When the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq arrives this fall, it will be price below $70k, including destination fees, which will make it a serious competitor to other mid-size premium electric crossover SUVs, particularly…

New 2023 Cadillac Lyriq EV to be value priced below $70k

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
The new 2023 Lyriq shows an elegant new face for the storied Cadillac luxury brand, along with a wholly new fully electric drive system.

When the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq arrives this fall, it will be price below $70k, including destination fees, which will make it a serious competitor to other mid-size premium electric crossover SUVs, particularly Audi’s fractionally smaller $86,900 E-Tron and BMW’s similarly sized $79,990 iX, plus whatever pricing Mercedes eventually announces for its upcoming EQE SUV.

In fact, there will only be a $10k or so spread between Hyundai’ new Ioniq 5 (that also gets creative with the “q”) and Kia’s even fresher EV6 when either of the two Korean’s are fully loaded, which could cause some to move upmarket to a more luxuriously appointed alternative, although Hyundai’s Genesis brand appears to have that covered with its soon-to-arrive GV60, despite these Asian models being shorter and narrower than their European and American counterparts.

Lyriq to undercut most competitors when it arrives this fall

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
The new Lyriq is visually defined by its artful lighting elements, which are especially eye-catching at night.

Of course, there are some additional all-electric mid-size SUVs either currently for sale or shortly on the way, supply chain bottlenecks and battery components permitting. Those already selling up a storm include Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and Tesla’s Model X, albeit the latter has seen deliveries wane somewhat after the smaller and much more affordable Model Y debuted, whereas Jaguar’s I-Pace suffers from the same difficult-to-understand malady all Jaguars do, lack of interest. The more compact SUV’s $99,800 base price might have something to do with the tepid market response it’s received, however, especially challenging when factoring in the $81,700 base price of the aforementioned Model Y.

Speaking of Tesla, the new Lyriq won’t only be more affordable than the compact Model Y, but it will undercut the cheapest version of Tesla’s larger mid-size Model X by $40k, while there’s also a $30k difference between the significantly roomier Cadillac and the just-noted near-compact Jaguar.

Size matters to families looking for the most accommodating luxury SUV

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
The Lyriq is longer and wider than most competitors, making it an ideal fit for families.

How much larger is the Lyriq than its competitors? From the outside it measures 4,996 mm (196.7 in) long with a 3,094-mm (121.8-in) wheelbase, while its width spans 1,976 mm (77.8 in) and its height reaches 1,623 mm (63.9 in). This makes it 95 mm (3.7 in) longer than the E-Tron, albeit with a 166-mm (6.5-in) greater wheelbase, plus it’s 41 mm (1.6 in) wider and 7 mm (0.3 in) taller.

Similarly, the Lyriq is 43 mm (1.7 in) longer than BMW’s iX, with a 97-mm (3.8-in) longer wheelbase, plus it’s 9 mm (0.4 in) wider and 73 mm (2.9 in) shorter, whereas the as-noted I-Pace is dwarfed by Cadillac’s new offering, due to 314 mm (12.4 in) less length and a 104-mm (4.1-in) shorter wheelbase, plus 81 fewer mm (-3.2 in) of width, and 58 mm (2.3 in) less height. The upcoming GV60 will be smaller than the I-Pace and Ioniq 5/EV6, incidentally, so probably no direct competition to families looking for the most accommodating luxury EV.

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac chose to opt for a more conventional looking driving layout, which should help new EV buyers to acclimatize easier.

Of course, usable space matters more, with the Lyriq providing up to 2,973 litres (105.0 cu ft) of total passenger volume in the cabin, along with 793 litres (28.0 cu ft) of dedicated cargo space behind its second row, plus 1,722 litres (60.8 cu ft) when the split-folding rear compartment is stowed away. When compared to the E-Tron, the Lyriq’s exterior size appears to benefit with 85 litres (3.0 cu ft) more passenger volume and 122 litres (4.3 cu ft) more total cargo space, but the electrified Audi does beat the Caddy EV in dedicated luggage capacity behind the rear seats, albeit just by 14 litres (0.5 cu ft).

Cadillac’s low roof height looks sleek yet cuts into interior space

As for BMW’s iX, its greater height provides 198 litres (7.0 cu ft) of added passenger volume, while the Bavarian model’s dedicated cargo space increases by 212 litres (7.5 cu ft) and maximum gear-toting capability goes up by 484 litres (17.1 cu ft), or about the size of a compact car’s trunk.

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Cabin comfort appears first class, with plenty of room for all occupants to stretch out.

Comparatively, the I-Pace does pretty well for its exterior dimensions with 716 litres (25.3 cu ft) of cargo space behind the second-row seats and 1,444 litres (51 cu ft) with its rear seats folded, while Genesis had yet to publish interior specifications for its GV60 at the time of writing, but being that its 2,900-mm (114.2-in) wheelbase is 100 mm (3.9 in) shorter than the Ioniq 5’s, we shouldn’t expect the same level of interior roominess either.

Still, the Ioniq 5 provides 42.5 litres (1.5 cu ft) more passenger volume than the Lyriq, plus only 22.5 litres (0.8 cu ft) less dedicated cargo space and just 42.5 litres (1.5 cu ft) less luggage capacity with its rear seats folded, so the GV60 could measure up fairly well.

Of course, the Genesis SUV destined to ride on the back of Hyundai’s upcoming Ioniq 7 will be much larger, so let’s wait and see how this luxury crossover EV sector grows out in the near future before judging.

All said, there’s always more to purchasing within the premium sector than mere practicalities, and nothing about the Lyriq’s interior dimensions should turn off would-be buyers.

Performance should live up to Cadillac’s “V” legacy

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Despite the fine materials and classy design, the Lyriq promises to be blisteringly quick in top-tier 500-hp AWD trim.

Blisteringly quick off-the-line acceleration will be nothing new to EV buyers, but the all-wheel drive-equipped Lyriq’s 500-horsepower total output might even cause a few V8-powered Caddy diehards to requestion their dedication to high-octane gasoline power.

The AWD model will receive a dual-motor setup with one driving the front wheels and the other powering the rears, nothing new here, but more importantly this power unit puts the crested-wreath brand in the same ballpark as competitors like Ford’s 480-horsepower Mach-E GT and BMW’s 516-horsepower iX xDrive50. While no torque numbers have surfaced for AWD trim, it should be more than the 340-hp two-wheel drive Lyriq’s twist, which puts 325 lb-ft down to the rear wheels, while the four-wheel drive model will reportedly be capable of up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) of towing capacity.

EV range capable of matching and beating industry leaders

2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Cadillac has made the Lyriq as practical as it is efficient and luxurious, with some of the best load carrying capacity in its class.

As for the Lyriq’s maximum driving range on a single charge, Cadillac is claiming an EPA estimate of up to of 312 miles (502 km) on a full battery in the lesser RWD variant, which might not be in top-line Tesla Model X territory, but it will beat the I-Pace’s 470-km (292-mile) maximum, and will likely do the same to the GV60 (the Ioniq 5’s top range is about 400 km). Audi is promising range of 350-plus miles (563+ km) for its improved 2023 E-Tron, while the BMW iX already has a 324-mile (521-km) claimed EPA rating. The Lyriq AWD should do better, however, possibly even getting close to the Model X’ best 360-mile (579-km) rating, while it will certainly slaughter the pricey California-built competitor when it comes to bang for the buck.

We can expect more info on the new Lyriq as it nears availability, so stay tuned.

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Chef Jordan Kahn shares inspiration for the LYRIQ Electriq Kitchen | Cadillac (1:00):

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Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Cadillac

It was only a matter of time before Jeep gave the extended wheelbase “L” treatment first offered for the then-new 2021 Grand Cherokee L to its more luxury-lined Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models,…

Jeep gives “L” treatment to Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer for more cargo carrying capacity

2023 Grand Wagoneer L Series III
The new extended 2023 Grand Wagoneer L adds length to a very classy full-size SUV.

It was only a matter of time before Jeep gave the extended wheelbase “L” treatment first offered for the then-new 2021 Grand Cherokee L to its more luxury-lined Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, so as expected a 305-mm (12-in) longer and more accommodating version of the 4×4 brand’s full-size family hauler showed up at February’s New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).

Overall, the Wagoneer L/Grand Wagoneer L now measures a sizeable 5,758 mm (226.7 in) from bumper to bumper, which makes it even lengthier than the Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL twins, albeit not by much. In fact, the ultra-long Jeep is just 25 mm (1-in) longer than the 5,733 mm (225.70 in) Chevy, and an even greater 38 mm (1.5 in) more than the 5,720 mm (225.20 in) GMC, while at least as importantly the new Wagoneer L/Grand Wagoneer L’s wheelbase grows a significant 178 mm (7 in) over the regular-length variant, now measuring 3,302 mm (130 in) from axle to axle.

Jeep’s largest ute provides more space behind the third row than Chevy’s Suburban

2023 Wagoneer L Carbide
It’s hard to consider something so large as being sporty, but Jeep’s new 2023 Wagoneer L in its blacked out Carbide trim does a pretty good job.

While 104 mm (4.1 in) down on the two GM SUV’s wheelbases, which span 3,406 mm (134.10 in) apiece, the Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L offer 1,252 litres (44.2 cu ft) of cargo space behind the third row for a surprising gain of 77 litres (2.7 cu ft) over the Suburban/Yukon XL when measured behind the third row. Unfortunately, the advantage wanes when comparing cargo volume behind the second and first rows, the Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L’s 2,514-litre (88.8 cu-ft) capacity being 142 litres (5.0 cu ft) shy of the big GM haulers with respect to the former, whereas its 3,707 litres (130.9 cu ft) of maximum cargo space is 390 litres (13.8 cu ft) less accommodating.

What will matter more to Jeep fans is the size difference when comparing Jeep to Jeep, or rather Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer to Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L, with the longer version gaining 447 litres (15.8 cu ft) of additional cargo volume behind the third row than the standard-wheelbase Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer, which is about 50 percent more, while 510 litres (18.0 cu ft) can be had behind the second row, and lastly 1,039 litres (36.7 cu ft) when both rear rows are folded flat (take note that a large hump interferes with loading floor space in models that incorporate a fixed centre console in the second row). Of note, “Trail Rails” can be added to strap cargo down in back.

Extra curb weight offset by new twin-turbo inline-six with up to 510 hp

2023 Grand Wagoneer L Series III
All Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models can tow up to 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg).

The extra length adds about 90 kilograms (200 lbs) to the Wagoneer L/Grand Wagoneer L’s overall mass, which isn’t all that much considering the extra volume, plus it shouldn’t be all that noticeable on the road thanks to a new available 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, dubbed internally as “Hurricane”.
This new engine will be standard fare in extended L models, with a total of 420 horsepower in the Wagoneer L and a whopping 510 hp in the Grand Wagoneer L, while torque figures are 468 and 500 lb-ft respectively. The two models share towing capacities of 10,000 lbs (4,536 kg) with the shorter wheelbase variants, much due to their robust body-on-frame Ram 1500 donor chassis, while Jeep claims a 15-percent improvement in fuel economy when comparing the less potent version of the inline-six to Chryco’s current 5.7-litre Hemi V8, the latter putting out a substantive 392 horsepower with its eTorque drivetrain, while it’s rated at 13.8 L/100km combined city/highway in the 2022 Wagoneer.

Of note, the regular-wheelbase Wagoneer will keep the 5.7-litre Hemi as its base engine for 2023, while the shorter Grand Wagoneer will also continue to come standard with the optional 6.4-litre V8, that engine incidentally good for 471 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque.

New inline-six shares 8-speed auto and AWD with lesser variants

2023 Grand Wagoneer L
The new Grand Wagoneer in both regular and L wheelbase variants, ups luxury to entirely new level for Jeep.

According to Jeep, 96 percent of the new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine’s components are interchangeable between 420 and 510 hp versions, which of course reduces costs that can be passed down to consumers. Increased power therefore comes from boost and compression differences, while more power is reportedly available for future upgrades.

What’s more, the new engine can be paired with a plug-in hybrid system, so we can probably expect a more formidable, more fuel-efficient and cleaner electrified version in the near future, while this engine can also be fitted to any current rear-wheel drive model, making it ideal for other models in the Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler or Ram lineup.

All of the above noted engines come mated to Chrysler group’s well-proven eight-speed automatic transmission, while each model and trim benefits from four-wheel drive in Canada.

We can expect a limited supply of new Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L models to arrive in Canada later this year, although serious buyers may want to consider ordering as early as possible, considering expected continuations of supply chain interruptions.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Jeep

You’ve mostly likely heard of the CX-5, Mazda’s popular compact crossover SUV, and maybe you’ve even taken notice of the little CX-3 subcompact crossover, not to mention both models’ larger CX-9…

Mazda prices all-new off-road capable 2023 CX-50

2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo
The new 2023 CX-50 provides on-road refinement with more off-road capability than any previous Mazda SUV.

You’ve mostly likely heard of the CX-5, Mazda’s popular compact crossover SUV, and maybe you’ve even taken notice of the little CX-3 subcompact crossover, not to mention both models’ larger CX-9 mid-size seven-passenger utility. If you’re really car savvy you’ll also know that Mazda offers the sporty CX-30 between the CX-3 and CX-5, not to mention the new MX-30 electric crossover that’s sized similarly to the CX-30, but were you aware the new compact CX-50 is on its way?

If you’re CX-confused right about now we’ll understand, because the independent Japanese automaker hasn’t exactly tiptoed lightly into the crossover SUV sector, even having a long-discontinued model (in our market) dubbed CX-7 to its credit. So far, all CX models (including the lone MX-30) have been for pavement and light-duty off-road use only, but Mazda is changing things up with the new 2023 CX-50, and beefing up the brand’s styling while they’re at it.

New CX-50 offers plenty more SUV for many more dollars

2023 Mazda CX-50
Mazda is targeting the new CX-50 at those who are more serious about their outdoor lifestyles.

Ushering in a new look for Mazda’s SUV lineup, the CX-50 joins the CX-30 in previewing an entirely new naming scheme for Mazda’s SUV lineup, which will eventually be followed by the two-row CX-70 and three-row CX-90 mid-size models. The compact CX-50 is sized similarly to the current CX-5, yet it’s priced higher at $37,900 in base GS-L trim, making it $7,700 pricier than today’s base CX-5. Likewise, the CX-50 GT will start at $42,850, which makes it $3,900 more expensive than the equivalent 2022 CX-5 GT AWD.

For that we can expect even more premium finishings and features, plus, as noted earlier, the ability to venture farther off the beaten path than its more city-centric sibling. Some standard 2023 CX-50 GX-L features include LED headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear rooftop spoiler, a 7.0-inch driver’s display, a 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, heatable front seats and a heated steering wheel rim, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, leatherette upholstery, a panoramic glass sunroof, and a powered rear liftgate. Additionally, standard driver assist systems will include emergency front braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.

GT and Meridian Edition trims should be popular

2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo
The CX-50 will be available with with 187 hp and 256 hp engine options, plus standard AWD.

The CX-50 GT further adds adaptive cornering headlamps, a head-up display system, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, a 360-degree surround parking camera, ventilated front seats, a powered front passenger seat, leather upholstery, premium audio, a navigation system, wireless phone charging, and rear emergency braking.

Later this year, Mazda will also offer a CX-50 Turbo Meridian Edition, featuring exclusive 18-inch rims on all-terrain rubber, beefier headlight and rocker panel protective cladding, and available “outdoor-specific” accessories. We can expect pricing for this model to arrive closer to its availability.

Longer and leaner CX-50 provides an athletic stance

2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo
Top-tier CX-5’s are already quite luxurious, with Nappa leather upholstery and real hardwood trim, but the CX-50 should still see improvements.

While some literature claims the CX-50 as a mid-size model, in North America it will be considered a compact as it’s only slightly larger than our current CX-5 and shares the compact model’s transverse platform underpinnings, which also gets utilized by the even smaller CX-30 and fourth-generation Mazda3. All in all, the CX-50 measures 4,719 mm (185.8 in) long with a 2,814-mm (110.8-in) wheelbase, plus it’s 1,852 mm (72.9 in) wide and between 1,613 and 1,623 mm (63.5–63.9 in) tall, depending on the trim.

This makes the CX-50 169 mm (6.6 in) longer than the CX-5, with 116 mm (4.5 mm) of added wheelbase for significant growth from nose to tail, but it’s only 10 mm (0.4 in) wider, the key measurement when comparing compact to mid-size models. What’s more, even at its tallest the CX-50 is a considerable 57 mm (2.2 in) lower than the CX-5, which helps make it appear longer, leaner and thus, sportier.

CX-50 performance and fuel economy should remain similar to the CX-5

2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo
The CX-50 will come standard with a 7.0-inch digital driver’s display.

Whether it actually feels sportier off the line will be another story, being that the CX-50 utilizes the same standard 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine as the CX-5, rated at an identical 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, although it comes standard with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation. It also features the same six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive system, yet the CX-50 weighs in at 1,681 to 1,772 kg (3,706–3,907 lbs), depending on trim, a weighty 176 to 113 kg (388–249 lbs) more than the lightest and heaviest CX-5.

In GT Turbo trim, the CX-50 will receive the CX-5’s optional 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, and thus should help minimize any performance differences, although take note that engine output is reduced to 227 hp and 310 lb-ft when running 87-octane regular unleaded fuel.

Standard “Mi-Drive” system includes Off-Road driving mode

2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo
The CX-50 is considerably longer than today’s CX-5, with greater wheelbase too, so we can expect more rear seat legroom.

The 2023 CX-50 GT Turbo will start at $45,350, and like the other trims will receive various standard “Mi-Drive” driving modes including Sport, Off-Road and Tow settings, while the CX-50’s trailering capacity is average for the class at 907 kg (2,000 lbs) when fitted with the naturally aspirated engine, but up to 1,587 kg (3,500 lbs) with the turbo.

As for fuel economy, the CX-5 may not offer greater relief at the pump unless the 2023 model receives some transmission updates, because the current cylinder-deactivated all-wheel drive model is rated at 9.8 L/100km in the city, 7.9 on the highway and 9.0 combined, compared to the CX-50’s claimed estimate of 9.7 L/100 km city, 7.9 highway and 8.9 combined. Yes, you read that correctly. The new CX-50 is thriftier on fuel than the much lighter CX-5. Let’s see how these two come out in the wash, so to speak, because the CX-50 really should go through slightly more fuel, unless its longer, lower shape allows for big aerodynamic improvements on the highway.

New U.S.-built CX-50 to arrive in May

All said, the 2023 CX-50, which will be built on a separate line alongside the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing joint-venture plant in Huntsville, Alabama, will go on sale in May of this year. The new plant will be capable of building up to 300,000 units per year, split between the two automakers.

Introducing the first-ever Mazda CX-50 | Mazda Canada (1:25):

Introducing the First-ever Mazda CX-50 | First Look | Mazda USA (1:42):

The First-ever Mazda CX-50 | For Collectors of Rare Experiences (0:15):

The First-ever Mazda CX-50 | Beautifully Capable (0:15):

The First-ever Mazda CX-50 | Every Road Is an Invitation (0:15):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Mazda

Porsche is adding a new “T” trim line to its most popular Macan model for 2023, and it looks to be an ideal combination of fuel-efficiency and agility. The Macan, which was updated midway through…

Porsche Canada introduces sporty new Macan T for 2023

2023 Porsche Macan T
The new 2023 Macan T adds sporty styling and sharper handling performance to the more affordable four-cylinder model.

Porsche is adding a new “T” trim line to its most popular Macan model for 2023, and it looks to be an ideal combination of fuel-efficiency and agility.

The Macan, which was updated midway through 2021 for the current 2022 model year, gets refreshed exterior styling as well as an updated interior. Key details inside include a new centre stack and console, incorporating a 10.9-inch touchscreen filled with a fully-networked Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment interface up top, plus a stylish glass-like interface with touch-sensitive switchgear below.

Macan T adds special styling details

2023 Porsche Macan T
Grey Agate metallic and high-gloss black trim, plus 20-inch grey alloys from the Macan S add some aggression to the new T’s visual character.

The new 2023 Macan T adds some nice exterior and interior design details such as Agate Grey metallic trim elements outside, specifically on the front fascia, mirror caps, side blades (which also include “Macan T” script), the rooftop spoiler, and the rear bumper cap, plus glossy black exterior window trim and exhaust pipes, as well as Dark Titanium 20-inch Macan S alloy wheels and the choice of 13 plain, metallic and special colours.

Stepping inside reveals “Macan T” branded black aluminum door sill plates, a multifunction GT steering wheel featuring a heated leather-wrapped rim (that can optionally be covered in Race-Tex), and heatable eight-way powered sport seats with grey pinstriped Sport-Tex centre panels and embossed Porsche crests on the front headrests. This exclusive upholstery is based on the Macan’s Black leather package, and therefore features silver stitching on the seat bolsters, headrests, and steering wheel rim.

Lightweight four-cylinder Macan prioritizes handling

2023 Porsche Macan T
The mirror caps get the Grey Agate metallic treatment for a sportier look.

Up until now the “T” designation has never been used outside of Porsche’s 718 and 911 sports cars lines, and due to this the Macan T is the first Porsche with steel suspension components to bear the name, plus the first four-door model to do so. T, which stands for Touring in Porsche-speak, was originally used for the 1968 911 T, but now is a trim level that designates lightweight, affordable performance, particularly emphasizing handling dynamics.

To this end the new Macan T’s suspension is lowered by 15 mm and comes standard with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), although take note that a further 10 mm drop can be achieved by opting for the brand’s adaptive air suspension. Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive is also standard, which is expected, but it receives more rear torque bias in the Macan T in order to improve at-the-limit cornering. Additional standard features include stiffer front anti-roll bars and specific chassis tuning that Porsche says is “the perfect suspension for the vehicle and powertrain.” Additionally, those opting for the Macan T’s available Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system will find that it’s been further retuned to enhance performance through tight, fast-paced curves.

Upgraded powertrain is identical to entry-level 2022 Macan

2023 Porsche Macan T
Here’s a badge you’ve never seen before… It dares you to keep up in the corners.

As part of its 2022 refresh, the base four-cylinder engine received a bump up from 248 horsepower to 261 hp, and 273 lb-ft of torque to 295 lb-ft, which translates into much stronger get-up-and-go. In fact, the model’s zero to 100 km/h sprint time has been reduced by 0.2 seconds, from 6.7 seconds to 6.5 in the new model, while base models upgraded with the Sport Chrono package see their sprint times drop from 6.4 seconds to 6.2. The Macan T comes standard with the Sport Chrono package, so it benefits from quicker acceleration, while its top track speed is limited to 232 km/h.

Along with the Sport Chrono package is a dash-top mounted stopwatch/lap timer, plus a convenient steering wheel-mounted Sport Response button that makes switching between drive modes quick and easy. This can be used to shorten the shift increments of its standard seven-speed dual-clutch automated Porsche’s Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission, the latter standard across the entire Macan line.

Speaking of alternative Macan models, those wanting more straight-line performance can choose the revised 348-hp 2022 Macan S that hightails it from zero to 100 km/h in only 4.8 seconds, while the latest 434-hp Macan GTS blasts from standstill to the same speed in just 4.5 seconds, which incidentally was the previous Macan Turbo’s sprint time.

Macan T slots in between base Macan and Macan S trims

2023 Porsche Macan T
Macan T script on the black aluminum door sill guards greets driver and passengers upon entry.

The Macan GTS costs a cool $85,500, by the way, which is fair value considering its performance and Porsche pedigree, while the Macan S will set owners back a much more affordable $70,600. The new Macan T will fit right in between the S and base model, the latter of which starts at just $58,500, plus it benefits from the four-cylinder engine’s considerably lower running costs when it comes to fuel-efficiency. Currently we only have the base model’s numbers of 12.2 L/100km in the city, 10.2 on the highway and 11.3 combined, but these shouldn’t change in its transition to T trim, whereas the 2022 Macan S is rated at 13.1 in the city, 9.6 on the highway and 11.5 combined, and GTS at 13.5 city, 10.5 highway and 12.2 combined.

2023 Porsche Macan T
The seats get Porsche crests on the headrests and grey pinstriped Race-Tex inserts.

Macan T pricing and detailed ordering info will be announced early this spring, but take note that all of the other models mentioned can currently be had with factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent. Check out CarCostCanada’s 2022 Porsche Macan Canada Prices page for more detailed info, plus the ability to price out each Macan trim including options on their configuration tool. CarCostCanada will also keep you apprised of any other manufacturer deals, like rebates, if you become a member, and you’ll always have access to dealer invoice pricing info, which can help you save thousands when negotiating your next new vehicle deal. In fact, CarCostCanada members are saving an average of $1,250 when purchasing the new Macan, impressive considering how tight inventories are these days, so be sure to check out how their system works and definitely download their free app from the Google Play store or Apple Store.

 

Dare forward: the new Porsche Macan T (0:54):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Porsche

With a focus on having 25 electrified models in its lineup as early as next year, half of which will be fully electric, BMW is wasting no time putting its plans into action. Before we get too excited,…

BMW Canada confirms EV range for new i4 and iX electric sport sedan and SUV

2022 BMW i4 eDrive40
BMW has hit the electric road running with the all-new i4 based on the 4 Series Gran Coupe.

With a focus on having 25 electrified models in its lineup as early as next year, half of which will be fully electric, BMW is wasting no time putting its plans into action. Before we get too excited, however, not all of these BEVs will be sold into the Canadian market, evidenced by the German brand’s Chinese-made iX3 crossover SUV only being offered in China and Europe for the immediate future.

Nevertheless, Canada will be the recipient of BMW’s new 2022 i4 sport sedan and iX crossover SUV, the former joining the automaker’s D-segment-sized 4 Series family, and the latter positioned closer to the popular X5 crossover SUV, while both are based on the brand’s ultra-versatile Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform that underpins everything from the diminutive 2 Series to the executive-class 7, X7 and 8 Series models.

2022 BMW iX xDrive50
The iX, shown here in 2022 xDrive50 trim, is an all-electric crossover SUV sized similarly to the X5.

The i4, which utilizes the 4 Series Gran Coupe’s four-door liftback body style and starts at $54,990 (not including incentives or destination fees), will be available in two different trims, including the eDrive40 and M50 xDrive. The former uses a single rear-wheel drive (RWD) electric motor good for 335 horsepower, while the latter, which starts at $72,990, combines both front and rear motors for all-wheel drive (AWD) and makes a total of 516 horsepower. Both models come fitted with the same 83.9-kWh battery.

As for performance and range, BMW claims the i4 eDrive40 is capable of 340 km on a single full charge, but not if you’re constantly testing its 5.7-second zero to 100 km/h sprint time, while the M50 xDrive will zip from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and can drive for approximately 510 km after completely recharging. That latter number gets the i4 close to the Tesla Model 3’s 576 km maximum range, a car the i4 has clearly in its sights.

2022 BMW i4 M50
The 516-hp i4 M50 hits 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and travels up to 510 km on a full charge.

Of note, the similarly sized yet more conservatively penned BMW 3 Series lineup continues forward into 2022 with its 330e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, offering an electrified alternative that the Texas-based tech company doesn’t.

Likewise, BMW Canada also offers the X3 xDrive30e PHEV, but unfortunately, as noted above, the iX3 won’t be giving Tesla’s Model Y a run for its money in Canada anytime soon. Moving up a size category, BMW also makes its 389-horsepower X5 xDrive45e PHEV available for 2022, once again offering an electrified alternative not available from Tesla.

2022 BMW iX xDrive50
The mid-size iX directly targets Tesla’s Model X.

The new iX targets Tesla’s Model X directly, however, and while it doesn’t offer gullwing doors for rear passengers, it does provide a similarly mid-sized two-row layout for up to five passengers and their gear. A total of three iX trims are dubbed xDrive40, xDrive50 and M60, each of which incorporate standard front and rear motors for AWD.

To be clear, the iX xDrive50 is the only trim available for 2022, which means the xDrive40 and M60 will arrive later this year as 2023 models. The iX xDrive40, which will start at $79,990, makes 322 horsepower, can sprint to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, and has a range of 340 km, whereas the current $89,990 xDrive50 makes 516 horsepower, can hit 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, and can be driven for up to 521 km before requiring a recharge. Lastly, the 610-horsepower M60 starts at $121,750, can scoot to 100 km/h from standstill in a scant 3.8 seconds, and can cover up to 450 km of ground before recharging.

2022 BMW iX xDrive50
Both i4 and iX models (iX shown) provide advanced interiors with all the latest tech (see the photo gallery for more photos).

What’s more, unlike smartphones, tablets, laptops and plenty of EVs that have been on the market over the past few years, BMW’s new BEVs don’t suffer from much if any battery degradation, which means the various claimed range estimates mentioned above will still hold up after years and even a decade’s use. In other words, the batteries in these new BMW EVs are designed to last the life of the vehicle, or more specifically up to 1,500 full charge cycles, which is enough for more than 500,000 km of driving.

CarCostCanada has full pricing and trim information for the 2022 i4 as well as 2022 and 2023 iX models, including all options that you can build out in their car configurator. On top of this, you’ll receive any available information regarding manufacturer rebates, factory financing and lease rate deals (both i4 and iX models currently have in-house financing/lease rates from 4.49 percent), plus you’ll receive dealer invoice pricing that can help you negotiate a better deal on any new vehicle. Find out how the CarCostCanada membership can benefit you, and be sure to download their free app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Speaking of money, BMW Canada is also claiming that both i4 trims are eligible for provincial zero-emission incentives in BC, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories, plus the base i4 eDrive40 qualifies for the federal iZEV rebate. Unfortunately, the iX’ higher base price disqualifies it from any provincial or national government rebates.

The new i4 and iX will start arriving at Canadian BMW dealerships next month.

BMW Ultimate – Reserve the BMW iX and i4 now! (0:15):

The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:06):

The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:15):

The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:30):

[ SPACE ] by BMW: BMW iX & i4 | BMW USA (1:12):

Introducing the BMW i4 M50: The All-Electric BMW M | BMW USA (2:54):

The First-Ever BMW i4 | The All-Electric Car | BMW USA (0:44):

The BMW Concept i4: New Electric Car | BMW USA (2:01):

The 2022 BMW i4 Models: BMW Review & Walk-Around | BMW USA (2:07):

Introducing the BMW iX | The All-Electric SAV | BMW USA (1:15):

The Electric Mood of the 2022 BMW iX | BMW USA (3:35):

Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 1 | BMW USA (2:11):

Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 2 | BMW USA (2:11):

Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 3 | BMW USA (2:25):

The All-Electric SAV: 2022 BMW iX Walk Around & Review | BMW USA (2:22):

Pioneer of a New Age: The Panoramic Eclipse Roof: The 2022 BMW iX | BMW USA (0:54):

Story credit: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: BMW

Think back to 2008. It’s not a year everyone will remember fondly, due to the housing crisis that was followed up by a short-erm financial freeze, plus numerous banking bailouts, and reasonable fear…

Toyota reveals long-awaited redesign of its full-size Sequoia SUV

2023 Toyota Sequoia Capstone
Toyota is giving its upcoming 2023 Sequoia a new top-tier Capstone trim line, and it looks to be very luxurious.

Think back to 2008. It’s not a year everyone will remember fondly, due to the housing crisis that was followed up by a short-erm financial freeze, plus numerous banking bailouts, and reasonable fear of economic woes ahead, but on the positive it was also an Summer Olympic year, held in Beijing, China (déjà vu all over again), and while that subject might be too political for some to dwell upon in an automotive story, 2008 was also the year that Conservative leader Stephen Harper eked out a minority up here in Canada, and Barack Obama was victorious south of the 49th. Even more momentous, it would take another month for Bitcoin to be introduced in January of 2009.

Why all the references to a past that’s now hardly recognizable from today’s world? Because that’s when Toyota’s full-size Sequoia SUV received its last major update. The first-generation Sequoia lasted a rather lengthy seven years, incidentally, and received its redesign with the advent of the second-gen Tundra, but today’s model, which will be replaced later this year, needed to wait a lot longer for its redesigned Tundra donor platform to arrive.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Limited
The new Sequoia will be available in five trims, including this mid-range Limited model.

Amazingly, the first-generation Venza was new that year too, as was the tiny Scion iQ (remember Scion?). The iQ’s been off the market for seven years already, and, after a three-year hiatus the Venza was wholly renewed for 2020, but the Sequoia soldiered on unchanged. It’ll be 14 years old when it arrives later this year as a 2023 model, but from what we can see here, the long wait has not been in vain.

After all, it looks similar to the new Tundra that’s received plenty of praise for its brash, bold styling, or at least its headlamps and the basic outline of its grille do. The new Sequoia’s grille is more restrained, and I think the better for it. It pulls cues from the Tacoma, of course, as well as the latest RAV4, no bad thing either, while sharing visual ties to the Highlander and new Corolla Cross as well. We can guess this look hints at the new 4Runner’s design approach too, an even more important SUV from a sales perspective, and one we’ll see in redesigned form soon.

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro
Off-road enthusiasts will be most interested in the TRD Pro.

This said there’s nothing radically unexpected about the new Sequoia’s styling. It appears rugged and tough, yet clean and refined, while all the time being respectful of Toyota’s SUV lineage. The hood domes nicely at centre, and either features cool looking matte plastic, vent-like garnishes on its outer rear edges when upgraded to “TRD PRO” trim, complete with trim designation, or gets a smaller chromed “i FORCE MAX” engine plaque in the same spot for other models. Additional visual separation includes some chrome embellishment down each side of the new top-tier Capstone trim line, brightening the new Sequoia’s deeply sculpted flanks, while the SUV’s upright rear design certainly shouldn’t offend any traditional SUV lover’s tastes.

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro
TRD Pro models get some rugged styling details to make it stand out from the rest of the Sequoia crowd.

Speaking of the trims, a total of five include TRD Off-Road, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro and just-noted Capstone, the latter initially introduced with the new Tundra, and representing a more luxurious level above Platinum. First, congrats to Toyota for coming up with something more original than Limited and Platinum to designate fanciest trim, and second, this model really does appear to deliver on its near-premium promise.

The Sequoia Capstone provides a black and white motif inside, with plenty of higher-quality semi-aniline leather throughout, while Toyota has even improved soundproofing. Those familiar with the outgoing Sequoia will already know its most luxurious Platinum variant lacked some its rivals’ refinements, especially for an SUV in the $80k range. Pampering won’t be a problem in the new 2023 version, however, even in lesser trims that will likely go up in price from their current model’s $70k starting point.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Capstone
The Sequoia’s standard i-Force Max hybrid V6 makes 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque.

In the U.S., this new Sequoia effectively replaces the full-size Land Cruiser that was discontinued, so it had better deliver at a high level and be fully capable off-road. Certainly, Lexus’ redesigned LX, which once again is based on the Land Cruiser, will toe the line as far as full-size luxury utes go, but just like some wristwatch buyers would rather wear a dive watch bearing the famed Seiko name than lesser-known Grand Seiko (which is respected more for dressier timepieces), yet still want similar levels of finishing and movement accuracy/quality and are willing to pay premium prices for it, there are SUV buyers who’d more proudly own a Toyota-badged utility than one gussied up in Lexus duds. To that end, the off-road-oriented SUV industry is as much about heritage and respect as it is utility, but isn’t necessarily turned on by premium badging.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Limited
The new Sequoia can tow up to 9,000 lbs.

The i-Force Max engine noted a moment ago was also introduced with the Tundra, but in the pickup truck it’s an option, and with the Sequoia it comes standard. Interestingly, it’s a 3.5-litre V6 hybrid drivetrain, so, just like Toyota did with the aforementioned Venza and their newest Sienna minivan, it’s hybrid or the highway, so to speak. Of course, there may be additional options moving forward, but more likely a pure electric variant than anything without electrification. As it is, the Sequoia’s mill makes a substantive 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, and feeds its power down to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission, which includes the usual Eco, Normal and Sport drive modes.

The actual hybrid component is a generator motor positioned between the internal combustion portion of the drivetrain and gearbox, a tried and tested solution, so we should expect much improved fuel economy along with Toyota’s already legendary hybrid reliability and longevity.

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro
The Sequoia’s rear styling certainly shouldn’t offend.

With each trim basically set up with the same drivetrain capabilities, performance differences will come down to suspension options, whether optimized for handling and comfort or off-road prowess. All should provide enough stability and manoeuvrability to keep the engine power in check on fast-paced curving roadways, however, achievable via a combination of improved chassis design and rigidity, plus a new independent front suspension design and new rack-mounted electronic power steering system, which is said to enhance feel. A more advanced multi-link rear suspension has also been added to the mix, plus Sequoia owners can option their rigs out with an adaptive variable suspension setup, which adds Comfort, Sport S, Sport S+ and Custom settings to the Drive Mode Select system’s menu, and a height-adjustable air suspension with load leveling, which is especially helpful when lifting heavy items into the cargo area.

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro
A nicely outfitted interior, this one in TRD Pro trim, shows off a large 14-inch centre touchscreen.

Also impressive is the new Sequoia’s 9,000-lb (4,080-kg) towing capacity. This is almost 22-percent more than the current model, and therefore allows for much larger camp trailers and boats, which is a key reason that buyers buck up for larger utilities in the first place. Along with its upgraded tow rating, the Sequoia will utilize features shown first with the new Tundra when choosing its Tow Tech Package, such as Trailer Backup Guide that makes it easier to reverse with a trailer, and Straight Path Assist that, via the steering system, helps keep the trailer straight when backing up. Additionally, the power mirrors now include automatic extensions for seeing around the sides of wider loads.

Some additional features include standard heated front seats and a standard heatable steering wheel rim, Toyota’s proprietary breathable Softex leatherette, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch wheels, and the TSS 2.5 suite of convenience and safety features.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Capstone
Second-row seating looks spacious, plus this Capstone model features exclusive black and white semi-aniline leather upholstery.

An available 14-inch centre touchscreen improves the Sequoia’s digital experience, including a Panoramic View Monitor that makes parking easier, especially with a trailer, while a digital display rearview mirror is also available, as is a fully digital and very colourful driver’s display.

As for the Sequoia’s cabin layout, it comes with three rows including a bench for the second row, but can be optioned with second-row captain’s chairs. Additionally, the third row can slide back and forth up to 150 mm (6.0 in), plus provides reclining backrests, while Toyota provides a unique parcel shelf in the cargo area that covers those seatbacks when folded down, resulting in a totally flat load floor. For hauling taller items, the parcel shelf can be fitted back into the floor, or alternatively it can be raised higher to act as a cargo cover. Smart.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Capstone
A massive panoramic sunroof will come standard.

While it might take some time for the new Sequoia to catch on, Toyota is probably looking to its loyal 4Runner, Highlander, and to some extent, Tacoma owner base to fill order books. While news about the new 2023 Sequoia will create some excitement, the nameplate isn’t strong enough to pull many conquest buyers away from the big three, despite having been around since 2001. Toyota just hasn’t updated it enough to create any kind of long-term growth, and certainly hasn’t marketed much, other than featuring it on its retail website.

The result has been slow, but steady sales. The 418 units sold into Canada through 2021 was less than half of its all-time Canadian high of 912 deliveries in 2010. The numbers remained just above or just below 700 per year until 2018, before dipping downward over the last few years. In case you were wondering, the Nissan Armada, which is the Sequoia’s most obvious challenger, only sold 413 units in 2010, yet, due to a major second-generation redesign (that’s really a global-market Patrol, the full-size Land Cruiser’s main rival in other markets), saw its deliveries rise to a high of 1,435 units in 2018, before falling down to Sequoia levels for the last three years.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Limited
The third row (shown in Limited trim) offers reclining backrests and fore and aft sliding adjustability.

Of course, neither set of numbers would cause a carmaker to invest the necessary money to develop and market an all-new model, which should make us Canadians grateful to our friends south of the border that have 10 times the purchasing pool. To be clear, while we were selling just over 400 Sequoias here in Canada, the U.S. market delivered 22,815. Even that number would have to increase to make a business case viable, but there’s a lot of potential upside when looking at the rest of the full-size SUV market.

Last year it totaled 21,999 units in Canada and 388,294 in the U.S., and General Motors walked away with almost three quarters of Canada’s full-size SUV deliveries, at 15,307 units, plus a staggering 275,421 new buyers in the States. GMC’s Yukon was number one in Canada’s market with 8,338 examples sold, its two body-style line beating both the Chevy Tahoe (4,590) and Suburban (2,379) by a wide margin, while Ford’s Expedition ended up second from a model perspective, with 4,878 individual deliveries. While all this is good for GM and Ford, the new Sequoia could slice off a larger section from that lucrative pie.

2023 Toyota Sequoia Limited
A height-adjustable cargo shelf expands into a completely flat load floor.

Helping Toyota’s cause is the highest retained value in the Canadian Black Book’s “Full-size Crossover-SUV” category, plus the top podium in the “Large SUV/Crossover” category for Vincentric’s Best Value in Canada Awards. The Sequoia also topped J.D. Power and Associate’s 2021 Initial Quality Study, which doesn’t hurt matters. It almost makes a person want to buy the outgoing Sequoia, which is still available with factory leasing and financing rates from 2.99 percent. Check out CarCostCanada for details, plus find out how accessing dealer invoice pricing could you save thousands off retail, plus remember to download their free app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

The new Sequoia will be available this summer, with orders starting sooner. Contact your local Toyota dealer for more info.

 

2023 Toyota Sequoia Overview | Toyota (7:07):

2023 Toyota Sequoia | Undeniable Capability, Unmistakable Presence | Toyota (2:17):

Story credit: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Toyota

Honda is calling 2022 the “Year of the Crossover,” partially due to 2021 being the year of their 11th-generation Civic, but more specifically because of two very important upcoming SUV releases. Top…

Honda teases a larger, sportier looking 2023 HR-V

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Honda has released two artist’s renderings of their next-gen HR-V subcompact crossover SUV, and we like what we see.

Honda is calling 2022 the “Year of the Crossover,” partially due to 2021 being the year of their 11th-generation Civic, but more specifically because of two very important upcoming SUV releases. Top of the list will be a complete redesign of Honda’s best-selling CR-V, expected later this year as a 2023 model, but the smaller 2023 HR-V that’s teased here in two artist’s renderings, is at least as critical for its entry-level gateway position.

The subcompact crossover SUV class has gained a lot of traction in recent years, growing from just eight models in 2010, to a shocking 27 now, and while the current HR-V is no longer the segment’s top-seller, it’s done very well for a design that’s been around for almost a decade with only one mid-cycle refresh.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
The new HR-V’s front end gets a sportier grille, more conventional LED headlamps, and Acura RDX-like corner vents for a very clean, sharp design.

To be clear, the HR-V arrived to the Canadian market in June of 2015, but it was already two years old and in its second-generation. Amazingly, despite arriving halfway through the year, it managed second in sales for the category, only beaten by Kia’s Soul, while it narrowly missed the top spot by just 301 units in 2016. Calendar year 2017 saw the HR-V rise right up to the top with 14,149 deliveries, but that triumph was quickly quelled when Nissan’s ultra-affordable Qashqai hit the streets in 2018, followed by the current sales-leading Hyundai Kona that sold a whopping 25,817 units in 2019, plus 31,733 in 2020 (despite the health crisis). What’s more, even though a microchip shortage caused calamity through last year’s auto production, the Kona nearly equaled 2020 results with a total of 31,101 units down Canadian roads in 2021.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Focusing in on the new HR-V’s grille design shows an aggressive shape almost Ford Mustang-like in shape, that’s filled with a large honeycomb-pattern mesh insert.

Comparatively, the aging HR-V placed sixth in Canada’s subcompact crossover segment last year, with 11,616 deliveries, allowing it to narrowly edge out the smaller Hyundai Venue that found 11,548 buyers, plus the Mazda CX-30 that managed a strong 11,407 unit-sales. Additionally, it fell marginally behind Nissan’s Qashqai that overtook its Japanese rival with 11,972 examples sold. The second-place Subaru Crosstrek attracted more subcompact SUV buyers than the HR-V as well, with 23,342 unit-sales, while the third-ranking Nissan Kicks did likewise with 18,750 deliveries. Finally, the Kia Seltos managed fourth thanks to 14,436 new owners in 2021. While it might appear as if HR-V sales are much below average, keep in mind that it still outsold 19 mainstream volume-branded subcompact SUV competitors, which is no small feat.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Here’s a closer look at the LED headlight clusters.

A much better HR-V story gets told south of our border, mind you, where Honda was able to sell a staggering 137,090 units last year, which is almost 10,000 more than the U.S. subcompact SUV segment’s next-best-selling Crosstrek. Exactly how they upped year-over-year sales by more than 63 percent in 2021 is anyone’s guess outside of the brand’s inner circle, and it wasn’t only because the model took a slight dive in 2020. In fact, sales were up more than 38 percent from 2019, but it may have come down to available microchips in a market that made many vehicles hard to get.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Do you like the C-shaped corner vents? Might these look better on a possible Acura ADX variant?

Being that the second-generation HR-V was based on the back of the now discontinued (in North America) entry-level Fit hatchback, it was always much more accommodating than its diminutive dimensions let on. Just like the Fit, the HR-V boasts an extremely low cargo floor, plus an ultra-flexible 60/40-split rear “Magic Seat” that comes with backrests that fold down in the traditional way for carrying larger cargo loads, plus lower cushions that flip upwards, pickup truck style, for stowing taller items on the second-row passenger compartment’s floor. The innovative packaging allows it to compete with larger subcompact models like the Qashqai, Crosstrek, Seltos, CX-30 and new Toyota Corolla Cross, despite being externally sized more closely to the Kona, Kicks and Toyota C-HR. This makes it significantly larger than a Venue, incidentally, the smallest crossover currently available in our market.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
The new HR-V’s rear design looks very attractive, while pulling on plenty of Honda styling cues.

If you happen to follow global automotive news you might already realize Honda debuted the updated Japanese Domestic Market version of the HR-V in 2021. It’s named Vezel in Japan, while the same SUV replaced the first-generation HR-V in Europe. That new model features an identical 2,610 mm (102.8 in) wheelbase as the outgoing model and our current HR-V, plus approximately the same overall length of 4,330 mm (170.5 in), the previous generation spanning 4,295 to 4,335 mm (169.1 to 170.7 in) from nose to tail depending on markets and trims. It’s just 20 mm (0.8 in) wider too, at 1,790 mm (70.5 in), and slightly lower overall at 1,580 to 1,590 mm (62.2 to 62.6 in) when compared to 1,605 to 1,610 mm (63.2 to 63.4 in) for the previous model, the latter difference likely dependant on tire choices.

This said, our second-generation HR-V (the third-generation globally) will be North American-specific and therefore won’t necessarily share the Japanese/European model’s platform. Instead, there’s a greater chance we’ll see it riding on a version of Civic/Insight and CR-V underpinnings, not to mention the new Acura Integra (a.k.a. ILX), which means it should receive a stronger powertrain, plus possibly the option of a sportier and/or fuel-friendly hybrid model too, as well as the continuation of Honda’s Real Time all-wheel drive.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Here’s a close-up look at the LED taillight clusters.

Currently, our 2022 HR-V is available with front- and all-wheel drivetrains, while employing Honda’s 1.8-litre inline four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) across the line. The engine is good for 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque no matter the trim, and as verified by the HR-V’s continued popularity it’s been potent enough for most peoples’ needs.

Probably more important than performance in this class is efficiency, and to that end today’s HR-V gets a claimed five-cycle rating of 8.4 L/100km in the city, 7.0 on the highway and 7.8 combined with FWD, plus 8.8 city, 7.5 highway and 8.2 combined with AWD, and lastly 9.1, 7.7 and 8.5 respectively with the sportier AV7 version of the same transmission, which makes it fairly stingy for the segment.

2023 Honda HR-V Teaser
Would you be more interested in a future HR-V if it looks as aggressive as these drawings?

It’s difficult to say if Honda will be able to maintain the second-generation’s miserly ways with a larger 2.0-litre powertrain if incorporated into the design, especially considering the subcompact SUV will also grow in size and weight, but that 200-cc larger engine is rated at 7.7 L/100km city, 6.0 highway and 6.9 combined in the 2022 Civic Sedan, which also uses a CVT and FWD, so there’s no reason to think it will be much thirstier in a slightly taller crossover. That engine also puts out a much more suitable 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, which should more than make up for the renewed 2023 HR-V’s size and weight gain.

Other possibilities include a hybrid variant, at least in markets where Honda can make a viable business case for selling one. Unfortunately, infinitesimal Insight sales in Canada, due to higher pricing than electrified competitors, plus no CR-V Hybrid availability at all, make it appear that moving large numbers of hybrids hasn’t been Honda Canada’s priority in recent years, a shame considering how well it once did with the Civic Hybrid.

2021 Honda Vezel/HR-V
This is the 2021 Honda Vezel, still called HR-V in Europe. Just right or too bland?

Still, it only makes sense the Japanese brand will eventually want to put forth a serious hybrid or electric challenger North of the 49th (Accord Hybrid aside). After all, despite our relatively small population, Canada remains the 13th largest automotive market globally. If Honda does choose to sell a hybrid variant into North America, they’d have the option of the 129-horsepower electrified drivetrain currently offered to European HR-V customers, or the 151-hp setup provided in our Insight sedan, the latter probably more suitable to buyers in our market.

All said, it’s impossible to know if a larger HR-V will return more sales than the current model. Of course, redesigns normally produce an immediate spike in activity, but being that we have so many brands selling multiple models into this class, and the sales results of their smaller and larger models vary dramatically, we need to believe that Honda has based its decision to produce a larger HR-V on extensive market research, because changing up their highly successful subcompact SUV formula poses a significant risk. What’s more, if Honda isn’t able to integrate its versatile Magic Seat system into the new design, usable cargo space may not increase. Loyal HR-V owners will be collectively hoping they do.

2021 Honda Vezel/HR-V
The Vezel looks nice from behind, but not as eye-catching as the HR-V rendering Honda provided earlier this week.

When it comes to styling, what we can gather from the artist’s rendering is a vastly more appealing crossover SUV, even discounting the added width, tire/wheel sizes and other visual tricks artists play when rendering prototype vehicles. The upcoming HR-V appears to be a sportier, tougher looking crossover, with an attractive new grille design that seems to frown instead of smile. This more menacing theme has worked well for Toyota trucks and SUVs, while the C-shaped glossy-black corner vents are so similar to the outgoing Acura RDX’ (pre-facelift) that one has to assume we’ll also be getting a spin-off for Honda’s luxury brand. An ADX with the Civic’s optional 180-horsepower turbocharged engine, anyone? How about an optional 200-hp Type S? Its powertrain could easily be pulled from the Civic Si. That would give the Lexus UX a run for its money.

2021 Honda Vezel/HR-V
This is the 2021 Vezel’s interior design, which shows some interesting details around the centre stack, but not much creativity elsewhere.

The rendering’s rear styling shows enlarged taillight clusters bearing some semblance to the current model’s design, not to mention a respectful nod to past Civic models, particularly the eighth-generation sedan. It’s also easy to see additional Acura influences on the backside of the new HR-V, so it will be interesting to find out how the finished product looks.

As for the interior, small crossover SUVs are often where automakers let their proverbial hair down in order to have some fun. Just the same, Honda did no such thing with the domestic-market Vezel, which gets a fairly staid, conservative dash design, featuring only the slightest bit of creativity around the centre stack (see the gallery for photos).

In the end, these two renderings only serve to tell us that an “all-new HR-V will launch in North America this year,” further promising to be both “sporty and versatile,” or so says the two-line press release. Thankfully, we shouldn’t have to wait very long to find out.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Honda

Kia has gone from a lineup of smooth, sleek cars and utilities, to embracing an edgier, sportier design language that’s all about forward thought and has little to do with hanging onto the past. Just…

Kia reveals edgy new 2023 Sportage in its home market

2023 Kia Sportage
Kia is getting especially edgy with its upcoming Sportage, transforming today’s ovoid model into a dramatically angled piece of rolling modern art.

Kia has gone from a lineup of smooth, sleek cars and utilities, to embracing an edgier, sportier design language that’s all about forward thought and has little to do with hanging onto the past.

Just take a look at today’s K5 (née Optima) mid-size family sedan, or the premium-level Stinger sport sedan, not to mention the Seltos subcompact crossover SUV, the always funky Soul, all-new Sorento mid-size SUV, rugged looking Telluride full-size SUV, and the recently renewed Carnival (née Sedona) mid-size van, while the new K3 will soon mix it up in the compact sedan class when it replaces today’s Forte. Each new Kia design pushes the mainstream volume brand to sharper, wedgier extremes, and now it’s the Sportage compact crossover SUV’s turn to transform from ovoid to edgy.

2023 Kia Sportage
A narrow greenhouse makes the new Sportage looking long and low.

At first glance, the 2023 Sportage appears like Kia’s most aggressive attempt to push that design envelope yet. If the current Sportage seemed to pull inspiration from Porsche’s Cayenne when introduced in 2016, the creators of this fifth-generation SUV were tapping into the genes of Lamborghini’s Urus, or at least Audi’s RS Q8.

This makes sense considering the president and chief design officer of the entire Hyundai Motor Group is one Peter Schreyer, previously responsible for Audi’s TT (and A3, A4, A6, etc.), Volkswagen’s New Beetle (and Golf, Eos, etc.), a slew of Hyundai and Genesis models, plus everything Kia has put to market since 2008 when he took over the design department. No wonder Kia has been producing such great looking models over the past decade.

2023 Kia Sportage
The rear design is more conventional, but hardly boring.

The new Sportage is designed to turn heads, with a futuristic front fascia that’ll have you searching to find the headlights. They’re tiny LEDs in complex clusters set within two boomerang-shaped LED driving lights, both of which bookend the wide gloss-black grille positioned below a set of narrow, horizontal nostril-like openings. It’s a radical design that nevertheless should be pleasing to a large swath of SUV buyers that are currently wanting something sporty yet practical to trade up to from their less-appealing cars.

From profile, the new Sportage features a lot of side sculpting on the door panels, with a narrow greenhouse up top, for added visual length, and some really attractive detail around the lower rocker panels, giving the SUV an exposed structural look that lightens its overall presence.

2023 Kia Sportage
The headlamps are tiny LEDs integrated within a lighting cluster surrounded by large boomerang-shaped LED driving lights.

While the new Sportage looks more conventional from the rear, its body-wide taillight cluster lends to a feeling of width, with a thinness at its mid-section that almost makes it seem like it was stretched into place. All of that delicate detail is supported by a meaty rear bumper section that’s a visual extension from the just-noted blackened rockers, continuing upward to encompass two-thirds the SUV’s backside, and capped off by angular metal-look trim that mirrors a similar treatment on the aforementioned rockers and lower front fascia, the latter surrounding a set of LED fog lamps. The edgy treatment continues over to the sizeable alloy wheels, which are machine-finished with glossy black pockets in order to make them an intrinsic part of the design.

2023 Kia Sportage
Angular LED taillights are visually tied together by a narrow light strip at centre.

“Reinventing the Sportage gave our talented design teams a tremendous opportunity to do something new; to take inspiration from the recent brand relaunch and introduction of EV6 to inspire customers through modern and innovative SUV design,” said Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center. “With the all-new Sportage, we didn’t simply want to take one step forward but instead move on to a different level in the SUV class.”

Kia’s new design language, which they call “Opposites United”, continues into the cabin where the uniquely shaped air vents and horizontal instrument panel trim combine like parentheses to highlight the massive dual-display primary gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen within.

2023 Kia Sportage
The rear bumper gets some aggressive metallic design details to differentiate it from others in the segment.

The single-screen layout follows a driver display design that both Kia and the namesake brand of its parent company Hyundai have been utilizing in their most recent models, which incorporates some of the most advanced tech in the industry, particularly rear-facing camera monitors that automatically provide a rearward view down either side of the vehicle when using the turn signal.

A row of switchgear follows the horizontal theme just below, integrating a nicely organized dual-zone automatic climate control panel at the mid-point, while a gently sloping piano black lacquered centre console is filled with an engine start/stop button, a rotating gear selection controller, a drive mode selector, and various other driving related buttons to the left, plus switches for the heated and cooled front seats and heatable steering wheel rim to the right. A wireless charging pad is likely fitted under the lidded compartment just ahead of this cluster of controls, along with USB ports and other connectivity/charging interfaces for personal devices.

2023 Kia Sportage
A two-in-one driver display/infotainment touchscreen is visually held in place by a set of parentheses-shaped air vents.

“When you see the all-new Sportage in person, with its sleek but powerfully dynamic stance, and when you sit inside the detailed-oriented cabin with its beautifully detailed interior and first-class materials, you’ll see we have achieved those goals and set new benchmarks,” added Habib. “In the all-new Sportage, we believe you can see the future of our brand and our products.”

Kia hasn’t shown any other details, such as its front and rear seating or the cargo compartment, but capacities should be similar to the new Hyundai Tucson that shares its underpinnings, and that compact crossover SUV has grown in size from its predecessor, now measuring 4,605 mm (181.3 inches) from nose to tail, which makes it 155 mm (6.1 in) longer than before, with a 2,751 mm (108.3 in) wheelbase that’s grown by 86 mm (3.4 in), plus it’s around half an inch (12-13 mm) wider and taller than the SUV it replaces.

2023 Kia Sportage
Kia should continue to lead the compact SUV segment in features for money spent.

The Sportage has long shared mechanical components with the Tucson as well, so we can expect a version of the same 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which makes 190 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque in the compact Hyundai. The Tucson utilizes an eight-speed automatic transmission across its entire trim line too, which should be the only gearbox used in the Sportage as well, while Hyundai’s compact SUV provides a front-wheel drive train in lower priced models, plus optional all-wheel drive.

We can expect more details closer to the new Sportage launch, which should take place sometime next year. All the usual trims should be available, as well as an off-road oriented X-Line version, plus a new hybrid-electric based on the latest 2022 Tucson Hybrid.

2023 Kia Sportage
The sloping lower console is filled with advanced driver controls, including a rotating dial for selecting gears.

For the time being, Kia is offering the latest 2022 Sportage with up to $750 in additional incentives, as well as $2,500 off of 2021 models, while CarCostCanada members are averaging savings of $2,361. Check their 2022 and 2021 Kia Sportage Canada Prices pages for all the details, including complete trim pricing with all available options and colours.

Also, learn how the CarCostCanada system works so you can save big on your next new vehicle purchase too, by accessing manufacturer rebate information, factory financing and leasing deals, and especially dealer invoice pricing. What’s more, remember to download the free CarCostCanada app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store, so you can have all of this valuable information on your device when you need it most.

Story by Trevor Hofmann

Photos by Kia