Auto News 5

Ford laid out its vision for the crossover of the future today with a Edge concept, a vehicle with global ambitions and laden with gee-whiz technology including autonomous driving and parking features.

Nissan said it will lift production of its all-electric Leaf in the United States as demand for the car has surged sharply this year following a cut to its sticker price.

Four-time ALMS champion Level 5 Motorsport has confirmed two Prototype Challenge entries ahead of the inaugural season of the United SportsCar Championship (USCC).

The PC class features one-make Le Mans-style racing based on Oreca's FLM09 chassis. Level 5 plans on running two brand new cars in 2014.

“Level 5 has proven that it is well capable of winning races and championships in the class and we feel that we can bring our experience, expertise and resources needed for customers to succeed in this competitive form of racing,” said Level 5 team manager David Stone.

The Madison, Wisconsin-based organization, keen on attracting drivers to the series, started prospecting for drivers last weekend during a shakedown test for USCC teams at Sebring. Level 5 is and offers multiple options.

“We're very flexible as far as future options are concerned,” added Stone.

“(Owner) Scott (Tucker)'s ultimate goal for Level 5 from the beginning was to build a world-class organization that could support the best sports car drivers as customers. And that's exactly what we have done.”

We met with Derrick Walker, IndyCar President, Operations & Competition, during our stay at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas last weekend to talk about the sensitive issue of driver safety in the IndyCar series.

Last May, Hulman and Company Chief Executive Officer, Mark Miles, and Walker announced the intent to see Arie Luyendyk's four-lap (236.986 mph) and one-lap (237.498 mph) qualification records surpassed.

“The goal is to challenge those speed records during the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 in 2016,” said the IMS press release.

Following Dario Franchitti's crash in Houston that ended his career, and Dan Wheldon's tragic crash on the Las Vegas oval in 2011, we thought it was kind of a strange idea to yet again increase the speed of Indy cars.

Dario Franchitti's crash in Houston. (Caption: IZOD IndyCar)

“First of all, there is no mandate to make the car go faster,” Walker told us in the F1 paddock.

“The cars will go quicker just because of engine development. We have not been mandating it in terms of speeds we should be reaching. We can estimate it or predict what it might be. No, we have not been asked to increase the speeds of the cars,” Walker added.

Following these frightening crashes, something needed to be done.

“We are looking at some changes for safety, which may impact speed. As soon as we're 100% certain that it's the right thing to do, we'll implement them as quickly as we can -- maybe 2014, maybe 2015. We're always looking for improvements in safety,” Walker explained.

“Motorsport has always been dangerous. We're talking about race cars that go fast. In Dario's case, the car did its job. He survived. He was injured, but he survived. The fencing is an approved fence by the FIA. I don't think they've seen a crash just like that. So, there will be improvements implemented for that kind of fencing, I'm very certain of that,” the former IndyCar team owner said to Auto123.com.

We also asked what areas of the car need to be improved?

“I would say that there are three main areas that we're focused on right now. We need to finish that research before we decide the right thing to do. That's why I will not tell you what sections we're looking at. The thing you can't do is make changes, then compromise and make it worse,” Walker declared.

“What we need to do with experienced and knowledgeable people is quietly look at the options and understand how to make the sport safer. It is a process that all racing series of that level should be doing. We are certainly no exception. Driver safety and track safety are considerations for us. We work hand-in-hand with the FIA. They have a huge amount to knowledge in this area, so we lean on their guidance and recommendations. There's a lot to be done and very little time. We're going as quickly as we can,” Walker concluded.

From Team Stange press release

Team Stange announced Wednesday the signing of Canadian native Maryeve Dufault as their driver for the 2014 ARCA Racing Series season.

Dufault is scheduled to pilot the No. 46 HotTVBrands.com Ford Fusion in all of the scheduled ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards events at tracks nationwide.

Maryeve Dufault, Team Stange (Photo: Team Stange)

“This is a great opportunity for me and a great team that has been formed for 2014 ARCA season,” explained Dufault.

“I am very appreciative of the people that John (Stange) is bringing together for the No. 46 HotTVbrands.com car. There are some amazing guys that are running this program who bring a lot of knowledge and success to the table. I'm looking forward to a great season with Team Stange.”

Team Stange, which was formed in 2004 by John Stange and his wife Ashely, is preparing for its' first season in ARCA racing.

Stange purchased the nine-time ARCA championship winning team and equipment of Larry Clement Racing at the end of the 2013 season and started making plans to field his team for 2014.

“2014 is going to be a great year for Team Stange Racing,” said John Stange.

“I have been involved in racing in one way or another my entire life and it is so exciting when you have those times when things come together like they have for Team Stange. We're building a strong team and will give Maryeve competitive equipment and hopefully that combination will put the No. 46 at the front of the field.”

In the integral role of crew chief/consultant for the No. 46, Team Stange has tapped veteran Larry Moore of Palatka, Florida.

Moore is one of the most successful short-track drivers in history with more than 500 race wins and experience at 356 different tracks. When he hung up his helmet as a racer, he began building a successful reputation as a crew chief/consultant for various ARCA, NASCAR Nationwide Series, CRA and dirt late model teams. Moore has more than 35 victories as a crew chief and is looking forward to adding to that number in 2014 with Maryeve and Team Stange.

Hybrid vehicle sightings are no longer a rare occurrence. As fuel prices rise, so too do their sales numbers. Be they plug-in or not, hybrid vehicles that offer less-than-100km autonomy in cold-weather conditions seem to be, for now, the ideal solution in reducing both fuel consumption and greenhouse gases.

Hybrid Winter-Readiness: More or Less Expensive?

As far as winter-readiness goes, what are the recommendations for these dual-engined vehicles that combine both internal-combustion and electric motor? We could easily jump to the conclusion that the complexity of their engineering requires specific, expensive maintenance requirements. Nothing could be farther from the truth. How can this be? Let's take a closer look at the hybrid system and find out.

Sharing the Load
Hybrid vehicles shut down combustion engine operation when we come to a complete stop, thus interrupting gas production. Once we release the brake pedal, the electric motor supplies the power for propulsion before eventually handing over operations to the combustion engine, which also handles battery-recharging duties.

Brisk acceleration requires that the engines work in tandem to produce the necessary power. Deceleration and activation of the braking system engages the alternators in the regenerative-braking system, which helps recharge the battery.

Slow-traffic mobility is handled by the electric motor, which propels the vehicle until the moment that the battery requires recharging. The motors will then work in tandem to share the task.

It's important to keep in mind that the combustion engine is inoperative in traffic or at a complete stop. This saves engine wear and tear. Does this logic also apply to other components such as the exhaust system? If the engine operates less frequently, shouldn't the engine oil last longer? The regenerative braking system slows down the vehicle and reduces the strain on brakes. Maybe this will also cut down on brake maintenance and replacement.

As far as hybrid-vehicle transmissions are concerned, most manufacturers opted for what is referred to as CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmission). As there are no gears, there is almost no maintenance.

Savings in the 25% to 40% Range
Many manufacturers recommend maintenance intervals in the 5,000km to 6,000km range. For example, Toyota Prius maintenance intervals are 8,000km apart. These recommendations need to be followed in order to respect warranty obligations. Once the warranty is over, one can easily and safely perform hybrid maintenance at 15,000km intervals or once a year thus pocketing savings in the 25% to 40% range.

Photo: Toyota

From press release

Takuma Sato has been announced by Formula E organizers as one of the drivers who will assist with the development work of the new zero emission car over the coming months, together with current test driver Lucas di Grassi.


Sato remains one of Japan's most well-known drivers securing a podium (US GP) and nine points finishes during the 2004 F1 season with BAR.

The 36-year-old switched to IndyCar in 2010 and this season scored his maiden victory at the Long Beach Grand Prix on his way to 17th overall.

Photo: FIA FE

“I am very excited to be a part of the Driver's Programme for the development of the Formula E cars,” Sato who will be one of several top drivers used to help develop the SRT_01E. 

“This series provides a huge potential for the future of motor racing and electric cars.

“I am sure that these fascinating new innovative multimedia contents will excite the new fans who will be watching this new series.

“I am very much looking forward to driving the test car this coming winter.”

Japanese Formula E team Super Aguri was also recently announced as one of the 10 teams that will take part in the inaugural season.

Hybrid-vehicle powertrains are usually comprised of a combustion engine, and one or more electric motors. While electric motors require little or no maintenance, the same logic does not apply to the combustion engine. Hybrid or not, these engines require periodic replacement of both oil and filter.

Highway Use
If you spend a lot of time cruising down highways, especially in the winter, a combustion engine is inevitably almost always in service, unless you're decelerating, driving downhill or stopping. As a combustion engine is doing most of the grunt work, you'll need to perform regularly scheduled maintenance, including engine oil and filter replacement. In the case of the Toyota Prius, the manufacturer recommends performing this service at 8,000km intervals.

City Driving
On the flip side, if most of your driving is of the city variety, chances are the electric motor carries the brunt of the load. City driving also implies a lot of braking that, through the regenerative braking system of your hybrid vehicle, keeps your battery charged, which in turn allows you to use the electric motor even longer. In this scenario, the combustion engine is rarely solicited, will never overheat, and therefore extend service intervals such as oil and filter changes into the 15,000km or 12-month threshold.

Photo: Toyota

The all-new and highly anticipated Porsche Macan officially made its world debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As Porsche's first-ever compact SUV with a sports car-like driving experience, the Macan will go on sale in Canada next spring starting at $54,300 in S trim, and $82,200 in Turbo trim.

Photo: Porsche

The Porsche Macan features headlights and taillights that are reminiscent of the 918 Spyder hybrid supercar. Another highlight is the presence of “side blades” at the bottom of the front and rear doors. These are finished in Lava Black on Macan S, painted in body colour on Macan Turbo, and can be specified in genuine carbon as an option.

The Porsche Macan S offers standard 18'' wheels while 19'' wheels are standard for the Macan Turbo. A wide range of wheels (up to 21'' in size) are available on all models.

As for motivation, the Macan S exploits a new 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 340 horsepower, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, and burns 8.7-9.0L/100km. The 3.6L variant in the Macan Turbo produces 400 horsepower and propels the vehicle to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, with an average fuel consumption of 8.9-9.2L/100km.

Photo: Porsche

The interior of the Porsche Macan comes standard with a multifunction sport steering wheel (also reminiscent of the 918 Spyder), a 7'' HD touchscreen, and leather sport seats in Turbo trim.

Options include:
• 545-watt Bose and 1,000-watt Burmester audio systems;
• Dark Burl Walnut or Carbon interior finishes;
• Lane departure warning and lane change assist systems;
• Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Porsche Active Safe (PAS).

Circle December 5th on your calendar, folks: The all-new, sixth-generation 2015 Ford Mustang will finally make its debut -- some five months ahead of its 50th anniversary.

Using social media channels including Instagram, Ford will launch the new Mustang simultaneously in Dearborn (Mich.), New York, Los Angeles, Barcelona, Shanghai, and Sydney.

No technical specs have been released so far, but expect major changes and a design inspired from the Evos concept that premiered at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.

In the meantime, you can check out www.mustanginspires.com for pictures taken by Mustang fans all over the world.

Photo: Mustang

Another vehicle making its anticipated debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show is the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado. The redesigned midsize pickup truck will be available in three trim levels -- WT, LT, and Z71 -- as well as with three powertrains including a 193-horsepower 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, a 302-horsepower 3.6L V6, and a 2.8L Duramax turbodiesel (output TBD).

2015 Chevrolet Colorado. (Photo: Chevrolet)

In addition, buyers will have a choice of three configurations:
Extended cab with a 6' bed;
Crew cab with a 5' bed;
Crew cab with a 6' bed.

With the tailgate down, the 6' bed allows hauling of 8' long items. Meanwhile, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado's towing capacity amounts to 6,700 lbs (3,039 kg).

The exterior design features a gunmetal grille surround, projector headlamps, and unique 17'' aluminum wheels. For hauling duties, the new Colorado offers a standard CornerStep rear bumper design (pioneered on the 2014 Silverado), an available EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate, 13 standard tie-down locations throughout the bed for use with optional, movable cargo tie-down rings, as well as standard bed rail and tailgate protectors.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado. (Photo: Chevrolet)

The cabin of the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado includes an upright instrument panel with large instruments and a 3.4'' driver information centre (similar to the Silverado), a centre console with a floor-mounted shifter and an open area at the front for easier phone charging, plus a sculpted headliner that enhances headroom.

As for technologies, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado can be equipped with an 8'' touchscreen, a navigation system, next-generation OnStar and MyLink enhancements with gesture recognition and natural language voice recognition, not to mention advanced safety systems such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning.

Prices for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado will be announced later.

Today marked the world premiere of the new 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Scheduled to hit the market next spring, this powerful and fuel-efficient luxury sedan combines a 3.5L V6 engine (rated at 310 horsepower) with three electric motors (including two in the rear). With a net output of 377 horsepower, it sprints from 0-100 km/h in V8-like times while offering 4-cylinder fuel economy.

The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is the first Acura vehicle to feature an electronic gear selector, which replaces the conventional shift lever with an efficiently packaged push-button array that allows the driver to easily select the desired drive mode -- Park, Drive, or Reverse.

Photo: Acura

The very spacious and upscale interior of the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD includes head-up display, the AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system, and a 14-speaker surround sound system. A large, 8'' colour screen combines audio/information and navigation functions while providing access to an array of customizable features. An additional 7'' colour On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen is also positioned within easy reach.

The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD comes with many standard safety features such as:
• Multi-angle rearview camera;
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS);
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW);
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS);
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow;
• Blind Spot Information (BSI) system.

With a longer wheelbase and wider side glass than competitors, the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD also sports Jewel Eye LED headlights and LED taillights, while its advanced body structure makes extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum.

Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix will mark the last Formula 1 race for Cosworth, putting an end to a brilliant era.

Cosworth was founded in 1958 in Great Britain by Mike Costin and Keith Duckworth.

Their first Formula 1 engine, the acclaimed DFV came to life in 1966 when Colin Chapman, Lotus Cars founder and principal of Team Lotus, persuaded Ford to bankroll Duckworth's design for a new lightweight three-litre F1V8 engine.

The original Ford Cosworth DFV (Photo: WRI2)

The DFV won on its first outing, at the 1967 Dutch Grand Prix in the hands of Jim Clark, fitted to a Lotus 49. From 1968, the Ford Cosworth DFV was available for purchase to any F1 team that wished it.

The DFV is the second winningest engine in F1 behind Ferrari, having claimed 176 victories.

Cosworth then produced several other F1 engines to match the current regulations such as the V6 Ford turbo, the HB, the Zetec-R, the CR series and the CA series.

In 2004, American millionaires Kevin Kalkhoven and Gerald Forsythe purchased the Cosworth and Pi Group companies from Ford.

The Cosworth-powered Marussia, US Grand Prix in Austin (Photo: René Fagnan)

The Cosworth CA2013 will power the Marussias of Jules Bianchi and Max Chilton for the last time Sunday at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Statistics* of the original Cosworth company (1967-2004):
567 Grands Prix
38 seasons
68 constructors
323 drivers
176 victories
139 pole positions
160 fastest laps
535 podiums
4,336.50 points
7.65 pts / GP
114.12 pts / season
10,695 laps in the lead
49,290 km in the lead
260,847 laps completed
1,227,648 km covered
Claimed drivers' world championship in 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1994

Statistics* of the new Cosworth company (2005-2013):
113 Grands Prix
6 seasons
8 constructors
37 drivers
1 pole position
1 fastest lap
127 points
1.12 pts / GP
21.17 pts / season
5 laps in the lead
25 km in the lead
25,162 laps completed
127,905 km covered

* Statistic provided by Statsf1.com

My entire week behind the wheel of the 2013 Land Rover LR4 I felt as if I was keeping a feral cat trapped in a garage, and not because it was so raucous and chaotic on the road, but because I was keeping it from its wild nature, it's natural habit: the great outdoors.

Sure, the LR4 is a lumbering luxurious people mover, but it's also a rough-and-tough off-roader -- and that's the true beauty of a Land Rover.

Once again I was reminded how quickly I'd drop the many dollars needed to own one of these British brutes after my time behind the wheel.


What is a Land Rover LR4?
Capable, courteous, and cautiously beautiful, the Land Rover LR4 has remained throughout its four generations a luxurious off-roader for the high-class and well-off of the world.

As utilitarian as it is amenity-laden, the Land Rover LR4 is the go-to vehicle of well-to-do country dwellers in need of an off-roader that's just as welcome at the country club as it is on the back roads. And that's the true beauty of the LR4, because it truly is as comfortable in either location.

Capable, courteous, and cautiously beautiful, the Land Rover LR4 has remained throughout its four generations a luxurious off-roader for the high-class and well-off of the world. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Land Rover LR4 Price and Specs
The 2013 Land Rover LR4 is available in three trim levels (base, HSE and HSE LUX); the Land Rover LR4's base price is $59,490. The top of the line HSE LUX model jumps to the $70,790 mark.

Across the line, all 2013 Land Rover LR4 models are equipped with an LR-V8 5.0L engine good for 375 horsepower. A 6-speed CommandShift transmission handles the power. With its 2-speed transfer gearbox, and Land Rover's 4-Corner Electronic Air Suspension and Terrain Response, the LR4 truly is built to handle whatever you throw its way.

All 2013 Land Rover LR4 models are equipped with an LR-V8 5.0L engine good for 375 horsepower. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Land Rover LR4
It doesn't matter if you're traversing the urban sprawl to pick up the kids at school or fighting through the muddy back roads to get to your secluded cottage for the weekend; the 2013 Land Rover LR4 will do each (and more) with aplomb.

The LR4 really can do anything. There are few, if any, luxury SUVs I'd take through mid-car levels of water, but I've done it in the LR4. In the same vein, if I were to choose a vehicle to pull up to a party in, I'd choose the LR4, too. It's the ideal blend of class and crass.

There's no denying this is a massive vehicle (if I don't engage “load height” for entry and exit, it can be quite the sight to see), but it doesn't feel huge when you're behind the wheel. Of course, all-around cameras help in stickier parking-lot situations where size can be an issue, but otherwise, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 is a pleasure to drive.

It's not about speed or agility in this behemoth, but more about poise, grace and ability -- all of which it has in spades.

It doesn't matter if you're traversing the urban sprawl to pick up the kids at school or fighting through the muddy back roads to get to your secluded cottage for the weekend; the 2013 Land Rover LR4 will do each with aplomb. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Land Rover LR4
I'm a huge fan of the new Landie face. Designers did a great job updating the off-roader to modern standards, without losing its rugged heritage-inspired look. True, the '13 Landie is as boxy as ever, but I think that's just perfect. That's what a Land Rover is supposed to look like -- leave the fancy looks for the Ranges.

Decked out in white with black satin grille, Land Rover badging and 19” alloy wheels, my tester was quite the looker. I love the black-on-white look and think it adds a certain youthful look to the LR. This isn't an SUV that will appeal to the masses due to its purposeful exterior poise, but I love it.

Inside, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 received some key upgrades with soft-touch materials, mood lighting and unique rear seat combinations (35:30:35 available). Some might not realize it, but the LR4 is actually the “least luxurious” along with the LR2. The Range Rovers are the silver-spoon Landies in the family, while the LRs are there to do a job, and do it well. That's not the say the interior isn't comfy, because it so is.

Of course, Land Rover's onboard entertainment system is a constant source of contention for me. Fingers crossed they'll change it one day soon...

Inside, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 received some key upgrades with soft-touch materials, mood lighting and unique rear seat combinations. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Land Rover LR4
Sixty-five years of experience in the world of off-roading kinda makes you untouchable, however, the Land Rover LR4 isn't alone in its luxurious abilities. In fact, I'd say it has a formidable opponent in the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC simply because the Merc offers a diesel powerplant where the Land Rover doesn't.

From GMM

Vitaly Petrov has admitted he could switch to the German touring car series DTM in 2014.

The Russian has been looking to return to formula one, having lost his Caterham seat at the end of last season.

"I have contacted Mercedes to find out their situation (regarding DTM)," Petrov told the Russian publication Championat. "I also know the situation in BMW. You could even say that I have the budget for DTM."

The two Canadian drivers fighting in DTM. (Photo: DTM)

Vitaly Petrov, 29, said arranging his return to F1 is more of a "headache", but insists the pinnacle of motor racing remains his top priority.

However, Championat said Petrov is also set to imminently test a rally car.

Asked what his chances are of a return to F1 for 2014, he answered: "Basically the same as before. I am talking and waiting.

"Obviously the Williams seat is gone, but I am still talking with three teams," revealed Petrov.

What's new?
The true beauty of all Porsche vehicles is that they may appear to change so little from year to year, and yet beneath that sensual body that has essentially stayed the same, a myriad of upgrades and enhancements have been made to make it that much better. The same is true of the 2014 iteration of the Porsche 911 Turbo. What was already a stunning and powerful vehicle on both the road and the track is now even more so thanks to a selection of upgrades and improvements.

First and foremost, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo has greater engine power and an improved PDK transmission that is also now standard. Used for the very first time in a road car, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo features the new Porsche Active Aerodynamics and also has new rear-axle steering.

From the outside, the 2014 911 Turbo is wider and they now offer two-tone 20” wheels.


Interior
There are no significant changes to the interior of the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo. Standard Porsche looks and amenities are on offer, and as always a wide arrange of options are available so you can fully customize your 911 Turbo from wood to aluminum to wood or even carbon.

Powertrain
The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo features a 3.8L boxer twin-turbo engine with variable turbine geometry in the rear. Power is up from the previous model and sits at the 520 horsepower mark now, while torque is at 487 lb-ft. Despite the increase in power, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo manages to be 16% more fuel efficient, helped by the PDK system that enables an auto start/stop function that activates earlier during coasting. Porsche has the 2014 911 Turbo fuel efficiency number at 9.7L/100km for it and Turbo S.

Porsche has also introduced a new all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control. This, in combination with the engine and transmission allows the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo (equipped with an optional Sport Chrono Package) to sprint from 0-100km/hr in just 3.2 seconds.

In short
The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo is essentially an improvement upon something that was already pretty darn good. If you didn't want one before (first, you're crazy), you'll surely want one now.

Photo: Porsche

Compact cars are big business in the Canadian marketplace. Virtually every mainstream automaker offers a used compact model for shoppers to consider. Used compacts are big business in the used car marketplace, too. The promise of fuel-efficient operation, easy-to-drive dynamics, and relatively low asking prices are all to thank.

If you're considering an affordable, fuel-efficient used compact as your next ride, be sure to check out our list of the draws and common issues with some of the used-car scene's most popular compact products.

Remember: If you're uncertain of the condition of the model you're considering, your favourite mechanic will be glad to help.

Further, remember that the little 4-cylinder engines in most of the models listed below have a timing belt that requires replacement at set intervals. As failure of this belt can result in catastrophic engine damage, be sure to determine where the timing belt sits within its life cycle on the model you're considering.

2006 to 2011 Honda Civic

2009 Honda Civic (Photo: Matthieu Lambert)

The Draw: Honda's Civic has long been the Canadian market's elemental compact car. Look for sedan and coupe body styles, a long list of standard safety gear, and the promise of reliable long-term performance and value that have defined the model for decades. Owners rave about build quality, gas mileage, trouble-free operation, and overall comfort and refinement. All models are 4-cylinder, front-wheel drive, making the shopping process easy.

What to Check: Pay close attention to the suspension on this generation of Civic. Listen for any unwelcomed sounds as you travel over bumps at various speeds and angles. Popping or clunking typically indicates a worn-out suspension component. Though rare, there have been a few reports of blown head gaskets. Engine oil in the coolant supply, or vice versa, are good indicators of a bad head gasket. Shoppers are advised to check the condition and levels of all fluids, regardless. Be sure tires and brakes are up to spec, and bring the VIN number to your local Honda dealer to determine if any outstanding recall work needs to be performed.

2009 Honda Civic engine (Photo: Matthieu Lambert)

Continue reading Popular Used Compact Cars

Subtle Elegance
The modifications and updates applied to the 2014 BMW 5 Series are quite subtle. They include standard xenon adaptive headlights, restyled front grille, elegantly contoured taillights and automatic glare-free High Beam Assistant.


Price
The BMW 528i starts at $56,695. An additional $2,400 is required to purchase the all-wheel drive 528i xDrive.

The BMW 535i xDrive is available at a starting price of $64,900. The 550i xDrive starts at $75,900.

The ActiveHybrid 5 has a MSRP of $71,150.

Fuel Economy
The rear-wheel drive 528i consumes 8.5 L/100 km city and 5.7 L/100 km highway.
The all-wheel drive version consumes an extra 0.5 L/100 km.

The 6-cylinder 535i xDrive consumes an estimated 9.8 L/100 km city and 6.5 L/100 km highway.

Estimated fuel consumption for the V8 engine is between 12.7 L/100 km and 13.2 L/100 km city and 7.9 L/100 km and 8.3 L/100 km highway.

Exterior Styling
The BMW 5 Series sedan is a classic. The somber and fluid design, which has passed the test of time, belies its sporty demeanor.

Drivetrain
The German manufacturer offers a choice of three engines. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that delivers 241 hp and 258 lb-ft torque is installed under the hood of both 528i and 528i xDrive.

The 535i XDrive is powered by a turbocharged in-line 6-cylinder that produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft torque.

A hybrid option is available. It consists of this same 6-cylinder engine combined to a 55 hp electric motor for a total of 335 hp, which is delivered to the rear wheels.

Last, but not least, a twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 can be found under the hood of the 550i. This engine delivers 400 hp and 450 lb-ft torque. These engines are all mated to the same 8-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

Cargo Capacity
The trunk can hold 520 liters of cargo.

Safety
This model is equipped with six airbags and numerous standard and optional safety features.

Comparable Models
Acura RLX, Audi A6, Cadillac XTS, Infiniti M, Jaguar XF, Lexus GS, Lincoln MKS, Mercedes-Benz E Class, Volvo S80

Photo: BMW

What's new?
For the 2013 model year, Nissan improved on what was already an impressive mass-produced electric car.

Of note, the 2013 Nissan LEAF now features greatly reduced charging times and overall improved efficiency. As well, a new more basic “S” to go along with the existing SV and SL trims is now available. The new entry-level trim also lowers the base price to a very affordable $31,698.

At the other end of the spectrum, leather seats, Bose audio, and 17” wheels are now on offer.

No changes are expected for the 2014 model year LEAF as the 2013 was launched in late summer.


Interior
The 2013 Nissan LEAF's cabin is largely unchanged from 2012. Alterations are limited to a standard leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel, new black interior colour, and sun visor extensions.

Onboard improvements include the relocation of the charger to the front of the vehicle to create more trunk space. Gauges now feature a state of charge percentage indicator included in the trip computer for more accurate energy monitoring.

Powertrain
The 2013 Nissan LEAF maintains the same powertrain as before. The LEAF features an advanced lithium-ion battery comprised of 48 compact modules and an 80kW AC synchronous motor good for 107 horsepower and 187 lb-ft of torque.

The transmission selector now has a "B" drive mode that increases regenerative braking during deceleration.

In short
The improved and now standard 6.6 kW onboard charger reduces 220V charging times from roughly seven to four hours for a full charge. If you're in a rush, the LEAF's batteries can be charged to 80% in only 30 minutes.

The lithium-ion battery pack carries an 8-year or 160,000 kilometre warranty.

The 2013 Nissan LEAF is assembled in Smyrna, Tenn. The batteries are also produced on the premises.

Fuel economy
Not need to worry about this...

Competition
The 2013 Nissan LEAF plays ball with the likes of the Ford Focus EV as well as the Chevrolet Volt.

Photo: Nissan

Summary
The distinguished, sporty style and high-quality fit and finish make the 2014 Chrysler the cream of the luxury sport-sedan crop. Available in several popular versions, it's the vehicle of choice for a wide variety of customers.


Price (base)

• 300 Touring: $34,925
• 300S: $38,295
• 300C: $39,295
• 300C Luxury Series: $41,295
• 300 SRT: $49,395

Under the Hood
The 2014 Chrysler 300 is delivered with a standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 VVT engine that produces 292 hp. Two V8 options include a 5.7-liter 363 hp V8 HEMI and a 6.4-liter 470 hp V8 HEMI. The V6 is mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission with an all-wheel drive option also available. The V8 engines are matched to a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy (city/highway)

• 6-cylinder: 10.9/6.4 L/100 km and 11.4/7.3 L/100 km (AWD)
• V8 5.7 L: 14.1/7.8 L/100 km and 13.5/8.0 L/100 km (AWD)
• V8 6.4 L: 15.0/8.7 L/100 km

Exterior Styling
The 2014 Chrysler 300 has an aggressive stance, body-coloured door handles, chrome grille, LED headlights and a choice of 17 to 20-inch wheels.

Interior Styling
The spacious cabin is covered in refined, quality soft-touch materials and is equipped with ambient LED lighting, a leather-covered steering wheel and superior soundproofing. Luxurious Nappa leather seating is standard on the 300C and available as an option in the remaining versions.

Technology
A sophisticated infotainment system, humidity sensor, Sirius satellite radio as well as pushbutton stop/start are just a small sample of the numerous technological features available in the 2014 Chrysler 300. A Harman/Kardon or Beats Audio system, as well as navigation package can also be added to this model.

Safety
The 300 is equipped with seven airbags, including side curtains and passenger knee protection in addition to electronic stability control. Available safety options include:

• Adaptive forward lighting system for improved visibility;
• Adaptive cruise control;
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection;
• Park View backup camera.

Comparable Models
Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Genesis, Lincoln MKZ, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon

Photo: Chrysler