Five ways to get your vehicle ready for winter
Here are some tips on how drivers can prepare themselves and their vehicles for the upcoming season.
Seventh-gen BMW 3 Series reinvents itself once again
From road presence to performance, the 2019 model year 3 Series ups the ante once more.
Why buy OpenRoad manufacturer certified vehicles
Some of the benefits of purchasing a manufacturer certified pre-owned vehicle at OpenRoad. Photos by Benjamin Yong.
Did you know not all used cars are created equal? Particularly those that are part of manufacturer certified pre-owned (CPO) programs, available at many OpenRoad Auto Group dealerships.
German luxury brand Audi, for example, calls its version Certified :plus. Before any model on the lot qualifies for the label, it is comprehensively examined, and has imperfections addressed, so the product in question — which cannot be older than six years — is brought back to as close to new condition as possible.
Certified :plus basically means a vehicle has reached certain criteria so that the automaker is willing to back it up with a warranty, like receiving a 300 point inspection (114 exterior checks, 98 interior, 38 engine, 39 undercarriage and 17 road-test),” said OpenRoad Audi Boundary general manager Brad Beckett.
“In addition, certain reconditioning standards have to be met meaning stuff like brakes and tires tires need to have more than 50 cent life remaining, and there can’t be any scratch ding or dent on the body that’s longer than I think it is four centimetres or an inch-and-a-half. So they really put a premium on making sure that the car has been brought up to as close to showroom condition as possible.”
The CPO limited warranty Beckett alluded to kicks in after the original four-year/80,000 kilometre coverage expires, good for an additional two years or 160,000 kilometres, not exceeding past six years from the vehicle’s original in-service date. The warranty will be honoured at any dealer across Canada, and emergency repairs can be performed at a non-Audi service facility.
Other perks include special financing exclusive to the program, with either monthly or bi-weekly payment schedules available similar to leasing, a CarProof history report, seven-day or 500-kilometre exchange privilege, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
“Audi will provide us with financing rates on all different CPOs at all different terms, anywhere from 24 months up to 72 months usually. As the term increases so does the rate, but I think our highest right now on any car is something like 3.9 per cent, our lowest rate being 0.9 so it’s a really advantageous way of purchasing a vehicle,” says Beckett.
You can search through OpenRoad’s extensive CPO inventory online.
Happy 70th birthday, Land Rover
Happy birthday, Land Rover! The iconic British automaker turned 70 years young last month, initially debuting back in 1948 at the Amsterdam Motor Show with one self-titled product, meant as a stopgap solution for a country still healing from war. Fast forward to present day and countless global sales later, lets take a moment to celebrate one of the most recognizable and loved 4×4 marques.
“Land Rover was born with the launch of a single vehicle. Today our family of SUVs is testament to the pioneering spirit of innovation that has characterised Land Rover for seven decades. Our family of Defender, Discovery and Range Rover models provides unrivalled capability, versatility and luxury, giving us the perfect foundation for another 70 years of success,” said Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth.
Here’s a brief timeline of the earlier days. The utilitarian Series I came first, followed by a long wheelbase version in 1953. In 1970, the two-door Range Rover Classic was unveiled, the first automobile featuring permanent four-wheel drive. The one millionth Land Rover rolled onto the factory floor in 1976. Land Rover’s third unique offering, the Discovery, was released in 1989, and a fourth, the Freelander, in 1997.
This brings us to the 2000s. The beginning of the new millennium saw the refinement of existing models, with the Range Rover and Discovery both entering third generations. In recent times the company has experimented with integrating lightweight materials and cutting edge technology into production, as well as establishing the Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division focused on increasing performance and the level of bespoke luxury.
Since 2010, in keeping with the pulse of the industry, Land Rover has turned its attention to more compact form factors, creating the compact Evoque, then the Discovery Sport and just last year, the smooth-looking Velar wearing the brand’s latest “reductionism” design language.
“Land Rover is so much more than just the most capable all-terrain vehicles. It connects people through a passion for adventure and making more of our world. From our employees to customers and enthusiasts, this is the family that makes Land Rover special,” says Speth.
View the entire lineup of new 2018 SUVs here.
MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept returns brand to motorsports roots
If you go far back enough through MINI’s timeline, you will discover a past steeped in racing. The BMW Group is trying to rekindle that competitive flame with the John Cooper Works GP Concept design study, a model bred for the track.
“The MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept is all about the unfettered feeling of driving and levels of performance found in motor sport competition,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, member of the BMW AG board of management also responsible for Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad. “This is driving fun in its purest form.”
Called the “maximum MINI” because of its exaggerated proportions, the model is a larger than life version of the standard variant. For example, the GP possesses a much wider stance thanks to flared fenders, aggressive front and rear lower bumper aprons, deep side skirts and a massive hatch spoiler. Much of the body aero is constructed out of carbon fibre to keep the weight low and the fun factor high.
Designers have created a new take on the signature black and red paint scheme of JCW — the body is dipped in Black Jack Anthracite, which depending on the light changes shades slightly, and the accenting trim is finished in a more vibrant Curbside Red Metallic. The number 0059 stamped into the quarter panel is a reference to the 1959, the year the brand was born.
Peer inside the racy vehicle and you’ll notice the cabin is just as serious as the exterior. A roll cage provides reinforcement, surrounding only a pair of bucket seats with five-point safety belts. The instrument cluster is all digital, and is paired with a Head-Up Display feeding the driver important information directly into his or her line of sight so concentration remains on the road whipping by.
While sparse, the interior has still been given a dash of style using smooth leather on the headrests bolsters, a third Highspeed Orange highlight colour on the belt straps and steering wheel stitching, and an interesting 3-D knitting technique used to create the textured central section of the seating.
Tune up: easy auto maintenance for spring
For those fortunate enough to live in the warmer regions of Canada, cherry blossoms are already starting to sprout from once-barren tree branches: a sure sign that spring is nearly upon us. To officially welcome the sunnier months ahead, why not give your vehicle a proper spring tune up? Follow this checklist to get your ride running and looking in tip-top shape.
Oil change
After a long season of driving, full of temperature fluctuations, your engine oil has been through a lot and is overdue for a change. If you swapped to thinner viscosity oil for easier cold starts, switch back to whatever the factory recommends for spring/summer. Swing by your dealership and pick up an OEM oil filter for best results, or, if you’d rather let the pros handle it, book an appointment with the service department.
Replace your wipers
Dirty, rain-splattered windshields in the winter mean your wipers have likely been working overtime. The icy mornings can also wreak havoc on the rubber blades making them less effective — you’ll know it when they make that loud, squeaky noise as they streak their way across the glass. It’s an inexpensive and easy item to replace yourself, and while you’re at it, pop the hood and top off the windshield washer fluid.
Inspect brakes and suspension
Constantly slowing down the car in inclement weather can quickly wear down your brake pads and rotors. If it’s been awhile since you’ve had a mechanic look at your braking system, or if you notice any odd sounds or feeling when you step on the pedal, now would be a great time to have it inspected. The same goes for the suspension and alignment that may have been knocked slightly out of whack from driving over all those potholes.
Battery check
Another vital part that can experience a lot of stress during sub-zero conditions is the battery. The chemical reactions that place inside to generate electricity slow down at lower temps, and there is more strain placed on it when starting in a cold environment. Did you know most automotive batteries last between approximately three to five years? Most shops should have the equipment to test the voltage and overall health.
Wash and wax
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t detail your car too often in the winter, if at all. Four-plus months of grime and salt build-up isn’t a pretty sight, so break out the soap, bucket and sponge and give the paint a good once (or twice) over. After the wash, apply a nice coating of automotive wax to seal in the shine and protect the finish. Don’t forget about the interior, either. Dispose of those empty bottles and gum wrappers, vacuum the carpets and wipe down the steering wheel and dash with a damp towel.
AJAC finalists for Canadian Car/Utility Vehicle of the Year announced
This year, the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) chose the Montreal International Auto Show to announce its finalists for the Canadian Car of the Year program. The vehicles chosen, below, were among many 2018 models across multiple segments that have been thoroughly tested by nearly 100 journalists — scored on factors like performance, technology, fuel economy and much more — over the last several months. Here is more on some of the notable category winners.
Best City Car in Canada for 2018: Volkswagen e-Golf
It’s easy to see why the electric version of the legendary Golf was bestowed with this honour — a massive 35.8-kilowatt-hour battery gives the zero-emissions hatchback a 200-kilometre range, and the motor outputs 134 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of near-instant torque for guaranteed fun, fuel-free driving.
Best Small Car in Canada for 2018: Mazda3
The current-generation Mazda3, featuring the head-turning KODO design and efficient SKYACTIV engineering, has garnered no shortage of accolades, and now chalks up one more on the list. The agile car returns with a truly class-leading looking and feeling interior, full suite of i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies and an affordable starting price tag of $15,900.
Best Large Car in Canada for 2018: Honda Accord
What a year for the ’18 Accord, already having been named the North American Car of the Year and now the Best Large Car in Canada. Rebuilt from the ground up, the sedan is lighter and more rigid than before, touts a more streamlined body shape, runs on a one of two turbocharged VTEC engines and introduces a 10-speed automatic transmission, which is a world’s first for a front-wheel drive vehicle.
Best Premium Sports-Performance Car in Canada for 2018: Jaguar F-TYPE
Anyone who has laid eyes on the beautiful Jaguar F-TYPE can tell the sports car is award winning without even having to do any research. To be specific, the coupe/roadster, available in both supercharged V6 and V8 form, has netted 160 awards worldwide since the original 2012 launch, according to the company. Small improvements have been made for the latest edition such as a new Touch Pro fast response infotainment system, full-LED headlights, refreshed front bumper and lightweight “slimline” seating.
Best Small Premium Utility Vehicle in Canada for 2018: Range Rover Velar
The forth member to join the Range Rover family, the Velar brings a level of elegance and minimalism never quite seen before from the brand (just look at those flush-deployable door handles). From a capability standpoint, however, it’s business as usual. The mid-size SUV boasts a 558-litre luggage compartment, Terrain Response 2 traction aids, Advanced Tow Assist functionality and a choice between a 180-horsepower diesel and 380 horsepower gasoline engine.
BMW Concept Z4 goes back to bare essentials
At this year’s Concours d’Elegance at Pebble Beach, one of the most extravagant automotive shows in the world, BMW presented its take on a brand new roadster. Called the Concept Z4, the open-top two-seater hints at what a production model will look like when unveiled next year.
Since being introduced 15 years ago, the Z4 became a little bit heavier and more comfortable over two generations. The manufacturer has promised a return to sportier beginnings for the next iteration.
“The BMW Concept Z4 in an all-out driving machine,” said Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President of BMW Group Design. “Stripping the car back to the bare essentials allows the driver to experience all the ingredients of motoring pleasure with supreme directness. This is total freedom on four wheels.”
A long wheelbase, low-to-the-ground stance, stubby rear-end and other traditional styling points have been kept. A shorter hood than previous models allows the driver to sit closer to the centre of the vehicle for better balance and feel. The built-in rollover hoops have been integrated into “domes” that slope towards the back provide a retro aesthetic.
Enthusiasts will notice a handful of elements borrowed, but reinterpreted, from other cars introduced into the design, like the front bumper air intakes as well as the air breathers behind the front wheels. Headlight and kidney grille placement has been influenced by the former Z8. BMW’s love of carbon fibre has translated into crafting parts of the front end, the rear diffuser and other trim pieces with the lightweight composite material.
Keeping in line with the driver-focused mentality, the minimalistic cockpit wraps around the occupant behind the wheel. Two high definition screens flow into one another to make up the instrument cluster and infotainment displays, which show vital vehicle information, navigation and more. The entire dashboard is finished in black to avoid creating distraction.
Comparing three electric vehicle incentives in three countries
Considering an estimated one million battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids will be sold globally this year alone, it seems likely that they’re here to stay. Manufacturers are pouring resources into further development of the segment — Honda snuck in the Clarity plug-in before the New Year, and in 2018 there are several anticipated launches like the Jaguar I-PACE crossover and BMW X7 full-size SUV.
Governments around the world, facing pressure to lower emissions, have been onboard the electric bandwagon for quite a while now, some going as far as putting an expiry date on sales of gasoline-powered cars. As such, many, like the three places we’ve listed below, are serving up enticing incentives in the form of cash rebates to tempt consumers to switch over.
Canada
Turns out the Great White North is not a bad place to be for EV lovers. In B.C., the Clean Energy Vehicle Program means buyers can benefit from up to $5,000 off eligible models, which include favourites like the BMW i3, Hyundai IONIQ and Volkswagen e-Golf. In Quebec, it’s as much as $8,000 off a green set of wheels, and even people buying and installing home charging stations get a 50 per cent off break, to a maximum of $600. Those residing in Ontario receive a whopping total $14,000 discount on approved automobiles via the Electric Vehicle Incentive Program.
United States
In the U.S. both federal and state governments offer financial assistance to lessen the blow of buying an EV that, particularly at full MSRP, can be quite prohibitive. The Internal Revenue Service provides a tax credit between $2,500 and $7,500 to lower the upfront purchase cost, the exact amount dependant on vehicle class and battery size. On top of that, certain states stack additional credits on top as well.
United Kingdom
Through the plug-in car grant initiative introduced in 2011, our relatives in Europe can see 35 per cent of their EV price tag slashed, up to a £4,500 maximum, on the spot when purchasing an eligible auto. Similar to Quebec, a further grant of £500 was introduced in March for EV owners who install a dedicated charge point in the garage.
OpenRoad Toyota Richmond to build new 205,000 square-foot facility
The new site of OpenRoad Toyota Richmond is across the street from its current location in the Richmond Auto Mall. Photos by Benjamin Yong.
Once completed, the new largest Toyota dealership in Canada is going to be located in the Lower Mainland — right here in the Richmond Auto Mall.
OpenRoad Auto Group president and CEO Christian Chia was joined by Cyril Dimitris, VP of Toyota Canada sales and marketing as well as Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie during the ground-breaking ceremony Thursday afternoon. The rainclouds seemingly parted right over the site of the future store, the centerpiece a shiny vintage 2000GT on display from Chia’s personal collection. The sports car echoed the theme of the afternoon: history.
“Some of you may not recognize this car, but we’ve come a long way since that red car, a Toyota 2000GT, rolled of the assembly line 50 years ago exactly. Things have changed a lot. What has not changed is Toyota’s commitment to quality, to sustainability and of course to reliability,” said Chia.
He drew parallels to OpenRoad’s own long-term commitment to excellence, starting with its first Toyota dealership in Richmond, a modest showroom on Granville Avenue opening in 1978. In 1985, the facility moved to the now familiar location at the auto mall. The forthcoming expansion project will be 205,000 square-feet, or five times bigger than currently.
Customers should expect amenities like two lounges, a full service café with TVs, a children’s play area, a fireplace and free Wi-Fi. Up to 36 vehicles can be displayed at once on two levels, and the service centre is set to house 30 full mechanical bays.
At a time when businesses in other retail sectors are shuttering their brick and mortars, Dimitris said the automaker has an opposing view.
“We think that the dealership is the nexus point to fulfill the guest experience, and our philosophy is strongly to create the very best guest experience in the industry,” he said.
Other highlights of the new OpenRoad Toyota Richmond include visually striking architectural design and environmentally friendly technologies such as a green roof, water collection system for the car wash, LED lighting and high efficiency heating and cooling systems.
“My family has been associated with Toyota since 1967 and I am very honoured to celebrate our chapter with Toyota for the future,” said Chia.