Road Test: 2014 Kia Cadenza Premium

Story and photos by John LeBlanc The all-new 2014 Cadenza is a great example of the difference between a brand’s reality and its perception. For most new car buyers, the Kia badge on the Cadenza screams mainstream — as in Chevrolet or Toyota. But in truth — and based on its styling, performance, level of […]

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: 2014 Chevrolet Impala versus 2013 Toyota Avalon

Story and photos by John LeBlanc It’s been more than 50 years since large sedans were the go-to choice for family transportation in Canada. Since then, the introduction of the minivan, the sports utility vehicle (SUV) and the multi-functional crossover utility vehicle (CUV) have meant big four-door sedans sales have been limited to the high-end […]

Fuel Economy Comparo: Kia Optima Hybrid vs. Toyota Camry Hybrid

Story by John LeBlanc Feel free to thank the rising price of fuel and stricter government-mandated fuel economy ratings for today’s variety of new gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles. Once limited to being quirky or small when they arrived in the late 1990s, hybrids now come in all shapes and sizes.

First Drive: 2014 Ford Fiesta

Story and photos by John LeBlanc OTTAWA — After being re-introduced to Canada for 2011, the Ford Fiesta family of four-door subcompact hatchbacks and sedans is getting a mid-cycle refresh for 2014. As usual, you’ll find the typical exterior styling tweaks and interior refinements. The big news, however, for Ford’s smallest car is a pair […]

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