This Week on CanadianDriver
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2011 Toyota Avalon XLS; Day 3
The Avalon offers a comfortable environment for its front-seat occupants, but the rear seat is practically limo-like. Rear-seat comfort seems to be a priority, too, as the Avalon trades a folding rear seat for one that reclines. In all, the comfortable interior helps make up for the Avalon's uninspiring sheetmetal.
Test Drive: 2011 Kia Sorento EX-V6 Luxury
Everything about this second-generation Kia Sorento is all-new, but the changes "only put it mid-pack in terms of mechanical sophistication and styling," says Chris Chase. "What really sells it, as with most Kias, is its high feature-to-dollar ratio."
What’s New: 2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class
The entry-level B-Class model will be redesigned for 2012, so the 2011 edition is unchanged except for the availability of a new “Avantgarde Runout Edition” package on both the B200 and B200 Turbo. 2011 MSRPs range from $29,900 to $32,400.
Motoring Memories: Cadillac, 1959
Depending on your perception, the 1959 Cadillac stood as either the pinnacle or the nadir of American automotive styling. The '59 Caddy's most prominent features were tailfins that soared to unprecedented heights and were capped by chrome-plated points.
Used Vehicle Review: Smart Fortwo, 2005-2010
While popular, the tiny Smart Fortwo has had a few reliability issues since its introduction here in 2004, such as problems with the air conditioning, turbocharger, airbags, and transmission. Chris Chase has all the details and relevant links.
What’s New: 2011 Audi A3
For 2011, changes to the Audi A3 are mostly cosmetic: new high-gloss and chrome exterior accents, and new finishes on the switches, air vents and instrument gauges; and there’s a new Bose Sound System. MSRPs range from $32,300 to $36,900.
Feature: Soldier on
When disabled veterans Jody Mitic and Andrew Knisley decided to raise money for the Canadian Forces "Soldier On" fund by entering the Targa Newfoundland rally, they didn’t let their lack of rally experience, money, or a car, deter them.
Test Drive: 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited 4WD
"There is no question the Ford Escape Hybrid works as advertised... and it doesn’t suffer (much) from being a hybrid," says Peter Bleakney. But with a base price of $32,409, "no one should be buying this boxy hybrid to save money."
Auto Tech: MyFord Touch
Ford’s new MyFord Touch system, an extension of its SYNC system, sets a new standard of in-vehicle connectivity and information, says Technical Editor, Jim Kerr. Highlights include internet access, improved navigation, Google maps access, and simpler phone call commands.
What’s New: 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
For 2011, the GL350 BlueTec and GL450 add bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights, and 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires. On all models, a Blind Spot Monitoring system is added to the Premium Package. MSRPs range from $70,500 to $88,900.
Test Drive: 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
"A great engine trapped in a wobbly body" is how Assistant Editor Jil McIntosh describes the 2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder. Don’t expect a sports car, she says, but it’s fine for top-down boulevard cruising at a reasonable price.
Sidebar: RV towing with a 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD"With a gross weight of 6,300 pounds, it was a safe bet that our 30-foot trailer wasn’t going to be hauled across the country by the family wagon," says Haney Louka of a recent RV trip he took with his family. That problem was solved by a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD pickup courtesy of General Motors Canada
Feature: RV having fun yet?
A summer vacation in a Chevy Silverado HD crew cab towing a 30-foot Tamarack Trail travel trailer proved to be a "a unique adventure" for Winnipeg contributor Haney Louka and his family, but not an inexpensive one, he says.
Test Drive: 2011 BMW 135i Cabriolet
For 2011, the compact 1-Series convertible is available with a new seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission that Chris Chase says is "much better" than BMW’s six-speed Sequential Manual Transmission. It’s "a great match for BMW's twin-turbocharged six-cylinder," he enthuses.
Steering You Right: Young and dumb In many provinces, getting a driver’s licence requires a series of steps that involves graduated rules and restrictions. Those rules are there for a reason, says lawyer Jordan W. Charness, who advises young drivers to think twice about disobeying them.
What’s New: 2011 Ford Edge
Redesigned for 2011, the Ford Edge has two new V6 engines, new interior and exterior styling, improved suspension and noise reduction, and new technologies, including the debut of MyFord Touch. MSRPs range from $27,999 to $43,499.
First Drive: 2011 Ford Edge
Refreshed exterior styling, a new interior design, improved entertainment and communications technology, two new engines, and improved ride, handling and braking are the highlights of the 2011 Ford Edge, which is already on sale, reports Grant Yoxon.
What’s New: 2011 Porsche Cayenne
Completely redesigned for 2011, the Porsche Cayenne is lighter and more powerful and there’s a new hybrid model. The 2011 line-up consists of the Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Hybrid, and Cayenne Turbo. All are all-wheel drive.
Motoring Memories: Borgward Isabella, 1954-1961
The car that brought the Borgward brand to North America, the Isabella was a thoroughly modern, two-door, unit-body car with attractive lines. Production ended in 1961 when the company succumbed to financial difficulties caused by "questionable management."
Used Vehicle Review: Audi A8, 2004–2010
Commonly reported problems with Audi’s second generation flagship A8 sedan include overheating, radiator leaks, faulty air suspension, and worn suspension bushings, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. Like most big German cars, it can be expensive to maintain, he says.
Test Drive: 2010 Subaru Impreza 2.5i sedan
The base Impreza sedan appeals to a "broad spectrum of buyers... particularly those who place all-wheel drive high on their wish lists," but its "generic styling and laid-back attitude" make it less appealing "if you’re looking for some excitement," says Haney Louka.
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