Auto Trends Weekly Mar 20, 2015

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

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Volume 02, Issue 12 || Ph:604-597-7749 || Fax: 1-855-796-3342 || Friday, Mar 20, 2015

2015 Chevrolet Camaro Muscle car Legend Lives On!

By Veeno Dewan Continue on Page 14

2 FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Auto News

New 2015 Ford Edge production brings $700 Million Investment to Canada

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ord Motor Company has announced its Oakville Assembly plant outside of Toronto, Canada, has started official production of the all-new 2015 Ford Edge for global export to more than 100 countries.

To support the global launch of the Ford Edge, Oakville Assembly also announced recently the addition of 400 new employees to supplement the 1,000 new employees that were announced last year. With an investment of C$700 million, the Oakville Assembly plant has undergone a retooling and expansion, transforming it into one of the most competitive and advanced global manufacturing plants in Canada.

“The all-new Ford Edge is a true global vehicle and a showcase of Ford’s prod

uct excellence,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s president of the Americas. “Thanks to the new capabilities at Oakville Assembly, the 2015 Edge delivers improved driving dynamics, quality, quietness, interior space and even more technology, and we are proud for our Canadian team to start bringing Edge to customers in even more markets around the world.”

The Ford Edge will eventually be shipped around the world, from North America and South America, to Asia, Africa and the Middle East. With the addition of right-hand-drive and a diesel engine, the Edge will also be exported for the first time to Western Europe.

Vancouver International Auto Show

Three Subaru Models Named in 2015 Top Picks Subaru Canada, Inc confirmed that three Subaru models rank in the top ten of the 2015 top picks, named in a leading consumer publication. The publication’s list highlights standout models in 10 popular car categories.

Subaru is proud of its strong results as the only manufacturer to have three models make the list. Subaru’s standouts include the Subaru Forester, Legacy and Impreza.

To make the list, all picks must meet stringent criteria based on road testing, reliability and safety.

This latest acknowledgement adds to Subaru’s suite of recent accolades: The 2015 Subaru Legacy was most recently named overall Canadian Car of the Year by AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada). The Subaru Forester, Legacy and Impreza all earned a Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick Plus for front crash prevention by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). In fact, Subaru is the only manufacturer to have all of its models named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for six consecutive years (2010-2015). When equipped with EyeSight, five different Subaru models — the Legacy, Outback, Forester, Impreza, and XV Crosstrek — meet the tougher standards for front crash prevention required and earn the coveted 2015 Top Safety Pick.

All-New

V

returns March 24-29, 2015

ancouver, BC – The most important event for the auto industry in British Columbia and the largest automotive event in Western Canada, the Vancouver International Auto Show, returns to the Vancouver Convention Centre, March 24-29, 2015 with an all-new layout of exhibition space – growing 25% to almost 300,000 square feet by taking over the Ballrooms, complete with their stunning views. Leading global manufacturers will be onsite showcasing the hottest designs and newest technology to hit the market this year.

Presented by the New Car Dealers Association of BC, the 95th Vancouver International Auto Show is the premier showcase for car enthusiasts, providing the best opportunity of the year to see some of the world’s most popular brands alongside exciting new features and displays.

New features at this year’s event include the return of Exotic Manufacturers, Electric Avenue, a showcase of the newest and most innovative green vehicles and technologies, including a 100% electric Bigfoot monster truck; Car Culture, with interactive vignettes highlighting themed lifestyles and the vehicles that drive them; custom built and modified hot rods, super cars and luxury vehicles; the return of commercial vendors selling vehicle parts and accessories; and more. There’s something for everyone at the all-new Auto Show. Show Dates: March 24-29, 2015 Show Hours & Pricing: For more Information and to purchase tickets, please visit: www.

VancouverInternationalAutoShow

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Audi

Auto News

becomes Official Partner of Major League Soccer

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udi and Major League Soccer have announced a landmark, multi-year partnership agreement. The partnership, which commenced with the start of the 2015 MLS season, makes Audi the Official Automotive Partner of MLS. As part of the partnership, Audi becomes the presenting sponsor of the MLS Cup Playoffs.

Toyota donates 2014 RAV4 for safety research

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oyota Canada is donating a 2014 RAV4 to continue the next phase of safety research at the University of Toronto. Industrial engineering professor Birsen Donmez is in the midst of a three-year study analyzing driver feedback systems. These are in-vehicle features that warn drivers to focus their attention on the road, including on-dash warning lights and auditory alarms.

The RAV4 donation will be integral to Prof. Donmez’s research that is focused on how drivers react to feedback systems, and discovering what kinds of systems are most effective in alerting and motivating people to drive safely. For example, she is looking at technology such as eye trackers that can improve responses to road events and inhibit potentially risky behaviours.

Prof. Donmez’s work is supported by Toyota’s Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC), which was formed in 2011. Toyota has committed $50 million to fund the CSRC, which to date has involved support for 26 research projects at leading North American universities, hospitals, research institutions and federal agencies. The

projects are aimed at developing and bringing to market new and advanced safety technologies that help reduce the number of traffic fatalities and injuries “Toyota is committed to innovative safety research towards our goal of making roads a safer place for individuals both inside and outside vehicles,” said Seiji Ichii, President and CEO, Toyota Canada Inc. “We are particularly excited about supporting this Canadian research initiative led by Professor Birsen Donmez with the Toyota RAV4 – a popular made-in-Canada vehicle.”

Safety research at the University of Toronto has helped make possible Toyota’s newest generation Driver Awareness Research Vehicle (DARV 1.5), which is part of ongoing research into the dynamics of driver distraction. The DARV 1.5, which was first displayed at the Aspen Ideas Festival in June, uses advanced technology, including Microsoft’s Surface and Kinect and custom biometric software and algorithms by Infosys, to help driver, passengers and the vehicle itself work together as a team to achieve safer driving.

Over 40 different cars will be offered with Apple CarPlay technology in 2015

Audi’s relationship with MLS corresponds with the next phase of the League’s evolution. In 2015, MLS’ 20th season will include a new-look crest, two new expansion clubs, new star players, new media partners and a new elite automotive partner.

With the highest percentage of millennial audience of any major U.S. sport, the partnership with MLS will allow Audi to reach a diverse, passionate and fast-growing audience that aligns with the brand’s strategy of reaching the next generation of millennial buyers.

“Audi’s partnership with MLS parallels the aggressive, challenger spirit of the two brands,” said Loren Angelo, Director of Marketing, and Audi of America. “Audi remains committed to soccer and raising the profile of the game in the United States. Last year the league’s attendance hit an all-time high. As a major supporter of the sport globally, we’re looking forward to cultivating the enthusiasm of soccer stateside and driving participation of the sport in a new way.”

A

pple has announced that “more than 40 new models” of vehicles will be shipping with CarPlay-enabled dashboards by the end of 2015.

Apple CarPlay is an Apple developed infotainment system for vehicles that allows your connected iPhone to run a simplified version of iOS 8 on the infotainment display. It allows iPhone users to operate the most important functions of your phone – Maps, phone, music, and messages. Built in safety features mean CarPlay will lock the driver out of any apps and functions that may distract the driver.

Apple CEO, Tim Cook said last week that “every major car brand has committed to delivering CarPlay”. However Toyota and Lexus) are as yet uncommitted. Google’s Android infotainment systems will be available by most manufacturers as an alternative.

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Next Generation Acura NSX Unveiled

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wenty-five years after the debut of the original, paradigm-shifting NSX supercar, Acura revealed the production version of its highly anticipated successor—the next-generation Acura NSX, developed and produced in North America, to Canada’s auto media at the 2015 Canadian International Auto Show last week. The production model, in a scintillating NSX red finish, took the stage with a growl from its twin-turbocharged engine.

The next generation NSX showcases the production styling, design and specifications of Acura’s mid-engine sports hybrid supercar, and

Acura announced key details of the all-new vehicle’s design and performance. The company will begin accepting custom orders for the new NSX starting in the summer, with customer deliveries expected later in the year.

Specifically created to bring a “new sports experience” to the supercar segment, the NSX challenges conventional beliefs about supercars — much as the first generation did a quarter century ago. The approach is realized through an all-new power unit—a twin-turbocharged 75-degree DOHC V6 engine with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system—integrated with an ultrarigid and lightweight multi-material body with world’s-first material applications and manufacturing processes. Developed under the concept of a “human-centered supercar,” a car that puts the driver first in every aspect of its design, the next-generation

NSX will leverage its state-of-the-art hybrid supercar power unit, body and chassis to deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.

“Our commitment was to create an all-new NSX that is true to the heritage of NSX—a supercar that delivers a new driving experience, one where every part of the vehicle is respectful of the smartest part of the car, the driver,” said Jerry Chenkin, President and CEO, Honda Canada Inc. “The soul of a car is the emotional connection it makes with the driver. With the NSX, that connection will be intense and immediate.”

As the pinnacle representation of Acura performance and prestige, the NSX was introduced at the auto show under the theme of “Precision Crafted Performance.” The theme was the original tagline for the Acura brand, a guiding force behind the development of the original NSX and a critical component of its launch.

The development of next-generation NSX, driven by precision crafted performance, has resulted in a clean-sheet design, which involved nearly three years of intensive development effort by a global design and engineering team led by engineers at the company’s development centre in Raymond, Ohio.

The NSX will be manufactured exclusively at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, where approximately 100 highly-skilled associates will conduct full body construction, paint, and final assembly using domestic and globallysourced parts.

The PMC and its processes have been developed to perfectly blend associate craftsmanship and technology in a new approach to manufacturing. By in-housing the body construction, Acura maintains complete control over total body quality, including critical strength, suspension accuracy, and fit and finish—from initial construction all the way to final assembly.

Associates will utilize innovative techniques to deliver next-generation craftsmanship and world-class quality in the realm of specialized, supercar vehicle production.

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azda recently announced, as of the 2015 model year, all models will have warranties with unlimited mileage. This includes new vehicle, roadside assistance, powertrain, and anti-perforation warranties. “Mazda’s focus is on long-term customer satisfaction,” said Kory Koreeda, president of Mazda Canada Inc, in a press release.

“By offering our customers and Unlimited Mileage Warranty, we believe it will enhance their ownership experience by alleviating concerns such as kilometre limitations, repair costs and resale value.” “An Unlimited Mileage Warranty fits perfectly with our brand,” said David Klan, Senior Director of Sales, Marketing and Regional Operations.

“Mazda is a company that always challenges traditional conventions to make improvements. Driving enjoyment is essential to Mazda; it’s in our DNA, and every car we make. So offering a different kind of warranty that doesn’t restrict customers from enjoying their vehicle and driving as much, or as far, as they want is an ideal fit.”

Ford Mustang, Mercedes C-Class and VW Passat are finalist in 2015 World Car of the Year Award The 2015 Ford Mustang. Mercedes-Benz C Class and Volkswagen Passat have made it as finalist into the 2105 World Car of the Year Awards, (WCOTY). The top three finalists for World Car were announced at the Geneva auto show recently. Other finalists for the top prize included the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, Citroen C4 Cactus, Hyundai Genesis, Jeep Renegade, Mazda2, Mini Cooper 5-door, and Nissan Qashqai. Awards are also presented in four secondary categories: in World Luxury Car, the finalists are the BMW i8, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class coupe, and Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography Black LWB. World Performance Car contenders are the BMW M4/M3, Jaguar F-Type R coupe, and Mercedes-Benz AMG GT In the World Green Car category, finalists are BMW i8, Mercedes-Benz S 500 plug-in hybrid and the Volkswagen Golf GTE. Winners in all five categories will be announced April 2, in a press conference to be held at the New York Auto show.

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2015 Jaguar XF

Indian owned; British Built Luxury -By Veeno Dewan

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he 2015 Jaguar XF is the Indian owned, but British built luxury sedan from the esteemed performance, luxury and sporting brand which has undergone a major renaissance over the last decade or so.

Owned by the Indian TATA conglomerate that also runs Land Rover, Jaguar continues to make beautiful sedans and sports cars.

The XF luxury sedan is the last sedan in the Jaguar line-up that is made primarily of steel; all other Jaguars are made mostly of lightweight aluminum. In 2013 Jaguar added all-wheel drive to the model range; thus making it very attractive to Canadians with our harsh winters. Our 3.0 Litre All-Wheel Drive tester looked classy, and imposing in its gleaming all white paint. Lashings of chrome, bright alloys and a prominent mesh front grille finish off the car. It looks sleek and substantial with a pleasing heft to the design. Note, however that the 2015 XF is set for a revamp at some point and it replacement will probably be an all-aluminium model.

The engine is a 3.0L V6 producing 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. With its eight-speed automatic, the big XF can sprint to 100 kilometres an hour in 6.4 seconds. Jaguar cabins have always been gorgeous and the XF is no exception with and elegant, classy feel and look. The pop-up chrome gear selector is a dramatic touch and the instruments and front cockpit dash looks very well designed. The large touchscreen graphics are clear and function well. Big two tone seats are comfortable with decent padding and heated and cooling functions. The rear seat cabin is roomy and well - finished with living room for three passengers. A large trunk has ample room for at least three golf bags. Standard features on the Jaguar XF include: Power door locks, windows and (heated) mirrors, dual zone automatic air conditioning, Meridian 825-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 17 speakers, 3.5-mm auxiliary audio input, three

auxiliary power outputs, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, power glass sunroof, information display, adjustable power seats, heated and cooled front seats, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, auto headlights, front air bags, side curtain air bags, rear view camera, Jaguar Smart Key System, Anti-lock Braking, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Tire Pressure Monitoring system.

On the road, the XF’s V-6 engine has a great sporting note and is a smooth, powerful refined unit. It is a terrifically fast car and feels incredibly well-balanced with good lateral stability and excellent road handling through the curves. Both engine and transmission are well matched with Jag’s “Instinctive” AWD system that distributes torque front and back as needed. In normal conditions, the XF sends over 75 % of its torque to the rear wheels until it detects slip, then sensors are then able to direct up to 50 per cent of torque can be directed to the front wheels. Meanwhile a Winter mode can be used to deliver extra power to the front wheels in snow and low grip situations. Front and rear passengers report supreme comfort, a well cushioned ride and all the features you could want. Fuel economy is rated at (litres/100 km): 13.9 city/8.8 highway, using premium fuel.

There is not really a lot to complain about the Jaguar XF. However, it is due for a refresh soon and is a bargain at the price for now. It looks sharp, with a great interior, a sweet engine and All Wheel Drive combo. It is a car that draws many admiring looks and glances wherever it goes. A superb pedigree luxury car that will make owners very happy. Highly recommended. Auto review by Veeno Dewan.

2015 Jaguar XF AWD Sedan Base priced from $67,500.

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

By Veeno Dewan

SURREY HONDA Where excellence is the only experience This dealership offers the ultimate commitment to customers and community

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ustomers and community are the cornerstone of Surrey’s most loved and well known car dealership – Surrey Honda. For the last 19 years, Surrey Honda has gained an enviable reputation for excellent sales and service and also become an integral part of the community with its numerous philanthropic and charitable contributions.

With an experienced and knowledgeable multi-lingual staff who value courtesy and professionalism, Surrey Honda carries the full range of new and pre-owned Hondas vehicles including the Fit, Civic, Accord, Pilot, Ridgeline and CRV. Soon to arrive is the new HRV compact CUV. At the head of Surrey Honda is General Manager, Nasir Kamrudin, an authentic and community-focused professional who has spent over 30 years in the automotive industry. Originally from Uganda and schooled in the U.K., Nasir started as an auto salesman in 1982 and was employed at Nissan and Honda dealer; working his way up to his current position at Surrey Honda.

Speaking from his spacious, well-appointed office adorned with awards, photos and other memorabilia from a lifetime in the automotive trade, Nasir is amiable and relaxed as he talks about Surrey Honda and its ethos and commitment to the community.

“I’ve been General Manager at Surrey Honda since 1997 and although we have been successful, we still have our challenges, but our commitment to our community is what help guide everything we do and keeps us on track. It also helps that the Honda brand is so strong in Canada ─ with the Civic being the best-selling compact car for the last 17 years – Honda is a company that customers know and trust.”

“Business wouldn’t be business without challenge, one of the current ones we face is competition from the growth of domestic auto brands. However, we are very fortunate that Honda continues to offer the core values of reliability, performance, price, fuel economy and resale. It also helps that we have strong community connections through our philanthropic and charitable contributions.”

“Additionally, we are fortunate to be located at the very heart of Surrey, with a prominent central location. Most of our customers come because we have been recommended to them by someone we have done business with in the past. Repeat business is very important and we go that extra mile to ensure that everyone who comes through our doors feels like they got more than they expected.’

The expansive dealership has grown from 32,000 square feet to its current 60,000 square feet, on a prime 4.1 acres location with a large showroom, huge service area and wide, easy to navigate car lot.

“We are easy to find and it’s easy to park. Customers can come in, look around, have a coffee, and ask our friendly, helpful sales people any questions in comfortable surroundings,’ says Nasir.

I asked Nasir what the ethos and mission statement around Surrey Honda is?

“Our ethos and Mission Statement is to provide the ultimate

customer experience and that starts with ourselves firstly. We foster an environment where employees are treated well, respected and are happy. Only happy employees can provide a good experience to customers when they come in, so that is job number one. The employee experience here is just as important as the customer experience. Secondly, we listen and are finely attuned to the needs of the customer. We do 50% of our business here with different ethnic communities, so we have a sales staff and service staff who speak English, Punjabi, Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog and Hindi. Our people live, work, speak and know the lives of each of their cultures and that comes across in how they do business.”

Nasir adds, “Our staff are fully trained and experienced in every aspect of selling new and used vehicles. And we don’t stop there, we provide all the components of the car buying experience - follow up service, parts and trade- ins. Eventually the customer will come back and buy another car from us, and recommend us. That is actually how most of our business is generated ─ by referral. People recommend us. We see customers we sold cars too many years ago now coming back in to help their own children buy cars from us!”

Nasir reflects on the way selling cars and the automotive sales business has changed.

“We don’t like high pressure sales tactics here and we would never operate like that. Customers today have often done the research, and our job is to partner with them to guide and select the best vehicle

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community.

“We take our community responsibility very seriously, we sponsor the Fleetwood Secondary Dry Grad, participate in the annual Canada Day celebrations with the City of Surrey, we donate and work with organizations such as the Surrey Food bank and Salvation Army and our staff participate in numerous other fund raisers.”

Nasir smiles when he talks about Surrey Honda’s community involvement. “One of the highlights of our year is when we give away a Honda vehicle in community contests ─that makes it all worthwhile to see the excitement it generates and make one lucky person very happy.”

Nasir is serious when he says, “You have to participate, care and be a part of the community or else you can’t be a responsible business. In time your support become their support and it’s good for everyone.”

In closing, Nasir emphasizes that “at Surrey Honda we recognize that customer expectations and needs are at the forefront and our staff will provide you with the best-in-class, sales and service experience. Surrey Honda believes that business has to be won through our great Honda vehicles, a pleasant hassle –free buying process and second to none customer experience. We want customers who come to Surrey Honda to feel like they are coming home.” for their needs. We see it as more as offering a superior experience not just a service.”

“It is not only new cars that people buy from us,” Nasir adds. “We also carry a large selection of used vehicles available at any given time, or if need be, we can source the right vehicle the customer wants.”

Nasir says the dealership success is due to the support of loyal clients within the local

Surrey Honda is located at: 15291 Fraser Highway, Surrey, British Columbia V3R 3P3 Phone: 604-583-7421, Website: www.surreyhonda.com

10 FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Featured Article

Design overview The

T

o be unveiled to the world at the 85th Salon International de l’Automobile in Geneva, the Kia SPORTSPACE is perhaps the ultimate ‘getaway’ car – a thoroughly practical vehicle for everyday business use, yet a stylish and athletic grand tourer in the classic sense – ready to eat up Unlike traditional estate cars, wagons or even shooting brakes, the Kia SPORTSPACE presents an architectural outline that is distinctly different and sophisticated.

Its long and lean profile with unbroken surfaces and purposeful lines is emphasised by a very forward-positioned D-pillar and almost hatchback-like rear door arrangement.

At the front, SPORTSPACE wears an evolution of Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille.

But the solid Plexiglas insert isn’t as solid as it appears. Close examination reveals it is actually louvered and these can rotate to allow greater air intake when required.

A powerful satin aluminium strip runs across the front of the bonnet above the ‘ice cube’ LED headlights, giving a sense of strength and determination. The subtlest of curves along the underside of the headlamps, add further visual movement to the SPORTSPACE’s bold, dynamic face.

Further satin aluminium strips set into the chin-spoiler hide inset turn signals that become apparent when switched on.

KIA SPORTSPACE Concept In profile, the Kia SPORTSPACE is just as vivacious. A strong character line runs along the body, visually connecting the front and rear. The car’s high beltline, the simple yet gracefully shaped flanks and the low-down inset carbon fibre kick-plate add to the sense of athletic muscularity.

Further dynamism is added to the car’s ‘Ignition Red’ bodywork by another satin accent strip, a spear of aluminium which arcs from front to rear, accentuating the car’s long and narrow glasshouse. A horizontal turn signal is inset in each of the side mirrors and mimics the front spoiler indicators.

The design of the rear pillar, which is wider and slopes forwards, is combined with tapering side surfaces and a dramatic concave tailgate, ensuring the car is just as bold and exciting at the rear.

The wide rear tail lamps and a full-width carbon-fibre diffuser further emphasise the car’s wide stance and sporty appeal. The tail lamps incorporate the turn indicators, which pulse outwards when in operation.

A roof-level spoiler and the diffuser maximise air flow efficiency around the rear of the car. Twin tailpipes within the diffuser echo the polygon shape of the tail lamps.

A vertically oriented fog lamp is integrated centrally in the diffuser.

The SPORTSPACE is finished with unique 20-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels inset with carbon fibre which emerge from a pentagonal hub at the centre. The wheel design suggests powerful rotation even when stationary.

SPORTSPACE is powered by the latest evolution of Kia’s diesel-electric T-Hybrid system, previously seen on the Optima T-Hybrid concept at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The innovative powertrain is a further statement of the advanced technological capabilities of Kia, combining spontaneous and powerful acceleration in all situations with low emissions.

This state of the art innovation is further enhanced with an active multi-link rear axle to enable temporary all-wheel drive capability.

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2015 Volkswagen Passat TDI Highline Legendary reliability and value for money

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ast year, Volkswagen Canada took its stellar Passat sedan, and made it even more attractive by including some of the most popular options in the standard equipment list without increasing the price. The Passat is now available in three trim levels, and with a choice of engines at each level. The range of engines includes a new, more economical 170 horsepower five cylinder turbocharged engine, an excellent super fuel efficient TDI Clean Diesel, or a powerful 280 hp. V6 engine. Transmission choices range from either a five or six speed manual transmission, through to a six speed automatic with Tiptronic manual control or a six-speed DSG automatic.

Our tester was an upscale Titanium Beige Metallic 2.0 liter TDI Highline model available from $35,570. For 2015, the Passat TDI has VW’s latest 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel, which generates 150 horsepower (up 10 from the last generation. ) with peak torque at a healthy 236 lb.-ft.

The Highline package adds all Comfort line features plus: Memory seat and ex-

- By Veeno Dewan

terior mirrors, autodimming interior mirror, enhanced chrome exterior trim, 400W Fender premium audio system, front fog lamps, Home link, Keyless access and ignition, MIDI (Media Device Interface with IPod connectivity), Leather/Dina mica seating surfaces, nut burl interior trim, and remote start. Optional equipment on our tester included the sport package comprising of nice looking 18-inch “Bristol” wheels with all-season tires, carbon interior trim, Passat logo aluminum door sill plates paddle shifters for the automatic transmission and a rear spoiler.

The cabin in our tester was further enhanced by the Titan Black – Vienna leather trimmed seats and interior. VW’s attention to interior is awesomely impressive with superb ergonomics and design. The Autumn Nut burl interior accents are tastefully done and the plastics are high quality and the attention to fit and finish is first class. Seats are firm, yet comfortable and offer good lumbar support. Front Continued on Page 12

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Mighty Ford F-750 TONKA Truck is ready for Work or Play!

he wraps recently came off the mighty Ford F-750 TONKA truck – the nearly 10-foot-tall ultimate TONKA truck that is also Built Ford Tough – at the NTEA Work Truck show.

Based on the all-new 2016 Ford F-650/F-750, the bold dump truck is painted signature TONKA yellow with a custom blackout nostril grille and fully functional dump body from Truck Tech Engineers. The F-750 TONKA is ready to move dirt at job sites, create new playgrounds and fuel the imaginations of kids of all ages.

The mighty Ford F-750 TONKA truck – which will be on display at major work truck, commercial and vocational trade shows through the end of the year – is a collaboration between Ford and Funrise Toy Corporation, TONKA manufacturer of TONKA branded products under license from Hasbro®.

The Ford F-650/F-750 anchors the Ford commercial truck lineup – America’s best-selling line of commercial trucks for 30 straight years – giving vocational customers an unmatched one-stop shop to meet their needs, from a Class 1 Ford Transit Connect cargo van to a Class

7 Ford F-750 tractor rig.

Offered in Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab styles and in straight-frame, dock-height and an all-new dedicated tractor model for heavy towing applications, the 2016 F-650/F-750 features a bold look inside and out.

The Ford F-750 TONKA’s exterior styling commands attention on the road and at the job site with Built Ford Tough looks that also help deliver upgraded functionality. The custom grille framed by hallmark Ford nostrils helps improve airflow for optimal cooling performance.

Sharp fenders, rugged headlamps and F-650/F-750 badges embossed in the “Bold Leadership” font are new for all 2016 F-650/F-750 trucks. Available PowerScope® trailer tow mirrors feature large standard mirrors and spotter mirrors and segment-exclusive power telescoping and folding design. The area behind the cab was redesigned to more easily accommodate custom work bodies, such as for tow trucks, dump trucks and ambulances.

The mighty Ford F-750 TONKA carries Ford’s most capable gross vehicle weight rating of 14,969 kg (33,000

Continued from Page 11

2015 Volkswagen Passat TDI Highline driver and passenger room is good although rear legroom can be a little cramped for those adults with longer legs. On the road the Passat has a good whack of acceleration and tremendous torque delivered from the optional 6-speed automatic DSG transmission.

The smooth and efficient 2.0 TDI Engine is very impressive. It accelerates fast and has a wide power band. Combined with the six-speed auto box it allows for smooth predictable transitions in any driving situation.

I like the predictable and non- dramatic way the Passat handles – firm on the highways and around town with a decent amount of grip. In urban areas its light direct steering makes neat work of parking and low speed driving. Fuel economy is rated at an impressive: 7.9 city; 5.6 highway. Full mark on this car and highly recommended as an excellent, economical family sedan.

2015 Volkswagen Passat TDI Highline priced from $35,570 – Plus freight, PDI and AC Tax.

pounds) on a 158-inch wheelbase. Its Truck Tech Engineers dump body can haul up to 7,711 kg (17,000 pounds) to support the construction needs of almost any imagination.

The F-750 TONKA is powered by the Ford-built and proven 6.7-litre Power Stroke® V8 diesel paired with a commercial-grade six-speed TorqShift® HD automatic transmission. The available power takeoff provision that runs the dump body can power other accessories in the field, including a crane or other vocational equipment.

The 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine features three engine power ratings, including best-inclass standard diesel horsepower and torque for medium-duty trucks, and no vocational limits on top ratings.

The three diesel power levels available for the 2016 Ford F-650/F-750 are: Best-in-class standard 270 horsepower, 675 lb.-ft. torque, 300 horsepower, and 700 lb.-ft. torque, 330 horsepower, and 725 lb.-ft. torque Multiple ratings provide customers the flexibility to scale engine power to work applications and operations. The 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 comes with a fiveyear, 250,000-mile warranty.

FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 13

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

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13 Dodge Journey R/T AWD STK# H13-395

14 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara

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13 Ford Escape SE 4WD

14 Kia Forte 1.8L LX STK# H14-469

$16,999

10 Lexus RX350 AWD STK# H10-359

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12 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS STK# H12-407

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10 Chevrolet Camaro RS STK# H10-461A

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14 Fiat 500C Lounge STK# H14-340

$20,499 $9,999

08 Honda CR-V EX-L 11 Volkswagon Jetta 2.0L TDI STK# H11-342

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14 Mitsubishi RVR SE STK# H14-271

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STK# H08-323

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12 CHRYSLER 200 TOURING

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12 GMC Sierra 1500 SL

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12 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C250 STK# H12-248

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05 Acura RSX Premium

10 Mini Cooper Camden Edition STK# H10-166

10 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.OT

STK# H14-343

12 Honda Civic EX-L STK# H12-270

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14 Ram 1500 SLT 4X4

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11 Mercedes - Benz ML350

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STK# H10-458

10 Acura TL STK# H10-496

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STK# H12-123

13 Dodge Dart SXT STK# H13-171

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13 Mazda3 GX STK# H13-404

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11 Ram 1500 SLT 4X4 STK# H11-165

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14 FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Continued from Page 1

2015 Chevrolet Camaro

T

he 2015 Chevrolet Camaro come armed to the retro themed muscle car arena with a few updates in the styling department; drop top or coupe body styles, and a plethora of trim lines and optional V6 or V8 engines with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Changes include tweaks to the front and rear fascias and twenty-inch wheels on the top line versions.

On the inside, the Camaro’s is still a cozy, small windowed place to be with a sea of black everywhere.

You sit low in the Camaro and luckily the comfortable front bucket seats make it a decent enough environment to be. Not much room for the rear seat passengers however! The dash has a slight retro vibe to it; with four auxiliary gauges set just forward of the gear lever and a long narrow center console.

A cool-looking thin strip of green LED lighting arcs across the door panels when the illumination feature is used and a padded effect stitched vinyl cover the dashboard and on the door panels.

Equipment levels are good generally and different packages up the feature substantially. Rear seat passengers have adequate leg and headroom, but it is not especially roomy back there for long trips unless you opt for the convertible model with the top down. The trunk offers 10.2 cubic feet of storage.

The top model in the cabrio version is the Camaro SS convertible. It offers the optional 2SS package that adds leather trimmed seats, a heads-up display system, Boston Acoustics speakers, the gauge package and other upmarket features. Also offered was the RS styling package ($1,350) comprising 20-inch

wheels, HID headlamps and LED tail lamps, as well as A navigation system ($795), black full length dual Indy stripes ($535) and a black convertible top. With the narrow windows and blind spot created by the convertible tops rear pillars a backup camera thankfully also comes as part of the 2SS package. That camera displays through the neat high-resolution touchscreen. On the entertainment front- a cleaned up easier to use version of GM’s IntelliLink infotainment system proves easy to use and program.

Prime Camaros’ can also be equipped with the big 426 horsepower V8 producing 400 lb-ft. of torque with six-speed automatic. (420 hp with manual tranny.) On the road, the Camaro does offer pure muscle car thrills with its rumbling snorting V8 and growling exhaust. Acceleration is fast and dramatic and the prodigious torque makes itself known. Despite its weight and girth, the Camaro feels lighter and nimbler than you would think thanks to direct and linear electric power steering.

The torque curve as with all big lumpy V8’s is delightfully wide and the Camaro can either lope along with judicious stabs of the throttle or you can hammer it for that delicious exhaust note. Take the top down and it is really heaven as the Camaro’s well calibrated

suspension set up offers a tight entertaining road feel. Cowl shake, the bane of convertibles is largely absent, but not totally with just a mild rattle over very rough road to remind you this is an open top car with no roof to provide support. With such power available the SS quartet of strong Brembo-derived brakes brings the hefty Camaro to a well-modulated stop. Big, bold and in your face, the Camaro makes statement everyone understands!

2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible. Base priced from $50,225. Price as tested $57,405.

This vehicle is available at Carter GM Northshore 800 Automall Dr. North Vancouver, BC V7P 3R8

Call: Sunil Desai or Prakash Panchal Ph: + 1 604 987 5231 Web: www.carternorthshore.com

Mercedes-Benz next-generation Sprinter Van set for production in 2016 Mercedes-Benz will build the next-generation Sprinter van in the United States, the company announced this week.

An investment of about $5,000,000 will go toward building a new van plant in Charleston, South Carolina that will employ more than 1,300 workers when it’s up and running; Benz says construction will begin next year. This would be the brand’s second production facility in the U.S.; Benz currently builds its MClass (soon-to-be GLE-Class), R-Class and GL-Class crossovers in Tuscaloosa, AL. Currently, the Sprinter is sold in North America by both the Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner brands; the new plant will build both models.

Mercedes-Benz said it chose Charleston for the region’s “highly-skilled workers, dense network of reliable suppliers and a… logistics infrastructure (with) good connections to the nearby harbour.”

The latest addition to the Sprinter line is an all-wheel drive model, set to go on sale later this year, and Benz recently announced the smaller Metris van for the North American market.

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

All-New 2015 Dodge and Jeep Vehicle Line Up

FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 15 www.swmediagroup.ca

I

n a bold display of its expanding and award-winning product lineup, FCA Canada unveiled a quartet of divergent, exciting new vehicles at the 2015 Canadian International Auto Show recently The foursome of Canadian debuts include the all-new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, all-new 2015 Jeep® Renegade, all-new 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel and the new Ram Laramie Limited.

The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Canadian-built and powered by a new, supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI® V8 engine, the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is not only the planet’s quickest, fastest and most powerful production sedan, it’s also the most capable and technologically advanced four-door muscle car in North America. With an output of 707 horsepower, the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat’s unrivaled fourdoor performance numbers tell an impressive story, with an NHRA-certified, quarter mile in 11.0 seconds, 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds and a top speed of 328 km/h.

2015 Jeep Renegade Designed in North America and crafted in Italy, the all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade represents the famed brand’s first entry into the small SUV segment.

Renegade is built on a new “small-wide 4x4 architecture,” which combines worldclass on-road driving dynamics with best-in-class off-road capability that only a Jeep can deliver. The 2015 Jeep Renegade offers a choice of two fuel-efficient MultiAir four-cylinder engines: The 1.4-litre MultiAir Turbo engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivers 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.4-litre Tigershark engine with MultiAir is paired exclusively to the segments first nine-speed automatic transmission and returns 180 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel The new 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel drops right into a core segment of the full-size pickup truck market, bringing one-of-a-kind off-road design cues and a can-do attitude backed by Ram Truck engineering. Departing from the brand’s iconic

“crosshair” design, Rebel fe at u re s an all-new grille with prominent, billet silver “RAM” letter badging, plus an aluminum twin-snorkel sport hood, a new black powder-coated front bumper, a billet silver skid plate, new front tow hooks and new LED fog lamps Alongside the Ram 1500 Rebel, Ram Truck had an additional unveiling on the show floor in Toronto. Following its world debut just minutes before at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, the 2015 Ram Laramie Limited was shown in Canada for the first time. Already the benchmark for truck opulence, the 2015 model shows even higher level of sophistication and attention to detail, as demanded from Ram Truck’s high-end pickup buyers. The Laramie Limited’s all-new grille is the most prominent change on the exterior. Its new billet port grille with bold “RAM” lettering breaks from the long tradition of crosshair styling. On each side of the grille, a quad headlamp design includes a bi-functional halogen projector system placed in a dark background. Fifteen amber LEDs illuminate park/turn/position lamps and three amber LEDs serve for the side markers. A Ram shield logo is moulded into the housing, and the Ram name is moulded into the inside of the outer lens. Ram 1500 Laramie Limited features an allnew 20-inch forged multi-surface aluminum wheel – unique in the truck market and a detail not to be missed.

1996 Dodge Grand Caravan

This vehicle has just landed, details to follow soon! If you can’t wait though, email us at sales@vernondodge.com or call (250) 545-2261 right away! $2,995.00

Chevrolet Pickup 1981

396 HOT ROD STEP SIDE SHORT BOX BLACK BEAUTY RESTORED MAY TRADE, $8,995. Call: 604.754.6569

Infiniti M35 x 2006

4 Dr, White, 160,000 km, new tires new breaks excellent condition every option available, $12,750. Call: 604-

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Volvo 740 1989

180,000 km, WAGON NO RUST CLEAN LOW KMS BOOKS RECORDS AUTO 4CYL SOLID $2900 OBO

604 535 5997 Ford Taurus 2006

and runs perfect, a real nice van! $4800

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CHEVY ASTRO 2004 fully loaded, excellent running van for sale.

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$2,499

Honda Accord 1998 Warr. Auto, Leather, Sunroof, 206Kms Pwr Opt., $2,480.

Colverautosales.ca 604-939-8489 DODGE DAKOTA 2004

Excellent running pickup, fully loaded, available for

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102 KMS MINT COND 6 CYL AUTO 4 DR SENIOR OWNED

$4,200. Call: 604-535-5997 Ford Freestar Sport 2006

7 Passenger van, full power equipped,V6, Auto, Air, Tilt Cruise, CD Stereo, Leather, Low KM, All original, looks

Call: 604.356.3950

16 FRIDAY Mar 20, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY