2016 Toyota Yaris sedan - wow it's ugly

Wow after creating a very nice looking Corolla and Camry last year Toyota introduces this thing! A bloated fish out of water.

In my opinion this is the ugliest new car release of the year. Looks like a Ford Fiesta (or Mazda2) had an accident with a Mazda3, and it doesn't get better on the inside.

Maybe it's just too futuristic for me but it seems the interior parts were sourced from several different cars.
They have managed to get the back of the Yaris done fairly nicely, again a bit too Mazda3ish, still nice.

OK so here it is the Mazda2. Yes the Mazda Yaris, built in Mexico by Mazda for Toyota, based on the Mazda2 sedan.

The 2016 Yaris is powered by a 1.5L direct-injected four cylinder engine producing 106 hp at 6,000 rpm and 103 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm to the front wheels.
Prices start at $16,995 Canadian for the 6 speed manual equipped with: push-button start, tilt-telescope steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, four-speaker audio, USB, Bluetooth and 16-inch steel wheels with covers.
The manual transmission attains a combined city/highway fuel economy rating of 6.7 L/100 km.
An automatic transmission Yaris can be had for an additional $1,205. At $18,200 canadian it gets a  6 speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter and sport mode. This automatic transmission attains an even better combined city/highway fuel economy rating of 6.4 L/100 km.
The interior of the 2016 Yaris sedan is lifted right out of the new Mazda CX-3 crossover. Where the large central speedometer is back-lit, but the digital tachometer just to the left is fairly small and hard to read.

If you actually like the 2016 Yaris sedan here is the link to the full article on Autos.ca: http://www.autos.ca/first-drives/first-drive-2016-toyota-yaris-sedan/?all=1

2017 Hyundai Elantra factory floor pictures

Here is a leaked look at the new 2017 Hyundai Elantra:



Above photos are showing the Korean market Hyundai Avante, in our part of the world it's known as the Elantra.
Looks like a scaled down Hyundai Sonata, with this new "Hyundai style" grill that all their new cars and SUV have been receiving.
Hyundai has confirmed the 2017 Elantra will get it's first reveal at the Los Angeles auto show in November.

Original article link: http://www.autos.ca/general-news/2017-hyundai-elantra-revealed-in-factory-floor-spy-shots/

Future VW Microbus (Bulli) first look

Everybody knows it as the VW hippy bus of the past.

Well here is the modern day concept of that original hippy machine the Type 2 VW Microbus (Bulli Concept).


Not too much is known of it yet except that it will have an electric powertrain. From the VW canada website "The Bulli is designed with an electric powertrain and completely interactive driver interface, integrating an iPad touch screen."
http://www.vw.ca/en/concept-cars/concept-cars/bulli.html
There is some broad information on the Bulli Concept design in the links below but no concrete specifications as of yet.

http://blog.caranddriver.com/flower-e-power-vw-microbus-could-return-as-long-range-ev/

http://www.auto123.com/en/news/the-return-of-the-hippie-van/61181/

http://www.autoblog.com/2014/04/29/vw-bulli-beetle-retro-family-plans/

The new VW Microbus Bulli will be manufactured in Puebla, Mexico alongside the Beetle.
This van should be a hit with older gen "hippies" most of them now retired, as well as the modern day Eco-activists, looking to lower their carbon footprint on the world. Unfortunately if this vehicle is released this year it may not be the optimal time. What I'm trying to say is that here in North America we've been seeing the lowest oil and gasoline prices in over a decade. I'm sure if oil prices were back at $150 US per barrel this van would be a home-run and then-some.

BEWARE -- Oil change over-torque!

Ever come home from an oil change at the dealer or local garage, just to find oil drip spots all over your driveway? This is probably the result of a mechanic over or under torquing an oil plug gasket (washer) at some point in the vehicles life cycle.
I will try to communicate with you my recent experience with my real life situation. Keep in mind that for the last 25 years now I have been performing all my oil changes on all my vehicles past and present. I only use high quality oil filters and fully synthetic oil, in this vehicle's case 5W20.

The second vehicle in my household is a Hyundai Elantra Touring Wagon (i30 for those in Europe). The vehicle was purchased not too long ago from a local Quebec Hyundai dealer,  it was sold as a "certified vehicle". While performing the oil change two weeks ago I had a rather difficult time unscrewing the oil pan bolt (did not inspect the gasket). Shortly after the change I started noticing drips of oil all over my recently sealed driveway. To my astonishment this has not happened to me since my early oil changing days, bad gasket then as well. So last week I loosened the oil pan bolt and re-tightened it again applying a sufficient amount of torque. Same problem drips, that is when I knew that the oil plug gasket was no good. Most dealers and mechanics will recommend the aluminum gasket be changed on a regular basis. During my life experience I have found the aluminum gaskets to last between 3-5 oil changes when properly torqued with no leaks. Here is a picture of my over torqued oil plug gasket.

As you can see from the above picture both the bolt and washer were in really bad shape. The washer was in such bad shape that the originally once flat surface has produced a lip on the inner circle. The bolt you can clearly see is almost stripped from too much torque. Both items should have been replaced under Hyundai's certification program. Cost for my new bolt ($4.45) and gasket ($1.94) tax in total $7.34 Canadian. Pissing me off having to scrub the oil stains off my driveway priceless.
I cannot place the blame for the actual over-torque on the dealer because I am not sure where the maintenance on the vehicle was done prior to my purchase. Although under the "certified vehicle program" these items should have been changed since an oil change would have been done under the "certified vehicle program".
It's amazing how we see the ads on TV describing how "nobody knows your car like your bla-bla dealer" or "don't open your hood to strangers". I don't exactly know which brand uses those types of slogans nor do I care.
For whatever maintenance I am not capable of performing I take my cars to an independent garage. Over the last 28 years I have developed a trusting relationship with my independent mechanics Nick and Lazo at Outremont Garage here in Montreal. Knowing full well that whatever maintenance is requested on my cars it will be done to my satisfaction.
I am not saying that all dealers are "bad" I just prefer a more personal relationship. Hanging out at the shop, good explanations, being offered a choice of products in all repair situations. Most times after market or rebuilt products are cheaper and are not offered at the dealer level. For those who have been reading my previous blogs you know I am all about "choice of products"
The final decision is yours.

NEW 2015 Performance tires

There are six new performance tires for 2015, the summary review and article are provided by auto123.com

• Yokohama Advan Sport A/S V405 (high-performance): Should be very good on dry and wet surfaces with reasonable tread life
• GT Radial – Champiro UHP A/S (high-performance): Decent price, expected good tread life and wet-surface handling
• Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 (high-performance): Should provide good stability and be quiet for a W and Y speed-rated tire
• Pirelli P Zero Nero A/S + (performance/touring): Expected good handling and a good comfort/performance compromise
• Continental ControlContact Sport A/S (true all-season – performance): May or may not replace the DWS, should be very good on dry, good on wet. Expected to only be available later this year
• Bridgestone Potenza RE71R (extreme performance): Should turn out to be an excellent track/street use compromise tire with mitigated wet traction

I really do not like purchasing a new model tire or car for that matter, in it's first year of production. I prefer to have some sort of reliability information at hand. Others always like to be the first to have the latest and hopefully the greatest items. I'm not one of them, I will generally wait till the second year of production and do my research before making my purchase.
I have begun my research for a new set of performance all-season tires to replace my almost worn out Bridgestone Turanza EL470's. I have never been fond of these tires ever since I bought my car (stock tires). They will not exceed 40000 km (25000 miles) of wear and them and never performed well in the rain to begin with (when new). I admit I am a bit of a spirited driver (manual shift) but I always check my tire pressure on a regular basis. I do as well check the ratings and tests on TireRack.com which scores the EL 470's tires as poor.
For those of you like myself, below you will find the link and list of good dependable tires with a track history. These are the top picks according to the auto123.com article dated 26/03/2015.
The most unfortunate issue for myself is finding a good tire in my cars awkward size.

Here are the picks:
Best tire in the $100-$150 range (P205/55R16)

• Pirelli P4 A/S Plus (touring): Comfort biased, good handling, low-rolling resistance
• Continental PureContact (performance): A high mileage, DWS rating*, low-rolling resistance tire with a “V” rating
• Toyo Extensa A/S (touring): High mileage tread, good handling

Best tire in the $150-$200 range (P205/55R16)

• Toyo Proxes 4+ (performance): A fairly high mileage performance tire with a “V” rating
• Toyo Versado Noir (touring): Eco low-rolling resistance technology, average mileage, and quiet tire
• Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 (performance): Good low-temp and wet grip, excellent dry, strong lateral grip
• Michelin Premiere (touring): High-mileage tread, good wet traction, EverGrip Technology**
• Pirelli P7 A/S Plus (performance): Comfort biased, good handling, low-rolling resistance with a “V” rating
• Yokohama Avid Ascend (touring): Eco low-rolling resistance technology, high mileage and quiet tire
• Bridgestone Turanza Serenity + (touring): Quiet, comfort biased, good handling
• Bridgestone Driveguard (touring): Comfort biased, good handling, quiet runflat replacement 

Best tire: $225 + (P225/45R17)

• Michelin Pilot Super Sport (summer performance): Fairly high mileage ultra-high performance, good wet traction    
• Michelin Pilot A/S 3 (all-season performance): Good low temp and wet grip, excellent dry, strong lateral grip
• Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS (all-season performance): Quiet, comfort biased, superior handling
• Yokohama ADVAN Sport V105 (summer performance): Ultra-high performance, decent wet traction    
• Toyo Proxes T1 Sport (high performance): Good handling, generous footprint, and quiet

Link to full article on auto123.com:
http://www.auto123.com/en/news/top-2015-summer-tires/60514/

http://www.auto123.com/en/news/2015-new-performance-tires/60515/

New Toyota Compact Crossover for 2016 -- CH-R Concept

The 2016 CH-R Concept

It's a rather slick looking compact SUV, Toyota’s all new CH-R concept was unveiled at last year at the Paris auto show. We all know the majority of time the actual finished product will not look like the concept version. Concept vehicles have more outrageous styling than the actual production version which have a more "toned down" styling.
The CH-R will be a new breed of small crossover vehicles for Toyota. The CH-R will be revealed at next year’s Geneva auto show according to credible rumors.
It will likely have a gas-electric version (hybrid powertrain) of whatever production model the concept leads to.
The only specifications available thus far from the Toyota Global Site are the exterior dimensions:
Overall Length 4,350 mm (171.26 in), Overall Width 1,850 mm (72.83 in), Overall Height 1,500 mm (59.06 in), Wheelbase 2,640 mm (103.94 in).

On Toyota Europe website there is little new information to be found. It does confirm a hybrid powertrain. https://www.toyota-europe.com/world-of-toyota/articles-news-events/2014/chr-next-big-thing.json

Here is a 2:47 minute video from Toyota's Global Site displaying and explaining the CH-R's features.

Full article from Autos.ca: http://www.autos.ca/general-news/new-toyota-compact-crossover-set-for-2016-geneva-auto-show-debut/

15 New Cars to AVOID

The brains behind Forbes have created what they call the 15 new cars to avoid.

• They consulted J.D. Power for the latest results in the company’s initial quality and long-term reliability surveys and its scores for performance and design. 
• The rankings for resale value depreciation came from the automotive valuation experts at ALG. 
• Consumer Reports was used to check which models received particularly paltry scores for performance and overall value.

Some vehicles may come as a surprise to you, I know I was.
Here is their list from 15 to 1.

15. Smart For Two -- “tiny, two-passenger cabin, a herky-jerky transmission and an under-powered engine”

14. Scion iQ -- “the rear seat is awful, the cabin is loud and acceleration is molasses-like”

13. Nissan Titan -- "noted as being among Consumer Reports’ worst values"

12. Nissan Armada -- “its overall fuel economy of 13 mpg is abysmal, reliability is poor and ownership costs are the worst in the category”

11. Mitsubishi Mirage -- "J.D. Power give it below average marks for performance, it’s among Consumer Reports’ lowest scoring models"

10. Mitsubishi i-MiEV -- "receives a rock bottom rating for residual value from ALG, Consumer Reports gives it one of the publication’s lowest overall performance scores"

9. Lincoln MKT -- "receives below-average scores for initial quality and reliability from J.D. Power and below-average marks for depreciation from ALG"

8. Lincoln MKS -- “doesn’t cut it as a luxury sedan” "below-average performance rating from J.D. Power and a below-average residual value ranking from ALG"

7. Jeep Wrangler -- "low marks in initial quality, performance and reliability from J.D. Power"

6. Jeep Patriot -- "gets low marks in performance and reliability from J.D. Power and a below-average residual value rating from ALG"

5. Jeep Compass -- “dull and sluggish, cramped and cheaply trimmed” from CR, "It receives low marks in initial quality, performance and reliability from J.D. Power and a below-average resale value rating from ALG" sister car to Patriot (model not included in price)

4. Fiat 500L -- "The 500L receives low marks in initial quality and performance from J.D. Power and a below-average resale value rating from ALG"

3. Dodge Journey -- CR, “below-average reliability, lack of agility and a transmission that’s reluctant to downshift.” It receives low scores in reliability and performance from J.D. Power and a below-average resale value rating from ALG.

2. Cadillac XTS -- CR, "among the industry’s worst values, and we think the Chevrolet Impala offers equivalent accommodations for less money", "low marks for initial quality and performance from J.D. Power and a below-average resale value rating from ALG"

1. BMW 7 Series -- CR, “a ponderous, technology-laden vehicle with ungainly handling” "worst overall values and most expensive operating costs in its class, rock-bottom resale value rating from ALG and a below average performance score from J.D. Power. (Surprise)

Here is the link if you would like to read the full, dark, ugly article: http://www2.forbes.com/business/15-new-cars-to-avoid/?utm_campaign=cars-to-avoid-int&utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=disqus-en-tech-g2-thumbs-above-comments

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/