Child Car Seats, Types and Ratings

With all the different types of baby and child seats out there it's no wonder most new parents may be overwhelmed.
On safecar.gov, which is a US vehicle crash safety website there is an abundant amount of information available on child car seats.

On the main page you will find:
STEP 1:
Car Seat Types -- http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Types.htm
Age and Size Recommendations -- http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Right-Car-Seat-Age-Size.htm
Find a Car Seat -- http://www.safercar.gov/cpsApp/crs/index.htm
Car Seat Ease of Use -- http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Ratings-Ease-Of-Use.htm

STEP 2:
How to Install a Car Seat -- http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/How-To-Install-Car-Seats.htm

STEP3:
How to Register Your Car Seat -- http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Recalls-Registration.htm

This link will bring you to the PRODUCTS RATINGS page. The different models are rated on Evaluation of Labels, Evaluation of Instructions, Securing the Child, Installation Features and Overall Ease of Use Rating. Each category is given a rating between 1 an 5 stars. You can choose between the different types of child seats by clicking on the 8 tabs near the top of the page. http://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa_eou/info.jsp?type=infant

Main Page Link to Parents Central:http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Car-Seat-Safety.htm

2015 Ford Focus ST vs 2015 Volkswagen GTI

Front Face-off


Rear Face-off


The Autos.ca comparison article rates these cars in four categories:
Exterior Styling Score – GTI: 3.5/5 ST: 4/5
Interior Styling and Ergonomics Score – GTI: 4/5 ST: 3.5/5
Practical, Grown-up Stuff Score – GTI: 4.5/5 ST: 4/5
Fun To Drive Score- GTI: 4/5 ST: 4.5/5  

First of all I have to file my complaint, I really hate the plaid seating material on the GTI. Yes it's a retro look from the older GTI models but were now in 2015, VW let it go already!
I believe the ST is a better looking vehicle as far as the exterior styling is concerned. I would leave out the skunk stripe, just too 80's boy racer look for me. Besides I really don't need the cops following me around all the time.
Giving the ST 1 point.
Interior styling clearly goes to the GTI (plaid material excluded). VW has always produced beautiful interiors using classy high quality materials in all their interiors, the GTI is no exception. The ST's plastic interior looks too low rent for a $30000 vehicle, I believe a bit of chrome or carbon on the interior dash may have helped.
Giving the GTI 1 point.
Practicality, the GTI has a maximum cargo volume of nearly 1500 L vs the ST’s 1269 L. Fuel efficiency ratings of 6.9 L/100 km Highway and 8.3 City, the GTI betters the ST numbers of 7.3 L/100 km and 8.9 City.
Even though the GTI betters the ST on fuel efficiency the discrepancy is not significant.
Still I must give the point to the GTI
Fun to drive sore. Even though I have not driven these vehicles I will provide you with the full specifications and links for both.

2015 VW GTI 5 door Performance Package:
2.0L, in-line 4-cylinder,16V, TSI (Premium unleaded)
220 hp @ 4,700 (162 kW @ 4,700)
258 lb-ft @ 1,500 (350 Nm @ 1,500)
225/40 R18 92H all-season tires
MPG 34/25 (6-speed manual) & 33/25 (6-speed DSG automatic)

Link VW Canada Specifications: http://www.vw.ca/en/models/golf-gti/features_specs.s9_trimlevel_detail.suffix.html/GolfGTI~2F5-door-performance.html
Link VW US Specifications: http://media.vw.com/doc/948/2015_volkswagen_golf_gti_the_icon_reinvented-2015_golf_gti_specifications-15012859415370d15b81c21.pdf

2015 Ford Focus ST:
2.0L GTDI EcoBoost^® I-4 engine
252 hp @ 5500 (Premium unleaded)
270 lb-ft @ 2500
235/40R18 Summer tires
MPG 32/23 (6-speed manual transmission only)
Link Ford Canada Specifications: http://www.ford.ca/cars/focus/specifications/view-all/
Link Ford USA Specifications: http://www.ford.com/cars/focus/specifications/view-all/

Point here will depend on your driving style. Ford has more torque and hp but at higher RPM's. The GTI will get it's torque at a really low almost diesel like 1500 RPM. For my driving style the GTI would be my preference, having all that torque at such a low RPM will really launch you of the start. As well for those who don't like to do their own shifting only VW provides the auto box.
Point to the GTI

Ford's interior styling


VW's interior styling


In my opinion the GTI is the winner, even with is toned down styling and plaid seat fabric.

Pricing:
2015 Ford Focus ST -- Base Price: $29,999 Canadian
2015 Volkswagen GTI 5-door Performance Package -- Base Price: $36,590 Canadian
If you would like to read the full article from Auto's.ca you can follow this link: http://www.autos.ca/car-comparisons/comparison-test-2015-ford-focus-st-vs-2015-volkswagen-gti/

10 Most Fuel Efficient SUV for 2015

The modern day SUV has been increasing in popularity over the past decade. These are not serious off-road vehicles but do include AWD (all-wheel drive) and are perfect for rural and bad weather situations. Below you will find the list of top 10 most fuel efficient SUV based on the study from Kelly Blue Book.
All SUV in the list are 2015 models, fuel consumption numbers are city/highway (mpg and L/100km)
1.
Hyundai Tuscon Fuel Cell **  48/50 (4.9/4.7) ** 134 hp (hydrogen fuel cell with electric motor)

2.
Lexus NX hybrid *********  35/31 (6.7/7.6) ** 194 hp (2.5-liter inline-4 engine & electric motor)

3.
Subaru XV crosstrek ******  29/33 (8.1/7.1) ** 148 hp (2.0-liter boxer-4 petrol engine)

4.
BMW X3 ***************  27/34 (8.7/6.9) ** 180 hp (2.0-liter turbo diesel inline-4)

5.
Lexus RXh **************  32/28 (7.4/8.4) ** 245 hp (3.5-liter V6 & 123-kW electric motor)

6.
Nissan Juke *************   28/32 (8.4/7.4) ** 188 hp (1.6-liter turbo 4 cylinder petrol engine)

7.
Chevrolet Trax ***********  26/34 (9.0/6.9) ** 138 hp (1.4-liter turbo 4 cylinder petrol engine)

8.
Honda CRV *************  27/34 (8.7/6.9) ** 185 hp (2.4-liter 4 cylinder petrol engine)

9.
Mazda CX-5 ************   26/32 (9.0/7.4) ** 155 hp (2.0-liter 4 cylinder petrol engine)

10.
Mercedes-Benz GLA ****   25/35 (9.4/6.7) ** 208 hp (2.0-liter turbo 4 cylinder petrol engine)

Colour codes: fuel cell technology, electric hybrid technology, diesel, all non coloured are petrol powered (gas).
If you are opting to purchase any one of these SUV try to compare similar technologies. As well take a look at the maintenance schedule and warranty information of the vehicle. You may save fuel in the early years but pay some hefty repair costs in the later years. Of course this should be considered by those who plan on keeping their SUV for a long term period.
Full article may be found on the Kbb.com site by following this link: http://www.kbb.com/most-fuel-efficient-cars/suv/2015/10/
More detailed information can be found by clicking on the picture of the SUV. All pictures are courtesy of Google images.

All new BMW i8 turbo (hybrid-plug in)

It is touted as a revolutionary vehicle. So is the all new BMW i8 revolutionary, lets take a look.
First of all it's design is original, looks are modern but not so much as to repel the prospective buyer. If you look closer you can see a slight resemblance to an older BMW model the 850i.

Here are the key facts of the BMW i8:

• It's a plug in hybrid, electric motor and combustion engine. The combination of BMW eDrive technology and a BMW TwinPower Turbo 1.5 Liter, three cylinder petrol engine.
• It's scissor doors are made of aluminum, carbon and thermoplastic, they are approximately 50% lighter than conventionally built doors.
• Lightweight construction, the passenger compartment is made of a carbon fiber composite. Carbon fiber composite is up to 50% lighter than steel and approximately 30% lighter than aluminum, yet provides the same stability and crash-safe material properties.
• The LifeDrive architecture is made up of two units. (1) the drive module, an aluminium chassis with the electric motor located in its front section. In the rear part of the drive module is the three cylinder petrol engine. Joining the two sections is the high-voltage battery. (2) the life module, an ultra light passenger cell made of high-strength carbon. 
• 50:50 axle load distribution.

 For a full list of the BMW i8 technical specs follow this link: http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/i/i8/2014/showroom/technical_data.html

ENGINE AND DRIVE:
The BMW TwinPower Turbo 1.5 Liter three cylinder petrol engine, (all new) the "engine management guarantees optimum charge changing processes across the ignition point and ensures a rapid response from the turbocharger." During operation the maximum output of the engine is 170 kW (231 hp) and up to 320 Nm of torque. The best part of this engine is it's outstanding efficiency with a combined consumption of only 2.1 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 49 g/km.
Driving is possible up to a range of 37 km on the electric motor alone. With a maximum speed of up to 250 km/h, power is delivered to all four wheels (see next paragraph).
There are three driving modes comfort, eco pro, sport, and the eDrive button optimizes the vehicle's properties to suit the driving situation.
With the eDrive button pressed, 100% electric driving is possible with power delivered to the front wheels only. The hybrid mode allows the intelligent combination of two types of drive (electric and petrol) that provide optimal traction in every situation.
The electric drive is located on the front axle, while a high-performance 3-cylinder engine works at the rear axle. All four wheels can thus be powered simultaneously by two engines.

The price? It will set you back $137,450 US, $145,000 Canadian, 126,000 Euros in Germany or 99,125 British pounds.

Further information on the BMW i8 can be found on BMW website by following this link: http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/i/i8/2014/showroom/technical_data.html
All photos curtsey of BMW website.

Best Resale Value Cars for 2015

Kelly Blue Book has posted it's 2015 Best Value Award winners. You may find some vehicles on the list as quite a shock, I did. Remember this list is for best resale value and not for best quality.

Here is the list:

BEST BRANDS WINNERS

Subaru takes the top spot for best brand, while Lexus wins the best luxury brand award. No surprise here both are known to built solid vehicles which retain a high resale value for years to come.
Lexus of course for it's high quality materials and excellent assembly quality. Subaru on the other hand while not a high quantity vehicle manufacturer offers a great all-wheel drive (AWD) system on their entire lineup. Along with an above average build quality this makes Subarus highly sought after vehicles, especially in Vermont and eastern Canada where the winter weather tends to get nasty.

TOP 10 MODELS:

1. 2015 Toyota Tacoma: "Even in its last model year before a complete redesign, the Toyota Tacoma boasts the best resale value in the business."
2. 2015 Jeep Wrangler: "The Jeep Wrangler is seemingly unstoppable off-road, and positively resilient when it comes to retaining value."
3. 2015 Toyota Tundra: "The Toyota Tundra is far from winning the full-size truck war, but it continues to win the resale value battles."
4. 2015 Chevrolet Colorado: "The Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickup truck returns from hiatus with an all-new design, more capability and Top 10 resale value credentials."
5. 2015 GMC Canyon: "The all-new GMC Canyon offers the same excellent resale value as its Chevy Colorado corporate cousin, but with a tougher look."
6. 2015 GMC Sierra: "The GMC Sierra full-size truck may trail its Silverado sibling in sales, but it edges the Chevy on the list of resale value standouts."
7. 2015 Chevrolet Silverado: "Fresh off a full redesign last year, the Chevrolet Silverado remains the second-best-selling vehicle in the country by combining capability, comfort and resale value."
8. 2015 Toyota 4Runner: "The Toyota 4Runner features truck-like, body-on-frame construction, qualifying it as one of the most capable SUVs in existence."
9. 2015 Ford F-150: "Not just a resale value standout, the totally redesigned Ford F-150 also took home our inaugural Overall Best Buy Award this year."
10. 2015 Honda CR-V: "Impressively enhanced for 2015, the versatile and refined Honda CR-V is a resale value all-star as well as our first-ever Compact SUV Best Buy."

I must say that I'm not too pleased with this list. First of all most of the vehicles are pick-up trucks. Secondly there is overlap between the GMC/Chevrolet models, which are practically the same except for some exterior styling notes.

At least there is my favorite section the CATEGORY WINNER and they also added the two runner-ups:

Best Subcompact Car Winner: 2015 Honda Fit
runner-ups, 2015 Nissan Versa, 2015 VW Golf

Best Compact Car Winner: 2015 Subaru Impreza
runner-ups, 2015 Toyota Corolla, 2015 Scion xB

Best Mid-Size Car Winner: 2015 Subaru Legacy
runner-ups, 2015 Toyota Camry, 2015 Honda Accord

Best Full-Size Car Winner: 2015 Dodge Charger
runner-ups, 2015 Toyota Avalon, 2015 Chevrolet Impala

Best Sporty Compact Car Winner: 2015 Subaru WRX
runner-ups, 2015 VW GTI, 2015 Honda Civic Si

Best Sports Car Winner: 2015 Chevrolet Camaro V6
runner-ups, 2015 Dodge Challenger, 2015 Porsche Cayman

Best High Performance Car Winner: 2015 Chevrolet Corvette
runner-ups, 2015 Chevrolet Camaro (SS/Zl1/Z28), 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT/Hellcat

Best Entry Level Luxury Car Winner: 2015 Lexus RC 350
runner-ups, 2015 Lexus ES 350, 2015 Lexus IS

Best Luxury Car Winner: 2015 Lexus GS 350
runner-ups, 2015 Audi A5, 2015 Audi A7

Best High-End Luxury Car Winner: 2015 Lexus LS 460
runner-ups, 2015 Porsche Panamera, 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Best Hybrid/Alternative Energy Car Winner: 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid
runner-ups, 2015 Honda Civic Hybrid/ Natural Gas, 2015 Lexus ES 300h

Best Plug-In Vehicle Winner: 2015 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid
runner-ups, 2015 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid, 2015 Ford Fusion Energi

Best Compact SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Jeep Wrangler
runner-ups, 2015 Honda CR-V, 2015 Subaru Forester

Best Mid-Size SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
runner-ups, 2015 Toyota 4Runner, 2015 Toyota Highlander

Best Full-Size SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Chevrolet Suburban
runner-ups, 2015 Toyota Sequoia, 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe

Best Luxury Compact SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK
runner-ups, 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA, 2015 Lexus NX 200t

Best Luxury Mid-Size SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Lexus GX 460
runner-ups, 2015 Mercedes-Benz G, 2015 Infinity QX 60

Best Luxury Full-Size SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Lexus LX 570
runner-ups, 2015 Cadillac Escalade, 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL

Best Hybrid SUV/Crossover Winner: 2015 Lexus RX 450h
runner-ups, 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, 2015 Infiniti QX60 Hybrid

Best Mid-Size Pickup Truck Winner: 2015 Toyota Tacoma
runner-ups, 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, 2015 GMC Canyon

Best Full-Size Pickup Truck Winner: 2015 Toyota Tundra
runner-ups, 2015 GMC Sierra HD, 2015 Chevrolet Silverado HD

Best Minivan/Van Winner: 2015 Toyota Sienna
runner-ups, 2015 Ford Transit Van, 2015 Honda Odyssey

This is a pretty exhaustive list from KBB, if you want to read the full article you can click on this link: http://www.kbb.com/new-cars/best-resale-value-awards/  

Used tires -- Watch out, re-grooves!

I had seen this video for the first time around two months ago when it made the front page of a very popular Finnish paper, Ilta-Sanomat.
I thought nothing of it at first just some local Finn having fun and showing off, maybe after a few drinks.
Now, this video has shown up as well on the Road&Track website in this article: http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/buying-maintenance/news/a25247/watch-how-scammers-make-dangerously-worn-tires-look-new/

This is no laughing matter, this is extremely dangerous. These people do not care if somebody gets hurt or killed, take a look at this you tube video below.

Under the rubber tread that we see are steel belts which reinforce the tire, at the same time these belts need to be protected from denting by a certain thickness of rubber. Once this rubber is thinned out the steel belt protection is compromised. Steel belts are used to reinforce the area under the tread. These belts provide puncture resistance and help the tire stay flat so that it makes the best contact with the road.
More on how tires are made and work on howstuffworks.com link: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/tire1.htm
 

What you should look for in used tires are these wear bars on the above photo. According to most mechanics once this these wear bars are even with the tread the tire's useful life is over.
Be very vigilant when purchasing used tires through private sellers, always look for these wear bars to give you an indication of the tires remaining life. These wear bars would not be present at all if the process used in the video was performed on them.

$120 ticket in Quebec, Canada for using an Apple Watch while driving

Sheer stupidity! What a waste of tax payers money.
This is one of those times in my opinion that this driver is in the right.

Here is the story that took place in a small suburb of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The local highway police here in Quebec is called the SQ, short for Surete du Quebec.

The SQ handed a $120 fine and 4 demerit points to Jeffrey Macesin from Pincourt for using his Apple Watch while driving. (even though he kept one hand on the steering wheel)
The police officer invoked Section 439.1 of the Quebec Highway Safety Code that reads: "No person may, while driving a road vehicle, use a hand-held device that includes a telephone function."
Hold on a second if the watch is on your wrist then how can it be considered "hand-held".
Macesin plans to appeal the ticket since his Apple Watch was strapped to his wrist and therefore can't be considered a hand-held device.

"According to a May 15th article on the Protegez-Vous (French) website, there are circumstances where it is legal to use a phone behind the wheel, like when the device is fixed to the windshield or dashboard, or when using it as a GPS. That being said, you still can't browse through the menus to check your playlist or send a text message, for example."

"In the case of the Apple Watch, Protegez-Vous claims that a police officer can't pull you over if you make a call with your watch, unless you hold the latter in your hand. They can, however, if you appear to be more focused on your watch than the road."

Is there and justice? We will soon find out once this court case is heard.

Full Article on auto123.com : http://www.auto123.com/en/news/a-120-fine-for-using-apple-watch-while-driving/60841/
Photo from Google Images.

2016 Mazda CX-3 vs 2016 Honda HR-V are good looks all it's got?

Mazda is known here in Canada for it's Zoom-Zoom slogan. Following on the new Mazda Kodo design is another addition to the Mazda SUV family, the sub-compact SUV, the Mazda CX-3




The CX-3's power comes from a 2.0 L Skyactiv four cylinder producing 146 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. All Mazda CX-3's have a six-speed automatic and electric power steering. In comparison there is 5 hp and 19 lb-ft more in the CX-3 than the 2016 Honda HR-V (1.8-liter four with 141 hp). The CX-3 is also 100 lbs lighter (45 kg) versus a comparably equipped front-drive HR-V with a CVT transmission. Oddly enough real world fuel consumption ratings for both vehicles with the automatic transmission fell in the 28 to 29 mpg range (in metric that's slightly over 8L/100km). Pretty good numbers for North American standards considering our low octane regular fuel of 87.

The one item missing on the CX-3 is interior space, especially in the rear seat leg room department. As well it does not have the versatility of the Honda HR-V's rear "magic seat".


While the CX-3 is stated to handle and ride better than the HR-V, the lack of interior space and versatility may be it's largest drawback.
Honda reputation has been built primarily on reliability, where as Mazda more on the "fun" factor.

The base sport trim CX-3 will apparently start in the low $20,000 US according to Mazda, but final pricing is not yet finalized.

Link to full Road&Track article 2016 Mazda CX-3: http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/a25682/2016-mazda-cx3-first-drive-review/
Link to full Road&Track article on 2016 Honda HR-V:http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/news/a25656/first-drive-2016-honda-hr-v/

Ford Recall - 2012-2014 models, hold on to your doors!

Remember that old expression * hold on to your hats *, well now apparently some Ford owners have to hold on to their doors.
Ford recall affects 389,585 vehicles built between 2012 and 2014 model years. The recall involves  faulty latches that may allow the doors to fly open while the car is being driven. The faulty part is actually called a pawl spring tab which can break, in turn results to doors that can't be latched.

All models affected by the recall were built in Ford's three Mexican plants, these models are:

* 2012 to 2014 Fiesta vehicles built at Cuautitlán Assembly Plant in Mexico between Feb. 1, 2012, and May 31, 2013


* certain 2013 to 2014 Ford Fusion vehicles built at Hermosillo Assembly Plant from July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013


* certain 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ vehicles also built in Hermosillo from July 1, 2012, to May 31, 2013


Of the 389,585 vehicles under recall, 336,873 are believed to be in the U.S., 30,198 in Canada and 22,514 in Mexico. Ford dealers will replace all four door latches at no cost to the customer.

Full recall article on USA today web-site: http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2015/04/25/ford-recall-door-latches/26361495/
All images curtsy of Google images

Best All-Season Tires for 2015

Since writing this blog most of the feedback that I have receive from you the readers is positive in nature and I thank you for that. As well the majority of your feeback has to do with tire information and professional recomendations from the leading tire retailers and testers. Buying the right/best tires for your budget is a really important decision. We try to make a well informed decision because we all know that we will have to live with those tires on average between 3 and 5 years.

So here is a fresh all-season tire review from wheels.ca (14.04.2015)
Before I list their results of the top all-season tires here were the parameters used by wheels.ca in the data collection:
"In researching all-season tires, I found that test results and consumer feedback on TireRack.com, CanadianTire.ca and ConsumerReports.org support the above models as top picks, taking into consideration various performance characteristics. Bare in mind that user feedback is subjective as everyone has difference priorities and experiences based on their driving style and conditions. All new tires start out very good at the beginning of their life, but it is important to consider how their characteristics will change as the tire wears out."

• Michelin Premier A/S (new tire design, top rated, pricey) ($133, 640 A/A)
• General Altimax RT43 (best bang for the buck) ($80, 700 A/A)
• Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 (best handling, acceleration, and braking) ($131, 500 AA/A)
• Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season PLUS (best ride, low road noise) ($106, 700 A/A)
• Michelin Defender (best tread-wear, good fuel efficiency) ($125, 820 A/B)
• Michelin LTX M/S2 (light truck SUV) (best overall truck/SUV tire, pricey) (N/A)
• Firestone Destination LE2 (light truck SUV) (best value priced truck/SUV tire) (N/A)
• Continental ExtremeContact DWS (best handling, acceleration, braking) ($110, 540 A/A)
• Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season PLUS (best ride, low road noise) (N/A)
• Bridgestone Dueler HL Alenz PLUS (best tread-wear, good fuel efficiency) (N/A)

Beside each tire I have included the tread-wear life, traction and temperature information as well as a price in US dollars (tirerack.com) just to give you a rough idea of an average cost for a 205/55/16 tire. (chose the size due to it's high use on most midsize cars)
What you see is ($$$$, 500 AA/A), the higher the number the longer the tire will last. The first letter or set of letters correspond to traction, AA being the best then A then B then C. The second letter corresponds to the heat resistance of the tire the higher the letter the better A, then B, then C)
As an example the Michelin Defender tire will last for 1.5 times longer than the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3, but the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 has better traction and can handle higher speeds than the Michelin Defender can.
For more detailed information on how to read tread-wear, traction and temperature information on sidewalls follow this link to discounttire.com link: http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/infoTreadwear.do

You have to decide which is the right tire for you based on your needs and driving style. 
Myself knowing full well Michelin does produce what is probably considered the best (3 season) tires in the world. At $80 each I would not be able to pass up the incredible deal that the General Altimax RT43's offer. (almost $50 less on average per tire than the Michelins)

"As a general principle, it is best practice to select the highest quality tire that your budget will allow and follow your vehicle’s original manufacturer fitment for size, load and speed rating. When your tires are worn to the wear indicator, don’t put off purchasing new replacement tires because worn tires exhibit reduced performance and safety. After all, tires are what keep our vehicles safely planted on the road."

I highly recommend reading the full article by following this link to the wheels.ca website: http://www.wheels.ca/guides/best-all-season-tires-for-2015/

2016 Honda Civic - 10th generation unveiled @ the New York auto show

Update (16.04.2015):
Base engine for North America will be a twin-cam VTEC 2.0L four cylinder, while the higher end Type R model will get a 1.5L four cylinder turbo. Six speed manual or a CVT will be the transmission choices for the base version Civic. No power specifications on the base engine have yet been disclosed.
Rumor has it that the next generation Type R Civic around two years away will receive a 2.0L turbo engine with around 300 horsepower (only be offered with a six-speed manual).
More on this news at Car&Driver.com link: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2016-honda-civic-coupe-concept-photos-and-info-news
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Honda unveiled on Wednesday the 10th generation Civic at the 2015 New York auto show.
Honda's Executive Vice-President John Mendel told the audience "This, ladies and gentlemen, is the return of the sporty Civic". Unfortunately not much engine or suspension information was disclosed at the show.


Full set of 22 pictures of the new look lime-green Honda Civic can be found by following this link to the globe and mail web-site: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/in-photos-dramatic-new-look-for-honda-civic/article23760885/

According to USA today article:
"Mendel said that a Civic Type-R, a sport version found outside the U.S., will be coming to American showrooms. Among the engine choices in the Civic will be a new 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. It will also come with a CVT, or continuously variable transmission."
You can read the full USA today article and watch a short video by clicking on the following link: http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2015/04/01/honda-civic-new-york/70780754/

Potholes - There back, can you claim? and how, that depends on the city

Living in Montreal, Quebec, Canada has got to be the most frustrating thing as a motorist. Not only are the highways outdated (70's) and our overpasses collapsing now it's that dreaded time once again, pothole season! Oh, almost forgot exploding water pipes which flood the streets in the winter months which later become wonderful places to play hockey.
Here is just a sample picture I took today in a west end Montreal neighborhood.

The city has been blaming the construction companies of the 70's of stealing and using low quality materials in the original city infrastructure.
Well guess what when you tender jobs to the lowest bidder this is what you will most likely get. Quebec has been rocked with numerous construction scandals over the years, the most recent SNC-Lavalin.
Knowing this problem exists what has Montreal done, they passed a law which makes it virtually impossible to sue the city for damages. So Montrealers and tourists beware city potholes will cost you.

Just look at this quote from abouttravel.com: http://montreal.about.com/od/gettingaroundtown/f/pothole_recours.htm concerning making a pothole damage claim in Montreal.
"Before submitting a claim for damages, be aware that the city of Montreal is not liable for damage to tires or suspension systems from road conditions (like potholes). However, damage to steering, wheel rims, alignment, hubcaps, and other parts can be claimed for compensation. But in order to receive compensation, the motorist must show city authorities were aware of the pothole in question and yet did not repair it, or at least indicate its presence via warning signs, within a reasonable delay.
Motorists have 15 days after the pothole incident to submit a claim by registered mail to the city of Montreal.City authorities are not necessarily going to accept your claim, but it's certainly within your rights to file one. Call 311, the city of Montreal info line, for more details on preparing your claim. And remember to request a copy of the city's pothole registry for the time period in question just in case someone else had previously reported the pothole."
Here is what abouttravel.com suggests you do:

1. Take pictures of the pothole (OK cellphone, such as mine above)
2. Measure and record pothole depth and width. (yes because everyone has a tape measure in their car, get real!)
3. Present witnesses who were aware of the pothole and how long it was in disrepair (e.g., residents living in front of the pothole, local merchants with neighboring storefronts, other motorists who suffered damage, police, etc.) (I will go knocking on stragers doors, ya OK)
4. Have a repair estimate from a recognized garage indicating the extent of the damage and what car parts were affected by the impact.
5. This is crucial: find out if the city was aware of the pothole by checking the city of Montreal's pothole registry as well as CAA-Quebec's Road Problem Watch webpage. And present proof of the date(s) the pothole was reported: show copies of emails/letters sent to the city on the subject of said pothole, present recorded times and dates of calls to 311 about said pothole, show a copy of the city pothole registry -- registre de signalement des nids-de-poule -- for the period in question (it's available on request and it will show you if anyone else reported the pothole prior to your accident), print out a pothole notification entry on CAA-Quebec's Road Problem Watch page if applicable, etc.)

So as you can see it is easier to get hit by lightning twice and then struck by a bus than to receive monetary damages from potholes due to city negligence.
This law was made to protect the city of Montreal and not it's citizens. I though we paid taxes to the government to provide us with usable services and not garbage. Driving in Montreal in the springtime is an obstacle course.
Hiding behind a law is not the solution!

15 of the most durable car that refuse to die (trucks not included)

Here is the list of the 15 most durable cars ever produced that just keep going and going. List was compiled by Kiplinger on January of 2015, in no specific order. There are some surprises in there as well.

1. Honda Accord - Model years 1976 to present
2. Buick Roadmaster Wagon (Chevy Impala wagon) - Model years 1991-1996
3. Geo Prizm (Toyota Corolla clone made in US) - Model years 1984-2010
4. VW Van - Model years 1950-1992
5. All RWD Volvo - Model years 1966-1996
6. SAAB 900 - Model years 1979-1993
7. Subaru Wagons - Model years 1990 to present
8. Mercedes 240D/300D/300TD (diesels) - Model years 1975 to 1983
9. Toyota Camry - Model years 1992 to present
10. Ford Escort - Model years 1991 to 2002
11. Chevy Camaro/Pontiac Firebird - Model years 1982-2002
12. Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Marquis - Model years 1992 to 2011
13. Buick LeSabre - Model years 1989 to 2005
14. Jeep Cherokee (SUV that was car based) - Model years 1987 to 2001
15. Jaguar XJ6 sedan - Model years 1995 to 1997

I can't say that I agree this this entire list, I would have to exclude vehicles 14 & 15 on the list.
Reason for #14 exclusion assembly of the Cherokee was sub par at best. Excluding the engine everything else on the Cherokee was biodegradable.
Exclusion of #15 the XJ6 is mainly due to the extremely high cost and scarcity of the replacement parts.

Full article can be read on Kiplinger.com by following this link: http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/cars/T009-S001-cars-that-refuse-to-die/index.html

2016 Hyundai Tuscon (European specs) - All-New

Where other entry model SUV makers are offering bland styling Hyundai finally has got the right recipe. The uber sexy 2016 Hyundai Tuscon, Hyundai is proving lately to other auto manufacturers and the public that you can actually produce well built and nice looking vehicles at a reasonable price.

For those of you who have seen the most recent model of the Hyundai Santa Fe will tell me that it is a "mimi-me" version of that SUV.  Yes it is, styling is almost identical but smaller. It is clearly targeted to the European and Asian markets. Although here in Canada it's a very popular model and there are still plenty of older Tuscon models on the road. As you can see from the pictures the front grill is very "Hyundai like", Mazda has also followed this same styling idea with almost all their vehicles having the same front fascia.

Hyundai has released the European specifications. Built on an all new platform the 2016 Hyundai Tuscon has 18.5 cubic feet (524 L) of cargo space with the second row up. Overall length of 2016 Tuscon increases to 176.1 inches (447 cm), 2.6 inches (6.6 cm) longer than the previous model.
There are two four cylinder engines available: a 1.6 liter normally aspirated gasoline engine offering 130 hp and the turbocharged version producing 170 hp. Three diesel options will be available in Europe ranging from a 1.7 to 2.0 liters in displacement.
Transmissions choices: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic or 7-speed dual clutch automatic.

Car and Driver states that non European markets get a direct-injected 2.0 L four cylinder which they expect would be the U.S. market’s standard engine. Currently the 2.0 L GDI engine produces 173 hp @ 6500 rpm on our crappy North American 87 Octane gasoline.


On the safety front, Hyundai's Autonomous Emergency Braking with three modes, pedestrian, city and inter-urban.  "Automatic braking is engaged whenever an unsafe closing speed with a person or vehicle in front, from low to high speeds, is detected. Other safety features include Lane Keeping Assist that proactively corrects the steering to avoid unintended lane departure, and Rear Traffic Cross Alert, which has radar to scan a 180-degree area behind the vehicle, alerting the driver to cross-traffic. Other drive assists include blind spot detection and an information function that alerts the driver to the local speed limits."
Hyundai has come a long way since the introduction of the Pony. In my opinion Hyundai has improved the most from all the major auto manufacturers, well done Hyundai keep it up. I will definitely take a look at this all new 2016 Tuscon if it offered in manual with AWD here in Canada. Unfortunately here in Canada (North America) in order to get the AWD version you have to take the auto box, pity.

Full article as well as further photos can be found on the Kelly Blue Book website by following this link: http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2016-hyundai-tucson-previewed-at-geneva/2000011726/
Car and Driver full article: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2016-hyundai-tucson-official-photos-and-info-news