Auto Trends Weekly Apr 17, 2015

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

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Email: atweekly@swmediagroup.ca

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Volume 02, Issue 16 || Ph:604-597-7749 || Fax: 1-855-796-3342 || Friday, Apr 17, 2015

2015 Mercedes Benz GLK 350 Premium compact SUV is a smart buy

Continue on Page 14

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Two South Asian women named as top General Motors Executives

Niharika Taskar Ramdev and Dhivya Suryadevara rise to the top

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ia Motors unveiled its latest concept car – the Kia Novo – at the recent Seoul Motor Show 2015. Featuring bold, coupé-inspired styling and a minimalist, driver-focused cabin, the Kia Novo hints at the design direction for the brand’s next-generation compact vehicles.

Designed at Kia’s state-of-the-art Namyang design center in Korea, and based on a specially adapted version of the Cerato (Forte) platform, the Novo bears a coupé-inspired silhouette and unmistakeable Kia styling. The Novo’s minimal front overhangs, longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline, as well as a slim, long glass area, give it a raked, sporty profile.

The smooth, geometric design of the car’s shape is blended with a series of sharp, decisive lines and forms around the body. The front of the Novo sports the latest interpretation of Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger nose’ grille, now wider and more deeply embedded, and slim new laser headlamps. Low, wide air intakes house additional laser headlamps, which frame the Novo’s bold face, emphasize its low, wide stance and give the car a unique light signature.

The Novo’s sharply creased bodywork gives the car a clean, modern appearance when viewed from the side, with strong lines on the doors, skirts and aluminum wing vents. Rear-hinged doors complete the car’s striking profile appearance, with slim, central pop-out door handles running level to the finely-sculpted aluminum door mirrors. The Novo’s diamond-cut alloy wheels feature a similarly sharp design, made up of straight edges and two-tone carbon and silver finish. Completing the Novo’s thoroughly contemporary look are an aluminum rear roofline and two-tone silver and green paint finish.

The long, wide dashboard, whose sharp lines are embellished with the use of leather, stitching and aluminum highlights, is angled towards the driver. The instrument binnacle shows relevant information through a compact three-dimensional hologram display, while a ‘blind control’ touch pad next to the steering wheel allows drivers to control the car’s many functions without having to take their eyes off the road ahead.

The touch pad incorporates a fingerprint scanner, which automatically sets up elements of the car according to the driver’s preferences, such as music selection, audio volume and the type of information displayed. A wide touchscreen in the center of the dash provides the car’s full range of functionality to occupants.

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Auto News

ETROIT – General Motors has named Dhivya Suryadevara GM vice president, Finance and Treasurer, effective July 1, replacing Niharika Taskar Ramdev, who has been named chief financial officer for GM International. Suryadevara will retain her current responsibilities as CEO and chief investment officer of GM Asset Management.

“Dhivya’s experience in leading our asset management team will serve her well in this important role for the company,” said Chuck Stevens, GM executive vice president and chief financial officer. “I’m confident that she will build on the great work the team has accomplished under Niharika’s leadership.

Niharika has done an excellent job over the past year as we improved our investment grade ratings and introduced a comprehensive capital allocation framework.”

Suryadevara will direct GM’s global treasury operations, including capital planning, capital market activities, worldwide banking and participate in business development, risk management and investor relations. Taskar Ramdev will lead the finance team for GM International, GM’s operating segment which generates $14 billion in revenue and comprises nearly 100 markets outside of China, including India, Africa and the Middle East.

Suryadevara was named chief investment officer of GM Asset Management in July 2013, with responsibility for approximately $80 billion in assets across GM defined benefit plans. Suryadevara began her GM career in 2004 in treasury.

First look! Kia Novo concept car

As well as the neat, simple design forms that make up the dashboard and center console, the interior’s four individual dark brown leather sports seats add to the minimalist ambience of the cabin, each made up of simple linear shapes and featuring built-in inertia reel seatbelts to minimize ‘cabin clutter’.

The Novo is powered by the latest high-tech production Kia powertrain to match its dynamic looks. A 1.6-liter ‘Kappa’ turbo gasoline direct injection (T-GDI) engine has been paired with the brand’s seven speed DCT to power the front wheels. The result is decisive, sporty performance and impressive fuel economy for Kia’s latest show star.

There are currently no plans to bring the Kia Novo concept to production, though Kia has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to concept vehicles that precede them. The Kia Novo concept provides a glimpse into Kia’s plans for its future compact car line-up.

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Auto News

Nissan Announces Canadian Pricing for 2016 Nissan 370Z sion). The 2016 370Z Roadster starts at $49,498 CAD.

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issan has announced Canadian pricing for the 2016 370Z Coupe, 370Z NISMO and 370Z Roadster, which will be on sale at Nissan dealers across Canada in late-spring. New for model year 2016, the legendary 370Z Coupe will be more accessible than ever with a starting price of $29,998 CAD, a reduction of $10,000 versus the model year 2015 entry-point. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (M.S.R.P.) for the 2016 370Z NISMO Coupe is $47,998 CAD (manual transmis-

The 2016 model year presents Canadians with unprecedented value for the 370Z Coupe through the new base Coupe Enthusiast Edition offering a host of standard features including: blackfinished 18-inch styled alloy wheels, bi-functional Xenon headlights; automatic temperature control; black woven carbon seat cloth; independent double wishbone front, multi-link rear, sport tuned suspension, Bluetooth® Hands-Free phone system and USB connectivity.

The 2016 370Z Coupe is equipped with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL) and choice of 6-speed manual transmission with an available SynchroRev Match® synchronized downshift rev matching system or a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters (Touring Sport model).

Two BMW winners in the Design Trophy 2015 Awards

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unich. Two BMW models have won over voters with their exceptional design in the readers’ survey conducted by German motoring magazine Auto Zeitung. The design of the elegantly sporty BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe took the honours in the “Sedans / Station wagons / Vans” category, while the extrovert use of forms embodied by the BMW 2 Series Convertible won the day in the compact class. Elsewhere, the MINI 5-door, the BMW M3/M4 and the BMW X6 ranked among the top three most aesthetically pleasing models in the small car, sports car and SUV class respectively.

To decide the winners of the Design Trophy 2015, the editors invited readers of Auto Zeitung and users of www.autozeitung.de to vote for the newly launched cars they felt represented the best design. More than 22,000 readers responded to the call to vote. The winners and runners-up in five categories were determined by the numbers of votes cast.

The outstanding quality of BMW Group design has earned a continuous stream of praise from the Auto Zeitung readership over recent years. Last year, for instance, they voted for the all-electric BMW i3 urban car, the sporty BMW i8 plug-in hybrid and the BMW 2 Series Coupe as the winners in their respective categories.

Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Promotes Creativity Amongst Canadian Youth

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oyota’s 2015 Dream Car Art Contest continues to encourage the limitless imaginations of Canada’s young people. Last fall, Canadians were asked to invite youth ages 15 and under, to unleash their creativity in the annual Toyota Dream Car Art Contest. In its third year in Canada, the contest inspired more innovative minds of Canadian youth than any previous year, receiving a record number of artwork. “The artistic talent we saw from this year’s group of entries was truly breathtaking,” said Seiji Ichii, President and Chief Executive Officer, Toyota Canada Inc. “It’s inspiring to experience the unique, bold and innovative imagination behind every idea of what the future of this industry could be.”

With the contest designed to inspire innovation and encourage the importance of having a dream among youth, entries were judged on originality, creativity and relevance to the “Dream Car” theme. The nine winning entries were across three age categories – from 7 – 15. Winners received tablet computers at various Toyota dealerships.

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Sports Car Corner

FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

All-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider

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Delivers Race-inspired Performance

dding to the Alfa Romeo brand’s legendary racing history and the exciting experience of open-air motoring, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider debuts with panoramic views complemented with a signature Alfa exhaust note, plus the essential sportiness of the award-winning 4C Coupe: handcrafted in Modena, Italy; ground-breaking and seductive Italian style; state-of-the-art Formula 1 inspired carbon fibre monocoque chassis that enables an incredible power-toweight ratio and advanced technologies. Tradition: the acronyms 8C and 6C in the 1930s and 1940s distinguished racing and road cars fitted with powerful eight- and six-cylinder engines. Like the awardwinning 4C Coupe, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider model’s designation is a return to “the great Alfa Romeos” and continues this tradition with the innovative all-aluminum 1750 cc turbocharged direct injection, dual intercooler four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 136 horsepower per litre.

Inspired by the 33 Stradale, the all-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider transcends this legendary race car’s mid-engine body forms and follows its purposeful and lightweight performance tradition with sheet-moulded compound (SMC) composite panels forming its seductive Italian design, and “clothing” its state-of-the-art carbon fibre monocoque chassis and all-aluminum 1750 cc turbocharged, direct-injected engine.

Covering the “beating heart” of this Italian supercar is a deck-lid with three functional heat extractors and an aerodynamically tuned spoiler. And it’s from the 4C Spider’s “beating heart” where every other design element starts: two muscular forms straddle the rear hood and elevate the body above the cockpit’s beltline for visual strength and foundation for the black or available carbon fibre “halo.” The rear fascia and round rear LED illuminated tail lamps blend into the muscular rear wings for a powerful stance, while stylistically incorporating large functional air intakes to cool the engine.

Below, dual exhausts are mounted at the corners and highlight the 4C Spider’s supercar stance. Inspired by the 4C Spider Concept, an all-new Akrapovic dual-mode centre-mounted performance exhaust system will be available on the 4C Spider (late

-By Veeno Dewan

availability).

On each side of the all-new 4C Spider, the sculpted air intakes spring a muscular and dynamic form that lead elegantly into the headlamps. Highlighting its exotic monocoque is a carbon fibre windshield frame, which promotes strength and lightness, while providing the attachment points for the removable, stowable cloth roof, or available exposed carbon fibre hardtop (late availability).

Leading from the 4C Spider’s windshield and down the hood are two muscular hood forms, which naturally conclude at the signature Alfa Romeo shield-shaped grille and emblem. Together with the two side air intakes designed in the front fascia, the 4C Spider forms the famous “Trilobo,” a significant facet of Alfa Romeo’s distinctive design.

Thanks to its mid-engine layout, advanced technology and compact size, the all-new 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider demonstrates its precision, agility and performance credentials with a top speed of 258 km/h (160 mph), 0-to-100 km/h acceleration blasts in an estimated 4.5-seconds, 1.1 g of lateral acceleration and 1.25 g of maximum braking deceleration.

Delivering the ultra-lightweight architecture needed for maximum performance and dynamic efficiency, Alfa Romeo engineers looked to Formula 1 and only the most advanced supercars for state-of-the-art materials. The result is a monocoque chassis made entirely of unilateral, “pre-preg” carbon fibre layers that are hand-laid for extraordinary stiffness and strength. At 107 kg (236 lb), the highly exotic carbon fibre monocoque chassis delivers a material performance that is three-times stronger and seven-times lighter than steel. Completing the competition-grade architecture are front- and rear-chassis structures and an engine-mounting frame made from lightweight aluminum.

This is a distinguishing trait of Alfa Romeo, a brand with a century of history that continues to be one of the most famous and popular ambassadors of Italian products around the world.

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

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Hyundai’s All-New 2016 Tucson

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yundai took a significant step forward in the evolution of its product offering by introducing the all-new 2016 Tucson to the North American public at the recent New York International Auto Show.

With its bold and athletic exterior appearance, and through the extensive use of advanced technology, the Tucson is the most comprehensive offer in the compact SUV segment and will redefine expectations in this fast-growing segment.

The all-new Tucson adopts the strong proportions and profile of an SUV, with an air of sleekness and agility. Up front, Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille ties into the distinctive identity introduced by the 2015 Genesis and Sonata. Built on a completely new platform, the all-new Tucson offers a spacious cabin and substantial luggage capacity. New soft touch, high-quality materials across interior surfaces, and extensive ergonomic development, ensures that every occupant enjoys the refined cabin ambience. The 2016 Tucson is also equipped with the most comprehensive set of safety features in its category, including numerous active electronic driving aids like an Autonomous Emergency Braking system with pedestrian detection, Lane Departure Warning System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Parking Sensors, and a standard rearview camera.

Customers will be presented with a choice of two engines, both offering improved responsiveness and drivability: a 2.0-litre GDI engine and a new, turbocharged 1.6-litre GDI engine. The new chassis of the all-new Tucson has been developed with a focus on ride comfort without compromising driving dynamics. The new rack-mounted motor-driven power steering is precise and direct while the new suspension and dampers offer high levels of comfort and compliance for a smooth ride.

The 2016 Tucson will be built at Hyundai’s plant in Ulsan, Korea and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date in the summer of 2015.

Auto Preview

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander

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Unveiled in Edmonton

-By Veeno Dewan power-folding mirrors with integrated turn signal round out the changes.

The auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink® also becomes standard on the SE AWC Touring Package and GT S-AWC price lines; the latter also gets power-folding mirrors with integrated turn signal and LED headlamps.

For interior aesthetics and comfort, Outlander’s cloth seats receive new contrast stitching on several models and a new steering-wheel

T

he dramatically redesigned and improved 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander made its Canadian debut in Alberta’s last week at the Edmonton Auto show– only its second ever public appearance after the global premiere in New York two weeks ago.

Unveiled by Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada president and CEO Kenny Yamamoto at the Edmonton Motor Show, the new Mitsubishi Outlander heralds a new, eyecatching design direction for one of Canada’s most enduring SUVs. The bold new look is instantly apparent at the front fascia which, with a redesigned bumper, flows seamlessly from the fenders to the left and right corners, and ultimately bending around the grille.

“More than 56,000 Canadians have purchased Mitsubishi Outlanders on the strength of its rugged, go-anywhere SUV characteristics. The 2016 Outlander goes further and ads daring new looks, driving refinement, added convenience features and an overall premium feel,” said Yamamoto.

The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander’s dramatic new look – including sharper rear styling – is part of a larger renewal story. Numerous design and engineering improvements have been made to the chassis of the 2016 Outlander, including increased body and suspension structural rigidity, redesigned suspension and Electric Power Steering, noise-isolating windshield and rear door glass, more sound insulation throughout the vehicle, new dynamic front suspension and rear differential dampers, improved weather stripping and engine compartment trim.

As well, Outlanders equipped with the 166-hp 2.4-litre, four-cylinder engine receive the company’s latest, advanced CVT-8 transmission with modified shift control for improved acceleration, performance, shift feel and torque delivery New conveniences such as windshield wiper de-icing, LED daytime running and rear lighting and, on the ES AWC Premium priceline, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink®, push-button ignition start (added with the Fast-Key) and new

design features piano-black accents; Quartz Brown is added to the paint colour palette.

Available with 166-horspower, 16-valve MIVEC 2.4-litre, four-cylinder, or 224-hp 3.0-litre V-6 MIVEC engines (six-cylinder power a rarity among compact SUVs in Canada), the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander GT offers Super All-Wheel Control – Mitsubishi’s sophisticated AWC system with added torque vectoring capabilities – essentially managing under/over steer and superior traction by providing torque to the front wheels on a left-to-right basis in addition to AWC’s front-to-back. As well, the GT price line includes advanced safety technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Mitigation.

Mitsubishi Outlander is backed by the best warranty in the world – lending itself to the company’s Canadian brand statement: Built Better, Backed Better – including a 10-year or 160,000-km limited powertrain warranty and a five-year or 100,000-km limited new vehicle warranty along with five years, unlimited mileage roadside assistance. The 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander goes on sale across Canada this summer.

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Spotlight on 2015 Canadian Touring Car Championship

By Veeno Dewan

W

ith only a few weeks since the declaration of the 2015 Canadian Touring Car Championship (CTCC) planning for this season is in full gear.

son, CTCC will create a Team Championship whereby competitors can share a racecar and earn points towards the Team Championship in either Touring or Super Class. More details will be announced at a later time.

2014 was highlighted with a record number of new competitors (15), of which six were true rookies. As usual the on-track racing was incredible with battles throughout the field. Next season is shaping up to be another great year, with inquiries from competitors as far away as British Columbia and Alberta that want to come and show the “Easterners” what they have. A number of teams that took a break this season will be back for the full year and some of the rookies are looking to elevate their game for next year.

A number of fuel suppliers have approached CTCC about becoming a supplier and partner. CTCC will explore the various partnerships available with the goal of reducing fuel costs for competitors. CTCC Officials have begun reviewing the Rules & Regulations in preparation for next season and welcome competitor suggestions or feedback.

The 2015 schedule will have some traditional CTCC dates and venues plus a few surprises.

“During the GP3R weekend, we have held a meeting to give the competitors an opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas about the future of CTCC” shares John Bondar, President of CTCC said. “I am thankful for the participation of every individual in that discussion as great ideas were presented to us. We are happy to say that officials are working on ways to implement some of them.”

Amongst several suggestions, competitors have recommended that the maximum number of tires permitted should be between four and six. CTCC Officials will examine ways to reduce costs by limiting the number of tires that can be used during a race weekend. In addition, competitors have asked about creating a Team Championship as an effective way to share in the costs and time required to compete in a full season. Beginning next sea-

The Canadian Touring Car Championship Presented by Continental Tire (CTCC) is Canada’s ONLY professional road racing series where the words Passion and Performance find their true meaning. It showcases racecars based on their original stock street version in three different categories (Classes). The entry-level Touring Class features cars with minimal engine modifications, while Super Touring Class machines have heavily modified engines and advanced aerodynamics. Grand Touring Class is for even higher power sports cars. All three classes compete at the same time on the track and challenge for supremacy in their class.

CTCC was created in 2006 based on the growth of amateur touring car racing in Canada and the pent-up demand for a professional product. Canadian Touring Car Championship (CTCC) presented by Continental Tire

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CTCC is featured in Eastern Canada’s main provinces, Ontario and Québec. Race events generally take place in the Greater Toronto Area, Greater Ottawa Area, Mont Tremblant, Montréal and TroisRivières. The competitor base expands reach all over Canada and the north-east United States. Classes include B-Spec Class, Touring Class and Super Class The concept of B-Spec was first developed through collaboration between Honda Performance Development and Mazda speed Motorsports Development with the goal of creating a common set of rules that could be adopted by different racing series or sanctioning organizations. Over the past year, CTCC worked with the Sports Car Club of America and Grand-Am to solidify a set of rules that would respect both the B-Spec concept and goals of the different series. B-Spec is designed to be an entry level and affordable category and highlights one of the fastest-growing segments of the automobile business. Both Honda and Mazda revealed their new prototypes in December 2010. Since then, the Honda Fit and Mazda 2 have been joined by the Ford Fiesta and Fiat 500 at various test sessions. Other eligible cars include the Chevrolet Sonic, Kia Rio, Mini Cooper, Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris.

MAY 16-17, 2015 Victoria Day Speed Fest Weekend Touring, Super Touring and Grand Touring Classes with Canadian Supercar Series, NCTS, GT3, PWC. Test day Friday May 15.

MAY 30-31, 2015 Spring Challenge at Shannonville Motorsport Park - Pro Track Touring and Super Touring Class with Time Attack and Invitational GT Sprints. Pro Track layout. Test day Friday May 29, 2015 JUNE 12-14, 2015 Honda Indy Toronto Touring, Super Touring and Grand Touring Classes with Indycar, Indylites, Pro Mazda, F2000, GT3 JULY 4-5, 2015 Circuit ICAR Touring, Super Touring and Grand Touring Classes with NCTS and Formula Tour. Test day Friday July 3, 2015 JULY 31, AUG. 1-2, 2015 Grand Prix Trois-Rivieres Touring, Super Touring and Grand Touring Classes with NCTS, NASCAR Whelen Sportsman, Formula Tour, GT3.

AUGUST 28-30, 2015 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Touring, Super Touring and Grand Touring Classes with NCWTS, NCTS, GT3.

SEPTEMBER 19-20, 2015 Circuit ICAR

Like its Super and Touring Classes, the new B-Spec Class has its own set of requirements and will feature showroom stock racing cars utilizing stock engines and chassis, fitted with a competition roll cage, racing seat and other safety equipment along with the approved Continental Extreme Contact race tires and Sunoco race fuel. Weight equalization will be used to balance performance among competing manufacturers.

The entry-level B-Spec Class introduces a compact car category with stock engine and strictly controlled modifications.

Touring Class features cars with minimal modifications, while Super Class machines have powerful and heavily modified engines and advanced aerodynamics Participating automotive manufacturers include Acura, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Honda, Hyundai, Fiat, Ford, Mazda, MINI, Nissan, Scion, Subaru, Toyota and Volkswagen.

2015 Canadian Touring Car Schedule

September 18, 2015

Touring and Super Touring Classes, test day Friday

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AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Auto News

2016 GLE Will be the Next New Mercedes-Benz SUV

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he very latest Mercedes-Benz which debuted at Detroit Auto Show is now breaking out from all the secrecy as the first official photos of the 2016 GLE come out from its unveiling at the New York Auto Show. The GLE is a replacement fi the much-loved M-Class. The chunky, aggressive stance is sleek with a good aerodynamic profile and is a good follow up to the M Class. Performance AMG models will have a single crosspiece grille instead of the standard models two-bar grille. The interior is almost identical to the GLE Coupe, as shown at the Detroit Motor show in January. Engine and transmission wise; the base model option is the GLE300d 4Matic with a 2.1L, four-cylinder diesel making 201 hp and 369 pound-feet of torque. Step up and the gas engined GLE350

with a 3.5L V6 produces 302 hp and 273 lb-ft. Want more? The GLE400 4Matic offer a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 tuned to make 329 hp and 354 lb-ft, whilst the GLE550e 4Matic adds a plug-in hybrid option for a very impressive total output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft. Finally, for the truly insatiable; the killer top dog Mercedes-AMG GLE63 and GLE63 S hides a massively powerful twin-turbo 5.5L V8 with output at 550 hp and 577 hp, respectively according to tune. Transmission is a 7G-tronic seven-speed gearbox. Note; the AMG models receive performance enhanced Speedshift MCT seven-speed tranny. All models will be available in 4Matic and final pricing and availability date in Canada is yes to be finalized. Will keep you posted on this.

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Auto Review

Jaguar XJL: Superb British Craftsmanship

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here is simply nothing as wonderful in luxury sedan interiors as an upmarket Jaguar. The Germans may have the edge in neat efficiency; the Japanese in sleekness, but when it comes to sumptuous old-world charm and detailing; you have to hand it to the prestigious British car maker – now owned by the Indian TATA Conglomerate. No one, I mean no one does interiors as well as Jaguar. And the rest of the big XJL sedan is not bad either. A credible match to the Mercedes E class, Audi A8 and BMW 7-series, the XJL is a big, long sleek car. Note: the “L” denotes the extended-wheelbase version as tested from the XJ model lineup.

The cabin is stretched by 125 millimetres, allowing for superb limo–like rear leg room and cabin has more passenger room than you could ever need. Power is courtesy of either a: 3.0L supercharged V6 with AWD, a normally aspirated 5 Litre

FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 11 www.swmediagroup.ca

V8 or a supercharged V8 engine as found on the XJR. Transmission is via an eight -speed automatic gearbox.

The Jaguar XJL is as mentioned has an equipment list that includes every feature you could think of – and then some. Options include: Semi-aniline trim package with illumination package including semianiline leather seats, leather headliner, lighted door sills and trunk plinth, illuminated air vents ($3,475); visibility package including adaptive front lighting, intelligent high beam ($850) Once more to the interior. A wonderful curved strip of dark wood warps around the dash and into the door tops and gives the cabin the interior feel of a luxury yacht or British gentlemen’s club. Chrome detailing, sumptuous seats and padded soft touch materials ensconce and pamper all occupants.

Meanwhile lovely swathes of leather cover most of the surfaces and your feet sink into deep, thick carpets. The big glass sectioned panoramic roof, allows for an airy and light filled cabin. There are - By Veeno Dewan precious few complaints about the cabin; the Meridian sound system is phenomenal, the comfort incredible and the whole cabin feels warmer, more pleasant and welcoming than any other luxury car on the planet in my opinion.

On the road, our test cars 3.0 supercharged V6 with AWD package was an efficient, smart package. Yes, the 5 liter V8 might give you bragging rights, however the V6 can accelerate the big XJ from 0 -100 kph in around 6.4 seconds. And with 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, it’s a match for previous V8’s with its supercharged induction. Adding to the performance chops is the XJ’s eight-speed ZF automatic; that offers super quick shifts and apportions plenty of low-end and mid-range torque where needed. Traction is also excellent thanks to the Jaguar’s All-Wheel-Drive system that is rear biased, but can send 100%

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12 FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Pickup Corner

All-New Ford F-650/F-750 Medium-Duty Trucks are tough, but quiet

- By Veeno Dewan

- By Veeno Dewan

F

ord is lowering noise levels in the all-new Ford F-650/F-750 – the company’s toughest, smartest and best-value F-650/F-750 medium-duty commercial trucks ever – to give drivers and their customers a quieter, more comfortable experience inside and out. Thanks to its exclusive Ford-designed and -built 6.7-litre Power Stroke® V8 turbocharged diesel engine, those inside and outside the truck will notice a quieter, more refined sound compared to the previous F-650/F750’s diesel engine.

“Our all-new F650/F-750 medium-duty trucks are purpose-built to give our hardworking vocational customers maximum capability,” said John Ruppert, general manager, Ford Commercial Vehicle Sales and Marketing. “While the truck is able to work harder, we also made life inside the cab easier. Lowering in-cab and exterior noise levels improves driver comfort and minimizes disturbances while idling at work sites.”

The 2016 Ford F-650/F-750 powered by the Ford-designed and -built 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 diesel engine is 25 per cent quieter inside the cabin at 97 km/h (60 mph) than the previous model, with noise levels dropping to 68 decibels from 74 decibels. At idle, noise levels are improved as much as 45 per cent, dropping to 48 decibels from 63 decibels.

Decibels measure the intensity and power of sound.

Each 10-unit increase represents a 10-fold increase in sound power, so a 10 decibel sound is 10 times more powerful than a zero decibel sound, and 20 decibels is 100 times stronger than zero decibels.

The 2016 Ford F-650/F-750 with the available 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 diesel engine is 35 per cent quieter at idle than the previous model for a listener standing outside in front of the grille.

Specific design upgrades were made to the fuel injectors to optimize the combust i o n process,

which features a two-stage combustion event instead of a single-injection event, further avoiding harsh, sudden and loud combustion. A starter or pilot fuel injector in the 6.7-litre engine begins the compression process before the main injection. The result is smoother combustion with less diesel clatter and a reduction of intrusive engine sound both inside and outside the truck.

At idle, two pilot injection events are used to make the

firing process even smoother and to aid in quietness.

The “ticking” of the high-speed injectors is masked by specially designed covers on the engine.

Mounting the engine’s turbocharger inside the engine block valley also brings improvements in overall noise, vibration and harshness. “We used smart engineering and our unique Power Stroke engine architecture to create a powerful yet quiet diesel for our commercial customers,” said John Davis, chief engineer, Ford Commercial Vehicles.

In addition to quieter operation, the 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine will feature three engine power ratings, including best-in-class standard diesel horsepower and torque, and no vocational limits on top ratings. The three diesel power levels available for the 2016 Ford F-650/F-750 are: Best-inclass standard 270 horsepower, 675 lb.-ft. torque, 300 horsepower, 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. In addition to its Power Stroke diesel engine, Ford remains the only automaker in the segment to offer a gasoline-powered engine for a medium-duty truck. The 6.8-litre V10 engine with 320 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque is now available for both F-650 and F-750 models with the TorqShift® heavy-duty sixspeed automatic transmission. The 6.8-litre V10 engine can be factory-prepped for converting to compressed natural gas or propane autogas as cost-effective alternatives to gasoline.

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

www.

FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 13 www.swmediagroup.ca

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14 FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY

Continued from Page 1

2015 Mercedes Benz GLK 350 Premium compact SUV is a smart buy

- By Veeno Dewan

F

or 2015 the Mercedes Benz GLK 350 SUV is powered by either of two engines available: The gas option is a 3.5-liter V-6, while those more concerned with efficiency can opt for a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four. The gasoline engine offers quick power, delivered to either the rear or all four wheels via a seven-speed, paddle-shifted automatic, The famed Mercedes 4MATIC all-time all-wheel drive system is standard issue on the GLK350.

The interior of the GLK is as impressive as the exterior with aluminum as standard or a choice of either Burl Walnut or Black Ash wood which covers the doors, and dashboard.

Standout features for me was the cool aluminum trim on our tester which extensively covered the dash panel and feels like real metal not plastic. I am also a huge fan of the cool aircraft style large circular “eyeball’ air vents that enable you to direct hot or cold air exactly where you want not just in preset positions. It just such a clever and effective system.

The seats are superbly comfortable MB-Tex (simulated leather) standard with leather seating as an option. Head room legroom and shoulder room are all good in both front and rear and the large windows mean visibility and a light bright airy cabin is much appreciated.

A full suite of creature comforts is available as standard including power windows, door locks, air conditioning, heated seats, power sunroof and mirrors. Driver assist Technology aids are well catered for in the GLK 350 with a comprehensive assortment provide or available as options including: Acceleration Skid Control, ABS, AGILITY CONTROL suspension, hill start assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, PARKTRONIC, active blind spot assist, active lane keeping assist, adaptive Highbeam assist and passive lane keeping assist. Needless to say theses aids will not make you a better drive, but will assist in keeping you

safer than in most vehicles. Airbag technology consists of nine airbags head in the front, front sides, front pelvic, driver’s knee and full window curtain airbags. In addition NECK-PRO active head restraints help prevent whiplash in rear-end crashes.

On the road, the first thing one notices is the ECO Start/Stop function as standard on the GLK 350. It shuts the engine down to save fuel when you come to a complete stop, for example at a traffic lights and then restarts instantly when the accelerator is pressed. You can switch the start/stop function off manually if need be. This is an excellent feature for saving both gas and the environment.

The GLK’s ride quality is very good with a decent turn of speed and little body roll no matter how hard it is pushed in normal driving. The engineering making up the standard multi-link AGILITY CONTROL suspension system with selective damping allows for a forgiving yet firm ride and predictable road manners. The 4MATIC, Benz’ all-wheeldrive system allows for a competent mild rough trail use and in snow, rain and low traction situations. Steering is well weighted courtesy of Mercedes-Benz’s Steer Control Electric Power Steering and the GLK is most car-like in it handling with sharp, precise steering and a light comfortable driving experience The GLK for my money is well worth considering if you are downsizing from a bigger Mercedes SUV or looking to get into the MB brand with its trademark superb engineering, quality and comfort. The three pointed star on the sleek front end should bring a smile to your face every time you see it parked in the driveway. Highly recommended.

2015 Mercedes Benz GLK 350 priced from $48,600 See your closest Mercedes-Benz Dealer for more information.

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY Continued from Page 11

FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 15 www.swmediagroup.ca

Jaguar XJL power to the front wheels as needed. The superb flexibility of the AWD system can be felt in slippery situations as the XJ smoothly and sportily adjust to different traction situations. Handling is good with a delightfully tactile feel and although the XJL is longer and has a slightly bigger turning circle it is a smooth, easy to drive car.

With its gleaming white paint work, prominent chrome grill and sleek body, our Jaguar XJL looked impressive, stately and had enough presence to draw admiring glances everywhere. There is not a lot to complain about. The

Jaguar is not showy and brash and won’t be your thing if that’s what you crave.

It is more of a thoroughbred, refined and with impeccable taste and manners.

Should be on the driveway of every mansion!

2015 Jaguar XJL priced from $85,625 to $113,440

1996 Dodge Grand Caravan

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Infiniti M35 x 2006

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Honda Accord 1998

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102 KMS MINT COND 6 CYL AUTO 4 DR SENIOR OWNED

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16 FRIDAY Apr 17, 2015 www.swmediagroup.ca

AUTO TRENDS WEEKLY