New-Vehicle Preview

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/11/2003 (8251 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TL (NEW FOR 2004!)

Impressions: Acura is looking to duplicate BMW’s success in reeling in drivers who want a sedan that reflects their sporting nature and respects their intelligence and sensibilities as well-heeled buyers. Keep it clean. Make it fast, functional, sophisticated and a feast for the eyes. You know, the kind of car that says, ‘I can afford to spend more, but this is the car I really want.’ Enter the dashing and ultra-modern-looking 2004 TL with its 270-horsepower 3.2-litre SOHC V6. Similar in style to the striking new-for-’04 TSX sedan, the TL — minus its normal 3.2 TL designation — is all new and still offers a ton of storage space (despite being 15-centimetres shorter than the ’03 model) and a true level of performance and precision. Acura pulls no punches: the BMW 5 Series is the inspiration behind the TL. Similar engine displacement and transmission choices greet buyers (six-speed manual as part of the ‘Dynamic’ package or five-speed automatic with manual override), as does Acura’s one-stop approach to standard features. Among its range of gee-whiz gear is a new six-channel premium DVD-audio system, complete with digital surround sound. Put the car in park and you can even watch DVD movies on the optional navigation screen. Inside, materials have been upgraded with leather and real aluminum slathered throughout. Mechanically, the TL features a drive-by-wire throttle that eliminates the ‘hard’ connection between the gas pedal and the engine. You also receive stability control, dual-zone climate control, four-wheel-disc brakes (Brembo brand as part of the Dynamic package if you order the six-speed) with anti-lock, 17-inch wheels, side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags to protect your head.

Base price: $41,800

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.2-litre SOHC V6 (270)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic; six-speed manual (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.0/7.4 (2003)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking (opt.)

Weight (kg): 3,480

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: acura.ca

TSX (New for 2004!)

Impressions: It’s a war of the worlds with Acura in one corner and all of Europe in the other. Although it’s not a clear-cut victor, the new TSX sedan is definitely in the thick of the hunt as an alternative to entry-level BMWs, Audis and Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The new offering from Honda’s upscale division provides solid performance, great looks, excellent build quality and a fair sticker price considering everything you get. The TSX’s taut lines, low greenhouse and a hiked-up rear deck, combined with wheel-arch-filling 17-inch rubber, is the visual essence of a true European sport sedan . . . even if it is from Japan. The image is backed up by a standard double-wishbone front and rear suspension setup and stability and traction control connected to a drive-by-wire throttle (there’s no physical link between the pedal and the engine). It also hits the mark with an inviting perforated-leather-coated interior and contrasting wood tone and silver accents, a theme that actually begins on the exterior door handles. The front seats are heated, while the driver is afforded eight-way power control of his or her throne. Pop open the hood and you’re greeted by a 200-horsepower 2.4-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine and your choice of a six-speed manual transmission or optional-at-no-cost five-speed automatic that’s set up for clutchless manual shifting. Worthy of the consideration is the fact that — compared to its intended competition — every TSX is packed to the roof with features such as anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes, dual-zone air conditioning with filtration, power sunroof, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, 360-watt eight-speaker audio system with CD changer, steering-wheel-mounted accessory controls, keyless remote entry, a built-in garage-door opener and high-intensity-discharge headlights. Dealers can provide extras such as a DVD-based rear entertainment system, aero body kit, MP3 player plus a wider variety of multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Base price: $35,800

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.4-litre DOHC I4 (200)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Six-speed manual; five-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 10.7/8.1 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control

Weight (kg): 1,470

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: acura.ca

AUDI

A8 L (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The all-wheel-drive A8 isn’t the most popular Audi that was ever built, but it has always led the lineup as a rolling showcase of the company’s technological ability. There’s a lot more of that lurking under the aluminum body of the completely redesigned best-of-the-best A8 L (as in long wheelbase, which is the only way you can get an A8 this year) for 2004. Beginning with an all-aluminum space frame (a cage that supports the bolt-on body panels) that’s 30-per-cent lighter and has 60-per-cent more structural rigidity than that of the outgoing model, Audi basically pours in absolutely everything it has learned since the last A8 was unveiled in the mid-1990s, which, as it turns out, is considerable. For example, the suspension is completely pneumatic. That means there are no conventional springs of any kind. A computer constantly adapts the system to changes in the road. You can even raise the A8 L to get through deep snow. Driver-operated systems — everything from the sound system to the suspension — are controlled through a console-mounted turn-and-push selector knob and an 18-centimetre (seven-inch) screen. Under the hood is the familiar (if you’re into Audis, that is) five-valve-per-cylinder 4.2-litre V8, although it now funnels 330 horsepower (up 20) through the six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual control en route to the standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system. To say the A8 L has plenty of power amenities and a leather interior is stating the obvious and pales in comparison to what this larger-in-every-dimension automobile really has to offer. If you want state-of-the-art, look no further.

Base price: $98,300

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC V8 (330)

Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 13.5/8.9

Safety: Front airbags; front knee airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking

Weight (kg): 2,000

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: www.audicanada.ca

BMW

5 SERIES (New for 2004!)

Impressions: With the redesign of many BMW models fully under way, the most recent designation to go under the knife is the 5 Series sedan. Some might consider this a risky proposition considering the overwhelming popularity of the previous model, but BMW has proceeded, unfazed. The new look closely matches the larger, pricier and somewhat controversial 7 Series luxury cruiser, with subtle creases along its flanks and a truncated tail. It also shares the 7’s futuristic iDrive, a single-knob console-mounted controller that operates a number of systems such as climate control, entertainment, telephone and navigation. iDrive is just the beginning. You get — or can add — headlights that pivot with the vehicle in a turn, active steering, which varies the steering ratio depending on speed and road conditions and works in tandem with stability control to help keep the car pointed in the right direction. Another important safety feature is adaptive brake lights that increase the area lit up as the brakes are more forcefully applied. BMW is also following General Motors’ lead with an optional head-up display that projects key driver info onto the windshield. Initially, two 5 Series sedan models will be available (a restyled 5 Series wagon should be along in about a year or so), the 530i with its 225-horsepower 3.0-litre DOHC inline six-cylinder engine and the 545i, which runs with a 4.4-litre DOHC V8 that shovels out 325 horses. Although these powerplants essentially carry over, an all-new six-speed manual transmission comes with both. A shift-it-yourself (Steptronic) six-speed automatic is also available (a no-cost option on the 545i). By December, a clutchless six-speed sequential manual will be available.

Base price: $66,500 (535i); $77,700 (545i)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.0-litre DOHC I6 (225)

Optional engine (hp): 4.4-litre DOHC V8 (325)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmissions: Six-speed manual; six-speed automatic (opt.); six-speed sequential manual (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.3/7.3 (530i, MT, 2003)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking (opt).

Weight (kg): 1,570

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: bmw.ca

X3 (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The luxury-ute segment is about to become even more crowded with the impending (early ’04) launch of the all-new X3. Based on the highly successful 3 Series sedans, coupes and wagons, this kid brother to the X5 arrives with a tall stance, five-passenger seating and an impressive list of standard safety features. It also has xDrive, the company’s latest all-wheel-drive setup that it says reacts much faster to road conditions and driver input than earlier AWD systems, providing nearly infinite front/rear power distribution, usually before any of the driving wheels lose their grip. The wheelbase is only 2.5 centimetres less than that of the X5 while the X3 is about four-cm shorter in overall height. In the drivetrain department, both 3 Series’ six-cylinder engines (a 184-horsepower 2.5, or a 225-horse 3.0) are employed, depending on the model. The 3.0 happens to be the X5’s base motor. Both powerplants are fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, while a five-speed automatic is optional. As with the X5, there are numerous storage bins and receptacles for stashing your stuff, an optional navigation system with a colour monitor for keeping you heading in the right direction, and standard stability control. But if the worst should happen, front, side and head-curtain airbags will help keep you from harm.

Base price: $45,000 (est.)

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 2.5-litre DOHC I6 (184)

Optional engine (hp): 3.0-litre DOHC I6 (225)

Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Six-speed manual; five-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; rear side airbags; head-curtain airbags; ABS; stability control; tire-pressure monitoring; GPS tracking (opt.)

Weight (kg): N/A

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: bmw.ca

BUICK

RAINIER (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The luxury-class Buick Rainier takes up where the outgoing Oldsmobile Bravada leaves off, joining General Motors’ collection of light-duty sport-utility vehicles that includes the Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy and Isuzu Ascender. While the others come in long-wheelbase form, the Rainier is only available in a single short-wheelbase five-passenger model. Like the others, Rainier can be had with the base 275-horsepower 4.2-litre inline six-cylinder engine. Unlike the others, it’s the only short-wheelbase version of the bunch that can be had with the extra cost 290-horse 5.3-litre V8. Standard all-wheel drive, electronically controlled rear air suspension, premium Bilstein shocks, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and 17-inch Michelin tires mounted on chrome alloy wheels help keep the Rainier securely planted. Buick’s distinctive oval grille with plenty of toothy vertical bars is easy to spot heading toward you, but the side or rear view blurs with the other members of the family. However, there is no mistaking the Rainier for anything but a luxo-class Buick once you clamber aboard. The seats are covered with perforated leather and the front buckets have a feature that ‘remembers’ specific settings. The climate control is of the dual-zone variety. There are also separate audio controls for rear-seat riders and a driver-information centre that monitors a multitude of vehicle functions. For those hopelessly lost, OnStar, GM’s GPS-based monitoring system is there to provide help. Among the few options are heated front seats, upgraded Bose sound system and a DVD player with an 18-centimetre screen and wireless remote control.

Base price: $50,200

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC inline six-cylinder (275)

Optional engine (hp): 5.3-litre OHV V8 (290)

Layout: Front engine, all-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 15.5/10.5

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS; GPS tracking (opt.)

Weight (kg): 2,300 (est.)

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

CADILLAC

SRX (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The CTS four-door uses it. The new STS sedan will be based on it. And the new SRX sport-utility vehicle personifies it. Yes, Cadillac is taking its new Sigma platform seriously. Viewed as a direct competitor to the Lincoln Aviator as well as a slew of other Japanese/European luxury rigs, the SRX provides optional seating for up to seven riders, your choice of a 260-horsepower 3.6-litre DOHC V6 or a 320-horsepower 4.6-litre Northstar V8, and rear- or all-wheel drive. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard. Since the SRX is as new as its target audience (hip, urban professionals), Cadillac has gone out of its way to make a good first impression. This edgy-looking on-/off-roader is filled with the best from Caddy’s current parts-bin while at the same time offering a few new tricks. Magnetic Ride Control, which essentially uses electric current and liquid metal to provide constant and variable shock dampening, is just one example. The optional UltraView five-plus-foot-long glass roof with power retractable shade is another. While you would expect the SRX’s interior to be slathered with leather and wood, you might not expect the suspension to be made of lightweight aluminum, which makes it more responsive. Tying it all together are four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, stability control and speed-sensitive variable-effort steering. With chiseled good looks that follow the new-age Cadillac theme, there’ll be no mistaking the SRX as anything other than something special. And that’s the point.

Base price: $53,300; $69,000 (V8)

Type: Four-door luxury sport-utility vehicle

Base engine (hp): 3.6-litre DOHC V6 (260)

Optional engine (hp): 4.6-litre DOHC V8 (320)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-/all-wheel drive

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 14.8/9.7 (V6, AWD)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking

Weight (kg): 1,890

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

XLR (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Cadillac has spent the last few years reinventing itself with new models and new style that make it a hip and trendy place to park your hard-earned dentist/doctor/lawyer bucks. When was the last time a Cadillac really turned heads? Didn’t it used to be the place to get the newest whiz-bang gear that you just couldn’t find anywhere else? Welcome back. As its signature piece, the two-seat XLR roadster — which will form the basis of the next-generation Corvette — incorporates the first use of the famed Northstar DOHC V8 powerplant in a rear-drive platform. Just like the rest of its Cadillac brethren, the XLR’s design is edgy, to the point of being automotive origami, and nothing short of incredible. Make no mistake, the XLR is a player. With a folding metal top, 320 horsepower, a five-speed automatic transmission mounted behind the cockpit and a $111,000 price tag, the XLR stares straight into the headlights of a Mercedes-Benz SL500 roadster. Not just a fashion statement, the XLR is a technological tour de force that pushes the envelope of GM’s design ability. It’s uniquely Cadillac. Magnetic ride control, which automatically adjusts shock dampening with electric current and what amounts to liquid metal, is at the forefront with other features such as a retractable magnesium/aluminum/composite roof, head-up display (that projects pertinent data on the windshield) and variable-valve timing ride shotgun. Most impressive is that Cadillac has managed to keep the weight down, which yields quick acceleration and road-holding of 0.9 g (the 18-inch wheels and tires no doubt help out), close to that of a Corvette. If there was ever a time to think that Cadillac was on top of its game, it’s now.

Base price: $111,000

Type: Two-door coupe/roadster

Base engine (hp): 4.6-litre DOHC V8 (320)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 14.2/8.7

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; ABS; traction control

Weight (kg): 1,650

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

CHEV CARS/MINIVAN

AVEO (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Chevrolet is once again the place to look for thrifty, inexpensive wheels. Since the Metro was dropped a few years ago, GM’s recent acquisition of Daewoo has ensured an instant supply of small cars to fill the void. Due out in early 2004, the Aveo is what Chevy calls a ‘no-compromise’ approach to compact commuters. In simple terms, it’s not bare-bones. Available as a four-sedan or hatchback, the Italian-designed (Giorgetto Giugiaro’s renowned Italdesign studios gets the credit) runabout will be available in base or LS trim. You get standard tilt steering, fully adjustable front seats and 60/40 split folding rear bench with integral headrests on the sedan and separated headrests on the hatchback. The rear seat of the four-door folds flat to provide more cargo room, while the rear seat of the hatchback also flips forward, yielding a substantial cargo area. Base models are just that (with the exception of dual airbags and front disc brakes), while the LS offers standard CD/MP3 player, air conditioning, power door locks and windows, remote keyless entry and heated outside mirrors. An appearance package includes fog lamps, mudguards and 14-inch alloy wheels. A sliding electric sunroof and a six-speaker premium sound system are also available on LS. Powering all Aveos is a 105-horse 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder supported by a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional.

Base price: $14,400

Type: Four-door sedan/hatchback

Base engine (hp): 1.6-litre DOHC I4 (105)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 8.8/6.1 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,070

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

MALIBU (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Positioned as Chevrolet’s all-things-to-all-families four-door sedan, the Malibu offers much of the same for 2004, but with greater strength, variety and more convenience and power choices. General Motors has decided to use the Malibu and the Malibu Maxx wagon for the North American debut of its new worldwide, German-based Epsilon platform . . . Epsi-what? All you really need to know is that it’s a stiffer, firmer and better-handling platform designed to give the Malibu a little Europeon flair. With an overall package that adapts to needs that can change from day to day, the new Malibu has a lot going for it. There’s a split-folding rear seat and fold-flat front passenger seat that, when combined, allow a wide variety of cargo to be transported. Chevy has also used what it terms as a “personalized-fit package,” allowing drivers of all sizes to tailor the position of the seat, steering wheel and pedals to their comfort. The combination of a power driver’s seat with a height adjuster, a tilt steering wheel and power adjustable pedals are available on all models. Another first is a remote starter than can fire the engine from 60 metres away. Malibu is available in three levels (standard, LS and LT) with two engine choices. Base models deliver 145 horsepower from a fuel-efficient 2.2-litre, dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine (called the Ecotec), while the LS and LT models get a 200-horsepower, 3.5-litre, overhead-valve V6 (a revised version of the GM’s 3.4). All models come with a four-speed automatic transmission. In December, GM will come to market with the Malibu Maxx wagon, which will be slightly shorter than the sedan but have a 15-centimetre longer wheelbase. The versatile machine will arrive with a versatile interior, including rear seats that will slide forward, a fixed rear skylight and a rear cargo tray that can double as a picnic table.

Base price: $23,100

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.2-litre DOHC I4 (145)

Optional engine (hp): 3.5-litre OHV V6 (200)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 9.9/6.6 (2.2)

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,440

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

OPTRA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: With the help of Korean Daewoo, which General Motors now owns, Chevrolet comes to bat for 2004 with a trio a new models that cover off the entry- and mid-level markets. Base priced at about the same as a Cavalier, the Canadian-only four-door Optra (the middle of the three new models) is similar to the U.S.-only Suzuki Forenza. Why so close in price to the Cavalier? We suspect that the Cavalier’s replacement, called the Cobalt, will move up a notch to cover the gap between it and the Malibu. The front-drive Optra arrives with a slim base-features list that includes standard front power windows (the rears roll up with a crank), tilt steering, five-speed manual transmission (a four-speed automatic is optional), power mirrors/locks, four-speaker audio system with CD player, four-wheel disc brakes and a 119-horsepower 2.0-litre DOHC four-cylinder. Up-level LS models add the rest of the goodies, including air conditioning, rear power windows and heated outside mirrors. If a few optional extras, including anti-lock brakes don’t meet your feature-creature requirements, the next stop is the new Epica.

Base price: $17,100

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.0-litre DOHC I4 (119)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,250

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

EPICA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Bolted together by GM-owned Daewoo (yes, the Korean automaker that closed shop here a couple of years ago), the front-drive Epica sedan is similar in size to a Toyota Camry/Honda Accord and will likely compete in the lower end (for now) of that category. Two models — LS and LT — provide variety, however, both receive the same 155-horsepower 2.5-litre inline six-cylinder engine (that’s right, not a V6) backed by a four-speed automatic transmission. Aside from providing a healthy dose of torque, the powertrain offers decent fuel economy (the equivalent of 36 miles per Imperial gallon on the highway). The base LS comes with usual assortment of power features as well as air conditioning and a CD-equipped six-speaker stereo. The LT receives a CD changer, leather interior and 16-inch alloy wheels. Anti-lock brakes are optional. Base priced slightly higher than an ’04 Malibu a bit less than a full-sized Impala, the Epica shares its basic structure (and most of the outer sheetmetal) as well as the engine with the new-for-’04 Suzuki Verona.

Base price: $25,500

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.5-litre DOHC I6 (155)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.9/7.9

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,530

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

CHEVY SUV/VANS

COLORADO (New for 2004!)

Impressions: If a Silverado is too big and an S10 is too small, what do you do? Absolutely nothing . . . until the mid-size Chevrolet Colorado arrives. Closely related to GMC’s forthcoming Canyon, the Colorado takes the place of the smaller S10 for 2004. In terms of size, the interior of the Colorado has similar leg and headroom to a full-size Silverado, while hip and shoulder room runs about 20-centimetres less (but about six-cm more than in an S10). Colorado is available in a wide variety of cab styles (regular, extended and crew), box sizes (short and long), drive systems (rear or 4×4) and suspension setups (heavy-duty and off-road). Extended-cab models feature two small doors hinged at the rear, while crew-cab versions offer four full-size doors. The bigger truck also receives bigger engines. The starting point is a 175-horsepower 2.8-litre DOHC four-cylinder. Optional is a 220-horsepower 3.5-litre DOHC inline five-cylinder with 225 lb.-ft. of torque on tap. Both are derived from the 275-horse 4.2-litre straight-six that moves GM’s mid-sized sport-utility vehicles. Connected to either engine is a choice of a newly designed five-speed manual transmission, or optional four-speed automatic that was originally built for the Silverado. Also optional is Chevy’s shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system.

Base price: TBA

Type: Four-door compact pickup

Base engine (hp): 2.8-litre DOHC I4 (175)

Optional engine (hp): 3.5-litre DOHC I5 (220)

Layout: Front-engine, rear- /four-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 13.1/8.7 (3.5, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS

Weight (kg): 1,520

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

SSR (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The most amazing part about the retro radical SSR street-truck-rod is that it’s actually going into production. Image, of course, is the culprit. The two-seat SSR’s mission is to demonstrate what a cool and innovative organization GM really is, or wants to become. Chevrolet has blended one part nostalgia (the ’47-’53 pickup was the inspiration) with two parts high-tech content to come up with what can best be described as a convertible hot-rod pickup. Behind the trucklet’s heritage styling is a host of intriguing gizmos, the most sensational being a fully retractable power-operated hardtop. In about 25 seconds, the two-piece roof folds behind the seats. A removable hard tonneau covers a modest 3.9×4.2-foot box best used for luggage, groceries or golf cubs. The body sits on an ultra-stiff ladder-frame chassis adapted from the Chevy TrailBlazer sport-ute. Also borrowed are its independent coil-spring suspension and four-wheel-disc brakes. Putting the power to the SSR’s 10-inch-wide rear Goodyear tires mounted to 20-inch rims (the eight-inch-wide front wheels come with 19-inch rubber) is a 300-horsepower 5.3-litre OHV V8. With a hefty 2,160 kilograms to lug around, the SSR is no sprinter and hits 100 km-h in about 7.5 seconds. A limited-slip rear differential with traction control and a floor-shifted four-speed automatic transmission complete the powertrain. All SSRs include air conditioning, cruise control, CD stereo, power seats, steering-wheel audio controls, power windows and door locks, fog lamps and a two-piece cargo liner. In addition to factory-installed options such as a Bose premium sound system, heated seats and silver-coloured alloy wheels, there will also be a number of SSR accessories available at the dealer level. Among this list will be running boards, custom floor mats and a towing package.

Base price: $71,000

Type: Two-door specialty vehicle/truck

Base engine (hp): 5.3-litre OHV V8 (300)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS; traction control

Weight (kg): 2,160

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

CHRYSLER

CROSSFIRE (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Chrysler says that the new rear-drive Crossfire is what you get when the American Route 66 meets the German Autobahn. Moreover, this sporty-looking-yet-elegant two-seater is the first look at what the union between Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz can produce. In fact, 40 per cent of the Crossfire comes from its Teutonic cousin, the two-seat Mercedes SLK roadster: a 215-horsepower 3.2-litre three-valve-per-cylinder V6; your choice of a six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic; and four wheel-disc brakes. As well, the upper and lower control arms in the front suspension and multiple links in the rear are swapped into the Crossfire, hot-rod style. Built in Germany, the Crossfire’s cutting-edge shape envelops 19-inch rear wheels; the fronts are 18s. Out back is a retractable spoiler that springs into action once the vehicle reaches about 100 km-h. Interestingly, Chrysler says that the Crossfire’s body is twice as stiff as that of a Porsche Boxster, which leads to incredible cornering ability: a reported 1.1 g. From a design standpoint, the distinctive exterior centre spine also appears on the console, shifter and instrument panel. Seats are trimmed in two-tone leather with the Chrysler wing embossed in both head rests. Metallic accents are found on the doors, steering wheel, and instrument cluster. As a final touch, the ignition switch is located on the instrument panel instead of the steering column. Although just out, Chrysler is already planning for more power and a convertible version.

Base price: $49,100

Type: Two-door coupe

Base engine (hp): 3.2-litre SOHC V6 (215)

Optional engine: (None)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmission: Six-speed manual; four-speed automatic with AutoStick function

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS; stability control; traction control; tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 1,390

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

PACIFICA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The Pacifica is a combination of power, prestige and packaging in a more traditional car-like platform. Although there’s space for six passengers, the three-row (leather covered, by the way) seating arrangement is yet another trend-setting layout. The first two rows, accessible through four generously sized doors, are of the bucket-seat variety, while the third-row is a 50/50 split bench. Although not uncommon in minivans and big sport-utility vehicles, keep in mind that the Pacifica is a car. A remotely operated power rear liftgate (first offered on Chrysler minivans a few years ago) adds to Pacifica’s people-friendly demeanor. Under the hood is a 250-horsepower 3.5-litre SOHC V6 that’s matched to a four-speed automatic transmission with shift-for-yourself AutoStick. Base models come in front-wheel drive and offer traction control. For more go-anywhere capability, an on-demand all-wheel-drive option can be specified. All models are well stocked with dual-zone climate control, heated front-row seats, tire-pressure monitoring system, anti-lock brakes, head-curtain airbags, power-adjustable pedals, 17-inch wheels, cruise control and a CD player. Options include an in-dash navigation system, in-dash CD/DVD changer, digital surround sound and second-row heated seats.

Base price: $41,000

Type: Four-door wagon

Base engine (hp): 3.5-litre SOHC V6 (250)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front- /all-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic with AutoStick function

L/100 km (city/hwy): 14.2/9.8

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 2,120

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

ABS; traction control (std. on FWD models); tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 1,950

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

DURANGO (New for 2004!)

Impressions: With the task of providing off-road machinery largely left to the Jeep line of dedicated sport utes, the Dodge Durango has done its own thing since it arrived on the scene for the 1998 model year. For 2004, Dodge’s lone sport-utility vehicle sheds its mid-size Dakota shell and adopts the current full-size truck platform as well as the new ‘Hemi’ Magnum 5.7 engine as an option. As big as the old Durango was, the replacement is 18-centimetres longer, five-cm wider and seven-cm taller. In fact, Dodge claims the full-size Durango offers more cargo room than a Chevy Tahoe (but not a Suburban) or a Ford Expedition. Durango loses its 5.9-litre V8 as the top engine and adopts the new 5.7. Dodge reports a 10-per-cent increase in fuel economy in spite of 100 more horsepower (345) than the 5.9. A 230-horsepower 4.7-litre SOHC V8 is also available. Both are connected to five-speed automatic transmissions. Model designations for the new Dodge have been revised to SLT, SLT Plus and Limited. All new from top to bottom — from its hydroformed frame rails (bent using high-pressure fluid and a jig) and standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, to its white-faced gauges and ‘afterburner’-style headlights — Durango is available with side-curtain airbags, sunroof, adjustable foot pedals, standard seating for seven riders and your choice of all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with a low range. Standard is its 17-inch wheels, increased leg, hip and shoulder room . . . and its ability to carry a four-foot-wide piece of plywood.

Base price: $40,000 (est.)

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 4.7-litre SOHC V6 (230)

Optional engine (hp): 5.7-litre SOHC V8 (345)

Layout: Front-engine, four-/ all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS; traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 2,120

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

SX 2.0/SRT-4

Impressions: Sport-compact drivers had better check their rear-view mirrors for a E-G-D-O-D logo. That’s because Chrysler’s performance division is fending off the onslaught of import small-car invaders with its SRT-4, that, for 2004, finally finds its way to Canada. With 230 horsepower and 250 lb-ft. of torque, it’s the quickest thing in the Dodge lineup . . . next to a Viper, that is. (Remember, all this power — nearly a much as an Intrepid — comes in a light 1,315-kilogram package.) Squarely aimed at the Civic/RSX/Celica/Tiburon (et al) and tuner aftermarket crowd, the $27,800 SRT-4 leads a revival of the 1960s factory horsepower wars (on a miniature scale, anyway) with its pumped up 2.4-litre DOHC four-cylinder. As well, this modern-day warrior offers a beefed up suspension and five-speed manual transmission channeling the power to a limited-slip differential. It also comes with four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, functional hood scoop and 17-inch wheels with sticky 50-series rubber. Think of it as buying a car with all the trick aftermarket stuff already included and amortized over the duration of your finance term. The interior receives Viper-inspired sport seats, metal trim bits and carbon-fibre-textured (woven look) steering wheel and shifter boot. Mere mortal Neons run the gamut from functional commuter (SE and Sport) to sporty performer (R/T) equipped with 2.0-litre engines.

Base price: $17,900; $27,800 (SRT-4)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.0-litre SOHC I4 (132)

Optional engines (hp): 2.0-litre SOHC I4 (150, R/T); 2.4-litre DOHC I4, turbocharged (230, SRT-4)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 8.7/7.1 (2.0, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS (opt); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,170

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

SPRINTER (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Just as significant as the arrival of the new Sprinter is the demise of the Ram van. It’s the first absence of a traditional full-size van from the Dodge lineup since, well, the beginning of time. Don’t be too quick to mourn: the Sprinter makes perfect sense in this day and age. Since the full-size van market was overrun by minivans (of Chrysler’s own doing by the way) beginning in ’84, sales have been increasingly aimed at the commercial market: trades people; tour operators; delivery companies; and the RV conversion business. So, why not start from the frame rails and build exactly what they need . . . Actually, the Sprinter has been available in Europe since 1995 and comes to North America and Dodge as a product of the Daimler-Chrysler union. The Sprinter just happens to be the most successful commercial vehicle in Daimler’s European stable. So what is it? Tall, square like an ice-cream truck and sporting a Dodge snout, the Sprinter is dimensionally close (in terms of length and width) to a Ram van, although order-form simplicity — and operational economy — is definitely the order of the day. You won’t burn up the quarter mile with the standard (and only) 154-horsepower 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel, but it should have plenty of torque (243 lb.-ft. at 1,600-2,400 r.p.m.) to move whatever you can stuff inside. Essentially made to order, the Sprinter (available in three different wheelbase lengths and two roof heights) is meant to be a starting point for just about anything (the biggest model offers just about 18 cubic metres (500 cubic feet) of storage): it’s up to you. Standard features include a five-speed automatic transmission, rack-and-pinion steering, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and stability control.

Base price: $41,100

Type: Commercial van

Base engine (hp): 2.7-litre DOHC inline five-cylinder turbo-diesel (154)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags, ABS; stability control

Weight (kg): N/A

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: daimlerchrysler.ca

FORD CARS/MINIVANS

FREESTAR (New for 2004!)

Impressions: While there’s something familiar about the outward appearance of the seven-passenger Freestar — the long-running Windstar’s replacement — there’s a lot more going on under the double-sliding-side-doored skin than meets the eye. Ford has punched up its minivan by offering a new engine, adding more safety features and reworking the interior to be more functional. Tucked behind the grille of the 2004 Freestar is a new 201-horsepower 4.2-litre OHV V6. Last year’s 200-horse 3.8 is gone. A four-speed automatic is your only transmission choice. Highlighting the rejigged interior is a third-row seat that can be flipped to face the rear, which Ford says will be great for tailgate parties and other outdoor adventures. There are also additional storage bins, cupholders and cubbys to make life on the road a little easier. Freestar will be available in five models: base; SE; Sport; SEL and Limited. If you’re of the handy home-improvement set, you’ll be pleased to know that Freestar can fit 4×8-foot sheets of building material in back, once the seats have been reconfigured, of course. A key safety feature in the Freestar’s roster is an optional head-level airbag that deploys in the event of a rollover. As well, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock are standard. Other improvements over the Windstar include an effort to cut interior noise (more insulation, thicker glass, redesigned roof rack, etc.) and more distinction between the models (SEL and Limited come with two-tone body paint).

Base price: $27,200

Type: Four-door minivan

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre OHV V6 (201)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 13.5/9.4 (2003)

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags with rollover protection (opt.); ABS; traction control (opt.); stability control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,940

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: ford.ca

FORD TRUCKS/SUV

F-150 (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The 2004 F-150 is a new-from-the-ground-up workhorse with more than a few aces up its sleeve and a whole new attitude. Initially, there will be just two V8/automatic transmission powertrain choices, so to cover all the bases during the phase-in, the eight-year-old 2003 F-150 returns, but with a new Heritage designation. For the time being, the ‘new’ F-150 can be had in two box styles (in three lengths) and with available 4×4. Last year’s entry-level V6 as well as a manual transmission are the exclusive domain of the Heritage. In terms of styling, the new body is leaner and meaner and the interiors of all regular cab, extended SuperCab and four-door SuperCrew models have been enlarged with the regular cab appearing to be the most revolutionary. There’s a 32-centimetre-deep storage area behind the seat that’s accessible via a pair of small rear-hinged access doors. The pickup also offers a higher payload capacity (up to 1,320 kilograms) and a deeper box. Bed access is easier with a standard tailgate-assist feature that shoulders some of the up/down weight. Handling improvements come via redesigned rack-and-pinion steering, a wider track, larger standard wheels affixed to four-wheel disc brakes and upgrades to the suspension. For 2004, a 231-horsepower 4.6-litre V8 is standard, while a redesigned 5.4-litre SOHC V8 that generates 300 horsepower (a gain of 40) is optional. Both are connected to a standard-for-now four-speed automatic transmission. A total of five separate trim levels are available, from XL to ultra-luxurious Lariat.

Base price: $27,100 (plus destination)

Type: Two, four-door pickup

Base engine (hp): 4.6-litre SOHC V8 (231)

Optional engine (hp): 5.4-litre SOHC V8 (300)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS

Weight (kg): 2,160

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: ford.ca

F-150 HERITAGE

Impressions: While production of the new F-150 ramps up, Ford will keep the previous-generation pickup (now in its eighth year) around for another season. That should be an indicator of just how popular — and far-reaching — the F-150 lineup really is. Ford has been making pickups since 1925 (the first one sold for $281) and continues as the reigning sales king. The point of keeping the ‘old’ F-150, now called the Heritage, is to offer hardware that’s not available (for now) in the new F-150. For example, the 4.2-litre V6 and five-speed manual transmission offered in the Heritage (regular-cab only) can’t yet be had in the new F-150 (only V8 power is available). As such, various models in last year’s body style — Lariat, FX4 and STX — are no longer available, but you do get a choice of XL and XLT pickups, in two- or four-wheel drive, with their wide assortment of base and optional equipment. Either can be had in regular cab and extended SuperCab livery for 2004, but for a four-door SuperCrew, you’ll have to opt for the new-style truck. Also making a return are the usual 4.6- and 5.4-litre Triton V8s.

Base price: $22,900 (plus destination)

Type: Two, four-door pickup

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre OHV V6 (202)

Optional engines (hp): 4.6-litre SOHC V8 (231); 5.4-litre SOHC V8 (260)

Layout: Front-engine, rear- /four-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 15.6/11.2 (4.6, 4×2, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; ABS

Weight (kg): 1,780

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: ford.ca

GMC

CANYON (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Bigger, better and more powerful, the Canyon replaces GMC’s aging compact Sonoma for 2004. Closely related to Chevrolet’s forthcoming Colorado, the Canyon has a tough-hombre look that’s now the standard in any pickup category, large or small. Only the slightly narrower body gives away the new truck’s mid-size stature. As was the case with its predecessor, Canyon is available in a wide variety of cab styles (regular, extended and crew), box sizes (short and long), drive systems (rear or 4×4) and suspension setups (heavy-duty and off-road). Extended-cab models feature two small doors hinged at the rear, while crew-cab versions offer four full-size doors. Both provide more room than their predecessors. Moving up in size also requires an appropriate power boost. The starting point is a 2.8-litre DOHC four-cylinder that puts out 175 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque. Optional is a 220-horsepower 3.5-litre DOHC inline five-cylinder with 225 lb.-ft. of torque on tap. Both motors are derived from the 275-horse 4.2-litre straight-six that moves GMC’s Envoy, Olds’ Bravada and Chevy Trailblazer sport utes. Connected to either engine is a choice of a newly designed five-speed manual transmission, or optional four-speed automatic that was originally built for the full-size Sierra pickup. Also optional is GMC’s dash-operated shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system that connects to an all-new transfer case. These bigger and more powerful haulers now share a closer relationship to their full-size counterparts than ever before and will add more fuel to the already flaming-hot truck wars.

Base price: TBA

Type: Four-door mid-size pickup

Base engine (hp): 2.8-litre DOHC I4 (175)

Optional engine (hp): 3.5-litre DOHC I5 (220)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 13.2/8.7 (3.5, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS

Weight (kg): 1,520

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

HONDA

CIVIC (Redesigned for 2004)

Impressions: The Honda Civic lineup has so much depth and variety, it could very well stand alone as its own car company. The Civic stable consists of a two-door coupe, four-door sedan and a two-door hatchback. The coupe was developed in the United States and the sedan in Japan to keep the designs as distinctive as possible. For 2004, both receive new front and rear fascia although the trim designations remain relatively the same: DX/LX/Si for both. Honda’s green machine, the Hybrid sedan — similar in thought to the two-door Insight — is back as the ultimate in Civic fuel-pump thriftiness and with new styling for ’04. The hatchback is saved for the fun SiR sport package, which receives larger standard wheels and new trim. ‘Regular’ Civics arrive with a 1.7-litre four-cylinder that puts out 115 horsepower in the DX and LX cars. The Si, which adds VTEC, delivers 127 horsepower. The hot SiR arrives with a 2.0-litre, 160-horsepower engine and a five-speed manual transmission with the stick mounted to the lower dash, rally style. The price-leader DX cars are understandably light on content, but you can turn your Civic into a well-turned-out little rig in no time flat with options such as 15-inch wheels, ABS, moonroof and CD player.

Base price: $16,100

Type: Two-door coupe; four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 1.7-litre SOHC I4 (115)

Optional engines (hp): 1.7-litre-DOHC I4 (127); 2.0-liter DOHC I4 (160, SiR); 1.3-litre SOHC I4 gas/electric hybrid (85+13 for the electric motor)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.); continuously variable (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 7.5/5.9 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,100

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: No

Web: honda.ca

HYUNDAI

ELANTRA (Redesigned for ’04)

Impressions: Hyundai’s Elantra strikes a great balance between content and your monthly payment. In this case, the two wholeheartedly agree as attested to by the fact that the Elantra — which neatly fits between the Accent and the Sonata — is the Korean company’s best-selling car. With loaded up four-door hatchback and sedan variations, including heavily equipped GT hatchback models, it’s really no wonder. This year, the whole line receives a handsome front-and-back visual update that gives Elantra a sophisticated presence in a sea of mundane urban scooters. All models come with a 138-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder (variable valve timing is added this year) mated to a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. While the GL arrives, well, pretty much empty, the VE might be more to your liking as it includes power door locks, windows, outside mirrors, air conditioning, keyless entry and cruise control. The GT, at $18,500 (2003 price), is a relatively easy sell with its Euro-influenced suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, 15-inch alloy wheels, CD sound system, keyless entry, and, of course, the versatility afforded by a rear liftgate. Traction control, anti-lock brakes and power sunroof continue as part of a Premium package that can be tacked onto to the GT.

Base price: $15,300 (2003)

Type: Four-door sedan/hatchback

Base engine (hp): 2.0-litre DOHC I4 (138)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 9.6/6.5 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,220

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: hyundaicanada.com

SANTA FE (New engine for ’04)

Impressions: In an ocean of sport-utility vehicles — 60 different names and counting — the Hyundai Santa Fe stands out on its apart-from-the-pack looks and bang for the buck. The simple fact is the Sante Fe is nearly instantly recognizable and offers ample standard content. An extension of the Sonata car platform, the Santa Fe is available with your choice of a 138-horsepower 2.4-litre four-cylinder, a 2.7-litre V6 with 173 horsepower, or a new 200-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 that’s coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Ordering the four-cylinder gets you front-wheel drive and a five-speed manual shifter. The 2.7 can be had in front or all-wheel-drive with a four-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.5 (which happens to be the same engine found in Hyundai’s XG 350 sedan) comes mated to all-wheel drive (although the system differs from the one hooked to the 2.7). A myriad of combinations spin off the two GL and GLS trim designations, which carry over from last year. Despite its low entry price, and regardless of drivetrain, even the base GL Santa Fe comes with air conditioning, CD stereo, power windows, locks and heated mirrors, keyless remote entry as well as four-wheel disc brakes and alloy wheels. GLS models add heated leather seats, fog lights, anti-lock brakes and a power sunroof. Order your GLS with the 3.5 and you’ll get traction control, side-impact airbags, climate control and a power driver’s seat.

Base price: $21,100 (2003)

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 2.4-litre DOHC I4 (138)

Optional engines (hp): 2.7-litre DOHC V6 (173); 3.5-litre DOHC V6 (200)

Layout: Front engine, front- /all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.); five-speed automatic (3.5 only)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11/7/8.1 (2.4)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,590

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: hyundaicanada.com

SONATA

Impressions: Hyundai’s four-door Sonata has decidedly upscale looks and content without a price to match. This mid-level gem is also a car to consider when you want small monthly payments but not a small car. Extensively revised just two years ago, Sonata is available in three versions for 2004: GL; GL-V6; and GLX. Even starter models arrive with air conditioning, cruise control, power windows/locks/mirrors, CD stereo, keyless entry, four-wheel disc brakes and automatic transmission with manual-shift mode. A 138-horsepower 2.4-litre four-cylinder or an optional 170-horsepower 2.7-litre V6 drive the front wheels. At the high end of the Sonata spectrum, the GLX arrives with a leather interior, woodgrain trim, rear-seat centre armrest, climate control, power driver’s seat (heated), power sunroof and anti-lock brakes. The Sonata is actually mechanically similar to the Kia (which Hyundai now owns) Magentis.

Base price: $21,600 (2003)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.4-litre DOHC I4 (138)

Optional engine (hp): 2.7-litre DOHC V6 (170)

Layout: Front engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 10.9/7.2 (2.4)

Safety: Front airbags ABS (opt.); traction control

Weight (kg): 1,460

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: hyundaicanada.com

KIA

AMANTI (NEW FOR 2004!)

Impressions: Five years ago, the term ‘luxury Kia’ would have gotten you plenty of puzzled looks, giggles and goofy stares – even from Kia executives – but here it is, in the flesh, for 2004, and for less money than you’d expect. Bearing some mechanical similarity to the Hyundai XG350 (Hyundai and Kia attend the same family reunions, now), the four-door, five-passenger Kia Amanti packs one heck of a standard-features wallop for around $24,000. It includes dual-zone climate control, 270-watt sound system with in-dash CD changer, power driver’s seat with memory, anti-lock brakes, stability control, side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags (to protect the ol’ bean). Under the hood, Kia is plays it safe with the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 that rears its 195 horsepower in a number of Hyundai-based products such as the Sedona, Sorento and XG350. A five-speed automatic that can be manually shifted is also part of the program. In terms of size, Kia says the Amanti has bigger innards than that of a Buick LeSabre or a Toyota Avalon. You’ll also find plenty of hidden cupholders and storage bins as well as woodgrain accents and 10-year powertrain warranty. A luxury Kia? No giggles, no odd stares, just a simple nod.

Base price: $31,000 (est.)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.5-liter DOHC V6 (195)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic

L/100km (city/hwy): 12.3/8.7 (est.)

Safety: Front airbags, side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags;

ABS; traction control; stability control

Weight (lb.): 3,500 (est.)

Basic warranty: 5/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: kia.com

JAGUAR

XJ SERIES (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The redesigned seventh-generation XJ is a modern interpretation of a classic British luxury sedan. Much of the car’s great looks and key design elements are retained — including the split grille, dual headlights and gently sloping rear deck — in a package that is not only longer, wider and taller than before, but 80-kilograms lighter. The result is more interior room for five occupants and trunk space to match. Even the door openings have been enlarged for easier access. Jaguar traditionalists will still find a cosy interior trimmed with leather and walnut. A stronger and lighter all-aluminum monocoque (frameless) chassis houses an air-suspension that replaces last year’s coil springs. Ride quality is influenced by computer-controlled shocks that constantly adapt to road conditions. Base XJ8s as well as the premium Vanden Plas use a new 4.2-litre DOHC V8 that makes 294 horsepower, 14 more than last year’s 4.0-litre engine. For serious performance, the XJR’s supercharged 4.2 delivers 390 horsepower, a gain of 32 over the previous cat. Both are connected to six-speed automatic transmissions that boast normal and sport-shift ranges. Other premium-grade amenities include dual-zone climate control (four-zone optional), power moonroof, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power front seats, rain-sensing wipers and a trunk that automatically latches. The Vanden Plas gets a DVD navigation system, Xenon headlamps, premium audio system, 16-way power adjustable front seats and lamb’s-wool rugs.

Base price: $88,500

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC V8 (294)

Optional engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC V8, supercharged (390, XJR)

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 13.0/7.8 (XJ8)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,730

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: jaguarcars.ca

LEXUS

RX 330 (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Although Lexus wiped its styling slate clean, the design of the new RX 330 shares a strong familiarity with the original RX 300. Most key dimensions have been increased, with an extra 10 centimetres in wheelbase and 15 more centimetres in total length. As a result, there is a whopping 20-per-cent gain in storage space. Along with its library-like silence (claimed to be close to that of an ES 330 sedan), the interior of the five-passenger RX 330 shares little with the old model. The instrument panel has been made over, a sliding centre console has been added and the reclining rear seat back can now be split 40/20/40. Now standard is an additional airbag protecting the driver’s knees as well as front-seat and side-curtain airbags to protect the upper body. Newly available for ’04 is a power-operated rear liftgate and an automatic retractable rear tonneau cover. Significant changes abound underneath the sheetmetal as well. The new suspension is connected to a stiffer platform and works with standard 17-inch wheels. Optional is an air suspension that features four different settings: Normal; Low; High; and Access (a super-low setting for loading/unloading). Keeping the Lexus on the run is a 230-horsepower 3.3-litre DOHC V6 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission, an upgrade over the RX 300’s four-speed unit. Extra-cost add-ons include a multi-panel sunroof, 240-watt 11-speaker audio package, rear-seat DVD entertainment unit, DVD-based navigation system with voice recognition capability and a rear-facing camera that automatically displays your reverse direction onto a dash-mounted screen.

Base price: $49,900

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 3.3-litre DOHC V6 (230)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, full-time four-wheel drive

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.8/9.0

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; driver’s-side knee airbags; ABS; stability control; traction control

Weight (kg): 1,840

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: lexus.ca

MAZDA

MAZDA3 (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Year in and year out, the Mazda Protegé has provided some of the best small-car value to be found anywhere. Building on the success of this roomy runabout, Mazda takes technology and design to the next level with the Mazda3. Let’s face it, the Protegé is a tough act to follow, so the Mazda3 had better kick it up a notch. That means an all-new, more rigid platform and new suspension and chassis components driven by the front wheels with a standard 148-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine or optional 160-horsepower 2.3-litre I4. That also means mandatory four-wheel disc brakes, electric power steering and optional head-curtain airbags, rain-sensing wipers and stability control. It also means new style that looks anything but entry level. The familial similarities to the larger Mazda6 are obvious, especially from the front, with a touch of RX-8 thrown in for good measure. The Mazda3 is available in four-door sedan (in GX, GS and GT trim) and four-door Sport hatchback (in GS and GT) body styles that outpace the Protegé in all key dimensions, especially overall length (seven centimetres, sedan to sedan). Perhaps underscoring just how roomy the Protegé really was, the interior dimensions are close, with a slight rear-seat legroom advantage going the Mazda3. Along with the sporty looks and new standard amenities, comes a sporty new attitude. No matter the engine, you’ll be able to tack on an appearance package that includes ground effects and spoilers.

Base price: 16,200 (sedan); $20,200 (Sport)

Type: Four-door sedan; four-door hatchback

Base engine (hp): 2.0-litre DOHC I4 (148)

Optional engine (hp): 2.3-litre DOHC I4 (160)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 8.7/6.5 (2.0, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.); side-curtain airbags (opt.); stability control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,230

Basic warranty: 3/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mazda.ca

MAZDA6 (New for 2004!)

Impressions: On any given day, Mazda can turn out some of the highest-ranked, on-the-money niche automobiles to be found anywhere. The 2004 Mazda6 mid-sized sedan/wagon/hatchback, replacements for the long-standing 626 and Millenia, appears to be yet another grand slam in the company’s list of greatest hits. Appearing in sedan trim for now, the Mazda6 will, by spring, arrive in five-door hatchback and five-door wagon variations. The new ‘6’ is noticeably larger and more aggressive looking than the 626, with a wider stance, bulging fenders and pronounced front nose and grille. Mazda’s use of front and rear double-wishbone suspensions is also designed to give the car a sportier posture. Once inside, you’ll find titanium-look trim around the dash and chrome accents surrounding various dials and gauges. Another nice touch puts drink-bottle holders in the front-door pockets. The wagon and hatchback will arrive with a 60/40 split rear seat back that will fold to leave a completely flat loading surface. Choose between a 160-horsepower 2.3-litre four-cylinder or a 220-horsepower 3.0-litre V6 in either GS or GT designations. Both motors can be connected to a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional on four-cylinder models, while a five-speed automatic can be had with the V6. Options includes side-impact/side-curtain airbags and traction control.

Base price: $24,300

Type: Four-door sedan; four-door hatchback; four-door wagon

Base engine (hp): 2.3-litre DOHC I4 (160)

Optional engine (hp): 3.0-litre DOHC V6 (220)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.); five-speed automatic (opt. on V6)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 9.6/6.7 (2.3, MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags/ side-curtain airbags (opt.); traction control (opt.); ABS (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,380

Basic warranty: 3/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mazda.ca

RX-8 (NEW FOR 2004!)

Impressions: After an eight-year absence, Mazda has brought back its rotary-engined wonder in a ground-breaking four-door package. The RX-8 picks up where the RX-7 left off in 1995 by providing the kind of high-revving power that never fails to impress. Mazda has reverted to a more practical design for the RX-8, however, with two full-size doors plus two rear-hinged mini-portals that provide access to the back seats. Inside, the four passenger spots are separated by a full-length floor console. Niceties include well-bolstered front bucket seats, tri-oval gauge cluster with a digital speed readout and a thickly padded race-car-style steering wheel. Under the hood lives a completely redesigned 1.3-litre twin-rotor Wankel engine called the Renesis, which is small, light and nestled well behind the front wheels to help provide close to 50/50 front/rear weight distribution for optimum handling. In its most potent form, the six-speed-manual-gearbox-equipped Renesis develops 238 non-turbocharged horsepower but just 159 lb.-ft. of torque. A less athletic, although slightly more torquey 197-horsepower version comes on models fitted with the paddle-shifted four-speed automatic transmission. Mazda has seen fit to deck out the RX-8 GS with air conditioning, cruise control, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, six-speaker audio system with CD player and power windows, locks and mirrors. Also standard are front and seat-mounted airbags plus side-curtain airbags. The better-equipped GT adds power and heated leather seats, Xenon self-leveling headlamps, ant-theft alarm and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. A navigation system is optional on the GT as is a power glass moonroof.

Base price: $36,800

Type: Four-door coupe

Base engine (hp): 1.3-litre rotary (197/238)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic; six-speed manual

L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.8/9.2 (AT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; stability and traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,390

Basic warranty: 3/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mazda.ca

MITSUBISHI

DIAMANTE (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The top-drawer Australian-built Diamante this year sails into Canadian luxury waters that are teeming with cut-throat competitors. Fortunately, Mitsubishi is not going to let its three-pointed star performer, which, for 2004, makes its debut in this country, bob around for dear life without a fighting chance. That’s why when compared to last year’s U.S.-only model there’s a new front fascia and grille as well some interior enhancements, including updated fabrics. Pitching in to help is the fun VR-X model with its sporty exterior cues (rear spoiler, black mesh grille, unique 16-inch wheels, etc.), traction control and a sport-tuned suspension. Below the VR-X is the not-so base ES, while the slot above is occupied by the glittery LS. The VR-X receives a 210-horsepower 3.5-litre V6, while the ES/LS receive the same powerplant with a 205-horse rating. Although precise details with regards to what each model will get are sketchy as of this writing, we can tell you that in the United States, standard equipment on all Diamantes includes climate control, power windows, door locks and outside mirrors, cruise control, six-speaker stereo and an anti-theft system. Selecting the LS provides a sunroof, leather interior, universal garage-door opener, 16-inch alloy wheels, power driver’s seat and eight-speaker sound system with CD player.

Base price: $37,000 (est)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.5-litre SOHC V6 (205/210)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS; traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,560

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mitsubishicars.ca

ENDEAVOR (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The new Endeavor slots between the Montero Sport and the top-of-the-line Montero in terms of size and price. Borrowing tough-looking styling cues from its siblings, the Endeavor is simply loaded with character, something many of its competitors seem to lack. Especially noticeable are its overly massive fender bulges that seem to have been pulled and tugged from the body. Look under the skin, however, you’ll find that the Galant sedan is the source for the Endeavor’s unitized construction. Therefore, the chassis has been calibrated for cruising comfort rather than slogging it through the hinterland. Still, with more than 20 centimetres of ground clearance, there’s sufficient room to navigate back-road mud and snow, yet it’s not so tall as to require a stepladder for easy access. Keeping the Endeavor on the move is a Montero Sport-based 215-horsepower 3.8-litre SOHC V6. A four-speed automatic Sportronic transmission allows drivers to shift for themselves. Endeavor comes in three models — LS, XLS and Limited — all available in either front-, or all-wheel drive. The base version comes with air conditioning, cruise control, adjustable steering wheel, keyless remote entry, CD-equipped six-speaker sound system and power windows, locks and outside mirrors. The XLS adds better seat fabric, graphic display screen and a premium audio system with six-disc CD changer, while the top-of-the-line Limited includes climate control, leather seats (heated in front), painted bumpers, tire-pressure monitoring system, side-impact airbags and a power sunroof. You’ll also be able to load up the Limited with a rear-seat video entertainment system.

Base price: $34,000

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 3.8-litre SOHC V6 (215)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, two- /all-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.); stability control (opt.); tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 1,710

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mitsubishicars.ca

GALANT (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Mitsubishi spices up its mid-sized sedan lineup for 2004 with a new California-designed Galant that appears to be a blend of both new and been-there-done-that shapes. No matter the influence, the new Galant is larger in every respect, with the exception of a bit of trunk space. The new platform is also significantly stiffer in a move to aid overall ride and handling. Aside from a reworked five-passenger interior with the easy-to-read overlapping circular gauges, big changes are in store under the hood. Base DE and ES sedans are equipped with a 2.4-litre SOHC four-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower, 20 more than last year’s 2.4. More enticing is the 3.8-litre SOHC V6 — replacing last year’s 3.0 — that’s stuffed into the Galant LS and top-dog GTS. Delivering an impressive 230 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque, the optional motor is one of the largest in its class in terms of displacement but just shy of the 240-horse rating posted by the Honda Accord V6 or the 245 horsepower cranked out by the 3.5-litre-V6-powered Nissan Altima. As was the case with the previous Galant, a four-speed automatic remains the only transmission choice. As for content, even the base DE includes air conditioning, heated side mirrors, keyless remote entry, tilt steering, CD audio system, four-wheel disc brakes and power windows, locks and outside mirrors. Go right to the top and the V6-powered GTS arrives loaded with climate control, premium sound system, 17-inch alloy wheels, stiffer suspension, rear spoiler, leather and side-impact airbags to name just a few ingredients.

Base price: $23,000

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.4-litre SOHC I4 (160)

Optional engine (hp): 3.8-litre SOHC V6 (230)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,410

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: mitsubishicars.ca

NISSAN

MAXIMA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The Maxima’s unique high-fashion design, impressive power and exclusive features are what separate it from the mainstream of off-the-rack competitors for 2004. How exclusive? Look beyond the clean lines and the wood or available brushed-aluminum accents on the steering wheel, door panels and dash-mounted controls and you’ll see a new ‘Skyview’ roof that consists of two non-opening glass panels that run lengthwise down the middle of the Maxima’s ceiling. (If they like, buyers can opt for a more traditional power-operated sunroof.) Another unusual option consists of two rear bucket seats. The only familiar piece of hardware is a 265-horsepower version of the ubiquitous 3.5-litre DOHC V6 that’s found in a wide variety of other Nissan/Infiniti products. The transmission you get depends on the model: the sporty SE receives a six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic, while the cruiser-like SL comes with a four-speed automatic. For 2004, the much larger and roomier Maxima is making a move to the luxury end of the spectrum, most likely due to the Altima sedan’s wide success in the middle ground. Items such as dual-zone climate control with filtration, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, eight-way power driver’s seat, heated seats (including rear seats on four-passenger models), heated steering wheel and automatic on/off headlights top the list of standard features. Greeting your ears is a 320-watt eight-speaker audio system with in-dash CD changer, while hopefully you’ll never have to use any of the six airbags that adorn the cabin.

Base price: $34,500

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.5-litre DOHC V6 (265)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic; five-speed automatic (opt. on SE); six-speed manual (std. on SE)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.5/7.3 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; stability control (opt.); traction control (opt); GPS tracking (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,570

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: nissan.ca

PATHFINDER ARMADA

(New for 2004!)

Impressions: ar-ma-da (är mä ´da) n. A fleet of warships; a large force of moving things.

–Webster’s Dictionary

The definition of the name no doubt reflects Nissan’s ambition to take the full-size sport-utility market by storm. You can choose to do one of two things: climb aboard and drive one; or get out of the way — now. The four-door body-on-frame Armada is based on Nissan’s new Titan truck platform and shares that vehicle’s engine and drive system: a 305-horsepower 5.6-litre DOHC V8/five-speed automatic combo mated to four-wheel drive. The Armada can seat up to eight passengers and arrives with anti-lock brakes, optional side-impact airbags and standard side-curtain airbags (for all three rows of seats) with rollover protection. Two trim levels are available: SE; and LE. All come with a four-wheel-drive system that automatically divvies up the torque between the front and rear axles. It also has a full-time 4×4 mode and low range for serious towing or climbing. Standard stuff for Nissan’s fleet of off-roaders includes air/cruise/power locks, windows and doors, as well as adjustable brake and accelerator pedals. When all the seats are folded flat, Armada can transport items up to 10 feet (three metres) in length with the rear liftgate closed. Available options include heated leather seats, DVD entertainment system, dual-zone climate control, power liftgate and a DVD-based navigation system. Of course, there are also several option packages that can be tacked onto the various trim levels. Welcome aboard.

Base price: $53,500

Type: Four-door, full-size sport-utility vehicle

Base engine (hp): 5.6-litre DOHC V8 (305)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel drive

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); side-curtain airbags; ABS; stability control (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): N/A

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: nissan.ca

QUEST (New for 2004!)

Impressions: We’d have to say that Nissan is just plain fed up with a minivan that blends in with the landscape. Perhaps the company was even a bit hamstrung with its shared arrangement with Mercury. Now that that’s done and over with, the Ford division has gone its own way with the U.S-only Monterey, and Nissan has a brand-spanking new Quest. Itching for a big change, Nissan has not only made a one-of-a-kind visual statement (in fact, the company says it was just trying to keep up with the design standards set by its other new models), but has ballooned the exterior dimensions to maxi-van proportions. Total interior room is up by a whopping 44 cubic feet (about the size of a washer/dryer combo). The Quest shares its platform with other Nissan products, such as the Murano sport-utility vehicle, and separates itself from the competition with a Maxima-style front clip and a beltline that dramatically droops at the front doors. Another distinction is the optional Skyview roof, with its glass ceiling panels located above the second- and standard third-row seats. The base Quest 3.5 S and mid-level 3.5 SL come with a 240-horsepower (you guessed it) 3.5-litre V6 coupled to a four-speed automatic transmission. The top-grade 3.5 SE runs with the same motor, but gets a five-speed automatic. Regardless of model, Quests show up with extra-wide sliding side doors, side-curtain airbags, tire-pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes, traction control and eight-speaker CD-equipped sound system. The 3.5 SL adds power sliding doors, side-impact airbags, power liftgate and backup sensor, while the 3.5 SE includes stability control and the Skyview roof.

Base price: $32,900

Type: Four-door minivan

Base engine (hp): 3.5-litre DOHC V6 (240)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic; five-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.4/8.2 (4AT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control (opt.); tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 1,810

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: nissan.ca

TITAN (NEW FOR 2004!)

Impressions: Nissan has decided to go big or stay home with its new full-size North American-built Titan pickup. After redesigning just about every vehicle in its fleet and breaking new ground with hot rides such as the Murano sport utility vehicle and 350Z sports car, the ‘Nissan Revival’ has hit full stride. The Titan, due out in December, is built on a platform that also forms the basis of a new full-size Pathfinder Armada sport-ute. From the outside, the Titan mimics the dimensions and attitude of the Dodge Ram, Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-150. An all-aluminum 300-plus-horsepower 5.6-litre DOHC V8 helps the Nissan hit 100 km-h in a reported seven seconds. Perhaps more important is the torque, as in close to 400 lb.-ft., most of which is available from just 2,500 r.p.m. That helps the Titan tow 4,270 kilograms when appropriately equipped. You’ll also get rack-and-pinion steering, beefy suspension pieces as well as ‘dual-stage’ leaf springs designed to keep you in control with heavy loads. Two cab styles are offered: extended King Cab (with a pair of reverse opening rear access doors that swing 180 degrees); and a four-door Crew Cab. Bed lengths are 6′ 6" and 5′ 6", respectively. Both two- or four-wheel drive are available. With a flat cabin floor, there’s enough interior room to hold five adults. Interior amenities include a choice of bench or bucket seats as well as adjustable foot pedals. Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock are standard as well as side-impact and side-curtain airbags (to protect the head) and tire-pressure monitoring. Options include a Utility Bed package that offers a flexible tie-down system (to hold down, among other things, the planned sliding toolbox). There’s also special bed lighting, a factory-supplied bed liner and a storage bin built in behind the driver’s-side rear wheel.

Base price: TBA

Type: Two- or four-door pickup

Base engine (hp): 5.6-litre DOHC V8 (305, est.)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, rear-/four-wheel drive

Transmission: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; stability control (opt.); traction control; tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): N/A

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: nissan.ca

PONTIAC

GRAND PRIX (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Despite its total absence of clutter and tacked-on cladding, the 2004 Grand Prix’s evolutionary styling remains unmistakably similar to that of the ’03 version. Key dimensions, including length, width and height, are within a few centimetres, and curb weights are also similar. The Grand Prix’s reshaped interior includes a trio of large, easy-to-read gauges and clearly marked controls that allow the driver to focus on the job at hand. Access to the passenger compartment is through ample doors that open to a near 90-degree angle. There’s also a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that, when combined with the optional flip-forward front-passenger seatback, can accommodate extra-long items such as bicycles (no kidding), ladders, carpets, building materials, etc. The rear decklid is also wider and drops lower to the ground for easier loading. Under the hood, it’s a familiar story. The starting-point GT1 and GT2-designated models come with a 200-horsepower 3.8-litre OHV V6. Serious performance fanatics are directed to the GTP with its supercharged 3.8 that ups the stakes to 260 horsepower and 280 lb.-ft. of torque. Both powerplants are connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Order the Competition Group (Comp G, for short), which includes a firmer suspension, stability control and V-rated rubber, and you’ll receive steering-wheel-mounted paddles to do the shifting. Although the GT1 is intended for fleet duty, the better-equipped GT2 adds anti-lock brakes, traction control, six-way power driver’ seat, steering-wheel-mounted stereo controls and 16-inch alloy wheels. Aside from the more powerful engine, the GTP comes with 17-inch wheels and one year of OnStar service, GM’s GPS-based help desk.

Base price: $29,000

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 3.8-litre OHV V6 (200)

Optional engine (hp): 3.8-litre OHV V6, supercharged (260)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.8/7.1 (base 3.8)

Safety: Front airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS (opt.); stability control (opt.); traction control (opt.); GPS tracking

Weight (kg): 1,580

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: gmcanada.com

PORSCHE

CAYENNE (New for 2004!)

Impressions: What once would have been considered complete heresy — a Porsche sport-utility vehicle — is now the standard by which all others are judged. Long-time Porsche purists might roll their eyes and guffaw at the Cayenne, but we’re not alone in thinking the company has done a good job of injecting sports-car guts and glory into a luxury off-roader. Exactly how much of each depends on your selection — base Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo — and your budget. Common to both is a 4.5-litre DOHC V8 (installed ahead of the passenger compartment, not behind) and a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual control. Then there’s the permanent four-wheel-drive setup that can direct up to 100 per cent of the 340 or 450 horsepower (Cayenne Turbo) to the front or rear wheels as needed. Over-the-top technology abounds in the Cayenne, including variable pneumatic suspension that electronically adjusts the ride height and shock damping depending on surface conditions and your driving style. For serious rock hopping, the Advanced Off-Road Technology Package not only features side sill protection and skid plates, but front and rear anti-roll bars that hydraulically disconnect at the touch of a switch to increase suspension travel. An extensive list of standard content includes climate control, power windows and front seats, leather interior and 14-speaker Bose stereo. The Turbo adds an electrically adjustable heated steering wheel and heated front and rear seats. For the question, ‘what weighs 2,270-plus kilograms, can ford a 55-centimetre-deep river, tow 3,500-kilograms and accelerate to 100 km-h in 5.5 seconds?’, Porsche has the answer: Cayenne.

Base price: $78,300 (S); $125,100 (Turbo)

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 4.5-litre DOHC V8 (340)

Optional engine (hp): 4.5-litre DOHC V8, twin-turbocharged (450)

Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel drive

Transmission: Six-speed Tiptronic automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 17.1/11.7

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control

Weight (kg): 2,250

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: porsche.co

m

SUBARU

FORESTER

(New engine for ’04)

Impressions: Arriving in showrooms for 2004 is a Forester wagon that contains a strong dose of sport-utility influence without driving a visual wedge between itself and the rest of the Subaru lineup. And now there’s more power in store for buyers, courtesy of a 210-horse turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The new 2.5 XT, as it’s called, joins the 2.5 X/XS models with their 165-horsepower 2.5-litre non-turbo engines. The 2.5 XT visually differentiates itself with a functional hood scoop, unique wheels and body-coloured side cladding. Leather and/or an automatic transmission can be added. The rest of the Forester line carries on with standard side-impact airbags, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, overhead console and a CD player, all of which obviously arrives in the XT. Undergoing a rigorous redesign last year, the Forester received a strengthened undercarriage to make it more capable in the rough stuff. There was also a greater use of aluminum (hood, bumper beams and roof rails) that trimmed the weight by about 40 kilograms. Aside from standard anti-lock brakes on all models, manual-transmission-equipped Foresters include a Hill Holder System that keeps the vehicle from rolling backward on a steep incline while the clutch is depressed.

Base price: $28,000; $36,000 (XT)

Type: Four-door sport utility

Base engine (hp): 2.5-litre SOHC H4 (165)

Optional engine (hp): 2.5-litre SOHC H4, turbocharged (210)

Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive

Transmission: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.3/7.9 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags, side-impact airbags; ABS

Weight (kg): 1,400

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: subaru.ca

IMPREZA/WRX/WRX STI

(STI NEW FOR 2004!)

Impressions: Originally intended to put sure-footed all-wheel drive within reach of the masses, the Impreza line has evolved to become a highly sought after collection of niche vehicles with rich rally/racing heritage. Even the vehicle names bring this to a head as the WRX and new WRX STi (which stands for Subaru Tecnica International, Subaru’s motorsports division) head out to tear up the Canadian tarmac. So far, other manufacturers are staying away from the whole rally car thing, with the exception of Mitsubishi, which offers a series of dressed-up non-turbo Lancers for public consumption. (The all-wheel-drive 271-horse Mitsu Evolution, which takes on the new 300-horsepower WRX STi in the United States, is not (yet) offered). That leaves Subaru as the easy king-of-the-rally-hill in this country. The new WRX STi gets its might from a 2.5-litre turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder (100 km-h comes in just five seconds), six-speed manual transmission, Brembo-brand brakes, aluminum hood and light-weight rear glass. The base WRX offers a still-quick 2.0-litre 227-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder in both sedan and hatchback/wagon bodies. The remaining Impreza line — 2.5 RS sedan, 2.5 TS Sport Wagon and Outback Sport — comes in for a little visual resculpting for 2004 (new grille, bumpers, hood, fenders and headlights) as well as some suspension retuning for better ride and more precise handling. Powering all non-turbo models is the usual (or unusual, if you’re not used to Subarus) 2.5-litre flat four that makes 165 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission steps in or you can select a four-speed automatic.

Base price: $23,000; $47,000 (WRX STi)

Type: Four-door sedan; four-door wagon

Base engine (hp): 2.5-litre SOHC H4 (165)

Optional engines (hp): 2.0-litre DOHC H4, turbocharged (227, WRX); 2.5-litre SOHC H4, turbocharged (300 WRX STi)

Layout: Front-engine, all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.); six-speed manual (STi)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 11.3/7.8 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (WRX); ABS

Weight (kg): 1,380

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: subaru.ca

SUZUKI

VERONA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: It’s easy to appreciate Suzuki’s enthusiasm for the new Verona sedan. The look was penned by the famed Pininfarina Italian design studio (that also styles Ferraris and other high-end thrill machines), and, honestly, it’s a sure sign of a life that goes beyond entry-level sedans and off-roaders. Bolted together by Daewoo, which is now owned by General Motors, the front-drive Verona (we checked, it’s definitely an Italian town) is similar in size to a Toyota Camry/Honda Accord and will likely compete in the lower end (for now) of that category. It will also duke it out against the nearly identical Chevrolet Epica. Not due out until the end of this year or early next year, the Verona’s specifics are not something that Suzuki is prepared discuss as of this writing, however we do know that the sedan will be equipped with a 155-horsepower 2.5-litre inline six-cylinder engine (that’s right, not a V6) backed by a four-speed automatic transmission Aside from providing a healthy dose of torque, the powertrain is reported to be good for about the equivalent of 30-32 m.p.g. on the highway. Standard features will include a six-disc in-dash CD player, automatic climate control and alloy wheels, while anti-lock brakes will be optional.

Base price: TBA

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 2.5-litre DOHC I6 (155)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Four-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.); traction control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,500

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: suzuki.ca

TOYOTA

CAMRY SOLARA (New for ’04!)

Impressions: It’s OK to be fashionably late for the party if your entrance is spectacular. Arriving in grand style a full two years after the Camry sedan’s overhaul, the two-door Camry Solara coupe does not disappoint. Compared to last year’s model, which was based on the previous-generation Camry sedan platform, the new Solara is slightly larger in every direction. It also heavily leans toward the luxury side of ‘sport’ with the kind of refinement you’d expect to see in a Lexus (which is Toyota’s upscale division). Whereas some manufacturers would be content with the new look and simply put in the old engines, Toyota decided to integrate the new 225-horsepower version of the 3.3-litre DOHC V6 found in some Lexus models. It’s optional, while the 157-horsepower 2.4-litre DOHC four-cylinder is standard. A new five-speed automatic transmission backs up the V6, while a four-speed automatic is bolted to the 2.4. Solara arrives only in coupe form this year (there’s no convertible as of yet) in SE, SE V6 and high flying SLE V6. A new SE Sport package delivers swoopy body cladding, firmed-up suspension, 17-inch wheels, rear spoiler and machined-look metal sport pedals. However, even base models receive anti-lock brakes, side-impact airbags, air conditioning and all the power fixin’s you can handle. It’s a luxury look with content to match at a reasonable price. Welcome to the party.

Base price: $26,800

Type: Two-door coupe

Base engine (hp): 2.4-litre DOHC I4 (157)

Optional engine (hp) 3.3-litre DOHC V6 (225)

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Four-speed automatic; five-speed automatic (V6)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 10.1/6.7 (2.4)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS; traction control (opt.); stability control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1,470

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: No.

Web: toyota.ca

ECHO (Hatch new for ’04)

Impressions: The next best thing to the hybrid gas-electric Toyota Prius, at least in terms of really sticking it to the gas pump, is the Echo. This year, the company’s welcome mat comes as a sedan, a coupe and a brand-new hatchback (two or four doors), that’s exclusive to the Canadian market. At $13,000, the two-door hatchback (with 60/40 split rear seat) is now the least expensive way into the Toyota lineup. While it might be tempting to add features such as air conditioning, anti-lock brakes as well as a host of power amenities to your Echo, that concept really flies in the face of what the car is all about: reliable; roomy; and inexpensive transportation. Although base cars are frills-free affairs, the overall architecture is quite slick. There’s all kinds of space (including assorted bins and cubbys), it’s absurdly quiet and the smooth little 108-horsepower 1.5-litre four-cylinder just might be the only engine in its class to use variable valve timing to wring out every foot-pound of torque. Perhaps the biggest plus is Toyota’s unwavering dependability. Appealing to hip and trendy buyers is the instrument pod that’s plunked smack-dab in the middle of the dash and an outward shape that’s tough to describe, but easy to spot in a crowded parking lot. With 100 kilometres of highway driving consuming a little more than five liters of gasoline, the number of station stops while driving an Echo are as close to zero as you’ll find anywhere.

Base price: $13,000

Type: Two- /four-door sedan;

two- /four-door hatchback

Base engine (hp): 1.5-litre DOHC I4 (108)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 6.7/5.2 (MT)

Safety: Front airbags; ABS (opt.)

Weight (kg): 930

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: toyota.ca

PRIUS (New for 2004!)

Impressions: Toyota has unleashed a bigger, faster and more feature-laden 2004 Prius that should make the best-seller list on looks alone. While the ’03 Prius delivered impressive fuel savings in a plain-brown wrapper, the seductively styled ’04 edition promises to further lower gasoline consumption with cutting-edge technology. The car has also been upgraded to mid-size status from its previous compact-class perch with more room for five passengers plus a larger cargo hold accessed via a rear hatch. In addition, cargo space can be significantly enlarged by folding flat the rear seats. The new Hybrid Synergy Drive system employs a 1.5-litre 76-horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine and 67-horsepower electric motor that are not only more powerful than their ’03 counterparts, but can operate on their own as well as in tandem. Previously, both assisted one another. Because the electric motor can work on its own (to the tune of nearly 300 lb.-ft of torque at 1,200 r.p.m.), gas mileage increases a full 15 per cent. As an added bonus, Toyota figures that the new Prius will reach 100 km-h two seconds quicker than the previous model. The electrically controlled continuously variable transmission is connected to a dash-mounted toggle shifter. The gas pedal is electrically controlled in a similar fashion. As with the first Prius, this version comes equipped with a full range of features, including electric (not belt-compressor-driven) air conditioning, cruise control, anti-lock brakes and power windows, door locks and mirrors. Also available is what Toyota calls a Smart Entry and Smart Start feature. A sensor in the Prius reads a signal in the key and unlocks the doors as the driver approaches the car. Once behind the wheel, a starter button on the dash brings the Prius to life. As a bonus, depending on the province in which you live, there could be government rebate of up to $2,000 waiting for you.

Base price: $30,000

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 1.5-litre DOHC I4 (70)/electric motor (44)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

Transmission: Continuously-variable

L/100 km (city/hwy): 3.9/4.7

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); ABS

Weight (kg): 1,310

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: toyota.ca

SIENNA (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The all-new 2004 Sienna offers more space, comfort, power, attention to detail and great looks to spice up your driveway. The Camry-sedan-based minivan is longer, wider and taller and its wheelbase has been stretched by more than 12 centimetres, which means you can now tote up to eight passengers, one more than before. The standard front-row bucket seats are augmented by either a second-row bench or two optional captain’s chairs that can be positioned close together or separated to create a fore/aft aisle in between. The standard third-row bench is of the 60/40 split variety for greater load versatility. When not in use, the bench folds to create a perfectly flat load floor. Last year’s 210-horsepower 3.0-litre V6 has been replaced by a 3.3-litre unit that puts out 230 horses. Along with a new powerplant comes a five-speed automatic transmission that replaces the old four-speed unit. The gated-style shifter has been relocated to the base of the dash where it’s easier to reach. The Sienna comes in CE, LE and XLE, with the latter two designations available for all-wheel-drive duty. Even the ‘base’ CE arrives with climate control, power windows (including those in the rear-sliding doors) and door locks, heated power outside mirrors, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, keyless remote entry and a six-speaker audio system with cassette and CD player. Side-impact and side-curtain airbags are available, but only on the XLE. At the top end is the XLE Limited package that includes (bright) high-intensity discharge headlights, spoiler, self-dimming driver’s-side mirror, a DVD entertainment unit, sonar-based park assist and a laser-based cruise-control system.

Base price: $30,000

Type: Four-door minivan

Base engine (hp): 3.3-litre DOHC V6 (230)

Optional engine: None

Layout: Front-engine, front- /all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Five-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.2/8.1

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags (opt.); side-curtain airbags (opt.); ABS; stability control (opt.)

Weight (kg): 1.870

Basic warranty: 3/60,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: toyota.ca

VOLKSWAGEN

PHAETON (New for 2004!)

Impressions: The big deal — and we mean really big — over at your VW dealership for 2004 is the Phaeton, which is intended to provide luxury — real luxury, that is — for less. Less than what, exactly, you ask? Presumably a lot less loot than the Bentley Continental GT (a car that shares the Phaeton’s platform) will fetch. With a wheelbase that’s 15-centimetres longer than that of a Pontiac Bonneville, you can see where Volks is heading . . . up town. It’s a move than seems rather out of place with a company that derives most of its North American income from Jettas, Golfs and a New Beetles. However, when you consider the Passat W8 as well as the new Touareg sport-utility vehicle that’s based on the Porsche Cayenne (not to mention the fact that VW already makes several entry-level vehicles), you have to take the company seriously as a full-line automaker . . . serious to the tune of 330 base horsepower (4.2-litre V8). Or, if you can imagine two V6 engines strapped together in a ‘W’ configuration with a common crankshaft, 414 horsepower from the optional 6.0-litre 12-cylinder engine that belts out 550 lb.-ft of torque. (Just for kicks, the Bentley adds two turbochargers for a whopping 540 horsepower.) For around $80,000, Phaeton buyers will want for nothing as all-wheel drive is standard along with four-zone climate control, electronically controlled air suspension, 10-speaker sound system, navigation system, rear power sunshade, eight airbags, xenon headlights and a sunroof. The W12 model costs about $12,000-$15,000 more, but when you compare the Phaeton to other premium luxury brands out there, it should prove attractive, and not just on price point.

Base price: $80,000-$95,000 (est.)

Type: Four-door sedan

Base engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC V8 (330)

Optional engine (hp): 6.0-litre DOHC W12 (414)

Layout: Front engine, all-wheel drive

Transmissions: Six-speed automatic; five-speed automatic (W12)

L/100 km (city/hwy): N/A

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; GPS tracking

Weight (kg): 2,360

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: vw.ca

TOUAREG (New for 2004!)

Impressions: You know that the sport-utility vehicle water is warm enough when Volkswagen finally decides to dip its big toe into the pond. Of course, that pond has grown into a veritable ocean with more than 60 distinct and separate models available to Canadians. As a late-comer, how will the Volkswagen Touareg make its splash? Certainly a predominant factor will be its Porsche roots, since the Touareg (pronounced ‘Toor-regg’) is largely based on the Cayenne — although you’ll never visually confuse the two — that was introduced last year. While at first blush you might think this is just a jacked-up wagon body with all-wheel drive, that would be selling the Touareg short. It’s actually built for off-road duty. Engine power to the permanent four-wheel-drive platform (with a low range) is split 50/50 to the front/rear wheels under normal driving. Power is redirected when slip is detected. The Touareg is also designed not to run away from you on steep inclines, whether you’re headed up or down. The new Volks deviates from its Porsche cousin under the hood where a base 220-horsepower 3.2-litre DOHC V6 is standard. Optional is a 310-horsepower 4.2-litre DOHC V8. By contrast, base power in the Cayenne is supplied by a 4.5-litre V8 with 340 horses. For $52,100 — $25,000 or so less than a Cayenne — the Touareg comes with plenty of standard goodies of the air/power/tilt/cruise variety as well as rain-sensing wipers, tire-pressure monitoring and a six-speed automatic transmission (no matter the engine). Classified as a light truck, Touareg holds five passengers through two rows of seats and can tow up to 3,500 kilograms — for now, that is. Details on a new 308-horsepower 5.0-liter V10 turbo-diesel are sketchy, but if you’ve got a big boat, this will be your big Volks.

Base price: $52,100 (V6); $60,600 (V8)

Type: Four-door sport-utility

Base engine (hp): 3.2-litre DOHC V6 (220)

Optional engine (hp): 4.2-litre DOHC V8 (310)

Layout: Front engine, four-wheel drive

Transmission: Six-speed automatic

L/100 km (city/hwy): 15.7/10.8 (V6)

Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; ABS; traction control; stability control; tire-pressure monitoring

Weight (kg): 2,300

Basic warranty: 4/80,000

Roadside assistance: Yes

Web: vw.ca