC® V6 Engine
    • 290 HP and 267 Ft Lbs. Torque
    • 0-100km/hr in 6.1 seconds
    • 4/7.7/9.8 City/Hwy/Combined
  • Cargo Volume 405L
  • Apple CarPlay™* and Android Auto™*
  • Available 490-watt, 10-speaker ELS Studio® Premium Audio System
  • Array of driver safety and assistive technologies, AcuraWatch™
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2018 Lincoln Continental - Exterior Cover
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2018 Lincoln Continental – Automotive Review

2018 Lincoln Continental - Exterior Cover
Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

2018 Lincoln Continental – Automotive Review

While a majority of buyers have been leaning towards affordable sedans; especially while automakers have been packing more luxury options than ever before. This remains true, however, their still is a slice of the market for full luxury. Insert Lincoln Continental.

While sharing the basic undercarriage as the Ford Fusion, the Lincoln Continental from the bottom up has an unmatched look of its own. 

From its early beginnings of a one-off, personal vehicle for Ford Motor Company president Edsel Ford in 1939. The Continental has since become the flagship luxury sedan. First brought back into the limelight in 2015 at the New York Auto Show as a concept to replace the previous Lincoln MKS; after its long cancellation in 2002. The concept car was infamous for its comparisons to the Bentley Continental GT (and not just in name) and has become the basis for the production of the 2017 Ford Continental. 

2018 Lincoln Continental
2018 Lincoln Continental - Exterior Front
2018 Lincoln Continental - Exterior Rear
2018 Lincoln Continental - Exterior

Now a year older, the 2018 Lincoln Continental has remodeled its package from the previous year. Four previously optional packages are now standard on specific trim options. The trims being the Premier, Select, Reserve and Black Label. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, navigation, and SiriusXM Travel Link are now standard on the Select Trim. While the Black Label trim contains additional Technology package and Climate package accompanied with a panoramic sunroof. Within these packages are lane assist, adaptive cruise control, heads-up display, automated emergency braking, self-parking, automatic headlights and dimming mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and heated seats throughout. All available models feature 4G LTE data connection with hotspot capability. As well as additional colors with some absurd names have been added: Iced Mocha, Ivory Pearl, Blue Diamond, and Rhapsody Blue. 

The engine base is a 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged V6. Capable of producing 355 horsepower, and 380 lb.-ft. Of torque. This comes with a fuel economy of 12.0L/100km combined highway and city driving. There’s also an optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 for the top level trims exclusively. Pushing the horsepower and torque to an even 400 each respectively. The tested Continental was, in fact, the top level option, and the power was sufficient for its price-point, however as many have criticized; I would have liked to see a fuel-efficient option available. 

2018 Lincoln Continental - interior dash
2018 Lincoln Continental - interior Rear seats
2018 Lincoln Continental - interior Driver seat
2018 Lincoln Continental - Interior Driver
2018 Lincoln Continental - interior speakers

Smooth and seamless is what you would describe the overall drivability. Comfort mode seemed to be the more favorable option while driving. Typically in a luxury sedan, the suspension feels loose to begin with and then with the additional comfort mode, most vehicles feel too loose. This wasn’t what I experienced in the Lincoln Continental under comfort mode. Moreover, the sport mode felt redundant. The increase in noise from the exhaust, high revolutions, and stiffness isn’t the purpose of this vehicle. 

Now I touched on the appearance drawing comparisons to Bentley’s styling; which when it made its debut in 2015, Bentley stated it was in fact a copy.

                       “Finally a ‘Bentley for the masses’ though…”

                                       -Bentley designer Luc Donckerwolke

To me, I wouldn’t say it’s a copy more so an ode. There are only so many design options, some are bound to be similar. Lincoln went with what they felt best represented true luxury. In order to obtain one of the more roomy cabin spaces, the length of the Continentals dimensions exceeds its competitors. Measuring at 201.4 inches in length and 78 inches wide, the Continental is at least 6 inches longer and 4 inches wider than its Audi, BMW, and Genesis counterparts. Their are just the right amount of chrome around the vehicle and the door handles are located distinguishably integrated the window sills is an amazing idea. They seemingly unlock under minimal pressure and almost just pop open. While closing features a soft close to the door as the mechanism clinched the latch closed automatically. This sounds like an unnecessary feature, but it’s unbelievably satisfying and extravagant. Almost reminiscent of a doorman at an exclusive hotel. The rear-end has one of the very few horizontal-style tail lights I find appealing. This may be due to the fact it’s slimmer than most and parallels an elegant chrome Lincoln embroidery. 

When it comes to the interior of the Continental, rear-seated passengers were part of the focus, not a side piece. While all in all, the entire cabin was extremely spacious and comfortable thanks to the excessive size throughout. It seemed, however, that design elements were an afterthought. With a mixture of wood grain, aluminum, chrome, and some plastic; Lincoln loses some of its sophistication here. With the Climate package, passengers get to enjoy heated seats entirely, rear audio control, and even massage and recline capability. Luxury treatment is also available for the front seats in the form of an all-new 30-way-adjustable Perfect Position. The transmission shifter remains a button system, also seen in the Ford Fusion. I hate this. There’s something unpleasantly unnatural about pushing a button for reverse. Ironically making me feel uncomfortable driving an otherwise extremely comfortable vehicle. 

Key Features:

  • Strating at $56 650
  • 7L twin-turbocharged V6
  • 335 horsepower, 380 lb.-ft. torque
  • 30-way-adjustable Perfect Position
  • 19″ Premium Painted Aluminum

 

 

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2018 Lexus IS 350 – Automotive Review

Jared Syrenne

Jared Syrenne

2018 Lexus IS 350 – Automotive Review

The 2018 Lexus IS 350 is a perfect example of Lexus’s commitment to today’s newest generation of luxury buyers. Already a strong player in the entry luxury segment, the IS 350 offers drivers a balance of power and handling with a more unique and eccentric Japanese styling. Aggressive lines and angles that stand out from the more common and traditional European luxury sedans.

The IS lineup is produced in the Tahara Toyota Motor plant, which is one of the most computerized and robotized automotive plants in the world. The plant is spread out over four million square meters, and it even has direct port access for more efficient international shipping. The Lexus brand represents the pinnacle of the already well-respected Toyota brand, with track like performance added to the top of the line quality and reliability expected from the company often quoted as the inventor of many of today’s manufacturing processes and standards.

Genesis G80 Sport - Exterior
Genesis G80 - Exterior
Genesis G80 - Exterior
Genesis G80 - Exterior

Test driving the Lexus IS 350, was quite enjoyable. It was exciting and responsive which helped bring some joy to what is normally a dreary commute. Our car came with the F Sport package, which included some further refinement in styling such as the dark mesh front grill and larger and more functional brake cooling ducts. The interior was also heightened with some sportier vented and heated front seats, a 3-spoke steering wheel, and fancy aluminum brake and gas pedals. The 10.3 display is controlled by the annoying Lexus Remote Touch input, while the haptic feedback was nice, I found myself continually overshooting the chosen icon and having to fiddle with it more than I would have liked too. The available 15-speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound Audio system provided home theater like quality, and the IS 350 includes all the features expected from a luxury sedan. The F Sport package also included some performance features like Sport S/S+ modes providing faster gear changes, with reduced body roll through Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) damping the force of the shock absorbers.

2018 Genesis G80 - Interior
2018 Genesis G80 - Interior
2018 Genesis G80 - Interior
2018 Genesis G80 - Interior

The Lexus IS 350 is powered by a 3.5L V6 producing 311 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of peak torque. The AWD models use a six-speed automatic transmission where the RWD model uses an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission. While this is plenty of power for the average daily drive, at this price point on paper the IS 350 does fall behind some of its direct competitors. 

Competition – Entry Level Performance Luxury (50-60k)

  • INFINITI Q50 Red Sport 400
    • Producing 400-hp from a 3.0-litre V6 capable of doing 0-100km/hr in 4.5sec
  • BMW 340i xDrive
    • Producing 320hp from a 3.0-litre V6 capable of doing 0-100km/hr in 4.9sec
  • Cadillac ATS Premium Luxury
    • With a 3.6L V6 335 hp engine capable of doing 0-100km/hr in 5.6 sec

Key Features:

  • Starting from $53,100 CND
  • 3.5L V6 with 311hp and 277lb-ft
  • 12.3/9.1/10.9 city hwy combined
  • Lexus Safety System Plus+
  • Heated and Air-Conditioned Front Sport Seats
  • Dimensions
    • Height 1430mm.
    • Length 4680mm.
    • Width 1810mm.
    • Gross Vehicle Weight 2125 Kg.
    • Cargo Capacity 306L.
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2018 Nissan 370Z NISMO – Automotive Review

Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

2018 Nissan 370Z NISMO – Automotive Review

Nissan 370Z is a back to basics sports car that puts serious yet affordable driving fun above everything else. At the top of Nissan's 370Z line is the NISMO, which provides access to straight-from-the-factory street and track performance inspired vehicles. With things such as the standard with 6-speed manual transmission and NISMO-tuned suspension, the 2018 Nissan 370Z NISMO is race-proven engineering at an attainable price point.

Main Changes for 2018

  • Dunlop SP Sport MAXX GT600 high-performance tires
    • Same tread pattern as the Nissan GT-R
  • EXEDY® L-PEC high- performance clutch

Key Features:

  • Nissan 307Z NISMO starting at $48,298 CAD
  • GT-R-inspired functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces
    • 0 inches longer and 1.0 inch wider than a standard 370Z Coupe
  • Three exterior colors are offered: Solid Red, Pearl White, and Magnetic Black.
  • Standard Advanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) systems
  • 7-litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL)
    • 350 hp @ 7,400 rpm
      • 18 horsepower more than a standard 370Z Coupe
    • and 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
  • Close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match
  • Fuel Economy
    • Combined 11.5L/100km
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2018 BMW 440i – Automotive Review

Jared Syrenne

Jared Syrenne

2018 BMW 440i – Automotive Review

The 2018 BMW 440i, a unique blend of sportiness and elegance, that can be built to suit the demands of even the pickiest consumer.

2018 brings a refreshing update to the 4 series line-up, which was first introduced in September 2013. With a notably wider stance and longer wheelbase than its predecessor, the BMW 4 series is available as a Coupé, Convertible, and a 4-door Gran Coupé.

“The maxim guiding the BMW 4 Series model update was ‘stick to the proven formula but add extra richness to the cars’ character’. That’s why the exterior design shines the spotlight most brightly on the dynamic and elegant qualities of the BMW 4 Series family”

                  -Domagoj Dukec, Head of Exterior Design BMW Automobiles.

Major Updates Include:

  • Restyled nose, keeping with the broad muscular almost bulldog BMW styling.
  • Larger central air intake that increases in size toward the exterior edges
  • Similar front headlights but now new bi-LED headlights as standard, with available Icon II full-LED adaptive headlights
  • Elongated design of the rear end with everything focusing on giving the impression of the car sitting wider, lower and having an enhanced muscular look
  • The rear LED lights are no longer divided into individual lights but are given a more cohesive look that tapers off towards the center.
  • Signal indicators take up more space, and the inner section of each rear light is now used for signaling as well
2018 BMW 440i - Coupe Exterior
2018 BMW 440i - Exterior Cabriolet
2018 BMW 440i - Exterior Grand Coupe
2018 BMW 440i - Coupe Exterior Rear

Exterior

New exterior paint finishes have been made available for the 2018 BMW 4-series. The first is called Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic, which is a new shade of turquoise, and the second is called Sunset Orange which is a burnt orangey-red color.

Interior

The interior of the BMW 440i was everything you would expect from a luxury import vehicle. With extra fine materials used throughout, the refresher for 2018 had only minor improvements like the finishes added to the air outlets, and the controls on the door panel. However, when sitting in this car you can tell there was an army of engineers who were tasked with ensuring maximum functionality of even the smallest unnoticeable details. Also new to 2018 is some additional interior colors, such as Midnight Blue, Cognac, and Ivory White, all complete with coordinated contrast stitching and piping. We tested the BMW 440i convertible in the new Snapper Rocks Blue mixed with the White Dakota leather interior, and it looked like the car was straight from Miami Vice. I swear the creamy white interior was getting dirt marks on it from just looking in the same direction as the car.

Driving

The 4 series has a lower center of gravity and a wider\longer wheelbase compared to the 3 series. Combine that with the stiffer M sports suspension with advanced damping technology and an upgraded steering set-up, the 440i drove more like a sporty coupe compares to a full sized 4-door sedan. All the engine options for the 4 series are from the latest modular BMW EfficientDynamics family and include the BMW TwinPower Turbo. The inline 6 found in the 440i coupe generates 320 hp and has an average combined fuel consumption rate of 9.6 l/100km. These engines are mated to a standard eight-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission, with an available six-speed manual gearbox for no-cost only on the BMW 4 Series Coupé.

2018 BMW 440i - Interior Cockpit
2018 BMW 440i - Interior Console
2018 BMW 440i - Interior Infotainment
2018 BMW 440i - Interior Instrument Cluster

Technology & Safety

Redesigned iDrive 6.0 infotainment system

  • Highlights include:
    • New main menu structure with configurable tiles featuring live content.
    • Intelligent Voice Control system including Natural Language Understanding.
    • Automatic over-the-air map updates up to 4x annually.

Key Features:

  • Pricing
    • 440i Coupé starting at $56,850 CND
    • 440i xDrive Gran Coupé starting at $57,550 CND
    • 440i xDrive Cabriolet starting at $71,050 CND
  • Power
    • Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9s (440i xDrive Coupé)
    • 320hp & 330 ft-lb of torque (440i xDrive Coupé)
  • Fuel
    • Combined in 9.6l/100 km (440i Coupé)
    • Combined in 9.6l/100 km (440i Grand Coupé)
    • Combined in 10.2l/100 km (440i Cabriolet)
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