Long-term update #1: Audi A3 Sportback ============================= After spending 2 months with the long-term A3 Sportback, it is very evident that this is more than an entry-level model into this premium brand. The interior fit-and-finish and build quality are stout and vault-solid, without any rattles or squeaks. The use of classy materials are up to [...]
Short review of 2006 Audi S4 sedan ========================== Price as tested: CDN$75480 The biggest highlight of 2006 Audi S4 with 6-speed stick is the change from front-bias 50/50 to rear-bias 40/60 split Torsen Quattro all-wheel drive. In the past, one have to drive really hard into a corner before encounter oversteer characteristics. And that is [...]
Vehicle: 2006 Toyota Yaris 5-door RS with Pkg B Price as tested: CDN$18815 Performance: Under Yaris’s hood lies an exceptional 1.5L DOHC 16-valver 4-cylinder with variable valve timing and intelligence control. This little mill is good for 106 hp and 103 lb/ft of torque. The response is brisk and responsive considered the engine size. Throttle [...]
Vehicle: 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD with Premium and Safety Pkgs Price as tested: CDN$43564 Performance: The Escape Hybrid uses a 2.3L 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle system. The gasser engine provides 133 hp while the battery generates 94hp, a total of 227 horsepower. Thanks to the excellent torque generates by the battery, 125 lb/ft of torque [...]
Vehicle: 2006 BMW 325Xi Touring with 6-speed Steptronic, Sport and Premium Pkgs Price as tested: CDN$54700 Performance: Under 3-Series Touring’s bonnet lies BMW’s legendary straight 6 technology. A detuned 3.0L straight 6 that is good for 215 ponies and 185 lb/ft of torque. While BMW straight 6′s entertaining engine note and refinment remain intact, the [...]
Vehicle: 2006 Ford Fusion SE V6 with Enhanced Safety Pkg Price as tested: CDN$28044 Handling: Fusion’s driving dynamics is a pleasant surprise given its based on the award-winning Mazda6 platform. The fundamental of Fusion’s chassis is simply excellent because its solid-as-a-rock without any rattles and cracks that were so common on previous Ford platforms. Its [...]