Auto News 5

Volvo is never kidding when it comes to safety. After introducing airbags for pedestrians, the company now unveils a lightweight and inflatable rearward-facing child seat concept using ground-breaking technology.

Lawrence Abele, Design Manager at the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center in Los Angeles, is the designer behind the new seat. “For many, travelling with young children is a challenge; any assistance to simplify the parents' life with young children is a great thing,” he said.

The seat inflates in less than 40 seconds and deflates with an integrated pump. The total weight of the seat is less than five kilograms, half the weight of a modern seat. It's made from a very strong material called “drop-stitch” fabric, which is quite common in the boating industry.

No word yet on when Volvo plans to launch its inflatable child seat on the market.

Photo: Volvo

Bluffton, SC. Cadillac's top-of-the-line SUV doesn't sell in any huge numbers in Canada, roughly 1000 or so a year. However, it is a product that makes a rather important statement for the company. Often seen with Hollywood stars behind the wheel, it is the epitome of luxury in the American SUV world.

Yet it's not all about the “L” word. For those with larger families and/or with boats/trailers to haul, this is a classy workhorse of the finest order. In many ways, it's the tuxedo-clad tough guy of the SUV world. It is big, strong and powerful, with impeccable manners.


2015 Cadillac Escalade Prices & Specs
Pricing for the 2015 Cadillac Escalade 4WD starts at $79,900 for the well-equipped entry level. A luxury model comes next at $85,500, with a Premium model topping the range at $90,500 (Destination/freight is an additional $1700).

Power for the Escalade comes from an all-new EcoTec3 6.2L V8 engine rated at 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, which is close to a 5% increase in hp and 10% more torque over the outgoing model. This stump-pulling oomph is then mated to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.

The lineup includes the standard Escalade and the extended-length ESV edition, which offers a 14'' longer (355mm) wheelbase and approximately 20'' (508 mm) more in overall length, maximizing space for third-row passengers and nearly doubles the cargo space behind the third-row seat.

Canadian fuel economy numbers have yet to be announced but the U.S. media site quotes 14/21 MPGs (highway/city), which works out to approximately 16.8L/11.2L/100km. Premium fuel is recommended but not required.

The new Escalade is not featherweight with a base curb weight of 2,651 kg (5,845 lbs.). For those expecting to haul, know that the Big Caddy will tow up to 3 628 kg (8,000 lbs.) If the trailer can't hold all the gear, the Escalade will hold a maximum volume with the second row stowed of 2,667L (94.2 cu.ft). The Escalade ESV does better at 3,412L or 120.5 cu.ft.

Driving the 2015 Cadillac Escalade
GM calls this the quietest Escalade it's ever produced and I simply cannot argue with them on this. It is impressively quiet for such a large vehicle. It is also impressively large for such a quiet vehicle, yet this bulk tends to somewhat disappear once you're behind the wheel.

The new EcoTec3 6.2L V8 (L86) offers up power in abundance (0-100 km/h in just over six seconds!) and its Magnetic Ride Control suspension (standard) takes full advantage of this performance. For a sizable vehicle, the new Escalade positively carves twists and turns like a vehicle half its size, and floats over rough surfaces with little or no fuss or drama.

However, the big news here is the comfort level of its interior. Not only one of the quietest large SUVs I've ever experienced, but the whole redesigned interior simply oozes opulence. My only complaint concerns the rather old-fashioned pickup-style gear selector. Yes, I know it works well, but in a vehicle as luxurious as this, it now simply looks and feels out of place.

Inside and out of the 2015 Cadillac Escalade
Cadillac certainly went to town dressing up its new 2015 Escalade. This fourth-generation Escalade offers a bold new exterior design, yet is still instantly recognizable as an Escalade.

The full LED forward lighting units are simply drop-dead-gorgeous and, together with the rear vertical LEDs, make a huge impact on the vehicle. The rear has also been given a fresh clean new look by the rear wiper mechanism now being hidden from view, and the 2015 Escalade also features a standard hands-free, power-programmable liftgate; 20'' rims (22” optional) finish off the look, and I'll vouch for the vehicle being a proper attention grabber.

The exterior of the new Escalade is only bettered by the interior of the vehicle, which features hand-stitched and hand-wrapped leather, and includes genuine wood and metal trim materials throughout.

The quality leather seats are not only stylish in design but also extremely comfortable. With both second and third row seating being electronically controlled by buttons in the rear, it is now possible to fold down all seats for access to full cargo space with ease.

Comparing the 2015 Cadillac Escalade
With its new dressy exterior and its stunning redesigned interior, Cadillac has seriously raised the bar in the full-size luxury SUV market. The company lists the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, Range Rover, Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX 570, and Lincoln Navigator as its competitors. However, the Range Rover's lack of a third row places it totally out of the equation, and the others either lack the presence of the Escalade or its interior space.

In my opinion, if someone needs a sizeable family/boat/trailer hauler with more than a touch of class, then Cadillac has the market sewn up as neatly as its new interior leatherwork.

In order to raise public awareness about the dangers of speeding, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) has just launched a new safety initiative called “Ralentir, comment le dire?” (how do you tell a driver to slow down?).

A 30-second French-language TV commercial plus two 30-second English-language radio ads will air for about a month starting today.

To find out more, go to the “Ralentir, comment le dire?”microsite (in French only).

Source: SAAQ

 

The Mercedes AMG Formula 1 team Monday announced that Bob Bell is to leave his position as Technical Director.

The team has indicated that Bob Bell resigned his position in December 2013 and will leave the team at the end of November 2014, with the intention of pursuing new challenges outside the company.

The former technical director of Renault has held a similar position at Mercedes AMG since April 2011.

The German team says it is moving forward; it will streamline its technical organisation and Executive Director (Technical) Paddy Lowe will assume the responsibilities previously held by Bell.

The role of Technical Director will not be replaced.

This week at the 2014 New York Auto Show, Volkswagen will host the world premiere of the all-new 2015 Jetta and Golf SportWagen (Wagon) concept.

2015 Volkswagen Jetta
The popular sedan features restyled front and rear ends with improved aerodynamic properties and new bi-xenon headlights accented by LED daytime running lights.

Inside, you'll find piano black trim pieces on the centre stack and around the shifter, as well as new seat colours and designs.

Available safety features include a blind spot monitoring system, rear cross traffic alert, and frontal collision warning.

Set to go on sale in the U.S. during the third quarter of this year, the 2015 Volkswagen Jetta will offer three gasoline engines (2.0L, 1.8L turbo, and 2.0L turbo), a clean diesel engine (2.0L TDI), and a turbo hybrid system.

Photo: Volkswagen

2015 Volkswagen Golf Wagon
The Golf SportWagen concept to be shown at the New York Auto Show is equipped with a clean diesel TDI engine and all-wheel drive. It's larger and roomier, yet more fuel-efficient, than the outgoing model. U.S. dealers will begin sales early next year.

The new Golf Wagon will offer a choice of two engines including a 170-horsepower, 1.8L gasoline unit and a 2.0L clean diesel TDI engine that produces 150 horsepower, or 10 more than its predecessor.

The exact on-sale dates for Canada have yet to be announced.

Photo: Volkswagen

Now that Gene Haas gotten permission to go ahead with his Formula 1 team the first tough decision is when will it race.

The American machine tool magnate said “2015 is too soon and 2016 will be too late,” at a press conference held Monday in Concord, NC.

The team will be based in a campus in Kannapolis nearby his Stewart Haas Racing NASCAR team he said "it's not going to be a European organization."

Although his personal wealth has been reported in the $750 million dollar range he promised to field a team and not just "throw money at it.”

Gene Haas (Photo: NASCAR)

"I've been in Formula 1. I've seen the waste” added team principal, Gunther Steiner, who had been the technical director at Jaguar and Red Bull previously.

One thing Haas won't have to worry about is a wind tunnel as he already owns one in Charlotte, Windshear. But it's a full-sized one and he said that he'll have to modify it for scale models as required by the FIA.

Haas has to overcome scepticism about a Formula 1-based team like no other. Especially in light of the epic failure of the USF1 team announced about five years ago in Charlotte.

Haas said USF1's failure "cast a long shadow... I'm here to prove we can do it. I wouldn't be doing it if I thought I would fail."

“I have a wind tunnel at my disposal, he added “where they failed I can figure out how not to fail. The biggest reason if I didn't do it I'd feel worse.

"I'm sure most people are betting we do fail.”

To help the Jetta level the playing field in terms of crash safety and fuel economy with Japanese rivals like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3, VW has made substantial tweaks to the compact for model year 2015.

Chevrolet is refreshing the compact Cruze, General Motors' top-selling car in the United States, and adding enhanced connectivity features for 2015. It will be introduced this week at the New York auto show.

The auto industry is always full of head-to-head rivalries, and right now the battle between Honda and Nissan is one of the hottest.

The golden shine from the Mustang's spectacular launch in 1964 has long since faded.

Federal regulators looking into GM's Chevrolet Cobalt noticed a surprising statistic: warranty claims over the car's air bags were four times higher than for competing vehicles.

From press release

Earlier this year Nandan said Portugal would be the first opportunity to properly benchmark the i20's performance, after the specialized challenges of the rounds in Monte Carlo, Sweden and Mexico.

“The verdict is that we are a bit closer than what was expected,” Nandan told wrc.com. “If we look at times when there were no problems on the car and you compare the same tyre choices, then let's say it's between 0.1 and 0.4 seconds per kilometre. Which is quite encouraging.

Michel Nandan is happy with the performances of his car (Photo: WRC.com)

“We know we have still a lot of work to do on the development of the car, on the chassis as well on the engine, but okay, I think it's quite promising. From what we can see, we are not really far away from VW or Citroen. And sometimes, in the more muddy conditions especially, it was possible to fight them.”

However Nandan ruled out any immediate ambition to challenge for rally wins.

“I think the progress is going quite well and, of course, we can be happy with the results so far, but no, it will not change our target to progress and improve the car. In Portugal we had some problems as well, but we are here to have problems and then to try and solve them. For now we will not focus on different things.”

Pros
The design of the Cadillac SRX is edgy and gets your attention. Underneath the skin is a world-class vehicle. As a cCrossover Utility Vehicle the SRX is plush, comfortable, and fun to drive. Electronic
connectivity is easy and complete.

Cons
The edgy design may be bold, but it is a “love it or hate it” situation. The interior suffers the same fate; you either love it or don't. In addition, fuel economy isn't quite as good as is expected for a vehicle of this class.

Photo: Cadillac

Pricing
The 2014 Cadillac SRX can be ordered in four different trim levels: Base, Luxury, Performance, or Premium. The Base model can be ordered in either front-wheel drive (which carries a sticker price of $40,285) or AllWheel Drive (at $50,085). On each, optional equipment can move the purchase price considerably higher.

Fuel Economy
Transport Canada's EnerGuide rating for the front-wheel drive SRX is 12./8.3/10.7 while the AWD version is rated at 13.2/8.8/11.2 (city/highway/combined in L/100km)

Improvements and Changes
2014 sees the Cadillac SRX improve with a few minor changes with Intellibeam headlights included in the Driver Awareness Package. Eighteen-inch chrome wheels were added as a late introduction on the Luxury collection. Graphite Metal, Terra Mocha Metallic, and Sapphire Blue Metallic are the new colours that will grace the flanks of the SRX, while the new interior colour Caramel with Ebony accents will perk up the inside. Of note is noise cancellation that significantly lowers the interior noise level due to external sources.

Powertrain
Power comes from a DOHC, 32-valve, 3.6L V6 with continuously variable valve timing that produces 308 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic gets the power to the wheels. When ordered with AWD, a single gear ratio transfer case takes the power to the rear wheels unitl all four are needed.

Safety
Dual front, side-mounted side impact, and full-length side curtain airbags are standard. Traction control, stability control, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and Brake Assist are standard. Radar-based, distance control cruise control is standard. The LATCH system to anchor child seats is standard. Forward collision alert, lane departure warning, rear vision with dynamic guidelines, and Safety Alert seat are optional. Side blind zone alert and cross traffic alert are available on select models. The SRX is designed to meet European pedestrian impact standards. OnStar™, a provider of connected safety, is standard for one year, then available for a yearly fee depending on the level of service desired.

Comparables
The Audi Q5, Acura RDX, Infiniti QX 50, BMW X3, Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz GLK, and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.

From press release

This weekend, Canadian driver Kuno Wittmer contested the third round of the 2014 Tudor United SportsCar series, at the Long Beach street circuit.

Teamed up with Californian Jonathan Bomarito, Kuno begrudgingly recorded his first DNF of the season when his number 93 SRT Viper GTS-R suffered transmission problems 20 minutes before the end. 

"We knew that the Viper GTS-R was at a disadvantage on this temporary street circuit. We were simply hoping to score enough points to remain in the hunt for the championship title after our excellent performances at the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring," indicated Kuno Witmer.

Kuno Wittmer, Viper GTS-R (Photo: Richard Prince/SRT Motorsports)

"Unfortunately, during the free practice, we started experiencing a power steering problem. The SRT Motorsports team attempted to remedy the situation but the problem reoccurred in qualifying, as well as during the race," added Kuno, who took the start and drove the first 60 minutes.

Thanks to a pit stop strategy slightly different than his rivals, Kuno, who started in tenth in GTLM class, was in sixth place when he handed the wheel over to teammate Jonathan Bomarito. It was 20 minutes from the end of the race when mechanical problems ended Bomarito's drive.

The second Viper GTS-R (No.91) entered by the SRT Motorsports team finished the race in seventh spot... California's Laguna Seca race will take place on May 4th.

Pros
German engineering, diverse range of models, and engines including an AMG version.

Cons
Mercedes-Benz has its own way of doing things that is often not the same as most other manufacturers, and getting used to these systems prejudices potential buyers against the GL-Class.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Price
Base MSRP prices:

• GL 350 BlueTEC (diesel) 4MATIC; $74,900
• GL 450 4MATIC; $77,100
• GL 550 4MATIC; $99,100
• GL 63 AMG 4MATIC; $126,400

Fuel Economy (city/highway L/100 km)

• GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC; 11.9/8.6
• GL 450 4MATIC; 15.4/10.9
• GL 550 4MATIC; 15.7/11.2
• GL 63 AMG; 15.9/11.4

Improvements and Changes
After a full redesign in 2103, the 2104 Mercedes-Benz undergoes minor changes for 2014. Climate comfort seats have been added. Second row EASY-ENTRY system is now power operated. Heated rear seats are now standard on the GL 550 4MATIC. Climate controlled cup holders are optional on all models. Splitview is optional on all models. COMMAND now has Online functionality and MB apps.

Exterior styling
Boxy, purposeful, and staid are words that come to mind when looking at the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL's edgy design. Chrome accents highlight the grille, lower side mouldings, door handles and window trim, which all add a touch of elegance.

Inside
Bucket seats up front fit a broad range of backsides, while the second and third row seats are nearly as comfortable as the front and the movies on the 8” headrest mounted video screens (optional) tends to be more entertaining than watching traffic go by. The optional Splitview up front is not a split screen; it is actually two different views of different bits of available information. The driver, for example, can see a full-view map while the passenger scrolls through satellite radio channels on a full screen. A Bang & Olufsen stereo with 1,200 watts and 14 speakers is available.

Cargo/towing/ payload capacity
All GLs are rated for a towing capacity of 3,402 kg (7,500 lb), except the 63 AMG which is rated at 3,175 kg (7,000 lb). Storage volume behind the 3rd row seats is 295 litres, and with all seats folded down it is 2,300 litres.

Powertrain
GL 350 BlueTEC 4Matic utilizes a 24-valve, DOHC, turbo diesel that produces 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque.

GL 450 4MATIC and 550 4MATIC utilize a 32-valve, DOHC, 4.6L biturbo V8 that produces 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque in the GL 450 that gets pumped up to 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque in the GL 550.
The 63 AMG utilizes a 5.4L, DOHC, 32-valve, biturbo V8 elevated to 550 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

All GL-Class models use a 7-speed automatic with permanent AWD and a manual mode for shifting.

Safety
Dual front, front side impact, full-length side curtain, and a driver's side knee airbag are all standard. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, traction control, stability control, roll over mitigation, and brake force distribution are standard. Three-point lap belts, child-proof rear door locks, pinch protection on power windows, and the LATCH system to anchor child seats are standard. Blind spot and lane departure assists are standard. Night view assist is optional.

Comparables
Infiniti QX 80, Cadillac Escalade, Land Rover Range Rover, BMW X 5, Lexus LX, Lincoln Navigator.

Red Bull Racing's Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed he will not there to see his team trying to overturn the stewards' decision to exclude him from the Australian Grand Prix.

The 24-year-old finished second on the track in Melbourne a month ago, but was disqualified after the race over fuel flow issues.

Red Bull appealed the decision, and the hearing is tomorrow, in Paris. Meanwhile, Ricciardo will be getting ready for next week's Chinese Grand Prix, in Shanghai.

Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull RB10 (Photo: WRi2)

“I'll obviously wait to hear the result from the team, I'm sure they'll give me a call,” Ricciardo told Crash.net.

“There's nothing that I can do, there's nothing that I can really worry about. As far as I'm concerned let's say the damage was done on Sunday night in Melbourne. I'm not going to be any more upset than I was then.

“Obviously I would love to get them back; I would be pleased but in a way I've sort of dealt with it now and whatever happens, happens.”

Pros: The Lexus CT 200h combines the attributes of a sporty 5-door hatch and a fuel-efficient, atmospherically responsible Lexus hybrid into a flexible, high-utility package. With a freshened premium presence, street-smart looks, and the sensible luxury that comes along with Lexus ownership, the CT 200h should connect readily with a shopper after performance and luxury that's easy on the wallet and easy on the environment.

Cons: The CT 200h is available only in a single 4-cylinder, front-drive, CVT-equipped powertrain configuration, so shoppers after AWD, more power or the ability to row their own gears will need to look elsewhere.

Photo: Lexus

2014 Lexus CT 200h Pricing: Pricing for the recently refreshed 2014 Lexus CT 200h represents improved value through revised feature packaging and lower MSRPs across the lineup. The CT 200h with Touring Package opens the model range at $34,150, while the Premium Package, which adds a premium stereo, backup camera, and plenty more starts from $37,750. A Technology Package adds leather memory seating, rain-sensing wipers, navigation, and more from $39,350. Enthusiast shoppers can also check out the sport-enhanced CT 200h F SPORT, complete with unique styling, chassis, and feature upgrades from $38,400.

2014 Lexus CT 200h Fuel Economy: Lexus CT 200h shoppers get a total system output of 134 horsepower alongside Tier 2 Bin 3 emissions, and a combined mileage figure of just 4.6L/100km.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the CT 200h boasts a fresh, more sculpted new body that incorporates Lexus' new spindle grille treatment, as well as new wheels, features, colours, and a revised interior with added refinement.

Don't Miss: the road-trip readiness. The 2014 Lexus CT 200h packs over 400 litres of cargo space behind its rear seats, while giving four grown-ups ample room onboard. A 45-litre fuel tank means plenty of highway cruising range, and features like automatic climate control, premium audio, and a sunroof dial up comfort along the way.

2014 Lexus CT 200h Powertrain: Utilizing an all-aluminum 1.8L 4-cylinder gas engine with numerous fuel-saving technologies lays the foundation for great mileage while the CT's high-output electric drive system completes the package. The gas and electric systems can combine their efforts or take turns powering the CT, depending on the type of driving at hand. A drive-select dial lets drivers customize powertrain response in real time, encouraging fuel efficiency or sportiness on the fly. Eco, Sport, and other modes are available.

Safety: All models feature Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control, and a cutting-edge antilock brake system that ensures fuss-free stops on all surfaces. A backup camera system and Vehicle Proximity Notification System, which makes a sound comparable to a gasoline engine when the CT is in its noiseless electric mode, make the area around the CT even safer, too. Active front head restraints are fitted to reduce whiplash-related injuries should the vehicle be rear-ended.

Comparables: The 2014 Lexus CT 200h is comparable to other sporty, fuel-saving compact hatches, including the Audi A3 TDI and Mazda3 Sport Skyactiv.

Pros: When it comes to efficiency, maneuverability, low running costs and a solid reputation for reliable hybrid-car ownership, the Toyota Prius c is a tough choice to beat. A 4.8-meter turning radius helps make this model ideal for a city dweller after a nimble and flexible compact boasting premium features and a not-so-big pricetag. Prius c is one of the latest new models in the award-winning Prius lineup.

Cons: Prius c's small size and limited output may scratch it off of the lists of some shoppers right off the bat. No manual transmission is available to help fans of shifting their own gears save money on the purchase price. Further, some must-have options, including split-folding seats and variable intermittent wipers aren't standard.

Photo: Toyota

2014 Toyota Prius c Pricing: Pricing starts from $20,440 with standard Bluetooth, power accessories, automatic climate control and USB audio input. An upgrade package is available, adding premium seats, a leather-covered dash, upgraded audio, cruise control, split-folding rear seats and more. With the Technology Package, Prius c will relieve shoppers of $23,145 in exchange for a Display Audio system with Navigation, 15-inch wheels, push-button start, keyless entry, satellite radio and more. From that basis, shoppers can devise the ultimate Prius c by adding the Premium package, which fits premium SofTex material over the seats and steering wheel, seat heaters, a power moonroof, fog lamps and more.

2014 Toyota Prius c Fuel Economy: With 99 hybrid horsepower on tap, Prius c sips its way along—using as little as 3.6L/100km and drastically reducing harmful emissions in the process.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the recently-launched Prius c carries over unchanged.

Don't Miss: the drive modes. At the touch of a button, drivers can activate ‘ECO' mode, which recalibrates climate controls and throttle response to help maximize fuel efficiency. Further, an ‘EV' mode allows for all-electric driving for up to one kilometer if speeds stay below 40 km/h. The drive modes are employed to help drivers extract the most benefit from the Prius c's Hybrid Synergy Drive powerplant.

2014 Toyota Prius c Powertrain: Toyota engineers revisited the award-winning Hybrid Synergy Drive system for its use in the compact Prius c, redesigning and down-scaling key components to be smaller and lighter for improved efficiency. Heavy powertrain components, like the engine, transaxle and power control unit, are strategically placed within the Prius c to optimize weight balance. At the heart of the system is a 1.5 litre Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine teamed with a smooth, fuel-saving CVT transmission.

Safety: Like all Toyota models, the Prius c includes the STAR safety system as standard equipment, regardless of trim grade. Toyota's STAR safety system includes six active safety technologies: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). The various systems all play a role in maintaining driver control, helping to avoid altogether. Should one prove inevitable, advanced airbags and a crash-optimized body structure provide protection, as does instantaneous shut-down of high-voltage hybrid system components.

Comparables: Though Prius c has no direct competitors, it's ideally cross-shopped with other city-friendly, high-efficiency compacts like the Fiat 500, Smart fortwo, Mini Cooper and Scion iQ.

Pros
Canada's No. 1 selling Crossover Utility Vehicle has been chosen as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Dodge Journey is available in six different trim levels, and in front- or all-wheel drive.

Cons
Overall styling is distinctive, but the family resemblance to the Caravan minivan is not necessarily a good thing.

Photo: Dodge

Price
The Dodge Journey starts at $21,495 for the base CVP (Canada Value Package) model and carries on through SE plus, SXT, Limited, and R/T to $33,395 for a basic R/T Rallye with AWD. At every trim level there are a series of options available at extra cost.

Fuel Economy (city/highway in L/100 km)
2.4L 4-cyl; 11.2/7.7

3.6L V6 FWD; 12.6/7.9, AWD; 12.8/8.2

Improvements and Changes
For 2014 the new Limited package slides right in the middle of the six packages offered. Dodge says it replaces the Crew model from previous years. Other than that, the 2014 Dodge Journey is unchanged for this year.

Exterior Styling
The front end has the Dodge family resemblance, but once you get to the side views, the Journey is quite distinctive with its squared off sides and slightly rounded edges. The Journey uses 17” and 19” rims which emphasizes the “ruggedness” of the vehicle by leaving extra space in the wheel wells.

Inside
Uconnect™ with its optional 8.4” touchscreen is an impressive bit of technology to use. The large screen is easier to read at a glance, and easier to use than the smaller screens in competitor's vehicles. In addition to the large screen in the dash, the second-row entertainment system screen is a full 9”. Base versions of the Journey use a 4.3” screen for Uconnect™.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Seven passenger V6-powered versions can carry up to 610 kg (1,362 lb), while the five passenger 4-cylinder versions are limited to 538 kg (1,186 lb). Towing capacities, when properly equipped, are 454 kg (1,000 lb) for the 4-cylinder versions and 1,134 kg (2,500 lb) for the V6 versions.

Powertrain
A 4-speed automatic is used in conjunction with the 2.4L 4-cylinder while the 3.6L V6 gets a 6-speed automatic. Power output of the four is 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. The direct-injected, variable valve timing, DOHC V6 pumps the power output up to 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Safety
Driver and front passenger airbags are assisted by front driver and passenger side impact airbags and side curtain airbags that cover all rows, and there's also a driver's knee blocker airbag. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, stability control, traction control, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Roll Mitigation, and trailer sway control are all standard. For the youngest members of the family, the LATCH anchor system for child seats is standard, as well.

Comparables
Shoppers should also consider the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Chevrolet Traverse.

Pros: The Sportage can get off the line in a decent hurry while its supple seats comfort you. And thanks to some very pleasing lines, it looks the part.

Cons: Its design comes with a couple of downsides, namely poor rearward visibility, a cramped back seat, and less than stellar cargo space.

Photo: Kia

2014 Kia Sportage Pricing: The Sportage starts at $22,995 for the LX FWD model with a six-speed manual. Adding an automatic transmission, along with rear parking sonar, brings the price up to $25,195. LX AWD models are $27,495. EX FWD models get 17'' alloys, leather trim pieces, UVO infotainment, a backup camera, and push-button start for $28,295. EX AWD models bring the price up to $30,595.

EX Luxury AWD models add a panoramic sunroof, 18'' alloys, leather seats, and a heated steering wheel for $34,695, while navigation pushes the price up to $36,195. SX AWD models expand on the EX AWD trim by adding a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and 18'' wheels for $32,495, while top-trim SX Luxury AWD models build on the EX Luxury AWD w/ Navigation package with the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, HID headlights, and heated rear seats for $38,295.

2014 Kia Sportage Economy: Equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, the Sportage is rated at 11.4/7.8L (city/highway) per 100 km with the manual transmission and 10.0/7.0L per 100 km with the automatic. All-wheel drive models with the same engine and an automatic transmission are rated at 10.6/7.7L per 100 km. When equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, fuel economy is pegged at 11.2/8.2 per 100 km by Natural Resources Canada.

Improvements and Changes: Other than a slightly higher price, the Sportage has basically not changed for 2014.

2014 Kia Sportage Powertrain: In all trims except SX, the Sportage is equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 182 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. It can be had with either manual (FWD only) or automatic transmissions (FWD and AWD). SX models receive a turbocharged 2.0-litre unit good for 260 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. It is only available with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Safety: The Kia Sportage comes standard with six airbags (front, front seat-mounted side, and side curtain). Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, and Hill Start Assist come standard on all trims as well. A backup sensor and camera are available.

Comparables: The Sportage competes with many small SUVs and crossovers including the Jeep Cherokee, Compass and Patriot, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, MINI Countryman, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Rogue, Subaru XV Crosstrek and Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Tiguan.