Dear John: Premium compact sedans

Story by John LeBlanc The “good things come in small packages” idiom can certainly apply to the burgeoning premium compact sedan segment. The idea of automakers offering what was once considered “big car” safety, convenience and performance features in a compact four-door — and charging a hefty premium for it — is catching on with […]

Comparo: 2013 Acura ILX Dynamic vs. 2013 Buick Verano Turbo

Story by John LeBlanc At one time, there were just compact cars. Then there were small and luxurious or premium compact cars. Now we have the niche-within-the-niche premium sports compact cars, a segment set to explode with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz moving downmarket.

First Drive & Video: 2013 Acura ILX

By John LeBlanc SCOTTSDALE, Arizona – Honda’s premium Acura brand is in the midst of one of its largest product makeovers ever. And one of Acura’s most important new vehicles for the Canadian market is the new 2013 Acura ILX compact sedan, the brand’s latest entry in a segment it virtually created almost two decades […]

2012 Toronto: Top 10 Must-sees

We’re about one week away from the doors opening on this year’s Toronto auto show. If you’re planning on attending, here are my ten “must-sees” from my Toronto Star Wheels article. Full story after the jump.