Auto News 5

After a two-year delay, the Detroit 3 say they will use a common standard to rate the towing capacities of their light-duty pickups. The standard will allow shoppers to compare accurately the towing capability of pickups.

Supplies of unsold vehicles have ballooned to the highest level since the recession, and U.S. sales growth has slowed significantly in the past five months.

The Twittersphere is probably the last thing on the mind of new General Motors CEO Mary Barra.

Chase Auto Finance is cutting car-loan availability to about 1,800 dealerships so it can focus on its higher-volume stores. TD Auto Finance has hinted that it also will stop doing business with some of its dealerships.

UAW hopes a victory in Chattanooga this week will finally give it a foothold for expansion in the South's foreign-owned auto plants after three decades of struggles to organize their workers.

Enjoying a huge windfall from a weakening yen, Japan's automakers are putting a half-decade of travails behind them and entering a golden age of record profits.

Infiniti's Q30 will win sales in Europe by offering features not found in the crowded compact premium segment led by models such as the Audi A3, Nissan design boss Shiro Nakamura says.

In a show of support for all Canadian athletes participating in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, MINI uniquely fulfilled its duties as official sponsor of Team Canada with the following rendition of our national anthem by a bunch of MINI cars.



Source: You Tube

Five exciting new models from Chrysler Group will be on display at the 2014 Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto later this week.

2015 Chrysler 200
After making its world debut in Detroit a month ago, the redesigned 2015 Chrysler 200 will go on sale in Canada in the third quarter of this year at $22,495. In addition to becoming the first midsize sedan with a 9-speed automatic transmission, the new 200 offers a 184-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and a 295-horsepower V6.

Photo: Chrysler

2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker
Introduced at the SEMA Show last November, the 2014 Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features a hood scoop, adjustable exhaust note, black racing stripes, and Super Track Pak. Automotive News previously reported that Chrysler will build 1,000 units.

2014 Dodge Dart Blacktop
Fresh from its premiere in Detroit, the 2014 Dodge Dart Blacktop makes its way to Toronto offering seven different body colours. It also sports 18'' wheels, a blacked-out grille, dual exhaust, and race-style LED taillights.

Photo: Dodge

2014 Fiat 500c GQ
Designed with the help of GQ magazine, this special Fiat boasts unique 5-spoke 16'' wheels, new Gloss Nero black lamp clusters, and ''GQ500'' logos embroidered on the seats. Under the hood is a 1.4L turbocharged MultiAir engine that produces 160 horsepower and propels the car from 0-100 km/h in less than seven seconds.

Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler
Based on the Wrangler Sport, the Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler rides on 17'' BF Goodrich tires and sports gloss black grille and bumper trim pieces. Motivation comes from a 285-horsepower 3.6L V6 mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic.

Source : fr.autofocus.ca

What happens when you want it all? The best of both worlds; your cake and to eat it, too? Most would laugh and say you're asking for too much, that you don't understand how life is and that we all have to make compromises along the way, that's just the way the world works. Well, we're here to tell you that those people just haven't heard the term "Grand Coupe" -- and it's high time they did.

See, there's no need to give anything up along the way, in fact we're all for bigger is better. Less is more? We think not.

So, that's precisely why we gathered a group of larger-than-life vehicles to prove that there really is a solution for those who don't want to sacrifice, don't want to compromise, when it comes to their daily drivers. While these individuals may have outgrown their sport coupe models and are in need of more space, they don't want to give up that sporty, responsive ride. What to do? Why, buy a grand coupe of course.

What exactly is a grand coupe? Well, in simple terms it's a four-door coupe. Confused? Don't be. Vehicle designers conjured up a nifty little way to maintain the coupe shape of their vehicles without losing two doors. Along with that external design they also managed to engineer their four-door automobiles to drive and handle like coupes, too.

No compromise needed.

If you're in the market for such a vehicle, your choices aren't just grand in size, but also in performance and price. So, how to choose the best? Well, we decided to do the legwork for you (and what truly hard work it was, trust us) and we put together a quartet of grand coupes. Despite the below-zero temperatures and fresh layer of snow, we put these grand rides to the test (three of the four were equipped with an all-wheel drive system anyways, so why not?).

The players? In no particular order: the ">2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive, 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupe, 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG, and the 2014 Audi RS 7. All grand. All German. All good.

Continue reading 2014 4-door Super Coupes Comparison Test

Pros: A pleasant ride, impressive safety content, good visibility, as well as an available turbo engine and MyLink infotainment system make the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic a compelling sub-compact car.



Cons: The base powerplant is not really fuel-efficient, material quality is disappointing, and the rear seats prove tight and uncomfortable.

2014 Chevrolet Sonic Price: The sedan offers three trim levels -- LS, LT, and LTZ -- with prices starting at $13,995. The hatchback comes in LS, LT, LTZ, and RS models ranging from $14,495 to $23,995. That does not include options and other charges.

2014 Chevrolet Sonic Fuel Economy: Ratings for the base engine in the city are 7.7L/100km and 8.3L/100km for the manual and automatic versions, respectively. On the highway, they drop to around 5.5L/100km. 

Meanwhile, the turbo engine sips between 7.3-7.8L/100km in the city, and 5.1-5.6L/100km on the highway, depending on the transmission. The sporty RS model is a bit thirstier, though.

Photo: Chevrolet

Improvements and Changes: All-new for 2014 (available on LT and LTZ models) is the Advanced Safety Package that includes Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. A rearview camera has also been added to the options list.

2014 Chevrolet Sonic Powertrain: The 1.8L 4-cylinder Ecotec produces 138 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque via a standard 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 6-speed automatic transmission. 

LTZ and RS models use a 1.4L turbocharged Ecotec that also generates 138 horsepower, but increases peak torque to 148 lb-ft. With this mill, the manual transmission gains a sixth gear, and the automatic is once again optional.

Cargo Capacity: The sedan can load up to 422 litres in its trunk -- more than a number of compact cars. The 5-door hatchback can hold 538 litres of cargo behind the rear seats, and 1,351 litres when you fold them down.

Safety: Boasting a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic comes standard with no fewer than 10 airbags, OnStar assistance, stability control, and hill-start assist.

Comparing the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic: Several other sub-compact cars are available on the Canadian market including the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Mazda 2, Mitsubishi Mirage, Nissan Versa Note, and Toyota Yaris.

Pros: The Lexus lineup is undergoing a rejuvenation, and that includes the Lexus ES. Styling has been revised so as to make the car look much sleeker and more organic than in years past. The interior has benefited from significant upgrades, too, not to mention extra rear-seat legroom. On the road, this Lexus remains super-smooth and reliable.

Cons: All is not roses and sunshine with the ES 350. The mouse-like Remote Touch controller is hardly what I'd call ''user-friendly'' -- why not a conventional touchscreen instead? Also, beware of pricey options.

2014 Lexus ES 350 Price: Speaking of which, a single trim level appears on the ES 350 menu, and it starts at $39,750. However, buyers can select one of four different packages including Premium ($2,000), Leather & Navigation ($4,600), Technology ($12,100), and Touring ($8,900).

Photo: Lexus

2014 Lexus ES 350 Fuel Economy: Despite weighing 1,610 kilos, the Lexus ES 350 boasts middle-of-the-pack ratings of 9.9L/100km in the city and 6.4L/100km on the highway.

Improvements and Changes: Other than a few cosmetic updates, there's nothing new outside or inside the Lexus ES 350 for 2014.

2014 Lexus ES 350 Powertrain: The smooth 3.5L DOHC V6 engine under the hood of the ES 350 produces 268 horsepower through a 6-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the larger GS, all-wheel drive is not an option.

Cargo Capacity: The accommodating trunk of the 2014 Lexus ES 350 can swallow 430 litres worth of luggage for your long trips.

Safety: Standard features include stability and traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, as well as smart stop technology, which automatically cuts engine power and allows the brakes to take precedence over the accelerator when both pedals are pressed at the same time. Let's not forget the 10 airbags and available technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.

Comparing the 2014 Lexus ES 350: Similar luxury sedans worth checking out include the Volvo S60, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50, Lincoln MKZ, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Pros: The 2014 Chevrolet Trax is a small SUV with a cute, bulldog-like face, impressive safety content, a comfortable ride in the city, and a perfect size for easily navigating through traffic. Let's not forget the highly affordable base model, numerous storage compartments, and available MyLink interface.

Cons: On the other hand, the Trax has a number of drawbacks including a fairly soft suspension that results in significant body roll in corners, a noisy engine at higher revs, less-than-ideal fit and finish, as well as expensive high-end models.

2014 Chevrolet Trax Price: From LS to 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ, the Trax lineup offers plenty of selection. Prices vary a lot, too -- from $18,695 to $30,345.

Photo: Chevrolet

2014 Chevrolet Trax Fuel Economy: Depending on the transmission you select, the 2014 Chevrolet Trax burns 7.8-8.1L/100km in the city and 5.7-5.9L/100km on the highway in FWD configuration. These numbers rise to 8.7 and 6.5L/100km, respectively, when AWD is part of the equation.

Powertrain: The 1.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged Ecotec engine generates 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The base LS model gets a standard 6-speed manual transmission; the optional 6-speed autobox is the only transmission available with higher trim levels. While all-wheel drive can be specified, the 2014 Chevrolet Trax is not designed for off-road driving.

Cargo Capacity: The trunk can haul up to 530 litres of cargo. Once you fold the rear seats, the volume increases to 1,371 litres.

Safety: Standard features include no fewer than 10 airbags, OnStar assistance, stability control, ABS, and hill-start assist.

Comparing the 2014 Chevrolet Trax: Interested in a small SUV/CUV? Your shopping should also include the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi RVR, and Subaru XV Crosstrek.

Pros: The 2014 Cadillac XTS delivers remarkable handling for a large sedan. Credit goes to GM's Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which continually adjusts to road and driving conditions to maximize ride quality and grip. Meanwhile, the lavish interior features plenty of refined materials. It's a Cadillac, after all!

Cons: Technology is good, but do potential XTS customers really care? The new infotainment system called CUE (Cadillac User Experience) has a slick touchscreen interface with motion recognition and voice command, but it's generally slow to respond. Designers need to keep working on it.

2014 Cadillac XTS Price: The front-wheel-drive XTS comes in four trim levels including base ($50,990), Luxury ($54,700), Premium ($59,450), and Platinum ($67,910). With all-wheel drive, there are five models to choose from: Luxury ($56,550), Premium ($61,470), Premium Vsport twin-turbo ($67,625), Platinum ($69,940), and Platinum Vsport twin-turbo ($75,795). These prices include freight and delivery charges.

Photo: Cadillac

2014 Cadillac XTS Fuel Economy: A naturally aspirated Cadillac XTS will burn around 10L/100km during combined city-highway driving. A twin-turbocharged variant will slightly exceed 11L/100km on average.

Improvements and Changes: For its second year on the market, the 2014 Cadillac XTS gains a twin-turbocharged V6 (optional) as well as some advanced technologies like Automatic Parking Assist, automatic headlights, rear-seat entertainment, and a front passenger seat with memory.

2014 Cadillac XTS Powertrain: Aimed at younger buyers, this full-size luxury sedan offers two compelling V6 options starting with a more fuel-efficient 304-horsepower unit. As mentioned, the alternative is a twin-turbocharged version producing 410 horsepower. Both use direct injection and transfer power to the driving wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Cargo Capacity: In true Cadillac fashion, the 2014 XTS boasts a massive trunk that can swallow up to 509 litres worth of luggage.

Safety: ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, and traction control all come standard. Options include Forward Collision Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, plus the Safety Alert Seat which generates vibrations on the left or right side of the driver's seat to signal which side a vehicle is approaching.

Comparing the 2014 Cadillac XTS: You should check out other great sedans such as the Acura RLX, Audi A6/A8, BMW 5 Series/7 Series, Hyundai Equus, Infiniti Q70, Lexus LS, Lincoln MKS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class/S-Class, and Volvo S80.

Pros: Buy the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro if you're looking for a genuine American sports coupe that offers plenty of selection, acceleration, and recognition, not to mention the added confidence of top-notch safety features. Performance enthusiasts will love the ZL1's infernal V8, while the frugal V6 will help you save money at the pump.

Cons: Skip the Camaro if you're after something extremely small, light and nimble. Despite providing a lot of grip and handling prowess, it's a big, heavy car and drives like one. What's more, the rear seats and trunk opening are tight, visibility is poor, and the steering wheel should be revised.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Price: Pricing for the 2014 Camaro lineup was not available at the time of writing.

Photo: Chevrolet

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Fuel Economy: With no changes to the powerplants, expect the same ratings as last year. Thanks to a direct-injected V6, the Camaro burns as little as 6.6L/100km on the highway in its most fuel-efficient setup.

Improvements and Changes: The most significant styling update since the launch of the fifth-generation Camaro in 2010 includes high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. Compared to the previous model, the design represents a strong visual change front and rear, resulting in a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance. The headlights and taillights sport a new shape, too, while Recaro front seats are now available in SS trim and standard in the ZL1.

Of course, the biggest news for 2014 is the return of the popular Z/28 -- the lightest and most track-capable Camaro ever. This one receives the outgoing Corvette Z06's 7.0L V8, a full aerodynamics package, as well as unique braking and suspension components. It's scheduled to hit the market this spring.

Powertrain: The base LS and LT models get a 3.6L V6 that produces 323 horsepower. SS models benefit from a 6.2L V8 generating up to 426 horsepower. The extreme ZL1 adds a supercharger and other high-tech bits to destroy the road with 580 ponies and 556 lb-ft of torque.
All Camaros are rear-wheel drive, and most can be specified with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission (Z/28: manual only).

Photo: Chevrolet

Cargo Capacity: The 2014 Chevrolet Camaro's trunk can hold up to 320 litres of cargo.

Safety: Standard equipment includes stability and traction control, OnStar assistance, and six airbags. Some of the higher trim levels stand out with high-performance Brembo brakes.

Comparing the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro: The Camaro's arch nemesis is the Ford Mustang, but let's not forget other great coupes such as the Dodge Challenger, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and more upscale models like the Audi A5.

Pros: The 2014 Audi S4 stands out with a lowered and tightened suspension (featuring an available sport rear differential), sexy looks, standard all-wheel drive, a powerful V6 that's surprisingly fuel-efficient, as well as a rich combination of luxury, refinement, and technology.

Cons: Once again, the multimedia interface will not prove user-friendly to all drivers. Some would have liked a more aggressive design, too. As for driving dynamics, our reviewers say the S4 is heavier and less dynamic than a BMW, yet not as comfortable and accommodating as a Mercedes-Benz.

2014 Audi S4 Price: As was the case last year, the lineup includes two trim levels -- Progressiv, and Technik. The first one starts at $53,000, and the second retails from $57,800.

Photo: Audi

2014 Audi S4 Fuel Economy: Expect to burn 13.1L/100km in the city and 8.3L/100km on the highway with the manual transmission. These numbers drop to 11.7L/100km and 7.7L/100km, respectively, when opting for the dual-clutch autobox.

Improvements and Changes: A new colour can be specified -- Volcano Red. Standard Audi xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights not only create a striking on-road impression, they use less energy and have a longer service life than conventional lighting. Also, an innovative S sound actuator integrated in the exhaust system enhances the acoustics and emphasizes the performance attributes of the engine.

Powertrain: The 2014 Audi S4 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a mere 5.1 seconds thanks to a 3.0L supercharged TFSI V6 engine with direct injection that channels its 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque through a standard 6-speed manual gearbox or the available 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. As mentioned earlier, power is distributed to all four wheels by way of Audi's acclaimed quattro system.

Cargo Capacity: Seat configuration can be arranged to expand cargo room from 352 to 962 litres.

Safety: Six standard airbags keep 2014 Audi S4 occupants protected from the front and sides, while stability control helps secure the trajectory at all times. In the event of a collision, intelligent sensors automatically unlock the doors, switch on interior and hazard lights, and cut off fuel flow to the engine. Audi side assist (blind spot monitoring) and a parking system with rearview camera are optional.

Comparing the 2014 Audi S4: The BMW 335i xDrive, Cadillac ATS Premium V6 AWD, Lexus IS 350 AWD, Mercedes-Benz C 350 4MATIC, and Volvo S60 T6 AWD are all worthy competitors of the S4.

Pros: Buy the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet if you're looking for a genuine American convertible that offers plenty of selection, acceleration, and recognition, not to mention the added confidence of top-notch safety features. The thick and durable cloth top makes the interior comfortable and quiet. Plus, as a 2+2 car, you can drive your kids (or grandkids) around.

Cons: Skip the Camaro Cabriolet if you're after something extremely small, light and nimble. Despite providing a lot of grip and handling prowess, it's a big, heavy car and drives like one.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet Price: Pricing for the 2014 Camaro lineup was not available at the time of writing.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet Fuel Economy: With no changes to the powerplants, expect the same ratings as last year. Thanks to a direct-injected V6, the Camaro Cabriolet burns as little as 6.6L/100km on the highway in its most fuel-efficient setup.

Photo: Chevrolet

Improvements and Changes: The most significant styling update since the launch of the fifth-generation Camaro in 2010 includes high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds, as well as a wider, lower, more contemporary appearance.

Alas, the newly resurrected Z/28 -- the lightest and most track-capable Camaro ever -- won't be available in drop-top configuration, at least not immediately.

Powertrain: The base LT models get a 3.6L V6 that produces 323 horsepower. SS models benefit from a 6.2L V8 generating up to 426 horsepower. The extreme ZL1 adds a supercharger and other high-tech bits to destroy the road with 580 ponies and 556 lb-ft of torque.
All Camaro Cabriolets are rear-wheel drive and can be specified with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Cargo Capacity: The 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet's trunk can hold up to 289 litres of cargo with the top up, but just 221 litres when it's down.

Safety: Standard equipment includes stability and traction control, OnStar assistance, as well as front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. Some of the higher trim levels stand out with high-performance Brembo brakes.

Comparing the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Cabriolet: The most direct threat obviously comes from the Ford Mustang Cabriolet, but we should also mention the Nissan 370Z Roadster (two seats only). The more upscale Audi A5 Cabriolet, BMW 3 Series Cabriolet, and Infiniti Q60 Convertible deserve consideration, too.

Pros: Sleek styling (especially with the S line Sport package), a high-quality interior, quiet ride, impeccable handling, supportive seats, and the legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system are some of the attributes that make the 2014 Audi A4 very attractive.

Cons: On the other hand, one could take issue with the relatively tight rear quarters, the not-so-intuitive human-machine interface, the absence of VW/Audi's acclaimed TDI engine, as well as some pricey options.

2014 Audi A4 Price: The lineup includes three main trim levels -- Komfort, Progressiv, and Technik. The first one starts at $37,800 (FWD only) or $39,900 (AWD); the second retails from $43,900; and the most luxurious trim costs at least $46,100.

Photo: Audi

2014 Audi A4 Fuel Economy: Expect to burn 8.6L/100km in the city and 6.2L/100km on the highway with a FWD model. Meanwhile, a Quattro equipped A4 with manual transmission has ratings of 9.4L/100km and 6.3L/100km, respectively.

Improvements and Changes: The TFSI engine gets a 9-horsepower bump for 2014, yet drinks the same amount of fuel. A few amenities were added as standard equipment, while a new black optics package is available to enhance the A4's looks. Reminder: The car received its mid-cycle update a year ago.

Powertrain: Under the hood of the 2014 Audi A4 is a 2.0L, 4-cylinder, turbocharged engine that churns out 220 horsepower, plus 258 lb-ft of torque at just 1,500 rpm. In FWD version, it's mated to a multitronic CVT; when paired with Quattro, buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. In all cases, the new A4 sprints from 0-100 km/h in less than seven seconds.

Cargo Capacity: Seat configuration can be arranged to expand cargo room from 352 to 962 litres.

Safety: Six standard airbags keep 2014 Audi A4 occupants protected from the front and sides, while stability control helps secure the trajectory at all times. In the event of a collision, intelligent sensors automatically unlock the doors, switch on interior and hazard lights, and cut off fuel flow to the engine. Audi side assist (blind spot monitoring) and a parking system with rearview camera are optional.

Comparing the 2014 Audi A4: Consider this small luxury sedan along with the Acura TSX/TL, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Volvo S60.

Pros: Like its entry-level cousin, the Dodge Grand Caravan, the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country is arguably the ultimate family vehicle. With numerous configurations available, tons of interior room for your passengers and cargo, and a perfectly matched engine/transmission combo, it's one the most versatile and flexible people haulers in Canada.

Cons: Reliability issues continue to affect the Town & Country, particularly in the braking department. Chrysler should keep working on improving build quality and material selection, too.

2014 Chrysler Town & Country Price: Pick one of four trim levels that best suits your needs and budget including Touring ($41,495), Touring-L ($43,495), 30th Anniversary ($44,990), and Limited ($47,495).

Photo: Chrysler

2014 Chrysler Town & Country Fuel Economy: Don't expect record-breaking numbers from the Town & Country, which weighs nearly two full tons. An average fuel consumption in the 10L/100km range is par for the course, here.

Improvements and Changes: No significant changes other than a new Blacktop edition with subtle design touches.

2014 Chrysler Town & Country Powertrain: Chrysler's lone powertrain option for this vehicle is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. Output is rated at 283 horsepower, while peak torque amounts to 260 lb-ft.

Cargo Capacity: This is one of the strengths of the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country. With all the rear seats up, there are 934 litres available for your gear. Once you fold the third-row seats, cargo room increases to 2,340 litres. Drop the second-row seats as well, and you'll wind up with 4,072 litres.

Safety: The Chrysler Town & Country features ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability and traction control, along with seven airbags including one for the driver's knees and side-curtain airbags that blanket outboard positions in all three rows of seating. Buyers can add a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-path detection, the Park-Sense rear park assist system, as well as rain-sensitive wipers and automatic headlamps.

Comparing the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country: Minivans are a dying breed, but you should take a look at the Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Nissan Quest, and Toyota Sienna before you go out and buy a 2014 Chrysler Town & Country.

Pros: The Lexus lineup is undergoing a rejuvenation, and that includes the Lexus ES. Styling has been revised so as to make the car look much sleeker and more organic than in years past. The interior has benefited from significant upgrades, too, not to mention extra rear-seat legroom. On the road, this Lexus remains super-smooth and reliable. In hybrid configuration, it's also more fuel-efficient than ever.

Cons: All is not roses and sunshine with the ES 300h. The mouse-like Remote Touch controller is hardly what I'd call ''user-friendly'' -- why not a conventional touchscreen instead? Also, beware of limited trunk space (due to the battery) and pricey options.

2014 Lexus ES 300h Price: Speaking of which, a single trim level appears on the ES 300h menu, and it starts at $44,100. However, buyers can select 1 of 3 different packages including Leather ($5,050), Navigation ($1,800), and Technology ($9,250).

Photo: Lexus

2014 Lexus ES 300h Fuel Economy: Despite weighing nearly 1,700 kilos, the Lexus ES 300h boasts impressive ratings of 4.7L/100km in the city and 5.1L/100km on the highway -- significantly better than the gas-only ES 350.

Improvements and Changes: The Lexus ES 300h is a new addition to the ES lineup for 2014.

2014 Lexus ES 300h Powertrain: As part of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, the smooth 2.5L DOHC Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine under the hood of the ES 300h teams up with an electric motor to produce 200 net horsepower through a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Cargo Capacity: The large battery reduces trunk space from 430 to 342 litres, which is still commendable.

Safety: Standard features include stability and traction control, disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, as well as smart stop technology, which automatically cuts engine power and allows the brakes to take precedence over the accelerator when both pedals are pressed at the same time. Let's not forget the 10 airbags and available technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.

Comparing the 2014 Lexus ES 300h: Midsize sedans with a focus on luxury and especially fuel economy include the Buick LaCrosse eAssist, Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, and Volkswagen Passat TDI.