2018 Mazda3 - Exterior
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2018 Mazda3 – Review

2018 Mazda3 - Exterior
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Jared Syrenne

2018 Mazda3 – Review

So much for so little. The Mazda3 is and continues to be a very well rounded car, where it’s clear driving matters. So much so that the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) voted the MAZDA3 Best Small Car in Canada for 2018.

The Mazda3 is always something that never blows me away but always has me taking a second look. This car has everything you need, and even a few things you won’t soon be able to be without. To truly enjoy the Mazda3 you need to look past the numbers, and realize there is so much more to the whole experience than A vs. B. What the Mazda3 really is… is consistency, you know what you’re getting with this car, and you know what to expect, and that isn’t a bad thing. With the Mazda3 they saw the value in not having to swing for the fences, they don’t need to spend finite resources reaching for that one incrementally higher number… Instead, they can offer consistently mid to high-level quality in every aspect of the vehicle.

2018 Mazda3 - Exterior
2018 Mazda3 - Exterior
2018 Mazda3 - Exterior
2018 Mazda3 - Exterior

This is shown in the implementation of technologies like SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control (GVC). This technology works behind the scenes to do this to minimize driver effort on their daily commute. It can make micro corrections to the steering, and the GVC will reduce the amount of body sway while going around corners or curves. My favorite feature, which I was pleasantly surprised to see at this price range was the Colour Active Driving Display, a visual display of things like posted speed signage and your current speed projected on the road ahead of you. This HUD reminds me of when I first started seeing backup cameras cars, something at first you think might think is gimmicky or unneeded, but it quickly becomes a necessary feature on every vehicle.

2018 Mazda3 - Interior
2018 Mazda3 - Interior
2018 Mazda3 - Interior
2018 Mazda3 - Interior

The base and special 50th edition Mazda3 is powered by the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L which produces an unsatisfying 155 hp, but upgrading to the premium GT model will include the 2.5L which might sacrifice some fuel economy but will give you a little more impressive 184 hp. Also found on the premium GT is a whole slew of safety features like lane assist making minor corrections to keep you where you need to be monitoring and support to detect objects ahead and either slow you downing or stop the car. Size wise the Mazda3 rightly fits into the small car category. Do not expect the 2nd-row seating to have much or any leg room if you’re a larger person that requires extending the driver’s seat back any further than that of an old lady who drives hugging the steering wheel.

Key Features:

  • Starting at $16,000 CND
  • 155 hp @ 6000 rpm or 184 hp @ 3250 rpm
  • 5/6.2 L/100Km
  • Seating 5
  • Legroom
    • 1073mm Front and 909mm Rear
  • Cargo Volume 350 L
 
 
Automotive Reviews
Genesis G80 - Exterior
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2018 Genesis G80 – Review

Genesis G80 - Exterior
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Ian Harwood

2018 Genesis G80 – Review

The all-new Genesis G80 will have people saying, “Wow! Is that really a Hyundai?

For years Hyundai has been known standard, simple, and reliable vehicle brand. With top selling models like the Sonata and Elantra, that is not a bad thing.  However, Hyundai has never released a vehicle to brag about, nor a vehicle to compete in the luxury mid-size sedan class. Since releasing a concept in 2008, and now independently as a luxury spin-off division, the Genesis has reshaped the identity of Hyundai.  Leading to the introduction of the new Genesis G80 last year.

Now Hyundai has taken another step further and introduced a new trim level and engine upgrade for the G80.  The new Genesis G80 Sport model is fueled by a 3.3-liter twin turbo V-6 producing 365 horsepower and 376lb-ft of torque. This sits right in between the standard 311 horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 and the top-of-the-line 5.0-litre V-8 engine generating 411 horsepower and 383lb-ft of torque.

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

Starting with the exterior, the Genesis G80 is nothing short of impressive. The sportier and elegant look throughout disguises itself from the Hyundai brand, which I feel is a smart move. The addition of an elongated front-end and an improved stylish front bumper are a success. This gives the Genesis G80 that high-end luxury sedan sheik it needs to compete with the Audi A6, BMW 5 series, and the Cadillac CTS to name a few.  Additional features included as well are chrome accents throughout, 19-inch alloy rims, and pronounced brake calipers.  The interior is comfortable and sleek. Hyundai included some carbon fiber additions to the dashboard which I feel is a little gimmicky. I am not a fan of the carbon fiber look in general; I think a more simplistic trim accent would have served them better. The gear shift is unlike any I have seen in any vehicle making it unique and easy to maneuver.  The touchscreen display is 9.2-inches wide, which is on the smaller side. (For comparison sake the Cadillac CTS display measures 12.3-inches.)However, I do always love the touchscreen and dial combination as opposed to relying on the dial (or finger pad like in the Lexus ES) only. Nothing is more frustrating when the dial skips over your desired selection, unlike the good ol’ finger tap which is bang on every time.  I am also surprised by the amount of room given to the rear passengers. It’s subtly spacious throughout, making it suitable for a family or an entourage.

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

Now the drivability of the Genesis G80 had me excited before I even put the vehicle in drive. I mean how you could not look at the dual-double exhaust tips peeking out the rear, the giant brake calipers, and the chiseled driver seat. As I gripped the leather steering wheel tight, I took off down the serpentine roads of the Sea to Sky highway. Now full disclosure, I did say took off and you are associating that with speeding.  My lawyer advised me that it doesn’t imply I was speeding. That is your assumption, and nor do I need to disclose my actual speed. Never-the-less, I took this Genesis to the test, the speed, the suspension, the handling. It satisfied my every need. You feel every bit of that twin-turbo (Again I emphasize, was not speeding). The handling is superb around the tight switchbacks accompanied by the lane departure mitigation feature nudging you back into your desired lane. Along with the beautiful scenery of Cliffside rock faces, the panoramic sunroof lets you enjoy seeing it all as you fly by. When I managed to get to Vancouver, I lots of testing with the brakes. There’s traffic everywhere and lights every 10 feet. Surprisingly, where Vancouver parking can be stressful the easy to use parking system and the overhead multi-camera will make parking a cinch.           

Key Features:

  • $62,000
  • 3-liter twin turbo V-6
  • 365 horsepower and 376lb-ft of torque
  • 8L/100km city, 9.8L/100km highway
  • Stylish exterior
Automotive Reviews
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior
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2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Coupe

2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior
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Jared Syrenne

2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Coupe

A beautiful design of timeless sophistication, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Coupe sets the benchmark for its class.

The new 2018 Mercedes E400 coupe might not be the strongest or the fastest but damn it sure is the prettiest. This car is a modern take on the classic 1950’s personal luxury car. These cars emphasized image over practicality, often with a two-door coupe or convertible styling. They set themselves apart from the spec driven sports cars by placing a greater emphasis on comfort and style. While they usually contained similar engines and powertrains, this power was instead there to accommodate the installation of more luxurious sizes, features, and accessories.

The new body style for the E400 features a class-exclusive B-pillarless design, which no other manufacturer does at this price point. With the frameless side windows down and the extra-large sunroof open the E400 felt incredibly open and airy. At first glance, the coupe does look very similar to its S and C class coupe siblings, but I found the shorter snub nose gave this coupe a more appropriate compact appearance.

2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Exterior

The wider and longer design was put in place to attempt to fit two adults in the back seat but let’s face it if you chose the coupe you know it’s designed for two. The sculpting on the car is kept very minimal, and there are almost no creases or hard lines. The exterior seems to flow smoothly like a still pond, and flawlessly form to the shape of the body, the way a red-carpet designer dress fits on an A-list movie star. The car comes standard with 18” 5 spoke wheels, but you can always upgrade to the stylish 19” AMG twin 5 spoke rims.

The E400 can be equipped with the same spectacular sound system found originally only in the ultra-premium S-Class, now you have two different Burmester sound systems options to choose from. The top of the line option has 23 speakers with 1450 watts distributed onto 25 amplifier channels, the “Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround-Soundsystem of the E-class represents an effort which has no equal in this vehicle segment.” Another feature always worth having is the HUD, its one of those things you might think is frivolous and unnecessary, but once you’ve used it, you’ll understand.

Now the E400 isn’t a racehorse, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have something to bring to the table. The twin-turbo 3.0L V6 provides a decent 329hp and 354lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse can launch the car from 0-100km/hr. in 5.3 seconds. While it might sacrifice a few decimal places at the finish line, the E400 instead promises an incredibly smooth, comfortable and enjoyable ride the entire way. Mated with the Mercedes advanced 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the car provided easy torque, and for those straight roads where you really felt like dropping the hammer, it was more than capable of providing exhilaration and speed. With three different suspension systems including tech like “Air Body Control,” the road will smoothen out before you, and the car will melt into the corners with the poise of a dancer.

2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Interior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Interior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Interior
2018 Mercedes E400 Coupe Interior

Again, and again Mercedes shows that sophistication and class have their place in an environment where everything else has a number which is compared and measured by its peers. The E400 coupe is a design that showcases all that Mercedes has to offer, they provide an exceptional driving experience, in a car that feels more solidly built and engineered than anything else even remotely near its already premium price tag

Key Features:

  • Starting at $72,000 CND
  • Passenger capacity 4
  • Trunk capacity 425 L
  • Transmission type 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic
  • 329 HP @ 5250-6000 rpm
  • 354 lb-ft @ 1600-4000 rpm
  • 3 seconds 0-100km
  • City fuel economy 11.9 L/100 km
  • Highway fuel economy 9.0 L/100 km
 
Automotive Reviews
2018 BMW M550i Exterior
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2018 BMW M550i – Review

2018 BMW M550i Exterior
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Ian Harwood

2018 BMW M550i – Review

The newly redesigned BMW M550i just might be the most ‘bang for your buck’ luxury sports sedan of 2018.

When purchasing a vehicle, it’s almost impossible to believe that you are getting a bargain. No matter what that sly salesman might have you believe, they are not doing you any favors. BMW however, is doing us all a favor with the new redesigned M550i. Loaded with a handful of bells and whistles, BMW has packed multiple features and technology inside this sedan.

Dressed in the “M” performance badge, which is a first for the 5-series, the performance was exceptional. The 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 sedan propels you in your seat, going from 0-100 in 4.5 seconds. The tuning of the transmission shifts smoothly and seamlessly. Generating an impressive 456 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, the M550i is one of the fastest sedans in its class. For comparison sake, the Mercedes E43 AMG has only 396 horsepower output. It may not be a track car (try looking at the m5 and paying more coin.) but, the M550i has a loose suspension due to some weight displacement in the front and rear. When put into modes Sport and Sport+, this tightens up quite nicely and adaptively lowers the suspension.  The fuel economy isn’t spectacular, especially in a class where everything adds up. At a modest 14L/100km city and 9L/100km highway fuel efficiency, the BMW M550i ranks in the lower half of its class.

It’s almost as if Lexus has captured Denzel in Man on Fire with its fierceness. The IS 350 looks like it can casually leave a scene of fire chaos and look bold while doing so. The front end has a draped black “netting” outlined in a unique shape. Along with air intake ventilation accompanying the grille, the IS 350 also features a check mark style LED lights underneath the existing headlights. It has a low stance look to the overall vehicle giving a more powerful look. From the backside, the IS 350 has sleek taillights sharply jagged and wrapping around the sides of the vehicle. The exhaust looks substantially larger and produces a decent roar.

2018 BMW M550i Exterior
2018 BMW M550i Exterior
2018 BMW M550i Exterior
2018 BMW M550i Exterior

Accompanied with some aerodynamics, BMW has kept a classic styling to this 5 series. This is a subtle but, effective move to fans of BMW’s. There’s something visually appealing to BMW, and they didn’t redesign a complicated and busy look for this new sedan. The BMW M550i includes a performance inducing spoiler, vents, and sculpted body styling. The exhaust does its job projecting the amplified V-8 engine letting the Honda Civics’ with aftermarket exhausts know who is boss. A nice accent is the metallic silver trim around the vents and on the mirrors mimicking the cars rotors. Blue brake calipers complete the look entirely.

The interior is spacious for all and looks sharp. Dressed in cream-white leather seating and the carbon fiber accents compliment the inside nicely. Also, BMW has draped some multicolor rope lighting along the dashboard that’s very attractive to the eye. There is plenty of head and leg room in this sedan for people of all body types. The display screen with multiple functions is a great size measuring 10.25 inches wide but, the non-touch screen is a disappointment. The classic scroll dial has me sometimes frustrated when it slips to the wrong desired function. A gesture mode has been added to impress anyone that hasn’t seen it before. Simply roll your index finger in a circular motion in front of the display to turn up the volume. 

2018 BMW M550i Interior
2018 BMW M550i Interior
2018 BMW M550i Interior
2018 BMW M550i Interior

The drive itself was very comfortable, and smooth. I had myself enjoying the exhilarating power and adrenaline from this sedan. Often found myself bullying my way around other vehicles, but before you judge me, this car made me do it. The drivability, quality, and comfort have continued to satisfy what you expect BMW would produce. Now, I will say it ranks high in a stiff competitive based on its performance and quality. Where it stands out and blows my skirt up is the price. (Yeah, I said skirt.) The tested BMW M550i was priced at $89, 650. Lower than any competitive sedan. The Audi A6 will ring you around $91,000 and the Mercedes-AMG E 43 at around $93, 000.          

Key Features:     

  • Starts at $82,000
  • 4L twin-turbocharged V8, 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission
  • 456 horsepower, 0-100 in 4.5 seconds
  • xDrive (all-wheel drive)
  • Four years/80,000kms warranty

If the lack of fuel efficiency has grabbed your concern, BMW has covered their bases by adding a Hybrid model BMW 530e, where you can sacrifice power for fuel savings. The BMW 530 can cover up to 25kilometers on a single charge. You sacrifice significant power obviously, but it is no slouch in its own right. The BMW 530i produces 248 horsepower from a turbocharged-2L inline-4 engine. The combined fuel economy will give you 8.7L/100km (city and highway).

Automotive Reviews
Tesla Roadster Concept
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Tesla Roadster Concept – Review

Tesla Roadster Concept
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Vince Sandhu

Tesla Roadster Concept – Review

The Tesla Roadster, a 2-door hyper-car. A car with a removable glass roof, boasting numbers that some can’t wrap their head around.

Elon Musk has done it, he has broken the internet, for car enthusiasts that is. He revealed an all-electric Semi truck that will have a range of 500 miles with a full load behind it. Without a payload, it will do 0-60mph in 5 seconds, which means no more needing to find space to overtake a Semi when the light turns green. Due to some wind tunnel configuring, the Tesla semi will have a less drag coefficient than a Bugatti Chiron, and it will only take 15 minutes or so to charge. Impressive. The big rig will also come with Teslas enhanced autopilot to help avoid collisions. They are also claiming a 2-year payback period, which only adds to the list of pros.

But, the Semi wasn’t what broke the internet. It was what the Semi was hauling in its trailer at the reveal. The Tesla Roadster, a 2-door hyper-car. A car with a removable glass roof, boasting numbers that some can’t wrap their head around. Producing over 10,000 NM of torque to the wheels from a 200kwh battery, the Roadster will do 0-60mph in 1.9 seconds, and 0-100mph in 4.2 seconds, thanks to its AWD system. If your neck hasn’t snapped from the acceleration, you may be able to see the car reach a top speed of +250mph. Numbers unheard of from an all-electric car, with four seats. All these claims, are available on the base model of the Roadster, which will start at $200,000. A Special Founders edition will be available with a $250,000 price tag.

These times and torque figures and prices are all impressive. They become even more impressive when compared to some of the most popular cars that are available today. Let’s look at the McLaren P1, a personal favorite. With an invoice of $1,150,000, you get a monster twin-turbo 3.8L V8 shouting out 727hp and 531 ft-lbs of torque, and a lithium-ion battery with a more modest 177hp and 96 ft-lbs of torque. Combining to create a 903hp stunner. 0-60mph is 2.7 seconds. 0-100 is 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 217mph. Not sounding as impressive anymore following the Roadster.

Tesla Roadster Concept
Tesla Roadster Concept
Tesla Roadster Concept
Tesla Roadster Concept
Tesla Roadster Concept
Tesla Roadster Concept

The Acura NSX has a receipt that is closer to the Roadster. $156,000 will let you play with the twin-turbo 3.5L V6 hybrids 573hp, 476 ft-lbs of torque, and a 0-60 time of 3.1 seconds. Again, for a bit more money, you can have something that is quite literally from the future. Unless you’re looking at only torque numbers, in that case, the SRT Dodge Demon has the upper-hand over the Roadster, sending 10,000 ft-lbs to the wheels at launch. Other than that, the Roadster isn’t matched by any production car available today. Unfortunately, street races don’t happen as often as they do in the Fast and Furious movies. From a practical point of view, The Roadster offers the buyer four seats and a range of 620 miles, compared to the NSXs 328, and the P1s 300 miles. The NSX and P1 will only give you one passenger too.

All rainbows and unicorns, until we dig into some of the details of this vehicle. Like how the horsepower figure is nowhere to be seen. Without that number, everything else doesn’t seem to have much meaning. Some have come out and said a 0-60 time under 2.05 seconds isn’t possible with the tire technology available today. Unless Elon Musk has gone to Michelin (which from pictures seems to be the tire on the Roadster) and partnered to make a super grippy tire. Another concern we are having is the weight of the car. Teslas P100D weighs an insane 5000lbs and holds a 100kw/h battery, whereas the Roadster is going to lug a 200kw/h battery. Tesla also sells separate 210 kW/h battery packs, and they’re weighing 3,600lbs. So, without the weight of the car provided, people have been taking some guesses, and it seems that people are content with the 2,500lbs number, for just the battery alone that is. This will be a very heavy car if this holds true. A lot of energy is required to move and stop that much mass which can result in overheating. As some of us may already know, Tesla has been having trouble giving consistent lap times with previous cars due to the cooling rejection system failing, calling it the “limp mode.” Hopefully, by 2020, they’ll be able to find a solution to this problem. The last thing to remember about the Roadster, is that all the times and numbers are only claims, nothing has been tested or proven.

Tesla Semi Concept
Tesla Semi Concept
Tesla Semi Concept
Tesla Semi Concept

Shortly after the reveal, Elon Musk tweeted out that a “special edition” of the Roadster may or may not be able to “fly short hops.” Saying it’s a question of safety, but “Rocket tech applied to a car opens up revolutionary possibilities.” Meaning the Roadster Elon mentioned that already has impressive numbers, will be available in an outrageously more impressive model that will be faster, and could potentially give it the ability to “fly short hops.” The future is near, Elon Musk wants it here now, and I’m not complaining.

Although, A few things went thru my mind when I heard the news about the Roadster. Like, why the timing? Why does it seem like Tesla has been working on this [roadster] when they’ve had an enormous bottleneck issue with the Model 3? Are they trying to hide something about the Semi? It’s odd (to me) to reveal such an innovative and progressive Semi, then take all the shine away from that and throw the Roadster in everyones face. Understandably, Elon Musk isn’t one to color within the lines.

Automotive Reviews
2018 BMW M240i Exterior
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2018 BMW M240i – Review
2018 BMW M240i Exterior
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Jared Syrenne

2018 BMW M240i – Review

BMW’s 2 series is known for providing an exciting driving experience. This is taken to new heights with the BMW M240i. With it's inline 6, near perfect weight distribution and compact weight and size, this car is clearly designed for uncompromising performance.

The 2018 features very slightly refreshed styling; with it only having minor changes to both the interior and exterior design.

The model we drove was the 2018 BMW M240i, with the manual transmission. It is without a doubt a win for BMW enthusiast.  The smooth manual transmission was a pleasure to drive even in the steady stop and go of some daily Vancouver city driving, and the slight vibrations felt through the shifter help provide the connection that is an integral part of the complete driving experience.  The true to form sports coupe is quick, nimble, and engaging, and while the interior may be too cramped for four, it could easily be the perfect vehicle for a person in search of a more exciting commute. The M240i is available in coupe, cabriolet, xDrive, with either the automatic 8-speed Steptronic Sports transmission, or the preferred 6-speed manual transmission

2018 BMW M240i Exterior
2018 BMW M240i Exterior
2018 BMW M240i Exterior
2018 BMW M240i Exterior

With BMW slapping the M-Series logo on everything it’s hard to define what is a true BMW M-class sports car. While the M240i does feature many of the track inspired tech that can be found on M2, it does have a few missing pieces that a full-on track car like the M2 or M3 has such as the electronically-controlled, multi-plate limited slip-differential, wider subframe, and stiffer springs. What it does have though is the impressive output of the M Performance TwinPower Turbo inline 6. This 3.0-litre produces 335-hp, 369 lb-ft of torque and throws this little car from 0-100km in 4.8 secs. This is right up there with the Audi S3 and the Mercedes AMG C43, all with an almost identical 0-100km, but with the S3 having 292hp and the C43 having whopping 362hp. This car also features the M performance suspension tuning setting and variable sports steering. The Servotronic steering can implement a variety of steering ratios that can ensure less effort is required when parking and turning, or improve handling and performance when driving more dynamically.

2018 BMW M240i Interior
2018 BMW M240i Interior
2018 BMW M240i Interior
2018 BMW M240i Interior

The interior was only slightly changed in the 2018 model, with the biggest improvement coming from the standard 6.6-inch center touchscreen (or an 8.8-inch optional one). Which I was quite surprised to find out was the first time the 2-series even had the option for a touchscreen. M240i stands on 18-inch M double-spoke rims, with Michelin sports rubber. We recommend the available 12-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system, which includes a 360-watt amplifier, five tweeters, five midrange speakers, and two central bass speakers located under the front seats. Also new was some metallic paint jobs like the Mediterranean and Seaside blue, as well as the Sunset orange that is seen in this articles images.

Key Features:

  • Starting at $47,000 CND
  • Fuel consumption in l/100 km (combined): 7.8
  • Engine power in hp at 1/min 335
  • Engine torque (Nm) at 1/min 369
  • Top speed in km/h 250
  • Acceleration 0–100 km/h in s 4.6[4.8]
Automotive Reviews
2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior
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2018 Audi A7 Sportback – Review
2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior
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Vince Sandhu

2018 Audi A7 Sportback – Review

The all-new 2018 Audi A7 is here with a new facelift and a load of screens inside. Re-styled from the last generation with a few tweaks for an extra ‘pop’ but the overall shape and appeal still catches everyone’s eye.

The target market hasn’t changed from the previous years as the “Elite class sedan with its sporty features” while offering a “Futuristic lounge atmosphere” as Audi likes to put it. The A7 is confined selection of trims from the Premium Plus and Prestige package, which are available with the S-Line package.

I’ve always been a fan of the A7s styling, pushing boundaries with the diving rear end, which they’ve kept with the newest generation. The main exterior change Audi has revealed is the wide gaping front grill, headlights, and taillights, which give the car an even more aggressive look than it already had. The taillights stretch across the entire trunk, just below the hidden spoiler (which automatically rises once reaching 75 mph). A three headlight systems are up for grabs, with the flagship Matrix LED System using Audi’s laser light technology.

The interior has been stripped of its buttons and dials and is now replaced with an 8.6” touchscreen in the center console; alongside the 10.1” media/navigation screen above it, with the digital speedometer. The sheik interior design in previous A7s has always been appealing and never distracting, but many have had complaints about the view out the rear window, due to the sloping roof. Drivers end up seeing the eyes of the backseat passengers rather than the headlights of trailing cars.

2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior
2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior
2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior
2018 A7 Sportsback Exterior

Available with up to 10 airbags for extra safety. It comes standard with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) that works with the Quattro All-Wheel Drive system to detect loss of traction and provide braking to avoid unnecessary body motion or slip. All models come standard also with ABS. If you’re feeling over the whole “driving” thing while behind the wheel, Audi has fitted adaptive cruise control, night vision, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

Audi has revealed the 3.0L supercharged V6, where as the RS7 comes with a twin-turbo 4.0L V8 that growls out 605bhp and 553lb-ft of torque to throw you from 0-60 in 3.7 seconds. The A7 six banger will belt out 340bhp and 325 lb/ft of torque that gives you a more subtle 0-60 in 5.2 seconds. It is connected to a 48-volt hybrid system which allows the start-stop system kick in at 13mph. With a redundant (my opinion) 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, all this comes together to provide the driver with an apparent 12L/100 km combined figure.

Audi supplies the A7 with a warranty of 4years/80,000km from the vehicles in-service date and covers defects in material and workmanship, a 12year/unlimited mileage corrosion perforation warranty, an emissions warranty, and an 8year/160,000km high voltage battery warranty.

2018 A7 Sportsback Interior
2018 A7 Sportsback Interior
2018 A7 Sportsback Interior
2018 A7 Sportsback Interior

Considering the only changes in the new generation are the mean looking front end and the interior is riddled with touch screens, there isn’t much of a change in driveability from the previous years model. The hood doesn’t feel as long as it looks when behind the wheel. For someone who drives a truck as their main vehicle, the earlier models didn’t have a feeling of being too low to the ground. Never felt a problem with blind-spots, and when driving alone, the view out the rear window was decent. The 2018 stunner is a few cm shorter, which makes it much more appropriate for city driving (not that it wasn’t before.) Similar to the years prior they’ve been a great drive, smooth on the most uneven roads, handles itself around corners well, and when you put your foot down, it is completely stable.

The A7 has quietly, but not completely, been overlooked when being compared to its opposition in my opinion. The M6, CLS and the Panamera are its competitors who are fitting. Four door sporty sedans that push you into your seat when you want it too while pulling a few neck muscles with their stance. Biased aside, the CLS is the favorite, Panamera clawing its way to the top year after year with its redesign, and the M6 sticking to a winning recipe. In regards to the 2018 A7 Audi is done being overlooked.

Key Features:

  • Starting at $82, 300
  • Twin-turbo 4.0L V8 producing 605bhp and 8-speed transmission
  • Ten standard airbags
  • 12L per 100 km combined city/highway
Automotive Reviews
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
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2017 Mazda MX-5 RF – Review
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
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Jared Syrenne

2017 Mazda MX-5 RF – Review

This 4th generation Mazda Miata was an impressive build on the quarter of a century of race-inspired driving. The MX-5 is Mazda’s only current sports car, and as always the only convertible in the lineup.

The MX-5 is Mazda’s only current sports car, and as always the only convertible in the lineup. Mazda pretty much has the small, lightweight and affordable droptop/sports car market all to itself. With a history of being the bestselling roadster, the new addition of the RF or retractable fastback just made sense.  As always MX-5 or Miata as I keep wanting to call it has an excellent power to weight ratio, which has been heightened by the use of premium new aged materials. The use of aluminum and ultra‑high‑tensile steel has shed approximately 20% of the weight of its previous generation model.

Powered by the 2.0 Liter SKYACTIV-G, this naturally aspirated inline-four produces 155hp @6000 rpm. Now while those specs might not be as sexy on paper as the 205hp dished out by the BRZ/86 frankencar, or the 160hp from the very similar Fiat 124. That’s not what this car is about, top speed and acceleration come second to drivability and hugging tight corners. That being said it has an edge on the BRZ/86 by being the lightest in its class and can deliver power more smoothly and on a lower rpm band then its high revving turbo lagging Italian cousin.

2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior

Now you don’t sit in a Miata so much as you wear it.  As a shorter guy, I had the feeling that if you were taller than six and a half feet you might start feeling like you are in a clown car, and with the roof down, you probably would be more comfortable with your head looking over the windshield instead of through it. Another common complaint from passengers and our other drivers was it felt like your butt was dragging on the ground, and that feeling is justified with only just over a foot of clearance from your backside to the road. Throwing everything the Miata or sorry MX-5 had into some of our back road mountain twists and turns certainly brought a smile to my face, and it made the driving experience quite enjoyable, the small cramped interior threw a wrench into the whole daily driver/year round car plan. Creature comforts are kept to a bare minimum, while it had things like weirdly placed cup holders, and a minuscule space for items like keys and phone, there was a lack of space and places like door pockets or a traditional glove box were nowhere to be found.

The model we’re testing was the Mazda MX-5 RF, and with the whole “being a convertible” as a huge selling point, it was nice to have the option of a mechanically lowered hard top. Cruising around with some beautiful sunshine and warm weather, it was easy to see why people fall in love with a drop top.  I expected the hardtop to insulate me better from typical road noises, but while driving the MX-5 around I found myself on more than one occasion checking to make sure the windows were closed due to an incredibly noisy cabin. Also, the RF suffered from some visibility issues due to the impossibly small rear window and thick B-pillars. Backing this small car up also threw me off as normally I would place my arm around the back of the passenger seat to assist in swiveling my body to get a better view out the rear window.  However as the MX-5 cabin pretty much ends right behind the seat, this was quite impossible and had me accidentally punching the back window as I attempted to turn my body.

2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Interior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF - Exterior

So while the Mazda MX-5 was a fun car to cruise around in the sun, the size and functionality of the vehicle make it just another toy to play with during the summer.  Starting at 30k this is one expensive cruiser that I would be fine doing without.

Key Features:

  • Starting from $31,900
  • Mazda Unlimited features unlimited mileage for our 3-YEAR New Vehicle, 3-YEAR Roadside Assistance, 5-YEAR Powertrain and 7-YEAR Anti-Perforation warranties
  • Fuel Efficiency
    • City – 8.8 L/100 km
    • Hwy – 6.9 L/100 km
  • 4-Cyl 2.0 Liter SKYACTIV-G
  • Horsepower 155 @ 6000rpm
  • Torque 148 ft/lbs @ 4600rpm
  • RWD
  • Curb Weight 1,058 Kg
Automotive Reviews
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
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2017 Lexus IS 350 – Review
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
Picture of Ian Harwood

Ian Harwood

2017 Lexus IS 350 – Review

The new look of the 2017 IS models being that of the new rear-wheel-drive IS 200t, the all-wheel-drive IS 300, and the almighty IS 350 is that of both swagger and sleekness.

It’s almost as if Lexus has captured Denzel in Man on Fire with its fierceness. The IS 350 looks like it can casually leave a scene of fire chaos and look bold while doing so. The front end has a draped black “netting” outlined in a unique shape. Along with air intake ventilation accompanying the grille, the IS 350 also features a checkmark style LED lights underneath the existing headlights. It has a low stance look to the overall vehicle giving a more powerful look. From the backside, the IS 350 has sleek taillights sharply jagged and wrapping around the sides of the vehicle. The exhaust looks substantially larger and produces a decent roar.

The interior of the IS 350 gets upgraded with the F-Sport. Beginning with the bucket seating, you feel one with the vehicle. It also features nice trim accents along the vehicle which is always a nice touch. The display screen gets a sizable upgrade increasing to 10.3 inches, slopped into the dashboard. Features the standard mouse-type control button to operate the screen, which I found to be finicky due to the inconstant ability to click what you want to. Which is severely dangerous when you are driving due to frustration because you cannot scroll through your ABBA playlist.

2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Exterior

The Lexus IS 350 also brings forth the Lexus Safety System+, An innovation that pre-anticipates a collision with vehicles or pedestrians. The system uses the camera and millimeter-wave radar to analyze hazards in the wake of the vehicle. If your reaction is slow to vehicle slamming on the brakes in front of your IS 350, it will inflict visual alerts and brake assistance as needed. If no action is taken by the driver the IS 350 will take over from your unsafe hands, and automatically brake itself.

Powering the engine of the IS 350 is a V6 six-speed transmission that has been tuned to produce 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft of torque. This topping the IS 300 AWD’s 3.5L V6 engine and the IS 200t 2-litre turbocharged four cylinders respectively. Standard in all models is the three mode selection of Eco, Normal, and Sports adaptation, however, with the IS 350 it features a Sport Plus mode where it tightens the suspension, alters the throttle, and optimizes the driving experience. The fuel efficiency is standard amongst competitor sedans, with a 12.6L/100km City and 9.2L/100km Highway. This, however, can be improved by sacrificing performance and sticking to the Eco-mode option. 

2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior
2017 Lexus IS 350 Interior

The overall drive of the IS 350 was impressive. The handling was sharp around bends thanks to the all-wheel drive. The suspension firmly kept the vehicle tight around corners and minimized the body jolting of other vehicles gliding through corners along the Sea to Sky highway. The IS 350 is recommended for anyone that is a performance enthusiast at a very reasonable cost. This sedan is somewhat spacious but, head and legroom for rear passengers are disappointing. Selfishly the IS 350 is made for the driver’s enjoyment.                  

An innovative sedan that does nothing but, holds up to the title.

Key Points:

  • Sticker Price: $53,350
  • V6 engine with 6-speed transmission
  • Lexus Safety System+
  • 10-year/100 000 km warranty
Automotive Reviews
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
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2017 Jaguar XE S – Review
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
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Jared Syrenne

2017 Jaguar XE S – Review

Takes the idea of “fun to drive” very seriously The Jaguar XE is a new addition to the Jaguar stable and is positioned as an entry to the impressive Jaguar lineup.

However, Top Motorist was able to test the pinnacle of XE power, with the Jaguar XE S. The XE is immediately recognizable and offers North American consumers a new choice in European sports cars. The English manufacturer is hoping to eke out some market share from the dominant and always impressive German powerhouses: Audi, Mercedes, and BMW.

Jaguar invested $2.5 billion in facilities to build the XE at its Solihull, U.K., plant. The focus of these upgrades was to build the XE’s with an aluminum body and components, that same technology is also a first for this class of car. These advancements leave the XE not only with sexy lines and curves, but sitting at a curb weight of 3787lb is quite a bit lighter than the Mercedes C43 AMG(3900 lb.), and the BMW 340i xDrive (3802 lb.)

2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior

While there were five models of the XE to choose from, this review will focus on the more exciting XE S. This car uses the same engine as the F-type, with a 3.0L V6 and twin vortex supercharger. This machine gives a road-gripping 380hp, going 0-100 in 5.2 seconds. However, at the price point of $61,500, this premium trim has some explaining to do. Both the Mercedes C43 AMG (MSRP $56,600) and the BMW 340i xDrive (MSRP $56,200) are heavier and have less horsepower but will leave the Jaguar XE S fractions behind on the 0-100km, by up to ½ a second.

However, in the end, it’s not all about the numbers. The Jaguar XE S was a very fun car to drive. The almost perfect 50/50 weight distribution and the advanced double wishbone front suspension design that was based on the F-TYPE sports car, provide all the exciting car driving experience I could want. Also with four driving modes: Standard, Eco, Dynamic or Rain/Ice/Snow, the XE is good to go wherever the road may take you whether that might be the track or driving home from a day at the office.

2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior
2017 Jaguar XE Exterior

The inside is as impeccably designed as one would expect from a maker of often $100k+ vehicles. With a simple and pleasing atheistic the XE is sure to turn heads both inside and out. With a push of a button, the Jaguar lets out a deep growl and up pops the JaguarDrive Control which rises to greet your hand. The model we drove had an amazing 825-watt surround sound system delivered through 17 speakers, all designed by another excellent British manufacturer Meridian. My only complaint was similar to the rest of the internet, a disappointment in the laggy 10.2 touchscreens full of useless apps. The lack of physical button’s meant that you had to constantly reach out to make entertainment changes as you were driving. However, with the optional laser Head-Up Display and the high-definition 12.3” Virtual Instrument Display, it was easy to keep my attention on the enjoyment of the ride.

Key Features:

  • MSRP $61,500 CND
  • 380 hp @ 6,500 rpm
  • 332 lb-ft torque @ 3,500 – 5,000 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/hr.  in 5.2 seconds
Automotive Reviews