all looks.

Transcription

all looks.

ALL LOOKS.
NO HASSLE.
A revolutionary solution for customers that want the
best of all worlds. NIGHTHAWK™ XENON headlamps
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CONTENTS
EXHAUST:
Exhaust and Headers
Buyers Guide ....pg 37
SRT:
2016 Jeep Grand
Cherokee SRT ...pg 18
Iconic
F-TYPE:
The ferociously fun
Jaguar F-Type R...pg 34
GS F
The Lexus GS gets
the ‘F’ treatment
...pg 32
SUPERCHARGERS:
Superchargers
Buyers Guide ....pg 16
2016 Shelby GT350
...pg 12
Performance Sedans
Performance Sedans
Buyers Guide...pg 28
ALSO INSIDE:
Starting Lines------------------------------------------------4
Area 27 Update-------------------------------------------- 19
Honda Civic Coupe-------------------------------------- 20
Subaru Forester------------------------------------------- 23
Test Fleet----------------------------------------------------- 24
Ford Escape------------------------------------------------- 26
VW Tiguan---------------------------------------------------- 31
Chevrolet Malibu ----------------------------------------- 36
Rolls-Royce Camargue - ------------------------------ 42
Parts Store -------------------------------------------------- 43
Parting Shots ---------------------------------------------- 46
JUNE/JULY 2016 CARS Plus MAGAZINE STARTING LINES
All-New 2017
Chevrolet Camaro
ZL1 is Designed to
Excel at
Everything
C
hevrolet has recently released
information about the upcoming 2017 Camaro ZL1 and by all
accounts, it’s poised to provide
unprecedented levels of refinement, track capability and drag-strip
performance. The exterior of the car
was shaped during more than 100
hours of wind-tunnel testing and
on-track validation to improve aerodynamics. It features a lower grille
opening than the Camaro SS for
greater airflow, and also a different
hood with carbon fibre inserts and
heat extractor. The inside features
front Recaro seats and a sueded
flat-bottom steering wheel and shift
knob. Under the hood of the ZL1 is
a supercharged LT4 6.4-litre V8 engine that pushes out an incredible
640 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. The engine will be paired to
a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an all-new Hydra-Matic
10-speed automatic transmission that will allow the ZL1 to be the first
volume production car to offer a 10-speed transmission. In a recent
story by Autoblog, they state that Chevy has claimed that this new
transmission shifts faster than the king of all automatic transmissions,
the Porsche PDK dual-clutch transmission. The new 10-speed has six
clutches, which allows it to behave a lot like a dual-clutch transmission
and provide lightning-quick shifts.
CARS PLUS MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2016
Porsche Unveils the
new 2017 718 Cayman
Following on the heels of the announcement regarding the new
Porsche 718 Boxster, the German automaker has announced the
all-new 2017 Cayman which further enhances Porsche’s mid-engine
model line-up. The new model marks the third generation of the sports
coupe and this time features a more striking and athletic appearance
than its predecessors. The new Cayman will be powered by the new
flat-four turbocharged engines
found in the new Boxster. The
Cayman S model uses a 2.5litre powerplant that pushes
out 350 horsepower, while
the base Cayman model features a 2.0-litre flat-four turbocharged engine that produces
300 horsepower. The new engines both produce an abundance of torque at low RPMs,
with the 2.0 engine producing
280 lb-ft at 1,950 to 4,500 rpm,
while the 2.5 in the Cayman S
features a turbocharger with
variable turbine geometry and
allows it to deliver 309 lb-ft of
torque between 1,900 rpm
and 4,500 rpm. In addition
to the increased power, the
718 Caymans feature firmer
springs and sway bars, plus
retuned shock absorbers
to improve lateral grip, and
will provide an overall better
drive feel.
DigitalFit®
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See the Full Line of
Automotive Accessories at
WeatherTech.ca
888-905-6287
WeatherTech.ca
American Customers
WeatherTech.com
European Customers
WeatherTechEurope.com
© 2016 WeatherTech Canada
Volume 18, Issue No. 3
June / July 2016
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Publisher:
Dean Washington
dean@rpmcanada.ca
Associate Publisher:
David Symons
david@rpmcanada.ca
Managing Editor
Jordan Allan
jordan@rpmcanada.ca
Distribution Manager:
Brenda Washington
brenda@rpmcanada.ca
Copy Editor:
Gerry Frechette
gerryf@rpmcanada.ca
Advertising Sales:
Elaine Fontaine
elaine@rpmcanada.ca
Contributing Writers / Photographers:
Jordan Allan
Gerry Frechette
Nigel Matthews
Russell Purcell
Benjamin Yong
CONTACT INFORMATION
CARS PLUS Magazine is published
six times per year by RPM Media Inc.
MAILING ADDRESS:
2460 Kingsway Avenue
Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4
TEL: 604-629-9669 TF: 888-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca
WEB: www.rpmcanada.ca
Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183
DISTRIBUTION PARTNERS
Audi Announces the All-New TT
RS Coupe and Audi TT RS Roadster
For those of you who are fans of past VWs and Audis with five-cylinder engines, you will be
pleased to find out that the all-new Audi TT RS will feature one under its hood that will produce
400 horsepower. The new five-cylinder aluminum engine also delivers 354 lb-ft of torque to all
four wheels, and a traction control system manages its distribution for maximum acceleration
with minimal slip. The TT RS will be offered in both a Coupe and Roadster version, both of
which feature a very muscular front end, large air inlets, a low-positioned spoiler and a fixed
rear wing. The car features a height of around 4.4 feet giving the car a low centre of gravity,
which in partnership with the Quattro all-wheel drive system, will allow it to feel as if it’s on
rails when in a corner. The car is started directly from the steering wheel, and the five-cylinder
engine is paired to a dual-clutch transmission for lightning-quick shifts that allow it to go from
0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds for the Coupe and 3.9 for the Roadster.
FCA Offering Apple Siri Eyes Free Feature Through
Uconnect Software Update
FCA Uconnect will soon be releasing a complimentary software update that is designed
to add Apple Siri Eyes Free capability to the system for nearly 2 million properly equipped
vehicles dating back
to the 2013 model
year. Drivers are able
to activate Siri Eyes
Free from the voice
button on the steering
wheel and use voice
commands to send
text messages, play
music, place phone
calls and access GPS
directions. Once the
driver pushes and
holds the voice button, the Siri screen
will appear on the
8.4-inch touchscreen
and the user will hear
audible tones. The
Siri Eyes Free is compatible with an Apple iPhone 4S or later and the update for UConnect
will be available for the 2013-2015 Ram 1500/2500/3500, the 2015-2015 Jeep Cherokee and
Grand Cherokee, and the 2014-2015 Dodge Durango just to name a few.
Nissan and Mitsubishi Forge
Alliance Where Nissan Takes
34-Percent Stake
2016. Ford has previously announced that the GT will be one of the
rarest production Fords ever with production limited to just 250 units
per year, with the initial ordering period covering the first two years
meaning there are currently 500 vehicles up for grabs. Some hopeful
customers included videos with their applications that included things
like racing footage, lighting effects, and garage tours all in the hopes
that they would be chosen. The new Ford GT will be powered by
EcoBoost engine technology and will feature the latest in lightweight
and aerodynamic design.
Mazda Debuts the MX-5 RF
Mazda has recently debuted the newest addition to the MX-5 family,
the MX-5 RF (retractable fastback). The new model features fastback
Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors have announced recently that they have
styling with a smooth roofline that slopes down to the rear end, and
signed a basic agreement to form a far-reaching strategic alliance
that will see Nissan take a 34-percent equity stake in Mitsubishi for
237 billion yen, which converts to around $2.8 billion Canadian. This
alliance extends an existing partnership between the two Japanese
automakers, which have already jointly collaborated for the past five
years. The companies have agreed to cooperate in areas including
purchasing, common vehicle platforms, technology-sharing, joint
plant utilization and growth markets. The deal is subject to the signing of a definitive Alliance Agreement that, at the time of writing, has
not yet been signed, but is expected to be by the end of May. When
signed, Nissan will become the largest shareholder of Mitsubishi
Motor Company.
Over 6,500 Hopefuls Apply to Buy the
Limited Production Ford GT
Ford recently saw the opening and closing of the first application
window for those wanting to purchase the brand-new Ford GT Supercar, where 6,506 fully-completed applications were submitted.
The company will start notifying some potential owners over the next
month and a half, with the cars set to arrive sometime by the end of
a unique rear roof and retractable back window which allows drivers
to experience a new open-air feeling. The power-controlled roof can
be opened and closed at speeds of up to 10 km/h, and is stowed
compactly in a limited space. Despite the hardtop design, the MX-5
RF offers the same amount of trunk space as a soft-top model. The
car is powered by the same SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine
that produces 155 horsepower.
Ford GT
Lexus LC 500
Lexus’ All-New Flagship LC 500
Coupe Makes Canadian Debut
Lexus unveiled its all-new flagship premium luxury coupe, the LC
500, for the first time in Canada at the Edmonton Motor Show back
in April. The car was inspired by the LF-LC Concept and marks the
beginning of a new phase for Lexus. It is built on an all-new, premium
rear-wheel-drive luxury platform that’s part of a new global architecture
for luxury vehicles. The bodywork for the LC 500 utilizes aluminum,
carbon fibre and high-tensile steel to reduce weight and lower the car’s
centre of gravity. The LC 500 debuts an all-new Lexus Multimedia
package and features Lexus Safety System +. Under the hood is a
powerful 5.0-litre V8 that’s found in the Lexus GS F and RC F, and
the LC also achieves perfect balance from a new suspension and
steering system. The LC 500 will be joined by the LC 500h hybrid
edition when the new series arrives at dealerships next year.
Fiat Announces More Information
for All-New 2017 124 Spider
The new 2016 Fiat 124 Spider model will revive that storied nameplate, and bring classic Italian styling and performance to a new
generation. The roadster will come standard with the proven 1.4-litre
MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine which pushes out 160 horsepower
and 184 lb-ft of torque for the Classica and Lusso models, while
the Abarth model gets 164 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. All
models are available with a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
transmission. The Classica model will feature a dual-tip exhaust,
Fiat 124 Spider
JUNE/JULY 2016 CARS Plus MAGAZINE Jaguar F-Pace
black roll bar finish, 16-inch alloy wheels, premium cloth seats, and.is
available in six colours. The Lusso model builds on the Classica and
adds standard 17-inch alloy wheels, a silver-painted A-pillar header,
and a dual-tip chrome exhaust. The top-of-the-line Abarth model will
offer a sportier driving experience with its front and rear Bilstein sport
suspension, mechanical limited-slip differential, front strut tower bar
and Sport mode selector. The Fiat 124 Spider models are set to arrive
in the summer of this year.
offer performance-oriented yet highly efficient vehicles. The display
prominently featured the 919 Hybrid race car, which used hybrid
technology to win the 24h of Le Mans 2015 and the FIA World Endurance Manufacturers’ Championship of 2015, and the Cayenne
S E-Hybrid that features a hybrid drivetrain system but still boasts
tons of power. At the most recent event at the Richmond Centre
mall in late May, Porsche Marketing Planning and Product Manager
Jonathan Thomson was on hand to answer any and all questions
and informed us that of all the Cayenne sales in Canada this past
10% of them were the Cayenne S E-Hybrid model. This should
Two New Jaguar SVR Performance year,
come as no surprise as it features the same great looks as any other
Models Reportedly in the Works
Cayenne, and has even tested better in a straight line than the regular
According to a report from Car and Driver, Jaguar Land Rover’s all-gasoline powered Cayenne S. Also featured was a video on the
Special Vehicle Operations division is working on two new SVR Mission E concept vehicle that is an all-electric sports car that defines
performance models. Firstly, the F-Pace crossover which currently Porsche’s vision of e-mobility.
has a supercharged V6 engine with 380 horsepower as
the top of the range model. The plan is to reportedly slot
in the company’s supercharged V8 motor under the hood
that would produce more than 500 horsepower which would
represent a significant bump. The other vehicle that could
possibly see the SVR treatment would be the XE sedan,
which would immediately step up to take on the likes of
the BMW M3 and Mercedes AMG C63 with the same 5.0L
supercharged V8 engine. The current F-Type SVR sees
a 25 horsepower increase over the second most powerful
option in the model range. Nothing yet has been set in
stone, but we can certainly keep our fingers crossed that
Jaguar Land Rover will pull the trigger.
Porsche’s E-Performance
Display Educates
Consumers on Highly Efficient
Performance Products
Over the last few months, Porsche Canada has been taking their E-Performance display across the country as a
way to educate consumers on the company’s pledge to
10 CARS PLUS MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2016
FIRST DRIVE: 2016 FORD SHELBY GT350
World-Class
Performance
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
equipment. In fact, the car is a carefully engineered automobile that
has been painstakingly designed to deliver world-class performance
he Shelby name is synonymous with high-performance, and as a to the enthusiast driver at a price that puts many so called super
result, the Ford Motor Company is very selective as to what type cars to shame. Add to this the fact that part of the car’s design plan
called for it to be reliable enough to offer the consumer the ability to
of products they deem worthy of carrying this iconic moniker.
use the car as a daily driver, and you soon realize that this car really
Carroll Shelby, the late Texan speed merchant and design wizard, is very special.
earned his reputation for race craft on some of the greatest tracks in
the world, and his legend continues for 2016 with the arrival of the The heart and soul of the Shelby GT350 can be found under the
hood. The flat-plane-crank V8 engine is a marvel of engineering which
most potent Mustang yet, the 2016 Ford Shelby GT350.
manages to produce more power than a traditional design by firing
Now, some may argue that any capable mechanic or tuner could evenly between its two banks of cylinders. This incredible sounding,
simply buy a standard fare Mustang GT and bolt on some aftermarket lightweight power plant displaces 5.2-litres and will readily rev up
equipment to create an equally capable machine, but this is where to its redline of 8,250 rpm. This engine, codenamed the “Voodoo”
you would be sadly mistaken. The reality is that the 2016 Shelby engine, produces a glorious rumble that is further enhanced by the
GT350 is much more than a Mustang wearing an assortment of speed car’s dual exhaust system which utilizes active valves to transform
this mechanical symphony into a vicious roar worthy
of a NASCAR stocker.
T
When operating below 3,200 rpm, this engine is
more than comfortable providing the user with the
momentum required to complete daily driving duties,
but as you traipse through the TREMEC 6-speed
manual gearbox and explore the engine’s abundant
torque curve above that marker the GT350 really
comes to life.
Acceleration is visceral as the engine pulls with
enough authority to push the driver and passengers deep into their seats, especially if you choose
to utilize the standard Launch Control program or
Electronic Line Lock features. What sets this car
apart is that there seems to be an almost endless
supply of torque available, and as the needle on the
tachometer climbs, the engine just continues to pull
you forward along your chosen trajectory. And this
quickly to my inputs, as are the pedals, but all controls still provide
sufficient resistance feedback to communicate with the driver and help
maintain and inspire his or her confidence in the equipment.
The same confidence comes along with this car’s brake package,
which is comprised of massive, cross-drilled, two-piece rotors sourced
from the wizards of stopping at Brembo. I will be the first to admit that
these big binders hold up to constant abuse, are resistant to fade, and
produced stopping power forceful enough to loosen your fillings.
Visually, there is no mistaking that the car shares many of its styling
cues with lesser Ford Mustang models, but upon closer inspection you
will notice that the Shelby is lower, wider, and much more aggressive
looking. It almost looks like it is ready to pounce, as it sits back on
its wide fenders which quickly draw the eye to a full complement of
aerodynamic aids that were carefully integrated into the design after
much work was done in the wind tunnel. The Shelby GT350 features
car tracks as well as it hustles, as it rides on a lightweight chassis unique front and rear fascias, a bold front splitter, exaggerated rocker
equipped with ultra-sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires mounted to
featherweight aluminum wheels which are directed by an advanced Base price: . ................................................................. $62,599
suspension setup.
Price as tested: . ....................................................... $74,349
The optional Ford MagneRide damping system has been designed
to constantly monitor the action and has the capability to adjust
itself thousands of times per second to produce a dynamic driving
experience. In fact, Ford’s engineering team has carefully selected
suspension components so that the springs, sway bars and dampers
all work together with the precision of a fine watch. There are also five
Selectable Drive Modes available - Normal, Sport, Weather, Track and
Drag - to allow the driver to optimize the car’s handling, traction and
response parameters to best meet road and weather conditions.
Type: . ........................ 2-door, 4-passenger performance coupe
During my time behind the wheel carving up secret back roads and
lofty mountain passes I found the steering to be light enough to react
Fuel consumption (L/100km): ............. City: 16.9 / Hwy: 11.0
Layout: ......................................Front engine / rear-wheel drive
Engine: .................................5.2L, DOHC, Flat Plane Crank V8
Power: ....................................................... 526 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): . ............................................. 429 @ 7,250 rpm
Transmission: ................................TREMEC 6-speed manual
Curb weight: ............................................................... 1,705 kg
JUNE/JULY 2016 CARS Plus MAGAZINE 13
panels and a functional rear valance with an integrated diffuser.
The look is the perfect melding of track weapon and pro-touring muscle, and gives the car a heavy dose of curb appeal
to go along with its outstanding performance and handling
capabilities.
The interior largely resembles that of a Mustang GT, but
the car does get special Recaro sport seats complete with
synthetic suede accents, suede door inserts, special door
sills and badges, as well as an Alcantara-wrapped steering
wheel. A 330-km/h speedometer, 9,000-rpm tachometer, and
the company’s Track Apps suite of performance gauges and
timers are all onboard to keep the driver informed of the car’s
performance.
Add to this the fact that the GT350 comes equipped with a
host of comfort and safety goodies, as well as Ford’s SYNC
and MyKey systems, and it becomes even easier to justify its
seemingly lofty price. There are a couple of big ticket option
package bundles available including a Track Package ($8,100)
and a Technology Package ($9,400) to further enhance your
Shelby, as well as a long list of stand-alone options like navigation, dual-zone climate control, SYNC-3 and leather trimmed
seating surfaces.
Just in case the Shelby GT350 is not quite extreme enough
for your needs, Ford offers an even angrier model, the Shelby
GT350 R ($79,499) which comes standard with the Track
Package. The GT350 R benefits from a number of equipment
upgrades to allow it to earn the title of the ultimate-handling
Mustang ever. This super muscle car employs the same
powertrain as the GT350, but the chassis has been further
tuned to make optimal use of the special carbon-fibre wheels
wrapped in more aggressive Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
The GT350 R also benefits from the addition of a downforcegenerating, trunk-mounted rear wing and a larger front splitter.
In an effort to give the R model a slight performance edge,
the car is stripped of its rear seats, air-conditioning, floor mats
and audio system to reduce overall weight by a significant 50
kilograms.
If ever there was a car that was capable of reigniting your love
for the act of driving, it is this car.
PRODUCTS: SUPERCHARGERS
BUYERS’ GUIDE
Chevrolet Performance LSA Supercharger
Description: The Chevrolet Performance LSA Supercharger kit uses Eaton Twin-Vortices,
high-helix rotors that yield a 9-psi boost for your engine with 1.9 litres of displacement. It is
the same supercharger that is featured on the ZL1 Camaro and comes with a supercharger
intake, fuel injectors, cast cover, intercooler, front pulley, throttle body and gasket set.
Specifications: Fit engines with rectangular-port (L92-style) cylinder heads.
Applications: For use with Chevrolet LSX engines.
Website: www.chevrolet.com/performance
Edelbrock E-Force Superchargers for Chrysler HEMI
Description: Edelbrock’s E-Force supercharger systems provide maximum flow, minimum
temperature rise, quiet operation and reliability. They include individual 7-inch long intake
runners that allow for maximum low end torque and great drivability, and have minimum air
restriction in and out of the supercharger for optimal flow.
Specifications: Available in a Stage 1 – Street Systems, Stage 2 – Track System, and
Stage 3 – Pro-Tuner System.
Applications: For Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum
equipped with a 5.7L, 6.1L or 6.4L HEMI engine.
Website: www.edelbrock.com
Ford Racing 2015-2016 Mustang GT Supercharger Kit
Description: Ford Racing’s Supercharger kit for the 2015-2016 Mustang features a 2.3L
Twin Vortices (TVS) supercharger assembly with high-flow inlet and outlet ports that enhance
thermal efficiency, which enables greater volumetric capacity at higher RPM. Additionally, it
includes a lower intake manifold, dual 60mm electronic throttle body and fuel rails, to name
a few.
Specifications: Produces 670 horsepower.
Applications: For 2015-2016 Ford Mustang GT.
Website: www.performanceparts.ford.com
Magnuson TVS2300 Supercharger Kit for 2016 Camaro
Description: Magnuson’s TVS2300 Supercharger kit for the 2016 Camaro significantly
boosts the power output of your vehicle while retaining factory-like drivability, fuel economy
and reliability. Besides peak horsepower and torque, this system offers enhanced under-thecurve power gains delivering instantaneous boost and torque upon demand.
Specifications: Pushes power to 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.
Applications: For all-new 2016 Chevrolet Camaro.
Website: www.magnusonproducts.com
Paxton Supercharger System for SRT-10 Viper
Description: Paxton’s Viper SRT-10 supercharging system is a bolt-on package that features
the NOVI 2000 gear-driven centrifugal supercharger and integrated air-to-water dual pass
charge cooler. It also features a complete fuel system upgrade, stand-alone timing control
computer, and high-flow bypass valves that provide surge-free compressor operation.
Specifications: Increases horsepower by 200.
Applications: For 2003-2006 Dodge Viper SRT-10 models.
Website: www.paxtonauto.com
ProCharger Corvette C7 Stingray Supercharger System
Description: ProCharger’s highly efficient intercooled supercharger system for the C7
Corvette Stingray features an original bracket design and belt-drive system that is unique to
the C7 platform. The HO Intercooled systems with P-1SC-1 are supplied with tuning calibrations and a handheld programmer set for 40-percent power gain over stock on 7 PSI of boost
and pump gas.
Specifications: Systems give choice of vertical or horizontal-mounted intercooler.
Applications: For 2014-2016 C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.
Website: www.procharger.com
ProCharger Dodge Challenger R/T Supercharger System
Description: ProCharger’s intercooled system for the Dodge Challenger R/T with the 5.7L
HEMI engine provides cool charger air temperatures for large power gains, and feature the P1SC-1 ProCharger with self-contained oiling, billet impeller and billet gear cases standard.
Specifications: Produces a gain of 160+ horsepower with a conservative 7 PSI.
Applications: For 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L.
Website: www.procharger.com
Roush Phase 1 R2300 TVS Supercharger
Description: Roush and Ford Racing have teamed up to develop a calibrated supercharger
system for the 2015-2016 Ford Mustang 5.0L V8 that pushes the power output up to 670
horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque. The Phase 1 Calibrated supercharger kit is part of the
TVS line of superchargers that feature twin four-lobe rotors that are twisted 160-degrees.
Specifications: With system, vehicle will produce 670 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of
torque.
Applications: For 2015-2016 Ford Mustang 5.0L V8.
Website: www.roushperformance.com
SLP TVS2300 Stage 1 Supercharger Package
Description: SLP’s TVS2300 Supercharger is now available for the 2010-2015 Camaro
and is designed to increase power up to 575 horsepower with the manual transmission and
550 horsepower with the automatic transmission. The supercharger features Eaton’s TVS
technology rotating assembly with four-lobe rotors twisted at 160-degrees.
Specifications: Intake manifold ports are port-matched to the cylinder head ports for
greater air flow.
Applications: For 2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro V8.
Website: www.slponline.com
Vortech Supercharger System for 2015-2016 Mustang
Description: Vortech’s Supercharger system for the sixth-gen Mustang features the V-3
centrifugal supercharger with air-to-air charge cooler which generates little heat, meaning
drive power is reduced and more net power is produced. A tuner kit is recommended and the
complete system includes fuel system upgrade with fuel rail spacers and high-flow replacement fuel injectors.
Specifications: Boosts power to 630 horsepower and 483 lb-ft of torque with 7.5-8.5
PSI.
Website: www.vortechsuperchargers.com
Vortech Supercharger System for Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ
Description: Vortech’s Supercharger Systems for the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ include a
calibration upgrade and all necessary fuel components including a replacement MAP sensor
and Ecutek programmer to re-flash the ECU with a custom calibration for 91-octane fuel. A
gear-driven V-3 H67B centrifugal supercharger that has been specifically designed for the
Boxer engine is featured.
Specifications: Boosts power to 294 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque with 9 PSI.
Applications: For 2013-2016 Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S.
Website: www.vortechsuperchargers.com
ROAD TEST: JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE SRT
by Jordan Allan
Base MSRP: ........................................................ $71,695
Type of vehicle: . .......... Front-engine, AWD, 4-door SUV
Engine: ................................ 6.4L 16-valve OHV HEMI V8
Transmission: ............................................ 8-speed auto
Power: .............................................. 475 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: . .........................................470 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm
Curb weight: . .....................................5,104 lb / 2,135 kg
Fuel consumption (city/hwy): ......... 18.5 / 12.5L /100 km
ypically, when you think of a Jeep, the first thing that comes to
T
mind is a vehicle blazing through trails that is just as capable
off the road as it is on it. Over the last number of years, Jeep has
System’s dial that offers different driving modes that adjust vehicle
parameters to optimize the set up for ultimate performance given
your current driving situation. Five modes can be selected includoffered a model that, while performing admirably well off-road, now ing Tow, Snow, Auto, Sport and Track, all of which trigger different
appears to have as its main purpose going much faster on it. First settings when it comes to the suspension, transmission, engine,
introduced back in 2006 as the Grand Cherokee SRT8, the current and stability control.
2016 Grand Cherokee SRT sports the same powertrain as the
Dodge Challenger SRT 392 and provides you with everything you Under the hood you’ll find a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine that is used
love about owning an SUV, but with the capability to perform more throughout the FCA lineup and pushes out an impressive 475
and more like a muscle car.
horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels thanks to the
Quadra-Trac active-on-demand 4WD system. The engine is paired
The exterior of the Grand Cherokee SRT boasts the same overall to an 8-speed transmission that can be controlled with steering wheel
good looks as non-SRT versions such as the signature seven-slot paddle shifters, which is a great way to get those RPMs up and listen
grille, but throws in a few extras that definitely distinguish the SRT to the incredible exhaust note produced by the ferocious V8.
as something unique. For starters, the headlamps feature a black
background that give the front end a more aggressive look while Before I got behind the wheel of the Grand Cherokee SRT, my asthe tail lamps also feature a black surround to further that thematic sumption was that it would be very fast in a straight line but due to
appearance. It also sits on a set of formidable 20-inch Goliath its sheer size and weight, would not be able to handle corners at
aluminum polished wheels which greatly enhanced the look of our any significant speeds. Turns out I was only half right, as it predictRedline Pearl exterior coloured tester.
ably exhibited true throw-you-back-in-your-seat power… but I was
definitely pleasantly surprised as I took it through that first corner.
Inside the SRT, you’ll find a race-inspired interior that prominently The high-performance suspension gave me very little body roll, and
features a Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen that in addition to control- the entire SUV felt as if it was on rails which is quite an impressive
ling the radio, navigation, and climate for the vehicle, displays a large feat for a vehicle that heavy (over 5,000 lbs.). Equally important,
number of SRT-exclusive Performance Pages. These include things when it came time to slow down, the huge Brembo brake kit did so
like lap times, lateral acceleration and much more. A thick rimmed, without any kind of complaint.
flat-bottomed steering wheel sits in front of an easy-to-read gauge
cluster and new for 2016, a more traditional style automatic shifter is All in all, the Grand Cherokee SRT is exactly what it’s advertised to
located to the driver’s right. Sitting behind the shifter is probably one be; a paradigm shifting beast of a street machine. While it may not
of the most intriguing buttons I’ve ever seen, displaying a drag-race be the ideal fit for the person who is looking to load up the family
Christmas tree with the word launch on it that obviously activates and hit their favourite back country trail, it is a great option for those
the spine tingling launch control feature.
looking to have the practicality of a larger vehicle but with all of the
characteristics of a true muscle machine. It truly is a muscle car in
Right next to the launch control is the impressive Selec-Track SUV clothing… and that’s what makes it fantastic.
Area 27 Nears
Completion
Story and photos by Gerry Frechette
W
ith the final approvals granted in late December, the construction
of the Area 27 motorsport track in the South Okanagan region of
B.C. began in earnest in the new year. What started as a corn field in
sandy desert soil, had taken shape to the point where it looked like the
beginning of an actual road surface, during a visit there in early May.
With final paving scheduled for mid-summer, and the first cars expected
to do laps this September, Seibert and his crew are working flat-out.
“We are certainly on schedule, maybe even a bit ahead,” he says. “The
ground conditions and the weather have been very favourable. It rained
a lot in February and March, which we needed because the ground was
so dry. We needed the moisture in the ground for compaction.” It’s warm
and dry now, ideal weather to build a track in.
The first layer of gravel had been laid down over the entire distance, so The concept that this is a track for members who are not experienced is
the actual contours of the track were very visible, including the cambers of front of mind for Seibert. “It’s keeping the whole idea of it seeming like
you’re driving down a country road in a lot of areas, to make sure we
don’t just go down the path of building a ‘race track.’ The great majority
of people driving on here for the first time will never have been on a
track before.”
With that in mind, the pit entry and exit lanes were re-designed for safety,
resulting in a pit lane with a unique “paper clip” design, perpendicular to
the track surface at that point. All the concrete has been poured in the
pits, along with the first couple of kilometres (out of ten-plus) of walls out
on course, the latter with a new process Seibert came up with that saves
literally weeks of time per kilometre, and therefore, expense in labour.
Drossos is at the track every day working with Seibert, and admits he
is working so much it is hard to be excited. But he is happy with the
progress. “It’s certainly exceeding my expectations. The track is turning
out a lot better than I ever imagined. And I thought it was going to be
the corners and the various changes of elevation. A walk of the complete outstanding to begin with. But it’s better than that.”
five-kilometre-long track made it seem very real, and easy to imagine
There is a commitment to excellence that is very apparent at Area 27.
the sight lines as you’d actually drive around it.
As has been the case in a few previous tours the past two years, our
guides were designer Jacques Villeneuve, builder Trevor Seibert, chief
driving instructor Richard Spenard, and the visionary President of Area
27, Bill Drossos, and while they are being careful to keep their eyes on
the job at hand, there is little doubt that the excitement is ramping up as
the track takes shape.
Villeneuve, being a resident of Europe, has not been onsite more than
a few times, but he was obviously pleased at how his design is taking
shape. “This is great,” he says. “It’s one thing to see a corn field and make
drawings, but to see the track take shape physically, to see it represent
what you had in your mind, is amazing.”
ROAD TEST: HONDA CIVIC COUPE
by Benjamin Yong
Price(MSRP): ...................................................... $19,455
Type: ....................................... 2-door, 5-passenger coupe
Layout: ............................................... Front engine, FWD
Engine: . ... 1.5L DOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder (EX-T, Touring)
Transmission: ..........................................................CVT
Power: .............................................. 174 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: . ................................ 162 lb-ft @ 1,700-5,500 rpm
Curb Weight: ..................................... 1,313 kg (2,895 lb)
Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): .............. 7.5/5.6
If you remember back to the 2015 New York Auto Show, Honda
surprised guests with an unveiling of the 10th generation Honda
Civic concept. The two-door was sprayed in a bright lime green,
and many people didn’t expect the finished product to closely
resemble the teaser vehicle. As it turns out, it does.
An interesting factoid: the process actually starts from the hip
point, or seating position. If it’s too high, the driver can feel as
though they’re behind the wheel of a bus.
“We lowered the floor of the car and repositioned the engine,”
he says, adding both the overall ride height and rear overhang
are closer to the ground by one inch and 5.5 inches, respectively. In addition, the wheels have been pulled out, A-pillar
moved closer to the centre resulting in a longer hood, and rear
fenders stretched wider.
Honda debuted the official production coupe earlier this month
in Vancouver, looking mighty similar to the concept, and even
offers “Energy Green” as one of the colours. It represents
phase two of a multi-prong rollout that started with the sedan
last October, and will continue throughout the year to include
Like the sedan, the roof slopes steeply toward the rear end
a hatchback and more performance-oriented variants.
in a fastback fashion. In today’s world, 17-inch wheels are no
The Japanese automaker brought two people to the media longer considered large, but they appear bigger than they are
launch to talk about the creation of the vehicle — lead exterior due to the two-door’s ground-hugging stance, longer doors and
smaller overall footprint. Still, pop the trunk and the luggage
designer Guy Melville-Brown and engineer John Hwang.
compartment can swallow up three full-size golf bags.
Melville-Brown, who has previously worked with Fiat and Volkswagen, also had a hand in developing the sedan as well as There are three trims available: LX (starting at $19,455), coming
the 2016 Pilot, Acura MDX and Acura Precision Concept. He with a 2.0-litre, 158-horsepower four-cylinder i-VTEC engine
started work on the coupe in November 2011 at Honda R&D and optional manual transmission; EX-T ($24,555), packaged
Americas’ Design Studio, and talked about the high expecta- with a 1.5 L turbocharged four cylinder making 174 hp and CVT
transmission; and a grade-topping Touring model ($27,555),
tions that customers — in particular, Millennials — have.
that bundles extras like LED headlights and turn signals, Honda
“Today, impeccable designs are the norm. The 10th-gen would Sensing safety tech suite, navigation, wireless cellphone charghave to be something special. An epic Civic,” says Melville- ing and more on top of the EX-T’s features.
Brown, who spoke about the importance of differentiating the
coupe from the sedan and giving it sportier attributes such as The 2016 Honda Civic Coupe is available now.
a lower stance and more aggressive cockpit.
Bridgestone
Lineup
Story and photos by Benjamin Yong
I
t doesn’t matter whether you drive a sports car, crossover SUV or family
sedan — your vehicle can’t do what it’s supposed to without a proper set
of rubber on it. Bridgestone/Firestone has announced a series of products
for 2016 aimed at precisely the above segments, and recently provided an
opportunity to showcase their ability at Texas Motor Speedway.
Before hitting the track, Darlene Gray, consumer tire education specialist, introduced one of the new offerings that would be tested on the day:
the Firestone Champion Fuel Fighter all-seasons, which combines the
attributes of the Affinity and Precision models.
vehicles outfitted with its own brand of tires and the competitor’s — to allow
people to get behind the wheel and see for themselves.
A small slalom course was configured on a section of the racetrack,
complemented by a selection of BMW 328is either on the Champions,
shaved down to 50 per cent tread depth, or running comparable Goodyear
Assurance all-seasons with full tread.
A co-driver and I took turns flinging the two different sporty four-doors
around the cones, and both agreed afterwards on one takeaway — the
Firestones, at half-life, yielded better traction and maintained composure
measurably better than the fresh Goodyears, especially around high speed
directional changes.
“This is exciting because we’ve never had a low rolling resistance tire
before,” says Gray, adding the technology allows for better fuel economy Another Firestone all-season introduction is the versatile Firehawk AS,
replacing the outgoing Wide Oval AS line. Improving upon performance
than its predecessors.
in the wet, including hydroplane resistance, as well as in snow and ice,
Available in sizes ranging from 15-to-17-inch, it fits several popular sedans this tire fits 15-inch wheels all the way up to 20-inch and is H (up to 210
like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Jetta and vans like the Dodge Grand km/h) or V (up to 240 km/h) rated.
Caravan and Toyota Sienna.
Performance junkies will likely be interested in the release of the new ulTread wear is an additional selling point of the Champion, improved through tra-high performance Indy 500 summers. Highlights are a “Pulse Groove”
the use of a new tread compound. Gray says optimum performance is centre channel that efficiently evacuates water for above-average wet
handling, and stiff sidewalls that promote dynamic handling. Guests got
maintained even as the tread naturally wears down.
to experience their capability, in arguably the best way possible, by sitting
Rather than simply showing PowerPoint slides full of stats, Bridgestone shotgun in a Dodge Challenger Hellcat wearing the 500s as a profesalso set up a series of exercises at the speedway — using a variety of sional took the 707-horsepower coupe screaming down the tarmac and
around the banking corners, never once losing
grip (unintentionally).
One final piece of news is a wider availability of
Bridgestone’s DriveGuard all-season run-flat
tires. Fitment is now offered for minivans and
crossovers, with rim diameters between 16 and
18 inches. Drivers can travel up to an additional
80 kilometres, at speeds up to 80 km/h, after a
puncture happens. I admit I had some doubts
regarding the claims, but we were given a zeropressure DriveGuard-equipped Honda Odyssey
to test. In complete honesty, if I weren’t told there
was no air in the tires, I probably wouldn’t have
known given how normal the ride felt.
The full Bridgestone and Firestone 2016 lineup
is in stores now.
ROAD TEST: SUBARU FORESTER 2.5i TOURING
by Gerry Frechette
MSRP (Touring): . ............................................... $29,995
Vehicle Layout: ............ 4-door, Front-engine, AWD SUV
Engine: ..................................................... 2.5L DOHC H4
Transmission: ........................................6-speed manual
Power: .............................................. 170 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque: . ..........................................174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm
Brakes: ....................................... 4-wheel disc, ABS, EBD
Curb Weight: .....................................1,514 kg / 3,341 lb.
Fuel Efficiency: (L/100 km, city/hwy) ............... 10.6 / 8.4
he Forester has long been Subaru’s entry in the very crowded comT
pact SUV segment, and it continues to go its own way, using its ‘no
nonsense, no flash’ approach to differentiate itself from the herd of other
SUVs that are all jockeying for attention in the marketplace.
The Touring model is mid-range in the normally-aspirated line-up. This
model is certainly the volume leader in the Forester line-up, so it was
good to drive one that wasn’t completely loaded.
The supple, long-travel suspension plays a big part in that feeling, too.
The ride is quiet and smooth.
The ‘no flash’ comment certainly applies to the design, which is quite
conservative inside and out, but not unattractive. Our black Touring tester
was about as invisible on the road as such a vehicle can be – which
is not necessarily a bad thing. Inside, first impressions are favourable.
To start with, the seats were an attractive cloth, and they were both
ten-way adjustable and heated, two features considered essential by
many drivers that aren’t always both available in a mid-level trim and
a cloth seat. Comfort and support were very good for this taller driver,
although the lower cushion could have been a bit longer.
Under the hood is a 2.5-litre four with 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft
of torque, the latter at a fairly high 4,100 rpm. On the face of it, that
doesn’t seem like a lot of power for such a big vehicle. But the engine
only has to move a car that weighs 1,514 kg, so it more than keeps up
city or highway, and feels almost nimble in the process. If you really The infotainment unit in the Touring is the ‘base’ version of the new
must have more power, there is a turbo engine available, but you pay Starlink interface, which means a 6.2-inch touchscreen without navigain consumption.
tion, but there is full connectivity including mobile app integration, and
satellite radio capability, again something not usually found on basic
To our initial surprise, our tester was equipped with a six-speed manual systems. One appreciated feature is old-style twist knobs for the HVAC
transmission, the Forester being one of only a few all-wheel drive com- system, easily operated with gloves on, unlike most of the push-button
pact crossovers to offer one. The alternative is a CVT automatic, which systems out there.
also comes with a more advanced and capable AWD system than the
manual does. We doubt many buyers would choose the stick over The rear seats are slightly elevated, theatre-style, which helps with
the CVT, but it drove well and delivered 7.2L/100 km on the highway, comfort and affords a better view out of the car. The cargo bay behind
better than the official figures, and one of the best in class for this size the rear seats is already one of the largest in the class, and with the
SUV with AWD.
seats folded flat, the room becomes rather cavernous. The liftgate on
our tester was powered, and it seemed a bit slow to decide it would
We didn’t get off-pavement this time, but have many times in the past start opening after being asked to.
with Subarus, and recall how capable they are, especially with the
relatively generous ground clearance of the Forester. But even on- The Forester is really a pretty simple vehicle. Everything is there that a
road, there is a feeling of confident handling that can only come with Subaru fan would want, and really nothing much more. It’s functional and
the high levels of mechanical grip that Subaru’s full-time AWD delivers. rational, not stylish or trendy. And we say that approach is a good one.
TEST FLEET
New for 2016: The Lexus RC F remains largely unchanged
after debuting in 2015 as a new model.
LEXUS RC F
Segment Competitors: BMW M4, Audi RS 5, Cadillac ATS-V,
Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, MercedesAMG C63 Coupe
The Skinny: The Lexus RC F launched in 2015 and was Lexus’
answer to some of the very successful German options for this type
of car. It boasts a naturally-aspirated V8 engine under the hood,
and definitely attracts attention with its aggressive, bold styling and
a super addicting exhaust note.
Pros: Boasts a very distinguishing look that helps it stand out
from a crowd.
Cons: The touchpad control for the infotainment system isn’t the
easiest to use.
The Verdict: The RC F is definitely all-around comparable to
some of its German counterparts and should certainly at least enter
the conversation when looking for a true performance coupe.
Price: . ..................................................................... $83,150 (MSRP)
Engine: ....................................................... 5.0L DOHC 32-valve V8
Trans: ............................................. 8-speed auto with manual mode
Power: .............................................................. 467 hp @ 7,100 rpm
Torque: ........................................................... 388 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
Curb Weight: . .................................................... 3,958 lb / 1,795 kg
Fuel Consumption: .................... 15.2 / 9.5 (L/100 km – City/Hwy)
FORD EDGE
New for 2016: The Ford Edge underwent a full redesign for
2015 and gains the new SYNC3 infotainment system as an option for 2016. A noise-reducing windshield was also added.
Segment Competitors: Nissan Murano, GMC Terrain,
Mazda CX-9, Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander, Jeep Grand
Cherokee, Hyundai Santa Fe, Volkswagen Touareg
The Skinny: The Ford Edge was completely redesigned for
2015 so it comes in to 2016 still fresh and even adds Ford’s
great new SYNC3 system. It features bold, contemporary styling
and has enough room for the whole family or your gear while
not feeling overly big while driving.
Price: . ................................................................. $57,289 (as tested)
Engine: .......................................2.7L DOHC 24-valve EcoBoost V6
Trans: ............................................................................ 6-speed auto
Power: .............................................................. 315 hp @ 4,750 rpm
Torque: ........................................................... 350 lb-ft @ 2,750 rpm
Curb Weight: . .................................................... 3,912 lb / 1,774 kg
Fuel Consumption: .................... 13.8 / 9.8 (L/100 km – City/Hwy)
New for 2016: The Fit is completely unchanged after undergoing
a complete redesign for the 2015 model year.
Pros: The ride was smooth and the interior was very spacious.
Cons: The Auto Park feature took longer than expected.
The Verdict: The Edge is in a very competitive segment but
we believe it does enough things very well that it should be one
of the top options to look at when purchasing in this class.
HONDA FIT
Segment Competitors: Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Kia
Rio, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa Note, Mitsubishi
Mirage
The Skinny: The Fit is Honda’s entry into the subcompact hatchback segment and it does just about everything you’d expect of a
car in its class. It provides amazing fuel economy, just enough room
for passengers and cargo, and is easy to manoeuvre thanks to its
diminutive size. Props to Honda for utilizing the space under the
rear seats for storage, something other manufacturers should think
about following.
Pros: Gives you incredible sight lines thanks to a large windshield
and small A-pillars.
Cons: The front passenger seat doesn’t go nearly far enough
back.
The Verdict: The Fit provides everything you’d expect from a subcompact hatchback plus more, and is definitely a strong contender
for our favourite in this category.
Price: . ........................................................... $21,590 (as tested)
Engine: . .........................................1.5L DOHC 16-valve inline-4.
Trans: ....................... Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Power: ........................................................ 130 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque: . .....................................................114 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
Curb Weight: . ................................................2,648 lb / 1,201 kg
Fuel Consumption: . ................. 7.3 / 6.1 (L/100 km – City/Hwy)
MAZDA CX-5
New for 2016: The CX-5 undergoes a minor refresh for 2016
that includes updates to the front grille, higher quality materials
used for the interior, and an improvement in fuel economy.
Segment Competitors: Jeep Cherokee, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage,
Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4,
Volkswagen Tiguan.
The Skinny: The Mazda CX-5 finds itself in a heavily populated
segment with just about every auto manufacturer producing an
offering. The CX-5 does a great job of standing out from the
crowd with its great looks, practicality and driving experience
that feels more like a car than SUV.
Pros: Definitely one of the better looking options in its class.
Price: . ............................................................... $22,995 (MSRP)
Engine: . ................... SKYACTIV-G 2.5L DOHC 16-Valve inline-4
Trans: ...................................................................... 6-speed auto
Power: ........................................................ 184 hp @ 5,700 rpm
Torque: . .................................................... 185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Curb Weight: . ................................................3,591 lb / 1,629 kg
New for 2016: The Altima underwent an extensive mid-cycle
refresh for 2016 and now features Nissan’s Energetic Flow design language as seen on the Murano and Maxima. A few safety
features are also added.
Cons: Still have a hard time wrapping our heads around the
rotating knob that controls infotainment.
The Verdict: The CX-5 was Mazda’s first model to carry its
new design theme and it has done so admirably by providing a
practical, safe, and fun driving experience that should allow it
to appeal to a wide array of consumers.
NISSAN ALTIMA
Segment Competitors: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry,
Mazda6, Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat, Subaru Legacy, Chrysler 200
The Skinny: The mid-cycle redesign of the Altima leaves it looking somewhat like a shrunken down version of the Maxima which
is definitely to be taken as a compliment, as both feature bold,
distinguishing styling that will definitely catch a few looks.
Pros: Given that we liked the new-look Maxima, the Altima was
a big hit with us styling-wise.
Cons: The interior isn’t quite as captivating as some of its main
competitors.
The Verdict: Although the Altima doesn’t necessarily excel in
any one area, it also shows no major deficiencies which, when
combined with a great new look, will definitely put it in the minds
of those looking for a car in this class.
Price: . ............................................................... $23,998 (MSRP)
Engine: . ..........................................2.5L DOHC 16-valve inline-4
Trans: ........................................................................Xtronic CVT
Power: ........................................................ 182 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Torque: . .................................................... 251 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Curb Weight: . ................................................3,258 lb / 1,478 kg
DODGE DURANGO
New for 2016: The V6 engine gains automatic stop-start system
and there is a new Sport mode standard on all models.
Segment Competitors: Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Buick
Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, GMC Acadia, Mazda
CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander
The Skinny: The Dodge Durango is a versatile three-row mid-size
SUV that features great styling both inside and out and provides
an overall pleasant driving experience. The popular 5.7L HEMI is
offered but our SXT AWD model equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar
V6 engine showed very well.
Pros: We’ve always been fans of the Durango’s look, both inside
and out.
Price: . ............................................................... $43,395 (MSRP)
Engine: . .................................3.6L DOHC 24-valve Pentastar V6
Trans: .....................................................Torqueflite 8-speed auto
Power: ........................................................ 295 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Torque: . .................................................... 290 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Curb Weight: . ................................................4,913 lb / 2,229 kg
Fuel Consumption: . ............... 13.0 / 9.4 (L/100 km – City/Hwy)
Cons: Our test model featured an infotainment screen that was
quite small and made some stuff a little hard to read.
The Verdict: The Durango’s bold and aggressive styling allow
it to stand out from some of its counterparts and when you throw
in the fact that it’s just as capable and practical, it makes it worth
checking out.
FIRST DRIVE: FORD ESCAPE
Faring Well
Story and photos by Russell Purcell
he Ford Motor Company has been a dominate force in the Canadian
T
utility vehicle market for years, and its smallest offering, the compact
Escape, has been a showroom favourite since its introduction back in
2001. In fact, the stylish looking runabout is Ford’s second strongest
product in the line-up when it comes to sales (only surpassed on the sales
floor by the Ford F-150) having sold over 47,000 units in 2015.
For model year 2017, the Ford Escape features revised styling to bring
it more in line with that of its larger brethren – notably the Edge - and the
aerodynamic efficiency of its new skin is such that it cuts through the air
with less turbulence, leading to improved fuel economy and reducing the
amount of wind noise entering the passenger cabin. In an effort to further
enhance passenger comfort, Ford’s design team has employed the use
of acoustic glass, as well as improved the quality of both the window
seals and insulation.
The product planning team at Ford have high hopes for the top-tier
Titanium model that is loaded with luxurious features and the latest in
technology, but they have also added a Sport Appearance package to
the menu for 2017 which dresses the Escape up in a selection of black
trim pieces - including the grille, fender surrounds, fog lamp bezels, mirror caps, side rails, and front and rear lamp unit trim - as well as stylish
19-inch alloy wheels. The Sport Appearance package should appeal to
a younger consumer, and is available as an option on the Escape SE
and Titanium models.
On the inside, there have been several significant changes over that of
the 2016 model. The parking brake handle has been replaced with an
electronic unit to help tidy up the centre console to allow for more storage,
enlarged cup holders, a more substantial armrest, and a USB outlet.
The design of the dash itself looks similar to that of the outgoing model,
although access to the controls has been improved and the large, centrally-mounted display screen becomes more prominent. The steering
The look is modern, but familiar, as it is still based largely on the third wheel and its onboard complement of controls have also been revamped
generation variant. This means that the Escape should be able to attract to allow for more intuitive operation.
new customers as well as retain its current fan base. The most significant
design changes can be seen up front, where a bold new grille treatment Tech savvy consumers will rejoice as the new Escape now features the
latest variant of Ford’s innovative infotainment system, SYNC 3. The
and slender HID headlamps help freshen up the Escape’s face.
touchscreen design is quick to respond to inputs from your finger, and
operation is largely intuitive, especially for those individuals familiar with
using a tablet or iPad. The menu and controls have been simplified, and
SYNC 3 also comes standard with SIRI and Apple CarPlay integration,
as well as Android Auto for users in that camp.
The 2017 Escape also offers SYNC Connect technology as an available
option on Escape SE and as standard equipment on the Titanium model.
SYNC Connect gives FordPass members remote access to their vehicle
from their personal mobile device. Users can use this clever platform to
lock, unlock and locate their Escape, as well as schedule remote starts
and check fuel level.
There are three trim levels to choose from - S, SE, and Titanium. The entry
level S model carries an MSRP of $25,099, while the mid-range SE warrants $27,599, and the top-tier Titanium is $33,799. The S model is only
available in front-wheel-drive form, whereas SE and Titanium models are
available in either front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive form, and given Canada’s
notoriously poor roads and variable weather conditions, I suspect that most
buyers will elect to pony up the extra $2,200 for the latter.
Motivation for all Escapes is derived from a trio of inline four-cylinder
engines. The base S model comes fitted with the proven 2.5-litre Duratec naturally aspirated engine, while the mid-level SE comes with
the turbocharged, 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine (179 hp /186 lb-ft) which
it shares with the popular Fusion sedan. For those buyers looking for
a more satisfying driving experience, Ford offers a 2.0-litre, twin-scroll
turbocharged EcoBoost engine (which is available in SE and Titanium
models) that is based on a similar unit used in the company’s Edge
program. Both EcoBoost offerings feature Auto Start / Stop technology
in an effort to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
During our time at the wheel, we managed to sample two Escapes,
one fitted with the 1.5–litre and the other a Titanium trim unit powered
by the 2.0-litre. Both engines offer plenty of scoot for these compact
machines, and power is more than sufficient to hustle the Escape to
triple digit highway speeds (and beyond) with very little effort. I was
really impressed with the wide power band on the larger unit, which
produces an impressive 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque
- the highest output of any four-cylinder in its segment.
The six-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator, and transitions
from gear to gear were quick and effortless, especially when I chose to
select my own shift points using the steering wheel paddles (standard on
models equipped with either of the EcoBoost engines).
Our test loop was comprised of a series of high elevation highways where
we came across steep climbs, long descents, and a full range of mountain
weather – rain, sleet, snow and ice. The Escape never felt laboured, or
sluggish, and both the gearbox and brakes held up well to the difficult
conditions. After coming across a number of abandoned vehicles that had
been caught out by the slippery conditions brought on by an unexpected
snowfall, I was appreciative of the fact that our test vehicles were both
all-wheel-drive models.
Compact CUV and SUV offerings have become so popular in the last
decade that the manufacturers have elected to outfit them with all sorts
of upmarket accessories and comfort features. The product planning
team at Ford Canada says that based on model history, the SE trim level
will represent the bulk of Escape sales in our market, and in fact, may
account for as much as 70-percent of sales for the coming model year.
Appeal for the SE has been strengthened by its long list of unexpected
standard features, which includes a backup camera, remote keyless entry,
and a plethora of niceties that you will appreciate during our colder months
- heated front seats, heated side mirrors, an engine block heater, and a
windshield wiper de-icer.
The Titanium upgrade brings along leather trimmed seats, LED headlights,
a hands-free lift-gate, and tech goodies like a 10-speaker Sony audio
system and SYNC Connect.
Luxury items on the menu include helpful driver aides such as Adaptive
Cruise Control and Advanced Collision Warning, Enhanced Active Park
Assist, Lane-Keep Assist, Hill-Start Assist, Blind Spot Alert and automatic
high beams. Other popular options include an enormous twin panel glass
moon roof, voice activated navigation, and a heated steering wheel.
With the thorough redesign, the Escape emerges as a more complete and
more refined package. Its ergonomics and utility are class-leading, as is its
dynamic handling. Add to this improved fuel efficiency and a competitive
pricing structure and it is easy to see how the Ford Escape has fared so
well in the marketplace.
NEW CAR: PERFORMANCE SEDANS
BUYERS’ GUIDE
Audi S4
BMW M3
Cadillac ATS-V
Chrysler 300 V8
The Skinny: The all-new S4 gets a subtle makeover, a V6 engine capable of producing a 4.7 second 0-100 km/h time and semi-autonomous driving functionality.
Price Range: $55,200 to $59,200
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 / eight-speed
automatic
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
Power Numbers (horsepower/torque): 354 @ TBA rpm / 368 lb-ft @ 1,300
rpm
Performance Features and Options: Sport suspension, sport differential,
continuous damping control, Quattro permanent AWD, Audi Virtual Cockpit, Audi
drive select
The Skinny: The M3 luxury sports sedan was redesigned for the 2015 model
year and along with the M4 coupe, are the only M cars to weigh less than the
versions previous.
Price Range: $75,000
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged I6 / six-speed
manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Power Numbers (horsepower/torque): 425 @ 5,500 rpm / 406 @ 1,850
Performance Features and Options: Active M differential, Adaptive M
suspension, M Servotronic adjustable power steering, seven-speed M DCT with
Drivelogic, M Carbon Ceramic Brake System, launch control
The Skinny: the latest in the lineup of Cadillac’s hopped-up V-series vehicles, and the
first with a turbo, the ATS-V is offered in both two- and four-door models and features
loads of racy tech.
Price Range: $66,000 to $68,305
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged V6 / six-speed
manual or eight-speed automatic
Power Numbers (horsepower/torque): 464 @ 5,850 rpm / 445 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Performance Features and Options: Magnetic Ride Control, Active Rev Match,
Performance Traction Management, three selectable drive modes, track aerodynamics
package, Brembo brakes, carbon fibre hood, Recaro front bucket seats, Performance
Data Recorder
The Skinny: There are no major changes to report for this year’s offering of
Chrysler’s flagship sedan. Siri Eyes-Free functionality is added to Uconnect, and
certain models can opt for a Black Forest Pearl Coat colour.
Price Range: $45,645 to $48,295
Engine and Transmission Options: 5.7-litre V8 / eight-speed automatic
Power Numbers (horsepower/torque): 363 @ 5,200 rpm / 394 lb-ft @ 4,200
rpm
Performance Features and Options: “S” gear, Sport button, electric power
steering, adaptive electronic transmission, performance-tuned suspension, sport
brake package
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400
Jaguar XE
Lexus GS F
Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG
The Skinny: Dodge continues to produce the Charger SRT Hellcat, the world’s
fastest (and only) four-door muscle car. The 707-horsepower beast on wheels
receives standard Laguna leather seats for 2016.
Engine and Transmission Options: 6.2-litre supercharged V8 / eight-speed
automatic
rpm
Performance Features and Options: SRT Performance Pages data logging, boost gauge, customizable electric power steering, dynamic Sport Mode II
setting, performance suspension
The Skinny: The Q50, debuting in 2014, is suddenly a whole lot faster thanks
to a new twin-turbo V6 motor found in the grade-topping Red Sport 400 model.
Price Range: TBD
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 / sevenspeed automatic
rpm
Performance Features and Options: Direct Adaptive Steering, Dynamic
Digital Suspension, Adaptive Shift Control, Dual Flow Path shock absorbers, Drive
Mode Selector with six selectable modes.
The Skinny: Just introduced, the XE is the first vehicle to be built on the Jaguar
modular vehicle architecture. Due to a primarily aluminum construction, the compact sports sedan is lightweight and being branded as a “true driver’s car.”
Price Range: $45,000 to $54,000
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.0-litre supercharged V6 or 2.0-litre
turbocharged diesel / eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel or all-wheel drive
rpm or 180 @ 4,000 rpm / 318 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
Performance Features and Options: AWD with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics torque distribution, torque vectoring, Adaptive Surface Response, All Surface
Progress Control, JaguarDrive Control with four drive modes
The Skinny: following closely behind the RC F, the GS has now undergone the
high-performance F treatment resulting in a high-revving 5.0-litre V8 up front and
aggressive body modifications.
Engine and Transmission Options: 5.0-litre V8 / eight-speed automatic
rpm
Performance Features and Options: Active Sound Control, Direct Shift
transmission, Torque Vectoring Differential, Drive Mode Selector, Lexus Vehicle
Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM)
The Skinny: replacing the outgoing C400, the C450 now slots immediately below
the raucous C63, boasting quicker stats and AMG-specific equipment like a unique
grille, carbon fibre spoiler and special badging.
Engine and Transmission Options: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 / sevenspeed automatic
rpm
Performance Features and Options: Rear-biased 4MATIC AWD, torque vectoring, AMG Dynamic Select with five driving modes, AMG adaptive suspension
Porsche Panamera GTS
Subaru WRX STI
VW Jetta GLI
The Skinny: Offered in several other variants including a hybrid, the German
automaker calls the naturally-aspirated, 440-horsepower GTS the “purest Porsche
experience.”
Engine and Transmission Options: 4.8-litre V8 / seven-speed dual-clutch
automatic
Performance Features and Options: Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission with three drive modes, Porsche Traction Management, Porsche Active Suspension
Management, Adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassic Control, Porsche
Torque Vectoring Plus
The Skinny: Everyone’s favourite rally car returns to the fold adding an optional rear
radar system and an upgraded stereo and GPS.
Price Range: $37,995 to $45,395
Engine and Transmission Options: 2.5-litre turbocharged four cylinder / sixspeed manual
Performance Features and Options: Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD), Active Torque Vectoring, Vehicle Dynamics Control, Brembo brakes,
Subaru Intelligent Drive with three selectable modes
The Skinny: Volkswagen has refreshed the souped-up Jetta GLI, putting on it a bolder
front fascia and rear bumper, updated infotainment system and more safety options.
Price Range: $29,395 to $36,195
Engine and Transmission Options: 2.0-litre turbocharged four cylinder / six-speed
manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Performance Features and Options: track-tuned independent suspension, XDS
Electronic Differential Lock, Direct-shift gearbox, flat-bottom steering wheel
ROAD TEST: VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN
by Gerry Frechette
Base MSRP: ........................................................ $24,990
Price as tested: . ............................................... $39,993
Type of vehicle: . .......... Front-engine, AWD, 5-door SUV
Engine: .............................................. 2.0L DOHC turbo I4
Power: .................................... 200 hp @ 5,100-6,000 rpm
Torque: . ............................... 207 lb-ft @ 1,700-5,000 rpm
Transmission: .............................. 6-speed Tiptronic auto
Curb weight: . .....................................3,595 lb / 1,629 kg
Fuel consumption (city/hwy): ........... 11.6 / 9.3L /100 km
ack in the summer of 2008, when we first drove and reported on
B
the Volkswagen Tiguan that is still a part of the VW line-up in its
original generation, we called it the GTI of compact SUVs, the performance star of the class.
There are certainly few vehicles in the popular price classes that exist
in the same form some eight years after they were first introduced, but
there had to be some reason connected to the vehicle itself that persuaded VW that it was worth fighting in this very competitive compact
SUV segment with what some would call an out-dated vehicle.
GTI 3-door with the same drivetrain (GTI’s engine has more torque).
In any case, the version we drove was the Highline 4Motion automatic
with the works, for a hair under $40K - almost exactly the same as the
top-of-the-line GTI five-door which doesn’t have AWD, but does have
DSG twin-clutch manumatic. Hmmm...
For that price, the Highline includes the must-have R-Line package with
19-inch wheels (versus the standard 18s), bi-xenon headlights, sport
suspension, and all manner of unique trim bits outside and inside. This
is where the Tiguan detaches itself from all but a few other CUVs in
this price range, in being a very capable performance vehicle that will
In terms of room and versatility, the Tiguan is almost competing more deliver straight line speed, and set the pace through the corners.
with the newest generation of sub-compact crossovers, than with the
current crop of compacts that have grown larger in all their most recent Inside, there is no doubt that you are looking at an older design, but it
generations, seemingly like just about every vehicle on the road. It’s has held up fairly well. It is here that the German approach pays divirelatively small inside. Unfortunately, interior room and versatility are dends, as the quality of materials and their assembly is obvious, and
pretty much the biggest selling points of a compact SUV these days. the seats are firm and supportive. We like the simple knobs for HVAC
operation, and the big advance for 2016 is the installation of VW’s latSo, the Tiguan has to appeal to buyers on other levels. For example, est Discover Media infotainment interface including modern 6.33-inch
its overall performance ranks up there near the top of the class. Since touchscreen. The back seat and cargo areas are tight for space, but
the beginning, it has had VW’s ubiquitous 2.0-litre turbo four cylinder, at least the seats slide back and forth so that you can add either leg
in at least a couple of generations, which led to it being compared to room or luggage room, one at the expense of the other.
the similarly-powered GTI, then and now. We have always felt that
this engine’s output (200 hp, 207 lb-ft as low as 1,700 rpm) has been The upcoming 2017 Tiguan looks to be a thoroughly modern compact
conservatively rated, as the Tiguan drives like it has more power.
SUV, but in the meantime, this is what VW has for sale, and it is a different approach to a compact SUV. If its unique combination of attributes
Tiguan can be had in front-wheel drive (Trendline model only and six- among compact SUVs appeal to you, especially its performance and
speed manual is the base transmission) or 4Motion AWD form, with refinement, now is the time to visit a VW showroom. We would think
Tiptronic automatic only. It’s interesting to note that the Tiguan Trendline that there should be some good deals on Tiguans sometime later this
manual base model is some $3,605 less costly than the most basic year.
ROAD TEST: LEXUS GS F
Hyped-Up
While unique in appearance, Lexus has sprinkled in details that tie the
GS F to the rest of the family, such as the mesh grille (standard models
un things have been happening at Lexus lately, particularly in the feature slats), signature check mark LED daytime running lights, specialF department. First they launched the hyped-up version of the RC ized badging on the fenders and trunk, and carbon fibre accents.
coupe last year, and now for 2016 they’ve brought out its bigger brother:
In the cabin, enthusiasts will recognize leather-covered sport seats
the four-door GS F.
emblazoned with the F logo on the headrests, similar to the chairs found
If, somehow, details like the gloss black Spindle grille, mammoth 19-inch in the RC F. Being blessed with a tall and lanky frame, it’s often difficult
forged aluminum wheels or contrasting trunk spoiler aren’t attention- for me to find an ergonomic driving position, but was glad to find this
grabbing enough, the aptly coined Solar Flare orange paint job should not to be the case in this week’s press car.
do the trick. If you don’t like standing out — which will probably be the
The instrument cluster is semi-digital and the way in which informacase regardless — I’d suggest choosing another colour.
tion is displayed changes depending on the
selectable drive modes you’re in. From Eco
to Normal to Sport to Sport+, the theme gets
more red and icon-filled as you go from one
to the next.
F
What really stood out to me while sitting in
the driver’s seat is the car is neither overly
luxurious nor sporty. I didn’t feel as though I
was just sitting in a fancy sedan that happens
to go fast, but rather a performance-oriented
vehicle with some nice 3-D wood trim, blue
stitching and loads of legroom.
Lexus compares the interior to “the cockpit
of a modern fighter jet,” and that’s as good
a description as any. There’s the head-up
display projected onto the windshield, the
joystick next to the shifter used to manipulate
the infotainment system, and a well-rounded
selection of controls and switches on the
centre console.
Base price (MSRP): ................................................... $95,000
Type: . ......................................Four-door, five-passenger sedan
Layout: .......................................Front engine, rear-wheel drive
Engine: ............................................................... 5.0L DOHC V8
Transmission: ..................................................... 8-speed auto
Power: ....................................................... 467 hp @ 7,100 rpm
Torque: .................................................... 389 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
Curb weight: ............................................................... 1,830 kg
Brakes: ................................................. front/rear disc with ABS
Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): . ................ 14.9 / 9.7
The button labelled TVD stands for Torque Vectoring Differential, broken
down into Normal, Track and Slalom settings, and it is used to alter
torque distribution for optimized driving conditions. The dial directly
above manipulates the four dynamic drive modes mentioned earlier.
Under the hood, the same 467-horsepower V8 found in the RC F powers
the GS F. Even though the latter appears visually larger, it’s actually
only a touch higher and longer, with the same width, and about 35 kilograms heavier. As a result, the two feel equally fast when you put your
foot down. It might be my imagination, but the Active Sound Control
(electronically synthesized exhaust note assistance) seems to kick in
more often under heavy acceleration than it does on the RC F.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic
transmission and can execute shifts in one-tenth of a second, according to Lexus. Throw in some of the stiffest factory suspension I’ve
felt in awhile, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) that
links together traction control, electronic steering and other onboard
systems, and big brakes, and what you have is one fun-to-drive luxury
sports sedan.
ROAD TEST: JAGUAR F-TYPE R
by Benjamin Yong
Base price (MSRP): ........................................ $120,500
Type: ........................ two-door, two-passenger convertible
Layout: ................................................ front engine, AWD
Engine: .......................................... 5.0L supercharged V8
Transmission: .................................... 8-speed automatic
Power: .............................................. 550 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: . ..........................................502 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Curb weight: . .................................................... 1,745 kg
Brakes: ........................................ front/rear disc with ABS
Fuel Consumption: (L/100km, combined): 15.2 (observed)
when it seemed that Jaguar’s ferociously fun F-Type didn’t
Jforust
have any more tricks up its sleeves, it’s pulled out another ace
the 2016 model year: adding a full-time all-wheel drive (AWD)
system and some slightly revised styling.
Since the 2013 launch of one of the sleekest sports car to come
out of the UK, the F-Type quickly became the modern face of the
company, and has been steadily rolling out new variants featuring an
alternate form factor (coupe, in 2014) and/or transmissions (manual,
available in rear-wheel drive V6 models). Now, for the first time, the
grade-topping, 550-horsepower R trim receives standard AWD.
power adjustable seating with R logos set into the head restraints.
On both door panels are knobs that can inflate the side bolsters to
varying degrees of support. For convertibles, the soft top is raised
and lowered using a pull switch on the centre console. Operation is
smooth, quick and quiet, as one would expect from a Jaguar.
What isn’t quiet, however, is the engine, and that’s a wonderful thing.
A strong case could be made for buyers to choose a droptop over a
coupe for this very reason — the F-Type howls like a startled jungle
cat whenever the gas pedal is pressed, and without a roof overhead
the sound seemingly comes from every direction.
But first, a little on its appearance. Journalists, enthusiasts and even
casual onlookers alike have commented time and time again on
simply how beautiful the vehicle is. When it was first released, Ian
Callum, director of design at Jaguar, likened the styling to a narrative,
saying, “A piece of design should tell a story and this is why every
line in the F-Type has a start, a direction and a conclusion.”
The above effect is magnified ten-fold when the dynamic exhaust
is activated, done so by pressing a button below the shift knob illustrated via a miniature set of muffler tips. A set of bypass valves
in the exhaust piping open up, creating an increasing cacophony
of pops, growls and backfiring sounds as the tachometer needle
rises. Pure bliss.
The story is conveyed through a pair of what Jaguar calls “heartlines,”
creases formed in the bodywork that give the F-Type its unique
windswept shape. The first heartline runs up the front fender and
across the doors, and the other curves along the flared rear wheel
arch and towards the hidden active rear spoiler, which pops up when
sensors detect speeds of over 100 km/h.
Replacing the 495-horsepower engine found in the RWD S is a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 pumping out a mighty 550 hp and 502 lb-ft of
torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle
shifters. Combined with the Instinctive AWD, Instinctive because
torque is sent to the front set of wheels only when the computer determines additional traction is required to maintain grip, acceleration
from 0-to-100 km/h is achieved in less than four seconds.
New for this year, the hood bulges have been massaged to offer a
more aggressive aesthetic and better fit around the powertrain, and Despite packing a big 5.0 litres of displacement, fuel consumption
the cooling vents are spaced further apart and forward to differenti- is relatively low at a measured 15.2 L/100 km in mixed driving conate from RWD versions.
ditions. Partly responsible is the F-Type’s Electric Power Assisted
Steering, a first for Jaguar on a sports car, which unlike a hydraulic
Drivers opting for the R are treated to comfortable leather 14-way setup, only provides assistance when needed.
FIRST DRIVE: CHEVROLET MALIBU
access familiar apps like Spotify and Google
Maps without having to take their eyes too far
off the road.
“We’re one of a few groups of manufacturers
putting this in cars. It’s a huge win [for owners]”
says Bashucky.
Further to the topic of the connected car is the
optional OnStar 4G LTE hotspot found across
GM’s lineup. Offered on a plan, customers get
either three months or three gigabytes free,
whichever comes first. The service especially
comes in handy when on stateside road trips
where data roaming can be spotty and costly.
Those who have chatted with an OnStar agent
before will know how helpful talking to a live
person can be when looking for directions
somewhere.
Safe Sedan
Besides accessing OnStar via the in-cabin button above the dash, there is also a companion
OnStar RemoteLink app compatible with iOS
and Android. Users can call up a map and send
turn-by-turn navigation straight to the GPS,
lock/unlock the doors, start the engine or honk
the horn, all through a few finger taps, no matter
how far away the Malibu is.
New for 2016 is a newly-developed 1.5-litre turbocharged EcoTec
engine producing 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mated
to a six-speed automatic transmission. Putting up fuel consumption
numbers of 8.7L/100 km city and 6.3 highway, it is second only to the
hybrid variant (182 net hp, 5.0 L/100 km city 5.1 L highway) in efficiency
and represents a six per cent improvement over the outgoing version.
he modern world can be a scary place, especially for people looking Completing the trio of powerplants is the return of an updated 2.0-litre
out for their kids. That’s why we have things like parental control on turbo four cylinder making 250 hp, managed by GM’s first eight-speed
the computer and TV, and all kinds of technology to make sure children automatic gearbox in a front-wheel drive vehicle.
stay safe. Now that extends to automotive technology as well, with GM’s
debut of Teen Driver on the redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Malibu.
The latest Malibu is significantly larger — it’s 58 millimetres longer than
before and the wheelbase is 102 mm longer. However, greater use
Chevy held a media event on beautiful Vancouver Island to demonstrate of high-strength steel has allowed a weight loss of 136 kilograms. To
this new optional feature and other changes for the midsize sedan avoid appearing bulbous, engineers have lowered the hood, chiseled
entering its ninth generation.
the side body panels and made the headlights sleeker, channelling a
look from the current Impala.
Activated through a password-protected setting in the MyLink infotainment software, the computer tracks data when the car is started using The car’s extra size doesn’t translate into any discernible effect on
the separate Teen Driver key. Distance travelled, maximum speed handling. My co-driver and I attacked sweeping turns aggressively on
reached, and number of times stability control, ABS and forward colli- the remote back roads leading up to Port Renfrew and the suspension
sion avoidance alerts were triggered are logged and then listed on an felt sharp but not too stiff. Hats off to the high-quality perforated leather
easy-to-digest “report card” for later review. Warnings can also be pro- seats in our grade-topping Premier model (MSRP $33,795) providing
grammed to come on when a maximum vehicle speed is reached.
a comfortable and supportive ride the whole way.
T
I discovered a function that should put parents’ minds at ease while Additional trims include the L (starting at $23,495), LS ($25,995), LT
testing out the vehicle on a route from Victoria to Port Renfrew. After ($26,995) and Hybrid ($30,600). The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is built
settling into the driver’s seat, the radio was on but no music was in Kansas City.
coming out of the speakers. That’s because
audio is muted until front occupants have their
seatbelts buckled. My demo car was equipped
with the full active safety package like blind
spot warning and lane keep/park assist, all
of which were automatically activated and
permanently on.
Teen Driver is just one piece of tech prompting
Chevrolet operations manager John Bashucky
to call the Malibu “the most connected car in
its segment.” While the aforementioned
monitoring system might not be the biggest
hit with the kids, they will surely appreciate the
seamless mobile device integration.
MyLink has been given an overhaul to support both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
(available on the LS trim level and up). Simply
plug a USB or Lightning cable from the phone
into one of the Malibu’s ports, and watch the
magic happen on the eight-inch touchscreen
display that instantly turns into an extension
of your smartphone. Users will be able to
PRODUCTS: EXHAUSTS & HEADERS
BUYERS’ GUIDE
aFe Takeda Exhaust System for Subaru WRX STI
Description: aFe’s Takeda Cat-Back Exhaust System utilizes high-flow stainless steel
mufflers and features quad 3.5-inch stainless steel tips. The system is a direct bolt-on install
that requires no cutting or drilling. Dyno results using the system has seen a max gain of 14
horsepower and 22 lb-ft of torque.
Specifications: Constructed out of 3-inch mandrel-bent 304 stainless steel tubing.
Applications: Made for 2015-2016 Subaru WRX STI.
Website: www.afepower.com
AWE Tuning Audi RS5 Performance Exhaust
Description: AWE Tuning’s Performance Exhaust for the Audi RS 5 features 180 technology,
comes available as either a touring, track or track extreme edition, and has specific fitments
for both the Coupe and Cabriolet models. Resonated and non-resonated downpipes are also
available separately and no modifications are required to emissions equipment.
Specifications: Crafted from mandrel-bent 2.5-inch T-304 Stainless Steel.
Applications: For 2010-2015 Audi RS 5 Coupe.
Website: www.awe-tuning.com
BBK Short Tuned Length Performance Exhaust Headers
Description: BBK’s Short Tuned Length exhaust headers are a high-flow direct-fit replacement that uses the factory catalytic converter. The headers have shown to produce gains of
around 14 horsepower and come available in chrome or polished silver ceramic finishes.
Specifications: Designed with 1-3/4-in. CNC mandrel-bent tubing.
Applications: Made for 2015-2016 Ford Mustang GT.
Website: www.bbkperformance.com
Borla Cat-Back ATAK Exhaust System for Charger Hellcat
Description: Borla’s ATAK Exhaust system for the 2015-16 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
features a single split rear exit design and provides your already insanely powerful Charger
with even more torque and horsepower as well as an aggressive exhaust note. Borla’s ATAK
technology is based on specifically tuned attributes of the internal muffler cores to deliver
desirable sound.
Specifications: 3-inch exhaust diameter.
Applications: For 2015-2016 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat.
Website: www.borla.com
Corsa 3-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust for VW GTI
Description: Corsa’s 3-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust system for Mk7 VW GTIs features a dual
rear exit design with single, 4.0-inch tips that are available in a polished or black finish. The
system features Corsa’s patented RSC Technology that gives an aggressive sound under
acceleration and a drone-free experience during cruising. The system improves the exhaust
note as well as torque and horsepower.
Specifications: Features a 1-lb. weight reduction and 75.5% flow increase over stock.
Applications: For 2014-2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7.
Website: www.corsaperformance.com
Dinan Free Flow Exhaust System for BMW M3/M4
Description: Dinan’s Free Flow exhaust system is measured to exact specifications to ensure proper fit via factory hangers and mounting points. It has been dyno tuned for maximum
exhaust flow with minimum back pressure and is designed to provide a more aggressive sound
under acceleration while reducing drone inside the vehicle.
Specifications: 100-percent 304 Stainless Steel Construction.
Applications: For 2015-2016 BMW M3/M4.
Website: www.dinancars.com
DynoMax Cat-Back Exhaust System for Corvette
Description: DynoMax’s 2.5-in. Cat-Back Exhaust System features Ultra Flo SS Polished
performance mufflers that have a straight-through design and use Continuous Roving Fibreglass (CRF) technology to absorb unwanted interior resonance, while maintaining a deep tone.
They are dyno-proven to flow up to 2,000 SCFM and support up to 1,900 horsepower.
Specifications: Constructed from stainless steel.
Applications: Made for 2005-2007 Corvette with 6.0L LS2 engine and 2008-2013 Corvette
with 6.2L LS3 engine.
Website: www.dynomax.com
Flowmaster American Thunder Axle-Back System for Camaro
Description: Flowmaster’s American Thunder Axle-back exhaust system for the new 2016
Camaro V6 is ideal for those looking for an aggressive exterior sound level with a mild interior
sound level, and it provides performance benefits such as more horsepower and torque. It is
a bolt-on dual-out rear system with a pair of specially-tuned resonator/mufflers and pipes for
maximum performance.
Specifications: Features stainless steel construction and uses 4-inch polished tips.
Applications: For 2016 Chevrolet Camaro LT with the 3.6L V6 engine.
Website: www.flowmastermufflers.com
Flowtech Axle-Back Exhaust System for Mustang
Description: Flowtech’s axle-back exhaust system for the Ford Mustang features a lightweight design and high-flow stainless steel mufflers for maximum flow and an aggressive
sound on and off the throttle. It utilizes factory mounting points for an easy installation and
the tube geometry was designed for maximum ground clearance.
Specifications: Features a 2.5-inch 18-gauge 409 Stainless Steel construction.
Website: www.holley.com
Gibson Cat-Back Dual Exhaust System for Mustang
Description: Gibson Performance’s dual exhaust system for the sixth-generation Mustang
produces an additional 32 horsepower and 34 lb-ft than the OEM system. It also produces an
aggressive sound that will definitely turn heads, and utilizes SuperFlow mufflers with integrated
CFT technology and 4.5-inch polished stainless steel tips.
Specifications: Made from mandrel-bent 3-inch stainless steel tubing.
Applications: Made for 2015-16 Ford Mustang 5.0L.
Website: www.gibsonperformance.com
Hooker Blackheart Axle-Back Dual Mode Exhaust
Description: Hooker Blackheart’s Axle-Back Dual Transverse dual mode exhaust system
is a quad tip system that is compatible with the manual transmission of the 2016 Camaro
SS. It has built-in exhaust valves that provide a pleasant driving experience when at cruising
speeds and race-inspired aggressive tones during high speeds.
Specifications: Produces max gains of 15.88 horsepower and 17.71 lb-ft of torque.
Applications: For 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS with manual transmission.
Website: www.holley.com
JBA Long Tube Headers for 2007-10 Ford Shelby GT500
Description: JBA’s 6695 Series Long Tube headers for the Shelby GT500 feature Firecone
technology and produces increased horsepower and torque throughout the RPM range. It will
also provide improved throttle response and will make your engine more sensitive to other
modifications such as programmers, intakes and superchargers.
Specifications: Features 3/8-inch thick laser-cut flanges and is made from mandrel-bent
stainless steel.
Applications: For 2007-2010 Ford Shelby GT500.
Website: www.jbaheaders.com
Magnaflow Competition Series Exhaust System for Shelby GT350
Description: Magnaflow’s Competition Series Exhaust Systems are designed to produce
an aggressive exhaust note and reduce mass over the stock exhaust. The carbon fibre tips
enhance the overall look of the vehicle, while the system itself is made to boost horsepower
and torque and provides a sound that demands attention.
Specifications: Made from 409 Stainless steel, features carbon fibre tips.
Applications: Now available for 2016 Ford Shelby GT350.
Website: www.magnaflow.com
MBRP XP Series Performance Exhaust
Description: MBRP’s 3-inch XP Series Performance Exhaust for the Ford Focus ST features
a dual centre outlet that will provide your vehicle not only with an aggressive exhaust note but
also with both horsepower and torque gains. The cat-back system comes with all necessary
parts and hardware for installation and is made from a high-grade steel.
Specifications: Constructed from T409 stainless steel.
Applications: 2013-2016 Ford Focus ST 2.0L EcoBoost.
Website: www.mbrpautomotive.com
Vibrant Performance Round Stainless Steel Tip
Description: Vibrant Performance’s 4-inch Round Stainless Steel Tip features a double-wall,
angle-cut construction and will give that clean, aggressive look you want out of your muscle
car. They have an overall length of 7.75 inches, an outlet diameter of 4 inches, and an inlet
diameter of 2.25 inches.
Specifications: Manufactured from T304 Stainless Steel.
Applications: Universal product.
Website: www.vibrantperformance.com
PRODUCT GUIDES IN NEXT ISSUE:
ELECTRIC & HYBRID CARS
CLUTCHES
FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Rolls-Royce
Camargue
Story and photo by Nigel Matthews,
additional photos courtesy of Wikimedia
T
he Rolls-Royce Camargue took its name from the lovely region of
lakes, marshes and wasteland on the French Riviera, 80 kilometres
from Marseilles.
The price of a new Camargue in 1975 was a hefty $65,520. During
the 11-year production run, that figure rose to a staggering $171,231
for the same car!
If only it had the power of the later Bentley Turbo-R, it might have made
the Camargue a little more exciting. This model boasted many firsts
for this great manufacturer.
It was the first post-war production-built Rolls-Royce to be designed
by the Italian design house of Pininfarina, and the first of the marque
to be designed in metric dimensions. It was the first Rolls-Royce to
feature a slanted grille, inclined at an angle of seven degrees. (Why
they picked seven degrees is a mystery to me!) And it was also the
first car in the world to offer a completely automated dual-zone air
conditioning system.
shop one day and demanding that I unscrew the nameplate on the
right door sill and urethane it to the trunk lid.
As I protested, the owner replied, “I am sick of people asking me what
kind of Chevrolet Impala this is!” I saw his point: It was very angular, it
certainly did not have the expected Rolls-Royce style and appeal one
would expect for $171,231, and the Rolls-Royce emblem was a very
small one covering the trunk lock cylinder. It also looked very similar to
I will never forget one of our customers driving his Camargue into the another Pininfarina car of the same era, the Fiat 130 coupe
As the customer, your wish was our command. I vividly remember
calling in the pinstriper to paint two very thin PINK pinstripes by hand
down the side of a freshly painted black Rolls-Royce Shadow.
During the entire 11-year run, only 530 Camargues were built, as well
as one specially-ordered Bentley Camargue. The first time I saw the
101EX concept Rolls-Royce in 2005, it brought back memories of the
Camargue.
Nigel Matthews is the global director of client services for Hagerty
Insurance Agency, LLC — Hagerty is the world’s largest specialist
provider of collector car insurance and provides many resources that
support the classic car lifestyle. Contact him at nmatthews@hagerty.
com or visit hagerty.ca
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
PARTS STORE
Westlake RP18 Premium
All-Season Tire
Westlake’s RP18 Premium All-season tire
touring tires are M+S
rated and offer consistent highway performance. They feature
an all-new improved
tire structure that
guarantees a comfortable and smooth ride.
The efficient siping
and tread pattern allow for superior water
dispersion while the
lower profile design
enhances steering response. The Canadian
designed tire tread
helps to reduce road
noise significantly, and
it is able to provide
remarkable handling
on any dry or wet surface.
For more information
please go to www.
westlaketireusa.com
Race Sport ColorADAPT
Wheel Well LED Accent Kit
Race Sport’s ColorADAPT Wheel
Well LED Accent
kit combine microLEDs of all colours
into one refined
wide-angle light
which leaves you
with a stronger,
more vibrant light
with more colour
options. It is made
to fit any make
and model and is
small enough that
it can fit into the
tightest spaces.
The kit includes
four 24-inch strips
with mounting clips that will make lighting up your wheelwell easy.
The strips are able to remember the last colour or setting you used
so you get exactly what you want each and every time, with no need
to reset anything.
For more information please go to www.racesportinc.com
All-New Centerforce DYAD
Hawk Performance’s High-Per- DS Twins for Dodge Viper
formance Street 5.0 Pads
The all-new Centerforce DYAD DS Twins clutches for 1992-2006,
Hawk’s High-Performance Street 5.0 brake pads are designed to
be the premium replacement pad and are able to give you great
stopping power and pedal feel without compromising ABS systems.
They are specially formulated to produce and release only extremely
low levels of brake dust so that you are able to keep your wheels
cleaner. Additionally, the pads are resistant to brake fade and are
very responsive and incredibly durable. They come available in a
wide variety of sizes.
For more information please go to www.hawkperformance.com
2008-2010 and
2013 Dodge
Vipers have
been designed
to meet the high
torque levels of
the Viper without sacrificing
street driva b i l i t y. E a c h
one includes a
pressure plate,
floating disc,
floater, drive
disc, flywheel,
crank bolts,
pilot bearings,
pressure plate
nuts and an alignment tool, all of which are specific to each generation. They are certified for up to 1,300 lb-ft of torque and feature a
centrifugal weight system and aluminum pressure plates, and are
always precision balanced.
For more information please go to www.centerforce.com
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
Red Line Oil 10W60 Motor Oil
K&N AirCharger Intake System for 2008-2013 BMW M3
Red Line’s 10W60 Motor Oil is a fully synthetic ester formula that
is great for passenger cars, light trucks, performance vehicles and
marine applications but is especially popular for newer BMW M-Cars
such as the E46 M3 and E60 M5. It provides ideal wear protection
and friction reduction across a wide range of operating conditions,
while the high detergency allows extended drain intervals and provides increased cleanliness. It features superior high-temperature
stability and oxidation resistance to increase lubrication of hot metal
parts when compared to some other synthetics.
For more information please go to www.redlineoil.com
K&N’s AirCharger air intake system replaces the restrictive factory
air filter and air intake housing on 2008-2013 BMW M3 models. The
intake is designed to greatly reduce air intake restriction as well as
smooth and straighten airflow, which allows your engine to inhale a
larger amount of air than the factory air assembly. This results in more
usable power throughout the engine’s RPM range. The air intake
comes with a chrome topped K&N high-flow air filter and heat shield
that installs into the original air box space. Gains of 13.43 horsepower
can be experienced when using the intake.
For more information please go to www.knfilters.ca
MSD Gen 5 Chevrolet
LT1 Plug Wire Kit
Parts
For
Any
Mopar
Everything you need...
Anywhere you need it!
VarsityChrysler.com
MSD Performance’s Gen 5 LT1 Spark Plug Wire kits fit 2016 Chevrolet
Camaros, 2014-2016 Corvettes, and 2015-2016 Corvette Z06 with
the 6.2L LT1 V8 motor. The wires are precut to exact specifications for
your application and feature an overall 10.5-inch end-to end length.
They feature 8.5mm spiral-core super conductor wires with a jacket
that protects against high heat and resists tears. The terminal part of
the wire features Dual Crimp terminals with two crimps; one for the
sleeve of the wire and another one to grasp the conductor.
For more information please go to www.msdperformance.com
DiabloSport Now Offering
Tuning for Dodge Charger
and Challenger SRT Hellcat
DiabloSport is now
offering tuning solutions for the 2015-16
Dodge Challenger and
Charger SRT, but in
order to do so, DiabloSport has to modify
the vehicle’s computer
by sending in your factory PCM for an unlock
service. Once that is
done, you are able to
apply the pre-loaded
performance tunes to
your vehicle, one for
93 octane fuel and the
other for 91 octane.
The 93 octane tune
adds 30 horsepower
and 30 lb-ft of torque,
while the 91 octane option gives you a boost
of 28 horsepower and
22 lb-ft of torque. An
additional option is a
factory horsepower
tune that keeps the
horsepower the same
but allows you to modify various vehicle parameters.
For more information please go to www.diablosport.com
Xpel Introduces Window
Films to Enhance Driving
Experience
Xpel has recently introduced two new premium window film products,
Xpel PRIME XR and PRIME CS, both of which protect the vehicle
and enhance the driving experience. The films were designed with
first-class heat rejection technology and feature no metallized particles
so they don’t interfere with radio, cellular or Bluetooth signals. The
PRIME XR blocks more than 99-percent of harmful UV rays while
keeping the vehicle’s interior cool, while the PRIME CS also keeps
out harmful UV rays while also reducing the sun’s glare and comes
in a black or neutral charcoal colour that never fades.
For more information please go to www.xpel.com
EXCEEDS
FACTORY
SPECS
• ESTER-BASED FULL SYNTHETIC
• 1200 PPM OF ZINC
• LONGER DRAIN INTERVALS
• LOWER OIL TEMPS
800.624.7958 | REDLINEOIL.COM
15-015_RPM_CANADA_NEW_BOTTLES.indd 1
JUNE/JULY 2016 CARS Plus MAGAZINE
45
9/3/15 10:04 AM
PARTING SHOTS
The best attempt to look cool in a
Smart Car we’ve ever seen.
Something has gone terribly wrong here.
Doesn’t anybody notice
the car that’s in there?!
Looks like that pillar was
coming up real fast..
Guess they should’ve looked
behind them a little closer.
This cop may have a hard time
catching up to anybody.
Parting Shots is where we share those photos that defy classification. If you’ve seen something four-wheeled (or otherwise) that you
would like to share, please send it to partingshots@rpmcanada.ca
There’s a reason more people trust Hagerty with the cars they love.
We make the experience of owning classics better, with insurance, valuation
tools, an award-winning magazine and more – all created by people who share
your passion for cars.
Drive with us. Hagerty.ca | 877-922-4041 | Local Broker
Hagerty Canada, LLC policies are underwritten by Elite Insurance Company, an Aviva Canada company. Hagerty determines final risk acceptance. All coverage is subject to policy provisions and
availability. Hagerty For People Who Love Cars is a registered trademark of The Hagerty Group, LLC. ©2016 The Hagerty Group, LLC. Vehicle make and model names and logos are property of
their respective owners and their inclusion does not imply sponsorship of or affiliation with Hagerty or any of its products or services.
THE NEW
2016 NISSAN SENTRA.
Combining unprecedented safety with sporty looks, the new
2016 Sentra® is nothing short of spectacular. With stylish
redesigned dynamic curves, signature LED lights and Nissan’s
Intelligent Safety Shield Technologies including Forward
Emergency Braking,* you can take to the road not just in style,
but with con�dence too.
When equipped with Forward Emergency Braking.
For more information, see www.iihs.org.
nissan.ca/2016sentra
*Available Feature. The Nissan names, logos, product names, feature names, and slogans are trademarks owned by or licenced to Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
and/or its North American subsidiaries. Always wear your seat belt, and please don’t drink and drive. ©2016 Nissan Canada Inc. All rights reserved.

all looks.

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