Highlights from 2017 Vancouver International Auto Show
The Vancouver International Auto Show (VIAS) returns to the Vancouver Convention Centre for its 97th appearance, and this year is an exciting one with a number of products making their debut North American appearances in the Lower Mainland. OpenRoad rounded up a list of the cars you won’t want to miss.
2018 Lexus LS 500h
The Lower Mainland’s reputation for being a proponent of green living is perhaps why the Japanese luxury brand chose to reveal the hybrid variant of its next-generation flagship LS sedan here. Utilizing the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System also found in other models like the LC 500h, the powertrain is made up of a 3.5-litre V6 gasoline engine, two electric motors and a 10-speed transmission. Total output is 354 horsepower.
The LS 500h is the built on the stiffest platform yet: the new GA-L architecture for luxury vehicles. Additional technology such as the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, which can control braking, steering and other integral driving systems, ensures the best possible motoring experience.
2018 BMW M550i
BMW is getting set to roll out the inital M performance version of the latest 5 Series sedan. The fire-breathing four door packs a specially-modified 4.4L TwinPower Turbo eight-cylinder motor churning out 455 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, mated to a Steptronic Sport eight-speed and rear-biased xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, making it the fastest 5 Series ever.
One of the best parts of a M-badged car is the many sporty interior and exterior upgrades that truly set it apart. The M550i receives an aero kit consisting of more aggressive bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler and inside, Black Dakota leather-trimmed seats with blue contrast stitching and a unique matching steering wheel.
2018 Range Rover Velar
We covered the news of this fresh addition to the Range Rover portfolio earlier this month, but the mid-size SUV touches our shores for the first time at VIAS. Seeing the car in person really reinforces how much attention the company has paid to the “reductionism” design aspect of the vehicle, from the hidden door handles to the perfectly rounded curvature of the bumpers.
The 2018 Range Rover Velar will be available in eight trim levels and 12 different paint colours when it goes on sale later this year.
