Remember the Chrysler Sebring sedan and convertible? It launched about three years ago unsuccessfully. I had driven one from a rental fleet at the time, and it was certainly clear that some serious re-work was required!

Fast-forward to today and the Sebring gets an extreme makeover in bodystyle, interior design and powertrain, with a new name summing it up as the Chrysler 200. Developing an all-new car from the ground up would have been overly costly and time-consuming. So what the engineers and designers did was address all the major weak points of the unloved Sebring and raise its appeal factor to a level where the buying public will notice an almost all-new car. A huge marketing blitz with the ‘Imported from Detroit’ tagline certainly helped with the awareness for the 2011 Chrysler 200. The only visible parts that seem to look familiar from the Sebring predecessor are the door and roof design on the sedan bodystyle. Kudos to the design team that was able to jazz up the exterior styling with some visual pizzazz. Bright trimming and the use of LEDs for rear lighting and front parking lamps add a more upscale touch to the exterior. Viewed from the rear, the design details give the Chrysler 200 a stylish appeal.

[View with PicLens]

Another area that sees a major upgrade is the passenger cabin with a huge improvement in interior design for a much more hospitable environment. The use of higher grade materials and new improved dash and seat design helps to elevate the quality to more desirable levels, which are comparable to some of its competitors. Subtle chrome trimmings and nice detailing on the centre dash controls, together with the nicely illuminated gauges, gives the impression of a much classier interior when compared to its forerunner.

Size-wise, the sedan offers average room. But if you’re looking for a convertible with a comparatively roomy backseat, the 200 convertible provides more space than most and seems to be the darling of the fleet. The 200 convertible is available with either a conventional soft top or a more costly retractable hardtop, which ensures better security comparable to a closed coupe design, and also lowers cabin noise levels. With either top design, the easy-to-operate system takes about 30 seconds to lower.

Two engine choices are offered with the front-wheel-drive Chrysler 200. Standard on the base LX and mid-level Touring trim is a 2.4-litre four-cylinder, which develops a stout 173-horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. The available brand new design 3.6-L V-6, which is standard on the up-level Limited trim, puts out a healthy 283-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, which when matched to the six-speed automatic transmission, provides strong acceleration. Having tried this engine, the refinement level is high combined with a good quality exhaust note exiting the rear dual tailpipes.

The standard transmission on the 4-cylinder is an antiquated  4-speed automatic that buyers can thankfully upgrade to a more refined and efficient 6-speed automatic. On the safety side, it is surprising to learn that Vehicle Stability Control System is optional on the base LX model. This feature is standard on even some sub-compact cars!

To Chrysler’s credit, the design and engineering team did a tremendous job in upgrading the Chrysler’s 200 appeal with better-looking sheet metal, nicer interior quality and mechanical refinement. The look of quality that was woefully absent in the past model is much more evident in the new 200.
www.chrysler.ca

SPECIFICATIONS Chrysler 200
Four-door sedan or two-door convertible bodystyle

Engine: 2.4-litre I-4, DOHC, 16 valves / 3.6-litre V-6, DOHC, 24 valves
Horsepower: 173 @ 6000 r.p.m. / 283 @ 6400 r.p.m.
Torque: 166 @ 4400 r.p.m. / 260 @ 4400 r.p.m.
Fuel economy L/100km, I-4: City – 9.9 / Hwy – 6.7
Fuel economy L/100km, V-6: City – 11 / Hwy – 6.8
Transmission: 4-speed automatic / 6-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front engine/front-wheel-drive
Base MSRP: $16,495 (sedan) / $29,995 (convertible)

Now in its fourth generation, the EVO is packed with the latest go-fast hardware that allows it to compete in a rarified crowd that includes Porsche 911, BMW M3, Mercedes AMG, and other supercars. Its main rival with similar performance and pricing is the Subaru STI, which is also built off a humble compact econobox. Having driven both, the Mitsu EVO is the more extreme and satisfying car for hard-core performance. Using the compact Mitsubishi Lancer sedan as its platform, the EVO adds a high-strung 2-Litre turbo-charged engine with intercooler, which brings horsepower up to 291 and torque to a very strong 300 lb. ft. – a killer combo when taking into account that the car weighs under 3,600 pounds.

[View with PicLens]

The Lancer Evolution GSR, which is the base grade, gets the standard 5-speed manual transmission, while the higher grade MR is equipped with the 6-speed automated Dual Clutch (TC-SST) transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters for lightning-quick shifts. For a car that has fast reflexes and a lively chassis that revels in sideways cornering styles, the dual clutch transmission is actually preferable, as the driver can operate the transmission via the steering wheel paddles and not have the hands off the helm during banzai manoeuvres! Talking about the chassis, the EVO’s suspension with forged aluminium arms is fully modified and tuned with very aggressive settings for total driver enjoyment and exploitation. The MR grade adds performance name brands like Eibach for the springs and Bilstein for the shock absorbers, which take the handling performance to an even higher level that can terrorize Ferrari and Lamborghini drivers in twisty road sections. High-performance brakes with strong stopping power and fade-free performance are also part of the package. The one other crucial power train component that really makes the Mitsubishi EVO is the Super All-Wheel Control full-time all-wheel-drive system that incorporates tricks like Active Yaw Control and front limited slip differential that allows the power to get to the road in a very effective manner. It is one of the most confidence-aspiring systems in the marketplace, allowing the driver to feel comfortable with the car at high speeds and able to fully exploit the chassis and engine performance almost with very little learning. Supporting the driver firmly are Recaro seats – mandatory when you consider the very high cornering and braking limits the EVO is capable of.

Rumours have been spreading around the Internet about the future of Mitsubishi’s Evolution and its eventual demise due to ever-tightening fuel mileage regulations and relevance in the marketplace. Let’s hope that the powers that be continue to let the EVO evolve to another generation as the franchise has earned a rightful place in the automotive world.

SPECIFICATIONS
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Engine: 2.0-L 4-Cylinder Turbo / Intercooled
Horsepower: 291 @ 6,500 r.p.m.
Torque: 300 lb. ft. @ 4,000 r.p.m.
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 12.9 / Hwy – 9.0
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual Transmission / 6-Speed Dual Clutch
Drivetrain: Full-Time All-Wheel-Drive with Torque Vectoring
Base MSRP: $41,998

www.mitsubishi-motors.ca

Fast-forward and the picture is decidedly different, with American-branded companies such as GM, Ford – and recently Chrysler – experiencing a resurrection in sales from a post-bankruptcy recovery period. Ford, as most people already know, was the only American brand that didn’t require government bailout. Toyota and Honda, on the other hand, have not bounced back as expected, due to extensive safety-related recalls on Toyota’s part, and unpopularly styled new products from Honda. North American sales of Japanese cars may also be slightly affected by the Japan earthquake and tsunami, which forced the closure of some plants that produce Japanese parts and speciality cars.

[View with PicLens]

So, what’s driving us back into GM, Ford and Chrysler? These companies are on a launch blitz, with a host of new cars and trucks that are attracting plenty of positive attention from the automotive media and the buying public.

The smallest of the American brands, Chrysler is only now starting to shine with a host of new desirable vehicles: the Dodge Charger, Challenger, Durango, Chrysler 300 and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Adding Fiat will undeniably help in new conquest sales.

The one American carmaker that currently stands out is Ford, with excellent new products in most of the segments in which it competes. Recently making headlines in Ford’s broad vehicle lineup is the all-new Ford Explorer. For those of us whose memory goes back about 20 years, it was the Ford Explorer that created the whole mainstream SUV category and almost overnight became a sales sensation and cash cow for Ford. This sales king held the crown for over a decade. Soon a new category of SUVs started gaining popularity, providing car-like attributes, which made the truck-based body-on-frame Explorer feel dated and unpopular.

To capture lost sales and make a huge comeback, Ford’s product planners wisely chose to adopt a front-wheel-drive car platform as the basis for the latest Explorer. The all-new 2011 Ford Explorer is stunning for a mainstream SUV, with impressive interior design, quality materials, new state-of-the-art power trains and infotainment systems like MyFord Touch and SYNC. The standout exterior design looks upscale and modern and offers family hauling practicality. Under the hood resides a 290-horsepower 3.5-Litre V-6 engine that either powers the front wheels or all four of them. A new fuel-efficient engine option will be made available shortly in the form of a 237-hp EcoBoost 2.0-L Turbo four-cylinder engine. This will be the first appearance of a four-cylinder engine in the Explorer, and Ford must be anxious to see if the public will gravitate to the smaller, more fuel-friendly engine. The mid-size SUV segment once dominated by standouts like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot is now being humbled by Ford’s revived Explorer.

Another carmaker making huge sales gains is GM, with its leaner brand portfolio of Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC. The one brand in the group that is seeing a tangible increase in its car sales is Cadillac with its CTS lineup. Cadillac rose to recent popularity, thanks to its Escalade SUV, which was embraced by the Hollywood and MTV crowd. Now, with the revived Cadillac CTS franchise, which includes the stunning CTS Wagon and the all-new Coupe, Cadillac is on the buy-me radar for those looking beyond an Escalade. The CTS lineup also includes the high-performance CTS-V models, which offer overwhelming performance under the hood and world-class handling dynamics that amaze established European brands. It’s quite shocking to learn that the CTS-V series, with its 556-hp, supercharged V-8 engine, can go toe-to-toe with a BMW M3, Mercedes C63 AMG and Audi S4. Its angular good looks and “art and science” design language works very well in the sedan, wagon and coupe body styles.

Having been on financial life support just recently, it’s reassuring to see that North American brands have made a strong comeback with great new rides.
www.ford.ca
www.gm.ca
www.chryslercanada.ca

The all-new QX was developed in conjunction with the Nissan Patrol, a model not sold in North America. They both share componentry, which is a good thing as the Nissan Patrol, a traditional body-on-frame SUV, has proven serious off-road credentials and ruggedness. When playing in the full-size body-on-frame luxury SUV segment, nothing less than a high-power V-8 will do. The QX has this covered as it shares the same sophisticated V-8 with the Infiniti M56 sedan. The variable valve timing, direct-injected 5.6-litre V-8 makes an astounding 400-horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Together with the seven-speed automatic transmission, this 5,850 pound luxury SUV can easily hit 100 kilometres an hour from a standstill in under seven seconds if the driver chooses to do so! If towing is required, the 8,500-pound capability will be more than sufficient. Heavy fuel thirst is expected and very unfriendly to the wallet, but most folks getting into this type of vehicle won’t be surprised by this fact.

[View with PicLens]

As with vehicles of this nature, a sophisticated full-time, four-wheel-drive system is standard with a computer-controlled transfer case and limited slip differential. With the availability to select 4WD Lo setting, the QX56 should be able to traverse over challenging terrain with ease. Located on the centre console is a silver knob that controls the driver-selectable four-wheel drive modes. For toughness, the QX56 continues as a body-on-frame design with 9.2-inches of ground clearance for rough off-road trails. In reality, off-road for most vehicles in this class is backing a trailer down a boat ramp or the weekend trek to the cabin in the woods.

In keeping with the luxury theme, the suspension is designed to keep the big Infiniti from rolling around too much in the corners, thanks to the use of its Hydraulic Body Motion Control System. In the past, most body-on-frame SUVs utilized a beefy solid rear axle for strength and ruggedness but in the interests of better handling and ride, the QX uses a rear independent control-arm suspension.

When viewed in person, the full-size QX56 can be somewhat mesmerizing. All the required “bling” is present in the form of super-sized diameter wheels at 20-inches, heavily chromed front grille and lots more chrome accents adorning various bodywork jewelry. If that’s still insufficient, there’s a wheel-size upgrade to optional 22-inch wheels! Interestingly enough, the V-8 powered QX56 wears a three port-hole trim piece on its front fenders, which usually signifies a six-cylinder power plant.

Once inside, the roomy seven-to-eight passenger cabin surprises with opulence in the use of rich materials and attractive design. Lots of supple leather and wood trimming adorn the classy interior. As expected, the QX is packed with just about every feature you can think of. From a wireless rear-seat DVD system and heated seats in the first two rows, to power-folding third-row seats and second-row seats you can fold and tumble from the front seat with the push of a button. A hard-drive navigation system is also equipped with a Zagat restaurant guide. There are always folks out there who demand a vehicle like the QX and they will not be disappointed with all the high-end features and capability the QX56 delivers.  www.infiniti.ca

SPECIFICATIONS: Infiniti QX56
Engine: 5.6-L V-8 DOHC 48-valve, Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing
Horsepower: 420
Torque: 413 lb. ft.
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 15.7 / Hwy – 10.3
Transmission: 7-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: Longitudinal front engine / All Mode Four-Wheel-Drive
Base MSRP: $73,000

The steering has just the right amount of feel and feedback from the front tires and combined with the taut suspension, allows the chassis to be entertaining and fun in the corners. There’s very good body control, which gives lots of confidence to the driver. Even the brakes have a nice feel for easy modulation when driven hard. Equally enjoyable is the smooth-revving 2.5-L four-cylinder that makes a nice racy growl at high revs. The throttle pedal and clutch is ideally designed for blipping when downshifting to lower gears, adding to the driving experience. I must admit: the Mazda3 2.5 GT has an ideal balance of power and handling without getting into too much trouble, as the speeds are not overly high to attract unwanted attention from you-know-who. There is, of course, the much more powerful Mazdaspeed3 with its turbocharged engine that can run with much more powerful cars like the BMW 335i or Mercedes C350.

[View with PicLens]

Two body styles are available to choose from: a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. Then there are three available four-cylinder engines: base models are equipped with 2.0-L, 148-horsepower, as well as higher grades with a 167-horsepower, 2.5-L engine that is also shared with the larger Mazda6 Sedan. The overachiever in the Mazda3 lineup is the hatchback-only Mazdaspeed3 with 263-horsepower from its turbocharged, direct injected and intercooled 2.3-L motor. Two transmissions are available and the popular choice will be the five-speed automatic that has a manual sequential shift mode for added driver involvement. The enthusiast choice is the slick shifting six-speed manual that is a joy to use, and combined with the light-feeling clutch, transforms the nature of the Mazda3 from an already great car to a serious sports sedan or hatch, depending on which one of the available body styles the buyer chooses. The manual transmission is the only choice in the Mazdaspeed3. On the safety side, four-wheel disc brakes come with anti-lock braking, and the 2.5-L and Mazdaspeed3 models also get a Standard Vehicle Stability Control System, which is a nice little insurance policy to have as backup if the driver runs out of talent!

In the styling department, Mazda3s stand out with their attractive sheetmetal and interesting look. The only area that could be toned down is the front facia with the overly large smiley face. The good looks also continue inside the high grade and spacious cabin with an attractively designed dash, seats and door panels. Unlike other cars with simple dash controls, operating the Mazda3’s audio and climate controls takes a bit more concentration.

In the crowded and competitive compact segment, the Mazda3 is also a strong sales performer as it offers style, driving enjoyment and that special something that is absent from most cars in this class.

www.mazda.ca

SPECIFICATIONS
Mazda3
Engine: 2.5-L 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve, Variable Valve Timing
Horsepower: 167
Torque: 168 lb. ft.
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 9.29 / Hwy – 6.8
Transmission: 6-Speed Manual or 5-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sport Mode
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel-Drive
Base MSRP: 2.5-L GT Sedan – $22,995 / 2.5-L Sport – $23,995 / Mazdaspeed3 – $32,995

Continuing Cadillac’s art and science design theme among its model lineup, the polarizing SRX crossover SUV gets noticed thanks to its sharp creases and angles that boldly stand out. Hard to miss is the huge chrome grille punctuated by a large oversized Cadillac badge resting between two huge headlights, giving the front-end a look that is unmistakably Cadillac. It looks like the stylists may have been trying too hard with the front-end, as it looks too blunt from some angles. Being a Cadillac, there’s no shortage of chrome trimmings and adding to that is the available chrome 20-inch wheels that is a must-have styling accessory.

[View with PicLens]

While the exterior strikes a bold – some would say overwrought stance – the interior gets kudos for its level of detail and refinement and should impress most folks once they get inside. Facing the front occupants is a very modern and sophisticated-looking dash. The attractive design continues through to the door panels, giving the cabin a classy ambience. The cabin’s impressive centre stack features a jewel-like analog clock, high-end materials and a large retractable navigation screen that disappears into the upper dash when not in use.

Thickly padded high-grade materials are used throughout and together with comfy leather seating and wood trim inserts, the inviting cabin delights the senses. In a vehicle of this class, all the expected luxury and high-end convenience items like the Bose surround sound premium audio, heated front and rear seats, power lift gate and panoramic moon roof are available on top of the already comprehensive standard equipment.

In terms of cargo-carrying utility, the generous trunk area can easily expand with the 60/40-split folding and reclining rear seats.

Under the hood of the SRX resides a 260-horsepower 3.0-litre V-6 with direct-injection. Available is the more powerful but smaller turbocharged 2.8-litre V-6 that cranks out 300-horsepower and a healthy 295 pound-feet of torque at 1,850 r.p.m. With a heavy curb weight north of 4,000 pounds, it’s a smart choice to go with the turbocharged motor! Both V-6 engines come equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission offering seamless and refined operation. The optional Northstar V-8 engine that was offered in the previous generation seven-passenger SRX is no longer available. One of the reasons, besides fuel economy, is that the previous V-8 was designed for a rear-wheel-drive chassis and it would probably have cost a significant amount to reengineer the motor to fit in the new chassis that is front-wheel-drive based. For added utility, the SRX is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Offered is a choice of either front-wheel-drive or an on-demand all-wheel-drive system for driving dynamics in all types of weather. With Old Man Winter approaching, it’s wise to select the all-wheel-drive option. The all-wheel-drive system can effectively transfer power from the front to rear wheels, giving the driver control and confidence on any road surface – especially in deep snow. A safety feature most appreciated is the vehicle stability control that helps stabilize the SRX in slippery conditions.

Smaller, bolder and more upscale, the 2010 Cadillac SRX crossover will appeal to those who want the new non-traditional American luxury that Cadillac is aiming towards.
www.cadillac.ca

SPECIFICATIONS
Cadillac SRX Turbo
Engine: 2.8-L V-6 DOHC 24-valve Turbo
Horsepower: 300
Torque: 295 lb. ft.
Fuel economy L/100 km: City – 13.6 / Hwy – 9.1
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain: On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive
Base price: $47,175

Ford Escape hybrid

With the fuel efficiency gains of gas electric hybrid power, it wasn’t long before SUVs started adopting this green technology. Ford was one of the early adopters, after Toyota, to equip its popular Escape compact SUV with a hybrid system. Ford launched the Escape Hybrid early in the decade and since then the model has been updated and modernized to its current form. Having driven the Escape on an extended trip, the 177-combined horsepower of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder gas and electric hybrid motor feels energetic and gives surprising acceleration. At one point, with no highway traffic and the gas pedal floored, the Escape impressed by reaching “hello, officer!” speeds effortlessly. The only downside was the aural whine of the engine as the continuously variable transmission kept the engine spinning at maximum revs. Driven in a more sedate manner, the Escape Hybrid’s gas engine combined with electric motors impresses with little fuel usage especially in stop-and-go traffic where fuel gains are maximized. At low speeds, the Hybrid system allows the Escape to run solely on electric power with no fuel use and zero tailpipe emissions.

[View with PicLens]

As for the rest of the package, the Escape Hybrid shares styling and interior amenities with the conventional gas versions of the Escape family. With the familiarity of the Ford Escape, the styling looks dated but still appealing enough not to offend. Its boxy styling with generous side windows gives excellent outward visibility and maximizes rear cargo carrying.

Inside, the boxy exterior theme carries over. Hard plastics for the dash and door panels dominate the cabin. Where the Escape shines is in the availability of amenities that include leather seating, SYNC entertainment, Bluetooth communication system and navigation system. The system allows DVD movie viewing but only when parked, which is a great feature when waiting for the kids.

A cool feature usually found in high-end cars like Lexus and Lincoln is the Active Park Assist system. For parallel-parking-challenged folks, this computer-aided parking system ensures text-book-perfect parallel parking each time.

Enjoying the Escape Hybrid out in the wilderness makes sense as it threads lightly with little pollution to spoil the outdoors.

Jeep Wrangler
Wrangler offers cool rugged looks and extreme off-road capability.

On the other side of the scale is the iconic Jeep Wrangler. Easily recognized, Jeep’s Wrangler looks at home in any outdoor setting. Its rugged yet simple looks have stood the test of time when compared to more contemporary looking off-road vehicles. Styling details that go against trend-setting aerodynamics include an upright foldable windshield, squared-off front fenders, protruding bumpers and blocky outside mirrors. But when seen in person, the Jeep Wrangler is at once appealing and sporty looking, especially in the two-door body style. Also available as a four-door Unlimited, the Wrangler can accommodate rear passengers in relative comfort. My choice is the sporty two-door as its proportions look just right. The Wrangler really comes into its own cool style when it transforms into a naked convertible. This requires folding the windshield assembly forward, removing the roof and doors for a totally different look. Removing the doors helps with off-road visibility, especially when trekking on tough challenging trails where the part-time four-wheel-drive system and rugged suspension design showcases its extreme capability. Having driven the Wrangler on some tough sections of unpaved trails, the off-road capability is outstanding, especially when using low-range four-wheel-drive and crawling over intimidating terrain that looks almost impossible to drive on. The 202-horsepower 3.8-litre V-6 engine provides lots of low-end power, ideal for its mission in the outdoors.

When driven on highways and civilized city streets, the Wrangler becomes loud and provides a bumpy ride compared to city slicker SUVs. It’s still fun as the Wrangler does not pretend to be anything else than a rugged go-anywhere off-road machine. Its interior design also reflects the simplicity of the exterior with durable materials and plenty of grab handles. Contemporary features include available navigation system, 368-watt Infinity premium sound system with Satellite Radio, Uconnect Bluetooth voice command system, leather seats and more.

With a base price of under $20,000, the Wrangler is a way cool alternative to the boring compact sedans in the same price range.

www.ford.ca, www.jeep.ca

Ford Escape Hybrid
Engine: 177 net hp 2.5-L 4-cylinder with electric drive motors, 330-Volt High Voltage Battery
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 5.8 / Hwy – 6.5
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission
Drivetrain: Front –Wheel-Drive or avail. On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive
Base price: $32,409

Jeep Wrangler
Base engine: 202-hp, 3.8-L V-6
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 14.1 / Hwy – 10.8
Transmission: Six-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Two-speed Part-Time Four-Wheel-drive
Base price: $19,095

Style-wise, the RX450h is almost indistinguishable from its gasoline-powered sibling, the RX350. Only a trained eye will spot the hybrid’s specific styling cues, such as the unique wheel design, subtle blue hybrid badging and light blue tinted tail lamp lenses. A cool exterior feature is the available LED headlamps that give the RX450h a high-tech appearance.

Inside, luxury abounds with an inviting cabin environment, complemented by soft supple leather, highly polished wood grain trim and lots of high-tech gizmos. One driver-friendly feature that really stands out is the Remote Touch control for items like the audio, navigation and climate system. Of all the hand controllers offered by premium brands, the Lexus system is by far the easiest to operate, with intuitive controls, unlike the frustrating iDrive interface system offered in BMWs.

[View with PicLens]

The driving experience is also unique as the power comes on in a seamless fashion and allows the RX450h to operate either in electric mode or a combination of gas engine and electric motors. A huge benefit is that in electric mode there are zero tailpipe emissions and zero use of fuel, which allows the RX450h to sip gas like a compact car. It’s no slouch either as the acceleration is shockingly quick for a 4,800 pound SUV.

At the other end of the utility spectrum is the newly introduced Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon. From the rear doors forward, the Sport Wagon shares the same sharply creased body design as the CTS sedan. The unique wagon shape extends from the rear doors and stretches the roof line offering added cargo carrying utility. Don’t be fooled by the ‘Wagon’ label as the CTS Sport Wagon leans more toward the sport side of the equation. The utility part offers tangible benefits only when the rear seats are folded down, greatly increasing cargo carrying capacity. Just make sure that it is held down securely, as the CTS begs to be driven enthusiastically. A big difference between a wagon and an SUV is in the vehicles’ handling dynamics. The CTS has a much lower centre of gravity than an SUV like the RX450h and is able to handle corners at higher limits. The downside is the lack of higher ground clearance for deep snow or light cottage trails.

Powering the CTS is either a 270-horsepower 3.0-litre V-6 or a higher performance 304-horsepower 3.6-L V-6 with Direct Fuel Injection. What is totally unexpected is the availability of a six-speed manual transmission for enthusiasts. Typical of Cadillac, the CTS Sport Wagon offers a long list of available features such as a Sport Package, Panorama Roof, 19-inch wheels and a host of luxury items like the “Sapele Pommele” wood accents on the steering wheel and various interior panels for added style.

With the distinctively attractive style, the CTS Sport Wagon stands out compared to its German rivals, the Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3-Series Touring.

www.lexus.ca, www.cadillac.ca

Lexus RX 450h, 5-passenger SUV
Engine: 295hp 3.5-L V-6 with front and rear electric drive motors
Fuel economy L/100km: City – 6.6 / Hwy – 7.2
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission
Drivetrain: On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive
Base price: $59,500

Cadillac CTS, 5-passenger Sport Wagon
Base engine: 270 hp 3.0-L V-6 or avail. 304 hp 3.6-L V-6
Fuel economy L/100 km: City – 11.8 / Hwy – 7.5
Transmission: Six-speed manual or automatic with sequential shift
Drive train: Rear-Wheel-Drive or avail. All-wheel drive
Base price: $40,650

Toyota Venza

Soon to attack the market is the all-new Toyota Venza, with a bold, aggressive style. The 2.7-litre four-cylinder model has visually stunning standard 19-inch wheels, while the 3.5-litre V-6 comes with a set of really cool-looking 20-inchers. Lots of luxury amenities come standard, including power driver’s seat, dual auto climate controls and windshield wiper de-icer. Special packages include items like the Panorama Roof, Smart Key entry, and high-end JBL audio and navigation systems. On the utility side, the Venza offers lots of rear seat and cargo room, and can also tow up to 3,500 pounds on the V-6 model. Another nice feature is the all-wheel-drive for bad weather conditions.
www.toyota.com/venza

[View with PicLens]

Ford Flex

The first thing you’ll notice about the Ford Flex is the square styling that mimics a Mini Cooper Clubman, especially if you go with the white roof option. Horizontal strakes along the sides also adds some visual distinction. Having spent some time improving the Flex, Ford has done a great job with its design and quality, which was unseen in previous models. On the performance and handling side, the Flex drives very well with good power and refinement. The 3.5-litre V-6 offers smooth performance with the six-speed automatic transmission and an optional all-wheel-drive system. With seating for up to seven and different utility configurations available, the Flex is appropriately named.
www.fordvehicles.com/crossovers/flex

Mazda CX-7

Another sporty ride is the swooping Mazda CX-7, looking fast even when it’s not moving. Powering the CX-7 is a turbocharged 2.3-litre, four-cylinder, incorporating direct injection with an output of 244-horsepower. A six-speed automatic is the sole transmission. Like the Infiniti EX35, the CX-7 is geared towards the car enthusiast, delivering lively handling when the road gets twisty!
www.mazda.ca

Jeep Compass

On the entry-level side, we have the Jeep Compass that offers a practical, affordable and compact package, suiting most folks’ needs. Considering the very low base price, one need not expect too much in terms of standard equipment. The Compass does offer options like a larger 2.4-litre engine over the base 2.0-litre. There’s also all-wheel-drive, but don’t try to do any serious off-roading despite the Jeep’s nameplate –  this is more of an all-weather vehicle.
www.jeep.com

It’s common knowledge that the German car companies rule the mega horsepower roost with machinery sporting acronyms like AMG by Mercedes, M from BMW and RS from the house of Audi. These bad boys are constantly battling for power supremacy with their steroid induced, four-door sedans and coupes. Their performance matches or exceeds many exotic super cars.

Another nameplate recently joining this exclusive fraternity is the Lexus IS F sedan. Those familiar with the IS series are aware of the existence of both the rear-wheel-drive IS 250 and 350 models. An all-wheel-drive model is also offered on the 250. The higher grade IS 350 is a potent machine with 306 horsepower from its 3.5-litre V6, that easily keeps up with BMW’s twin turbo 330i.
Moving the bar significantly higher is the IS F, making its intentions known with muscular bodywork, bulging hood, vertical stacked quad exhausts and wide diameter BBS wheels on road-gripping summer tires. Backing up the attitude is a highly potent 416 horsepower 5.0 litre V8, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering neck-snapping acceleration. For statistical gear-heads, that means a jackrabbit run to 60 miles an hour in 4.6 seconds! If you’re willing to gamble some prison time, the IS F will top out at 170 miles an hour! Slowing down to saner speeds is effortless, thanks to massive Brembo brakes, a must-have with the kind of speeds the IS F is capable of.

[View with PicLens]

Folks expecting the typical silence from the V8 engine will be surprised to hear a deep throaty symphony, piping out from the quad exhausts. A blip of the gas pedal will awaken the beast within, and a little more pressure gives you a NASCAR stocker, especially when accelerating through the lower gears at maximum revs.

Keeping the IS F glued to the road are grippy Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires – wider at the rear for extra power. A performance-tuned Stability Control System means the driver can misbehave with standby stability insurance, in case he runs out of talent.

As expected of a Lexus, the IS F offers a luxurious and very elaborate cabin. Both front and rear seats are heavily bolstered and supportive to better hold occupants during high-speed cornering. Fine leather materials envelop the seats, door trims and interior. White-faced leather seats add sophistication to the cabin. The carbon fibre silver trim on the centre console, gives the interior a very high-tech appearance.

Overall, Lexus offers a competitive package for affluent drivers.

Lexus IS F Specifications

Engine: 416 horsepower, 5.0-litre
DOHC V8 variable valve timing

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Drivetrain: Rear-wheel-drive

Suspension: Independent front & rear

Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS,
Stability Control System

Starting Price: $64,450

www.lexus.com