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New & Redesigned Upcoming Auto Model

May 15, 2012 | Author: admin

Some new or redesigned models expected in the next 15 months:

  • Acura Redesigned RDX and MDX: Next year
  • BMW Activee, Electric 1 Series: Near end of this year
  • BMW Redesigned 3-Series Sedan: First quarter 2012
  • Buick Verano Small Luxury Sedan: By end of this year
  • Cadillac ATS Compact Sedan: Summer
  • Cadillac XTS Large Sedan: Spring
  • Chevrolet Redesigned Malibu: First quarter 2012
  • Dodge Redesigned Viper: 2012
  • Dodge Compact Sedan: First half of 2012
  • Ford Focus Electric: By end of this year
  • Ford C-Max Wagon: 2012
  • Honda Redesigned Accord: Spring
  • Honda Redesigned CR-V: Later this year
  • Hyundai Redesigned Azera Sedan: First quarter 2012
  • Hyundai Redesigned Santa Fe: Late 2012 or 2013
  • Infiniti JX Small SUV: Spring 2012
  • Lexus Redesigned GS: Early 2012
  • Mazda Redesigned 6 Sedan: 2012
  • Mazda CX-5 Small SUV: Spring
  • Mitsubishi I: Spring
  • Nissan Redesigned Versa: This month
  • Nissan Redesigned Altima: 2012
  • Nissan Redesigned Sentra: Summer
  • Porsche Redesigned 911: February
  • Scion IQ Minicar: December
  • Scion FR-S Sporty Coupe: 2012
  • Subaru Redesigned Impreza: November
  • Toyota Redesigned Camry: This month
  • Toyota Redesigned Yaris: This month
  • Toyota Prius V Wagon: This month
  • Volkswagen Golf R: December

 

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Mazda 5

May 10, 2012 | Author: admin

Having a large family has, at least for me, been a mixed blessing. The warmth and company of four young ladies is a special thing for any father. However, when it comes to taking said lasses and my wife out in one vehicle, there has long been a problem – there are precious few vehicles capable of carrying six in comfort. In the past, it has boiled down to taking a minivan or multi-row SUV.

While these vehicles do deliver the needed space, there is a big but – they are thirsty beasts that are expensive to operate, especially with gas prices well above a buck a litre. What compounds the problem is the fact that, with just the driver aboard, there’s a lot of unused vehicle along for the ride.

The solution arrived in the form of the Mazda5. It was/is best described as a mini-minivan that has the ability to haul six people without exacting the fuel-consumption penalty. A week with the new 2012 GT version delivered a commendable test average of 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres, which came as a very pleasant surprise.

Essentially the Mazda5 is a Mazda3 with a third row of seats and two sliding rear doors, which ease access to the cabin. Yes, the third row is a little tight and the squab sits a tad too close to the floor, but it serves its purpose when six people need to be ferried around. The middle-row buckets are comfortable and slide back and forth, which maximizes legroom when the rear seat is empty or folded flat.

The luxury package, which adds leather trim and a power sunroof, includes a handy storage bin under the left middle-row seat and a storage net that’s deployed by lifting the right seat’s base and flipping it out into the space between the buckets.

As or cargo space, the Mazda5 lives up to its promise, although there is an anomaly. Mazda Canada lists the cargo capacities as follows: With the third row up, there’s 3.95 cubic feet; 15 cu.ft with the 50/50-split third row folded flat and 30.3 cu.ft. with both rows folded down.

Unfortunately, these numbers do not do the Mazda5 justice – Mazda USA lists the capacity with the third row flat as 44.4 cu.ft.

 

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Soul Survivor

May 6, 2012 | Author: admin

Soul appeared in 2009, it turned the entry-level market on its ear. It had a funky style, a ton of utility and it was one of the first true entry-level rides to arrive with all the desirable safety aids. Along with air bags and anti-lock brakes, it boasted electronic stability control and Bluetooth. Much of this wasn’t available, ever mind standard fitment, on many far more expensive cars.

Barely two years into its life, Kia has reworked its perky runabout and added a healthy dose of refinement. Style-wise, the front fascia has been reworked to emphasis the Soul’s wide stance  - the fog light are larger and the previous two-bulb headlight system makes way for a new four-bulb system that’s now available with projector headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED turn signals (sadly, only on the range-topping 4U Luxury). At the rear, the new bumper reinforces the stance, while the tail light lenses are sharper and again, are available with LEDs.

It all serves to freshen the appearance and add some visual refinement. Similarly, the interior makeover is subtle, but the changes make a difference, nonetheless allows the driver to select a song or place a call using voice commands. It also has the ability to learn the driver’s speech pattern (an accent, for example) and adapt accordingly.

Bigger changes are found beneath the Soul’s sheetmetal. To begin with, ride quality takes a big step in the right direction. One of the early complaints was the stiffness that defined the Soul’s demeanour over anything other than a pool table-smooth surface. This time around, the ride is compliant without making the Soul feel as though it’s about to turn turtle when pushed through a corner. The steering, especially when teamed with the 4U’s upsized P235/45R18 tires, has a more refined feel and better feedback.

More importantly, the Soul now gets the power it has always cried out for – literally. The outgoing model was offered with a weak 1.6-litre four and a larger 2.0L engine that pushed 142 horsepower. For 2012, the base 1.6L engine, which now features direct injection, produces 138 hp and 122 pound-feet of torque. The up-level 2.0L engine pushes a much stronger 164 hp and 148 lb-ft  of torque.

Power is relayed to the road through one of two new transmissions. A six-speed manual replaces the previous five-speed on all models, while the optional automatic now features six speeds (up from four) and a manual shift mode.

 

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The Laws of Reason

May 2, 2012 | Author: admin

If you were to ask test drivers taking part in a comparison test to choose between the Chevrolet Malibu and the Oldsmobile Alero, the Alero will clearly be the hands-down winner, even after a short test drive. Not only is its exterior more refined, but it outstrips the Malibu in terms of handling and driving pleasure. What’s more, it comes in both sedan and coupe versions.

In a nutshell then, this Oldsmobile has all the road qualities needed to interest those people who are looking for a car that’s both practical and pleasant to drive. Among its attractive features are precise steering, excellent cornering ability and a cabin comparable to that of many Japanese cars. On the other hand, the suspension is overly firm and can become an annoyance on bumpy roads.

Still, the 150-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine allows you to relax and enjoy the drive, especially when it’s coupled to the Getrag 5-speed manual transmission. But this engine has always been noisy when you accelerate and an overly heavy clutch pedal makes driving in the city uncomfortable. For many drivers, the 170-hp 3.4-liter V6 paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission is the more logical choice.

Unfortunately, all this information is rather beside the point, as the Oldsmobile division is about to disappear – probably by mid-decade of the latest. The Alero is destined to become an orphan in the near future.

Malibu: the wise choice

If the mission of the Alero designers was to develop a car capable of taking on its Japanese competitors head to head, the Malibu team’s goal was to offer an excellent quality/performance/price ratio. In other words, it’s the ideal sedan for the average North American family in search of a car that combines the qualities of “nice design, good quality and low price.”

This explains a compromise characteristic of this mid-size sedan. The Malibu is not the kind of car designed to make you fall head over heels in love as soon as you spot one in the showroom. You have to be more interested in its complete range of equipment, no problem drive-train and acceptable design.

Let’s have some fun trying to find out if this solidly built Chevrolet deserves the label “nice design, good quality and low price.”

PROS

  • Complete equipment
  • Excellent audio system
  • Good acceleration (V6)
  • Large trunk
  • Roominess

CONS

  • Average tires
  • Body roll in corners
  • Little driving pleasure
  • Nondescript design
  • Subpar materials

 

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Chevrolet Malibu

April 28, 2012 | Author: admin

Malibu just barely passes muster in the “nice design” department. Its masses are well balanced, the distribution of the various elements is adequate and it doesn’t disgrace itself when it comes down to styling. It’s just this kind of sobriety that will allow the car to age “gracefully,” aesthetically speaking. From a practical viewpoint, the cabin is close to being completely stripped while some materials seem to have been selected strictly for commercial use. The dashboard is straightforward and unflashy, everything is within reach and controls are easy to use. s The audio system also gets high marks, offering excellent sound for a car in this price range. The front seats, on the other hand, are average, providing inadequate lateral support and are upholstered with material that may displease finicky types. The back seats have excellent legroom and the 60/40 backrest can be flipped forward, adding to the car’s versatility.

The Malibu therefore deserves average masks in styling terms. To meet the “good quality” criteria,  engineers used tried and true mechanical components. The 3.1-liter V6 is certainly not new, but its reliability has been demonstrated beyond question, ditto the 4-speed automatic transmission. Also worth noting is the independent rear suspension and standard brakes with ABS.

No problems when you get behind the wheel and take this Chevy out for a spin. In the plus column are its quiet ride, directional stability, neutral behavior while cornering and the engine’s adequate performance. On the other hand, if you push the car the least bit hard, it will exhibit serious understeer, the tires will squeal and the vehicle becomes unstable. Both engines work well enough, although they could be more efficient. In a nutshell, the Malibu is a good family car, so long as you don’t try to make it exceed its limits.

Finally, with a sticker price of about $25,000, the Malibu meets the “low price” criterion, boasting a complete range of equipment as well as tried and true mechanical components. And that makes it one of the best deals on the market.

SPECIFICATIONS

Warranty                               3 years/36,000 miles (60,000 km)

Type                                         sedan/front wheel drive

Wheelbase/Length            107.1 in/190.6 in

Width/Height                       69.3 in /56.3 in

Weight                                      3075 lb (1395 kg)

Trunk/Fuel tank                   16.4 cu. ft/14 gallons

Air bags                                    front

Front suspension                  independent

Rear suspension                    independent

Front brakes/Rear brakes                  disc ABS/drum ABS

Traction control                    no

Steering                                     rack- and-pinion, power assist

Turning circle                         36 feet

Tires (front/rear)                   P205/60R15

PERFORMANCE

Engine                                         V6 3.1-liter

Transmission                            4-speed automatic

Horsepower                               170 hp at 5200 rpm

Torque                                          190 lb-ft at 4000 rpm

Other engines                             none

Other transmission                  none

Acceleration (0-60 mph)      9.6 sec

Maximum speed                        106 mph (170 km/h) (electron.lim)

Braking (60-0 mph)                  138 feet (42 m)

Fuel consumption                      21.6 mpg (10.5 L/100 km)

COMPETITION

  • Accord
  • Altima
  • Camry
  • Leganza
  • Mazda 626
  • Sebring
  • Sonata

 

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Chevrolet Tahoe: The XXL Gang

April 24, 2012 | Author: admin

If you’re interested in one these juggernauts and live, say, in the trendy district with quaint streets, think twice. Because it will look totally out of place in narrow thoroughfares, and you’ll need a sharp eye and remarkable coordination just to park it. Besides, each gas fill up will put you in the poorhouse.

But or someone whose professional or recreational activities require a robust and spacious sport-utility, the Tahoe, Yukon or Suburban may be the perfect solution. True, their squarish shape isn’t exactly art-gallery material, and their platform, borrowed from the Silverado and Sierra trucks, precludes all sport-driving. Still, they’re robust enough to satisfy the needs of outdoors enthusiasts and specialized workers. Seen in that light, these big vehicles have their redeeming features.

Identical twins

Before taking a closed look, let me point out that the Tahoe and the Yukon are virtually identical, so the following comments apply to both models.

Belonging to the full-size SUV category, the pair’s dimensions are more reasonable than the Ford Expedition, which is 5.9 inch (15 cm) longer and about 550 lbs. (250 kg) heavier. Even the Toyota Sequoia is longer and heavier than the Tahoe. This doesn’t prevent the latter from providing more luggage space, a roomy passenger cabin, even the option of a third-row seat. And unless you have very particular needs, you can transport practically anything in this sport-utility, whose quasi-retro appearance seems to make a few folks happy.

Like most GM sport-utilities, the dashboard is a good example of efficient control layout. But I wonder why the cassette player is banished under the dashboard. Was it an afterthought on the part of the designers? The front bucket seats are comfortable and include seat-belts integrated into the seats themselves. The rear seats are not too bad, but the flat backrest and thin upholstery don’t exactly encourage you to take long trips. What’s more, the relatively narrow door makes it hard to get in and out.

PROS:

  • Roominess
  • Comfortable cockpit
  • Choice of engines
  • Balanced handling
  • Reasonable fuel consumption

CONS

  • Large size
  • Finish needs improvement
  • Retro lines
  • Difficult access to third-row seat

 

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More on the Subaru

April 20, 2012 | Author: admin

Four-sensor anti-lock braking technology controls the standard all-disc brakes, while a brake override system has been added for 2012. A stability-control system is also standard.

Subaru has switched to an electric power-steering system on the new Impreza, a move that improves fuel economy by two percent. Fuel efficiency also gets a boost from a 50-kilogram reduction in the Impreza’s weight. The chassis is 10 kg lighter, yet its stiffness has been improved by 25 percent, thanks to greater use of high-strength steel.

The biggest contributor to the 30 percent overall improvement in fuel efficiency, however, it’s the new powertrain. Both models use a new 2.0-litre version of the FB Series boxer four-cylinder introduced in the 2011 Forester. The stroke has been lengthened, resulting in improved torque (145 pound-feet), while horsepower was rated at 148.

The engine cam configuration is now double overhead camshafts – the current Impreza has single overhead cams – and changes have been made to reduce friction and improve durability, such as switching from a timing belt to chain-driven camshafts. The engine’s compression ratio has been bumped up to 10.5:1 from 10.2 while still content to function on regular-grade fuel.

The transmission channeling the engine’s output to the standard symmetrical all-wheel drive is either a five-speed manual with revised second- and fifth-gear ratios for improved fuel economy or a new second-generation Linear-tronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) designed specifically for the Impreza. This more compact transmission offers wider gear ratio coverage and is tuned for more linear acceleration.

Pricing for the 2012 Impreza has not been announced, but I can give you a hint: Subaru entered the 2.0i touring iteration in the family car over $21,000 category at this year’s AJAC Test Fest. (The current Impreza starts at $20,995).

 

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The Subaru

April 16, 2012 | Author: admin

The Subaru support by a clutch of loyal owners, has been dogged by a few issues in the mainstream marketplace. Its products, while acknowledged as being well-built, reliable and above-average at retaining their value, have struggled for acceptance. In fact, the brand hasn’t even been on the radar of many shoppers.

Consumer feedback has criticized Subaru’s styling, which some consider quirky, and its interiors, which are thought to be more cramped than those of competing nameplates. Even its standard all-wheel drive gets rapped in these days of continuously escalating fuel costs for contributing to poorer fuel-consumption numbers than the competition’s.

So Subaru is changing, opting for more appealing styling, better fuel efficiency and, it hopes, building consumer awareness of the brand. An example of this new approach is the 2012 Impreza, which is expected to be in Canadian showrooms by late October of early November.

This is the fourth generation of the Impreza, which made its debut in 1992 and has generated global sales of 1.85 million to date. This latest iteration is new from the ground up, delivering more aggressive styling, a roomier interior that’s more refined and a new powertrain that promises 30 percent better fuel economy.

And the improvements come without compromising one of the core values of the brand – it’s fun-to-drive quotient.

I wish I could tell you just how much fun it is to drive, but a manufacturer’s embargo on driving impressions prevents me from sharing those details. Suffice to say, after a day driving the new Impreza on some wonderfully winding roads in lower Vancouver Island, it’s safe to anticipate the standards of performance and handling dynamics that endear current Subarus to enthusiasts will continue.

This new compact will be offered in two body styles – a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback – with four trim levels, starting with the base 2.0i, which includes features such as power windows, door locks and mirrors, cruise control, keyless entry and air conditioning as standard equipment.

Next is a touring edition, which includes additional amenities such as an audio upgrade, Bluetooth connectivity, heated front seats and 16-inch alloy wheels. The trim choices are topped off with a sport package and a limited edition.

The new exterior includes styling cues that are helping redefine the brand, such as a hexagonal grille that is being shared throughout the Subaru lineup and the hawkeye headlights that were introduced on the 2010 Legacy. The car’s silhouette has a sleeker look, due in part to the more raked windshield and thinner A-pillar, which has been moved ahead 200 millimetres. Aggressive wheel arches, also shared with the Legacy give the car a sportier stance.

The wheelbase on both the sedan and hatchback has been stretched to 2,645 mm from current model’s 2,620 mm, yet the shorter one hangs front and rear result in an overall len’s that’s unchanged. Vehicle width remains the same, too.

The lengthened wheelbase contributes to be interior packaging, with more room in the cab and a larger cargo area – the hatchback will accommodate three golf bags, while the sedan will handle four. There’s more shoulder, hip and leg room, especially in the rear seat, where occupants have 50 mm more space for their lower limbs.

Both models feature 60/40-split rear seatback. A nice touch in the sedan’s trunk is the reshaped hinge arms, which are enclosed to prevent crushing cargo when the lid is closed.

Access to the cabin has been improved with larger door openings front and rear. Moving the base of the A-pillar ahead has allowed the designers to stretch the front door opening 125 mm, while the door sills are now 20 mm lower.

The pulled-forward design of the windshield also allows the instrument panel to be positioned lower, making the cabin feel more spacious. Greater attention to detail in the interior is obvious, with significantly more soft-touch plastic on the instrument panel, door trim and centre console. Overall, there’s a more refined look, with a greater use of textures and pain tones to perk up the cabin.

 

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BMW Z3: Z3′s Metamorphosis

April 12, 2012 | Author: admin

In my considered opinion, BMWs are generally very fine cars which offer genuine driving pleasure. I emphasize the word “generally” as there is one model, just one, that I cannot stand: the Z3. Ungraceful, bulbous lines, unbalanced shape bordering on distaste – quite frankly, an ugly coupe. But beware, replies the enthusiast: the car is very popular! And they’re right.

As soon as it came out in 1996, the Z3 roadster attracted a lot of comments. On the one hand, to decry the far too easy-going 138-hp 4-cylinder and on the other hand (and more so) to question this shape…which is of course questionable! It is interesting to note that on this subject opinions are generally dramatically opposed to each other: one simply adores it or detests it. Since then, in the course of a first metamorphosis, the Z3 roadster acquired cylinders (two exactly), and quite a few horses, and then it grew a roof to receive the name Z3 coupe, then it paid a visit to the “M” performance shop (BMW Motorsport) to change itself into a ballistic missile.

Meanwhile back on Earth

Mechanically speaking, the last few models of the first generation Z3 offer a 2.5-liter 6-cylinder (184 hp) and a 3.0-liter (225 hp) which replaces the older 2.8-liter of a previous vintage. The 5-speed manual gearbox is ready for service: If you are not interested in sport driving, you can always choose the 5-speed automatic gearbox. Between these two engines, it is obviously the 3.0-liter which is the most satisfying. Responsive, supersmooth, it delivers ample low range torque with a beautiful sound, this in-line 6 propels the 2860 lbs (1300 kg) roadster with disconcerting ease and pushes it from 0 to 60 mph (100 km/h) in less than 6.5 seconds.

More impressive still, the four large disc brakes with the enormous tires on the 17-inch rims bring this machine to a halt in 120 feet (36 m) and a bit, from 60 mph.

So much for numbers and pedigree. When it comes to movement, the Z3 has inherited numerous parts from the present day sedans of the 3 Series, except for the rear suspension which comes from a 3 Series of the previous generation, which may explain the slight skittishness of the rear axle when pressed vigorously.

PROS

  • Spirited performance (3.0 liter)
  • Better reliability
  • Excellent brakes
  • Real driving pleasure

CONS

  • Controversial lines
  • Plastic soft top window
  • Small trunk
  • Soon to be retired

 

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Chevrolet Tahoe

April 8, 2012 | Author: admin

The most pleasant surprise is actually driving this colossus. Given its size and technical specs, you’d imagine it would throw you around and scare you silly. But handling is quite honest, as long as you don’t confuse this Tahoe with a Corvette. Steering is still a little vague and the rear end tends to slide sideways when turning on rough surfaces. Brakes are powerful and well modulated. On the other hand, many buyers have complained about their lack of durability. The all-wheel drive is less sophisticated than the Toyota Sequoia’s, but superior to the Ford Expedition’s.

The standard engine, a 4.8-liter 275 hp V8, is sufficient for most situations, easily handling an impressive towing capacity of 8680 lbs (3946 kg). The 4-speed automatic gearbox is another plus. Mechanically identical, the GMC Yukon offers a better appointed interior, and the Denali version, even more luxury.

Big families

Though the Chevy Suburban sports an exterior virtually identical to the Tahoe, it’s substantially bigger. In fact, it’s 20.5 inches (52 cm) longer than its little brother. This vehicle is intended for big families, needing to transport 7 to 9 passengers with their luggage or to tow a 8600-lb (3900-kg) trailer.

This is not a vehicle for everyone. Unless you feel claustrophobic and wish to drive something with a cockpit as huge as a ballroom, you don’t really need it.

Once a conveyance for road-maintenance and construction workers, the Suburban has been refined over the years. Like the Tahoe, it’s amazingly nimble and provides excellent comfort on long trips. Its handling is such that you can negotiate sharp curves with little effort.

Whatever V8 you’ve got under the hood, the gas is going to cost you big time. Be that as it may, the engines of these two sturdy vehicles guzzle less than the competition in general, giving the edge to General Motors.

Any way you look at it, these SUVs are awesome. It wouldn’t be a bad idea for GM to send a couple of truck guys over to its car division.

 

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