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Most affordable crossovers with panoramic sunroofs

Benjamin Yong on August 25, 2016

Two things are immensely popular with vehicle buyers right now — crossovers, and panoramic sun/moonroofs. After all, there is little not to like about a small SUV’s practical, safe and adventurous nature or a sunroof’s penchant for letting in natural light and some fresh air. We’ve shortlisted a few well-priced examples that combine both, ranked in order of MSRP.

The New BMW X1

The latest compact crossover from German manufacturer is based on the MINI Cooper platform, so you know it will be a hoot to drive. Only one model is available that comes with a 228 horsepower engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Add to the fun by opting for the $2,950 Premium Package Essential, which among other items includes an extra-large two-panel transparent sunroof.

The New Hyundai Sante Fe Sport

Hyundais have always provided good value for the money, and the newest Sante Fe crossover is no exception. The SE version comes with a 2.4-litre engine, all-wheel drive and plenty of extras like a panoramic sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert and heated front seats.

The New Audi Q3

The smallest crossover in the Audi family, the Q3 is an ideal choice to get you to work during the week and then up to the cabin on the weekends. A definite bonus is that the entry FrontTrak Komfort trim comes with a sunroof stretching above the second row of seating, bathing all passengers in the cabin in some vitamin D.

The New Volkswagen Tiguan

This “cute-ute” from VW is due for a redesign next year, but the current generation remains a good buy, especially if you opt for one of the mid-level tiers such as the Special Edition loaded with 4MOTION all-wheel drive, auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlights and more. To finish it off, throw in another $1,450 for a panoramic sunroof operated by a unique control dial allowing easy partial or full opening.  

PDI (pre-delivery inspection) process explained

Benjamin Yong on August 3, 2016

Anytime you see advertisements for a new car where prices are listed, somewhere in the fine print there will be mention of PDI. These letters stand for pre-delivery inspection, which is the process whereby a dealership technician inspects a vehicle for any flaws and basically gets it ready for the eventual owner.

The exact list of things to be done, and as a result the time it takes to do them, varies slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer. We spoke to our friends at OpenRoad Hyundai about what their specific tasks look like when performing a PDI.

The Skinny

At Hyundai, techs are allotted 1.8 hours to go through all the steps laid out in the inspection checklist regardless of model, which is comprised of six sections. As a comparison, over at Audi, a PDI for a S8 full-size executive sedan takes more than five hours.

Checklist

The following details what work is involved for each item.

• Engine compartment: all fluids such as washer, coolant, brake, power steering, transmission and engine, are topped up. The hood latch is lubricated to ensure smooth operation, the battery is tested for full charge and everything else is examined for visual defects and abnormal noises.

• Underside: associated oils for all-wheel drive vehicles are checked. Hoses, lines, the exhaust system and suspension components are visually inspected, and the brakes are serviced.

• Interior: the pedals are operated, looking for freeplay, and the brakes checked for correct operation. The steering wheel is aligned, and fuses installed for the radio and other electronic accessories. Every individual component of the interior is scrutinized. Locks, latches and hinges are lubricated, and the clock and radio station pre-sets are adjusted accordingly.

OpenRoad Hyundai service bay

• Exterior: all lighting is turned on and the headlights are aimed. Tire pressures, including the spare tire, are set to manufacturer-suggested specifications. Windshield wipers and washer fluid level are examined, as well as all body panels and components (i.e. weatherstrips, bumpers, mouldings).

• Road test: the vehicle is driven for the recommended 10 kilometres on both city and highway roads, listening and feeling for any issues. The engine, transmission, clutch, brakes, steering, cruise control, lane departure warning and air suspension, if applicable, are all inspected, as is the alignment and steering wheel for shimmying/pulling. The computer is scanned for any diagnostic trouble codes.

• Final preparation: all protective coverings are removed, and floor mats are put in place. Wheel covers and wheel locks are installed, if required (locks are only used on alloy wheels). Paint condition and emblems are checked. The jack, wheel nut wrench, owner’s manual, service passport, warranty booklet and guides are verified to be in their proper spots. Finally, if needed, a license plate bracket and OpenRoad plate frames are outfitted.