Author: AutoTrader.ca

Still Viable?
Chris “Emmy” Jackson, Canadian Auto Press

It’s tough out there for full-size sport-utility vehicles right now.  As the vast SUV market continues to collapse in the face of the economic downturn, the vehicles that were once considered the height of suburban fashion have been relegated to the back of the showrooms, emerging only when a hybrid-electric version can be touted.

2010 Ford Expedition

As unpopular as these vehicles are at the moment, however, there’s some evidence that while the sales numbers may drop, full-size sport-utes will be with us for quite some time.  After all, Chevrolet’s Suburban was a steady seller long before it became trendy, and now that buyers who need a truck-based cargo beast have had a taste of the Ford Expedition, it’s unlikely that they’re going to let it go anytime soon. The Expedition, therefore, saunters quietly into 2010 with a round of safety and technology upgrades.

The Expedition’s not the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the lineup, but buyers who need this kind of capability are finding efficiency in different ways. The Expedition does the job of several vehicles.  It’s able to haul up to eight adult passengers, for starters, and they’re transported in comfort thanks to a spacious interior.  Ford’s seats are excellent for long-distance comfort, and the Expedition’s large console will swallow the many small items that accumulate inside of an errand-running vehicle.  Second-row heated seats are now standard, and Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, rear-seat DVD player, Sirius Satellite Radio and voice-activated navigation are available.  Friendly touches like a capless fuel filler system make the Expedition easy to live with.  Ford’s MyKey system allows parents to program vehicle restrictions such as a limited top speed, belt reminder chime and reduced audio system volume into the Expedition.  With the touch of a button, the available power-folding third-row seats drop into the floor and open up 1,557 litres (55 cubic feet) of space.  With all of the seats folded, the Expedition will swallow almost twice that amount.  The extended-wheelbase Expedition EL will haul a minivan-humbling 3,681 litres (130 cubic feet) of cargo.

When it comes time to move something too big to fit inside, the Expedition’s 5.4-litre V8 engine comes into play.  With 310 horsepower, three valves per cylinder and variable cam timing this big SUV can tow up to 4,173 kilos (9,200 pounds).  The big V8 also gives the Expedition flexible fuel vehicle (FFV) status as standard, enabling it to run on ethanol as well as gasoline.  A six-speed automatic transmission is standard and offers economy-improving close-spaced gear ratios.  Rear- and four-wheel drive are available.

While the suspension is designed for strength, Ford has also made the Expedition comfortable enough to use as a daily driver.  Double wishbones up front and an independent multilink rear give the big SUV responsive and controlled handling, reducing the head toss and harshness common to truck-based sport utes.  The Expedition’s AdvanceTrac stability control with Roll Stability Control is now equipped with Trailer Sway Control as standard, so the Expedition remains well behaved even with a heavy trailer out back.  AdvanceTrac is able to mitigate trailer instability by applying the truck’s brakes and throttle where necessary.  Anti-lock brakes are standard.

Healthy sales during the past decade have made the Expedition a common sight, giving the 2010 model a degree of anonymity on the road.  That’s not a bad thing, however, as this truck’s subdued good looks and familiarity prevents it from being a target of sneering hybrid owners who don’t understand that some people need a large vehicle day-to-day.  The Expedition’s styling comes from the previous generation of Ford trucks, with a bold, chrome-bar grille and upright lines.  The Eddie Bauer, Limited and King Ranch trim levels bring varying degrees of luxury and style to the Expedition lineup, and are designated by unique colours and badging.

Expedition pricing starts at $45,999.  Step up to the larger Expedition Max, that starts with upgraded Eddie Bauer trim, and the starting price also goes up to $56,799.

Lighter Means Faster and the Z06 Carbon Doesn’t Disappoint
Canadian Auto Press

In North America, few cars get enthusiasts talking as much as Chevy’s Corvette, and when that Corvette is a new special edition of an already radically modified Z06 version, well that pretty well transforms the average gearhead from quietly nerdy to… well… boisterously nerdy.

2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition

If you love the Z06 and are absolutely over the top for the even quicker ZR1, you’re gonna flip for the limited edition Z06 Carbon, now the quickest, fastest ‘Vette on the block.  Add carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber body panels and the magnetic ride active damping system of the supercharged ZR1 and you have the lightest, fastest Corvette you can get with a warranty.

Created to celebrate the 50^th anniversary or the Corvette’s first appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which Chevy took its class and placed 8^th overall by the way, with John Fitch and Briggs Cunningham at the wheel, Chevrolet will build 500 examples in Supersonic Blue (shown) and Inferno Orange.  They feature black painted wheels (not carbon, however) and a leather and suede enhanced interior, not to mention some carbon trim pieces inside.

If you’re not lucky enough to snatch up one of the 500 limited edition cars, you can always upgrade your Z06 with the Carbon Fibre and Z07 packages, which will give you most of the upgrades less the limited edition status.

By Nauman Farooq

This is the Panamera, Porsche’s first ever production car to have four doors. While Porsche had experimented with such concepts back in the 1970’s and the 1990’s, they never got past the prototype stage.

Porsche Panamera 4S

The problem with those earlier concepts was perhaps because they were nothing more than stretched 911’s to accommodate extra doors. The Panamera is a new car, from the ground up. Nothing about its platform has come from anything they currently make (although some technical bits are shared). This clean sheet design allowed Porsche to mould the platform to their exacting requirements. So everything from the position of the engine in the chassis to the positioning of the rear seats was done specifically for this car.

The end result is simply amazing, not that you can tell that by just looking at it. Let’s face it; this is not a pretty car. No matter which angle you look at it from, it’s not going to win your heart. The rear end especially is quite bulbous.

However, that is OK, because its interior is easily one of the best in the business. It does seem that Porsche allotted all their top designers to the interior department. Not only is this a very spacious four-seater (yes, it has bucket seats even in the rear, hence no middle seat for a fifth passenger), the ergonomics are spot on too. I love the center console, which seemed to have been inspired by the Vertu phone. All the buttons are well positioned and easy to read, and understanding which button does what is actually very simple. There is no BMW I-drive complication here, which will please many people. Customers will also be pleased by the toys it has to offer. Navigation system, touch screen interface, a brilliant sound system, etc., its all here. One feature I really appreciated was the heated steering wheel, which came in handy when I jumped in the car first thing in the morning.

However, none of the above mentioned features even come close to this cars very best feature, its engine. This front engine Porsche has a brand new motor, a 4.8-liter V8, which produces 400 hp and 370 lb/ft of torque. Mated to a seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) twin-clutch gearbox (with steering wheel mounted shift buttons), power is sent either to the rear wheels (Panamera S) or to all-wheels (Panamera 4S) as in my test car provided by Downtown Porsche.

As for the typical question of how fast? The Panamera 4S will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in about 4.8 seconds. Top speed is 282 km/h.

If you want to go faster still, a Turbo model is also offered, which produces 500 hp. That can accelerate past 300 km/h.

Figures alone however are meaningless; it is all about how a car feels that separates one car from the next and the Panamera 4S feels spectacular. Over the years, many car companies have tried to make a four-door sports car, but they all lacked the feel of a true sportscar. Drive a Panamera for five minutes and you forget that it actually has big back seats and a very commodious trunk. Many auto journalists have said it feels like a 911, personally, I think it’s even better. Where a 911 is only great when being pushed on the track, the Panamera feels great everywhere. Whether you’re on a highway cruise, or on a deserted strip of twisty tarmac, the Panamera will plant a huge smile on your face.

Luxury car buyers might say it’s not as well insulated as a Mercedes-Benz S-class, but personally I think the Panamera offers the right amount of insulation. Its never harsh, but nor is it a sensory deprivation tank.

Throw in its excellent handling capabilities, and what you end up with is probably the most complete car I have ever come across. It’s a practical family car with all-wheel drive, so it can be used everyday, even in the Canadian climate. It manages 11-liters/100 km (city/highway combined), so it’s about as frugal as a mid-size sedan. But for occasions when you need a driver’s car, this family car rewards like a sportscar.

So this one car can do it all, which is a good thing, because with Panamera prices starting at $115,100 it’s not cheap either. Best to start saving immediately.

B-Class Product Planning Could Benefit from US Sales
Canadian Auto Press

The appropriately named B-Class, which fits neatly under the C-Class in the B-segment within just about every market outside of the US, appears to be going stateside when the upgraded next-generation model arrives.

2010 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Let’s face it. In Canada, at least, the B200 and B200 Turbo are a big reason why Mercedes-Benz enjoys such strong sales.  The compact model not only allows aspiring three-pointed star devotees to buy into the luxury brand, but also gives them a high-quality small car that’s as practical as it is well appointed in top-tier trim.

Yesterday Automotive News (AN) reported that the German automaker would offer a compact car and a “small SUV” (could it mean crossover?) south of the 49^th soon.  The next B-Class will be introduced to Europeans in 2011, and being that it’s already designed for the Canadian market it’s a no-brainer for the now harmonized US market as well.

Here in Canada the B200 represents the port of entry into Mercedes-Benz exclusivity, as well as the most fuel-friendly of the two compact models.  The B200 Turbo offers a sporting edge, with much more power as well as a firmer suspension and larger wheels and tires, just for starters.  A larger US market might mean that additional models could be added that wouldn’t otherwise be cost effective for the Canadian division to import alone, so send out positive vibes for a new clean diesel alternative to the gasoline powerplants available now, or even an electric or hydrogen fuel cell B.  Why such speculation on unconventional power?  The AN report states that a fossil fuel alternative may be offered.

In Europe and other world markets, Canada included in this case, the B-Class represents a new ideal, a new way of thinking about luxury.  Now luxury and premium status don’t have to mean large and gluttonous, but rather Mercedes includes many of the same top-level features as available in its larger cars within a more fuel-efficient, cleaner and greener package.

The US market has made do with the C-Class as its entry-level model for decades, and while the slightly larger than compact sedan has served the first-time M-B buyer well, higher fuel prices, dependence on foreign oil and environmental concerns are causing many American luxury buyers to rethink their purchases.

But will they rethink to the point of a compact five-door hatchback with a big, fat three-pointed star on the grille and blue and silver Mercedes-Benz emblem on its hood?  Depending on the market it’s being sold into and individual economic motivation, we’re still at a crossroads.

“The behavior of Americans depends on fuel prices,” said Joachim Schmidt, sales and marketing chief at MB. “Nevertheless, we see a trend also toward fuel-efficient cars.”

Styling and Performance Upgrade Improves on an Already Impressive Two-Door
Canadian Auto Press

“Only in Canada, you say? Pity!” Well, not for Canadians.  Our American friends can’t get one, but you can get the Kia Forte Koup R Performance Package added to your Koup to set yourself apart from stock Koup owners.

2010 Kia Koup R

Available on either the SX or EX model, your Koup can get a serious handling package upgrade including a performance exhaust, performance air filter by AIM, stiffer springs and a strut tower brace.  What’s more, for improved handling and upgraded looks the R gets18-inch Europa wheels shod in Yokohama S-Drive performance tires.

Adding to the wow factor are deeper front skirts, more aggressive side sills and a rear spoiler, not to mention an R badge to finish off the look.

While Kia is a separate entity under the Hyundai-Kia umbrella, it’s interesting to note that the Korean brand’s familial rival also offers a Canadian-exclusive performance tuning program, although one that’s much more advanced.  Hyundai Performance Parts (www.hyundaiperformance.ca) offers performance and visual upgrades for numerous models within its lineup, all not interfering with warranty coverage.  It’s possible that Kia has similar plans, and that further upgrades will become available.

The R package will become available in mid-May, and no doubt dealers will create Koup Rs of their own and display them on their showroom floors.  And take heart, current Koup owners, your loyalty in buying first will be rewarded too, as any Kia parts counter will sell you the kit and all service departments will be trained to install it for you.

A Second Car or Just New Paint?
Canadian Auto Press

If you’re a lover of sloped back four-doors, like Porsche’s new Panamera or Aston’s Rapide, you’re gonna like what Bugatti has in store with the 16C Galibier.

Bugatti 16c Galibier

In store may not be the right verbiage, being that no official announcement has been made with respect to production, but the concept that first appeared at the Frankfurt motor show in September last year, makes a lot of sense for the two-model ultra-premium marque.

After all, Bugatti not only made sports cars in its heyday, but large luxury models too, such as the Royale, and previous owner to Volkswagen, Italian entrepreneur Romano Artioli and his Bugatti Automobili SpA company created a concept dubbed EB 112 that stylistically shares much with this one actually, at least from the rear where its fastback design and split rear window, divided by a centre spine, pays homage to Bugattis of the past.

The 16C Galibier is much stronger than the EB 112 in the front, however, where it’s classic Bugatti horseshoe grille is upright in grand fashion rather than canted back like a Morgan.

The car in these photos has either been repainted from the original concept’s two-tone blue and silver or is a second example, the latter prospect pointing to the French brand’s seriousness about this project.

Open either side of the 16C Galibier’s split hood and the same 8.0-litre W16 engine used by the Veyron will shock and awe, although instead of four turbochargers the four-door incorporates twin superchargers.  The 16C Galibier loses the 7-speed sequential manual too, replacing it with an 8-speed automatic in similar fashion to how Maserati dropped its sequential gearbox for an automatic, allowing for smoother shifting.

It’s difficult to say whether or not Bugatti will build the 16C Galibier.  They’re serious, which is the first step, but it will come down to signed orders with real deposits.

56.3% of Hyundai Owners Looking to Buy Korean Brand Again
Canadian Auto Press

Ask anyone who owns a business what the best sign is that they’re going about it right, and they’ll tell you it’s customer loyalty.  Repeat sales are more cost effective too, thanks to less marketing money than needed to pull in that first time customer.  And which automaker is best at keeping its customers happily coming back for more?  Hyundai!

2011 Hyundai Sonata

What keeps new car buyers coming back?  Appealing products, first and foremost, and reliability.  It scored above average in the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), and Hyundai placed fourth on the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Initial Quality Study (IQS), and was the leading non-luxury brand, ahead of Toyota and Honda.

Now it’s Kelley Blue Book (KBB) reporting that Hyundai has risen to first place in brand loyalty, with 56.3% of owners looking within the Korean brand for new car purchases. Honda maintains a strong second place with 55.8%, and Toyota dropped 4.4% to 53.3% for third place.

Hyundai no doubt was happy to hear that its Sonata midsize sedan is KBB’s fifth most popular new vehicle search, likely because of strong media attention that’s backed up by the sleek lines of the 2011 model.  Just the same, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry beat the Sonata in search popularity, as do Honda’s Civic and CR-V.

Nissan First Japanese Manufacturer to Target E-150 and Savanna Vans Directly
Canadian Auto Press

Seeing a similar opportunity that Ford recently did with its Transit Connect compact commercial van and Mercedes-Benz now does by taking control of Sprinter sales from Dodge and Freightliner, Nissan just introduced the 2011 NV (Nissan Van) at the National Truck Equipment Association’s (NTEA) annual Work Truck Show in St. Louis, MO.

Nissan Introduces First Commercial Vehicle for North American Market

Most North American consumers won’t be aware of Nissan’s depth of experience in the commercial vehicle (CV) market, at least globally, a heritage that marks “75 years and more than 75 percent of the global CV market.”

“The new kid on the block, as it turns out, is also a long-time player in the global commercial vehicle market.  As the first non-domestic nameplate to design and manufacture in the United States, as well as sell across North America, we bring a more than seven-decade tradition of durability, quality and reliability to our products,” said Mark Grimm, President, Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI).  “At the same time, we’ve taken a fresh look at every aspect of the CV business – including styling, powertrain, interiors, cost of operation and ownership, dealership sales and service operations and, most importantly, real world customer needs.”

A true work van, the NV is based on Nissan’s light-duty truck platform (Titan, Frontier), incorporating a strong fully boxed, full-length ladder frame ideal for hauling heavy loads and towing.  Available in three trim levels, NV1500, NV2500 and NV3500, for (you guessed it) half, three-quarter and one-ton load capability, all models can also be had in Standard Roof whereas NV2500 and NV3500 can be had in High Roof guise.  The High Roof version allows occupants to stand fully upright as they walk through the van.

“It’s been too many years since any manufacturer in this segment has taken a ’clean sheet’ look at the needs of owners and operators in the CV segment,” commented Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA).  “We’ve invested more than five years researching the comfort, style and smart functionality demands that will enable business owners to accomplish more throughout their day.  We plan on coming out of the box with segment-busting vehicles, so customer input was essential.”

The NV features a high quality cabin filled with available features if dressed up, and the seats appear more comfortable and supportive than those currently offered by domestic automakers.  Handy features are included like a front passenger seat that folds flat, a removable centre floor console designed to hold hanging file folders, a spot for pens and other items in the lid, and a lower bin ideally sized to hold a clipboard.

The rear doors open 243-degrees so that they’re totally out of the way when loading, while the side doors lock into place when open so as not to interfere with loading while parked on an incline.

There won’t be any mistaking the new NV for anything but a Nissan, the brand’s corporate truck nose squarely up front in full chrome, and the uniquely shaped rear window as seen on the Armada, Pathfinder, Murano and Rogue, a dead giveaway.  It can be had in six colours, Avalanche (white), Red Alert (bright red), Super Black, Radiant Silver, Tuscan Sun (what looks to be a dark burnt orange), and Navy Blue.

“The NV is one of the most researched projects ever in the history of Nissan.  We touched the market at every point possible, with the findings reflected in every aspect of the final NV design,” added Castelli.

Lastly, the NV will be available with two powertrains, a 4.0-litre V6 in standard trim and the option of a 5.6-litre V8.  Heavy-duty four-wheel disc brakes will keep loads under control.

The NV will be built alongside the Titan and Frontier pickup trucks, and Armada, Pathfinder and Xterra SUVs in Canton, Mississippi, and will be sold in late 2010 across Canada through a specially selected group of Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers.  Nissan has a dedicated site for its commercial vehicle business, found at www.nissancommercialvehicles.com, for more information.