Fifth-generation 2019 Toyota Avalon full size-sedan now available
Rather than shy away from selling sedans, Toyota is going all-in and has just released a brand new version of the Avalon.
Mercedes-Benz to launch new A-Class Sedan later this year
Looking to dip your toe into the world of Mercedes-Benz ownership? The new-for-Canada A-Class sedan will be arriving later this year.
All-new 2019 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid to arrive early next year
The SUV enters its third generation for 2019, which includes another S E-Hybrid model with a higher output gasoline engine and electric motor.
Porsche recently announced early next year, a new partially electrified version of its best-selling SUV will be rolling off the assembly line: the 2019 Cayenne S E-hybrid. And the best part? It’s a whole lot more powerful.
The powertrain is composed of a 3.0-litre V6 gasoline engine and a significantly upgraded electric motor together generating a net 462 horsepower — an additional 43 horses compared to before — and 516 lb-ft of torque. That’s good for a 0 to 100 km/h time in a scant 5 seconds, not bad considering the mid-size crossover weighs 2,295 kilograms. As with the rest of the model range, a Tiptronic S eight-speed transmission has been adopted.
Borrowing technology from the 918 Spyder hypercar, the S E-Hybrid can use virtually all of the now larger 14.1 kilowatt-hour onboard battery’s stored energy to provide extra acceleration boost in Sport and Sport Plus modes. Comprised of eight cell modules mounted beneath the floor of the rear cargo area, the battery is fluid-cooled to optimize performance.
Using the standard 3.6-kilowatt charger and a 230-volt, 10-amp connection, a full charge takes approximately eight hours. A 7.2-kilowatt unit is available for use with a 230-volt, 32-amp power source reducing the top-up time to 2.3 hours. Similar to other products in the segment, the process is remotely manageable through the Porsche Connect smartphone app allowing the use to pre-set climate control, turn the car on or off and find nearby charging stations.
Drivers looking to tow recreational equipment or a trailer, this Cayenne has an add-on trailer connection and is rated for loads up to 3.5 tonnes. Like the 911 range, an “active hang-on” all-wheel drive system is employed whereby power is permanently distributed to the rear wheels while the front is variable depending on load and road conditions.
Also optional are Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control roll stabilization, and a couple of firsts for the brand, a head-up display projected to the front windscreen showing pertinent driving information and lightweight 22-inch alloy wheels.
Lexus to usher in new era of ES this fall
The 2019 Lexus ES is bigger, lower and improved in almost every way compared to the outgoing model.
The Lexus ES, short for Executive Sedan, has long been admired for its comfort, elegant looks and luxury. Performance and cutting edge style, however, aren’t usually in the conversation when talking about the vehicle. Lexus aims to change this when the sixth iteration of the model is ushered in during the fall, complete with the addition of, for the first time, an F SPORT variant in the lineup.
Built on an all-new global GA-K platform, the mid-size four door sizes up growing 65 millimetres longer and 45 millimetres wider, while dropping five millimetres in height and gaining a wider track front and rear. The hood is lower and the roofline significantly raked, altogether resulting is a silhouette that is much more vibrant and youthful than the one it replaces.
The front end is characterized by thin, sharply designed headlamps and a choice of two different spindle grilles depending on the trim level. The 350 and 300h hybrid models receive a vertical-slatted unit, the F SPORTs a blacked out mesh grille made up of a repeating pattern of “L” shapes instead. The latter also adds a rear spoiler, lower diffuser, 19-inch wheels and an exclusive Ultra Sonic Blue Mica paint colour.
The cabin of the 2019 ES is purposefully driver focused, the central display, instrument panel and head-up display all placed in a way to promote easy viewing without having to shift attention away from the road. F SPORT interiors feature special “Hadori” metallic trim, influenced by traditional Japanese sword making. The alloy has a wavy, 3-D appearance to it highlighting the premium level of detail applied to the car.
Compared to the outgoing chassis, the GA-K is stiffer and lighter yielding a better feel of the road and a quieter ride as well. An Adaptive Variable Suspension, like the one on the LC coupe, is offered as optional equipment.
“We knew that this ES had to feel responsive and easy to drive, no matter what kind of road it was on and that can only be achieved with a solid foundation,” said chief engineer Yashuhiro Sakakibara.
Two powerplants are available. The ES 350 utilizes a 3.5-litre V6 producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, and the ES 300h takes advantage of a fourth-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system delivering 215 net horsepower and a combined city/highway fuel economy rating of approximately 5.3 L/100 km.
Be on the lookout for the 2019 Lexus ES in dealerships come September.
Hyundai Tucson receives significant refresh for 2019 model year
As part of Hyundai’s mandate to introduce eight new or significantly updated CUVs by 2020, the Tucson is the fifth example to debut following the recently announced Kona range of subcompacts. The popular small crossover receives a fresh face and rear fascia, lighting and numerous cabin upgrades.
“From a design perspective, onlookers will recognize a generational harmony between Hyundai’s new 2019 Santa Fe and the refreshed Tucson,” said Steve Flamand, director of product and corporate strategy at Hyundai Auto Canada.
“The signature elements of the Hyundai cascading grille and modern-day surfacing found in the rear view create shadowy, dramatic impressions and represent the Hyundai DNA.”
The cascading grille in question embodies the brand’s current signature styling featuring a hexagonal shape, outlined in chrome and reaching deep down into the front bumper. The headlights’ edges have been softened, and the tail lamps at the back slimmed and stretched for a more aerodynamic appearance.
Inside the vehicle, the remodelled centre stack layout has a seven-inch central display that is now a freestanding style, moved above the HVAC vents. Tech-saavy rear passengers should be happy to find the addition of USB inputs and wireless charging capability to the second row. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfacing capability is standard.
The small SUV can be ordered housing one of two engine flavours: a 2.0-litre four cylinder producing 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-litre four-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Both motors are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission offering a SHIFTRONIC manual-shifting mode.
Consumers may also bundle in a long list of available safety technologies such as forward collision mitigation, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, radar cruise control and more. Look for the 2019 Hyundai Tucson to arrive in stores soon.
Welcoming the 2019 Genesis G70
Genesis’ first true luxury sport sedan has finally touched down on our side of the pond, joining bigger brothers the G80 and G90. The G70 is offered in no less than six variations, ranging from an Advanced trim featuring the model’s base turbocharged 2.0-litre 252-horsepower engine to the top-of-the-line Sport boasting a 3.3-litre twin-turbo 365 horsepower mill.
Driver-focused
The car was first announced last fall and now as the delivery date draws near, additional information has been made available. Genesis says the G70 will deliver “confidence-inspiring agility” thanks to multi-link independent suspension set up to balance comfort and handling. The hood and other components are also crafted out of aluminum to cut the weight down (1,673 kilograms for Canadian spec) and increase nimbleness.
Stepping into the cabin, occupants will notice a deep seating position designed to keep a low centre of gravity. An optional mechanical limited-slip differential distributes torque to the appropriate wheel when built-in sensors detect a loss of traction. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission with launch control are standard, and customers of the 2.0Ts can opt for a slick six-speed manual gearbox and rear rear-wheel drive.
Tailored performance
Once on the road, drivers have at their disposal control over various vehicle dynamics to suit various moods and/or whatever environment they may be facing. Powertrain response, steering feel, engine sound, front/rear bias, and even suspension dampening and automatic side bolster adjustment (3.3T Sport only) are all customizable.
The higher grades benefit from additional performance and cosmetic upgrades such as large 350-millimetre vented brake rotors and Brembo calipers, 19-inch alloy wheels and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires.
Like the other products in the lineup, the Genesis G70 may be ordered through the brand’s online purchase platform and home delivered via the Genesis at Home concierge service.
Range Rover introduces world's first full-size SUV coupe
Move over Evoque Convertible, you’ve got some competition in the two-door Range Rover segment: introducing the Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations-designed SV Coupe.
This limited edition model is not only the world’s first full-size SUV coupe, but also the fastest full-size Range Rover produced to date with a 0 to 100 km/h speed of 5.3 seconds and a 265 km/h top speed.
“The Range Rover SV Coupe is a celebration of the Range Rover bloodline,” said Land Rover chief design officer Gerry McGovern.
“With a dramatic two-door silhouette, this breath-taking four-seat coupe alludes to its unique heritage while being thoroughly modern and contemporary. Beautifully realized and superbly engineered, the Range Rover SV Coupe delivers the most distinguished, luxurious and exclusive Range Rover ever built.”
Boasting the same beautiful design features as its stablemates like blacked-out pillars creating the appearance of a floating roof and a rear-tapered upper profile, the coupe adds a few personal touches as well including frameless door glass, the introduction of a 23-inch alloy wheel option and an exclusive liquid metal Liquesence paint finish.
Inside, semi-aniline leather front seats finished in a gradated diamond quilt pattern are unique to the SV Coupe. Consumers can select from a range of bespoke cabin colour schemes in either a traditional single tone style or front-to-rear contrast. In addition, there are three wood veneer choices including a new Nautica veneer comprised of a fusion of walnut and sycamore.
Those seeking some performance to go with their luxury need look no further — under the hood is a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine delivering a 557 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Although the suspension is more sport focused than other Range Rovers, lower by 8 millimetres, the SUV still comes with the Terrain Response 2 traction system providing grip in virtually all driving conditions, is capable of wading water up to 900-millimetres deep and can tow a maximum 7,716 pounds.
Hand assembled at the SVO Technical Centre in Warwickshire, UK, the Range Rover SV Coupe is limited to 999 units worldwide and starts at $335,000. Deliveries are anticipated towards the end of 2018.
Redesigned 2018 Honda Odyssey: comfort, convenience and a little magic
This month, the 2018 Honda Odyssey rolls into dealerships completely redesigned with a more powerful engine, nine and 10-speed transmissions and several interior innovations.
The front of the best-selling minivan receives an all-new face resembling the rest of the current Honda lineup featuring the chrome “flying wing” grille and sporty mesh elements in the bumper air intakes. Instead of the visually jarring sliding door tracks dominating the rear fender, they have been incorporated and effectively hidden in the bottom of the rear quarter panel windows. The C-shaped taillights now wrap around the chrome garnish located on the power tailgate.
Comfort and convenience are two areas the automaker has focused heavily on. The infotainment system, controlled by an eight-inch high-resolution Display Audio touchscreen, has built-in Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to make smartphone connectivity a breeze. The monitor is also paired to a camera mounted in the interior so drivers can see what passengers are up to. Front and rear occupants can even communicate with each other over the CabinTalk PA system.
People riding along in the back will likely be too busy to talk, however, thanks to the entertainment setup. A 10.2-inch screen is mounted on the ceiling that users can stream content to via a downloadable app for mobile devices. In-vehicle 4G LTE WiFi is optional.
The second row seating is where the magic really happens. Dubbed Magic Slide, they can be configured in multiple positions. These include Easy Access mode that slides the centre seat forward and out of the way, Super mode moving the driver’s side seat forward, and Wide mode removing the centre seat and pushing the flanking pair outwards, all in the name of making passenger transitions and cargo carrying a painless process.
The 3.5-litre V6 engine produces 280 horsepower, 32 more than the outgoing model, and is paired to a nine-speed gearbox for all trims except Touring. The top-of-the-line grade receives an ultra-efficient 10-speed transmission helping the vehicle achieve an estimated fuel economy rating of 12.6 L/100 km in the city and 8.5 L/100 km on the highway.
All Odysseys come standard with The Honda Sensing safety suite encompassing collision mitigation and driver assistance technology like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control and more.
Prices range from $34,890 for LX to $50,290 for Touring. Visit your local store for a test drive.
Honda Civic Si now with more turbo
The new generation of the sporty Si is now available, and for the first time, features a turbocharged engine.