DRK Magazine

K E Y S T O N E L A W

G R O U P

Let us protect your rights so you can focus on getting better.

We are committed to providing exceptional service and the best value for you, our client by making you our first priority and ensuring that there is open and clear communication every step of the way.

If you or a loved one is injured in a motor vehicle accident, let us put over a decade of legal expertise to work for you.

Sandeep S. Gill TRIAL LAWYER

103 - 1 5 9 5 5 F R A S E R H W Y | S U R R E Y

604 593 3903 r ec e p t i o n @ k e y s t o n e l a w g r o u p . c o m

P E R S O N A L I N J U R Y | R E A L E S TAT E | B U S I N E S S L A W | W I L L S + E S TAT E S

ke ys t o n e l awg ro u p. com

YOUR BMW ADVENTURE STARTS HERE. Begin a new chapter with Brian Jessel BMW.

2017 BMW 7 Series

HW

Boundary

Two locations to serve you. New Car & Pre-Owned.

N

Y1

Y1

E 1st Ave.

PRE-OWNED 1515 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC V5K 5C4 (604) 222-8820

N

Pre-Owned

Brand Centre

Lougheed Hwy.

january / february 2018 H

undary

N

NEW CAR 2311 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4W5 (604) 222-7788

HW

HWY 1

Raj Desor New Vehicles Senior Sales Manager 604.657.8773

Boundary

Lougheed Hwy.

Boundary

E 1st Ave. Brian Jessel BMW – Centrally located just off Highway 1. Visit us today!

3

DRK Contents

18

Reviews & Previews

10 16 28 34 40

2018 Lincoln Nautilus 2018 ilMkn Nautilus Michelin Defender Tire imSln fIPYNfr twier dI mu`FlI smIiKAw 2017 Acura TLX A-Spec 2017 AYkurw TLX A-Spec 2018 Kia Stinger GT 2018 kIAw Stinger GT

imMnI Clubman JCW

DRK News / Views / Stuff

07 18 20 24 26 32 34

Latest Buzz

4

22

JA N / F E B 2018

Ford Brings Back the Bullitt Explore Your Local Winter Wonderlands

32

Hyundai Reveals First High Performance Model Top Quick Looks of 2017

38

Ford Introduces First Ever F-150 Diesel. You’re Welcome!!!

44

Ford Introduces All-New Edge ST

Technology & Innovations

44

07

Mini Clubman JCW

Gadgets & Gears

january / february 2018

of 46 DRK the Issue

PROVEN HERE.

HERE.

AND HERE.

BFGoodrich® tires have conquered Baja races, rock walls and highways around the world. We’re also proud of helping truckers take control in any situation. Take control today at BFGoodrichTruckTires.com.

january / february 2018

5

DRK Editorial

Editor’s Note

Jag Dhatt Editor-in-Chief

Publisher // JGK Media Inc.

Welcome to 2018! We are pleased to announce that DRK Magazine is now in its 4th year of production and it’s all thanks to our advertising partners and readers. Without you, we couldn’t continue this automotive, motorsports and lifestyle adventure.

The automotive and motorcycle show schedule is under way already and last week in Detroit, there were some amazing unveils. From the new Chevy Silverado and Jeep Cherokee to the Toyota Avalon and the new MB G-Wagon, there’s something that will make everyone go “WOW!” For Canada, the Canadian Car of the Year and Canadian SUV of the Year will be announced at the Canadian International Auto Show, taking place in Toronto in February – stay tuned!

In this issue, we welcome respected, veteran journalist and race car driver, Mark Hacking. Mark gives his perspective on the new Kia Stinger GT, which is supposedly faster than the Porsche Panamera. DRK Magazine was invited to the LA Auto Show for the debut and unveiling of the new Lincoln Nautilus; read about our initial thoughts in this issue. Finally, Sandeep Gill gives his views on the Acura TLX A-Spec while Chris Chase reviews the Mini Clubman JCW. Please visit our website at www.rackandopinion.ca and follow us on Facebook at DRK – Desi Road Kings.

Wishing you all a happy and successful 2018.

2018 dy nvyN swl nUM ^uS AwmdId! swnUM Awpxy pwTkW nUM ieh d`sdy hoey bhuq ^uSI ho rhI hY ik fI Awr ky mYgzIn hox cOQy swl ‘c dwKl ho igAw hY[ ies dw ishrw swfy pwTkW Aqy AYfvrtweIzrW dy isr hI hY[ quhwQoN ibnw AsIN ieh Awtomoitv, motrsports Aqy jIvn jwc sbMDI ilKqW quhwfy q`k nhIN sI phuMcw skdy[ Awtomyitv Aqy motrsweIkl SoA Awpxy inrDwrq pRogrwm Anuswr c`l irhw hY Aqy ipCly hPqy iftRoiet ‘c ies dw Swndwr Awgwz hoieAw[ nvIN SYvI islvrYfo Aqy jIp cYrokI qoN lY ky toietw AYvwlon Aqy AYm bI jI- vYgn vrgIAW bhuq swrIAW ikMnIAW vDIAw g`fIAW pyS kIqIAW jw rhIAW hn[ knyfIAn ieMtrnYSnl Awto SoA ijhVw ik PrvrI dy mhIny trWto ‘c ho irhw hY, ‘c knyfw dI ies swl dI knyfIAn kwr Aqy knyfIAn AYs XU vI AYlwnI jwvygI- zrw vyKdy rihxw[ ies AMk ‘c AsIN siqkwirq Aqy mShUr hMFy hoey p`qrkwr qy kwr rys fRweIvr mwrk hYikMg nUM vI jI AwieAW kihMdy hW[ mwrk ny kIAw sitMgr jI tI sbMDI Awpxy ivcwr pyS kIqy hn[ ijhVI ik porS pynwmorw nwLoN qyz smJI jWdI hY[ swnUM fI Awr ky mYgzIn vwiLAW nUM nvIN ilMkn notils dI GuMf cukweI ‘qy AYl ey dy Awto SoA ‘c vI s`idAw igAw sI[ ies AMk ‘c ies sbMDI swfy mu`Fly ivcwr vI pVHo[ ies dy nwl hI sMdIp ig`l ny Acura TLX A-Spec sbMDI Aqy ikRs cyz ny Mini Clubman JCW sbMDI Awpxy Awpxy ivcwr pyS kIqy hn[ ikrpw krky swfI vY`bsweIt www.rackandopinion.ca Aqy Facebook at DRK- Desi Road Kings ‘qy vI jwE[ prmwqmw kry nvW ciVHAw 2018 dw swl quhwfy leI KuSIAW Aqy qr`kIAW lY ky Awvy!

6

january / february 2018

Managing Director // Ron Dhaliwal Senior VP, Marketing // Jag Dhatt South Asian Marketing Director // Tony Arora Art Director // Avee J Waseer Cover Design // Ranj Bhamra Events Photography // Jag Dutt Swank Studios Legal Advisor // Keystone Law Group Accounting Advisor // Pacific Chartered Advisors LLP Translator // Tirath S. Khabra Contributing Writers // Aman Sundher Anthony Jarantilla Chris Chase Jag Dhatt Jasleen Dutt Mark Hacking Pash Brar Sandeep Gill Advertising Inquiries // Jag Dhatt 604.767.4433 jag@jgkmedia.ca

#235 - 8138, 128 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 1R1 Phone: 877.598.3374 | Fax: 604.598.9264 www.drkmag.com PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #42226512.

Postmaster if undeliverable Canadian Address to #235 - 8138 128 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 1R1 All Rights Reserved.

No material herein or portions thereof may be printed without the written consent of the publisher.

DISCLAIMER: JGK Media Inc. assumes all advertisers to be reliable and responsible for any and all liability for their claims. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it may find unfit for publication. The opinions expressed in articles and features are of the writers and may not be those of the publisher.

THE PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OF ANY KIND.

Nissan Xmotion Concept Fuses Technology with Japanese Artistry

JA N / F E B 2018

All-New 2019 Toyota Avalon is Pretty Nice

• Dramatic three-row SUV concept signals a Nissan design direction for 2020 and beyond • Stunning exterior features a powerful, dynamic presence with understated sculptural beauty – including unique U-shaped bodyside highlights and a bold evolution of Nissan’s signature V-motion grille • Crafted interior design symbolizes a Japanese landscape, honoring Nissan’s roots while looking forward to an era of connected, autonomous vehicles enabled by Nissan Intelligent Mobility

B

uilding on Nissan’s long history of cutting-edge crossovers and SUVs, including the recently introduced Nissan Kicks and Rogue Sport, the new Nissan Xmotion concept is a design exploration for another potentially groundbreaking compact SUV. Unveiled at the 2018 North American International Auto Show, the Xmotion concept features strong hints of a traditional SUV – the high stance, high-utility proportions and bulked-up fenders, stuffed with all-terrain-ready wheels and tires. Yet as the name implies, the Xmotion (pronounced “cross motion”) concept fuses Japanese culture and traditional craftsmanship with American-style utility and new-generation Nissan Intelligent Mobility technology.

“The Xmotion concept is a study in how seemingly disparate elements can gain power and strength through coexistence,” said Alfonso Albaisa, senior vice president of global design at Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “It draws inspiration from the Japanese aesthetics and techniques that have been passed down through generation after generation. At the same time, it achieves the modern purposefulness required for drivers in the near-future era of connected, autonomous crossover vehicles.”

T

he roads of Avalon, the mystical paradise that inspired Toyota’s flagship nameplate, have likely never seen a mid-premium sedan like this.

Safe to say, neither has the North American International Auto Show. Until now.

Underpinned by a Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, and powered by a fuel-efficient 3.5-litre V6 powertrain, the 2019 Toyota Avalon embodies consumers’ overarching desire for high-caliber, designcentric, technologically-savvy modes of attainable, premium transportation.

To its menu, Avalon mixes a bevy of Toyota-firsts such as standard Apple CarPlay and Dynamic Auxiliary Turn Signals, available authentic Yamaha wood and aluminum cabin accents, and Engine Sound Enhancement. In addition, drivers will appreciate the standard passive and active safety benefits through Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P).

Bar, you’ve just been raised.

january / february 2018

7

DRK’s Latest Buzz

Mercedes-Benz Unveils New G-Class

T

he new Mercedes-Benz G-Class presents itself in top form. Whether on or off the road, and whatever the operating conditions, this off-road vehicle impresses with its performance, cutting-edge assistance systems, outstanding handling, and safety. At the same time, the new suspension, DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, “G-Mode” and three 100 percent differential locks enhance not only ride comfort but also agility – on any surface.

“The new G-Class is setting the bar even higher in all relevant areas: in terms of performance both on and off the road, as well as comfort and telematics. Our ‘longest-serving’ model series is therefore ideally equipped to continue its success story.

In short, the new ‘G’ is still a ‘G’, only better,” stresses Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

Working on the development of the new G-Class was extremely challenging for the team. “Enhancing an icon such as the G Class in technological terms was simultaneously a challenge and an opportunity. Each part and every bolt came under close scrutiny,” explains Dr. Gunnar Güthenke, Head of the Off-Road Product Group at Mercedes-Benz. “With the body, our main focus was on increasing the vehicle rigidity and on the connections between the suspension and drivetrain, which has a ladder-type frame.”

At the time of market launch in May, the base specification of the G-Class will include a host of new features such as LED headlamps, driving assistance systems, high-quality interior with leather seats, and new suspension. For demanding customers, options such as the Exclusive Interior Plus, which includes leather on the interior door panels, provide even more exclusivity.

2018 Honda Accord Named North American Car of the Year

T

he all-new 2018 Honda Accord, the 10th generation of America’s most popular car, has earned the prestigious 2018 North American Car of the Yearaward. Accord’s win marks the third consecutive year that a Honda model has received top honors from the North American jury of automotive journalists, with the Honda Civic and Honda Ridgeline winning the car and truck awards in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

“Honda took a clean-sheet approach to reinventing America’s

8

january / february 2018

most popular car, and we couldn’t be prouder to receive this honor for Accord as the North American Car of the Year,” said Henio Arcangeli, Jr., senior vice president of the Automobile Division and general manager of Honda Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We’re especially proud for the production associates in Ohio where Accord has been built to the highest quality standards for over 35 years.1” The North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards honor excellence in innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction and value. Initiated in 1994, they are judged by 60 professional automotive journalists from the United States and Canada who work for independent magazines, television, radio, newspapers and industry websites.

Completely redesigned from the ground-up, the all-new Accord features a lighter and more rigid body structure, an advanced new chassis design wrapped in a more sophisticated, sleek and athletic design with top class interior space and comfort.

The drivetrain options include two all-new, high-torque VTEC® Turbo engines, the world’s first 10-speed automatic transmission for a front-drive car and a new generation of Honda’s two-motor hybrid technology. The Accord also includes a host of new safety, driver-assistive and connected-car technologies.

DRK’s Latest Buzz

Hyundai Unveils Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Car

H

yundai unveiled Monday a hydrogen fuel-cell powered vehicle aimed at showcasing its newest technologies, bucking the all-electric trend of most rival automakers.

The South Korean manufacturer used the 201 Consumer Electronics Show to debut its Nexo, a sport utility vehicle that uses voice commands, artificial intelligence and can be transformed into an autonomous car.

“We call this the next future utility vehicles,” said Hyundai vice president Ki-Sang Lee. Hyundai said it plans to sell the Nexo in California later this year, in a bet on hydrogen even as many rivals turn to battery power.

The company said it resolved a number of issues in developing the Nexo, including starts in extreme cold weather and extending the range to nearly 600 kilometers (375 miles).

While a handful of companies have showcased fuel cell technology, obstacles include the lack of hydrogen stations and a low ratio of energy efficiency in producing fuel.

“We all understand that technological challenges and innovations are a never-ending process that will continue until we realize a mobile society of maximum convenience, zero accidents and no emissions,” vice chairman Woong-chul Yang.

To promote its efforts in self-driving technology, Hyundai

has formed a partnership with Silicon Valley startup Aurora Innovation, headed by former Google car executive Chris Urmson, who appeared at the media event.

Do you like cars? Motorcycles?

Do you have a knack for writing?

Do you want to become an automotive journalist?

If yes to the above, contact us. We are expanding our team and would love to hear from you. We can provide weekly test drive vehicles for you to review and critique and get you published.

jag@jgkmedia.ca

604-767-4433 www.rackandopinion.ca

JGK Media Inc. has been in business for over 8 years, providing professional content for the heavy trucking, automotive, motorsports and lifestyle industries.

january / february 2018

9

Lincoln

Nautilus

2018 10

january / february 2018

FIRST LOOK january / february 2018

11

2018 Lincoln Nautilus

2018

Lincoln

Nautilus

H

ollywood/Los Angeles, CA: pretty fast. I do wish that the 400-horsepower engine Lincoln has been on quite the that is nestled into the Continental would be an roll lately; no, we’re not talking option, but not for now. According to Lincoln brass, about another celebrity joining this vehicle is aimed at a market that if focused on Mathew McConauhey to speak luxury and the 2.7L is a great engine for the Nautilus. volumes about the brand. Rather, it’s about the brand Both engine choices are mated to an 8-speed rebranding itself into celebrity status. automatic transmission with Start/Stop technology.

Hot on the heals of the MKC and the Navigator, It’s too early to tell if the technology can be Lincoln revealed the new Nautilus at the LA Auto disengaged, but we’ll find out soon. Many people Show in late November. Yes, this new mid-size also roll their eyes at the Start/Stop feature, but crossover is a successor to the outgoing MKX, but I personally like it because every bit to help the according to Lincoln President Kumar Galhotra, environment is a step in the right direction. For the the Nautilus is much more than a simple name USA, Nautilus is available in either front or allchange. “We wanted to develop a vehicle that brings wheel drive, and for Canada, only all-wheel drive, a sense of experience that was different than ever because you know, we’re Canadian. The system before,” said Galhotra. “And, with the introduction is set to rear-wheel drive mode as standard, unless of Nautilus, Lincoln now has a strong, distinctive there’s loss of traction. portfolio with a common and recognizable identity.”

Since this was the first unveiling of the Nautilus, Sometimes the simplest of things have the most there was no opportunity to drive the vehicle; however, profound effect. Up front of the Nautilus is a new we were encouraged to step inside and experience signature grille, and boy does it ever make an impact this newest Lincoln. “Everything about Nautilus – the wing-shape is, thankfully, a thing of the past. (and other Lincoln models) is focused on a better Below the side-view mirrors are distinctive, elegant and more human experience,” explained Galhotra. side badges that proudly display the Nautilus name From the Welcome Lights to the new optional Revel – a nice look in my opinion. Even though all panels sound system and Perfect Seats, Lincoln is confident have been reworked, behind the A-pillars, the vehicle the vehicle will appease a wide range of buyers. is recognizable as Lincoln. Rounding The seats are firm yet comfortable, up the vehicle is a redesigned tailgate, with a tonne of adjustments for the reminiscent of the MKC, complete perfect position. Choice of interior with wrap-around taillights. Overall, materials is top-notch and fit and the Nautilus is a handsome looking finish seems to be excellent. There is vehicle that carries the legacy of the a good amount of room for both front Lincoln brand. and rear passengers, and even taller Under the hood sit one of two occupants will find enough headroom. available power plants. Standard is Finally, the storage compartments the 2.0L four-cylinder that gives 245 are very well made and placed. “We horsepower, or the optional 2.7L had a specialized anthropological turbo six-cylinder that delivers 335 team that watched drivers’ interaction Jag Dhatt horsepower and 380 lb-ft. of torque. with their vehicles,” said Galhotra.

Accredited AJAC Journalist That’s enough to get this SUV moving “Based on these observations, we 12

january / february 2018

2018 Lincoln Nautilus

designed Nautilus so that it fit the needs of the driver.

Thus, for example, the storage area between the front seats is designed to fit even a lady’s handbag.” Where did this extra space come from? Well, lately, most Lincoln vehicles are now equipped with the by-wire, push button gear selector. I’m a fan of an actual gear shifter, but the modern individual doesn’t seem to mind – they would much rather prefer the extra space than a shifter. Moving on, there’s a beautiful 12.3” digital instrument cluster that can be customized in a variety of ways. Of course, in this luxury vehicle, you’ll find a wireless charging pad and the SYNC 3 infotainment comes standard with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

I had mentioned that Lincoln has been on a roll recently, but just how well is the brand doing? Well, in Canada and the USA, 2017 has marked the 4th year of consecutive growth for Lincoln, ahead of the class in the luxury segment. The growth is even more staggering overseas. In 2015, the brand sold just over 11,000 units in China; and this year, 45, 729 units have been sold up to October!

january / february 2018

13

2018 Lincoln Nautilus

2018

ilMkn

Nautilus

hOlIvu`f/lws eyNjls, kYlyPornIAw: hwL ‘c ilMkn ny kwPI m`lW mwrIAW hn[ mYN iksy hor isqwry dI g`l nhIN kr irhw jo mYiQaU mkOnhI nwL imL ky ies bRWf dy guxgwn kr irhw hY, sgoN ieh bRWf Kud Awpxy Awp nMU iksy isqwry vWg cmkwx dI koiSS kr irhw hY[ MKC Aqy nYvIgytr dy qurMq bwAd hux ilMkn ny nvIN nOtIls dI GuMF cukweI nvMbr dy AKIr ‘c lws eyNjls Awto SoA ‘c kIqI hY[ ieh nvIN drimAwny sweIz dI krwsEvr ipClI MKX au`qrwiDkwrI hY[ pr ilMkn dy pRDwn kumwr glhoqrw Anuswr ieh isrP sDwrn nWA bdlwA nwloN ikqy izAwdw hY[ glhoqrw ny ikhw ik AsIN ie`k Aijhw vhIkl ivksq krnw cwhuMdy sI jo pihlW nwloN ikqy v`Krw qzrbw hovy Aqy nOtIls dI SurUAwq nwL ilMkn koL ie`k Awm Aqy pCwx vwLw mzbUq, ivl`Kx portPolIE hY[ keI vwr ieMj vI huMdw hY ik bhuq sDwrx ijhIAW dw Asr kmwl dw huMdw hY[ nOtIls dy iblku`l A`gy ie`k nvIN isgnycr igRl hY Aqy ieh bhuq vDIAw lgdI hY[ KMB vrgI Skl hux bIqy dI g`l ho geI hY[ pwisAW dy SIiSAW dy hyTW v`KrI iksm dy bYz hn ijs ‘qy nOtIls nWA iliKAw hoieAw hY[ myrI nzry ieh bhuq vDIAw lgdw hY[ BwvyN swry pYnl ‘qy muV kMm kIqw igAw hY pr ey – ip`lrz dy ip`Cy vhIkl ilMkn vWg idsdI hY[ jy smu`cI g`l krIey qW ieh vhIkl ie`k soDI

14

january / february 2018

geI tylgyt, MKC vrgI id`K vwLI hY ijs dIAW tyl lweItW vDIAw FMg nwL lweIAW geIAW hn[ Asl ‘c nOtIls ie`k bhuq vDIAw id`K vwLI vhIkl hY ijs ny ilMkn bRWf dI iprq nUM A`gy vDwieAw hY[ hu`f hyTW do SkqISwlI pwvr plWt hn stYNfrf jo hY auh 2.0L four-cylinder hY, ijs dI 245 hwrs pwvr hY[ jW AwpSnl 2.7L turbo six-cylinder vwLI hY ijs dI hwrspwvr 335 hY, Aqy ies dI tork 380 lb-ft hY[ ies SUV nUM bhuq qyz clwaux leI ieh sB kwPI hY[ mYN qW cwhuMdw hW ik 400 hwrspwvr dy ieMjx vwLI vI huMdI[ ilMkn dy cotI dy pRbMDkW dw kihxw hY ik Arwm dI g`l krIey qW notIls leI 2.7L kwPI hY[ dovW iksm dy ieMjxW ‘c 8- spIf AwtomYitk tRWsimSn stwrt/ stwp qknIk hY[ ieh qW Ajy ikhw nhIN jw skdw ik qknIk nUM pwsy kIqw jw skdw hY pr ies sbMDI jldI pqw l`g jwvygw[ keI lokW nUM stwrt/ stwp qknIk vI ku`J EprI lgdI hY[ pr mYnUM ieh ies leI cMgI lgdI hY ik vwqwvrx nUM TIk r`Kx leI cu`ikAw igAw koeI vI kdm bhuq vDIAw g`l hY[ jy g`l AmrIkw dI krIey qW ie`Qy notIls PRMt vIHl fRweIv vI imldI hY Aqy Awl vIHl fRweIv vwLI vI[ pr knyfw ‘c hwl dI GVI isrP Awl vIHl fRweIv vwLI hI imldI hY[ ikauN qusIN jwxdy hI ho ik AsIN knyfIAn ju hoey[ ies isstm

2018 Lincoln Nautilus

‘c Awm krky vhIkl rIAr- vIHl fRweIv ‘c hI cldw hY bSrqy ik sVk ‘qy iqlkx hovy[ ikauN ik ieh nOtIls dI pihlI GuMF cukweI sI ies leI ies nMU clw ky prKx dw mOkw nhIN imiLAw[ pr swnUM ies dy AMdr jwx leI Aqy ies sB qoN nvIn ilMkn nUM vyKx leI zrUr ikhw igAw[ glhoqrw ny ies bwry d`sdy hoey ikhw ik nOtIls Aqy hor ilMkn mwflW bwry hr cIz ie`k ibhqr Aqy izAwdw mnu`KI AnuBv ‘qy kyNdirq hY[ vDIAw lweItW qoN lY ky AwpSnl rYvl swaUNf isstm Aqy bhuq vDIAw sItW hox krky ilMkn nMU ieh ivSvws hY ik ieh vhIkl bhuq

swry KRIddwrW dIAW AwsW ‘qy Krw au`qrygw[ ies dIAW sItW nroeIAW pr bhuq Awrwmdwiek hn[ AMdrUnI FWcy dI cox cotI dI Aqy bhuq vDIAw hY[ mUhrly Aqy ipCly muswiPrW dy bYTx leIH Aqy bhuq itkwxy isr l`gy hoey hn[ A`gy jwrI r`Kdy hoey glhoqrw ny ikhw ik swfy koL ie`k Kws ivSyS mwnv ivigAwn dI tIm sI ijs ny fRweIvrW dy vhIklW nwL sMprk nMU ghu nwL vyiKAw Aqy iPr ienHW dy inrIKxW qoN bwAd bhuq iDAwn nwL nOtIls nMU fIzweIn kIqw qW ik ieh iblku`l fRweIvrW dIAW loVW muqwbk hovy[ audwhrx dy qOr ‘qy mUhrILW sItW dy ivckwr storyj jgHw ieMnI Ku`lHI hY ik AOrqW dy prs Awrwm nwL ies

‘c r`Ky jw skx[ ieh vwDU jgHw ik`QoN AweI? ikauNik hux bhuqy ilMkn vhIkl btn dbwaux nwL ie`k vwier rwhIN gyAr bdlx dy kwbl hn, mYN Asl ‘c btn nwloN gyAr iSPtr nMU qrjIh idMdw hW pr bhuqy lokW nMU koeI Kws Prk nhIN pYNdw ik gyAr iks qrHW bdly jw skdy hn Aqy auh izAwdw storyj nMU hI pihl idMdy hn[ ies ‘c 12.3” skrIn vwLw ifzitl ieMstrUmYNt pYnl hY ijs nMU ik keI qrHW nwL Afjst kIqw jw skdw hY[ ies ‘c AYpl kwr plyA Aqy AYNfroief Awto donW leI hI vwierlY`s cwrijMg pYf Aqy SYNC 3 ienPotynmYNt

stYNfrf l`gw AwauNdw hY[ mYN ijkr kIqw sI ik ilMkn m`lW mwrn vwLy rwh ‘qy jw irhw hY, pr Asl ‘c ieh bRWf ikMnI vDIAw kwrguzwrI kr irhw hY? ies dw jvwb hY ik knyfw Aqy AmrIkw ‘c 2017 ‘c lgwqwr cOQy swl ilMkn AwpxI lgzrI klws ‘c sB qoN izAwdw ivkws krn vwLw bRWf hY[ dUjy dySW ‘c qW ieh ivkws hor vI bhuq izAwdw hoieAw hY[ 2015 ‘c cIn ‘c ilMkn ny 11,000 vhIkl vycy sn jdoN ik ies swl isrP AkqUbr mhIny dy AMq q`k hI 45,729 vhIkl vycy jw cu`ky hn!

january / february 2018

15

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Michelin

Defender Tire Application:

2010 Honda Odyssey

L

ike buying a good pair of shoes, finding the right application of tires for your vehicle can make all the difference in the world. Call me overly careful, but when the most important people in my life are riding with me in my vehicles, I have to make sure I have done my due diligence to find the best tires that will keep my family safe while, at the same time, provide great ride comfort, fuel economy and wear.

This year, our Honda Odyssey, named Rose, was in need of some new tires and thus, began the search. I have always been a fan of Michelin tires – on most of my cars, it’s my goto brand. Sure, they might be a tad bit more money than the competitor, but from experience, the pros greatly outweigh the slightly higher price. After some initial research, I had narrowed it down to the new Michelin Defender, designed and built for passenger cars and minivans.

A couple of phone calls later, I had booked an appointment for the new tires at the Tirecraft location in Port Coquitlam.

I have to say one thing about any service centre – a good, respectable service centre will always be kept clean, tidy, and usually, have a pot of fresh coffee. This little extra effort speaks volumes about the values and ideals of the people who own and/or work there. As usual, I was not disappointed with Tirecraft.

After tire installation, the van was brought out front and the new Michelin Defender tires looked great. Wait, they looked great? Well, yes, even on the mini-van, they looked great because they have a great tread pattern and the sidewalls were fitting for the vehicle.

Since this is an initial review of the tire, I will only comment on the first week we’ve had these tires. The tires coming off 16

january / february 2018

the van were the Michelin Energy LX4 and right off the bat, we noticed that the new Defenders were quieter. While the Energy tires faired poorly in road noise, especially at higher speeds, the Defenders have proven to be much quieter, as noticed on the same roads that we normally travel.

Living in Vancouver allows us to enjoy plenty of good ‘ol West Coast rain and sometimes, the constant pitter patter, mixed with oil on the roads, can make driving treacherous. The Defender tires have made driving in rain much safer as there is little tire slippage, especially when going around curves and corners. When taking a turn to go up the street to our house, I recall the Energy tires used to skid slightly. Yes, they were worn, but according to Tirecraft, they were still within safe limits and had even wear. Now, we can take that turn with much more confidence, even in almost downpour conditions. According to Michelin, MaxTouch Construction maxims tire contact with the road and evenly distributes forces of acceleration, braking and cornering.

Finally, the best thing we’ve noticed so far is superior responsive handling. No, the Odyssey is not a car, but the Defenders do an excellent job in providing great feedback to the driver; steering response is excellent. Taking fast corners and windy roads is much better now; even my kids get some giggles when we pretend we’re in a race, taking hair raising corners at lightning speeds (we have great imaginations).

Thus, in the first week and some, I’ve really liked the Michelin Defender tires. They’ve proven to be a great handling, quiet, and safe tire. In the next issue, I’ll provide more information on tire wear and any changes to fuel economy.

DRK News / Views / Stuff

imSln fIPYNfr twier dI mu`FlI smIiKAw

ijs qrHW cMgI ju`qI KRIdxI bhuq zrUrI hY ies qrHW iksy nzry hI swnUM pqw l`g igAw ik nvyN twier bhuq SWq hn[ pr vhIkl ‘c vrqy gey twier vI bhuq mh`qvpUrn hn[ mYnUM BwvyN AYnrjI twier sVkI rOLy r`py ‘c mwVy hI swbq hoey, Kws krky bhuqI mIn myK krn vwLw kih lE pr jdoN mYN twierW dI vrqoN jdoN spIf qyz sI[ auh sVkW jo AsIN Awm vrqdy hW ‘qy, krdw hW qW mYN bhuq iDAwn r`Kdw hW ik ieh bhuq vDIAw hox fIPYNfr kwPI SWq is`D hoey[ ikauN ik mYnUM Awpxy qoN ibnw, nwL sPr krn vwiLAW, ieh BwvyN vYnkUvr ‘c rihMdy hox krky AsIN swrw swl hI mINh dw AnMd myrw pirvwr hovy jW hor s`jx im`qr, aunHW dI sur`iKAw dw iPkr mwxdy rihMdy hW, keI vwr lgwqwr qyz mINh Aqy sVk ‘qy ifgy l`gw rihMdw hY[ hoey qyl dw imSrx sVkW nMU bhuq hI Kqrnwk bxw skdw hY[ ies swl swfI roz nWA dI hONfw AOfysI nUM nvyN twierW dI pr fIPYNfr twier Kws krky moVW GyVW Aqy sVk dy vlyivAW loV peI[ ies leI ies dI BwL SurU ho geI[ AwpxIAW ‘qy bhuq hI G`t sil`p hox krky mINh ‘c g`fI clwaux nMU kwPI bhuqIAW kwrW ‘c mYN sdw hI imSln twierW dI hI vrqoN sur`iKAq bxw idMdy hn[ jdoN Awpxy Gr nMU jwx leI mYN sVk krdw irhw hW[ ieh myrw mnBwauNdw bRWf hY[ ho skdw hY qoN muVdw huMdw sI qW mYnUM Xwd hY ik moV au`qy AnrjI twier QoVHy ik hor mukwbly dy twierW nwLoN ies leI zrw izAwdw hI ijhy iqlkdy huMdy sn[ hW, mYnMU pqw hY ik auh QoVHy Gsy hoey sn, jyb iF`lI krnI pvy[ pr QoVHI ijhI v`D kImq dw Pwiedw bhuq pr twier krwPt vwiLAW Anuswr aunHW ‘qy Ajy kwPI tRY`f bcdw rihMdw hY[ Aw^r ‘c myrI psMd imSln fIPYNfr ‘qy hI itkI sI Aqy auh twier Ajy hor vrqxXog hwlq vwLy sn[ hux AsIN ijhVy ik pYsyNjr kwrW Aqy imnIvYnW leI hI bxwey gey hn[ ieh moV kwPI Brosy nwL muV skdy hW, BwvyN mUslyDwr mINh pY ku`J tYlIPon kwlW qoN bwAd mYN port kuiktlm ‘c twierkRwPt irhw hovy[ imSiln Anuswr bRykW lwauNdy smyN Aqy moV k`tdy hoey srivs sYNtr ‘qy igAw[ koeI vI srivs sYNtr hovy mYN ienHW mYkst`c twier dw sMprk sVk nwL ie`ko ijhw ‘qy v`D qoN v`D bwry ie`k g`l kihxI cwhuMdw hW[ ie`k cMgw srivs stySn auh bixAw rihMdw hY[ hY ij`Qy sPweI hovy, cusq Purq hovy Aqy nwL hI qwzI kOPI vI AMq ‘c jo sB qoN vDIAw g`l AsIN not kIqI, auh ieh hY ik auplbD hovy[ jy QoVHw ijhw iDAwn id`qw jwvy qW ienHW twierW dI hYNfilMg bhuq hI vDIAw hY Aqy ieh srivs sYNtr SlwGw dw pwqr bx skdw hY[ bhuq hI jMm ky cldy hn[ AOfIsI kwr qW nhIN hY iesy qrHW jdoN mYN twierkRwPt sYNtr ‘qy igAw qw pr fIPYNfr vloN jo huMgwrw fRweIvr nMu imldw hY auh ie`Qy sB ku`J TIk Twk sI[ bhuq hI vDIAw hY, styAirMg irspONs vI bhuq hI jdoN mYN imSln fIPYNfr twier pvw ky vYn vDIAw hY[ hux moV qyz rPqwr ‘qy k`tx vyLy koeI bwhr k`FI qW ieh ienHW twierW nwL bhuq vDIAw fr nhIN rihMdw ie`QoN q`k ik jdoN AsIN keI vwr qyz lgdI sI[ ieh hI nhIN ieh imMnI vYn ‘qy vI rPqwr ‘c moV muVn dI AYkitMg vI krdy hW qW myry bhuq vDIAw lgdy hn[ kwrn ieh ik ienHW dw b`icAW nMu vI kwPI AnMd AwauNdw hY[ trY`f pYtrn hI bhuq vDIAw hY[Aqy ienHW dy isry ies qrHW pihly A`T ds idnW ‘c mYnMU imSln vhIkl nwL pUry iP`t hn[ fIPYNfr twier kwPI psMd Awey hn[ ienHW twierW kyvl mu`FlI smIiKAw hox krky mYN kyvl ny Awpxy Awp nMU bhuq hI jMm ky c`lx vwLy, SWq ies dI pihly hPqy dI kwrguzwrI ‘qy hI Aqy sur`iKAq twier swbq kIqw hY[ Agly AMk ‘c Jag Dhatt it`pxI krWgw[ ijhVy twier vYn qoN bdly mYN ienHW dI GsweI Aqy qyl Kpq ‘c hoeI qbdIlI Accredited AJAC Journalist gey auh sn Michelin Energy LX4 dy[ pihlI bwry hor jwxkwrI pyS krWgw[ january / february 2018

17

Ford Brings Back the Bullitt

C

elebrating the 50th anniversary of iconic movie “Bullitt” and its fan-favourite San Francisco car chase, Ford introduces the new cool and powerful 2019 Mustang

Bullitt.

Third-generation member of the McQueen family, Molly, starred in a special movie of her own introducing the new thirdgeneration Bullitt at the North American International Auto Show.

In the film, Molly races a new Mustang Bullitt through a parking structure battling a Dodge Charger for the final free space.

Helping it win that particular spot was the Bullitt’s upgraded 5.0-litre V8 engine that will deliver at least 475 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, pushing the new Bullitt to a top speed of 163 mph – an 8 mph increase versus the latest Mustang GT. Special Edition As a special-edition model due out this summer – the all-new Mustang Bullitt is equipped with a manual transmission, and the gear shifter features a white cue ball shift knob as a nod to the original. The vehicle packages all Mustang GT Premium and Performance Package content into a vehicle that maintains the original Bullitt’s understated persona.

An active valve performance exhaust system is standard with new Black NitroPlate™ exhaust tips, and retuned to give the car a signature burble, as well as new Open Air Induction System and Shelby GT350 intake manifold with 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration for optimal performance.

Other standard equipment includes a heated leather steering wheel and a 12-inch all-digital LCD instrument cluster, identical in function to the cluster introduced on 2018 Mustang, but with a unique Bullitt welcome screen that starts in green with an image of the car rather than the pony.

“This new Bullitt is, as Steve McQueen was, effortlessly cool,” 18

january / february 2018

said Darrell Behmer, Mustang chief designer. “As a designer, it’s my favourite Mustang – devoid of stripes, spoilers and badges. It doesn’t need to scream about anything – it’s just cool.”

Exterior paint choices are limited to Shadow Black and the classic Dark Highland Green – as worn in the movie. Other features that pay tribute to the car McQueen drove are subtle chrome accents around the grille and front windows, classic torque thrust 19-inch aluminum wheels, red painted Brembo™ brakes, and a unique black front grille. Inside and out, the vehicle uses minimal badging; only the circular faux gas cap Bullitt logo on the rear centre is visible on the exterior.

The leather-trimmed interior features unique green accent stitching on the dashboard, door panels, centre console and seats.

Aside from the two exterior paint choices, Mustang Bullitt buyers are limited to three factory-installed options: • Bullitt Electronics Package includes navigation, driver memory seats and mirrors, upgraded sound system and Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert that can alert customers of vehicles detected in difficult-to-see places – standard in Canada • MagneRide® semi-active suspension system optimizes driving performance – standard in Canada • RECARO® black leather-trimmed seats “When making a Bullitt, there are certain things it absolutely must have,” said Carl Widmann, Mustang chief engineer. “It has to have the right attitude, it has to be unique in some way from a Mustang GT, and more than anything, it has to be bad ass.”

That reputation was born after a Mustang GT fastback played a prominent role in the 1968 movie, and most notably in a chase scene that set new standards in filmmaking. The film’s nearly 10-minute-long sequence followed McQueen chasing down two hitmen in his Mustang through the streets of San Francisco.

january / february 2018

19

DRK News / Views / Stuff

T

Explore Your Local Winter Wonderlands

he holiday season might be over, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Living in beautiful British Columbia means you have your pick of local winter wonderlands to explore. So, let’s wonder! Grab your waterproof clothing, jump in your car and make your way to one of these 5 stunning locations.

Fall back in love with winter.

Cypress Mountain Cypress is just 30 minutes from the heart of downtown Vancouver and just 64 minutes from Richmond. It’s packed with fun winter activities for the entire family. If you’re looking for a winter walk or ski/snowboard day on the slopes, Cypress is your spot. It offers 11km of self-guided snowshoe trails that will take you past frozen lakes and through alpine meadows. You can also rent snowshoes on the mountain or pay for a tour if you’d prefer a guided experience.

Grouse Mountain Grouse Mountain offers skiing, ice-skating and beautiful snowshoeing trails and is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. The Munday Alpine Park has something for beginners and intermediates. And, for those looking to stay fit in the winter, there is the Snowshoe Grind that is 4.3 km - it’s a timed uphill trail that gains 240 meters of elevation. The trail will get you back to your January fitness goals in no time. Grouse truly is a natural winter playground.

Mount Seymour Seymour might require a slightly longer drive of 81 minutes, but it’s well worth it. The drive is a winding road that crawls through a beautifully frosted forest. Snowshoe Magazine rates Seymour the number one resort for snowshoeing in North America in 2012. The mountain has tours for all appetites from beginners to athletes. The most popular hike is a 4.5 km hike to Dog Mountain. On Seymour, you are witness to frozen lakes and deep forest trails. Rentals are available on the mountain along with guided tours. Seymour really 20

january / february 2018

is a nature lovers’ paradise.

Elfin Lakes Get ready for a beautiful 1 h 52 min drive on the infamous sea-to-sky highway. If you are looking for a slightly more intense winter adventure, this is it. Elfin Lakes is a long 11 km trail in the Garibaldi Provincial Park. It’s six to eight hours of amazing views of snowy mountains. And if you beat the crowds you can book a bunk in the cabin or for the braver characters there’s snow camping too. You will need to bring all your gear to the mountain, as facilities are limited.

Brandywine Falls This is an easy hike to a beautiful waterfall. The drive is roughly 1 h 21 minutes and is just outside of Squamish. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park has the amazing, Sea to Sky Trail running right through it. The trail to Brandywine Falls trail is one for the entire family, it’s easy and flat and doable without snowshoes if you’re willing to get a little wet.

Enjoy the outdoors this winter season and always remember that driving in winter conditions is different. Before you go on a search for your winter wonderland make sure your vehicle has winter tires, good visibility, and a winter emergency kit.

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Mercedes-Benz Canada Announces New Leadership Structure for its Corporate Stores

E

ffective January 1, all 11 of Mercedes-Benz Canada’s corporate stores will be reporting to Robert Müller, the newly-appointed Vice President, Corporate Retail. Previously, the seven Toronto Retail Group (TRG) and four Vancouver Retail Group (VRG) locations were managed under separate leadership. The new structure’s single chain of command will streamline processes as well as generate a more consistent overall customer experience in these two key markets.

The change follows a comprehensive review of Mercedes-Benz Canada’s corporate TRG and VRG retail stores, which have enjoyed several consecutive years of healthy sales and exceptional customer service ratings.

“We take pride in being proactive in all areas of our business - whether anticipating our customers’ needs or identifying new opportunities where we can excel,” says Brian D. Fulton, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Canada. “We are committed to driving organizational change from a position of strength, which is why this was an excellent time for us to take this next step toward making an already strong retail organization even better.”

As part of the overall review, Mercedes-Benz Canada engaged an outside consulting firm to conduct a thorough independent assessment of the organizational structure of the corporate retail stores. The findings revealed a timely opportunity for Mercedes-Benz Canada and its corporate stores to better align their strategic efforts under a single chain of command, allowing them to leverage best practices from both TRG and VRG. In December 2017, Mercedes-Benz Canada announced that Robert Müller would succeed Philipp von Witzendorff as Vice President, Toronto Retail Group. Under the new structure, Müller’s scope of responsibility expands to include all corporate stores across the country.

Müller started his career with the company in 2006, working as a Service Manager at the then newly built Mercedes-Benz Maple dealership. Over the years, he has gained experience in a variety of roles most recently in Region Europe, where he established and steered a Europe-wide own retail organization. In his new function, Robert will be based in Toronto but will be regularly travelling to Vancouver.

“I look forward to working closely with our Canadian own retail management team in Toronto and Vancouver. Together, we’ll identify opportunities to maintain our leadership position, engage our staff and, most importantly, continue to exceed our customers’ expectations,” says Robert Müller. “It is exciting to be leading this new chapter for Mercedes-Benz Canada’s corporate stores. I am confident that the new structure will make our own retail organization even stronger.”

vDIAw aUrjw leI vcxb`D

TOTAL RUBIA OPTIMA hYvI ifaUtI ieMjx Awiel

CK-4 & FA-4 hr idn quhwnMU A`gy iljwx leI

TOTAL RUBIA OPTIMA 1100 15W-40

TOTAL RUBIA OPTIMA 1100 10W-30

TOTAL RUBIA LD EXTRA 10W-30

Suivez-nous sur

TotalCanada

www.total-canada.ca

SkqI BrpUr pRdrSn hr idn

january / february 2018

21

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Kia Motors Releases Renderings Of All-New 2019 Forte Sedan Ahead Of North American International Auto Show World Debut from a cab-forward design to one that is decidedly swept-back.

Creases in the hood lend to the Forte’s muscular appearance and distinctive design traits on the front fascia, including a fresh approach to Kia’s signature tiger nose grille and an aggressive lower valance enhance its road presence. The front clip is flanked by a more dynamic headlamp design and layout.

Around back, the rear bumper gets the same treatment with separate reverse and turn signal indicators located beneath the taillights. Similar to the Sportage compact crossover, a sleek horizontal strip connects the taillights, lending visual width.

Inside, a horizontal theme creates a

A

head of the global debut of the all-new 2019 Kia Forte sedan at the upcoming North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), Kia Motors today revealed design renderings of the compact sedan. While the thirdgeneration Forte retains its sporty and youthful image, it has graduated with a more sophisticated appearance thanks to a number of sleek and dynamic styling cues inspired by the Stinger fastback sport sedan. What is most noticeable is that the Forte has evolved

sense of openness, avoiding clutter with clean lines and minimal buttons that are intuitively placed below a large screen. Aeronautically inspired spoked circular vents similar to those found in the Stinger adorn the dash.

Full details regarding the 2019 Forte will be revealed at the NAIAS Kia press conference, scheduled January 15, 2018, at 11:35 AM (Eastern U.S. time).

22

january / february 2018

DRK News / Views / Stuff

2018 Subaru BRZ Launches with New Models and Features

S

ubaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce that the 2018 BRZ will be available in showrooms across Canada this winter. The rear-wheel-drive sports car for car aficionados, BRZ enters the New Year with a new lineup that includes both a new trim, the Sport-tech RS, and the muchanticipated limited production BRZ tS. The naturally aspirated 2.0-litre 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine with direct and port fuel injection provides up to 205 horsepower that is controlled effortlessly by either the 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission or the optional 6-speed automatic transmission with gated shifter with manual mode and paddle shifters.

For 2018, the BRZ introduces a choice of four trim levels into its lineup. The BRZ entry model comes equipped with sixspeed manual transmission; new 7-inch infotainment system that includes GPS navigation as well as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, STARLINK smartphone integration, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation and Bluetooth streaming audio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio; wiper-activated headlights; welcome lighting and one-touch turn signals. The 2018 BRZ Sport-tech is equipped with six-speed automatic transmission, heated front seats, black leather with black Alcantara and red stitching, dual-zone

climate control, LED fog lights and proximity key with push-button start. A new trim for 2018, the BRZ Sport-tech RS with six-speed manual transmission becomes an excellent choice for those wanting performance SACHS dampers, performance Brembo brakes and 17-inch gunmetal grey alloy wheels.

The other exciting addition to the 2018 BRZ lineup is the limited edition 2018 BRZ tS, representing new levels of performance and driving thrills. With only 100 units available Canada-wide, the tS – short for “tuned by STI” – comes with impressive levels of steering responsiveness, power and control, as well as sharp good looks, due in part to an exclusive STI carbon fibre rear spoiler that is manually adjustable to fine-tune rear downforce.

NO COMPROMISE. Brian Jessel BMW Service.

Genuine BMW Parts. Certified BMW Technicians.

Y1 HW

Boundary

Two locations conveniently located off Highway 1.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

N

@BrianJesselBMW

PRE-OWNED 1515 Boundary Road Vancouver, BC V5K 5C4 (604) 222-8820

Pre-Owned

www.brianjesselbmw.com Lougheed Hwy.

HWY 1

170704_DRK_Half_JulyAugust.indd 1

N

E 1st Ave.

Boundary

N

NEW CAR Brand Centre 2311 Boundary Road, Vancouver, BC V5M 4W5 (604) 222-7788

Y1 HW

HWY 1

Boundary

Lougheed Hwy.

Boundary

E 1st Ave.

N

7/5/2017 12:15:25 january / february 2018 PM 23

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Hyundai Reveals First High Performance Model for New N Line-Up: 2019 Veloster N

H

yundai today unveiled its high performance Veloster N model for the Canadian and U.S. markets at the North American International Auto Show. Hyundai’s first Canadian market N model leverages the outstanding, new-for-2019 Veloster platform, showcasing an even higher level of performance appealing to the most discerning of automotive enthusiasts.

Hyundai’s high performance N line-up was developed to make the driver’s heart beat faster whenever they’re behind the wheel. Instead of focusing on outright performance numbers, Hyundai chose to emphasize the N driver’s heartbeats per minute (BPM) over revs per minute (RPM). With fun-to-drive character as a top priority, Veloster N has been developed to deliver thrilling cornering ability coupled with everyday sports car drivability and race track capability.

Veloster N was born in Namyang, Hyundai’s global R&D center, and was thoroughly honed at its Nurburgring-based testing center in Germany. The Veloster N begins production in September 2018 in Ulsan, Korea, with availability in Canada expected near the end of 2018.

“Veloster N takes Hyundai to a new level of purchase consideration for true driving enthusiasts,” said Albert Biermann, president and head of Performance Development and High Performance Vehicle

24

january / february 2018

Division, Hyundai Motor Group. “The Veloster N is another example of Hyundai’s capabilities, creating an exciting sports car with thrilling dynamics combined with a compelling affordability equation as key to the N high-performance concept.”

The Veloster N offers a comprehensive degree of exterior, interior and mechanical differentiation even beyond the Veloster Turbo model.

Dining with Pashion

Rio Brazilian Steakhouse 2729 Barnet Highway Coquitlam, BC V3E 1K9

M

y hairdresser had her birthday a few weeks before mine, and showed me photos of showgirls in costumes and told of tales of an unlimited meat plethora. I mentioned it to a friend and he booked us a table to go check it out for my own birthday. There are two locations of Rio Brazilian Steakhouse ; Vancouver and Coquitlam and we chose Coquitlam as it was closer.

I had never been to a Brazilian steakhouse and the wait-staff was happy to explain. It’s pretty simple; it’s all you can eat. There is a salad and hot food area you help yourself to, and then staff bring multiple kinds of meats to your table and you have some if you want. The meat is all cooked on rotating rotisserie’s which you can view as you walk in. There is a double sided card set at each table for each diner and you flip it to green when you want to be served, and red when you’re finished.

You pay one set price, but drinks and dessert are extra.

We started at the salad and hot food area and I will say I wasn’t too happy. It didn’t look very appetising and tasted like it looked. The only item I liked was a hot bean dish with sausage in it.

Even this didn’t look good as it was black in colour, but tasted ok.

We sat at our table and flipped our cards to green.

We were brought chicken, sausage, pork, chicken hearts

and over five types of steak. It was a meat overload! But I will say this, it wasn’t very good meat. All of it was overcooked, chewy and tough. The chicken hearts were like rubber. The grilled pineapple was ok but no one cut the eyes out of the pineapple so you got the nasty pieces of fibre in your mouth. I didn’t like the look of their desserts and actually left to go elsewhere for dessert.

The food wasn’t great, but it is all you can eat, so eat to your heart’s content, and especially because it isn’t cheap. The staff was very friendly and the service was very good. I went on a week night, but on Friday and Saturday night there is not an empty table and there are showgirls performing.

I think to take a group of friends for a night out with a show, this restaurant is a fun place, but good dining it is NOT. The concept is more conducive to a large group so a weekend reservation is a must.

If you’re looking for a fun time with friends and family, I would recommend Rio Brazilian Steakhouse.

But if you’re looking for properly cooked steak, go somewhere else.

Column by- Pash Brar // Mobile Leasing Rep. at Auto One Leasing LP january / february 2018

25

Quick Looks

Powered by:

by - Jag Dhatt

New Ford Ranger

F

BMW M760Li x-Drive

Y

ord is on a roll with some great new products and at the Detroit Auto Show, they pulled the covers off the new Ranger, which was missing for some years. This mid-size truck will be built-Ford tough and be packed with some great driver-assist technologies to make driving easier, whether on or off-road. Production of the Ranger will begin this spring at the Michigan plant. The frame will be made of high-strength steel and power will be supplied by the proven 2.3L EcoBoost engine, that’s mated to their new 10-speed automatic transmission. This truck was always a strong seller and Ford brass is confident the trend will continue. The Ranger will come in the entry level XL, mid-level XLT and high end Lariat trim series with available Chrome and Sport appearance and FX OffRoad packages, and in SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations.

Of course, the truck will feature available SYNC3 and have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Pricing for the Ranger will be announced soon.

ou know that when BMW puts a 12-cyliinder engine under the hood of its new M760Li, it’s going to snap some heads. Matched with an 8-speed ZF transmission, which is seamless I might add, this large sedan will rocket to 100 km/h faster than you’d think. Inside the M760Li, you’ll find all the luxuries you’d expect from BMW, including massage seats, automatic everything, and of course, the new Gesture Control. For rear passengers, there’s the optional $10K Executive Lounge Tier 2 package, completing the limo like service.

The rear seats recline, are heated and cooled and also have massage function. And of course, if you’re sitting in the back, you can get some contracts signed on the work tables or if needed, watch something on the rear screens. The new M760Li is a true wolf in sheep’s clothing – there’s all the soft and quiet, but if needed, the beast can be unleashed as well. I’ve owned both a 3-series and 5-series before and maybe it’s time for me to get into the new M7-series; sadly however, my pockets aren’t deep enough yet for this luxury machine. Doesn’t hurt to dream does it?

Lamborghini Urus

Toyota Tacoma

I

f Bentley can do it, then why not Lamborghini. Here’s the new SUV by the supercar maker and it’s called the Urus. It’s got a sports car soul and the functionality typical for an SUV, thus, making it the world’s first Super Sport Utility Vehicle. The Urus has a streamlined design with multiple souls – all the surfaces are designed with a clear intention to functionality.

Some Lamnbo details and iconic shapes can be immediately recognized at first glance, such as the “Y” and the hexagon elements, the front bonnet with center peak and the cross lines on rear doors. Inside, luxurious Italian craftsmanship meets state-of-the-art technology. There’s three TFT screens and an aeronautic design that is clearly driver-oriented. Now, for the fun part – under the hood sits a V8 bi-turbo engine with a maximum power output of 650HP, the best weight-to-power ratio on the SUV market.

The engine is mated to an 8-gear automatic transmission, together with a permanent 4-wheel drive system with active torque vectoring. Of course, since you can also take your family with you, on the track or off-road, the Urus is filled with the best safety equipment and options money can buy.

26

january / february 2018

O

ne of the most growing categories in the automobile industry is the compact pickup section. After being one of the top selling compact pickup trucks in North America, Toyota has made a pinnacle name in the segment. The Toyota Tacoma was fully redesigned in 2016 and in 2017 the brand added the TRD pro trim level. For the 2018 model year, consumers can expect minor changes, as the truck is relatively new. These changes vary from a couple of new color options all the way to added safety features. The interior will be mostly untouched.

The 2018 model will integrate Toyota’s Safety Sense-P to improve the truck’s already high safety ratings. This feature adds a range of secure and protective features, such as pre-collision system, lane departure with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and lastly, a front collision mitigating system with pedestrian detection. By adding so many essential features, which used to be only found in the Tacoma’s competitors, Toyota has created an opportunity to leap ahead in a league of their own.

DRK News / Views / Stuff

FCA Announces Plans to Invest More than $1 Billion in Michigan Plant

F

CA announced two actions made possible in part by the passage of U.S. tax reform legislation late last year — an additional investment in its U.S. manufacturing operations and a special payment to recognize employees for their continued efforts toward the success of the Company.

First, the Company confirmed that it will invest more than $1 billion to modernize the Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Michigan) to produce the next-generation Ram Heavy Duty truck, which will relocate from its current production location in Saltillo, Mexico, in 2020. This investment is in addition to the announcement made in January 2017, which committed to spending a portion of $1 billion in Warren Truck Assembly to expand the Jeep® product line with the addition of the all-new Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.

The Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant will be repurposed to produce future commercial vehicles for global distribution.

To support the increased volume at the Warren facility, 2,500 new jobs will be created, above and beyond the jobs announced as part of the January 2017 announcement.

Second, the Company confirmed that it will make a special bonus payment of $2,000 to approximately 60,000 FCA hourly and salaried employees in the U.S., excluding senior leadership.

The payment, which recognizes employees for their continued

commitment to the Company’s success, will be made in the second quarter of this year, and will be in addition to any profit sharing and salaried performance bonuses that employees would otherwise be eligible to receive in 2018. The special bonus will be paid to all eligible employees of the FCA automotive and components operations in the U.S. “These announcements reflect our ongoing commitment to our U.S. manufacturing footprint and the dedicated employees who have contributed to FCA’s success,” said Sergio Marchionne, Chief Executive Officer, FCA.

Dhyan Sooch Choosing The Right Realtor Does Make A Difference

Call: 778.881.0920

Office: 604.574.0161

I

info@dhyansooch.ca

#103 - 5830 176A St. Surrey, BC V3S 4H5

january / february 2018

27

2017 Acura TLX A-Spec

2017

ACURA

TLX A-SPEC

28

january / february 2018

2017 Acura TLX A-Spec

F

rom its inception, Acura can is finished off by rolling on 19 inch multi be said to have been innovators spoke shark grey wheels and 245 section in the automotive industry. It tires. created vehicles that had soul, The interior of the A Spec is equally luxury and at their heart, a boosted with upgrades. The seats are fun aggressive sportiness. That’s what made specific to the model providing aggressive them appealing. They gave people an option bolstering and adjustments. The whole that was not boring or run of the mill when cockpit and cabin is covered by a red LED looking at what the Japanese manufacturers accent lighting treatment. had to offer. Acura even went as far to The heart and soul of the A Spec, beyond Sandeep Gill knock on the proverbial doors of Ferrari and its looks and design, is surely the 3.5L Vetch Trial Lawyer Lamborghini when it V6 churning out 290 horsepower and 267 Keystone Law Group introduced the NSX lb ft. of torque. Long live the naturally in the early 90’s to aspirated V6. The exhaust note is growly say “Look what I can combined with aggressive intake noise under do, do you have cruise control, acceleration. Those familiar with the sound produced by airbags and can you be driven the first generation Acura TL will be pleasantly surprised. every day without a squeak of Sprints to 100 KPH should be achieved in a respectable reluctance?”. It was a mid engine 5.5 to 5.7 second range. This power is routed through the supercar that could spank the best optional SH AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) that of them every day of the week and incorporates a sophisticated torque vectoring system that twice on Sunday.

Acura calls Agile Handling Assist, allowing the system to But, something happened toggle up to 100% power between one tire and another. along the way. In the midst of the Those of you who remember the Honda Prelude of the Legend, Integra, RSX and NSX, 1990’s will remember the revolutionary 4 Wheel Steering. around the mid 2000’s, Acura lost The Acura TLX A Spec brings back the system, but, its way. Fast forward to 2017, we greatly more sophisticated with PAWS (Precision All have the rebirth of the NSX, a true Wheel Steering). The result is a vehicle that provides great supercar. A genuine revival of the turn in at low and high speeds. The TLX has the ability to Acura essence. The next stage of carve the desired line with great agility and poise.

Acura’s rebirth can be seen in the In addition to the dynamic driving systems, Acura redesigned TLX A Spec. makes Acura Watch standard. Being Acura’s proprietary First, gone is the Acura Blade safety system that covers such things as lane departure, grill, replaced with a black matte blind spot monitoring and active braking for collision mesh grill. The stance of the car avoidance. The vehicle occupants also have access to feels low and muscular. The front dual infotainment screens with revamped processing facia is further redesigned with times, making the use of apps such as Apple Car Play and wide lower intakes and fog lights.

Android Auto quick and intuitive.

The rear The Acura TLX A Spec truly is a seductive option in facia receives a more the performance sedan segment. The new design and aggressive gloss black diffuser host of dynamic driveline systems make for a compelling flanked by two large chrome argument to look away from likes of BMW, Mercedes, and exhaust tips and a piano black dare I say, Alfa Romeo. That stated, being a former Integra finish deck lid. The whole package GSR owner, I am glad to see Acura return to its roots.

january / february 2018

29

2017 Acura TLX A-Spec

2017

AYkurw

TLX A-SPEC

jdoN qoN vI AYkurw hoNd ‘c AweI hY,ieh hI ikhw jw skdw hY ik ies dy Awaux nwl ieMfstrI ‘c nvInqw hI AweI hY[ies kMpnI v`loN ies qrHW dIAW vhIklW bxweIAW hn dI v`KrI Awqmw, Arwm Aqy sB qoN v`D sportI iksm dIAW hn[iehI kwrn hY ik hr koeI ienHW v`l iK`icAw jWdw hY[ aunHW v`loN gwhkW nUM ies qrHW dy bdl id`qy gey jo jpwnI kwrW bxwaux vwilAW vWg mn nUM Akwaux vwLy nhIN sn[AYkurw ny qW 90 ivAW dy Suru ‘c AYn AYs AYks nUM auqwr ky PrwrI Aqy lYmborignI dy drvwzy vI jw KVkwey[lgdw auh ies qrHW kih rhy sn ik, “ vyKo AsIN kI kr id`qw hY? kI quhwfy koL krUz kMtrol, eyArbYgz hn Aqy kI qusIN hr roz iksy rukwvt qoN ibnw c`l skdy ho?” ieh ie`k drimAwny ieMjn dI suprkwr

30

january / february 2018

sI[ ijhVI hr roz Aqy AYqvwr do vwr ibnw iksy rukwvt dy bhuq vDIAw FMg nwl c`l skdI sI[ pr bwAd ‘c 2000 ivckwr lIjYNf, ientYgrw, Awr AYs AYks Aqy AYn AYs AYks smyN ivckwr ‘c ku`J vwpr igAw jdoN ik AYkurw rsqw Bu`l geI[ 2017 q`k AYn AYs AyYks dw punr jnm hoieAw, ijhVI ik s`cmu`c ie`k supr kwr sI[ lgdw ieh sI ik ieh AYkurw dI AslIAq dw punr jnm sI[ies qoN AglI styj audoN AweI jdoN tI AYl AYks ey- spY`k dw punr inrmwx kIqw igAw[ ies kwr ‘coN sB qoN pihlW AYkurw blyf igR`l dI bdlI kIqI geI hY[ ies QW kwLI mYt mYS igR`l lweI geI hY[Aglw PySIAw ‘c cOVHIAW Aqy nIvIAW POg lweItW nUM iP`t kIqw igAw hY[ ipCly

2017 Acura TLX A-Spec

PySIAw dI id`K bhuq vDIAw glws blYk ifiPaUzr ijs dy pwisAW ‘qy do v`fy krom dy AYgzwst it`ps Aqy ipAwno blYk iPinS fY`k il`f[ies swry pYkyj ‘c 19” mltI spok Swrk gRyA vIHl Aqy 245 sYkSn twier hn[ ey spY`k dw AMdrlw ih`sw vI suDwr ky bhuq vDIAw bxwieAw igAw hY[sItW ‘c vI suDwr krky ienHW nUM bhuq vDIAw Aqy Arwmdyh bxwieAw igAw hY[swrI kwkipt Aqy kyibn ‘c AYl eI fI vwLIAW lwl BwA mwrdIAW lweItW hn[ ey spY`k dI id`K Aqy ifzwien qoN vwDU g`l ies dI 3.5 L Vetch hY ijs dI SkqI 290 hwrspwvr Aqy 267 lb-ft. torque hY[ AYgzwst not vI vDIAw bxwieAw igAw hY[ ijhVy AYkurw dI pihlI

pIVHI tI AYl dI Avwz nUM jwxdy hn auh ies dI Avwz sux ky bhuq KuS hoxgy[100 iklomItr spIf 5.5 jW 5.7 sYikMf ‘c hI ho jWdI hY[ ieh pwvr AwpSnl SH‐AWD Bwv supr hYNfilMg Awl vIHl fRweIv rwhIN imldI hY[ ies nUM AYkurw vwLy Agile Handling Assist, AwKdy hn ijhVI ie`k twier qoN dUjy twier ivckwr 100% pwvr phuMcwauNdI hY[quhwfy ‘coN auh, ijnHW nUM 1990 vIAW dI hONfw pRilaUf dw cyqw hovygw nUM zrUr 4 vIHl fRweIv dw pqw hovygw ik aus dw 4 vIHl styAirMg ikMnw kmwl dw sI[ hux Acura TLX A‐Spec ny auhI isstm vwps ilAWdw hY[pr ies ‘c vI PAWS (Precision All‐Wheel Steering) rwhIN vDyry suDwr kIqy hn[ tI AYl AYks ‘c ieh smr`Qw hY ik ieh quhwfI ie`Cw nUM AwpxI SkqI Aqy smr`Qw nwl pUrI kr skdI hY[ ies vDIAw qy bdly hoey fRweIivMg isstm qoN ibnw AYkurw dI stYNfrf AYkurw vwc hY[ ikauN ik AYkurw ny sur`iKAw v`l Kws iDAwn id`qw hY ies leI ies nwL lyn ifpwrcr, blweINf spwt Aqy Acwnk t`kr hox qoN pihlW hI bryk l`gx dw pRbMD hY[ ies ‘c svwrW leI leI dohry ienPotynmYNt skrIn dw pRbMD vI hY[ ies ‘c AYps ijvyN ik AYpl kwr plyA Aqy AYnfrOief Awto kuie`k dI vI shUlq hY[ ij`QoN q`k pRdrSn dI g`l hY syfwn sYgmYNt ‘coN Acura TLX A‐Spec vwikAw hI vDIAw cox hY[jd ies dy nvyN ifzwien v`l vyKdy hW, qW bI AYm fbilaU, mrsIfz mYN qW ieh vI kih skdw hW ik AlPw romIE v`l vI iDAwn nhIN jWdw[ieMtYgrw jI AYs Awr dw mwlk irhw hox krky mYnUM ieh vyK ky KuSI ho rhI hY ik AYkurw muV AwpxI buinAwd ‘qy Aw geI hY[

january / february 2018

31

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Ford Introduces First Ever F-150 Diesel. You’re Welcome!!!

F

ull-size diesel truck fans have reason to celebrate this year as Ford – North America’s truck sales leader – delivers the first-ever F-150 Power Stroke diesel with a targeted EPA-estimated 30 mpg highway rating, a best-in-class 11,400 pounds of towing capacity and 2,020 pounds of payload capacity, plus best-in-class diesel 250 horsepower and 440 lb.-ft. of torque.

“For every truck owner who wants strong fuel economy while they tow and haul, we offer a new 3.0-litre Power Stroke® V6 engine that dreams are made of,” said Dave Filipe, vice president global powertrain engineering. “The more you tow and the longer you haul, the more you’ll appreciate its class-leading towing and payload capacity and how efficient it is at the pump.”

This all-new 3.0-litre Power Stroke diesel now makes for six engine choices for F-150 customers.

32

january / february 2018

F-150’s all-new Power Stroke diesel features commercial-grade design The highly anticipated F-150 Power Stroke diesel shares proven commercial-grade technology with F-Series Super Duty’s larger 6.7-litre Power Stroke – America’s most powerful, capable heavyduty pickup truck ever.

The very same Ford powertrain team behind the 6.7-litre Power Stroke for Super Duty trucks since 2011 designed and engineered this all-new 3.0-litre Power Stroke V6 diesel engine to the specific needs of North American F-150 customers who tow and haul frequently.

Peak torque comes at just 1,750 rpm with strong torque delivery continuing throughout the rpm range, which is ideal for towing or hauling heavy loads over long distances.

This new V6 diesel features the same compacted-graphite iron block material construction and forged-steel crank used in the 2.7-litre EcoBoost® engine for added strength and durability along with reduced weight.

For greater responsiveness and reduced turbo lag, the Ford truck team chose a high-efficiency variable-geometry turbocharger. A common-rail fuel injection system precisely optimizes performance and fuel efficiency, while a high-pressure 29,000 pounds per square inch injection calibration enables smoother, quieter operation with reduced emissions.

Dual fuel filters are added for improved break-in, while a castaluminum oil pan and two-stage oil pump mean reduced parasitic loss and improved fuel efficiency.

Engineered to tow under grueling conditions

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Engineering the most efficient F-150 towing machine ever is enabled by F-150’s high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body, introduced in 2015. This revolutionary construction lightened the load by 700 pounds, allowing engineers to invest in additional technologies to further improve towing and payload capability, as well as greater fuel economy, even when towing. For 2018, stronger axles coupled with the fully boxed, high-strength steel frame add further robustness.

The Ford truck team paid particular attention to extreme driving conditions when engineering the all-new 3.0-litre Power Stroke diesel, which features a premium mechanical engine-driven fan

B u i l t

F o r

and dual radiator shutters for improved high temperature, high-altitude performance – a key advantage versus the electric cooling fans used by competitors.

“We know that competing diesels with electric cooling fans have to dial back on power under extreme heat and altitude, so we decided on a viscous-controlled mechanical fan that has the capacity to move much more air across the radiator and intercooler in extreme conditions,” said David Ives, Ford diesel engine technical specialist. “This gives F-150 Power Stroke owners more power and more passing capability in harsh conditions.”

In more moderate driving and towing conditions, the F-150 engine control system backs off the fan load through a viscous coupler, closing down the two radiator shutters for improved aerodynamic efficiency and reduced parasitic engine loss.

Calibrated specifically for the all-new 3.0-litre Power Stroke diesel’s low-end power and torque curves, a standard SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission maximizes shift points and gear ratios to optimize power, low-rpm torque and efficiency. This segment-exclusive transmission can non-sequentially select the right gear ratio based on need – for best-in-class performance. To help reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions during city driving, Auto Start-Stop also comes standard.

T h e

L o n g

R i d e

SERV ING T HE W E ST COA ST Pacif ic Chartered Advisors LLP PROV I D I NG TA X A DV I SO RY S E RV I C E S

w w w. p a c i f i c a cco u n t i n g. c a

# west co a st st r o n g

january / february 2018

33

2018 Kia Stinger GT

2018

KIA

Stinger GT T

he truth be known, two laps around a AWD model. (Sneaky, but effective.) racetrack represents nowhere near enough First things first: The Kia Stinger GT is not a track car. time behind the wheel to properly assess a It’s not even a sports sedan, really. By their own definition, new vehicle. Now, here’s the exception to the design and engineering teams refer to the Stinger as a this particular rule: unless the racetrack is grand touring machine in the classic sense: a car that can the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife, the very ribbon of comfortably transport five people across the continent at tarmac used by manufacturers to develop, refine and assess elevated speeds. performance vehicles of all stripes.

The fact that it’s not a track car quickly becomes apparent For the launch of a near production-perfect version of on the Ring, a place that tends to reveal weaknesses very the 2018 Kia Stinger GT last summer, the braintrust at the quickly. But “weaknesses” is really too strong a word. surging South Korean automaker decided that two torturous The twin-turbocharged 3.3L V-6 under the sculpted laps of the Ring would suffice. There would be no road drive hood generates 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque and there would be no time to waste. As the test pilots wait from 1300-4500 rpm. The engine is responsive out of the impatiently for their time in one of six examples brought out slower corners and only feels slightly underpowered on the to play, they witness a small team of technicians do nothing steeper inclines, which are profoundly long at this circuit. more than check tire pressures and clean off windscreens.

The sprint to 100 km/h takes just under five seconds, a For this reason alone, the Stinger GT makes a profound credible number for a GT car from any brand. Top speed is first impression before the drive even starts. It’s not often rated at 270 km/h; we see 250 km/h on the long finishing that a manufacturer while host a track drive without having Döttinger Höhe straight, a few corners before the original spare parts and, yes, spare cars ready and waiting in case pit lane. something goes amiss. But there are no spares in sight— The track has countless bumps and curbs, as well as just these same six cars, completing one highsome diabolical jumps and compressions. The speed lap of the 20.81-km track, making a suspension system, one of the strengths of the Mark Hacking quick pit stop to change drivers, and then Stinger GT, does an incredible job of dealing continuing along their merry way. (Sidebar: with all the irregularities in the paved surface.

A big percentage of the engineering development of the In sport mode, the car feels a bit jittery; in comfort mode, Stinger GT has taken place at the Nürburgring, where it’s a bit floaty. The pace drivers recommend comfort mode parent company Hyundai has a dedicated test centre.) around the Ring, but either represents a workable solution.

As the track experience is of the lead-follow variety, The steering is consistent, precise and nicely weighted, two of the six cars are piloted by professional pacesetters. if perhaps light. The all-wheel drive system only shuttles a This is the one concession made by the organizers to maximum of 50 percent of the torque to the front wheels, so ensure things don’t fly off the trails. But it’s a reasonable the car maintains a rear-biased set in nearly all conditions. concession: Some of the drivers on this day had never seen Standard torque vectoring helps the Stinger GT bend the track before, let alone sample it, and experts suggest that towards the corners with more conviction.

100 laps are necessary before the secrets of the Ring reveal The weaknesses of the car, as mentioned earlier, need themselves. to be taken with a grain (or two) of salt. The brakes felt the There are two different versions of the Stinger GT worse for wear right from the get-go. But this is completely on this day—the rear-wheel drive sort and the all-wheel understandable given the nature of the track, the relative drive model. We’re directed to sample both, but as the inexperience of many of the drivers and the fact that no Kia AWD model is the only one we’ll receive in Canada, I go technicians are swapping out brake pads during pit stops. against the grain. In the confusion of driver changes and The 8-speed automatic transmission is an easier target—it tire pressure checks and dead bug removal, I vault ahead may be suitable for grand touring, but it’s not quick enough of another driver and ensure that both of my laps are in the for track duty, not by a long shot.

34

january / february 2018

2018 Kia Stinger GT

In the final analysis, the 2018 Kia Stinger GT is clearly a well-engineered car. With its long hood, long wheelbase, short overhangs and fastback silhouette, it also looks the part of the European GT. If the Kia engineers were to install a racier transmission, higher-powered engine and more robust brakes, they could have a genuine track weapon on their hands. (There’s no doubt that the platform could handle the extra performance.)

But this is not the raison d’être of the car. Although the Kia engineers have been tweaking the car around the Ring, there are no plans to release lap times. There’s no need: The Stinger GT is, as its name suggests, a grand tourer in the classic sense. But with a modern, South Korean twist…

january / february 2018

35

2018 Kia Stinger GT

2018

kIAw

Stinger GT

ieh prKI hoeI s`cI g`l hY ik rys tRYk duAwly isrP do gyVHy k`Fxy iksy vI vhIkl nMU prKx leI loVINdy smyN dy nyVy qyVy vI nhIN Aqy ies qrHW iksy vhIkl nMU prKxw l`gBg AsMBv hI hY[ pr ieh ivcwrDwrw isrP qW hI glq swbq ho skdI hY jykr aus vhIkl nMU prKx leI mShUr nUrbRgirMg nOrfSlIP rys tRYk dI vrqoN kIqI jwvy[ ieh auhI rys tRYk hY ijs dI vrqoN kwr inrmwqw cotI dIAW v`K v`K pRPwrmYNs kwrW tYst krky aunHW ‘c hox vwLy loVINdy suDwr krdy hn[ ipCly swl grmIAW dI ru`qy, 2018 Kia sitMgr jI tI dw ‘inrmwx krn leI l`gBg iqAwr vrzn’ nMU d`KxI korIAn kwr auqpwdn kMpnI dy idmwg smJy jWdy ieMjnIArW ny PYslw kIqw ik ies kwr nMU prKx leI ies nMU pUrI iK`c ky irMg dy duAwly isrP do c`kr clwauxw hI kwPI hovygw[ ies nMU prKx leI sVk ‘qy clw ky nhIN vyiKAw jwvygw Aqy ies qrHW koeI smW brbwd krn dI zrUrq vI nhIN hY[ jo tYst pwielt bVI bysbrI nwL prKy jwx vwLy 6 mwflW dw ieMqzwr kr rhy sn, aunHW ny vyiKAw ik tYknISAnW dI ie`k CotI ijhI tIm SISy swP krn Aqy twierW ‘c hvw cY`k krn dy bjwey hor ku`J vI nhIN kr rhy[ isrP ies kwrn krky hI sitMgr jI tI fRweIvr dy kwr nMU stwrt krn qoN pihlW hI aus ‘qy bhuq vDIAw Aqy cikR`q krn vwLw pRBwv pw lYNdI hY[ jdoN koeI vI kwr inrmwqw tRYk fRweIv krn leI tYst fRweIvrW nMU s`dw Byjdy hn qW ibnw spyAr pwrtW Aqy spyAr kwrW (jW spyAr kwrW, jykr iksy kwrn ienHW dI loV pY jwvy) dy bhuq G`t ies qrHW kIqw jWdw hY[ pr ie`Qy koeI vI spyAr pwrt dur dur q`k nzr nhIN AwauNdw – isrP tYst krn vwLIAW 6 kwrW, jo ik 20.81 iklomItr dy Pwsly vwLI lYp hweI spIf ‘qy clw ky pUrI kIqI jwvygI Aqy iPr b`s Cotw ijhw ip`t stwp, fRweIvr bdlx leI, Aqy iPr auh fRweIvr dujI lYp pUrI krygw[ (sitMgr jI tI dw bhuq

36

january / february 2018

izAwdw qknIkI kMm nUrbRgirMg ‘c purw kIqw igAw hY Aqy ie`Qy hI ies dI mUl kMpnI hONfeI dw kwrW tYst krn leI smRRipq sYNtr hY[) ijvyN ik quhwnMU pqw hI hY ik tRYk dw qzrbw lIf Aqy POlo krn dw huMdw hY ies leI Cy kwrW ‘coN do kwrW mwihr pySyvr fRweIvrW vloN A`gy A`gy clweIAW geIAW [ ies qrHW AwXojkW vloN isrP Kws qOr ‘qy ies leI kIqw igAw qW jo swrw ku`J shI slwmq ho sky[ Aqy ieh krnw iblkul shI PYslw sI ikauNik keI fRweIvrW ny A`j qoN pihlW kdy rys tRYk ‘qy g`fI clwauxI qW dUr vyiKAw vI nhIN sI, Aqy mwihrW dw kihxw hY ik tRYk ‘qy g`fI clwaux dy Byd jwnx leI G`to G`t 100 lYpW pUrIAW krnIAW zrUrI hn[ hux sitMgr jI tI dy do Al`g Al`g mwfl hn – rIAr vHIl fRweIv mwfl Aqy Awl-vHIl fRweIv mwfl[ swnMU dovyN hI mwfl tYst krn dI ihdwieq id`qI geI hY, pr ikauNik knyfw ‘c isrP AWD mwfl hI auplbD hovygw ies leI mYN ies ihdwieq nMU nw mMnx dw mn bxw ilAw hY[ fRweIvr bdlx, twierW ‘c hvw cY`k krn Aqy SISy qoN m`Cr vgYrw swP krn dy rOly r`py dw Pwiedw lY ky mY ie`k fRweIvr qoN mUhry ho igAw qW ik mYN ieh XkInI bxw skW ik mYN dono lYpW hI AWD mwfl kwr ‘c pUrIAW kr skW[ (sI qW QoVHI ijhI beImwnI pr myrI qrkIb kMm kr geI) hux pihlW kMm dI g`l krdy hW – Kia sitMgr jI tI tRYk kwr nhIN hY[ ieh qW sports sfYn vI nhIN hY[ ies dI fIzweIinMg Aqy ieMjnIAirMg tIm dy Kud kihx Anuswr sitMgr ie`k klwisk gRYNf tUirMg mSIn hY, Aqy ieh auh kwr hY jo qyz rPqwr ‘qy cldy hoey pMj lokW nMU bVy hI Awrwm nwL mhWdIp dy dUjy pwsy phuMcw skdI hY [ ieh q`Q ik ieh tRYk kwr nhIN hY, tRYk ‘qy ij`Qy kwrW dIAW kmzorIAW bhuq jldI swhmxy Aw jWdIAW hn, au`Qy ieh bhuq hI jldI pqw l`g jWdw hY[ pr Asl ‘c ie`Qy ‘kmzorIAW’ Sbd bhuq hI v`fw Sbd hY[

2018 Kia Stinger GT

iksy hsInw dy ijsm vWg KUbsUrq qrwSI hoeI ies kwr ‘c 365 hwrs pwvr dI qwkq vwLw 3.3L V-6 ieMjx hY jo ik 1300-1450 RPM ‘qy 376 lb-ft of torque pYdw krn dyy Xog hY[ moV muVn vyly hOlI hoeI spIf nMU jdoN vDwauNdy ho qW ieMjx bhuq hI vDIAw huMgwrw idMdw hY, hW jdoN iq`KI cVHweI cVHdy ho qW QoVHI ijhI pwvr zrUr G`t lgdI hY[ 100 iklomItr dI rPqwr q`k ieh 5 sikMt qoN G`t smyN ‘c phuMc jWdI hY, jo ik iksy vI jI tI kwr leI bhuq hI vDIAw smW hY[ ies dI v`D qoN v`D rPqwr 270 km/h d`sI geI hY pr ip`t stwp qoN QoVHw ijhw pihlW fOitMgr hOhy dy is`Dy pwsy vwLy tRYk ‘qy AsIN ies dI spIf 250 km/h dI vyKI [ ies rwh ‘c bhuq swry AiV`ky Aqy moV GyV sn[ Stinger GT dw sspYNSn isstm ies dI ie`k qwkq Aqy Kws ivSySqw hox krky aus ny ies tRYk dy hr au`cy nIvyN ih`sy dIAW rukwvtW dw vI ft ky mukwblw kIqw[ jdoN ies dw sport mof huMdw hy qW ieh QoVHI kwhl krdI mihsUs krdI hY[ pr kMPort mof ‘c ieh hlkI PulkI jwpdI hY[ qyzI nwL c`lx vwLy fRweIvr irMg dy duAwly kMPort mof nUM hI qrjIh dyx nUM kihMdy hn[ pr dovyN TIk hI kMm krdy hn[ styirMg iekswr Aqy TIk Bwr vwLw hY jwxI ik hlkw ijhw lgdw hY[ Awl vIHl fRweIv isstm ‘c Agly phIAW nUM isrP 50 pRqISq tork hI phuMcwauNdI hY[ ies leI kwr hr hwlq ‘c ipCly sMquln nUM kwiem r`KdI hY[ stYNfrf tork moVW ‘qy sitMgr jI tI nUM sMquln ‘c r`Kx dI mdd krdI hY[ jy kwr dIAW ku`J kmzorIAW vI hn qW aunHW dw kOVw Gu`t Br lYx ‘c koeI nukswn nhIN[ ies dIAW bRykW ‘qy QoVHw kMm krn dI loV jwpdI hY[ pr jy trYk dI hwlq dI jwxkwrI hovy qW ieh g`l smJx qoN bwhr nhIN ikauN ik bhuq swry fRweIvrW dw trYk dw qzrbw nw hoxw Aqy ie`k g`l ieh ik nw hI koeI kIAw dy kwr imsqrI ip`t stwp smyN bRyk pYf dI bdlI krdy hn[ 8-spIf AwtomYitk tRWsimSn vDIAw hY[ ieh gRYNf tUirMg krn leI vDIAw ho skdI hY[ pr tRYk leI ieh bhuq qyzI vwLI nhIN[ ies dy ivSlySx dy swr ‘c ieh ikhw jw skdw hY ik 2018 Kia Stinger GT ie`k bhuq cMgI qrHW bxweI geI kwr hY[ ies dw lMbw hu`f, lMbw vIHlbys, Coty EvrhYNgz qy Fastback Silhouette nwL ieh XUrpIAn jI tI dw ih`sw hI lgdI hY[ jy ikDry ies dy ieMjnIAr ies ‘c qyz tRWsimSn , vDyry SkqI vwLw ieMjx Aqy robst brykW lw idMdy qW ieh trYk vwLI vI bhuq hI vDIAw kwr bx jwxI sI[ (pr ies ‘c vI koeI S`k nhIN ik ies dw plYtPwrm vDIAw prdrSn kr skdw hY)[

pr kwr dI vDIAw hox dw ieh hI kwrn nhIN[kIAw dy ieMjnIArW nUM ies nUM irMg Xog bxwaux leI vI, ies qrHW krn dI loV nhIN[ ijs qrHW ies dw nWA hY sitMgr jI tI , aus qrHW hI ieh bhuq vDIAw tUrr klwisk ADwr vwLI kwr hY[ pr ies ‘c QoVHw korIAn rMg zrur hY[

january / february 2018

37

DRK News / Views / Stuff

Ford Introduces All-New Edge ST

F

ord begins introducing the coveted ST brand to its SUV lineup with the unveiling of the all-new Edge ST today, building on its best-ever SUV sales year in the U.S and SUV best-selling brand in Canada.

The all-new Edge ST – Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by the Ford Performance team – features the most powerful V6 engine available in its class with a specially tuned 2.7-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® engine pumping out 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.

It’s also outfitted for dynamic handling with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, an available performance brake package, and ST-tuned sport suspension.

“Edge ST puts a new animal on the road – a performance SUV with a track mentality,” said Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing. “From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive.”

A new Sport Mode allows Edge ST drivers to experience more aggressive throttle response and shifting patterns that hold gears near redline through cornering maneuvers, sharper engine braking, and a more resonant exhaust tone. Drivers can also manually shift

using the steering wheel-mounted SelectShift® paddle shifters while firmly positioned in unique Edge ST seating with additional bolstering.

To complement its performance abilities, Edge ST features new front and rear styling, a wide mesh grille for optimal cooling, deep side skirts and dual-exhaust outlets. Unique 21-inch wheels are available and interior design cues on the steering wheel, seat backs and scuff plates provide a subtle reminder that this five-passenger SUV is something special.

Kia Motors Reveals All-Electric Concept Car at CES 2018 Kia Motors will unveil a new all-electric concept car and present the brand’s vision for future mobility at the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Combining Kia’s design strengths with a highly efficient batteryelectric powertrain, the new concept represents the next step in the brand’s ongoing journey to electrification. The concept also features a neverseen-before human-machine interface (HMI) and an advanced new ‘motion graphic’ lighting system, previewing the potential for these technologies for market introduction in coming years.

Alongside Kia’s new concept, the brand will reveal a range of new in-car features and innovations at CES 2018. Kia’s interactive ‘Beyond Autonomous Driving’ exhibits combine existing and future technologies to outline the company’s plans for vehicle autonomy and mobility, supported by the introduction of upcoming 38

january / february 2018

autonomous drive technologies. Kia will present three interactive, cockpit-style exhibits designed to show how the company will incorporate new technologies to enhance communication and interaction between occupants and vehicles. These include new advanced driver assistance technologies and pioneering HMI functions, as well as the world’s first in-car 5G connection.

“Virtual reality, selfdriving cars, and full vehicle connectivity were all once considered technologies of the distant future. As they rapidly become a reality, Kia is exploring how to adapt these new technologies for its customers. At CES we will share our strategy and vision for future mobility, and exhibit a range of advanced technologies that our customers can look forward to,” said Dr. Woong-cheol Yang, Vice Chairman and Head of Hyundai-Kia R&D Center.

january / february 2018

39

Mini Clubman JCW

Mini

ClubmaNJCW R

ecent analysis of the automotive marketplace shows cars (especially small ones) falling out of favour with consumers, who continue to gravitate toward crossovers and SUVs. So where does that leave a company like Mini which, if it were to build anything but small vehicles, would defy the very name its cars have worn since the 1950s?

Well, you don’t stop building small cars, exactly; you build some that are less small.

Mini started doing just that in 2016 with the launch of its second-generation Cooper Clubman, which saw this little wagon grow in every direction from its previous incarnation. Worried that size alone wouldn’t be enough, the company went further by adding all-wheel drive as an option in 2017 and making it standard in 2018.

There are many Mini fans who don’t like the direction the brand is going in upsizing its vehicles, but an automaker has to market to the masses in order to stay profitable, and right now the masses really like SUVs and crossovers. The idea behind adding the ALL4 AWD system here is that the promise of fourseason traction turns the Clubman into something closer to the Countryman, but announces its crossover-ness less overtly than that much bulkier model.

This newer, larger Clubman houses a more practical interior than the old car. There are now four doors and a rear seat at least as roomy as a typical subcompact’s, making this a perfectly sensible way to transport four adults.

Mini stuck with a pair of side-hinged cargo doors as another way to continue to distinguish Clubman from Countryman. Hydraulic struts push them open once unlatched to reveal a good-sized trunk that can be expanded with rear seats that fold nearly flat. A week’s worth of cottage-going gear for two people fit nicely.

Our only complaint about those rear doors is that they create a blind spot in the middle of what would already be a small rear window in a car with a regular tailgate.

Our test vehicle came in high-performance John Cooper Works, or JCW, trim, which takes the Cooper S Clubman’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and amps it up to 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. In past Minis we’ve reviewed, particularly those with the last-generation’s 1.6L turbo engine, the JCW treatment has resulted in a frenetic driving feel that was a fine fit with the company’s reputation as a maker of fun-loving little hatchbacks.

But though the new 2.0L delivers its extra power more smoothly, the Clubman’s larger body and the addition of AWD mean more mass to move and less power left over for zippy acceleration. This car is still quick and the engine’s still eager to rev, but it all happens in a more mature (and less interesting) way.

40

january / february 2018

Mini Clubman JCW

a surprising alternative here: at 201 hp, it may not It says something about how grown-up the new have as much power, but it’s lighter and feels about Clubman feels that our test car’s optional eightspeed automatic transmission barely felt out of as quick as the Clubman JCW and boasts a genuinely fun-to-drive feel that’s new for the Korean brand. place. It manages the engine’s power very well, with performance that can be tailored by toggling the car At the other end of the spectrum, Ford’s Focus ST comes with FWD and 252 hp for less than $34,000, into sport or sport-plus modes for more immediate while the more serious RS boasts AWD and 350 hp throttle response, and transmission programming that delays upshifts for more spirited acceleration. for nearly $60,000.

Our Clubman JCW tester’s $37,300 starting price The Clubman’s extra weight doesn’t completely eliminate the car’s sharp handling. Adding AWD may excludes a number of popular features, like heated Chris Chase front seats and automatic climate control. Adding have made the car heavier, but that weight is positioned Accredited AJAC Journalist down around wheel-hub level and contributes to a low those and a raft of other extras drove the price to about $45,000, a premium price for a brand that centre of gravity. This is still a fun car to toss around: has never made apologies for wanting to be seen as an upscale You have to push pretty hard to feel the effect of the added heft alternative to more mainstream small cars. on the car’s cornering ability. Against small-crossover-like fuel The difference now is that the Clubman is a legitimately consumption estimates of 11.4 L/100 km in city driving and 7.8 on the highway, our test car averaged a surprisingly thrifty 6.8 L/100 practical car, where its predecessor was a pretender in that regard.

We’d stop short of calling it a strong value, even factoring in the km on a relaxed road trip that covered about 1,500 km.

It’s never been easy to justify Mini’s premium pricing, and even new design’s added refinement, but if your idea of value is an entertaining drive and the all-season confidence that AWD brings with its larger interior the Clubman can’t boast any more space to a compact car, you won’t find much like the Clubman anywhere or practicality than any number of other compact hatchbacks. For else. example, the Hyundai Elantra GT Sport ($27,000 to $30,500) is

january / february 2018

41

Mini Clubman JCW

42

january / february 2018

Mini Clubman JCW

imMnI

ClubmaNJCW Awtomoitv dunIAw dy hwl ‘c kIqy gey ivSlySx qoN pqw lgdw hY ik kwrW (Kws krky CotIAW kwrW) dy KRIddwrW dI igxqI hux bhuq Gt geI hY Aqy gwhk hux lgwqwr kRwsEvr Aqy SUVs dI KRId krn v`l Jukdy jw rhy hn[ ies qrHW dI sUrq ‘c imMnI vrgI kMpnI dw kI bxygw, jykr ieh kMpnI Coty vhIkl nw bxwvy qW auh nWA jo 1950 qoN ienHW kwrW dI Swn hY, aus nwL byienswPI hovygI[ KYr qusIN CotIAW kwrW bxwauxIAW ib`lkul qW bMd nhIN kr skdy; pr auh kwrW bxwE jo QoVHIAW G`t CotIAW hox[ imMnI ny 2016 ‘c dUjI pIVHI dI kUpr kl`bmYn bxw ky iblku`l ies qrHW hI kIqw[ ieh CotI vYgn purwxy mwfl dy mukwbly hr pwisEN vDweI geI hY[ies g`l dw iPkr krdy hoey ik isrP sweIz vDwauxw hI kwPI nhIN hovygw, kMpnI ny ies vwDy nMU jwrI r`Kdy hoey 2017 mwflW ‘c Awl vHIl fRweIv ie`k AwpSn vjoN Aqy 2018 ‘c stYNfrf kr dyx nMU vI joV id`qw hY[ imMnI dy keI cwhux vwLy ies qrHW dy vI hn jo imMnI dy Awpxy vhIklW nMU A`psweIz krn dy PYsly qoN nwKuS hn, pr kwrW bxwaux vwLIAW kMpnIAW nMU aus qrHW dIAW kwrW hI bxwaux nwL ivqI lwB hovygw ijs dI mwrkIt ‘c izAwdw mMg hovy Aqy hux bhuq izAwdw KRIddwr kRwsEvr Aqy SUV KRIdx nMU hI pihl idMdy hn[ ies ‘c ALL4 AWD isstm joVn ip`Cy ieh iKAwl kMm krdw hY ik ies dI pkV sVk ‘qy swry cwr sIzn hI bhuq vDIAw rhy Aqy ies dy nwL hI ibnw bhuq izAwdw BwrI Brkm l`gx dy ieh kl`bmYn nMU kMtrImYn dy nzdIk ilAw KVHI krdw hY [ ies nvIN Aqy v`fI kl`bmYn ‘c purwxI kwr dy mukwbly izAwdw vrqx Xog QW hY[ hux ies ‘c cwr drvwzy hn Aqy ip`Cy Awm sb kMpYkt kwr ijMnI QW vwLI ie`k sIt[ ies ‘c hux Arwm nwL cwr svwrIAW bih skdIAW hn[ kl`bmYn dI pCwx kMtrImYn qoN Al`g r`Kx leI imMnI ny sweIf ihMjW vwLw kwrgo for hI vrqxw jwrI r`iKAw hY[ ie`k vwr jdoN lYc KolHI jwvy qW hweIfROilk stR`ts ienHW nMU D`k ky KolH idMdy hn[ ies dw tRMk kwPI Ku`lHw hY Aqy jykr ipClIAW sItW nMU Polf kr idE qW ieh QW hor vI vD jWdI hY ikauNik ies dIAW sItW lgBg iblkul PlYt hI Polf ho jWdIAW hn[ ie`k hPqy leI kwtyj jwx vwsqy do lokW dw smwn ies ‘c Awrwm nwL r`iKAw jw skdw hY[ ipCly forW bwry jo swfI isrP ie`k hI iSkwieq hY auh ieh hY ik ieh ie`k blweINf spOt bxw idMdy hn jo ik pihlW hI ie`k Awm CotI kwr dy tylgyt dy SISy nwloN vI Cotw SISw hY[ swfI tYst vhIkl vDIAw prPwrmYNs dyx vwLI sI ijhVI cwr slMfr vwLI 2.0L Turbocharged sI, ies dI qwkq 228 hwrs pwvr Aqy 258 lb-ft of Torque sI[ pihlIAW tYst kIqIAW jWdIAW imMnIz ‘c 1.6L Turbo Engine JCW Treatment vwLIAW Aqy aunHW dI clweI bhuq hI Arwmdwiek qy kSt rihq huMdI sI[ ies ‘c bhuq mnpsMd hYcbYks vI sn[ ies leI auh kMpnI dI Pn- livMg CotIAW hYcbYks auqpwd krn vwLI swK dI shI qsvIr pyS krdIAW sn[

pr hux BwvyN nvIN 2.0L sihjy hI izAwdw pwvr idMdI hY pr kl`bmYn dI v`fI bwfI Aqy Awl vIHl fRweIv dw ArQ hY ik ies nMU ie`k dm qyz Bjwaux leI G`t qwkq bcdI hY[ pr kwr CyqI spIf PVn vwLy ieMjx vwLI hY[ pr ieh sB ku`J bhuq vDIAw pr izAwdw isAwxp (Aqy G`t idlcspI) nwL huMdw hY[ swfI tYst kwr nUM clw ky ies qrHW mihsUs huMdw hY ik kl`bmYn ikMnI A`gy phuMc geI hY Aqy iesdw 8 spIf AwtomYitk tRWsimSn mwmUlI ijhw hI Eprw mihsUs hoieAw[ ieh bhuq vDIAw FMg nwL ieMjx nUM kMtrol krdI hY Aqy jdoN sport jW sport pl`s mof ‘c jwxw huMdw hY qW ieh bhuq vDIAw FMg nwL lY jWdI hY[ ies dw tRWsimSn pRogrwimMg ijhVw A`piSPt ‘c dyrI krdw hY aus nwL spIf ‘c bhuq vDIAw qyzI AwauNdI hY[ kl`bmYn dw Bwr v`D hox nwl vI ies dI Swrp hYNfilMg ‘c koeI Prk nhIN pYNdw[ pr ies ‘c Awl vIHl fRweIv dw vwDw krn nwL ies dw Bwr qW zrUr viDAw hY pr ieh Bwr twierW Aqy h`b dy duAwly Q`ly hox krky ieh hor vI jMm ky cldI hY[ smu`cy qOr ‘qy ieh ie`k AnMd dyx vwLI kwr hY[ pr quhwnUM ies dI moV k`tx dI Xogqw vDwaux leI vDweI geI aucweI prKx leI kwPI zoor lwauxw pYNdw hY[ CotI krOsEvr vrgI kwr dI qyl Kpq dI AOsq jo Sihr ‘c 11.4 L/100 km Aqy hweIvyA ‘qy 7.8 huMdI hY aus dy mukwbly swfI tYst kwr dI ieh AOsq hYrwnIjnk G`t sI jo AsIN 1500 iklomItr dw pYNfw qYA kIqw aus dOrwn ies dI Kpq 6.8 L/100 km rhI [ imMnI dI pRImIAm kImq nUM shI d`sxw kdy vI sOKw nhIN irhw pr BwvyN kl`bmYn ‘c AMdr vwLI jgHw v`fI vI hY pr ieh horW nwLoN vDIAw hox dI PVH nhIN mwr skdI[ imswl vjoN Hyundai Elantra GT Sport dI kImq 27,00 fwlr qoN 30,000 fwlr q`k hY jo ie`k TIk bdl hY[ jdoN hwrspwvr 201 hY jo ieMnI nhIN[ pr ieh hlkI hY Aqy ieMnI qyz lgdI hY ijMnI ik Clubman JCW Aqy ies nUM ies g`l dw vI mwx hY ik ieh clw ky AnMd imldw hYy[ pr jy dUjy pwsy Jwq mwrIey qw Porf dI Focus ST ijhVI FWD ‘c AwauNdI hY qy ijsdI hwrspwvr 252 hY auh 34,000 qoN vI G`t dI hY[ jdoN ik hor bRWf ijvyN Awr AYs dy AWD jo 350 hp vwLI hY auh 60,000 fwlr dy nyVy qyVy hY[ swfy v`loN tYst kIqI geI Clubman JCW dI SurUAwqI kImq 37,000 fwlr hY jd ik ies ‘c hItf PRMt sItW Aqy AwtomYitk klweImyt kMtrol vrgy bhuqy PIcr Swml nhIN[ jy sB joV ley jwx qW ies dI kImq 45,000 fwlr dy krIb phuMc jWdI hY[ ieh auh kImq hY ijs sbMDI kdy vI inrmwqwvW v`loN v`D hox dw pCqwvw nhIN kIqw igAw[ pr g`l ies Prk dI hY ik kl`bmYn Asl ‘c ie`k pRYktIkl kwr hY[ jdoN ik ies qoN pihlI ies qrHW dI hox dw bhwnw hI krdI sI[ AsIN ies nUM SkqISwlI guxW vwLI kihx qoN sMkoc krWgy pr jy qusIN ie`k kMpYkt kwr ‘c AWD cwhuMdy ho qW quhwnUM Clubman vrgI hor ikqy nhIN imlygI[ january / february 2018

43

DRK Gadgets & Gears

Fitbit Aria Wireless Smart Scale

HereO Watch

After the Xmas Holiday Season, everyone become more aware of their weight. Pair this smart scale up with your Fitbit where the wireless connectivity links your scale to an online graph and mobile app to help you track your progress and manage your health plans.

Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet

JAG D H AT T ’S

JA N / F E B 2018

We know that any tablet in the hands of young kids can spell disaster and broken/damaged screens. Fire offers a fullfeatured tablet with a 7” IPS display. Not only does it have tonnes of features, but comes in a kid-proof case.

If you need to keep tabs on your toddlers and young kids, this is for you. HereO is the world’s smallest GPS tracking device that looks like a classical kid’s watch, but can be linked to your smartphone, allowing you to track your child all the time. It’s also splash proof and has a panic feature.

Duhan Motorcycle Air-Bag Vest

Levitation Bionic Knee Brace

This is the world’s first bionic knee brace which helps for physical activities by supporting your muscles and joints.

Levitation enables your injured knee to do that much extra on a daily basis by using a spring design. It can also help in knee rehabilitation.

44

january / february 2018

For any motorcyclist, any crash can be life altering. This air-bag vest protects the neck, spine, tail, sternum and most internal organs in the event of a crash. Inflation is based on tested carbonated gas cylinders that inflate instantaneously.

Don’t risk your life and be safe.

DRK News / Views / Stuff

PRO TIP: Use four winter tires of the same type. Mixing creates a traction imbalance between the front and rear wheels, making your vehicle harder to control.

Snow & ice clearing

8 Plan ahead

Use a telescopic snow brush and ice scraper to clear all surfaces (including lights, safety sensors and cameras) before you shift into drive. This not only improves your visibility, but also prevents flying snow and ice from distracting others.

6

Make sure your windshield washer fluid is effective up to -40 degrees Celsius, regularly top up and keep extra reserves safely stored in your cargo area.

4 Winter washer fluid

PRO TIP: Winter tires can earn you financial incentives such as lower insurance premiums. Contact your insurance provider to find out how you might qualify.

Regular battery inspections can help you maintain reliable engine starts. Look for a battery designed to provide reliable starting in cold temperatures.

2 Cold weather battery

Winter is here so it’s time to step up your winter driving game with the right gear & know-how to take the wheel with confidence.

Winter Tires

GEAR UP FOR WINTER DRIVING 1 Look for the three-peak-mountain-and-snowflake symbol and choose a set of dedicated winter tires. In temperatures as warm as 7 degrees Celsius, winter tires offer superior grip and control over all-seasons.

PRO TIP: Adjust your driving to the changing weather. Take your time, drive defensively, and keep extra distance between you and others.

3 Winter-ready wiper blades

Synthetic oil

Not all wiper blades are created equal when it comes to handling extreme cold and preventing snow and ice build-up, so make a swap when the temperature drops.

5

Winter safety kit

PRO TIP: Drive slowly near working snowplows and don’t pass them – it’s dangerous! Be patient and give them room.

They will pull off once they reach the end of their route.

Synthetic oils are designed to flow better at low temperatures, making for better cold weather engine starts.

7

Check your local weather forecast and plan your route before you hit the road so you’re not caught off guard by testy weather.

PRO TIP: Sinking temperatures also bring a drop in tire pressure so get in the habit of monthly checkups, following instructions provided in your owners’ manual or vehicle information placard.

For more winter safety tips, visit BETIRESMART.ca

Be ready for the unexpected with an emergency kit that has winter safety essentials like jumper cables, roadside reflectors, a tow rope, candles, matches, flashlight, shovel, traction mat, phone charger and basic gear to keep you warm.

PRO TIP: Print me out and stick me up in the office, On the Fridge, or by the coffee machine. Safer driving for everyone!

45

january / february 2018

DRK OF THE ISSUE Powered by:

Gurpreet Singh Bajwa

Make & Model:

2017 Audi A4

Gurpreet Singh Bajwa loves the simplicity of his 2017 Audi A4 S-Line. Being a certified Commercial Transport Technician and operating his family business, Akal Diesel Truck & Trailer Repair, he deals with a variety of vehicles. “My Audi is a European masterpiece. I love the clean, cut, and classy look of the car. My favorite features are the front headlights and rear tail lights, and the Bang & Olufsen speaker system.�

www.swankstudios.com Photography By:

“WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR FINE AUTOMOBILE”

Overseas Autobody & Glass Service Centres: • Facility of choice for luxury vehicle repairs • Expertly trained professionals • Precision work • Original factory parts • State of the art equipment • Loaner vehicles available • Over 22 years in business

SURREY 7638 Anvil Way Surrey, BC V3W 4H7 Tel : 604-594-9707 Fax : 604-594-9744 ABBOTSFORD 2342 Windsor St. Abbotsford, BC V2T 6M1 Tel : 604-853-9707 Fax : 604-853-9774

REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS Monday-Friday : 7AM - 6PM Saturday : 9AM - 4PM Sunday & Holidays : closed

e: overseasautobody@telus.net w: www.overseasautobody.com january / february 2018

47

DILAWRI. YOUR DRIVE. OUR PASSION. As Canada’s largest automotive group, we connect you to the calibre of brands, products, and services you deserve.

START YOUR EXPERIENCE AT DILAWRI.CA ACURA OF LANGLEY • BURRARD ACURA • NORTH SHORE ACURA • ASTON MARTIN VANCOUVER • AUDI DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER • BENTLEY VANCOUVER • VANCOUVER HONDA • INFINITI DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER • INFINITI NORTH VANCOUVER • JAGUAR VANCOUVER • LAND ROVER VANCOUVER • MERCEDESBENZ LANGLEY • PORSCHE CENTRE VANCOUVER • NORTH VANCOUVER NISSAN • SOUTHSIDE NISSAN • DOCKSTEADER SUBARU • VOLVO OF VANCOUVER