Friday, November 22, 2013
Richmond Review · Page 17
the richmond
REVIEW drivewayBC.ca |
Welcome to the driver’s seat
The S3 really is the sweet spot for drivers that want to have extra power but with a very compliant and comfortable ride. Zack Spencer
Visit the Audi A3 photo gallery at drivewayBC.ca
Audi’s road ahead paved with more than good intentions 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet/S3 MONACO: Over the next 12 months or so, consumers are going to be treated to an onslaught of new entries into the premium market. Not to worry, the next wave of German sedans and convertibles are of a more affordable nature. Recently Mercedes Benz introduced their all-new CLA 250 at an eye-popping price of just $34,000 for a sleek and sexy sedan. Next year we will see the introduction of BMW’s new 1-series and 2-Series sedans, coupes and convertibles. Audi has been ahead of the curve as they helped pioneer this entry-level segment with the original, the A3 sportback, sold in Canada for years. The all-new Audi A3 sedan will arrive in March of 2014 and the convertible and more powerful S3 sedan will arrive in the fall of 2014. This week I had a chance to drive both the convertible and S3 in Monte Carlo, a full year ahead of their introduction here. Audi is one of the fastest growing premium brands and a big part of that is the variety of cars they offer. Unfortunately, we will no longer get the sportback, but the fact we get the rest of the line of A3s is exciting for buyers. Looks The A3 is built off a shared platform with VW called MQB. This platform was a significant investment for the VW group as it is lighter, bigger and stronger than the last Golf platform and provides a sturdy basis for the A3 Cabrio and S3. The new Cabriolet is 60kg lighter than the outgoing European model, yet the wheelbase is longer and the interior room and trunk more ample. It could be argued that Audi is building some of the most attractive cars these days and these smaller products still convey the same sense of power and solidity that the bigger products portray. The S3 is especially forceful with a 15mm lower stance than the A3 sedan. The air intakes are bigger with more detail; the side mirrors are highlighted with brushed aluminum; and the rear of the car looks more masculine thanks to chunky exhaust tips. The
direct injection turbo with 220hp, matched to Cabriolet on the other hand is a more sophisticated approach thanks to the use of aluminum Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. A sixaround the front windshield and trim along the speed automatic is confirmed but the duel-clutch doors and rear quarter panel that make the car S-Tronic transmission might be sold as an option look bigger than it is. in this model. There will be no manual shift and no diesel, which is a shame, as I drove one of Inside Another strength of Audi is interior fit the European versions with this setup and it was and finish and these new products are covered superb. The S3 comes standard with a 300hp in first class materials. The dash has a cenversion of the same 2.0L engine and tre-mounted screen for accessing the duel clutch automatic, and of the easy-to-use computer controller. course, AWD. It’s not as powerful as Unlike the Mercedes CLA, this screen the 355hp Mercedes CLA 45 AMG, can fold into the dash to provide a but I feel it has more usable power. more polished look. Some think the The CLA gets peak horsepower at dash-mounted screens look like an afvery high revs, whereas this new terthought, but this one gets around S3 pulls from very low speeds up this problem. Space is good for such to higher speeds. I experienced this The A3 Cabriolet a compact car. The back seat of the carving the switchback mountain S3 sedan is actually big enough to fit and S3 confirm that roads just above Monaco. Power is adults up to six feet tall and the side good things do come not an issue; I would argue that the windows are much bigger than the S3 is a better everyday car comnew Mercedes CLA, providing a more in small packages pared to the more nervous feeling practical day-to-day sedan. The trunk Zack Spencer AMG competitor. The suspension is is large and the rear seats split and more compliant and the power is a fold for added cargo volume. This is perfect combination of drivability and enthusiasm. true with the Cabriolet but the space is constricted Audi claims a 0-100km/h run will take just 4.9 when the roof is down. The S3 comes with nicely seconds in the S3 and use a combined 6.9L/100km bolstered front seats in contrasting colours, plus (European fuel rating). an optional diamond pattern stitch can be ordered to take the sporty sedan to another level. I found Verdict It is going to be an exciting time to be the seating position very comfortable and outward in the market for an entry-level premium car over visibility is not a problem. The Cabriolet seats are the next year. The A3 Cabriolet and S3 confirm that fitted with a heater that showers the front passengood things do come in small packages. Pricing gers with warm air across their shoulders and neck has not been established for the Cabrio but it for top-down stints. The weather in Monte Carlo was hinted that this model would be roughly the was perfect for the convertible – the sun was same price as the S3, which has been confirmed shining off the Mediterranean, showcasing this car at $44,000, roughly $6,000 cheaper than the CLA of opulence at a more affordable price. AMG. The base A3 sedan will arrive in a few short months with a 1.8L turbo gasoline engine, an Drive The Canadian models have not fully been optional TDI diesel and the same 2.0L turbo found nailed down, as there is still a year to go until the Cabrio and S3 arrive. What is established is in the Cabrio. The S3 really is the sweet spot for the convertible will come with the all-new 2.0L drivers that want to have extra power but with a
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very compliant and comfortable ride. The combination of usable trunk space and back seat, simple yet elegant dash, power the driver can use at a lower price than the competition, is something potential buyer might want to wait a year to try first hand. The Lowdown Power: 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder with 220hp or 300hp. Fill-up: 6.9L/100km (combined) Sticker price: $44,000 for S3 zack.spencer@drivewaybc.ca
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Page 18 · Richmond Review
Friday, November 22, 2013
0 AWD 5 NO CHARGE
‡
($2,000 IN VALUE)
SANTA FE
NO CHARGE
AWD
AVAILABLE FEATURES INCLUDE: PANORAMIC SUNROOF • REARVIEW CAMERA • HEATED FRONT/REAR SEATS
HWY: 8.0L/100 KM CITY: 11.7L/100 KMʈ
2013
36 MONTHS
FINANCING FOR 36 MONTHS
2.0T LIMITED AWD Limited model shown
FINANCING FOR
%†
2013 CANADIAN UTILITY VEHICLE OF THE YEAR 2013
†
YEAR COMPREHENSIVE WARRANTY
ON SELECT MODELS
HWY: 8.4L/100 KM CITY: 11.0L/100 KMʈ
%
‡
($2,000 IN VALUE)
%†
SANTA FE XL PREMIUM AWD
7
FINANCING FOR 36 MONTHS
PASSENGER SEATING
NO CHARGE
AWD
AVAILABLE FEATURES INCLUDE: 3.3L GDI V6 ENGINE • POWER LIFTGATE • 5,000 LBS TOWING CAPACITY
Limited model shown
‡
($2,000 IN VALUE)
THE NEW 2014 TUCSON HAS ARRIVED HWY: 7.2L/100 KM CITY: 10.0L/100 KMʈ
2014
TUCSON
$
OWN IT FOR
WITH
BI-WEEKLY
FINANCING FOR 96 MONTHS
%†
STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: AIR CONDITIONING • EZ LANE CHANGE ASSIST • BLUETOOTH® HANDS FREE PHONE SYSTEM • FRONT HEATED SEATS
$
AND
$
DOWN
Limited model shown
5-year/100,000 km Comprehensive Limited Warranty†† 5-year/100,000 km Powertrain Warranty 5-year/100,000 km Emission Warranty
SELLING PRICE:
ʕ
TUCSON 2.0L GL FWD MT. DELIVERY & DESTINATION INCLUDED.
HyundaiCanada.com
TM The Hyundai names, logos, product names, feature names, images and slogans are trademarks owned by Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. †Finance offers available O.A.C. from Hyundai Financial Services based on a new 2013 Santa Fe 2.0T Limited AWD/2013 Santa Fe XL Premium AWD/2014 Tucson 2.0L GL FWD MT with an annual finance rate of 0%/0%1.9% for 36/36/96 months. Bi-weekly payments are $493/$448/$122. $0 down payment required. Cost of Borrowing is $0/$0/$1,831. Finance offers include Delivery and Destination of $1,760. Registration, insurance, PPSA, fees, levies, charges, license fees and all applicable taxes are excluded. Delivery and Destination charge includes freight, P.D.E., dealer admin fees and a full tank of gas. Financing example: 2014 Tucson 2.0L GL FWD MT for $23,259 at 1.9% per annum equals $122 bi-weekly for 96 months for a total obligation of $25,090. Cash price is $23,259. Cost of Borrowing is $1,831. Example price includes Delivery and Destination of $1,760. Registration, insurance, PPSA, fees, levies, charges, license fees and all applicable taxes are excluded. Delivery and Destination charge includes freight, P.D.E., dealer admin fees and a full tank of gas. ʈFuel consumption for 2013 Santa Fe 2.0T Limited AWD Auto (HWY 8.4L/100KM, City 11.0L/100KM), 2013 Santa Fe XL Premium AWD (HWY 8.0L/100KM, City 11.7L L/100KM), 2014 Tucson 2.0L GL FWD MT (HWY 7.2L/100KM, City 10.0L L/100KM) are based on Energuide. Actual fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and the addition of certain vehicle accessories. Fuel economy figures are used for comparison purposes only. ʕPrice of models shown: 2013 Santa Fe Sport 2.0T Limited AWD/2013 Santa Fe XL Limited AWD/2014 Tucson 2.4L Limited AWD are $40,259/$44,659/$35,359. Prices include Delivery and Destination charges of $1,760. Registration, insurance, PPSA, fees, levies, charges, license fees and all applicable taxes are excluded. ‡No Charge AWD Offer: Purchase or lease a new 2013 Santa Fe 2.0T Limited AWD or Santa Fe XL Premium AWD and you will be entitled to a $2,000 factory to dealer credit. The manufacturer’s estimated retail value for Santa Fe AWD is $2,000. Factory to dealer credit applies before taxes. Offer cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any other available credits. Offer is non-transferable and cannot be assigned. No vehicle trade-in required. No Charge AWD Offer not available on the 2013 Santa Fe Sport 2.4L FWD, 2.4L Premium FWD or 2.0T Premium FWD, or the 2013 Santa Fe XL FWD. †‡ʕOffers available for a limited time, and subject to change or cancellation without notice. See dealer for complete details. Dealer may sell for less. Inventory is limited, dealer order may be required. ††Hyundai’s Comprehensive Limited Warranty coverage covers most vehicle components against defects in workmanship under normal use and maintenance conditions.
OpenRoad Hyundai OpenRoad Hyundai Smallwood Place PAPER13171 TO INSERT DEALER TAG HERE 604-606-9033 13171 Smallwood Place, Richmond, Richmond, 604-606-9033 D#28516
Friday, November 22, 2013
Richmond Review · Page 19
driveway
Driving to cut Big Oil profits by Keith Morgan They should just call the 2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan the Gas Miser. The car is here for market testing right now but surely, it will see production next year and arrive in dealerships later in the year. And when it does sell your shares in Big Oil. It only sips gas by the spoonful; how else do you account for an easily achievable 4.1 L/100km combined city/highway fuel economy rating? Drive gently around town and you can purr along in all-electric mode for between 20 and 28 kms depending on road conditions. You won’t achieve that all at once, unless it’s the dead of night on a flat road, without any other traffic and green lights all the way. However, it is estimated that if you achieve that 20-
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The Accord plugin coaxed me into a little competition with myself every time out to achieve maximum fuel efficiency.
Keith Morgan
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plus all-electric ride during a 100 km journey, the power unit will consume electricity/gasoline at an equivalency of around 1.6 L/100km. In truth, it’s hard to put a real life meaning into that number but it is useful when comparing with other similarly equipped cars. But when you look at that number and the low gas/hy-
brid combined fuel performance, which enables you to journey 800 kilometres on one tank, it does plant the notion in one’s head that plug-in hybrids are the way to go for a while before we reach hydrogen fuel cell nirvana. The car is powered by Honda’s first two-motor hybrid system, and uses a new, delightfully named, Earth Dreams 2.0 litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, teamed with a powerful 124-kilowatt (kW) electric motor. Electric driving is supported by a 6.7 kilowatthour (kWh) lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery, and total system output is 196 horsepower. If your eyes glazed over at the obligatory statement of power unit specifications, join the club! Fuel economy interests me more. Like every other car with
Why women can negotiate a better car deal
by Alexandra Straub For many people, buying a car is a stressful process. It can be a lengthy one too. Most people have access to the Internet, so they’re doing their research beforehand, prior to even leaving their home and finding themselves on a dealer lot, or with glossy brochures in hand. They look at various vehicle reviews, flip through newspapers (like the one you’re reading now) and ask other car owner’s opinions. When they get to the dealership, that’s when it becomes real. You take the car for a test drive, fall in love with it or walk away from it. When you find “the one” then comes the time to sign on the dotted line. But before you seal the deal, it’s time to negotiate, unless you’re happy with the price given. For women, this can be an even more intimidating process. Getting through the dealer’s door is just the first hurdle they feel they have to overcome.
But for Vijay Jeyapalan, of Unhaggle (www.unhaggle. com), which helps Canadian car buyers get the best price on their new car by getting dealers to compete to offer the lowest price – he’d argue that women are better negotiators than men; an idea that challenges societal norms when it comes to car buying. Jeyapalan says, “Before stepping into the showroom or test-driving a vehicle, most women are recognized to have done their homework and prepurchase preparations. This advantage allows them to properly assess what they want upon arrival and ask the necessary questions to advance the car buying process.” His point centres on the notion that when you know less, you prepare more. With all the tools out there, it’s not as difficult or as time-consuming as it has been in the past. Sites dedicated to women and automobiles are there to assist, as well as female car reviews, lifestyle writers, mommy bloggers and more. He adds that women don’t mind shopping around, browsing at various products, taking the information and then contemplating it. They aren’t always in a hurry to buy right then and there.
“Many are convinced that the forceful tactics men use during negotiations are actually working against them in car buying situations. Men tend to focus on status and act upon superiority, which is a poor way of negotiating. “While the man says, ‘Take it or leave it,’ the woman might be more collaborative and willing to compromise—thus making them better negotiators. Listening is the key, not aggression and intimidation.” He goes on to say that, “Women understand that a common ground is usually the best platform for a fair negotiation. Empathy plays a large role in that regards. Being able to view the situation from another person’s perspective doesn’t necessarily create an advantage, but it does allow the person to understand why they aren’t getting the upper hand.” Statistics show that more women are making car purchases that ever before. Granted they might not be experts when they walk in the door, but they generally know what they want. “The image of a damsel lost in a showroom, if it ever actually existed, is no longer something salespeople will see.” alexandra.straub@ drivewaybc.ca
green aspirations that I have driven, it coaxed me into a little competition with myself every time out to achieve maximum fuel efficiency. It’s fun to select EV mode and pull away in the morning in silence, operating as a pure electric vehicle. Even in stop and go traffic, it works well, the regenerative braking keeps topping up the battery. As the speedo creeps
up the gas engine kicks in quietly and smoothly. If you select HV mode it operates as a conventional hybrid. I drove a production version of the Ford Fusion Energi a few months ago, which is similarly equipped and impresses equally with its infrequent need to visit the pump. The plug in Toyota Prius is another contender for the green dollar. The Ford is probably
2014 Honda Accord Plug-in Hybrid Sedan. the nearest equivalent and sells for around $35,000 so that will be the sticker price to beat. I would like to hear from
early adopters of the plug in hybrid technology about their experiences. keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca
Page 20 路 Richmond Review
Friday, November 22, 2013
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