2015 BMW X3 xDrive28d (d for diesel power)

This may be the only vehicle you will need for all four seasons of the year (especially winter). The 2015 BMW X3 xDrive28d, all-wheel drive, efficient diesel engine, good ground clearance and as with all diesel engines great towing capabilities.

Power comes from an all new 2.0 Liter inline 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 181 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with 0-100km/h (60mph) acceleration in around 8 seconds. Transmission is an all new 8 speed automatic that helps save fuel, along with an ECO PRO mode.
2015 BMW X3 xDrive28d's traction and stability control systems work together with the xDrive system to prevent slipping while correcting the vehicles over-steer and under-steer, as with most SUVs hill descent control is also standard.
The 2015 BMW X3 xDrive28d has a 550 liter trunk that expands to 1,600 liters with the rear seats folded down.
How much will all these great features cost? Around $45,000 Canadian or $42,825 US depending on your residence.

Further information on the 2015 BMW X3 xDrive28d can be found on auto123.com: http://www.auto123.com/en/news/2015-bmw-x3-xdrive28d-preview?artid=166937
As well as caranddriver.com: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2015-bmw-x3-photos-and-info-news
All photos curtsey of caranddriver.com, youtube video curtosey of youtube (link below for those without the required plugins)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfOF9cJvARw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH0V1wDZSZc

Bad day? Korean woman fails driving test in less than 10 seconds!

2016 Chevrolet Cruze revealed (no camouflage)

We're still in 2014 but already the new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze has been revealed is being tested. The folks at Automobilemag.com somehow got their hands on these pictures.




I gotta tell you this new look for cars nowadays really doesn't do it for me. I call it "fish mouth look" best example is the new Ford Fusion and Fiesta and now the virus has infected the Cruze.




It's too early to know which engine GM will drop into the 2016 Cruze but since it is a "world car" like the Ford Focus there will be several engines which will be region dependent.
Automobilemag.com says:
"It's unclear what engines will power the next-generation 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Given that the black car spied here sports a red "Turbo" badge, it's possible the compact sedan could simply use updated version of the current Cruze's turbocharged four-cylinder. Today's Chevrolet Cruze offers a 138-hp, 1.8-liter inline-four; a 138-hp, 1.4-liter turbo-four; and a 151-hp, 2.0-liter turbodiesel."

Full article as well as 13 photos on Automobilemag.com: http://www.automobilemag.com/features/news/1404-2016-chevrolet-cruze-spied-without-camouflage/
Ford Fiesta and fish images curtsey of Google images.

Nissan's new 1.5L three cylinder engine producing 400 hp

Yes, a 1.5 liter turbo engine weighing only 88 lbs (40 kg) that produces 400 hp, it's called the DIG-T R. So forget about electric motors that need to be recharged and hydrogen cells, the future may be this little bugger. It's only 20 inches (50 cm) tall and 8 inches (20 cm) wide.
 
This little engine is being tested in a vehicle called the ZEOD RC which is short for Zero Emission On Demand Racing Car.
The ZEOD RC is Nissan's attempt towards reducing size while increasing efficiency in an effort to develop a more efficient gas-electric hybrid engine.
Nissan says that the main problem in developing the DIG-T R for the ZEOD RC was cutting down on friction, Nissan worked closely with Total to come up with better fuels and lubricants to take care of internal friction.
In June it will take part in the Le Mans 24 Hour, lessons learned from the ZEOD RC will be used in Nissan’s entry in the LM P1 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015.



YouTube video: http://youtu.be/Nv1hWjzjgMc
Pictures and information source from Gizmag.com, to read the full article: http://www.gizmag.com/nissan-zeod-rc-engine/30611/

2015 Honda HR-V, the compact SUV

It's starting to feel a little crowded in the compact SUV field. Almost every car manufacturer is arriving in late 2014 with a 2015 "urban" crossover vehicle. As much as I believe that these compact SUVs will be huge hits in Canada, Europe and Asia they may be too small for US consumer preferences.

Low and behold the Honda offering ...........



In Japan it is currently sold as the Honda Vezel and is powered by the same 1.5 Liter four cylinder engine that powers the Honda Fit / Jazz. There is also a 1.5 Liter hybrid engine incorporating a high output electric motor. Available trunk space is 453 Liters for the gas FWD version and 404 Liters for the hybrid FWD version.

There is no definite word on what will power the North American version of the 2015 Honda HR-V. It may be using the new 2015 Honda Fit's 1.5 Liter four cylinder engine that develops 130 hp (97 kW) and 114 lb-ft (154 Nm) of torque. Also rumored for the North American market is the 1.8L Civic engine and the CR-V's 2.4 Liter engine (2.4L engine I find highly unlikely). The HR-V will be equipped with the Honda exclusive "Magic Seat" which allows for multiple seating configurations, including folding the second row seats completely flat into the floor. Owners can actually lift the back seat bottom to "fit" (pun intended) a bike standing up. Measuring 4295mm the HR-V will be 235mm shorter than the CR-V model.
Prices should be starting somewhere at just under $24,000 US for the FWD model. Launch date is expected to be fall of 2014 and it will be built in the Celaya Mexico plant alongside the 2015 Honda Fit.



Photos provided by worldcarfans.com
Full articles and links -- http://www.carscoops.com/2013/12/honda-vezel-crossover-on-sale-in-japan.html

http://www.carscoops.com/2014/04/honda-announces-new-2015-hr-v-small-suv.html

http://www.worldcarfans.com/114041773569/2015-honda-hr-v-announced-goes-on-sale-later-this-year

http://www.worldcarfans.com/114041773569/2015-honda-hr-v-announced-goes-on-sale-later-this-year

http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/new_york/2014/1404-2015-honda-hr-v-announced-in-new-york/

http://www.honda.ca/future-vehicles

2015 Nissan Micra @ $9998 it's the lowest priced car in Canada

WOW a new car for under $10K, the 2015 Nissan Micra S starts at $9998 before taxes and destination charges. At that price you get the 5 speed manual transmission, 15" tires, a 1.6L DOHC engine producing 109 HP @ 6000 rpm, brakes (including ABS & EBD), traction control, complete surround set of airbags and AM/FM CD radio and four speakers.



Actually it's not that bad, just be prepared to sweat in the summer. A/C and cruise control are provided as a package on the Micra S if you choose to take the automatic transmission option for $13295.



I'm almost certain that the 2015 Micra base model will be a huge hit with restaurant (pizza) and other delivery companies.
I don't believe that the 2015 Nissan Micra will be as big of a hit with the public in the Canadian market as it is in European market. There are so many other more powerful and larger sub compacts available for a few thousand dollars more. For example the Nissan Versa sedan which is much larger than the Micra starts at only $11,898, and you get a decent trunk.
The other factor is that the driving distances here is Canada are much greater than that of most European countries.
Consumption figures are not out yet but they should be around 7.4L per 100km in the city and 5.4L on the highway.

More information:
2015 Nissan Micra photos cutesy of Google images. For more information you can visit this link to Nissan Canada website: http://www.nissan.ca/all-new-micra/en/
2015 Nissan Micra Specifications PDF file: http://www.nissan.ca/content/dam/nissan/presskits/03-13-14_NC_15MICb_EN_r6-1_CAV.pdf
2015 Nissan Micra pricing details: http://nissannews.com/en-CA/nissan/canada/releases/la-toute-nouvelle-nissan-micra-2015-offre-la-technologie-bluetooth-la-cam-ra-de-marche-arri-re-le-r-gulateur-de-vitesse-et-plus-encore-au-prix-le-moins-cher-au-canada

All-Season Tire -- The Best Tire vs The Best Value Tire (mail in rebate time)

It's time once again, the changeover from those muddy, salty winter tires for their all-season counterparts. There are so many tire manufacturers and tire models of tires to choose from. So what is more important value for the money or performance and quality, let's analyze the competition.

Since the majority of sedans sold today are compact to mid-size I have chosen 195/65/15 as the base tire size. Prices for larger and smaller size tires should increase and decrease proportionally.

PMC Canada Top 10 rated: (Canadian Dollars taxes not included, mail in rebate in red)

Michelin Defender       (T speed rated)  (820 AB)  $131.79-$17.50=$114.29
Michelin Primacy MXV4               (H)  (620 AA)  $135.32-$17.50=$117.82
Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus  (H)  (600 AA)  $129.44-$17.50=$111.94
Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S               (H)  (400 AA)  $107.94-$17.50=$90.44
Bfgoodrich Advantage T/A            (H)  (560 AA)  $121.19-$12.50=$108.69
General Altimax HP                       (H)  (440 AA)  $103.61-$8.75=$94.86
Goodyear Assurance TrpleTredAS(H)  (740 AB)  $145.02-$15.00=$130.02
Yokohama Avid Touring S              (S)  (620 AB) $103.98-$12.50=$91.48
Pirelli P4 Four-Season                   (T)  (760 AB) $105.04-$10.00=$95.04
Some tires offer H or T rated versions, one version has not been posted.
Bargain value tire rated just at 10th spot:
Kumho Solus KR21                      (T)  (680 AB) $85.68-$8.00=$77.68

The Kumho KR21 seems like such a bargain at $77.68 per tire, yes it may not be the best handling or most durable but the value for the money is incredible. The Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S will probably be the "drivers" best choice in tire at $90.44, even though the durability falls a little short. The best well rounded tire will be the Pirelli P4 at $95.04 blends the best of all the categories with long life treadwear. (also available in H speed rating)
Which tire is best for you is your choice, just remember that most cars that are fitted with this size tire are NOT sports cars. Therefore no matter how good the tire is these vehicles are generally victims of their own chassis and suspension limitations.

* Speed ratings in the first bracket next to tire are: S up to 180km/h (112mph), T up to 190km/h (118mph) and H up to 210 km/h (130mph)
Second brackets will contain durability, traction/handling and heat resistance of the tire. The higher the number the longer the tire will last, as an example a tire with 820 rating will last twice as long as a 400 rated tire. The higher the first letter (AA and A being best) the better the traction and handling. The higher the second letter (AA and A being best) the higher the speed that tire can handle (temperature basis).
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Now in the US prices are often 20 to 40% cheaper than in Canada. Blame the weak dollar, a smaller population, whatever the manufacturers want you to believe are the reasons. Maybe since Canada is more north there is more hot air they are trying to sell us Canadians.

Here are the prices from TireRack.com: (All prices in US dollars taxes not included)

Michelin Defender       (T speed rated)  (820 AB)  $107.00
Michelin Primacy MXV4               (H)  (620 AA)  $119.00
Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus  (H)  (600 AA)  $88.00-$17.50=$70.50
Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S               (H)  (400 AA)   N/A
Bfgoodrich Advantage T/A            (H)  (560 AA)  $75.00
General Altimax HP                       (H)  (440 AA)  $59.00
Goodyear Assurance TrpleTredAS(H)  (740 AB)  $99.00
Yokohama Avid Touring S              (S)  (620 AB)  $71.00
Pirelli P4 Four-Season                   (T)  (760 AB)  $85.00
Kumho Solus KR21                      (T)  (680 AB)  $63.00
Rebates are available for Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus ($17.50 each). Rebates do play a big role in tire decisions.

Speed rating information provided from tire rack.com web-site:
In 1997, the UTQG Traction Grades were revised to provide a new category of AA for the highest performing tires in addition to the earlier A, B and C grades. Previously the A grade had been the highest available and was awarded to tires that offered wet coefficients of traction above 0.47 g on asphalt and 0.35 g on concrete. Today the grades and their traction coefficients are as follows:

Traction Grades	Asphalt g-Force	Concrete g-Force
AA	Above 0.54	0.41
A	Above 0.47	0.35
B	Above 0.38	0.26
C	Less Than 0.38	0.26

Temperature (Resistance) Grades
The UTQG Temperature Grade indicates the extent to which heat is generated/ or dissipated by a tire. If the tire is unable to dissipate the heat effectively or if the tire is unable to resist the destructive effects of heat buildup, its ability to run at high speeds is reduced. The grade is established by measuring a loaded tire's ability to operate at high speeds without failure by running an inflated test tire against a large diameter high-speed laboratory test wheel.

Temperature Grades	Speeds in mph
A	Over 115
B	Between 100 to 115
C	Between 85 to 100

Treadwear Grades
UTQG Treadwear Grades are based on actual road use in which the test tire is run in a vehicle convoy along with standardized Course Monitoring Tires. The vehicle repeatedly runs a prescribed 400-mile test loop in West Texas for a total of 7,200 miles. The vehicle can have its alignment set, air pressure checked and tires rotated every 800 miles. The test tire's and the Monitoring Tire's wear are measured during and at the conclusion of the test. The tire manufacturers then assign a Treadwear Grade based on the observed wear rates. The Course Monitoring Tire is assigned a grade and the test tire receives a grade indicating its relative treadwear. A grade of 100 would indicate that the tire tread would last as long as the test tire, 200 would indicate the tread would last twice as long, 300 would indicate three times as long, etc.
The problem with UTQG Treadwear Grades is that they are open to some interpretation on the part of the tire manufacturer because they are assigned after the tire has only experienced a little treadwear as it runs the 7,200 miles. This means that the tire manufacturers need to extrapolate their raw wear data when they are assigning Treadwear Grades, and that their grades can to some extent reflect how conservative or optimistic their marketing department is. Typically, comparing the Treadwear Grades of tire lines within a single brand is somewhat helpful, while attempting to compare the grades between different brands is not as helpful.

2015 Volkswagen Golf R -- Ready to Roll

The new 2015 Volkswagen Golf R was displayed in Detroit, it shares an aggressive body kit, standard bi-xenon headlamps, a re-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes and new interior styling.



Power will be delivered by a turbocharged 2.0 liter four cylinder engine, delivering approximately 290 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, enough to propel the 2015 Golf R from 0-60 mph (98km/h) in about 5 seconds with either transmission choice. Transmission choices will be either a 6 speed manual transmission or 6 speed DSG dual-clutch automatic. Volkswagen currently estimates a highway fuel efficiency rating of 31 mpg (7.5L/100km).



Road contact for the new 2015 Golf R will be via VW's " 4Motion all-wheel drive system that includes a new Haldex 5 coupling capable of sending nearly 100 percent of the engine's torque to the rear wheels if necessary. Golf R specs also includes four electronically controlled differential locks as well as XDS+ front/rear cross differential locks that effectively serve to vector torque, all fully integrated with its high-threshold  ESC stability control that features a unique ESC Sport setting that allows the driver to fully deactivate the system during high-speed track work. VW has confirmed that U.S. buyers also will be able to order the new Golf R with Dynamic Chassis Control that can contour the damper settings to Comfort/Normal/Sport modes at the push of a button and also includes a Driving Profile Selector with a track-focused Race mode. "

The North American version of the 2015 Golf R also will be available with an audio/navigation system that features a 5.8 inch touchscreen with proximity sensors.



No pricing details as of yet for the 2015 Volkswagen Golf R but VW confirms that it will go on sale in North America during the first quarter of 2015 probably as a 2016 model and only as a 5-door hatch.

To read the full article as well as more pictures on the 2015 Golf R from Kelly Blue Book web-site follow this link: http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2015-volkswagen-golf-r-makes-us-debut-in-detroit/2000010193/

Pimped up FORD Transit with 640hp -- silly but worth a smile

Back in the 1990's TWR refitted a Ford Transit van with a Jaguar XJ220 twin turbo 3.0 L V6 engine, originally it produced 540 hp. For some time thereafter this Ford van was a parts truck for the Benetton F1 racing team. The original engine on the Jaguar XJ220 produced a 0-60 mph (98 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds, of course the Transit van due to it's weight would not match that time.

More recently Don Law Racing acquired the van and began restoring and improving it, the van currently produces 640 hp with a top speed of 170 mph (273 km/h)

For the full article follow the link to Road&Track.com: http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-videos/ford-transit-that-helped-build-xj220



YouTube video of pimped up Transit van:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=yZO7mJ81hRE

2015 Hyundai Sonata

The South Korean manufacturers are often overlooked when it comes to mid sized sedans, but Hyundai and it's sister company KIA do a pretty good job at it.
The new 2015 Hyundai Sonata will be challenging the new Accord and Camry head on. The difference between them is the value you get for the money, let me explain.
Nice standard features include Advanced Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning System, hands free Smart Trunk, driver knee airbag, modern LED lighting, emergency stop signal, electronic parking brake and heated rear seats.
Most if not all of these features are often extras or not available in their Japanese competition, if you want to call them that because all of these cars built for the North American market are built in the US (including the Sonata). Which is pretty funny because the American manufacturers are starting to build some of their vehicles in Mexico, South Korea and believe it or not Italy.
Now back to the 2015 Sonata, looks pretty nice probably not as sporty looking as it's sister car the Kia Optima.






The Sonata has grown nearly 1.4 inches in length and is almost 1.2 inches in width and the cabin has become more spacious and luxurious than it's predecessor.
"To help improve ride and handling performance, significant changes were made to the front and rear suspension resulting in enhanced responsiveness, handling and stability. In addition, steering feel has been further enhanced with the development of the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) resulting in a larger data processing unit, increased logic control cycle and motor control speed and greater steering column rigidity."
Three engines are available for the 2015 Hyundai Sonata in the Korean market, a 2.0-liter CVVL (166 hp, 148 lb-ft of torque), 2.4-liter GDi (198 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.0-liter LPi (149 hp, 143 lb-ft of torque), mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission.
Here in North America the base engine will probably be the 2.4-liter GDi (198 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque) with an optional engine in the 2.0T (274 hp, 269 lb-ft of torque).

More pictures and the full article can be found on AutoGuide.com by following this link: http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2014/03/2015-hyundai-sonata-makes-korean-debut.html

2015 AUDI TT (what a ride)

The 2015 AUDI TT, the interior, -- das ist uber cool -- hope my German is OK.



This is so cool, the GPS in the best possible location, right in front of you, next to your speed and RPM display. It's actually a virtual display, a 12.3 inch hexagonal display providing 1440 x 540 pixel resolution via two Nvidia processors. The TT will also sport two 64 GB SD card slots and an 11 GB hard drive.

That's not all, the exterior gets even better. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so here it is.



The 2015 TT uses an aluminum shell with hot stamped high-strength steel forming floors. Length of the TT comes in at 2,505 mm, this is the shortest version of the MQB platform but is still 37 mm longer than the previous model. New version has shaved of 50 kg from it's weight while at the same time making it's structure 23 percent stiffer.
Mechanically North American models will be offered with the 2.0L TFSI engine producing 230 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The TT-s model cars will produce 310 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque producing a 0–100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds.
Possibly we may get a six-speed manual gearbox in the North American market but we will probably be restricted to a version of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system mated to a six-speed Stronic automatic transmission.
Other world markets (such as Europe) may receive a diesel engine, possibly in a front wheel drive configuration as well.

The beautifully thought out interior has 15 driver assist systems including adaptive cruise control, lane assist, park assist, night vision and head-up display.



There’s no word yet on pricing. Full article and pictures found on autos.ca web-site, follow link: http://www.autos.ca/audi/preview-2015-audi-tt/

Recalls, Recalls ... GM SUVs, FIAT 500L, HONDA Odyssey ... what a week!

General Motors
GM is recalling 1.5 Million vehicles after last month's recall of more than 1.6 million vehicles for faulty ignition switches which were linked to 12 deaths. The latest recalls covers airbag wiring harnesses, brake parts and other components across several models.
"last month's ignition-switch recall of such older GM models as the 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion has led to government criminal and civil investigations, congressional hearings and class-action lawsuits in the United States and Canada. All ask why GM took so long to address a problem it has said first came to its attention in 2001"
The latest recalls covers more than 1.5 million newer crossover utility vehicles, luxury sedans and full-size vans. 
1.18 million SUV s, some 2008-2009 and all 2010-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia crossovers, some 2009 and all 2010-2013 Chevrolet Traverses and some 2008-2009 and all 2010 Saturn Outlooks to repair an issue that could lead to the non-deployment of side airbags. GM said it will repair the wiring harness of seat-mounted side airbags. Most of the vehicles were sold in the US, with some in Canada and Mexico.
"In the Cadillac XTS sedans, a brake booster pump wiring issue can lead to overheating, melting of plastic parts and a possible engine compartment fire, the spokesman said. There were two reports of fires in unsold cars on dealer lots in June and September last year as well as two cases of melted components."
GM is also recalling 303,000 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans to replace plastic material in the passenger instrument panel to meet federal head-impact crash standards for unbelted passengers. Affected are vans from model years 2009 through 2014 rated to carry up to 10,000 pounds.

Full article on Reuters.com, link; http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/17/gm-recall-idUSL2N0ME0SH20140317
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FIAT 500L
Chrysler Group is recalling 18,092 (2014 model year) Fiat 500L cars in the United States because drivers may not be able to shift out of park on the automatic transmission. In some 2014 Fiat 500L models the transmission shift lever may have a delayed effect or no effect on selecting a gear in certain temperatures.
Chrysler dealers will replace the shifter module or update the shifter software as needed free of charge. The 2014 Fiat 500L recall is expected to begin in April.

Full article on Reuters.com, link; http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/17/us-chrysler-usrecall-idUSBREA2G0PU20140317
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HONDA Odyssey
Honda is recalling almost 900,000 Odyssey minivans to replace a fuel-related part that could increase the risk of a fire. Honda said in a statement that it plans to replace the fuel strainer free of charge.
Recall consists of 886,815 Honda Odyssey minivans in the United States between 2005-2010 models years.
"The vehicles’ fuel strainers may be in danger of deteriorating prematurely with exposure to high temperatures and acidic chemicals, Honda said, resulting in cracks in the material. Those cracks could lead in rare cases to leaking fuel, increasing fire risks. Honda said it was unaware of any or injuries related to the issue.
Because the cars being recalled are no longer in production, replacement parts will not be available until the summer."

Full article on Time.com, link; http://time.com/26570/honda-odyssey-minivan-recall-fire/

2015 Volkswagen Cross Coupé (official UPDATE)

Knowing that many of my loyal readers have really taken a likening to the 2015 Volkswagen Cross Coupé / Tiguan. So I have been constantly searching the internet for updated information on this new 2015 model.

UPDATE:
Official specification information from VW Canada website on the 2015 Volkswagen Cross Coupé.
" We took the ruggedness of an SUV, combined it with a TDI Clean Diesel engine, two electric motors and five distinct driving modes, all for your enjoyment. The result? 516 lb-ft of torque, 0-60 mph (97km/h) in 6.5 seconds and fuel consumption levels of just 2.7 L/100 km. "

There are 3 official photos on the VW Canada website (2 posted above) as well as the official quote above. Here is the link to VW Canada: http://www.vw.ca/en/models/concept-car/cross-coupe.html
Youtube video of the 2015 VW CrossCoupe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAu0ayu9FmE

2015 JEEP Renegade

It's back. Well sort of. Take a quick look at "it".


Picture curtsey autos.ca

Since the Fiat/Chrysler/Jeep merger we have had many of these "mixed" platform vehicles. This is one such vehicle, the 2015 Jeep Renegade shares it's roots with the Fiat 500L. Yes the 500L.
Many of the Renegades powertrain technology will come from the larger new Jeep Cherokee. There will be sixteen different engine, transmission, and drive-train combinations available depending on your continent. Base engine in North America will be the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 4-cylinder engine that is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. This 9-speed transmission can also be paired up with the new optional 2.0-liter MultiJet II diesel engine, which will be available for the North American market.
1.4L inline four-cylinder turbo mated to a six-speed manual will be available for certain other markets. 
Two all-wheel drive technologies will be available, the Active Drive and Active Drive Low. Both systems feature four selectable drive modes (Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud) but only the Jeep Active Drive Low includes a selectable 20:1 crawl ratio.
As well for those planning on taking their Regenade into the wilderness, a Trailhawk 4×4 model is in the works. Features will include the Active Drive Low system, the Selec-Terrain system with a Rock setting, increased ride height (0.8 inch higher / 2 cm), revised fascias that are boulder proof, and improved water fording. Skid-plates will be installed to help keep drivers from having an oil-pan-vs.-rock-related incident.

Inside cabin goodies:
The segment's largest full-color instrument cluster display - a configurable 7-inch display between the speedometer and tachometer that displays information relative to the driver. The Uconnect infotainment systems (see below), Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio, SiriusXM Radio, USB and auxiliary audio via a 5-inch or 6.5-inch color touch screen. Navigation equipped models also boast SiriusXM Travel Link for traffic, weather and more.
"Models featuring the new Uconnect Access system will also feature an embedded cellular antenna that grants the infotainment system one-touch access to roadside assistance, 911 assist, and the ability to receive and read text messages aloud."
Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic alert, and a rearview camera with dynamic trajectory guides will also be available.


Picture curtsey autos.ca

Love or hate it, the 2015 Jeep Renegade will offer the buyer what many car companies don't in cars and SUVs and that's --- personalization.
You can design the looks and capabilities of this SUV to your specific needs, that might be enough for some buyers to see past it's quirky looks. True to it's FIAT platform this Renegade will be built in Italy, on sale fall of 2014 worldwide.

Short video and full article link to cnet.com : http://reviews.cnet.com/suv/2015-jeep-renegade/4505-10868_7-35835328.html

Full article on autos.ca link: http://www.autos.ca/jeep/preview-2015-jeep-renegade/

The "Salt Eraser"

OK if your like me and live in a cold winter climate region chances are that your city or town is bombarding the streets with road salts. These road salts will eventually make their way on to your automotive carpets and dry to a nasty crusty white product.
Most of us have tried to remove these salts with soap, heavy cleaning detergent, scrub brushes and even mini steam vacuums without any success.
Finally after 28 years of putting up with it I finally found a product that actually WORKS. It's called Salt Eraser and is made in Canada by Dryshine (http://www.dryshine.ca/index_en.html)
(sounds like an infomercial, I assure you I have no links to the dryshine company)

It's very simple to use:

• Remove the loose dirt from the carpets (light brush scrubbing and vacuuming)
• Hold can upside down spray the salty area until a thick foam develops
• Let stand for 10 minutes to penetrate
• Scrub area with a brush to help loosen the salt
• Once dried vacuum salt out

Depending on how old and thick the salt stains are it make take two procedures (my carpet salt stains were REALLY bad).
One can can do four carpets one time, I used one can for my front carpets alone (2 times).
Bought a pack of two Salt Eraser cans from Costco for around $16 Canadian tax in. Well worth the money.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 (a B class rip-off?)

Sweet looking ride you say, well you may be paying about $9000 more above the B-class version price for those looks. The bonus here is you get the 4Matic AWD system standard.



The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 apart from the 4Matic AWD is actually mechanically identical to the Mercedes-Benz B-class. They both have the same engine, same seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a 2699 mm wheelbase. Although the B-class weighs 30 kg less and offers more front and rear head room. The B-class has a larger cargo area with the rear seats up 488 L versus the GLA’s 421, and with them folded down 1,547 versus the GLA’s 1,235. Even with the smaller interior volume the GLA is still 58 mm longer than a B-class.The GLA 250 0-100 km/h time comes in at 7.2-seconds, respectable for around 200 horsepower.
The extra 30kg could be attributed to the standard AWD system on the GLA. The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is estimated to cost you around $38,975 Canadian dollars versus the entry level B-class price of $30,500 Canadian dollars. That's around $9000 extra to get the look and 4Matic AWD system, a pretty hefty price indeed.



You can read more about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 and the GLA45 AMG (355-hp) on the autos.ca website by following this link: http://www.autos.ca/first-drives/first-drive-2015-mercedes-benz-gla-class-gla-250-gla-45-amg/?all=1

2015 Subaru WRX (All New including the engine)

2015 Subaru WRX is all new, but no hatchback so far, the sedan version is the only version currently available. Before talking more about how great this new car is mechanically I will voice my only complaint the styling. Yawn, very average any way you look at it, even the huge rear wing can't make this car look sporty although it most certainly is.



Now to the good stuff.
The 2015 WRX is using a new direct injection 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with an intercooled twin-scroll turbocharger. Engine output is 268 horsepower, with peak torque of 258 pound-feet from 2,000 rpm to 5,200 rpm.

Either a manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT automatic) can be fitted on the 2015 WRX. Subaru's all-wheel drive system is one of the best if not the best in the world, especially at this price point. Depending on your choice in transmission there are different versions of Subaru's all-wheel drive. The six-speed manual gearbox gets you an all-wheel-drive system that has a viscous coupling at the center differential. It splits power 50/50 front and rear, it can also shuffle torque side to side as required.
The CVT automatic gets a set of eight pre-selected transmission ratios the all-wheel-drive system distribution is set to 45/55 front and rear respectively. Also has the variable torque distribution, adjusting side to side with the ability to reroute torque as required.

The 2015 WRX is now using electric power steering and a rear view camera. It will be riding on a set of 17 inch 45 aspect rubber.

Crash safety just as in all Subaru models is excellent according to IIHS and very good according to the NHTSA.

The base manual 2015 WRX starts at just $27,090 US, an incredible value for the money mechanically, that is if you don't mind the bland styling.



If you would like to read the full article as well as get more information on interior features and the overall professional rating click on thecarconnection link: http://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/subaru_wrx_2015 (224 pictures are posted there)

2015 BMW M4 coupe -- "worth the wait"

2015 BMW M4 coupe -- "Worth the wait" is the headline on the Car&Driver article and this is why;

The M4 uses a 3.0-liter straight six it can rev up to 7600 rpm and is fitted with a pair of Mitsubishi sourced turbochargers. The twin-turbo six cylinder is rated at 425 hp from 5500 to 7300 rpm, with a maximum torque of 406 lb-ft starting from 1800 rpm.



Standard transmission is a six speed manual (yeah!), which automatically revs on downshifts. There is an optional transmission, a seven speed dual-clutch automatic.

BMW says that the M4 can do 0-60-mph (97 km/h) in roughly 4.1 seconds with the six speed manual, and the dual-clutch automatic drops that number to 3.9!
Top speed is limited at 155 mph, there may be an option to raise the limiter to 174 mph.

For the first time the M4 coupe will have it's own dedicated chassis called the F82. It comes with an electronically controlled rear differential called Active M Differential which is borrowed from the M5 and the M6. 18 and 19 inch wheels will be offered using 255/35 in the front and 275/35 in the rear. It will use an entirely new electric steering system which will offer the driver selectable modes of  comfort / sport / sport plus (adaptive suspension options are available).  Brakes are carbon-ceramic, same as those found on the M5 and M6.



Interested? The 2015 BMW M4 coupe can be yours for an estimated price-tag in the mid $60K US.
All photos and full article on Car&Driver: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2015-bmw-m4-coupe-photos-and-info-news

TOYOTA 2014 massive recall - PRIUS, RAV4, TACOMA, LEXUS RX350

Photo from google images

Toyota today is recalling 1.9 million hybrid Prius cars around the world due to a software glitch. Vehicles recalled were produced between March 2009 and February 2014.
Recalls by regions; Japan 997,000 vehicles, North America 713,000 vehicles, Europe 130,000 vehicles, other regions are also affected.
The software glitch could cause transistors to become damaged thus causing warning lights to go off reducing the vehicle's power causing the car to stall and stop.

Other Toyota recalls:
Additional recalls were announced for the 2012 RAV4, 2012-2013 Tacoma as well as the 2012-2013 Lexus RX350. The above vehicles are being recalled due to an electric circuit issue that can cause the vehicle stability control, anti lock brakes, and traction control functions to occasionally turn off.

Toyota said that recall notices have been sent to owners of vehicles.

Source - CTV news article: http://www.ctvnews.ca/autos/toyota-recall-includes-prius-rav4-tacoma-rx350-in-canada-1.1682158

2015 BMW X3 -- now with diesel engine option

The new 2015 BMW X3 will finally be available with a 180-hp turbo diesel 2.0 L four cylinder producing 280 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration from 0-60 mph (0-97 kph) will take under eight seconds with the standard  AWD system. The new base rear drive X3 sDrive28i, which is powered by a 240 hp turbocharged 2.0 L four cylinder is said to do 0-60mph in a quicker 6.2-seconds. Last but not least the X3 xDrive35i with 300 hp turbocharged inline six produced a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds.
All three engine choices are mated to an eight speed automatic transmission, no standard transmission option here. 
Starting MSRP in the US will be around $40,000 for the rear drive version.

A new feature of the 2015 BMW X3 is the xDrive display (AWD display) which shows the amount of body roll and pitch of the SUV. The xDrive system sends 80% of the power to the rear wheels even with the AWD. (Unlike the Subaru AWD which typically has a power distribution of 50-50 front-rear for the manual transmission and 60-40 for the automatic.)

There are various options available under the x Line and M Sport options upgrade. 
"xLine adds metallic trim in the bumpers, satin aluminum side cladding in the air intakes, and the appearance of an under guard in the front and rear. The X3 xLine also offers different leather interior options, plus other 19 inch wheel designs."
"The X3 M Sport bumps up the curb appeal with exclusive 19 and 20 inch wheel options and includes a few other visual upgrades, but also offers paddle shifters and revised transmission, steering, and suspension settings."
All photos are from google.com images.
To read the full article in MotorTrend on the 2015 BMW X3 click on this link: http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1402_2015_bmw_x3_first_look/