Canada Auto Information
This highly capable tall wagon uses the same platform as the CTS sedan and comes in either rear- or all-wheel drive. The SRX is powered by either a 3.6-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8, both of which are smooth and powerful. The five-speed automatic is very slick and has a manual-shift capability. Like the CTS, [...]
The big, bulky Escalade is based on the Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon platform. All models are now powered by the 6.0-liter V8 engine. The interior is a dichotomy of luxurious plushness and cheap materials. A removable split third-row seat brings passenger capacity to eight, but it’s uncomfortable in the standard model. Second-row bucket seats are standard, [...]
BMW’s 5 Series wagon is available only as the all-wheel-drive 530xi, powered by a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. It has a version of the iDrive driver interaction system, which we found tedious to use. Handling is agile and secure, and the ride is comfortable and quiet. The six-speed automatic and 3.0-liter engine are smooth and give [...]
Even as basic transportation, the Daewoo-produced Aveo hatchback is versatile, but falls short overall. Although an economy car, fuel efficiency is unimpressive. The 1.6-liter engine delivers just adequate performance. Handling lacks agility and confidence, with dart, imprecise steering and lots of body lean. The ride is relatively comfortable, however. Drivers sit fairly high with a [...]
The Avalanche is a full-sized, crew-cab pickup with a unified bed and cab. An innovative “midgate” at the back of the cab can be folded down and the rear glass removed to extend the cargo bed into the rear of the cabin. Along with a standard three-piece removable bed cover, this gives the Avalanche flexibility [...]
Pro: Well laid out dashboard and controls. Fairly comfortable but very firm front seats. GLS models have multiple front seat adjustments and a well appointed interior. Large trunk for this size of car. Versatile hatchback. Con: Tall drivers would probably wish for more legroom and a seat height adjustment (standard on the GLS). Cramped rear [...]
RATING: Not recommended. An Excel in sporty attire. GENERAL COMMENTS: The Scoupe is Hyundai’s first sporty coupe’ based on the very un-sporty Excel. This small sport coupe’ made its debut last year with a number of positive features, like sleek Italian styling by Giugiaro, a 1.5L overhead-cam engine that produces 81 hp, a back seat [...]
