Best 2011 Family Car between $21k and $30k

By John LeBlanc As the new 2012 models start to infiltrate new car showrooms, here are my top picks of remaining 2011 models that may still be lingering on dealer lots:

Top 10s: New Cars for Divorced Dads

By John LeBlanc You don’t have to check the online dating ads to know that the rate of divorce in Canada is much higher than it was in the late 1960s. According to the federal department Statistics Canada’s figures, in 2003 there were 224 divorces for every 100,000 people in this country, roughly four times […]

2010’s Top SUVs/CUVs under $50k

By John LeBlanc Every year, the Toronto Star’s Wheels section asks its contributors to scratch together a shortlist of what they think are the top new cars—as in what’s available in showrooms, not just “new” for 2011—in various segments. Here are my picks for the Top SUVs/CUVs under $50k:

Brand-Aid: Does Ford really need Lincoln?

By John LeBlanc Despite being the darling of the auto-world media right now (NO BANKRUPTCIES!! NO BAILOUT MONEY!! NO STICKY GAS PEDALS!!), Ford has a problem child: its name is Lincoln. Ah, yes, Lincoln. Remember? Ford’s luxury brand? Don’t feel ashamed if you’ve forgotten.

Top 2010 Utility Rides between $35 and $60k

Story and photos by John LeBlanc AUDI Q5 The Q5 is a hot-selling product in the hot-selling luxury compact crossover segment – and with good reason. Based on the Audi A4 sedan, it offers the slightly taller ride height and five-door utility customers are looking for today, but with few driving compromises.