First Drive: 2015 Audi A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI Quattro

Story and photo by John LeBlanc COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Since its debut four years ago, the success of Audi’s stylish Audi A7 Sportback proves that even luxury car buyers will buy hatchbacks. So far in 2014, A7 Sportback sales in Canada are up 57%, with total sales nearing that of the more established and traditional […]

Are you ready for a front-wheel-drive BMW?

By John LeBlanc When the front-wheel-drive, Mini Countryman arrived for 2010, it may have not been obvious that at some point, parent BMW — a company that had built its reputation on high-performance, rear-wheel-drive cars — would eventually launch a small, FWD car of its own. But the new BMW Concept Active Tourer Outdoor is […]

Dear John: Hybrid sedans

By John LeBlanc When they first came out over a decade ago, gasoline-electric — or “hybrid” — cars definitely saved more fuel compared to their gas-only counterparts. But their low-volume sales numbers meant automakers were obligated to sell hybrids at premium prices. That’s no longer the case.

Road Test: 2013 BMW X1 xDrive35i

Story and photos by John LeBlanc Despite questionable styling, a less-than-premium interior and minimal utility, the BMW X1 has become one of the German brand’s best sellers in Canada. And although it’s one of BMW’s less-established models, last year, the compact crossover trailed only the iconic 3 Series and popular X3 crossover in overall sales. […]

The new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette’s amazing fuel economy comes at a cost

By John LeBlanc General Motors’ Chevrolet brand is proudly boasting that its new, seventh-generation 2014 Corvette Stingray is “the most fuel efficient sports car on the market”. And the numbers don’t lie: no other new vehicle generates 455 horsepower and a 29 miles per U.S. gallon highway rating. But proving the old axiom that “nothing […]

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