Car Rear Drive Front Wheel Engine Four Image Enlarge Vehicle Click System Fuel Canada Auto Model Seat There Power Ford Litre Control Automotive Aerio Speed
Canadian car prices is our speciality. We do lots of Canadian car prices because we're experts with Canadian car prices.
We've lot's of info on Canadian car prices, and this is the best possible spot to learn more about Canadian car prices and other topics!
Seats built for police officers Spending a whole shift in a police car can get pretty uncomfortable so the Interceptor concept includes specially designed front bucket seats with a narrow seat bite to accommodate officers bulky belts and holsters .
At a recent press launch in Laguna Beach California I noted several Mercedes CLK owners dangerously driving their convertibles in one direction while staring at the interesting Audis going the other way .
Split folding rear seats are now optional and you can even flop the front passenger seat forward if you want to carry really long items like lumber .
First the rear seat cushion is pulled up against the front seatback and then the rear seatback folds down flat almost flush with the rear cargo floor .
Click image to enlarge This engine along with the 1.8T engine available in February 2006 meets the stringent US Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle ULEV standards .
September 24 2006 Click image to enlarge First Drive 2006 Mercedes Benz E320 Story and photos by Laurance Yap Click image to enlarge > Surely there s something in the what NOT to do when you drive a Mercedes section of the manual about stuff like this .
Feature VW 1 Litre CarVolkswagen surprised the automotive world last month with an ultra fuel efficient prototype that achieves fuel consumption of better than 1 litre per 100 kilometres 282 mpg .
Convertible and wagon like hatchback models will follow at a later date .
The driver s position is great good visibility a tilt wheel and height adjustable driver s seat and easy access to controls .
A couple of quibbles there isn t a standard fold down centre armrest for the front or rear passengers although a small front armrest is optional and there is a storage drawer under the front passenger seat and there s only one cupholder at the back of the centre console for rear passengers .
There were no recalls on this last generation Escort and although it s a small vehicle it did reasonably well in crash tests .
April 9 20062006 Ford Mustang Mach 1Once again Ford is reaching back to its performance roots with a modern day version of the Mustang Mach 1 .
Height1212 mm 47.7 in .
Emission components such as oxygen sensors and catalytic converters become coated with MMT reducing their efficiency .
There are few things more pretentious for a writer than to quote himself but when I drove this car last summer in Switzerland I said those expecting a traditional American style V8 punch in the kidneys will wonder what all the fuss is about.. .
I give top marks for the rear seat having three height adjustable head restraints which raise high enough for the tallest of passengers .
Click image to enlarge The Aerio SX model has a front air dam with foglights side sills a rear skirt and a roof spoiler but though it looks very sporty it s not really a performance hatchback like the Honda Civic SiR or Ford Focus SVT .
Eddie Bauer models have front seats with seat heaters with five temperature settings and unique air conditioning that consists of cool air wafting through small holes in the seat inserts .
We wanted to set the new Range Rover apart from all off road competitors and also offer an interior that beats luxury saloon rivals said Dover .
When we traced it back he had been driving for 13 hours straight and drove into the transport truck because he fell asleep .
Fuel economy also suffers a bit but if you re paying this much for a car who cares .
The Control Trac system includes a dash mounted dial that allows you to switch between 2WD rear wheel drive re introduced for 2006 full time A4WD can be used on pavement or off pavement part time 4WD off pavement only and 4WD Low Range for slow going and steep descents .
It is supremely capable off road and one of the world s finest luxury cars .
Four inches is a lot he said .
We treat the whole issue of being tired as part of our lifestyle .
Auto Shows LA 2006 Photo Gallery Detroit 2006 Photo Gallery Montreal 2006 Chicago 2006 Toronto 2006 Photo Gallery New York 2006 Vancouver 2006 Photo Gallery Research Test Drives What s new for 2006 What s new mid year 2006 > New Model Previews Price Guide Used Car Reviews Compare insurance rates Calculators Loan Lease Fuel Consumption Fuel Cost US CDN conversion Vehicle Recalls How To.. .
According to Tadge Juechter Performance Cars assistant chief engineer the 2006 Z06 is a total performance package .
Test Drive 2006 Jaguar S Type RThe new for 2006 Jaguar S Type R uses a 4.2 litre double overhead cam V8 engine with an intercooled Eaton supercharger to produce 400 horsepower making it the most powerful model in Jaguar s line up .
All Expeditions have a heavy duty 4 speed automatic transmission with overdrive lockout button which changes quickly and smoothly most of the time but occasionally changes jumps into gear under acceleration. click image to enlarge Interior impressions I liked the Expedition s simple attractive dash layout particularly the new flat black finish on the dashboard in front of the driver which reduces glare .
The sedan is 53 400 and the wagon 54 575 .
When not in use the centre rear head restraint sits lower to avoid impeding the driver s rearward vision .
Its rock solid stable comfortable and above all offers performance that makes ear to ear grins mandatory .
Click an image to enlarge The interior is more revolutionary .
The optional side curtain air bag cushions impacts and helps to reduce the potential for occupant ejection .
The redesigned 1993 9 3 retained the floor mounted ignition key but much of its traditional Saab quirkiness was smoothed over in order to make it more appealing to the masses .
Inside the S Type sedans the passengers are pampered in leather and surrounded by bird s eye maple wood panelling .
The Expedition features electronic rollover sensors that measure whether the vehicle is tilting how fast the lean angle is changing and whether the combination means the vehicle is headed for a rollover .
It attaches and fastens to the windshield and stows away without any latching snapping or zipping from the driver .
Here s the worst according to Williams .
Suzuki boasts that the Aerio has more interior volume than the Honda Civic Toyota Corolla Dodge Neon and Nissan Sentra – however they didn t mention the Aerio AWD s main competitors the Toyota Matrix AWD Pontiac Vibe AWD and Subaru Impreza TS AWD wagon .
Auto Tech MMT gasoline additiveAutomobile manufacturers and environmentalists are both opposed to the use of the gasoline additive MMT Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl because they say it harms engine components and the environment .
The Hummer H2 can drive up a 31 degree 60 slope The H2 s off road capabilities are impressive .
The H2 moved quickly from concept to production and to accomplish that many off the shelf GM parts were used .
The downside to the AWD system like all AWD systems is that it adds about 80 kilograms 176 lb. to the Aerio s curb weight – which reduces acceleration times slightly and lowers the average fuel consumption by about 8 .
And you thought auto journalists had an easy job. .
Still the Aerio SX is not meant to be an SUV pretender and a taller ride height would negatively impact its ride and handling quality .
The H2 can climb 60 slopes from a stop and traverse a 40 side slope .
April 23 20062006 Chrysler PacificaWith competitors eating away at DaimlerChrysler s minivan dominance the wagon like six passenger Pacifica may be DaimlerChrysler s next big hope .
Saab says the engines have unique pendulum engine mountings and rods at the base to reduce engine noise and vibration .
Loan CalculatorUse this calculator to determine monthly payments including PST and GST .
Mercedes may be aiming the new E class at a younger audience but even in their rampant enthusiasm they understand they re not going to reach someone like me who can t afford much less really understand the lifestyle that goes along with owning such a fabulous automobile .
June 19 2006 Preview 2006 Saab 9 3 by Greg Wilson Click image to enlarge > Details of the redesigned 2006 Saab 9 3 released last month reveal a car that has abandoned some of its traditional quirkiness in favour of the mass market appeal of a mainstream sport sedan .
Yawning constantly .
The Hummer H2 is tough but it isn t tough to drive one .
A luxury version of the recently redesigned 2006 Ford Explorer the Aviator will offer six or seven passenger seating a 302 horsepower 4.6 litre V8 engine and 5 speed automatic transmission a maximum towing capacity of 3311 kg 7300 lb. a four wheel independent suspension and a host of standard luxury and safety features .
But a lot of people said VW couldn t compete in the mid size market with a car like Passat at all and it has done very well .
Exterior colour choices include Gold Ash Metallic Ceramic White Tricoat Vivid Red Metallic late availability Silver Birch Metallic Medium Wedgewood Blue Metallic Aspen Green Metallic Mineral Grey Metallic and Ebony. 302 horsepower 4.6 litre V8 The Aviator will borrow the Explorer’s optional 4.6 litre V8 engine as standard equipment with a horsepower increase from 270 to 302 .
Bid Sell and Collect at eBay > The Fine Print Disclaimer and Copyright Information CanadianDriver Communications Inc. its officers directors or shareholders and contributors to www.carquotes.ca are not responsible in any manner for direct indirect special or consequential damages however caused arising out of your use of this website and or any web browser .
For 2006 the Expedition s track width has been increased by 1.7 in. but that s a good thing because it improves stability and handling .
The other common down time is mid afternoon .
The W8 engine doesn t weigh much more than the V6 and chassis settings are very similar so ride and handling are similar too namely excellent .
Links to other websites from www.carquotes.ca are for convenience only .
Now these tough go anywhere vehicles are joined by another Hummer model the H2 .
My experience with SUV s is that full size models are considerably wider than mid sized models and have better handling and stability and less lean in the corners .
It also gives the Expedition a class leading 8 900 lb. towing capacity and a payload capacity 733 kg 1 615 .
It has four big doors a low step in height and a high roof all of which makes it easy to get in and out without stooping stepping or stumbling .
Safety features The Aviator offers Ford’s Personal Safety System which includes dual stage front air bags three point lap and shoulder belts for all seating positions first and second row outboard positions are height adjustable childproof rear door locks and LATCH system second row safety belt pretensioners and load limiting retractors and a side curtain air bag system which provides protection in side impacts and rollovers .
That and liberal doses of chrome found everywhere from the massive door handles to the 19 spoke grille .
However let s get back to the latest research by the automotive industry and how it affects our vehicles .
I expected to be jolted and jarred over every bump and crack but I wasn t .
Information on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide financial legal or consumer advice and should not be relied upon in that regard .
The symptoms are similar to Parkinson s Disease .
It may not have been invited into such select company but it seems to like the territory fits in well and plans to stay .
The Aerio SX AWD includes standard variable intermittent wipers and a rear wiper with washer very useful in the winter .
Click image to enlarge The Aerio s unusual orange coloured digital instrument display looks a bit hokey at first but after driving it for a while I found the large speedometer readout easy to read and the semi circular tachometer easy to see although the numbers are a bit small .
With a 2.64 1 reduction in 4 Low the Hummer H2 crawls up steep slopes with ease and uses the excellent engine braking to descend them just as easily .
Get going a little too fast and the R s huge four piston brake calipers and four wheel discs 14.3 inch in front can set you on your nose .
Too bad really because the M45 is a significant new addition to the mid size luxury sedan class .
Braking is handled by four wheel disc brakes with anti lock control and electronic brakeforce distribution .
Is the four cylinder engine finally getting some respect .
Front seat side air bags are now supplemented with front and rear.side curtain airbags .
With a signal capacity 50 times greater than conventional wire circuitry fiber optics provide a high speed platform for advanced in car infotainment .
Click image to enlarge Inside the car features an interior that differs significantly from the A4 sedan but again doesn t lose the A4 identity .
The wheelbase is a smidgen shorter than on the 97 car and the trunk is 10 per cent smaller .
I have to give credit to General Motors for their Mobility Program .
Since this four door sedan was introduced in 1999 it has become the fastest selling Jaguar model in history .
The new Passat just adds to the confusion .
Organizations like Automotive Service Excellence allow technicians to correspond electronically with qualified technicians across the continent .
The risk of a motor vehicle accident for these people is approximately four times higher than normal says Dr .
Feature Ford Interceptor police carFord s Crown Victoria police car is the acknowledged successor to the Chevrolet Caprice but Ford is not resting on its laurels .
Sometimes the driver is woken by driving on to a gravel shoulder then over corrects and shoots across the road .
Opinion Marketing MitsubishiOnly three years ago Mitsubishi was in serious trouble .
The Matrix and Vibe are virtually the same cars but the Vibe has more standard equipment .
But will these improvements be enough to boost its perennially poor sales performance .
In the book s introduction Bradsher says SUV s roll over too easily killing and injuring occupants at an alarming rate and are dangerous to other road users inflicting catastrophic damage to cars that they hit and pose a lethal threat to pedestrians .
Photos GM Canada .
And it includes many unique safety features including the curtain air bags .
Built in Canada Click image to enlarge Though still a concept the Interceptor is based on the 2006 Ford Crown Victoria Interceptor police car which is made exclusively at Ford of Canada s St .
It s designed to look intimidating and perform its duties with unparalleled skill and unwavering bravery .
But Stefan Krebsfanger of VW of America s product planning department said that while they could make a business case for a new engine crash testing and certifying a different body would have been too expensive for a low volume car like this .
Spark plugs need to be changed more frequently .
The branding strategy worked and Mitsubishi sales soared .
The launch of New Range Rover is very significant for the company .
However at high speeds the fuel gauge did drop rapidly .
Additional refining of the fuel will increase the octane rating .
Should the front wheels start to slip up to 50 of the power can be directed to the rear wheels .
Finally the auto industry blames MMT for degrading emissions components on vehicles and decreasing fuel economy .
Its unique crossover design combines interior roominess and car like driving manners .
That s a big statement when you consider all the high performance Corvettes of the 1960 s and 1970 s Under the hood you find 405 horses worth of third generation 5.7 litre small block V8 .
Owners should be especially careful backing up .
Oldsmobile could rightly claim to be the first domestic luxury brand to introduce a mid sized luxury SUV the Bravada .
Brakes are front discs rear drums with ABS standard equipment on the SX model .
About time too .
No seat heaters though .
Test Drive 2006 Ford Focus SVTThe SVT Focus is no pretender says editor Greg Wilson .
Click image to enlarge Another feature that will appear on the Aviator later in the model year is a tire pressure monitoring system that will alert the driver when any of the vehicle s tires including the spare becomes severely under or over inflated .
For 2006 Suzuki has added a new standard five year 100 000 km powertrain warranty which includes five years of roadside assistance – that s in addition to the standard bumper to bumper 3 year 60 000 km warranty .
The floor had been lowered from the firewall to the rear axle with 59 1 2 inches floor to ceiling height available .
Although a few components are recognisable they still complement that powerful unique Hummer image .
Audio climate telephone and the optional navigation system can be operated with Jaguar s optional voice activation system .
When the electronic shift transfer case is shifted into low range the throttle programming also changes to allow better off road control .
April 10 20062006 Honda ElementDescribed by Honda as a all in one adventure tool that s easy to clean easy to live in and hauls a bunch of stuff the 2006 Honda Element is designed for young singles with outdoor lifestyles .
It should be Double Vee not Double You because the engine is essentially two Vee four engines mated onto a common crankcase .
When lowered the top stows beneath a smart plastic boot that delivers a tailored completely flat surface behind the rear seat .
Click image to enlarge Extra lighting For night work the Interceptor concept features high intensity discharge HID headlamps flanked by halogen strobe lights and a light bar on top with flashing halogen and strobe lights which features sun snow and fog modes for use in extreme weather conditions .
SX models come with standard 15 inch tires but even they look tiny on the Aerio s tall bodystyle .
Drive it smoothly and the Z06 rewards you with cornering ability that makes the adrenaline surge .
Even if one was not concerned about the environmental impact you should be aware of the cost to vehicle owners in decreased fuel economy and increased maintenance .
The raised centre console includes a large open storage bin under the conrol panel two cupholders with flexible cup grips and a huge covered storage bin between the front seats .
The Passat W8 is also a step towards the W12 Phaeton which VW launches this year in Europe next year here .
The front seats have a soft cloth covering firm but comfortable seat cushions and ample thigh and torso support .
This is exactly what 75 year old Jean Donnelly does .
When compared to vehicles fuelled without MMT additive vehicles with MMT had 31 more HC emissions when tested after driving 160 000 km .
Dispatchers can check a Web site to see where the vehicle is its speed and based on vehicle data it can report the type of vehicle and emergency status .
The car is a pleasure to drive .
Standard equipment was way more meager as well Mercedes has even finally tossed in a CD player for free as are seat heaters keyless entry and a power adjusting steering wheel .
But the cause may be reported as alcohol or drugs not as fatigue .
Buyers who want a more practical bodystyle opt for wagons or wagon like hatchbacks they say .
There have been several surveys which have demonstrated that a significant proportion of truck drivers have fallen asleep he says .
Not that I can afford an E320 anyway at a base price of 69 950 but after a week behind its oddly styled but exceptionally comfortable steering wheel I definitely want one .
Payload capacity733 kg 1 615 lb .
The other two are alcohol and speeding .
It definitely has what the dealers refer to as eyeball .
A battered overnight bag with clothing bursting out at all angles .
The pre 1993 Saab 900 for example the forerunner to the 9 3 had Saab s trademark whale tail styling an enormous cargo area an ignition key on the floor so that in a crash your knees weren t imprinted with the keys on your keyring and a flat dashboard with an upright windshield that was just a few inches in front of your face .
The only snag is that the rear head restraints have to be removed before folding down the rear seatbacks .
Driving impressions Click image to enlarge Perhaps because of its size or its mass or its excellent visibility the Expedition certainly feels safe .
That is not all .
A four speed automatic transmission is coupled to a full time four wheel drive transfer case .
I m not going to touch that line .
When closed the hatch automatically locks when the driver s door is locked and unlocks when all the doors are unlocked using a key or remote entry key fob .
We ll see .
We believe it is essential that people instantly recognize the new vehicle as a Range Rover .
I also watch my diet before I leave and on the journey and make sure I have plenty of sleep before I start out on a long drive .
Consequently even though the A4 is the entry level Audi the manufacturer treats it like royalty .
Anyone who has drunk alcohol or taken some medications especially allergy medications or drugs .
First some ice and my shoes had a disagreement and I ended up with a broken arm .
Special Report The new Mitsubishis Mitsubishi s Canadian debut gives Canuck car buyers more choices but can this Japanese newcomer hope to compete against established heavyweights like Honda and Toyota .
No that s not what car stylists do after a wild night .
But it s heavy on gas and requires a pretty big parking spot .
The H2 wheelbase is just over 7 inches shorter than the Hummer H1 but the body is actually 5.3 inches longer .
Durability was an important part of the Z06 design .
There is the base 3.0 litre V6 and the 4.2 litre V8 but the big news for 2006 has to be the new R model .
It s likely however that Saab researchers have done their homework .
Attached to the light bar atop the vehicle NightEye CCD cameras require a very low amount of light to operate enabling officers to improve their vision at night and in all areas around the stopped vehicle .
Now based on a similar ladder type platform to the U.S. only Lexus GX470 the 2006 4Runner is offered with both V6 and V8 powerplants and offers a much improved interior .
Winner2006 Jacques Rainville Best New Web Site Award Search CanadianDriver Browse the Directory The Directory Index Clubs Enthusiasts Events Manufacturers Miscellaneous Motorsports Organizations Parts Buy and Sell Services Zines What s New What s Cool Top Rated Search 2000 Canadian links Our free weekly newsletterJoin Now > 1999 Ford Escort Sedan The 1997 Escort came with improvements to the steering ride and handling and a bigger more powerful 110 horsepower 2.0 litre engine reports Bob McHugh .
Once underway it works well to repel rain ice and sleet he says but he has some serious concerns about the toxicity of the chemicals used in Rain X De Icer .
September 27 2006 Photo Laurance Yap .
Losing money and viewed as old fashioned the company set a course to re brand itself as North America s hip new car company .
With 316 horsepower the Vortec 6.0 litre engine made it easy to cruise at speeds well above the limit and passing slower vehicles a breeze .
In A4WD the Expedition operates in rear wheel drive most of the time but when the rear wheels slip engine torque is distributed from the rear to the front via a transfer case clutch .
We re all sleep deprived .
A handy on off overdrive button allows you to lock out fourth gear when you want to maintain engine speed going up a hill or to keep it from dropping into overdrive during city driving .
This also functions as part of a comprehensive rollover protection system that includes spring loaded support posts at the rear .
Drowsy drivers react more slowly miss road signs and misjudge distances .
The 1998 Town Car cabin is very much a limousine look .
These deploy in an accident to help protect the occupants .
I m 5 9 tall and was able to stand under the hatch when it was open .
GM expects about 20 of the estimated 35 000 Corvettes to be built for the 2006 model year will be Z06 models .
Any time I feel my eyelids getting heavy I pull over and sleep says Ms .
Driven by Laurance Yap .
Engine3.0 litre V 6 dual overhead camshafts 220 h.p. at 6300 r.p.m. 221 lb. ft. of torque at 3200 r.p.m .
In the month of August sales of sport utility vehicles in Canada increased dramatically and most automakers have touted plans to increase the number of SUV variants from luxury SUV s to car like compact SUV s that they offer to the public .
A compact but 30 inch wide fold out wheelchair ramp was mounted by the passenger side sliding door .
Alcohol and drug impairments accounted for another 4 700 and inattentiveness for 21 597 .
The Town Car even in 1998 was the last American brand rear drive full size luxury sedan .
The six speed option enables you to engage with the car more directly but it s still a somewhat platonic relationship you know the car can do quite well without your help .
The curve of the rear cockpit surround has a distinctive look that s very Audi .
In fact the SX s spoiler and side sills are likely to get in the way in the snow .
Bob Evans Executive Director of CRASH Canadians for Responsible and Safe Highways paints a less rosy picture .
Fuel consumptionCity 12.3 l 100 km 23 mpg Hwy 7.7 l 100 km 37 mpg Warranty3 yrs 60 000 km More Test Drives... .
Bradsher is perhaps the harshest of many vocal SUV critics ranging from environmentalists to safety advocates who decry SUV s size weight poor fuel consumption and alleged roll over propensity .
For those who don t remember how quirky Saabs were prior to General Motors takeover they were known and appreciated for unusual exterior and interior design and lively performance from small but powerful four cylinder engines .
The floor is 30 inches long and the ceiling is a minimum of 31 inches high .
With a properly executed push in the corner of the fleeing vehicle the push beam will force the suspect s vehicle into a spin .
I was surprised by the power the quality of ride both on and off road and the quiet comfortable interior .
CanadianDriver editor Greg Wilson briefly drives all seven new Mitsubishis and reports on Mitsubishis prospects above the 49th parallel .
The rest were ascribed to other or unknown causes .
The split folding rear seatbacks fold down to increase luggage space .
The ads ask Are you in .
Available to residents of Southern and Eastern Ontario.. .
Externally the car combines flowing lines with an aggressive stance .
It probably ran off the road .
Technical Data 2006 Corvette Z06 Base price 75 495 Freight 1 050 Type2 door 2 passenger sport coupe Layoutlongitudinal front engine rear wheel drive Engine5.7 litre OHV V8 Horsepower405 6000 rpm Torque400 lb ft 4800 rpm Transmission6 speed manual TiresFront P265 40ZR17 Rear P295 35ZR18 Goodyear Eagle F 1 SC Curb weight1414 kg. 3119 lb .
Click image to enlarge .
This is inevitable unless rear quarter lights are added to the design which would be both impractical and unsightly .
Width2 000 mm 78.7 in .
September 11 2006 Click image to enlarge First Drive 2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet Story and photos by Paul Williams Click image to enlarge > According to Len Hunt VP of Audi USA The Audi A4 is the engine of our success and the engine of our growth .
Chevrolet Venture with rampClick image to enlarge So how does the GM Mobility program work .
April 2 20062006 Saturn IONSaturn s S Series sedans and coupes will be replaced by the all new ION sedan and quad coupe this October .
When the Aviator comes to showrooms this summer it will provide domestic buyers with a proven alternative to the many import brands out there .
The only options will be a power moonroof a DVD rear seat entertainment system and a Class III towing package .
Controls and gauges are well placed and the electrically adjustable steering wheel and pedal positions make finding that perfect driving position easy .
Engine aside the eight cylinder Passat is remarkably unchanged from the fewer cylindered versions .
Wheelbase2909 mm 114.5 in .
Keeping a close eye on the speedo or using cruise is recommended .
Now a new study by the Canadian and US automotive industry has brought the issue of its use into the forefront again .
August 21 2006 MMT gasoline additive by Jim Kerr Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl .
There are multiple wheelchair tie down locations in the van s centre area .
Test Drive Auto Links Index Clubs Enthusiasts Events Manufacturers Miscellaneous Motorsports Organizations Parts Buy and Sell Services Zines What s New What s Cool Top Rated Search Find automotive web sites across Canada .
The best way to keep yourself on the road and out of trouble is to stop if you are tired .
The verdict Large powerful and comfortable traditional full size sedan Pros Love that daring new styling art deco is back Well equipped New rear suspension improves ride and handling as does Touring package Big quiet and comfortable with good power Cons Parallel parking is a big challenge No side airbags Dashboard controls a stretch Find a way to tuck aside the trunk s spare tire Overall Score 7.5 out of 10 Be informed Buyer s alerts Recalls Specifications Report Cards Road Test Access B Driving position B Instruments Controls C Visibility C Climate Control C Steering C Brakes B Handling C Acceleration B Engine B Transmission B Interior space A Trunk Cargo B Noise Vibration Harshness A Durability Reliability Overall B Mechanical B Hardware Body Paint Trim B Safety Anti lock braking yes Airbags driver passenger yes yes Traction control yes Driver Passenger Front Crash Protection 0 5 stars with five stars the best Insurance history Collision cost rating better than average Comprehensive cost rating better than average Theft claim cost rating average 1998 Lincoln Town Car1998 Lincoln Town CarClick image to enlarge Jeremy Cato is an award winning print and broadcast journalist .
Wherever you re driving you ll be hard pressed to hear anything but the sound of your heart beating .
The clutch is connected to a precise shifting 6 speed manual gearbox with wider ratios to enhance performance .
The centre stack has a new outside temperature gauge and digital clock on the top above the AM FM CD cassette stereo .
All articles website reviews and information in CanadianDriver are protected under the copyright laws of Canada and or other countries .
Drivers most likely to be at risk Anyone who has had insufficient sleep .
First Drive 2006 Saturn Ion sedanBased on GM s new Delta small car platform the Ion is not only larger and roomier than the S Series which it replaces it has a new engine and transmission a new suspension new steering system new interior the works .
September 17 2006 Photos General Motors .
Between midnight and 6 a.m. you re at highest risk .
A DVD based navigation system telematics second generation AdvanceTrac late availability and a five spoke chrome wheel will be available later in the model year .
Used Cars Auto Links Index Clubs Enthusiasts Events Manufacturers Miscellaneous Motorsports Organizations Parts Buy and Sell Services Zines What s New What s Cool Top Rated Search Find automotive web sites across Canada .
Satellite Navigation .
Perhaps they ve forgotten that a hatchback offers the looks of a sedan or a fastback with a lot more cargo space and versatility .
We never even came close to finding the limits of this SUV .
Most extensive automotive systems use of fibre optics .
The dashboard uses two main gauges speedometer and tachometer spaced further apart than the sedan .
The base Aerio S AWD model doesn t have that extra bodywork and would probably be a better winter vehicle .
The hatch opening is large and the liftover height is only 25 inches so it s easy to load heavy items .
The Aerio SX AWD Fastback is 22 895 – again 2 000 more than the suggested retail price for the front wheel drive Aerio SX Fastback .
Highs Lowest priced eight cylinder German car you can buy .
Ford did a reasonable job in re doing the 1998 Town Car although some limo drivers have complained about its trunk being smaller than the rival Cadillac DeVille .
Overall the new Expedition is less trucky and more family oriented than last year s Expedition and a much more pleasurable vehicle to drive particularly considering it s a full size SUV .
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Subaru Impreza Volvo S40 Mitsubishi Lancer and the redesigned 2006 Dodge Ram pickup good while the Kia Sedona was rated acceptable .
Expect Canada to get about 10 of that number .
With the same great styling but a new car beneath the S Type is faster smoother safer and loaded with extras .
Length4877 mm 192.0 in .
Some may not like its chunky styling or its unusual digital instruments but that s about all there is to complain about .
Try zero to 60 mph times in 3.9 seconds or down the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds Click image to enlarge Fire up the engine and you are greeted by a deep throaty rumble from the tuned exhaust .
If the numbers are hard to comprehend think of the steepest slopes on mountain highways .
Click image to enlarge For instance while couch camping at my friend Robin s place in Halifax I left the still gleaming four door parked out on a downtown street not more than a couple of blocks from Halifax s drug and immigrant smuggling container docks and it remained remarkably unscathed during my stay .
Automatic air conditioning six CD in dash changer and full power equipment ensure occupants are as refreshed at the end of the journey as the beginning .
Photo Suzuki Canada .
When most of us think of physically challenged people we think of those with disabilities we can see lost limbs wheel chairs walkers and so on .
All three rows of seats have plenty of headroom and legroom although the third seat is a little less comfortable .
Click image to enlarge For its base price of 22 895 the Aerio SX AWD Fastback includes standard 195 55R 15 tires air conditioning aluminum wheels fog lamps AM FM CD cassette stereo with 6 speakers power steering power door locks power windows heated power mirrors dual air bags tachometer tilt steering wheel split rear seatbacks 2 speed variable intermittent wipers cargo area underfloor storage chrome muffler tip digital clock and ambient temperature display cloth seats body coloured bumpers and mirrors cruise control rear window defogger engine block heater rear door child safety locks rear spoiler rear wiper washer and remote keyless entry .
Consequently people banged their horns at him shook their fists and pretty much ran him off the road says Williams .
Stability at speeds way over the legal limit is impressive and the engine and five speed automatic transmission make for a perfect pairing every time the roads open up toe into the gas and the box drops a couple of gears and the motor really starts to sing .
Verdict A big SUV that s surprisingly easy to drive and extremely versatile a good alternative to a minivan for the family that wants to head out to the cabin in summer or winter .
Maybe it s the cool new ad campaign or the product placement in this summer s Men In Black II movie or maybe it s just the car .
It s simply huge swallowing a week s worth of luggage my tripod and a pile of books I couldn t find anywhere else with ease .
Reader s View Not all CD changers have shuffling capability When CanadianDriver reader Gary James ordered a new Dodge Caravan he thought he d ordered a CD changer that could randomly shuffle CD s not so he discovered and the Caravan isn t the only minivan that doesn t offer true shuffle capabilities .
At a glance Base price 70 745 Price as tested 81 005 Type4x4 four door SUV EngineVortec 6.0 litre V8 producing 316 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 360 lb.ft. torque at 4000 rpm TransmissionFour speed automatic electric shift transfer case Cruising range 499 kilometres at 50 kph over rolling terrain Suspension Front independent double A arms torsion bars .
Then there s VW s corporate cousin the Audi A4 .
Since the car was primarily aimed at North America something would have to be done and it was the final drive ratio was shortened from an Autobahn friendly 2.91 1 to a more drag racing oriented 3.50 1 an exceptionally large 20 percent numerical increase .
Craig reports from Ottawa .
The floor shift lever has a straight gate and the lever falls easily into the right hand .
Transmissioncontinuously variable multitronic front wheel drive TiresP215 55 R16 P235 45 R17 with performance package BrakesDisc disc Fuel consumptionL 100 km City 11.5 Hwy. 8.1 Warranty4 80 000 with maintenance and four year roadside AvailableOctober 2006 Standard features include Remote keyless entry dual zone climate control one touch up and down for all power windows 12 way power front seats leather upholstery Front wheel drive with electronic safety systems anti lock brakes electronic trip computer Audi Symphony 180W stereo with six disc in dash CD player first aid kit Options Premium package Sport package xenon headlights Bose sound heated front seats premium leather 12 way power sport front seats Audi navigation system .
As an element Manganese is not biodegradeable so it will accumulate in the soil and air over time .
Working with other companies on mobility issues is another important aspect .
Has the 9 3 joined the collective .
The engine is extremely quiet when pushed hard that distinctive exhaust note is just nicely audible .
The exterior is thoroughly modern yet retains all the distinctive Range Rover styling cues said Dover .
Lows Seat cushions too short .
The padded convertible top is triple layered with a heated glass rear window .
Your poorest performances are in the early morning hours .
The high strength stainless steel and cast aluminum push bar is used for assisting stranded vehicles but it can also be used as an offensive tool during a car chase .
First Drive Auto Links Index Clubs Enthusiasts Events Manufacturers Miscellaneous Motorsports Organizations Parts Buy and Sell Services Zines What s New What s Cool Top Rated Search Find automotive web sites across Canada .
Three models make up the S Type line up .
Consumer Information Archive of articles Search CanadianDriver Entire Site Auto News Test Drives Price Guide Auto Directory The WebGet your own free Search Engine CanadianDriver and cars4u.com now offer.. .
With the optional AdvanceTrac traction and stability control system the Aviator needs only one wheel with traction to get under way because the two systems combined allow torque to be shifted side to side and front to rear .
Click image to enlarge Some GM accessibility features seem small such as buttonless shifters to eliminate the need to squeeze a button to shift out of park. 360 degree door handles enable the full hand to grasp the handle instead of only the fingertips .
Even at the engine s 6600 rpm redline the engine sounds mellow and powerful .
Find out how much interest you will pay over the term of a loan .
Less commonplace maybe .
Constable Eric Booth of the Ontario Provincial Police recalls that it looked as though he had everything he owned with him .
Those shopping should also take note that the most desirable used Town Car is the Signature Touring Sedan .
Interior colour choices will include a two tone Light Parchment Espresso or two tone Medium Ash Dark Ash .
The large windows including a third side window at the rear and small triangular windows in front of the outside mirrors help provide excellent visibility .
Click image to enlarge Time with the car also revealed some other clever features a handy cell phone drawer in the dash a bi level console bin with a cooler in the bottom section a glasses box covered by a powered door and an endlessly amusing array of options available on the trip computer display on the dash .
Canadians will see the strategy at work when the company launches its fall advertising campaign in October .
A range of options including xenon lights Bose sound auto dimming mirrors navigation system and heated seats is also available .
Second row passengers also have their own radio controls and heater air conditioning controls which include fan speed and temperature adjustment .
For 2006 the 9 3 comes with a choice of three new lightweight 2.0 litre all aluminum turbocharged engines ranging in power from 150 to 210 horsepower and for the European market a 125 horsepower 2.2 litre turbo diesel .
October 2 2006 Click image to enlarge Test Drive 2006 Jaguar S Type R By Jim Kerr Styling is what attracts buyers to Jaguar first .
Saab officials say they abandoned the traditional hatchback concept because their research shows that almost 60 per cent of cars in the premium segment are sedans the remaining 40 per cent being wagons convertibles and coupes .
And Vector with 17 inch alloy wheels and a sports leather fabric interior with matt chrome trim .
A special extended wiring harness comes as part of the package so the factory harness doesn t have to be cut and spliced during the conversion .
But managing editor Grant Yoxon asks Where s the beef .
When the top is up the car seems as quiet inside as a sedan .
I found the rear seats very comfortable .
National Highway Transportation Administration NHTSA web site www.nhtsa.dot.gov .
More volume means more profits and that s the name of the game isn t it .
Power is no good unless you can put it to the ground and the Z06 does that in spades .
Used Car Review First Drive 2006 MazdaSpeed Proteg Laurance Yap says the 2006 MazdaSpeed Proteg is nothing like any Proteg you or I have ever driven before .
The features list goes on .
Bad driving habits are to blame he says .
There are also many people that have difficulties we can t see bad hearts breathing problems and even old age .
In comparing prices it should be noted that Aerio SX AWD comes well equipped while the Impreza TS has less standard equipment .
The system works smoothly and made even me look good on the autocross course .
When the traction control button is pressed while in Locked mode the traction control programming changes to allow more wheel spin to dig through loose terrain .
There s not a lot of room behind the third row seats maybe enough for seven paper grocery bags but the split folding rear seats on the Eddie Bauer model can be folded down with the press of a button .
A lot of the S Type features are not obvious at first glance .
Feature AMG Mercedes tuner divisionMercedes Benz offers an AMG modified variant of just about every model it imports .
Some 1 500 kilometres later he drove his car into the back of a transport truck parked on the shoulder of the highway .
Trunk space is generous .
Overall there is an art deco air to this big rear drive luxury car which is now on the cusp of a major upgrade .
The big trunk came in handy too when we passed into Fredericton and I made my ritual stop at the Owl s Nest used bookstore .
This keeps you cool and dry on a really hot day .
The PT Turbo s turbocharged 2.4 litre four banger will develop 215 horsepower 65 more than the PT Cruiser .
There are several reasons to be concerned about MMT .
As the sun slipped beneath the horizon we appreciated the car s soft ambient lighting which gave the interior an expensive restaurant hah we thought feel and the power and clarity of the optional bi xenon headlights .
It s amazing what a nap can do .
In the normal 4 Hi open mode the transfer case differential allows a 60 rear 40 front torque split .
My guess is these cars are close to the Aerio s interior volume particularly the Matrix and Vibe which are similar in overall dimensions .
And lots of it While the 2006 model was fast Dave Hill Corvette s chief engineer says the 2006 car is the quickest Vette to date .
With 400 ft lbs of torque the Z06 offers outstanding acceleration .
Compare insurance ratesFree Online Quote Recent Test Drives 2006 Ford Focus SVT 2006 Jaguar S Type R 2006 Suzuki Aerio AWD 2006 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 2006 Subaru Forester 2006 Nissan 350Z 2006 Dodge Dakota Sport Quad Cab 4X4 2006 Lexus RX 300 2006 Mercedes Benz SL 500 2006 Audi A4 1.8T CVT 2006 Honda Pilot 2006 Cadillac CTS 2006 Infiniti G35 2006 Audi S6 Avant 2006 MINI Cooper S 2006 Ford Thunderbird 2006 Infiniti Q45 2006 Porsche Boxster 2006 Volvo V70 2.4 2006 Land Rover Freelander 2006 Chrysler Sebring GTC convertible 2006 Chrysler Concorde LXi 2006 BMW 74iA 2006 Honda Civic SiR 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche 2500 2006 Subaru Legacy Special Edition More Test Drives Recent First Drives 2006 MazdaSpeed Protege 2006 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty 2006 Mercedes Benz S Class 2006 Saturn Ion sedan 2006 Toyota 4Runner 2006 Mercedes Benz E320 2006 Infiniti M45 2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet 2006 Porsche Boxster 2006 Kia Sorento 2006 Hummer H2 2006 Mercedes Benz CLK coupe Ford SVT Focus 2006 Honda Accord sedan 2006 Nissan 350Z 2006 Mercedes Benz E Class 2006 Subaru Forester 2006 VW Passat W8 2006 Infiniti G35 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid 2006 Honda Pilot MINI Cooper and Cooper S 2006 Mazda6 2006 Porsche 911 Targa and Carrera 4S 2006 Honda Civic SiR 2006 Suzuki Aerio 2006 Hyundai Tiburon 2.7 Litre V6 2006 Toyota Matrix 2006 Pontiac Vibe 2006 Cadillac CTS 2006 Audi A6 More First Drives Previews 2006 Maybach Honda FCX fuel cell car 2006 Audi A8 2006 Ford Focus FCV fuel cell car 2006 Saab 9 3 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander Mercedes Benz Vision GST 2006 Infiniti M45 2006 VW GTI 337 2006 Porsche Cayenne 2006 Nissan Murano 2006 Chrysler Pacifica 2006 MazdaSpeed Protegé 2006 Chrysler PT Turbo 2006 Honda Element 2006 Ford Mustang Mach 1 2006 Lincoln Aviator 2006 Saturn ION 2006 Pontiac Sunfire Coupe 2006 Subaru Forester 2006 Nissan 350Z Bentley Arnage T Saab 93 X 2006 Kia Sorento 2006 Honda Pilot 2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet More Previews Used Car Reviews 1998 2006 VW New Beetle 1996 2006 BMW Z3 1990 95 Ford Taurus 1991 94 Nissan Sentra 1997 2006 Jeep Cherokee 1990 96 Buick Century 1997 2006 Chevrolet Corvette 1999 2006 Nissan Quest 1996 2000 Hyundai Elantra 1999 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 1999 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1998 2006 Honda Accord sedan 1998 2006 Lincoln Town Car 1997 2006 Honda Prelude 1999 2006 Toyota Camry Solara More Used Car Reviews Consumer Links Online Magazines About.com cars Canadian Red Book CarCostCanada.com Phil Bailey s Auto World Sympatico Automotive Consumer Resources Automobile Protection Association Auto mart Lemon Aid Market Place Canada Safety Council Transport Canada recalls Maintenance AutoDigest Paint FAQ Used Car Information U.S .
There are six interior colours available for the Cabriolet 11 exterior colours including four exclusive to the Cabriolet and four colours for the top .
Click image to enlarge Speaking of wheels or tires the 2006 Expedition now has larger standard 17 inch tires and wheels for improved traction and a tire pressure monitor to warn of low inflation .
Handling is balanced and very neutral even when pushed hard in the twisties with minimal body roll and a comfortable ride on broken pavement .
People with more than one job particularly if one has an unusual or changing schedule .
Feature Freelanders in IcelandWhen Land Rover introduces a new model to the media it s usually in a remote far flung location like Kopta Kinabalu Malaysia or the steppes of Mongolia as befits Land Rover s safari capable reputation .
It also has a useful on off overdrive button for holding the car in gear going up or down grades or for locking out fourth gear when driving around town .
More Test Drives... .
Some say it s a non starter .
All S Types are also equipped with electronic stability control four channel ABS and Panic Assist braking which helps apply the brakes in emergency situations .
Canadian automakers are building cars capable of reducing smog causing emissions by over 99 when compared to vehicles built before controls but this is hampered by MMT .
April 15 20062006 Chrysler PT TurboThe 2006 Chrysler PT Turbo will give the PT Cruiser what a good honest retro 40 s hot rod should have had in the first place horsepower .
Length5 228 mm 205.8 in .
Lee discovered that Transport Canada is evaluating different types of small cars and motorcycles to see how they would fare in the Canadian motoring environment .
The new Expedition with all of the improvements I ve mentioned is easier to handle steer brake and maneuver than the previous model which wasn t that bad anyway .
This study which is the largest and most comprehensive MMT test program ever conducted showed that 7 out of 8 low emission passenger cars failed emissions tests when using fuel with MMT over time .
Here s what makes the Interceptor concept so intimidating. .
The new 9 3 supports hands free voice control and calling via a Bluetooth headset as well as wireless dial up networking functionality using a Bluetooth PDA or laptop .
The driver crashed late at night .
The pronunciation I mean .
For information on vehicle service bulletins issued by the manufacturer visit www.nhtsa.dot.gov .
To be powered by a BMW 4.4 litre V8 engine which is currently used in X5 7 Series and 5 Series models the new Range Rover will offer an all new four wheel independent MacPherson strut suspension front and rear replacing the solid axles now used at the front and rear .
With a turning diameter of 11.8 38.7 feet 11.8 meters the Expedition is surprisingly maneuverable for such a big vehicle .
The switch can be used manually or the computer will disengage the brake when the transmission is shifted out of park and reapply the brake when the ignition key is removed .
Several other additives including alcohol can increase the octane rating of gasoline and are much more environmentally friendly .
His only complaint no head restraints on the rear seats .
The Expedition s new variable assist power rack and pinion steering system replaces the previous recirculating ball steering system making steering easier and more accurate .
Auto Tech Manual transmission shiftingManual transmissions have made a comeback says Jim Kerr but the principles of operation have remained the same for decades he says .
For improved safety and stability the new 9 3 will feature the latest electronic keep you out of trouble features such as Electronic Stability Program mechanical brake assist EBD Electronic Brake force Distribution CBC Cornering Brake Control and TCS Traction Control System all standard .
The 2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet is sure to continue the appeal but they won t be quite as rare. 20 000 will be available worldwide built in collaboration with Karmann .
They often drive aggressively .
But VW marketing staff say only about four percent of VW shoppers look at Audi and vice versa .
And with the press preview in Halifax over and an aversion to flying back home around September 11th at the back of my mind well why NOT drive the new E back to Toronto and make a trip of it .
The global reach of the Internet supports Land Rover in maintaining and growing the global brand .
The US and Canada will see 8 000 Cabriolets for 2006 .
Click image to enlarge Test Drive 2006 Suzuki Aerio AWD by Greg Wilson Click image to enlarge > Chunky runabout now available with all wheel drive Earlier this year I gave the thumbs up to the new Suzuki Aerio Fastback hatchback citing its roomy interior practical cargo carrying capabilities good fuel economy and reasonable price see 2006 Aerio Test Drive .
Carbon Monoxide CO emissions were 14 higher and Carbon Dioxide CO2 emissions were 2 higher .
Saab projects that the new 9 3 will help them double sales over the next five years helping them to compete with big name volume players like the BMW 3 Series Audi A4 and Volvo S60 .
The cars are so fully equipped that the fact that a trunk mounted six CD changer is not standard is a shock it s a dealer installed option .
Also conspicuous by its absence is satellite navigation .
The Aerio SX Fastback is simply a tall car based wagon with the extra traction of all wheel drive .
The Interceptor concept is a true professional law enforcement tool for the future said Chris Theodore vice president Ford North America Product Development at the vehicle s introduction .
Sufferers snore and choke during the night interrupting their sleep frequently .
Ground clearance is 9.9 inches at the differential .
Both competitors when equipped with a V8 are twenty grand more expensive .
That being said the steering is sharp and the car takes corners with confidence .
Not that we did but we could have .
Signs of sleep related crashes The crash happened at night or in the middle of the afternoon .
I was quite impressed with the Aerio s smooth comfortable ride and it s relatively stable handling and maneuverability .
The parking brake is an electric switch at the rear of the console .
They are then sleepy during the day .
I expected rough tight and noisy like the H1 .
Having to jerk your car back on track frequently .
But definitely more mainstream .
Saab officials say customers for the new 9 3 are younger on average aged 35 to 45 years old and place a higher priority on a sporty performance orientated experience .
The difference in fuel consumption between the two engines is only about 2 mpg .
The Premium model will include many standard luxury features such as Dual zone electronic climate control and an auxiliary climate control system for second and third row passengers AM FM premium sound system with in dash six disc compact disc changer cassette player and secondary controls mounted on the steering wheel Six way power adjustable driver and front passenger seats with power lumbar support and two memory settings for the driver s seat side mirrors brake and accelerator pedals .
Driving up steep grades on slippery side slopes up 12 inch vertical walls and over moguls that would twist the frame on normal vehicles I found the H2 was composed civilized and comfortable .
June 5 2006 GM Mobility Program by Jim Kerr Two events coincided recently to open my eyes to difficulties faced by physically challenged people .
There are alternatives and given what little we know about long term health effects and what we do know about increased vehicle maintenance why not use them .
Read their reports here .
The air bag system uses an array of sensors including ultrasonic to determine the severity of the accident the position of the occupants and how to deploy the airbags .
Fuel consumptionCity 18.5 l 100 km 15 mpg Hwy 9.2 l 100 km 30 mpg More Test Drives... .
It wasn t a big seller in North America but it had a distinctive character as did the Saab 9000 .
General Motors has had a Mobility Program in place for more than 20 years to help all people who have difficulty maintaining active lifestyles .
Feature Gutless no moreTraditionally perceived as wimpy underdogs to six cylinder engines four cylinder engines have experienced significant advances in engine technology lately improving horsepower noise levels and smoothness .
New Model Previews July 31 20062006 MaybachTony Whitney travelled to New York City to witness the arrival of the first Maybach super luxury car on the Queen Elizabeth 2 .
Half Moon Bay California Let s get one thing straight about Volkswagen s new Passat W8 .
The Aerio is more of an urban runabout with emphasis on functionality rather than performance .
The 2006 9 3 s fully independent suspension includes McPherson struts with lower A arms mounted on a hydroformed rubber isolated sub frame in front and a four link independent suspension at the rear .
Robert Dales head of respirology at the Ottawa Hospital and a certified sleep specialist agrees noting that many people have insufficient sleep because of their busy lives .
If you can conceive of a Volkswagen as direct competition for a similarly sized BMW 5 Series or Mercedes Benz E Class if you drove the cars badge free that wouldn t be a stretch then the Passat W8 is a huge bargain .
The Expedition is a bit bigger than the others and has the most standard torque the best towing capacity and is the only one with an independent rear suspension and power folding rear seats .
Product reviewer Paul Williams examines how they work and how to choose a system that s right for your needs .
Technical Data 2006 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer Base price 44 760 Price as tested 52 385 Eddie Bauer Type4 door 7 passenger full size SUV Layoutlongitudinal front engine Control Trac 4WD Engine 5.4 litre V8 SOHC 16 valves Horsepower260 4 500 rpm Torque350 lb ft 2 500 rpm Transmission 4 speed automatic Curb weight 2 579 kg 5 686 lb .
My sons would love it .
Click image to enlarge All four are worth test driving if you re thinking of buying an Aerio .
First Drive 2006 Hummer H2 by Jim Kerr Hummer .
The system requires no intervention from the driver and is completely automatic .
July 24 20062006 Audi A8The second generation of Audi s top of the line aluminium bodied A8 sedan has a stronger aluminium spaceframe 25 more horsepower a new 6 speed Tiptronic transmission and a new air suspension .
They fall asleep at the wheel .
Cargo volume585 litres 20.6 cu. ft. behind third seat 1 725 litres 60.9 cu. ft. behind 2nd seat 3 128 litres 110.5 cu. ft. all seats fold Fuel consumptionNA FuelRegular unleaded Warranty3 yrs 60 000 km More Test Drives... .
Dual zone automatic climate control power folding mirrors leather upholstery 8 way power seats heated seats front and rear Bose audio system and driver information centre are all integrated nicely into the bold interior design .
This combination is good for a 0 100 km h time of 7.7 seconds with a governed top speed of 208 km h .
The Aviator has a maximum towing capacity of 3311 kg 7 300 lb. 46 percent better than the V8 powered Mercedes Benz ML500 and 22 percent better than the BMW X5 4.4 .
Height1 971 mm 77.6 in .
First Drive 2006 Dodge Ram Heavy DutyWith two new engines a new heavy duty frame new steering systems improved front and rear suspensions new front and rear axles two new transfer cases larger standard wheels and tires and larger four wheel disc brakes a whole lot has changed on Dodge s heavy duty offerings .
Leather trimmed bucket seats hold one firmly in place and are very comfortable .
May 14 20062006 VW GTI 337Volkswagen took the wraps off a hot new GTI model at the recent New York International Automobile Show it s called the GTI 337 Edition and it s coming to Canada in mid to late July for a very reasonable asking price of 32 900 .
The only positives of MMT are increased fuel octane and low cost .
Insurance companies also recognize driver sleepiness as a major problem .
Dave Hill says about the 24 hour track test It s one test that is severe enough to give Corvette the robustness our owners expect .
Eight cylinders 275 horsepower and a fifty grand plus price tag may not be typically associated with the VW badge but the eight pot Passat sedan and wagon are already arriving in VW dealerships .
New Model Preview Auto Links Index Clubs Enthusiasts Events Manufacturers Miscellaneous Motorsports Organizations Parts Buy and Sell Services Zines What s New What s Cool Top Rated Search Find automotive web sites across Canada .
Laurie Rand the co owner of the Ontario School of Trucking says that sleep adjustment is often a self selector as new drivers are placed in a co op program with experienced truckers .
Iris Winston reports .
We believe the new Range Rover is the most capable vehicle in the world given its outstanding breadth of on and off road ability said the chairman and chief executive officer of Land Rover Bob Dover .
The Internet is a key channel through which we can engage consumers who may not have had a relationship with the brand previously .
Fatigue can be a killer for anyone behind the wheel of a moving vehicle of any size .
Feature Drowsy DriversThe number of collisions that can be directly attributed to driver fatique may be small but concern is increasing that tiredness is a factor in a growing number of accidents .
Crash Tests Subaru Impreza Mitsubishi Lancer earn Best Picks The U.S .
This can reduce braking distance 20 percent or more in real world conditions says Ford .
July 30 2006Honda FCX fuel cell carThe dream of fuel cell powered passenger cars came one step closer to reality last week when the Honda FCX V4 was certified by U.S. government agencies .
Jim Kerr is a master automotive mechanic and teaches automotive technology .
The new Focus FCV hybrid gets an assist from a new 300 volt battery pack which provides a horsepower boost when accelerating or climbing hills .
The Ottawa resident a former chauffeur for the commander of her Women s Royal Naval corps unit in World War II has a clean driving record after 60 years behind the wheel .
Capable of lifting 265 lbs. the seat can then move its occupant up into the vehicle .
Rear five link solid rear axle optional air spring Brakes four wheel disc brakes ABS traction control towing capacity 3039 kg 6 700 lbs .
The layers aren t stitched they re sonically welded to prevent leaks .
April 3 2006 Click image to enlarge Preview 2006 Lincoln Aviator by Greg Wilson Click image to enlarge > While the Big 3 automakers were the first to introduce mid size four door SUV’s such as the Ford Explorer Chevy Blazer and Jeep Cherokee import luxury brands like Mercedes Benz and Land Rover were the first to jump into the mid size luxury SUV market .
Even then the majority of fuel companies are still not using it and some states still ban its use Canada also tried to restrict MMT use .
So a pair of counter rotating balancing shafts was added .
Specifically its front seat headroom and legroom are best in class and no other mid size luxury SUV offers a choice of bucket or bench seats in the second row. the Aviator s standard third row seat folds flat to the floor .
Fuel Consumption GuideLink to Natural Resources Canada s fuel consumption guide .
As well the system includes new voice recognition software that allows the officer to speak to his vehicle without taking his hands off the steering wheel .
The letters U and V have been confused in various Latin related languages since before Year Zero remember all those V s on Roman buildings where there should be U s .
On the other side of the fence the proponents of MMT defend its usage by claiming others use partisan and inconclusive studies .
The driver s seat cushion is height adjustable .
Suzuki Canada s web site is www.suzuki.ca Technical Data 2006 Suzuki Aerio AWD SX Fastback Base price 22 895 Freight 995 Price as tested 23 890 Type4 door 5 passenger compact hatchback Layouttransverse front engine all wheel drive Engine2.0 litre 4 cylinder 16 valves Horsepower145 6 000 rpm Torque136 lb ft 3 000 rpm Transmission4 speed automatic std. 5 speed manual transmission Curb weight1 265 kg 2 789 lb .
In the US MMT was banned until 1995 when a court forced the Environmental Protection Agency to approve it for sale .
Having trouble focusing or keeping your eyes open .
The Aerio s level of standard equipment is more comparable with the Matrix and Vibe which cost a few thousand dollars more .
There are no brake marks because the vehicle has just drifted .
Two adults can be properly accommodated back there .
But will the Cayenne dilute the traditional sports car purity of the Porsche brand .
Still the Aerio AWD is a thrifty runabout offering 9.9 l 100 km 28 mpg in the city and 7.6 l 100 km 37 mpg on the highway .
This technique is used to disable fleeing vehicles thus avoiding a high speed chase and possible injury to innocent bystanders .
It s refined and pleasing to the eye .
But after a week of backpacking around the maritimes my high school chum Jonathon declared the big E the nicest ride he d ever had .
Information contained in articles and website reviews provided by CanadianDriver and other sources on this website are believed to be accurate and reliable when placed on this site but we cannot guarantee it is accurate or complete or current at all times .
Jim Kerr examines what s involved .
The steering feel seemed better than the 3.0 litre .
On the previous model the heavy third row bench seat had to be lifted out of the vehicle .
Chevrolet has been attempting to re establish its turf with a police modified version of the front drive Impala and even the Tahoe but the full size rear drive Crown Victoria is still the car most people expect to see in their rearview mirrors after zipping through a radar trap .
The H2 is nearly 3 inches taller but 5 inches narrower than the H1 .
A quattro version will be available in October 2006 .
Much of this can be credited to its fully independent McPherson strut suspension .
The Aviator can even out tow some full size luxury SUVs such as the Lexus LX470 which is rated for a maximum of 2948 kg 6 500 pounds .
In fact many of the changes to the 2006 Expedition were made to improve safety .
June 20 20062006 Saab 9 3The new Saab 9 3 shares GM s new global compact car platform with the Opel Vectra and other GM compact cars and has surrendered its hatchback bodystyle to the popular four door sedan bodystyle .
The rear seats are full size with plenty of legroom .
It can handle a 41.7 degree approach angle and 40 degree departure angle without dragging body parts .
Special Report The future of hydrogenExperts say hydrogen is the fuel of the future because current carbon based fuels like gasoline ethanol and methanol are causing global warming .
The first phase of the launch campaign began in early October and involved the use of an unbranded teaser site www.perfectlymade.com which made no reference to the identity of the new luxury vehicle .
Tumblehome is a design term that refers to the inward slant of a car s upper body .
Oil companies say it would be too expensive to replace it with something else .
While collision statistics peak at these times and there is general agreement that driver drowsiness is a major factor the numbers may not tell the whole story points out Constable Booth .
As well an optional AdvanceTrac system uses electronic braking to transfer torque side to side .
So if you re shopping for one of these cars and there are bargains to be found because prices haven t held up well the upgrades and refinements for 98 are important to note .
Product ReviewRain X De IcerAs a resident of Ottawa Paul Williams is perfectly located for testing Rain X De Icer a spray on ice remover for car windows .
April 16 20062006 MazdaSpeed ProtegéIn 2006 Mazda sold a limited production high performance version of the Protegé called the MP3 .
Certain names words titles phrases logos icons graphics or designs in the pages of this website may constitute trade names registered or unregistered trade marks or service marks of CanadianDriver or of third parties and used under license by CanadianDriver .
VW says this helps low end torque .
A few missing bits of expected equipment .
The resulting engine is extremely short allowing it to fit albeit snugly under the Passat s comely hood designed for nothing larger than a V6 .
As well the 2006 Expedition now has the largest brake rotors in its class 13 inches front 13.5 inches rear with calipers twice as stiff as before providing improved pedal feel reduced fade and shorter stopping distances .
The W8 has a flat crankshaft meaning the throws are 180 degrees apart i.e. all in the same plane rather than radially dispersed at 90 degrees as in most eights .
Most of the failures were because of excessive HC hydrocarbon emissions .
Headroom is 76 mm 3 in. greater. an optional second row 40 20 40 split bench seat combined with the standard third row seat offers seating for up to seven adult passengers. the Aviator s cargo capacity of 218 litres 77 cu. ft. is nearly identical to the segment leader which is based on a minivan platform .
Jim Kerr reports on the science of high revving engines .
Users of CanadianDriver may copy any information for their own personal use but may not republish or reproduce any such information in any manner including electronic reproduction without the prior written consent of CanadianDriver Communications Inc .
Many standard luxury features The Aviator s tastefully designed interior takes its design direction from the larger Lincoln Navigator and includes satin nickel trim American walnut burl wood premium leather upholstery and white light emitting diode LED instrument lighting .
Click images to enlargeClimbing gravel hillClimbing over 12 in. stepPlaying in the waterMogul run I was impressed with the H2 .
Stuff like sleeping on your friends floors while in the midst of gritty grimy road trips .
So would anybody that has difficulty climbing up into a vehicle .
Yeah well .
A couple of other features I liked about the Expedition roof air vents for second and third row passengers roof lighting and turn signal indicators on the outside mirrors .
Wheelbase2 480 mm 97.6 in Length4 350 mm 166.5 in Width1 720 mm 67.7 in .
Even without the Airmatic Dual control suspension optional on E320s standard on the more expensive E500 it has an uncanny ability to blend a luxurious ride with stable handling though the new E is bigger than the last it flows faster and more sure footedly between bends and its cabin is quieter and more comfortable to boot .
The stereo which has six speakers offers clear strong but not necessarily rich sound and I noticed the rear speakers in the cargo area can be muffled by luggage stored in the back .
If other police cars are not available an I2I smart system by Nexiq Corporation uses a cellular option and contacts the dispatch centre with a call for assistance .
The system listens understands and acts on the situation by wirelessly sharing emergency information interceptor location speed and heading .
The remnants of a laptop computer .
Profiler customization .
The other main cause is obstructive sleep apnea a condition affecting four per cent of adult men and two per cent of adult women .
Estimates of the proportion of crashes attributable to fatigue vary widely from three per cent in the U.S. according to an American Medical Association study in 1998 to 25 per cent in Australia according to a 1991 study in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Medicine .
Auto Tech The science of high revving enginesMuch of the progress in the development in higher revving engines comes from the racing world BMW’s latest Formula One ten cylinder engine is capable of an astounding 19 000 revolutions per minute rpm .
The Aviator s cargo space comes with no compromise to the class leading passenger roominess .
A five speed automatic transmission that incorporates a high stall speed torque converter and 3.73 1 axle ratio on all wheel drive models for strong performance feel is standard .
As well the rear deck and taillamps will strobe when the vehicle is parked and the light bar is activated .
Competitors There aren t many all wheel drive hatchbacks or wagons on the market in Canada the closest competitors would be the Subaru Impreza TS AWD wagon 21 995 the Toyota Matrix XR AWD 24 110 and the Pontiac Vibe AWD 26 150 .
April 17 2006 Click image to enlarge Ford Interceptor police car by Greg Wilson Since the demise of the big rear wheel drive Chevrolet Caprice the equally big Ford Crown Victoria has become North America s police car of choice .
The battle between the automotive manufacturers and the oil companies on the use of MMT is far from over .
It s free Available to residents of Southern and Eastern Ontario.. .
Jaguar uses the R designation on their supercharged high performance models .
The styling is uncluttered and luxurious with comfortable seating positions for front seat occupants .
The S Type R uses a 4.2 litre double overhead cam V8 engine with an intercooled Eaton supercharger to produce 400 horsepower .
The Touring package added dual exhausts boosting horsepower which eventually topped out at 240 and started at 200 a slightly smoother shifting transmission stiffer shocks and front springs thicker anti roll bars bigger tires unique aluminum wheels finer steering and a more aggressive rear axle ratio .
Currently this is the only engine available as is the FrontTrak front wheel drive system and the multitronic Continuously Variable Transmission CVT .
Jim Kerr looks at the basics of car and truck buying .
On GM s road course test track the 2006 Z06 is .5 seconds a lap faster than last year s car the 2006 Z06 was incredibly fast .
Special Report General Motors What s New for 2006General Motors is on the cusp of a new product revolution which will almost completely revamp their line up from top to bottom says Jim Kenzie .
Compared to the Focus ZX3 the SVT leans less exhibits less dive under braking hunkers down less under hard acceleration and responds more quickly to steering input .
With these two systems the Expedition can extract itself from muddy bogs and icy roads even if only one or two wheels have traction .
Surely this is Saab Speak for we ve eliminated the 9 3 s embarrassing torque steer tendencies .
Performance exhaust systemsFor anywhere between 700 and 1500 you can buy a performance exhaust system that adds between 10 to 30 horsepower to your vehicle .
After more than a week behind the wheel and a series of unlikely encounters with other road users interesting roadside attractions and somewhat seedy bargain establishments along the way what impresses most about the new E is its amazing adaptability to almost every circumstance I tried to throw at it .
Driving impressions Photo Laurance Yap .
Special Features Options Automatic climate control rear air suspension full size spare tire ABS 9000 lb. capacity built in front winch receiver .
In 1997 the importation of MMT into any province was made illegal .
Accident data recorder If the Interceptor concept is involved in a collision while on duty an Accident Data Recorder Blue Box records crash data including speed throttle and steering angle .
Buy a Passat W8 AND a Golf .
Because MMT is not manufactured in Canada this effectively banned its use .
In a way I wish Suzuki had raised the ride height a little more and put on larger 16 inch tires – that would make it more practical on back roads and unploughed side streets .
He was on his way from Halifax to Calgary heading for his dream job .
The radio and heater controls are simple although the buttons are relatively small by today s standards and just about everything is controlled by pushbuttons rather than rotary dials .
The front seats are heated and cooled .
To promote the new Range Rover Land Rover has launched a special web site www.rangerover.landrover.com .
A slight whine from the supercharger is accompanied by rapid acceleration at any speed .
Internally the UAW GM Paragon team are a group of dedicated volunteers with and without disabilities that assess GM and competitors products for their accessibility .
Sensuous lines balanced proportions and timeless looks are part of every Jaguar model but none embraces Jaguar s heritage as much as the S Type .
It s a traditional car then .
For 2006 we get just a hint of where that direction will lead with nine depending on how you count all new and a whole bunch more significantly upgraded entries he reports .
But they re not snobs though most don t want the attention and notoriety that a Lincoln Navigator would bring .
Based on the same platform it is actually shorter in wheelbase has less interior room offers only a 3.0 litre V6 as its top power plant and when comparably equipped i.e. loaded is about the same price .
Its world premiere is planned for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January .
We see very early on if someone cannot adjust their sleep pattern to the irregular lifestyle she says .
The system can be switched to competitive mode that disengages the traction control without giving up the other system benefits or it can be switched off completely for tire smoking performance .
In any event front and rear passengers in the Aerio Fastback have generous headroom ample kneeroom and adequate footroom under the front seats .
Nothing too serious or permanent but several weeks with my dominant arm in a cast does pose a couple challenges .