BFGoodrichCanada
THE NEW
KO2 TAKES ON CANADIAN
EXTREMES Introducing the
BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A® KO2 tire Whether you need tires that can take a pounding over rough ground or offer exceptional traction and toughness, BFGoodrich® tires will take you to the things you love to do. They’re your ticket to Playground Earth™. Ask your dealer how you can take control with BFGoodrich® tires, and get the driving performance you can count on.
Meets Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC) requirements for severe snow traction in all sizes. © 2014 MNA(C)I. All rights reserved
Contents
Drop Top Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro SS provides the fun factor few other cars can ...pg 18
Test Fest
AJAC’s Test Fest helps determine “Car of the Year” nominees ...pg 12
M Power
i8
The BMW i8 represents the future of performance cars ...pg 30
Porsche
The 2014 BMW M Power Tour ...pg 24
ALSO INSIDE
Starting Lines-------------------------------------- 4 Chrysler 200S-------------------------------------16 Acura TLX-----------------------------------------17 RPM Test Fleet------------------------------------28 One-on-One: Richard Rawlings ----------------34 The Truck Guy------------------------------------- 36
Porsche Canada’s Performance Tour 2014 ... pg 21
LA
See what’s new from the L.A. International Auto Show ...pg 26
GTI The new generation of the Volkswagen GTI has arrived ...pg 20
SEMA Show 2014 -------------------------------38 Plugged In----------------------------------------- 40 Classic Corner------------------------------------- 50 New Product Showcase-------------------------51 Parting Shots-------------------------------------54 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
Volume 16, Issue No. 6 December 2014/January 2015
Ford Officially Unveils the Mustang Shelby GT350
Publisher / Editor: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Circulation: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Sales & Marketing Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers/Photographers: Jordan Allan Gerry Frechette Ian Harwood Cam Hutchins Dave MacKinnon Nigel Matthews Russell Purcell Benjamin Yong
RPM IS AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING:
VALUE-ADDED & FORWARDING PARTNERS
F
ord has officially unveiled the all-new Mustang Shelby GT350 which, of course, will be based on the company’s improved sixth-generation Mustang and continues to stay true to Carroll Shelby’s original idea of transforming an everyday car into a road racer. The new GT350 will feature a new 5.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that will be the first-ever production V8 from Ford to use a flat-plane crankshaft, which is typically only found in racing applications or European sports cars. Power numbers on the new drivetrain have the horsepower at a whopping 500 combined with 400 lb-ft of torque, which makes it the most powerful naturally-aspirated production Ford engine ever. Not only is the drivetrain race-inspired, but so are many other aspects of the muscle car such as Brembo brakes, a stiffer structure in the suspension geometry, extra-stiff 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and also MagnaRide dampers which are filled with a hydraulic fluid with iron particles in it which can provide a near-instant adjustment of suspension performance when an electric current is passed through. The interior of the GT350 has also been optimized with Recaro sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, upgraded gauges, and an all-new integrated driver control system that allows for selection from five modes. Porsche CEO Says the Panamera’s Styling Could be Better The Porsche Panamera’s design has been a subject of debate ever since it was first debuted in 2009, as hardcore enthusiasts would suggest any four-door long sedan has no place in the lineup alongside the 911 or Cayman. Now, according to Australian auto news site Motoring.com.au , Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller has said the appearance, both interior and exterior, has missed the mark and there are some significant changes for the redesign. A direct quote in the report states “There have been some small mistakes and we will do better,” Mueller said. “For example, the design could be better.” The Porsche design Chief Michael Mauer told Motoring.com.au that improvements have been made for the redesigned Publishing Schedule: RPM is published 6 times per year by RPM Media Inc. Every second month. Subscription Info: 1 year: (6 issues) $9.95 + hst, 2 years: (12 issues) $17.95 + hst. Second class mailing #40050183. General Policies: The views expressed by the writers are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. Reprints with permission only. Advertisements are accepted in good faith, but we suggest that it is in your best interest to check offers personally. Publication by rpm motoring monthly should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or services offered. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any materials sent to our offices by individuals or organizations. MAILING ADDRESS: 2460 Kingsway Avenue, Port Coquitlam, B.C. Canada V3C 1T4
Tel: 604.629.9669 Fax: 778.285.2449 Toll free: 1.888.500.4591 Website: www.rpmcanada.ca
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
model that will include a more dramatic roofline. All this is not to say that the Panamera has been all bad, as it has achieved generally positive reviews for the power and luxurious features, but you can be sure the next generation model will be even better.
ran in late November. The new ATS-V will use a more powerful version of the twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6 that is found in the CTS Vsport, tuned up to an impressive 455 horsepower with 445 lb-ft of torque. This will be paired either with a 6-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match, no lift shifting and launch control, or Nurburgring Sold for the Second Time This Year with a paddle-shifted 8-speed automatic transmission. In order to The famous Nurburgring motorsports complex around the village gain the extra power, the ATS-V will be chock full of performance of Nurburg, Germany has officially been sold for the second time upgrades such as titanium connecting rods, titanium turbines for the turbos, and a high-performance lubrication system which is meant to maintain optimal oil pressure and ventilation. A single, centrally-located throttle body is located atop the engine and controls the air charge from both turbochargers, which contributes to a more immediate torque response, while eliminating the need for two throttle bodies. The exterior has a much more aggressive look with a black mesh grille at the front, and the heat extractor on the hood also featuring some black. South Korea to Possibly Ban New Corvette Due to Noise
this year. Just months after a Dusseldorf-based business called Capricorn bought the track for 77 million Euros, it has been sold again this time to Russian billionaire Viktor Kharitonin. A business magazine in Germany called Wirtschafts Woche suggests that the change in ownership this time was because Capricorn wasn’t keeping up for its payments on the track. When the company was unable to come up with the funds to meet the deadline for the second payment, Kharitonin stepped in to take over Capricorn’s share. Additionally, not only did the Russian pay the missed amount, but he also put the money down for the next payment early. Viktor Kharitonin is a founder of Russia’s largest pharmaceutical company and is reportedly worth over $1 billion, which puts him well within the top 1,500 richest people in the world. 2016 Cadillac ATS-V Debuts at L.A. Auto Show An Autoblog report has suggested that South Korean buyers hopThe 2016 Cadillac ATS-V has debuted at the L.A. Auto Show which ing to purchase the new Chevrolet C7 Corvette may be out of luck, 2016 Cadillac ATS-V
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
NISSAN GT-R. ®
THE 545-HP SUPERCAR. At Nissan, innovation never rests. That’s why every year since the launch of the GT-R, we’ve worked relentlessly to make it our fastest, meanest and most powerful model to date.
nissan.ca
Always wear your seatbelt, and please don’t drink and drive. © 2014 Nissan Canada Inc.
2016 Jaguar F-Type
as the South Korean government has a regulation on automobile noise. Chevrolet Korean CEO Sergio Rocha said during a recent news conference that the launch is being delayed due to these regulations, and it is not yet known if Chevy plans on doing anything about it. It wouldn’t prove all that difficult to somehow adjust the C7 to make it quieter and fit within the regulations, but the question of is it financially worth it would come into play. The Autoblog report states that Rocha said there are only around 12 Corvettes imported in to South Korea per year and that it just wouldn’t be worth the investment of trying to quiet them down.
“Jay Leno’s Garage” that will focus on the car collector’s market. The show, which takes its name from the web series that has over 1 million subscribers and over 105 million lifetime views, will be a prime time series which will debut in 2015 and will have Leno featuring everything including supercars, classics, and restoration projects. In a statement published by CNBC, Leno stated “The show will be about anything that rolls, explodes and makes noise. We hope to highlight the passion and the stories behind the men and women who made the automobile the greatest invention of the 20th century.”
Jay Leno to Return to TV Hosting Car-Themed Show Jaguar F-Type to Receive Substantial The former longtime Tonight Show host Jay Leno is set to return Upgrades for 2016 Model Year to TV, hosting a new television show on CNBC tentatively titled Jaguar recently unveiled the 2016 F-Type sports car which will receive substantial upgrades such as the addition of Instinctive All-Wheel Drive, an available 6-speed manual transmission, and Electric Power Assisted Steering. The AWD option will be standard on R models and will be available as an option on S models, while the 6-speed manual transmission will be offered on rear-wheel drive V6-powered models. The new transmission is a compact unit that features lightweight aluminum alloy casing and a semi-dry sump lubrication system designed to improve efficiency. F-Type models equipped with the 550-horsepower 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine will pair it with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The new AWD system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) which is a control system developed to maximize the benefits of AWD without any compromise to the car’s dynamics. IDD is networked to the powertrain, rear differential and centre coupling, and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to provide the optimum torque distribution. Additional upgrades to the new F-Type include a new Jaguar InControl suite of connectivity, telematics and infotainment systems, a new hood design, and distinctive bodywork updates.
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
ALL LOOKS. NO HASSLE.
A revolutionary solution for customers that offers the best of all worlds. GE NIGHTHAWK™ XENON headlamps deliver up to 120% more light on the road* and HID-caliber illumination, without the cost or hassle of conversion. The road ahead never looked so good. To learn more about GE NIGHTHAWK™ XENON, speak to your GE Automotive Representative.
GE NIGHTHAWK UP TO 120% MORE LIGHT ON THE ROAD GE NIGHTHAWKXENON: XENON ™
20 15 10 5 0 5 10 15 20
0
20
40
*
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
<0, 7 lx
4, 5 lx
200
[m]
Illuminance on road surface [lx] 7 lx
13 lx
22 lx
GE NIGHTHAWK™ is a trademark of GE. ©2014 GE. *GE NIGHTHAWK™ XENON halogen lamps focus up to 120% more light in an area illuminated with more than 15,000 candelas in light intensity compared to a standard halogen headlamp bulb. Specific light levels vary by bulb type and headlamp assembly.
provinces in the future. Unlike a lot of racing, each competing Nissan Micra race car will have the exact same specifications which will allow the series to truly showcase the most skilled drivers. All-New 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Achieves Astounding 0-60 mph Time When the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 finally hits showrooms, it will be one of the only cars available to achieve a less than 3-second 0-60 mph performance time. According to Chevy, the Z06 is able to accelerate to 60 mph in only 2.95 seconds when equipped with the all-new 8-speed paddle shift automatic transmission, and a 3.2 time with the standard 7-speed manual transmission. A quarter-mile sprint with the Z06 clocked in ridiculous times of 10.95 seconds for the automatic, and 11.2 seconds for the manual, with both versions hitting 127 mph at the end of the run. GM says that the new Z06 is the fastest production car ever tested at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2.9-mile Milford Road Course, as Nissan and JD Motorsport Organization it beat the previous champion, the Corvette ZR1, by a full second. Announce the Nissan Micra Cup All of these results were achieved using Z06 coupes with the Z07 Nissan Canada and JD Motorsport Organization have announced Performance package which includes Brembo carbon ceramic recently the launch of the 2015 Nissan Micra Cup in Quebec, which brake rotors and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, as well as an is a one-of-a-kind racing series that offers the lowest running costs aggressive aerodynamic package to increase downforce. of any Canadian series and will feature Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current most affordable vehicle, the 2015 Nissan Micra. The series is sanc- Mazda Canada Launches tioned by Auto Sport Quebec (ASQ) and will exclusively feature Unlimited Mileage Warranty the stock Micra 1.6L S M/T model with only minor modifications, Mazda Canada has recently announced that it will be offering Unincluding NISMO suspension, to allow it to be race ready. Addi- limited Mileage Warranty as standard on all vehicles starting with tional modifications include FIA-approved racing seat, five-point the 2015 model year, eliminating the usual distance limitations on harness, modified exhaust, a safety cage, front and rear towing the factory warranty coverage, allowing vehicle owners to drive as hooks, and a driver protection net just to name a few. The series much and as far as they want. Mazdaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basic warranty covers all will take place in the province of Quebec over the course of five parts found to be factory defective for three years, regardless of weekends starting in May 2015, with the potential to spread to other how many kilometres have been driven, while additional warranties
2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 10 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
Chrysler 300 Receives Much Needed Update for 2015 Chrysler recently unveiled the updated 2015 300 at the L.A. Auto Show, and with it comes a bolder, much larger front grille, signature LED lighting, unique finishes and new wheel designs. A new 300C Platinum model features wood accents, ultra-premium leather-wrapped instrument panel and console, platinum-chrome exterior details and 20-inch wheels. On the inside, the 300 now features a standard 7-inch full colour driver information display, an electronic rotary transmission shifter, and brand new 3-spoke steering wheel with available die-cast paddle shifters. An available 8.4-inch touchscreen is the segment’s largest and gives the 300 the ability to turn into a Wi-Fi hotspot. A class-exclusive TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission is now standard on every model with the option of pairing it to a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine or the always popular 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology. Another new feature for 2015 is a the addition of a Sport button that enables sport-tuned steering, pedals, engine and transmission calibration plus rear-biased torque on AWD models for even more dynamic handling. On the technological side of things, new advanced additions include electric power steering and cast aluminum axles and housing to reduce energy demand, weight and parasitic friction.
STRONGER
TOUGHER
W
THE ORIGINAL W
are offered such as power train components, body sheet metal perforation, and roadside assistance. The new warranty policy will be retroactive to owners who have already purchased a 2015 model and are fully transferable to subsequent owners.
MORE DURABLE
2015 GMC SIERRA POCKET STYLE FLARES ®
ADDS UP TO 2.00” of tire coverage from road debris OEM MATTE BLACK FINISH is easy to paint 100% UV PROTECTED Dura-Flex 2000 – no chalking ®
Limited Lifetime Warranty
2014 TOYOTA TUNDRA Extend-A-Fender Flares ®
NOW IN COLOR BLACK, WHITE AND MORE - details at bushwacker.com
800-338-3800
bushwacker.com RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 11
AJAC’s Top Three “Best New” Finalists Announced for 2015
Results from AJAC’s Test Fest determine the finalists for the 2015 Canadian Car of the Year Awards Story and Photos by Gerry Frechette PMG has announced the top three finalists in 15 “Best New” categories that make up the 2015 edition of the Canadian Car of the Year Awards declared annually by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). The top three finalists and category winners represent the vote results by the largest group of Canada’s best-known automotive journalists, who gathered this October in Niagara Falls, Ontario for a five-day testdrive evaluation of brand-new or significantly changed vehicle models. The event, known as “TestFest,” was hosted by the Niagara Parks Commission, and Shell Canada is the official fuel supplier. “TestFest is the most intensive new vehicle evaluation process on the planet” said CCOTY Co-Chair, Gary Grant. “No other organization employs such stringent testing methods to determine their car of the year award winners. Data driven with Canadian expertise for Canadian consumers: that’s what makes an AJAC winner”. The rigorous testing program includes “real world” driving on public roads – exactly where consumers drive - so that the test data and vote results are directly relevant to potential car and truck buyers. The results are not based on the personal opinion of just one or two journalists. Instead, the group of 73 automotive journalists each drove vehicles in 15 categories back-to-back on the same day, under the same conditions, to ensure fair and objective comparisons. 1,640 test drives occurred at TestFest, generating approximately 106,405 data points. The 500 category ballots were then tabulated by the accounting firm KPMG. “TestFest” draws a passionate crowd of auto experts who are focused on providing consumers with information they need to help make decisions on one of their biggest investments – their vehicle, says Michael Howe, Shell Fuels Scientist. “Shell Canada is proud to be the
K
12 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
official fuels sponsor of TestFest, because it is our mission to provide drivers with optimum performance through advanced technology in our fuels.” The 15 “Best New” category winners were announced on Tuesday, Dec. 2nd in Toronto, just a few days too late to be included in this issue. But we thought it would still be fun to evaluate the finalists in each class, and make a prediction on each. You can see if we were correct by visiting www.ajac.ca, where the results will be posted. Top Three Finalists 2015 Canadian Car of the Year Awards CITY CAR
Best New City Car Nominees Kia Soul Smart ForTwo PREDICTION: Both cars are cute and youthful, but the Kia Soul is more roomy, comfortable and well-equipped, and should win. SMALL CAR (under $21k) Honda Fit Nissan Micra PREDICTION: This is a tough one, as both cars check all the boxes in a sub-compact car. The Micra costs less, but the Fit has the creative rear seat that allows a few configurations. For its packaging and space, we’ll pick the Honda.
Driving a classic is like speaking a lost language. It grabs you and demands your attention. In a classic you know when the engine’s running. You feel the ride. Fast seems faster turning heads is inevitable you always take the scenic route and getting lost is part of the plan. Because no matter where you go
Life’s better in a cLassic.
877-922-4041 | HAGERTY.CA | LOCAL BROKER
We believe life’s better in a classic. That’s why we offer better insurance coverage built especially for classics and claims handled by classic car experts, at rates up to 46%* lower than everyday insurance.
Classic Car Insurance • Valuation Tools • Roadside Service
*Figure based on 2012 consumer data collected by Hagerty on single car quotes, with premiums $5,000 and under, from several Standard auto insurance carriers.
2015 VW Golf GTI
LUXURY CAR (over $50k) Acura RLX Sport Hybrid Cadillac ATS Coupe Hyundai Genesis PREDICTION: We like the luxury, sportiness and efficiency of the Acura, and the Cadillac ATS Coupe is fun to drive and stylish, but in traditional measures of luxury (value, space, comfort, equipment, and presence), the Genesis is impressive, and should win. SPORTS - PERFORMANCE (under $50k) BMW M235i Subaru STI Volkswagen Golf GTI PREDICTION: Possibly the top three such cars on most enthusiasts’ lists, so how do you pick? The GTI is a legend, but perhaps softer than it could be, while the STI has the equipment and demeanour of a rally car. The most well-balanced all-round performer here is the BMW, our pick to win.
SMALL CAR (over $21k) Mini Cooper Kia Forte5 Volkswagen Golf PREDICTION: The Mini is worthy, but more of a niche car, less mainstream. The Golf is the latest version of a comfortable and refined compact that has been one of the benchmarks for nearly 40 years. But the Forte5 is a stylish, well-equipped sedan, and a great value. For its bang-for-the-buck, we pick the Kia to win.
SPORTS - PERFORMANCE (over $50k) Dodge Challenger Hellcat Ford Mustang GT Volvo V60 Polestar PREDICTION: The latest version of the legendary Mustang is a more modern and capable car than ever before. The Challenger has hellacious power but is more of a drag strip star than an everyday driver. But the Volvo snuck up on everyone, being a very capable, comfortable Porsche 911 Turbo S & BMW M4 Coupe
FAMILY CAR (under $30k) Chrysler 200 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Toyota Camry XSE PREDICTION: The Camry has not strayed from the recipe that makes it the top-selling car in North America, except for the bold new grille and nicer interior, while the conservative Legacy has the famous AWD, but the 200 makes a compelling argument for value, style and V6 power, and it should win this class. FAMILY CAR (over $30k) Hyundai Sonata Subaru WRX Toyota Camry Hybrid PREDICTION: The Sonata is all-new and more conservative than the last one, and the WRX is the family car for the performance enthusiast, but the Camry Hybrid is the prototypical roomy, reliable family sedan with hybrid efficiency, and deserves the victory. LUXURY CAR (under $50k) Acura TLX Mercedes-Benz C-Class Volvo V60 PREDICTION: The Acura and Volvo are lovely cars with much to recommend them, but the C-Class is engaging, capable, stylish, and packed with technology, and we pick the Benz to win this class.
2015 Cadillac ELR 14 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
and fast wagon, and we will surprise everyone including ourselves by picking it to win this group. PRESTIGE (over $75k) Cadillac ELR Cadillac Escalade Mercedes-Benz S-Class 550 Coupe PREDICTION: Three more different vehicles you couldn’t imagine; prestige takes many forms. The ELR is the stylish, if perhaps overpriced, electric coupe based on the Volt. The Escalade is...well, a big, luxurious truck-based SUV. But the S-Class, in new Coupe guise, is the epitome of automotive prestige, at a realistic price, and we say it is the winner here. PRESTIGE – PERFORMANCE (over $75k) BMW M4 Coupe Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible Porsche 911 Turbo S PREDICTION: Who wouldn’t have any one of these? Or, the car that didn’t make the final three, the Jaguar F-Type Coupe? The 911 is fabulous but costs almost three times as much as the others, which could hinder its chances, and the Vette is plenty of fun, but on a hunch, we’ll pick the M4, an all-rounder that does many things very well.
™
PERFORMANCE & MILEAGE SUV - CUV (under $35k) Honda CR-V Nissan Rogue Subaru Outback 2.5i PREDICTION: The Honda and Nissan are both capable and useful vehicles, but the Subaru just has more capability, especially off-road, and a better CVT transmission than the others. We pick the Outback here.
Asymmetric Tread Design Designed for Superior Wet and Dry Performance Delivers Crisp and Tight Steering Response
SUV - CUV ($35k-$60k) Lincoln MKC Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 Toyota Highlander PREDICTION: The Lincoln is a very American take on the luxury CUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLA ditto in a German way, and the Highlander has a more family image and capabilities. We like the Mercedes to win, as it costs less than MKC in base form, has lots of luxury and better on- and off-road capability.
UTQG 300 AA A Smooth Easy to Clean Sidewalls Lightweight Construction
SUV - CUV (over $60k) GMC Yukon XL Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG Porsche Macan S PREDICTION: The GMC is pure truck, and the Mercedes pure performance car in
Available in 23 high performance sizes
Mickey Thompson
a crossover body, but the Porsche Macan combines the best of both those worlds, with an SUV’s interior, remarkable on-road performance, and impressive capability offroad. In other words, it’s the enthusiast’s “do it all” vehicle, and we pick it to win. PICKUP Chevrolet Colorado Ford F-150 GMC Canyon PREDICTION: With the Ram EcoDiesel not making the final, picking the winner becomes easier. The mid-size Chevy and GMC cousins are attractive and useful trucks that will sell well, but the F-150 is a ground-breaker with its aluminum body and resulting light-weight efficiency, and our pick to win.
ENHANCE YOUR STANCE WITH STREET COMP SC-5 WHEELS
STREET COMP SC-5 WHEELS FIT NEWER MUSTANGS, CAMAROS & CHALLENGERS Wide stance • Deep lip & flush fit • Staggered fitment options • Three finishes available
For a dealer near you, call
(877) 750-5832
Be A Part Of The Legend
or visit us online at
MickeyThompsonTires.com
Be A Part Of The Legend
Mechanically, 200s come standard with a 2.4litre Fiat-sourced four-cylinder and front-wheel drive, but the engine of choice is the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 that our tester had. With 295 horsepower, it puts the 200 in the top rung of the segment for speed, if not smooth refinement. It has a bit of a coarse personality when worked hard, and you can hear it on the highway. Given this is the sporty version of the car for enthusiastic drivers, this is all understandable. It is one of the few mid-size sedans left in which you can have a V6. Backing it up is the new 9-speed automatic, which is said to deliver better efficiency than a mere 6- or 7-speed. There have been some reported issues with it, but in our tester, it seemed to work smoothly in all shifts except down to first when coming to a stop. At that, it seemed a bit hesitant.
Imported from Detroit
Our 200S also came with all-wheel drive, which had a unique feature, in that the rear axle can be mechanically disconnected from the drivetrain, so as not to be engaged when not really needed. Having said that, the weight penalty for the disconnecting clutch assembly and the rear axle is said to be some 325 pounds, which nudges the curb weight up close to two tons. Still, AWD is a rarity in this class, and will make the 200 popular in snowy climes.
2015 Chrysler 200S AWD Story by Gerry Frechette, Photos Courtesy Chrysler Canada
T
he midsize sedan segment, the biggest non-truck one in North America, has been a tough nut to crack for Chrysler for about two decades. There have been issues over the years that have turned off potential customers, and the company has always seemed to be digging itself out of a sales hole in the segment. So, when it came time to design and launch a new sedan, Chrysler had to swing for the fences, and the result is the latest 200. Not a very punchy name, but the car itself, helped along with its advertising slogan ‘Imported from Detroit,’ hit the streets with some big attitude. First impressions of the 200’s design are very favourable, as it is as sleek as a sedan can be, in the current idiom with high beltline and fastback roofline. And the interior is no less attractive, with curvaceous door panels and a centre console that sweeps upward towards the dashboard, wherein resides the big screen for the (optional) Uconnect system that is one of the easiest to use in the business. Our tester was
Living with the 200S was a mostly satisfying experience. The car turns heads with the rakish styling and big 19-inch wheels. The front seat environment is outstanding, with comfort, good ergonomics and connectivity, although the back seat room is a bit on the tight side. Being the ‘sporty’ 200 model, the S is a solid handler and satisfyingly quick, although it does feel every bit a two-ton car, and can’t be said to be nimble-feeling like several others in the segment. We observed 8.8L/100 km in mostly highway driving, but into the 7L range in steady 100 km/h cruise. City consumption was closer to 14. So, is the new 200 the car to push Chrysler into the discussion in the fierce mid-size sedan battle? We say yes, for the most part, but it helps to have a proclivity towards brash, powerful American cars, to appreciate the many things that the 200 is good at.
SPECIFICATIONS the sporty S model, and we were very happy to see that the main seating surfaces were cloth, with leather trim. Other than the big screen, the thing you notice most when you sit down to drive the 200 is that there is no gearshift lever; choosing forward or reverse is done with a twist knob. We have mixed feelings about this, but it does free up lots of storage space in the console, and there are paddle shifters for shift-yourself moments. 16 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
MSRP (200S AWD): ............................................................................. $31,495 Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $38,790 Vehicle type: ............................................. Mid-size, front-engine, 4-door sedan Engine: ....................................................................................... 3.6L DOHC V6 Transmission: ...............................................................................9-speed auto Power: . .............................................................................295 hp @ 6,350 rpm Torque: ........................................................................... 262 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm Brakes: .......................................................................................... 4 discs, ABS Fuel Consumption:.............................. 12.8L/100km city, 8.1 L/100km highway Warranty: ..................................................................... 36 months / 60,000 km
Creating a Winner
The all-new 2015 Acura TLX Story and photos by Russell Purcell
T
hoped to keep these customers in the Acura camp. The TLX represents the perfect mix of the TL’s spacious interior and the chiseled lines of the TSX. The bold move to meld two models into one seems to be paying off for Acura, as at the time of this writing, the TLX had vaulted its way to the top of the sales charts at dealers nationwide. At first glance, the car sits low and has a wide stance. The front and rear overhangs have been shortened in comparison to the outgoing TL, while the car’s fender arches are more pronounced. A number of subtle character lines grace the body and immediately appeal to the eye.
he Acura TLX is an all-new model for 2015. This sleek new sedan is acting as the replacement for both the outgoing TSX and TL models Thankfully, the new car is not saddled with an overabundance of chrome in the Japanese company’s sedan line up. like the two outgoing cars, which should help attract more customers to Acura. The TLX will be available in three variants. A four-cylinder model, one powered by a 3.5-litre V6, and an all-wheel drive variant fitted with the larger The passenger cabin in the four-cylinder TLX is one of the quietest I have engine and the company’s proven Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive. ever experienced. To achieve this, Acura’s design team employed noise reducing insulation throughout the car, as well as electronic Active Noise I had the opportunity to test the entry model fitted with the TECH Pack- Control. This combination works so well that you can have a normal converage. This car comes equipped with a lightweight, high-revving, 2.4-litre, sation with your passengers even while travelling at highway speeds. 16-valve, DOHC, direct-injected, inline, i-VTEC four-cylinder engine that has been engineered to be both efficient and powerful. I found more than enough room for my 6’2” frame in the cockpit, and I With only 206 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque, I did not expect was almost as comfortable in the rear cabin, which has enough room for the car to deliver much in the performance department, but was I ever three regular-sized adults. The leather-wrapped steering wheel includes wrong! The TLX features an eight-speed automatic transmission that does a host of secondary controls to allow the driver to adjust various systems an excellent job of keeping the car operating in its broad power band. without taking their eyes off the road, and is heated for comfort on those While Acura has engineered this power train to maximize fuel economy, it chilly fall mornings. is still possible to extract a visceral driving experience by using the paddle shifters to select your own shift points. Visibility is excellent, as the car features slim pillars and lots of glass. The hood falls away quickly to allow a good view of the road ahead, and large The car’s dual-clutch transmission operates very smoothly and gear side mirrors keep you abreast of what is happening around you. changes are very quick. Power is delivered to the front wheels with authority while matching engine revs on downshifts and striving to make the most Safety has become job one for many auto manufacturers, and is a very efficient use of the car’s fuel. strong selling point when it comes to customer acquisition. As a result, the TLX utilizes a highly advanced body construction plus the latest in safety The TLX comes equipped with Acura’s Integrated Dynamic System (IDS), and driver-assistive technologies to provide occupant protection that is which allows the driver to customize the car’s powertrain settings to best currently unmatched in the segment. The TLX is a top safety pick. suit their individual needs or road conditions. A console-mounted button allows the operator to select from four separate drive modes – ECO, By ordering the TECH Package, consumers will benefit from the addition Normal, Sport, Sport+ - which make adjustments to the Electric Power of a number of safety and driver-assistive technologies including Blind Steering (EPS), throttle response, Precision All Wheel Steer (P-AWS) Sport Information (BSI), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision control logic four-wheel-steering, transmission shift mapping, Active Noise Warning (FCW), Lane Keep Assist (LKAS), Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) Control settings, and HVAC control in accordance with the preferences and Road Departure Mitigation (RDM). of the driver. The TLX delivers the dynamic driving experience of a sports-sedan, the Acura’s designers faced a real challenge when penning the TLX, as they comfort and amenities of a luxury car, and class-leading safety. Acura has had to find a way to appeal to both TL and TSX customers if the company created a winner with this automobile. RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 17
Real Muscle The 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of Chevrolet Canada
E
model with a third pedal (as a car of this nature should have), the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifts are adequate enough to allow you to rev up the tach close to the redline and change gears with a lightning-quick shift. When I first started my week of testing the Camaro, I wondered to myself if a car like this was a one-trick pony, and once I got past the thrill of accelerating quickly off traffic lights (stopping of course at the speed limit), interest in driving it would slowly wane. I quickly found out, however, that I could not be more wrong. In fact, each time I got behind the wheel of the Camaro, I found that I would enjoy even more than before. The fully-independent suspension and variableratio power steering were specifically tuned to deliver optimal chassis response and steering feel, and could take corners much better than I ever thought it would.
ver since the Chevrolet Camaro made its triumphant return to showrooms back in 2010, I immediately liked what I saw and couldn’t wait to one day get my hands on one and get behind the wheel. Having recently had the opportunity to test the 2015 SS Convertible version, I found myself not being the least bit disappointed, as it was everything I expected it to be - a true muscle car that combines The impressive launch control was able to keep the tire spin to a old school looks with new school technology that is every bit as fun minimum (when dry) meaning you could launch off the line to high to drive as it is to look at. speeds with ease. That is not to say that with the right technique, you couldn’t get the rear end to kick out a bit, but we’ll leave that up The exterior of the Camaro received a minor refresh for the 2014 to you. model year such as a slimmer grille with a larger lower fascia, and taillights that are more reminiscent of the original Camaro, and remains With the roof down, the aggressive exhaust note was only magnified, unchanged for 2015. The modifications to the front end definitely and the bright yellow colour of our test model with the black stripes make it appear more aggressive, while the changes to the taillights down the middle certainly helped garner a ton of looks. took some getting used to, but had grown on me by the end of my test drive. The 20-inch alloy wheels and dual black stripes down the All of this is not to suggest that driving a Camaro will give you the middle complete a look that still stays true to the classic rear-wheel same level of refinement as, say, a performance model of a BMW or drive muscle cars of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Audi, but rather it is what it is. A true (North) American muscle car that has head-turning looks, a powerful V8 engine under the hood, The inside of the Camaro is generally a well laid-out example that and the fun factor that is not often found in an automobile. features easy to use controls, a high-res touchscreen with navigation and a back-up camera, and low-mounted leather seats that firmly hold you in place during aggressive driving manoeuvres. Head and legroom are not an issue for the front passengers but those in the rear won’t be happy for long periods of time, especially with the top up. Trunk space is fairly decent for a car of this nature, but once the top goes down, a lot of that is immediately compromised. Due to the fact that it is a convertible, poor sightlines can somewhat be overlooked, but in the Camaro, shoulder checks are rendered useless due to the convertible top’s large pillars which obviously disappear once the top is put down. Powering the SS version of the Camaro is the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 that puts out an impressive 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque when paired to the 6-speed automatic transmission as our test model was. Although it would have been nice to get the chance to drive a 18 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
Original Hot Hatch 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
L
egendary is a word tossed around a bunch these days, and sometimes a car referred to that way actually is. Forty years ago, when Volkswagen launched the Golf/Rabbit and began plans for a performance version of it called a GTI, little did they know that all these years later, the seventh generation of the car first seen in Canada in 1979 would still be held in such high regard by the enthusiast. But it is, and with good reason.
The pedals are grippy rubber with aluminum trim. The shifter is leather and aluminum. All in all, VW has done a nice job on the GTI’s interior. The only engine available remains a 2.0-litre intercooled turbo four, but it has a lot more grunt than before. Horsepower is up to 210, but it is the newfound torque, up 51 pound-feet to 258, as low as 1,600 rpm, that launches the GTI to 100 km/h in the mid-six second range, which is fairly quick, but feels very quick in a small car. Fuel efficiency is rated at 9.4 L/100km in the city and 6.9 on the highway, and we saw those figures almost exactly. Transmission choice is, as before, a tough one if we were buying a GTI. The standard six-speed manual shifts slickly, but the optional six-speed DSG manumatic shifts quicker than any manual could, has a Sport mode for automatic use, paddle shifters, and is easier in traffic. Our tester had the DSG and we enjoyed it. Power goes out to the front wheels, which are kept from doing things not conducive to full traction by the standard electronically-locking differential which uses the front brakes to control wheelspin. Even better would be the optional full limited-slip diff. We didn’t get into situations in our brief time with the GTI that saw attempted loss of traction, but in ‘spirited’ urban and highway driving, the GTI is a paragon of refinement for a small car, with supple suspension, direct steering, and firm brakes. As the enthusiast’s family hatchback, the GTI has loads of room behind the back seats for cargo, and two adults can sit easily in those back seats thanks to the high roof of this boxy body. Standard equipment is extensive, including air conditioning and audio with full connectivity, and that is good because the price of the GTI has crept up a bit. Actually, the base, decontented two-door manual is less than before at $27,995, but the four-door is now $32,895, and DSG adds $1,400 to that.
So, is the standard set by generations of previous GTIs being upheld in the latest version? It certainly is, as VW has continuously improved the From the outside, you’d be hard-pressed to distinguish a GTI from a normal original hot hatchback, broadening its appeal while maintaining the style, Golf, except for the badging, wheels and tires, so conservative is this latest performance and refinement that keeps enthusiasts with a practical side design. The last generation was too; the one previous to that had more aspiring to it. flair to it. But, that is okay, as many enthusiasts don’t need their vehicle SPECIFICATIONS to shout out how hot it is. The newest GTI is longer, wider and lower than the last one. Base MSRP: ......................................................................................... $27,995 Open the door of the GTI, and you see an interior that looks rather high-end. The bolstered leather sport seats were the first clue on our tester, although we have seen other GTIs with the same plaid cloth as that original ‘79 car had, and that is what we’d want. The steering wheel is a thing of beauty, with fat leather-wrapped rim that is flat on the bottom for more leg room. 20 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
Price as tested: . ................................................................................... $34,295 Type of vehicle: ....................................... Front-engine, FWD 4-door hatchback Engine: ...................................................................2.0L DOHC turbocharged I4 Power: . .................................................................. 210 hp @ 4,300-6,200 rpm Torque: . .............................................................. 258 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,200 rpm Transmission: . ........................................................... 6-speed DSG manumatic Curb weight: . ...................................................................... 3,041 lb / 1,378 kg Fuel consumption (city/hwy): ................................................. 9.4/6.9L /100 km
Porsche Performance Tour
Story and photos by Benjamin Yong
I
n early October, Porsche Canada’s Performance Tour 2014 visited Beautiful B.C. for the first time. The three-day event combining sightseeing, fine dining and, of course, driving took place in and around Vancouver, and provided participants seat time behind three vehicles: the classic Porsche 911 Carrera S, the mid-engined Cayman and the brand new 2015 Porsche Macan luxury crossover SUV. Day 1 Guests gathered at Vancouver International Airport for introductions before setting off for the first activity of the day — off-roading in the Macans at a special course in the Callaghan Valley region near Whistler.
hill descent control (automatically slows the vehicle down on declines, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering) and an off-road mode (raises suspension height to give 9.06 inches of clearance, alters shift speeds and points to provide maximum traction, etc.), but mostly it was because of the expert guidance of Porsche driving instructors Kees Nierop, Pierre Des Marais and their team. Drivers paired up for the exercise and switched so that nobody missed an opportunity to experience the crossover and all the new technologies. Afterwards, the Macans were shuttled back to a gathering spot and everyone retired to Whistler for the evening to conclude the first day’s activities. Day 2 After having some fun off the beaten path on the first day, the tour stuck to conventional roads Thursday for the long scenic drive from Whistler to Vernon. During this leg of the program, the focus understandably switched to the coupes. Both were 2014 models, although There was a choice of Macans available: the S model with 340 little has changed for the 2015 model year — expect facelifts for the horsepower/339 lb-ft of torque, or the Turbo with 400 hp/406 lb-ft. two cars in the very near future. Both tackled the steep hills, muddy dips and rock-covered surfaces admirably without any instances of anyone getting seriously stuck. People piled in either the 3.8-litre, 400-hp Carrera S or the 2.7-litre, That was partly due to the all-wheel drive system and gadgetry such as 275-hp Cayman for the cruise up. Equipped with Porsche’s DopRPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 21
pelkupplung PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, the S rockets from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, a full 0.2 seconds faster than with the manual gearbox. Fuel consumption is also better with the auto, manufacturer rated at 10.6 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 highway, which were pretty much spot-on with my own real-world readings. The PDKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d Cayman does the sprint to 100 km/h 0.1 seconds faster than one without, at 5.6 seconds, and has fuel economy numbers of 9.4 L/100 km city and 6.2 highway. The highlight of the journey was taking turns travelling along Duffy Lake Road, the eastbound stretch of Highway 99 past Joffre Lakes Provincial Park full of windy roads and mountain switchbacks lasting for several kilometres. Mid-week traffic was light and I had the
ways, there was one final long drive from Vernon with a pit stop at Mission Raceway for what many had been looking forward to since the event began: a track day with the 911 and Cayman. Navigating public roads in a spirited fashion was enjoyable, but these premium German vehicles begged to be tested on a closed circuit.
opportunity to make use of the optional Sport Plus mode that comes with the Sport Chrono package. Tapping the button firms up the suspension via Porsche Active Suspension Management, and makes throttle and gear shifts more aggressive, instantly recognizable by the loud pop released by the exhaust pipes. The caravan made a few stops along the way: a pitstop at Nairn Falls in Pemberton, Black Iron Grill at Tobiano near Kamloops for lunch, and a driver change at the retro Route 97 Diner in Lillooet. The final destination for the night was the luxurious Sparkling Hills Resort in the Okanagan Valley, which has 3.5 million crystal elements incorporated into its architecture â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a fitting place to park the Porsches for the night.
Upon arriving at the Raceway, Nierop and Des Marais provided some requisite training on technique and safety after lunch before setting guests loose on the track. People paired up and split into two groups, each shadowing a different instructor for laps around the track. The instructors were constantly on the radios put in each car, making sure special attention was being paid to following the correct lines around corners to be as quick as possible. I thought I would miss rowing through the gears myself, but the track proved a great environment to fall in love with PDK. Even though the computer was fully capable of taking care of the shifting duties on its own, I still found myself flicking the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters entering and exiting apexes.
After a half-day of lapping, drivers were satisfied and exhausted -- at least I was. The program came to a close and the group made their way back to the Vancouver International Airport where the tour Day 3 The last day marked the end of a road trip that spanned some 1,200 started. The next Porsche Canada performance event takes place kilometres and several B.C. towns large and small. Before parting in February 2015 at Camp4 in Quebec.
22 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
BMW M Power Tour
Story and photos by Benjamin Yong
nameplate,” the M3, was released. Skipping forward a bit, 2005 saw comfort and raw power combined when the M6 hit the streets. In etters — the English alphabet is full of them. But in BMW’s case, 2009, the public got their first glimpse of what was widely considered only one single letter really matters: M. As in M3, M4, M5, and “sacrilegious” at the time, the X5 SUV and X6 crossover. M6, all of which were present at the 2014 BMW M Power Tour. Vital stats on the cars we were about to drive were presented as The German automaker brought the latest versions of the epic ve- well. The redesigned 2015 BMW M3 is wider and lighter than its hicles to Mission Raceway Park to give guests a few hours of perfor- predecessor, with an available carbon fibre roof and carbon ceramic brakes. A new TwinPower Turbo engine produces 425 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, rocketing the sedan to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.
L
People were hungry to get behind the wheel of the M4 Coupé, based on BMW’s newest chassis that replaces the 3 Series two-door models. Performance is nearly identical to the M3, and is perfect for those preferring the cleaner look of a coupe. After being briefed on safety and proper technique, guests were let loose on the track. Split into two groups, drivers paired up and practiced attacking turns on different sections of the course. A train
mance driving instruction. Before the activities began, BMW product planner Matt Wilson gave a brief history lesson on the brand. “The M division started out as a division not to sell cars, but rather help with BMW’s racing efforts. They were successful in doing that, and that’s why 40-plus years in the making, they’re still producing more and more vehicles each and every year,” says Wilson. He went on to talk about several important dates: 1978, when the first M car, the M1, was born; 1984, the first M5; 1986, the “most iconic 24 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
“Very few people are familiar with BMW Individual. What this allows you to do is really customize your vehicle in any shape or form. We’ve done our best to show some of our paint works that BMW Individual offers here today. We have quite a diverse palette out there.”
of BMWs followed a lead car occupied by an instructor, and after each run, the occupants switched vehicles and seats so everyone had the chance to experience all the models. Not all the Ms made the trip out; Wilson says they didn’t bring the motorsport variants of the X5 and X6 because they are in-between generations. Some more specifications on the participating cars: the 2015 M5 comes with a 4.4-litre V8 making 560 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, and your choice of a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. The long and elegant M6 Gran Coupé sedan posts similar power numbers to the M5 and is also available in two-door hardtop and convertible versions. From matte black finishes to bright orange paint jobs, almost every The event concluded with guests putting all their new skills to good colour under the sun was represented at the M Power Tour thanks use by doing laps of the entire track. For more information about to the company’s in-house customization program. the tour, visit www.mpowertour.ca.
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 25
Lexus LF-C2 Concept
Honda HR-V
2014 L.A. Auto Show
the CX-3 is the perfect car for urbanites. No performance statistics were given, other than that it will come with a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre engine in North America.
Honda HR-V Honda wasn’t going to let Mazda take all the mini crossover glory — they introduced the HR-V, described by Honda as blending “the styling of a coupe, the toughness, space and utility of an SUV and the quality of a Honda in one sporty, personal and versatile multi-dimensional vehicle.” Story and photos by Benjamin Yong Whew, that’s a mouthful. The HR-V features a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine producing 138 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque with a choice of a front- or aking place this year from Nov. 21 to 30, the Los Angeles International all-wheel drive configuration. Auto Show (LAIAS) marks the beginning of a long auto show season in North America. Founded in 1907, LAIAS has gained prominence Audi Prologue Concept throughout the years and is now the place where major vehicle manu- Audi had the privilege of kicking off the press conference schedule, facturers debut new models and concept cars to the world. RPM was at where President of Audi of America Scott Keogh threw the covers off a LA 2014 and we bring you our favourite unveils from ten brands.
T
Lexus LF-C2 Concept The thing that immediately catches your eye about Lexus’ LF-C2 concept is the multi-layer brilliant gold paint. Next is likely the wild styling of the open-top 2+2 seater with the exaggerated spindle front grille, big air vents and triangle-shaped LED headlights. Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president, says the LF-C2 “shows what’s in store for our brand’s future design direction.” Mazda CX-3 Mazda is hoping the CX-3, their new miniature crossover, will repeat the success of its bigger brother the CX-5. The fifth model in the modern line-up of efficient and aesthetically pleasing automobiles embodying SKYACTIV technology and KODO Soul of Motion design, Mazda says
mysterious silhouette that turned out to be the Audi Prologue Concept car. Rumoured to contain the DNA for a range-topping A9, Keough says it will dictate the future design language of Audi. The concept features a 4.0-litre TFSI 604-hp engine producing 553 lb-ft of torque. On the inside, the front instrument panel is a large organic LED touch display. BMW X5/X6 M The M-badged examples of the X5 Sports Activity Vehicle and X6 Sports Activity Coupé were unveiled at the show, which are essentially beefed up variants of the two mid-size SUVs. Both are propelled by a 4.4-litre, 567-hp TwinPower Turbo mill, the most powerful engine ever developed by BMW for an all-wheel drive vehicle. Other M distinctions 26 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
doesn’t make the announcement any less significant. This SportWagen boasts a 2.0-litre TSI engine making 296 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, fed to
include signature twin-stalk side mirrors, quad-tailpipe exhaust system all four wheels via VW’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. A six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard. and a rear spoiler. Cadillac ATS-V Scion IM Concept The biggest news from the Scion IM Concept reveal was that a production GM initially released the ATS compact luxury sedan, and then some version is on its way next year. Known as the Toyota Auris in Europe, the months later came the coupe. The track-ready ATS-V expands the lineup five-door hatchback looks like something created by a tuner shop. The
once again. A twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6 powers both a two- and four-door version, getting the ATS-V from 0 to 100 km/h in less than four seconds. IM has a wide and low look with adjustable-height racing suspension, Adjustable Recaro seats hold the driver in place and Brembo six-piston big bumpers and side skirts and body flush-mounted 19-inch forged front/four-piston rear brake calipers provide dime-stopping capability. alloy wheels. No pricing info yet, but a sub-$20,000 USD price tag is Porsche 911 Carrera GTS/Cayenne GTS anticipated. Porsche had a display hall all to itself at LA, which was overflowing with media anxious to get a look at the new GTS offerings from the German Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Think of iconic automotive nameplates, and Shelby is one that probably speed specialist. First up was the 430-horsepower 911 Carrera GTS in comes to mind. The original represented a lot of Ford firsts, and so does coupe and convertible form, outfitted with signature gloss black 20-inch centre lock wheels. Available in either rear or all-wheel drive, Porsche says the GTS is meant to bridge the gap between the Carrera S and the 911 GT3. For the SUV lover who wants a bit more sport with his or her utility, there is the brand-new Cayenne GTS. How is that done, you ask? By using a 3.6-litre bi-turbo V6 developing 440 hp; tuned air suspension giving a slightly more aggressive stance that is 20 millimetres lower than standard; and plenty of body accoutrements like larger front air intakes, wheel arch extensions and darkened LED taillights.
the new Shelby GT350, such as a high-revving 500-hp, 5.2-litre V8. Another is the first application of continuously controlled MagnaRide dampers, utilizing electric currents to make near-instant suspension adjustments for optimal handling. Volkswagen Golf R Variant It’s a shame that the Golf R Variant won’t reach our shores, but that RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 27
TEST Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Price: .............................................................................................. $49,990 Engine: . ......................................3.5L DOHC 24-valve V6 + electric motor Trans: ....................................... CVT (Continuously VariableTransmission) Power: .............................................................................................. 280 hp Torque: ........................................................................................... 215 lb-ft Curb Weight: .............................................................2,205 kg / 4,861 lbs. Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ................................... 8.6/8.5 New for 2015: The Toyota Highlander received complete redesign in 2014 and remains unchanged for the 2015 model year. Segment Competitors: Audi Q5, Lexus RX 450h, Volkswagen Touareg, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento The Skinny: The Highlander is a truly dynamic vehicle and since being completely updated in 2014, it now features all the latest safety and technology gear. Pros: The shelf that runs under almost the entire dash is incredibly useful, and as expected, the fuel efficiency in the hybrid model is amazing. Cons: The transition from the electric to the gas motor can always be felt. The Verdict: The Highlander is in an incredibly competitive and growing segment but we believe Toyota is continuing to do all the right things to remain right at the top of its class.
Acura ILX Dynamic
Price: . .......................................................................................... $32,090 Engine: . ............................................................... 2.4L DOHC 16-valve I4 Trans: ...............................................................................6-speed manual Power: . .......................................................................................... 201 hp Torque: . ....................................................................................... 170 lb-ft Curb Weight: ............................................................ 1,333 kg / 2,939 lbs Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) . ................................ 9.8/6.5 New for 2015: The ILX remains relatively unchanged for 2015 other than a new exterior colours being added. Segment Competitors: BMW 2-Series, Audi A3, Mercedes CLA-Class, Buick Verano, Honda Civic SI, Kia Optima The Skinny: The Acura ILX debuted in 2013 and is the first compact sedan since the Integra departed in 2001 and the first compact car since they axed the RSX in 2006. Our 2015 Dynamic test model is the top-of-the-line and features all the interior goodies plus the 2.4L i-VTEC engine paired to
a 6-speed manual transmission. Pros: Was a very fun car to drive and features upscale looks reminiscent of one of its German counterparts. Cons: Lacks headroom in the front for anyone above 6’2”. The Verdict: Acura seems to have lost some cachet in the world of luxury cars in the last few years, but we found much the opposite during the time spent with the ILX. It is a true luxury compact sedan truly worthy of that title.
Mercedes E550 Cabriolet
Price: .............................................................................................. $80,800 Engine: . ................................................... 4.6L biturbo DOHC 32-valve V8 Trans: ..................................................................................... 7-speed auto Power: .............................................................................................. 402 hp Torque: ........................................................................................... 443 lb-ft Curb Weight: .............................................................1,945 kg / 4,288 lbs. Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ................................. 12.2/7.8 New for 2014: The Mercedes E-Class received a front-end facelift for 2014 and a few styling changes throughout the interior. An auto stop-start function has been added along with a few new safety features. Segment Competitors: Audi S6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF Series, Porsche 911, BMW 6-Series The Skinny: The Mercedes E550 Cabriolet received a major makeover for 2014 and has further enhanced its level of prestige. It combines a classy, contemporary look with a fire-breathing biturbo V8 engine that is sure to throw you back in your seat. Pros: Drives incredibly tame and smooth until you really put your foot into it and realize you have over 400 horsepower at your feet. Cons: If you haven’t driven many Mercedes, the column-mounted shift lever can take some getting used to. The Verdict: The E550 provides one of the best blends of style and performance in its class and the option of being able to take the roof down when the weather calls for it is a plus in our books. 28 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
FLEET Audi A7 TDI
Price: ........................................................................................ $72,900 Engine: . ........................................3.0L turbodiesel DOHC 24-valve V6 Trans: ............................................................................... 8-speed auto Power: . ...................................................................................... 240 hp Torque: . ................................................................................... 428 lb-ft Curb Weight: ....................................................... 1,935 kg / 4,266 lbs. Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 8.5/5.3 New for 2014: Remains unchanged for 2014 other than the sporty S7 model now also being offered in a TDI model. Segment Competitors: BMW 6-Series, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS, Jaguar XJ Series, Lincoln MKS. The Skinny: The A7 has been a relatively big hit since it debuted in 2010 and the 2014 version is no exception. It provides a level of comfort, performance, and technology that really get you excited each time you get
behind the wheel. Pros: As with most Audis, you can’t go wrong with the combination of head-turning good looks and amazing performance. Cons: Very hard-pressed to write something here, but rear vision is somewhat poor. The Verdict: Few cars in its class can match the luxury, performance and style of the A7 TDI and it remains a top competitor in this segment.
Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ 4WD
Price: .............................................................................................. $67,795 Engine: . .................................................................. 5.3L OHV 16-valve V8 Trans: ..................................................................................... 6-speed auto Power: .............................................................................................. 355 hp Torque: . ......................................................................................... 382 lb-ft Curb Weight: .............................................................2,515 kg / 5,545 lbs. Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 15.1/10.4 New for 2015: Completely redesigned for 2015, the Chevrolet Tahoe features a bold new look with improved aerodynamics, and a new EcoTec3 powertrain that is more efficient than the previous generation. Also new safety and advanced technology features have been added. Segment Competitors: Ford Expedition, Mercedes-Benz GL, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Audi Q7, GMC Yukon, Nissan Armada The Skinny: The Chevrolet Tahoe followed the Silverado and received a complete redesign for the 2015 model year. It is chock full of some of the latest safety features and technologies but still hasn’t strayed far from the formula it has been successful with for the better part of two decades. Pros: Incredibly smooth ride for a body-on-frame SUV thanks to the magnetic ride control suspension found in our LTZ test model. Cons: Not a big surprise, but fuel efficiency isn’t one of the Tahoe’s strong points. The Verdict: The Tahoe is really a jack of all trades as it can handle just about anything you throw at it comfortably in a rather good looking package, we must say.
Mazda 6 GT
Price: ........................................................................................... $32,295 Engine: .......................................... 2.5L SKYACTIV-G DOHC 16-valve I4 Trans: .................................................................................. 6-speed auto Power: . ......................................................................................... 184 hp Torque: ........................................................................................ 185 lb-ft Curb Weight: ........................................................... 1,442 kg /3,179 lbs. Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) ................................ 7.6/5.1 New for 2015: The Mazda6 now has an optional Bose moonroof and satellite radio package, plus TomTom navigation now comes with the Touring Technology Package. Segment Competitors: Hyundai Sonata, Ford Fusion, Chrysler 200, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Chevrolet Malibu. The Skinny: The Mazda6 offers impressive fuel economy but still has a sporty feel thanks to the SKYACTIV technology. Since the redesign and addition of the company’s new design language in 2014, the 6 is one of our
favourites in its class. Pros: The interior has tons of room for all, and despite not boasting huge power numbers, the 6 feels surprisingly sporty at times. Cons: The 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine is the only one offered in the Mazda6 lineup so it’s a case of you either like it or you don’t. The Verdict: The Mazda6 offers a unique blend of styling, performance and efficiency not often found in a car of this ilk. When you consider it has a logical price point, Mazda should have no problem keeping the sales up. RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 29
Electric Power
First Drive - BMW i8 Story by Gerry Frechette, photos by Gerry Frechette and BMW Canada
T
he plug-in hybrid has been making inroads into most of the mainstream automotive segments, as battery technology allows this compromise between all-electric power for a distance suitable for urban use, and hybrid operation with a regular engine for running beyond that range and/or at higher speeds.
For the past few years, we have been shown concepts and prototypes of the i8, all of which were futuristically radical for a BMW, so it is a pleasant surprise to see the production version has stayed faithful to the original design concept. The i8 looks very exotic, especially with its two doors open. They are scissor doors, hinged at the A-pillar, and made of aluminum, carbon fibre and thermoplastic, their light weight combining with well-engineered struts to make them effortless to open and close. The i8’s design philosophy is well beyond what we can explain here, but when you see one in the flesh, and look at it from different angles, you will know that sensuality and aerodynamic efficiency can co-exist quite harmoniously.
But the manufacturers of high-end performance cars have discovered PHEVs too, because electric motors are powerful devils, especially when it comes to acceleration. Why not build a sports car with a small engine Inside, the i8 is really quite beautiful, in a modern minimalist kind of way. It powering the rear of the car, and an electric motor powering the front isn’t a sumptuous luxury car, but its combination of traditional BMW styling wheels, with modern electronic control allowing the best of all worlds in performance and efficiency? Several premium manufacturers are already building such cars, and BMW is one of them. The brand’s “i” series of cars began with the i3 urban runabout we wrote about here one year ago, and now, the i8 has hit selected showrooms in Canada, with the marketing tagline ‘the first sports car with the consumption values of a compact car.’
cues and futuristic touches like the electronic controls and gauges make for a very appealing look. The seats are thin, like an old racing seat, but we were able to get comfortable quickly. And, there was enough room for this over-six foot-tall driver. The car’s structure is largely carbon fibre (its central passenger compartment with the lithium-ion batteries along the centre tunnel) and aluminum 30 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
"3(64 6)1 1FSGPSNBODF (VBSBOUFFE &OHJOFFSFE UP 1FSGFDUJPO 2VBMJUZ 4QFBLT GPS *UTFMG
+BO t 31.
&YQFSJFODF UIF %JòFSFODF
8IPMFTBMF *ORVJSJFT 0OMZ
And that is where the common PHEV family sedan stops, but this is a BMW and a performance car, and pure efficiency measured in maximizing electric motor deployment would just not be enough. For the enthusiast, there is the Sport mode, and this is where things get really interesting. Given that our brief drive of the i8 was on a curvy rural highway, and that there was little to learn about the car in Electric or Hybrid modes that we didn’t already know, it stayed in Sport. Here, the engine is the prime mover, with the motor assisting it as needed. And it was always needed, believe me. The little three emits a nasty snarl through the tuned exhaust, and the transmission holds gears until you select another one with the paddle shifters. Now, we were driving a real BMW – fast. Remember that low-end torque of the motor? It is applied only to the front wheels, so the feeling is one of being pulled out of slower corners like a front-wheel drive car, with some understeer evident. In faster corners, especially with the engine in a lower gear and (the backbone and the structures at either end of the car to which drivetrain spooled up into its power band, the torque delivery is more balanced and suspension are attached.) There isn’t a whole lot of steel in the car, across the four wheels. The chassis is well-tuned, as expected, with crisp and the result is as you’d suspect, a light car. At some 1,575 kilograms steering and authoritative brakes. (3,476 pounds), it isn’t a featherweight, but for its size and all the batteries and equipment onboard, that is an impressive number. So, just how quick is the i8? How about zero-to-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds? Yes, the i8 can do that, and it is also one of the most fuel efficient vehicles That light weight allowed BMW to equip the i8 with the kind of powertrain on the road. Measuring efficiency is a bit of an inexact science on a car that would yield both spirited performance and world-class efficiency. with electric motors, but BMW claims 6.4L/100 km/h in Hybrid mode, so There are two completely different systems at either end of the car, which figure on at least 40 miles per gallon. obviously work together in various ways. In the rear is a 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox. It generates 231 horsepower, pretty good for 92 cubic inches. Up front is the electric motor, a big one that spins out 131 hp, driving the front wheels only, through a two-speed gearbox. So, the total power in the car is 362, making for a favourable power-to-weight ratio, and remember that the motor’s 184 lb-ft of torque is instantaneous. With two drivetrains and no physical connection between them (unlike a conventional hybrid where the engine and motor are ‘neighbours’ and drive the same end of the car), the i8 depends totally on electronics to generate an enthusiastic yet efficient driving experience. The essence of the i8 is the extent to which the driver can choose how much of each system he/she wants engaged, and the effect that choice has on the driving experience. Of the three driving modes available, two will be familiar to PHEV drivers. In Electric mode, with fully-charged batteries, the i8 will drive some 24 For years, BMW has been touting the ‘efficient dynamics’ of its cars, even kilometres at up to 120 km/h, making the car a viable electric commuter if one’s first inclination was to ask if those two qualities weren’t mutually for many people. exclusive. But now we know that they can co-exist in one car, as the i8 resolves the apparent contradiction. In Hybrid mode, the driver is essentially letting the i8’s computers make all the decisions in a way that we have seen in hybrid vehicles since their In the i8, we have now driven the future of performance cars in general, inception. Basically, the i8 is an electric car with a gasoline engine on and certainly of BMWs specifically, because this is a clear indication of the board to assist with hard acceleration, higher speeds, or charging the long-term direction the brand’s propulsive technology will be going. The batteries. enthusiast can now feel guiltless about owning a performance car.
32 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
One-on-One: Richard Rawlings
Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of Brian Braun
D
iscovery Channel’s hit TV show Fast N’ Loud is a reality-style show that follows the exploits of the Dallas, Texas-based Gas Monkey Garage, specifically owner Richard Rawlings, master mechanic Aaron Kaufman and their crew. The show has continued to gain popularity ever since it debuted back in 2012, and now in its fifth season, it’s more popular than ever. Due to the success, Rawlings was able to move the business to a much bigger location, and has even been able to open a successful Bar and Grill using the Gas Monkey name. We had a chance to sit and chat with Richard at the recent 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. RPM: How did you develop your passion for cars? Was there an influence from family? Richard Rawlings: Growing up, my Dad always worked two or three jobs at once so he could always afford to have one toy - a car or motorcycle. Plus I would tag along with him to car shows and help him work on them. I saw the enjoyment he got from that and it just went from there. RPM: What was the first car you owned? RR: A 1974 Mercury Comet which I slightly customized by adding Keystone wheels and Toyo Tires. I had to work in order to pay it off. RPM: When and how did Gas Monkey Garage start? RR: I built a successful printing and marketing company from the ground up which had over 25 employees by the time I sold it. I used that money to start Gas Monkey Garage with the ultimate goal of doing the show. RPM: So you originally started GMG with an eye towards doing a TV show about it? RR: Yes, when I first put the idea out there, I was told I wouldn’t be able to do a car building show in the same style as the motorcycle 34 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
ones like American Choppers. I said screw that, started Fast N’ Loud and it’s been successful ever since. I wanted to do something that was a little more wholesome then the constant swearing and fighting on some other shows out there. That’s not to say we don’t push the boundaries a little bit, but all in all it’s a show the whole family can watch together. RPM: Where does the name Gas Monkey come from? RR: Gas Monkey doesn’t come from grease monkey as many people may think. A monkey is something that can at times be wild and crazy, but is still very loveable. I think that describes what we’re all about and it sounded cool so we went with it. RPM: How did you originally meet Aaron? How did you choose him as master mechanic for GMG?
RPM: Do you ever watch it yourself? RR: Aaron did some work for me when he was about 20 years old when I still owned the printing and advertising business. I thought he RR: Not really. I watched the first few episodes at the beginning but did good work, so when the time came, I told him my idea for Gas found I would just critique myself. I’ll glance at it every now and then Monkey Garage and he said he was in. but not every episode. RPM: How often are you actually in the shop yourself? RR: Every day from 8am-6pm.
RPM: What’s been your favourite car you’ve done so far?
RR: One would definitely be the badass Chevrolet C-10 pickup truck RPM: Has the TV show been beneficial to the busi- that’s here at SEMA. Another would have to be the 1932 Ford 3-winness? dow coupe we did back in the first season of the show. RR: In short, yes. It definitely gets the name out there faster and RPM: How is the Gas Monkey Bar and Grill doing? showcases the kind of work we can do. RR: Awesome. We have the original Gas Monkey Bar and Grill in RPM: What’s the production process and time frame of Dallas which is doing great, another one at the Dallas/Fort Worth the show like? Airport, and plan on opening another one here in Las Vegas. Another thing we’ve done recently is open up Gas Monkey Live across the RR: We are able to produce shows faster than anybody out there. street, which is a bigger spot than the grill and a cool place to check With build and all the filler stuff, it typically takes two weeks to film out a concert. In fact, we recently had Motley Crue play their first bar an episode. show there in 20 years.
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 35
The Truck Guy
Story by Ian Harwood, photos courtesy of the manufacturers
W
ith the nights getting longer and the dark gray days ahead, anybody venturing out to do a little four wheeling will tell you that good off-road lighting is a must. Make sure you only operate them off-road.
Off-Road Lighting
headlights to power the relay. Mount the relay inside the cab, under the dash or other location out of the way and out of the elements. Run a wire from the battery or other positive source
Good quality wiring of a set of off-road lights is important when installing them on your truck, SUV or 4x4. Simply running a power and ground may work but is not the correct way to wire
to the switch. This is the positive feed to switch the relay on. You will also need to run a ground wire to the switch from the frame or other ground, then run a positive feed wire from the battery to the positive in position on the relay.
them. Most off-road lights draw a lot of power when switching them on, and this load should never be applied directly to the switch. Using a relay for the switching duties will save your switch and lights as well as make for a safer installation.
There will be four connectors on the relay - a positive, a negative, a positive out and a positive in from the battery. Read the packaging or directions to determine which is which. Find the ground position on the relay and run a wire from it to a good ground on the chassis of the vehicle. Anywhere on the frame or other metal structure of the vehicle will normally produce a decent ground. Run a section of wire from the switch output to the switched power input on the relay. Again, this will be marked or identified on the directions that came with your relay. Run the last wire from the relay â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;positive outâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; position to the lights and connect it to the positive feed on the lights. Ground the lights by attaching the black or ground wire to the frame or other ground on the truck.
Relays are easy to install and some lights come with them, but if not, you can pick up a relay from your local auto parts store. Install a switch in the cab of your truck in a location that is con- HID lights have become more popular with off-roaders these venient for you to reach, or tap into the high-beam circuit of the days. Installation is a little more work. But the principles remain 36 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
the same. Be sure to follow the instructions provided in the kit. HID stands for High Intensity Discharge, which refers to a new technology that relies on an electrical charge to light the xenon gas contained in a sealed bulb. Unlike the halogen bulb, the HID bulb does not have a filament, and because there is no filament, the bulbs are not susceptible to vehicle vibration damage. They are, however, affected by fluctuations in the vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical system, and depending on the vehicle, they may require some resistors. The HID bulb creates light by bridging an arc between two electrodes, instead of heating a filament. This light is similar to the energy transfer when lightning strikes. The arc stimulates the xenon gases, producing a bright white beam of light. The next wave of off-road lighting technology is LED. Rigid is a leader in this technology. Low amperage and superior light projecting forward is why most off-road racers are switching to this type of light. Check them out at www.rigidindustries.com.
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 37
Specifications
2014 SEMA Show T
he annual running of the SEMA (Speciality Equipment Market Association) Show in Las Vegas, Nevada gives aftermarket automotive manufacturers and OE manufacturers the perfect setting to display their latest and greatest products to people involved in the automotive industry. It is the premier automotive speciality products trade event in the world but also provides opportunities for educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events and networking opportunities. The 2014 iteration ran from November 4th-7th at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and was one of the biggest shows to date, with over 125,000 people in attendance as well as thousands of exhibitors. The show, as always, seemed to have it all from brand new 2015 Ford F-150â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already decked out before they even hit the market, to incredible hot rods and sports cars with the latest available styling and performance upgrades. Another highlight of the show worth mentioning was the New Product Showcase that featured over 2,000 product entries with the best products receiving awards in their various categories. We once again were lucky enough to attend the show, and present to you a small pictorial of some of what we were able to see.
38 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
(MBEJBUPS 23
"((3&44*7& 53&"% %&4*(/ '03 ."9*.6. 53"$5*0/ "/% 1&3'03."/$& */ "-- 0'' 30"% $0/%*5*0/4 "7"*-"#-& */ "-- 1016-"3 0'' 30"% "11-*$"5*0/4 t t w t t
%&"-&3 "/% %*453*#6503 130(3".4 "7"*-"#-& 8IPMFTBMF *ORVJSJFT POMZ
Plugged In â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2014 IASCA Finals
Story by Dave MacKinnon, Photos by Albert Akinduro
T
he NFL has the Superbowl, the NHL has the Stanley Cup and for autosound competitors who compete in IASCA (International AutoSound Competition Association), there is the aptly named World Finals. This year, as with last, the Finals were split into two locations, two weeks apart, to allow more competitors to be able to compete without having to cross the entire continent. On Sunday, October 5th, the guys at Audio Northwest in Lacey, WA were kind enough to host the INAC West Coast Champion-
40 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
FloorLiner™
Laser measured to perfectly fit your vehicle Provides “absolute interior protection™”
Rear
r the Hum
p
Ove
Has channels to carry fluids and debris to a lower reservoir FloorLiner™
Available in Black, Tan and Grey for over 900 applications
Cargo Liner
In-Channel Side Window Deflectors
Complete trunk and cargo area protection Digitally designed for each application Remains flexible under temperature extremes
EASY TO INSTALL! No Exterior Tape Needed
Increases ventilation
Reduces wind noise and allows interior heat to escape
Available in Black, Tan and Grey
BumpStep™
CargoTech™
Accessories Available for Order Now: 888-905-6287 © 2014 by MacNeil IP LLC
Light and Dark Tint Available
TechCare™
ClearCover®
Car Covers
Pet Barrier
Acura · Audi · BMW · Buick · Cadillac · Chevrolet · Chrysler · Dodge · Ferrari · Ford · GMC · Honda · Hummer · Hyundai · Infiniti Isuzu · Jeep · Kia · Land Rover · Lexus · Lincoln · Maserati · Mazda · Mercedes-Benz · Mercury · Mini · Mitsubishi · Nissan Oldsmobile · Plymouth · Pontiac · Porsche · Saab · Saturn · Scion · Subaru · Suzuki · Toyota · Volkswagen · Volvo · and more!
Canadian Customers WeatherTech.ca
American Customers WeatherTech.com
European Customers WeatherTechEurope.com
ships. I was honoured to have been asked to judge this year, and I made the trek out, along with my fellow judges Keith Turner and Travis Chin, to the surprisingly sunny Northwest to spend a day listening to some awesome cars. The venue was great and it gave the event a grassroots feel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hanging out in a parking lot, having fun, joking around and listening to the same CD again and again!
Two weeks later, the three judges once again assembled for the INAC North American Championships. The Nashville Fairgrounds served as a rustic, but otherwise ideal location for more than 50 competitors from all over the U.S., Canada and Mexico to assemble for two days of intense car audio action! Okay, maybe not intense in terms of action, but definitely in terms of hard work and dedication. Countless hours and dollars spent on installation, gear and tuning all culminate at this single event.
42 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
ated
B .C.
ne
o
w
er
P
Y
UD RO L
p d and o
Even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever plan on competing, if you are in any way a music enthusiast, you owe it to yourself to have a listen to some, nay, any of these vehicles. They are stunning in their detail and realism. I can honestly say, the challenge of being a judge, ensuring beyond a shadow of a doubt that the scores were accurate, was a daunting task! But it was 100 percent worth it to have the opportunity to listen to these vehicles! I hope to see many of these same competitors in Daytona Beach in March for the Spring Break Nationals! Visit www.iasca.com for details on who won each class.
44 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
Woody Wagon
Dennis Groundwater’s 1948 Ford Woody Story and photos by Cam Hutchins
Department that came from seizures from Chop Shops. They were theft recoveries from the Dallas Corvette Clinic in Dallas and only aving finished a ten-year build of a 1947 Ford Convertible, had 200 miles on them. and winning Best Hot Rod out of approximately 100 cars in his class at the EXPO 86 car show, Dennis Groundwater was The chassis was started in 1986 and began with the stock ‘48 Ford looking for a new project. He saw an ad in Hemmings Motor Woody chassis, with the rear crossmember removed and a new one News for a 1946 Ford Woody located in the San Francisco area. fabricated to hold the Corvette rear suspension. The front of the frame was modified to adapt the stock Corvette crossmember to the The car was in a shop next to Roy Brizio’s shop, and a fellow Woody Woody frame. Groundwater handmade front and rear sway bars and owner who worked at Brizio’s said the car was a low-mileage rust-free took them to a shop for tempering. He painted the frame in his home car with very good original wood, and it was a 1948 Ford Woody. It was partially taken apart and had a small-block Chevy in it and the best wood this guy had ever seen. Lots of extra parts had been gathered over the years that came with the car.
H
The story is that a couple of guys had taken on the car, and marriage problems halted both of them. The car was only driven for about 15 years before it was taken off the road and had been in storage since 1960. It only had 50,050 miles on the odometer. The rush was on to get the car, as the owner did not know what he had and a few guys were wanting it. Groundwater was the first call and he offered the guy what he was asking and told him he would be down in a couple of days. Longtime friend and fellow Carnut Carl Tjorm as well as Ron Ford gathered at Ford’s car dealership at 4:30 pm one Friday afternoon and hauled Tjorm’s trailer down to California. They were back in Blaine for breakfast by 8:30 Sunday morning...with the car! While looking for a project, Groundwater had been at Wolfe Chevrolet and had seen a new ‘85 Corvette on the hoist and got his tape measure and measured it up. He was thinking of fabricating a frame to go under his almost-finished convertible, using the Corvette suspension. At that time, he only knew of one fellow who had done it and that was Ron Bougie out of Edmonton who now lives in Chilliwack.
shop and made a few trick brackets that he had powder coated at Rainbow powder coaters. The frame was finally completed in 1991. A Tuned Port motor and 700R transmission were sourced from United Auto Wreckers that had also been theft recovery. Three brand new Camaros had been stolen from a Chevy Dealership and were found in Chilliwack by the Police as they were being chopped up.
Looking for Corvette suspensions was not as hard as he had ex- The metal bodywork was done by Sandy Morita who had suggested pected, and his first was bought off the Texas Attorney General maroon for the colour, but Groundwater wanted Green. After many 46 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
The other parts of the interior were also restored to match the stock car, and the upholstery was done by Arnie Schwab. The steering column looks stock but was built by Groundwater and includes turn signals and four-way flashers. There is a radio...two of them, actually. One functional AM/FM/CD in the glove compartment that never even gets turned on, and a stock non-functional one in the dash for looks.
samples, Groundwater left it up to Morita who choose British Racing Green. The chrome and brightwork were taken off the car and refreshed and polished my Groundwater. There were very few imperfections in the trim, so Groundwater repaired the dings himself. The wood was in as good a shape as any woody Groundwater had ever seen. One door had minor blistering of the plywood door insert and Gary Lang mentioned that he had a pallet of Philippine mahogany plywood that had been left behind in the business he had just bought. There was enough to do the whole car so the decision was made to completely replace all the plywood. Gary Lang used his woodworking skills to help Groundwater replace the panels. From the factory, the Woody came with Eastern Hardrock Maple and either Philippine mahogany, Birch or African mahogany. The Birch so closely matched the Eastern Hardrock Maple that they looked like the same wood without much contrast. The finishing of the wood was all done by Groundwater using a $9.95 brush from Lee Valley and lots of time. The inside roof liner was done with Groundwater lying on his back...like a modern Sistine Chapel. The wood was finally finished after two years.
RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 47
To keep with the stock look, the wheels are close to original but are 15x6 on the front with 15x7 for the rear. Perfect stock hupcaps and original looking pinstripe on the wheels hide the fact the car runs a four-wheel disc setup from an ‘85 Corvette. The car uses an aluminum rad but wherever possible, off-the-shelf parts were used, so any auto parts store can help him out when on a long trip and a part goes sideways. The suspension was also polished by Groundwater and still looks new after all this time on the road. Although the majority of work was done by Groundwater at his home shop, the wiring was left to a pro.
Back in those days, the off-the-rack wiring harnesses for fuel injection that we all take for granted were not very good. Brian Law wired the whole car from scratch, as he was an Auto Tech specializing in electronics at Wolfe Chevrolet. Other help came from Bob Clouston who helped with the fabrication, and a very close friend, Bob Wharton, who has since passed away. The car was finished in 2002 and has been driven to Woodies on the Wharf in Santa Cruz, the Early Ford V8 Nationals in Bend, Oregon, and the Woodie Tour through the Okanagan Valley that included seven or eight Woodies from Washington and Oregon. Groundwater has put 18,000 miles on it since new and yes, he is working on another project...a full-fendered ‘31 roadster pickup. 48 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
The real story behind the car revolves around Blanchard Robert Woodill, known as “Woody.” He was one of the most successful Dodge dealers in the United States, with Downey, Calif. as his home base. He had the financial means and always wanted to drive a sports car with his name on it. He took his direction from his next-door neighbour Howard Miller, during an over-the-fence conversation. Miller suggested that he have a hot rod builder, Shorty Post of Post Body Shop in Orange, Calif., fabricate a chassis, which he did using Willys Jeepster suspension components.
Woodill Wildfire was a (short) dream come true Story by Nigel Matthews
A Willys Hurricane 161-cid engine (fitted with a custom manifold and three carburetors), which Woody had access to as a Willys dealer, was placed as far back in the chassis as possible to make for an almost perfect 50/50 power-to-weight ratio. The body was a fibreglass Glasspar with some major modifications which included a double console hump dash, oval grill, lengthened driver’s compartment and an opening trunk lid and doors.
Unfortunately, it all ground to a halt when Willys was purchased by he photographed 1953 Woodill Wildfire Series II was one of the Kaiser, which had big plans for its Darrin sports car. first confirmed factory-built Wildfires of the 15 examples that ever left the factory, and only nine are known to exist today. Woody knocked on the doors of Ford, Buick and Cadillac, but the big boys in Detroit were not interested in supplying him powerplants. Most of the 285 remaining cars built were sold as kits. Woodill and Miller kept things going for a while by adapting their This car was also one of the three cars used in the movie Johnny Dark, modified body to fit a 1939 Ford chassis and running gear. which starred Tony Curtis playing the part of the design engineer. They both deserve a lot of credit for building what is claimed to be In the movie, when the company owner refused to sponsor the car in America’s first fibreglass sports cars. a Canada-to-Mexico race, Johnny stole the car with the help of the owner’s granddaughter and ran the race against the favoured driver For more on this unique car, visit forgottenfiberglass.com/fiberglasswho was Johnny’s best friend. car-marques/woodill-wildfire.
T
Time Warp Hot Hatch to be Auctioned in England Story by Nigel Matthews
T
he first example of a European ‘Hot Hatch’ dates back to 1976 and the Volkswagen GTI which was a high-performance derivative of a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback Things really took off for this segment in the mid-’80s when the Austin/Rover Group, Peugeot and Renault offered a very limited run of production-built cars so that they could meet the regulations to build their highly-modified Group B Rally cars The MG 6R4 (six-cylinder, Rally, four-wheel drive) was developed by the Williams Formula One team. Its V6 engine used twin-camshaft cylinder-heads and four valves per cylinder. The street-legal 200 Clubman versions retailed for $73,000. Peugeot launched its hot hatch in 1983. The 205-16 Turbo was one of the most technologically advanced performance cars available at the time. Its 1,800cc engine produced 200 horsepower. Car number 117 of the 200 built sold in September at the RM Auction in London for a staggering $284,000. The slightly milder 1980-1984 Renault 5 Turbo, converted to a mid-engine and rear-wheel drive configuration, produced 158 hp. Nice examples of the 400 built sell today for around $50,000. Silverstone Auctions in England is offering at their November Classic Car Show auction in Birmingham a ‘brand new’ hot hatch icon, a 1980 Talbot Sunbeam Lotus. This car is literally a brand new old one! It has never been registered and has covered just 308 kilometres in its lifetime. The left-hand-drive, time-warp car was
50 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
discovered as part of a large private collection in Italy by the current vendor. Every single aspect of the car is factory standard and as it rolled off the production line, finished in the evocative colour scheme of Embassy black with silver decals. The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus was born when Chrysler commissioned Lotus to produce an effective entrant for international Group 4 rallying. Lotus took a Sunbeam 1.6GLS shell and installed a 2.2-litre version of the Lotus 16-valve, four-cylinder engine and a five-speed ZF gearbox. It proved very effective in rallying, winning the challenging 1980 Lombard-RAC Rally. It is estimated it will fetch $45,000 to $50,000. A very nice-condition example of the same car in the UK, having been used sparingly for almost 35 years commands $15,000. A difficult purchase in some respects, because if the car is used and driven, its future value goes down. Nigel Matthews is the director of sales and marketing for Hagerty Canada, LLC — Hagerty is the world’s largest specialist provider of collector car insurance and provides many resources that support the classic car lifestyle. Contact him at nmatthews@hagerty.com or visit hagerty.ca.
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE XPEL Stealth Protection Film Perfect for Matte Finishes
QA1 Now Offering Carbon Fibre Driveshafts
The Stealth Protection Film was created by XPEL in response to the increasing popularity of matte-finished vehicles, as it protects the most vulnerable areas of the vehicle from scratches, chips and abrasions. The Stealth film features a smooth satin texture that blends seamlessly with OEM matte paint finishes, and is developed with the quality and durability of the rest of XPELâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paint protection film line. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made from polyurethane film and features incredible strength, durability and longevity. It comes available in rolls of varying width and length as well as pre-cut in a variety of patterns for hoods, headlamps, fenders, door edges, and more.
The new carbon fibre driveshafts from QA1 are made in its Advanced Materials facility, which uses specialized equipment to produce the correct torsional stiffness specifications that are necessary for worldclass carbon fibre driveshafts. The new driveshafts are lighter, stiffer, stronger and safer than traditional aluminum and steel driveshafts, but also provide many other benefits. They include being high-speed balanced for smooth operation, reduction of noise, vibration and harshness, uniform wall thickness, precision CNC-machined forged end yokes, and high-strength alloy U-joints, just to name a few.
For more information please go to www.xpel.com
For more information please go to www.qa1.net
All-New GoPro HERO4 Cameras Are Most Stunning Yet
Just in time for the holiday season, GoPro has unveiled its most advanced camera yet, the HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver. The new cameras take Emmy Award-winning GoPro performance to a whole new level with the Black version boasting incredible high-resolution 4K30 and 2.7K50 video and a high frame rate of 1080p 120 video, and the HERO4 Silver which pairs pro-quality video and photo capture with the convenience of a built-in touch display. Both versions feature a 12MP/30fps Burst camera and are waterproof to 131 feet or 40 metres. For more information please go to www.gopro.com
Parts For Any Mopar
Everything you need... Anywhere you need it!
VarsityChrysler.com RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 51
NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Barrett-Jackson and Roush Teams With Ford Racing Pylon Manufacturing to Develop 2015 Mustang 5.0L Partner to Announce Supercharger System New Line of Car With the upcoming release Care Products of the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang, there is sure to be a ton of aftermarket products readily available for owners who wish to upgrade. Roush and Ford Racing look to be in that mix as they have already created the 5.0L Ford Mustang Phase 1 Calibrated Supercharger kit that can boost performance of the muscle car to a whopping 600+ horsepower. The kit is part of the TVS (Twin Vortices Series) line which is the same line that has been used for years in Roush-built Mustangs. Unlike a turbocharger, this new supercharger provides instant throttle response For more information please go to www.bar- and generates power throughout the engine’s entire power band. rettjacksonautocare.com Barrett-Jackson and Pylon Manufacturing have announced a brand new line of premium auto car care products which include a Liquid Wax Kit, Spray Wax, Car Wash & Wax, Rapid Detailer, Interior Protectant, Leather Cleaner and “Wet Look” Tire Shine and Wheel Cleaner. For more than 40 years, Barrett-Jackson has produced “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions” and this new line of products is the same that is used to detail the vehicles offered at these auctions. The products are designed for performance, and become available in 2015.
For more information please go to www.roushperformance.com
EXCEEDS FACTORY SPECS • ESTER-BASED FULL SYNTHETIC • 1200 PPM OF ZINC
• LONGER DRAIN INTERVALS • LOWER OIL TEMPS
800.624.7958 | REDLINEOIL.COM 52 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
HOOD PROTECTORS & SIDEWIND DEFLECTORS Easy Installation / Maximum Protection / Available in Smoke or Chrome
AIRAID MXP Series Cold Air Induction System Available for 2015 Mustang The AIRAID MXP Series Cold Air Induction systems are designed for high-performance applications and use a new one-piece roto-molded air box that addresses all the shortcomings of the restrictive factory design. Also, AIRAID adds a new air intake tube constructed using high-density Polyethylene that is designed using extensive computer modelling in order to maintain proper mass air flow readings and calibration. Additionally, a built-in velocity stack is utilized to further promote airflow. The system is very simple to install and is a quick and easy way to increase airflow into your engine while maintaining proper air/fuel ratios. The kit is now available for 2015 Ford Mustang 5.0L V8 models. For more information please go to www.airaid.com
TCI Ford Mustang 5.0L Coyote Machined Flexplate
DESIGNED / ENGINEERED
2FIT At Stampede, form meets function. We create products that are not only more aerodynamic, but provide an integrated style that compliments your vehicle. And keep in mind, our products FIT LIKE A GLOVE.
TCI has a new flexplate that provides a bolt-on upgrade over the stock component and is a must for high-stall converters. This SFI 29.1approved Ford Mustang 5.0L Coyote Machined Flexplate provides the strength, rigidity, and durability that is required for the most powerful Ford applications. The machined centre section is thicker than stock for increased torque capacity, while the entire unit is e-coated for durability plus rust and corrosion protection. Designed with a 164-tooth ring gear and exclusive to TCI, the new flexplate is designed for 2011 and newer Mustangs using the Ford 6R80 transmission.
800.858.5634
StampedeAutomotiveAccessories.com
For more information please go to www.tciauto.com RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15 53
Safe to say that is going to be a day ruiner. He must’ve gained a ton of power from this. It’s amazing how many times we see this.
You’d think on a bridge this would go without saying. Why was she taking a Mustang onto the beach is beyond us.
Somebody was clearly a little too eager to get some tacos.
Parting Shots is where we share those photos that defy classification. If you’ve seen something four-wheeled (or otherwise) that you would like to share, please send it to partingshots@rpmcanada.ca 54 RPM Dec 14 / Jan 15
AVAILABLE IN: 1500K GREEN
3000K YELLOW
4300K OE
6000K WHITE
8000K SLIGHT BLUE
12000K 25000K 35000K 40000K MORE BLUE
DEEP BLUE
PURPLE
PINK
MATCH YOUR XENON HIDS WITH OUR LED PRODUCTS FOR A COMPLETE LOOK!
SALES@LUMENSHID.COM 1�888�822�6120 / DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME