Review by Veeno Dewan.
The new 2024 Kia EV9 inhabits that rarified air of All- Electric three -seat row SUVs that can seat 6 people in an emission free vehicle. The EV9 is new for this year with typical Kia design language; neat detailing, cool lighting, and complex shaped front and rear fascias. It is technologically advanced and has features such as over the -air updates capability, as well as the ability to use your phone as the key. Its large battery can be used as an onboard generator power supply for electrical items with a household three prong connector. Bess of all the EV9 has three rows of seating and can seat 6 in comfort. For Canada there are three EV9 models to choose from, with either single or dual motor drive and two different battery sizes. The rear-wheel drive EV9 Light starts at $59,995; and has the small 76.1 kilowatt-hour battery and a rear-mounted motor that delivers 215 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque and a driving range of 370-km. The twin motor RWD Wind comes in at $62,995; the all-wheel drive Land starts at $64,995; the Land AWD Premium rings in at $74,995; and the top-of-the-line Land AWD GT-Line as tested. ($78,995,) has the larger 99.8k-Wh battery has dual-motors with ample power at 379 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Electric Driving Range on my tester showed 512 km of driving range! Exclusive-to-Canada Terrain mode is an additional feature for our northern climes.
Technology features are high on this flagship EV. These include: fourth generation battery technology, connected car navigation cockpit, a new user interface, ergomotion driver relaxation seat, and column mounted shift by wire technology. Also added is ECU over the air updates, dedicated 5-inch HVAC display touch screen, fingerprint module for custom driver settings, digital lighting grille, hidden type touch buttons, remote smart park assist 2 extendable centre rear console and much more.
In terms of charging, the Kia EV9 features the latest 800-volt electric architecture that allows it to charge at speeds as fast as 350 kW. If you can find a fast charger of this power you can expect a milestone 10 to 80 per cent in 20 minutes with the smaller batteries, and 24 minutes with the larger 99.8-kWh battery. Charging time for Level 2 outlets is – six to hours to 8 hours dependent on battery size with 10 to 80 per cent at 350-kilowatt DC fast charger – 20 – 24 minutes .
Interior wise, the EV9 has an upscale sleek looking cabin, luxurious, high quality and refined. The choice of trim and materials is first class and packed with high-end convenience and technology features. The super comfortable ergomotion front seats that have extra recline and extendable ottoman – style footrest. Meanwhile the stunning glass cockpit instrument panel has twin 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment displays under a single glass panel, touch, haptic and sensory controls.. The second-row seats also has lower rests for all four captain’s chairs, with minivan-style armrests, walk-through ability to the third row and a slide-out tray with storage underneath. All four front seats are cooled and heated, with electric second-row adjustment and full walk-through accessibility to the third row. Speaking of the third row – as with all third-row seats, it is fine for small adults or children; a squeeze for full size adults, but bearable on short trips, Still a third row is always a boon- ask any family!
On the road the EV9 rides smooth and quiet as you would expect from an EV. The heavy batteries add stability and heft that is confidence inducing. The larger battery offers 389-horsepower and drivers are rewarded with quick acceleration off the line. The 0 to 96 kilometres an hour dash is a very respectable five seconds. Power is abundant thanks to the dual motor set up and a smart front axle decoupler system that under certain driving conditions allow for a ‘coasting’ mode, which Kia says can save up to eight per cent in range saving. Canadian models, include a Terrain select system for Snow, Mud and Sand. Handling for the EV9 is relaxed and direct and the all-wheel drive performs very well. Properly equipped, the EV9 with twin motors and the larger battery can tow an impressive 5,000 pounds, while the single motor trim can tow up to 1,653 pounds.
To sum up, the 2024 Kia EV9 is the SUV many people have been waiting for – offering decent EV driving range, and most crucially three rows of seats in a premium package. I envision this EV9 to be an enormous success for the progressive forward thinking and ever improving Kia brand. Highly recommended for families everywhere.
2024 Kia EV9 – Priced from $59,995 – $78,995 plus PDE, freight and taxes.
More info at www.kia.ca

Review by Veeno Dewan

The2024 CX-30 is a compact CUV offering from Mazda. Its is a cool looking thing with Mazda’s Kodo design language and sleek, muscular lines. New for this model years is the use 2.5L four-cylinder engine for the GX model and the introduction of a new Suna Edition with exclusive Zircon Sand Metallic paint and Terracotta interior trim accents. The GS Luxury Package adds a 10.25-inch centre screen with connectivity; and the GT version now has a wireless charger, off-road navigation, two Type-C USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Base CX-30’s come with a 2.0-liter 155-horse power four – cylinder under the hood. The GX, GS, and GT trims use a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque and includes fuel-saving cylinder deactivation. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the rim lines Optional on the GT is a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder rated at 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular-grade gasoline, and at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gas. All CX-30 models are all-wheel drive. Pricing ranges from $28,150 to $40,700 The price for the GT AWD is $37,550 MSRP. The Suna Turbo AWD 6AT is the priciest at $40,700 plus Freight and PDI at $2,095.
Our 2024 GT version came with standard equipment featuring: SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine, SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Drive Selection switch, paddle shifters, G-Vectoring Control Plus, 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, push button start, Mazda Connect with 8.8-inch display, HMI commander, rear-view camera, power moonroof, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather-trimmed upholstery, 10-way power driver seat (includes power lumbar support), and full LED exterior lighting. Also added was navigation system, Bose Audio system w/ 12 speakers, automatic climate controls, and advanced keyless entry.
Safety features included: Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Pedestrian Detection, High Beam Control, Forward Obstruction Warning, Smart City Brake Support, Smart Brake Support, Smart Brake Support Rear, Smart Brake Support Rear-Crossing, rear parking sensors, colour windshield-projected Active Driving Display.
The interior layout is as usual typical Mazda with its sports orientated neat, uncluttered design. There is a nice sporty gauge cluster and the dash is a of a multi-tier two tone design with an available black and brown contrasting trim that looks very cool. Slivers of brushed aluminum trim pieces add a very upmarket feel. The front seat are well designed with just the right amount of cushioning. Certain models do offer heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Mazda has also added a newly updated version of its infotainment system, using a high resolution 8.8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android.
Rear seating position is excellent as well with good headroom. However, legroom for adult passengers is a bit tight. Cargo capacity is a very useful 572L of space behind the rear seats, this increases with the back seats folded down. Rear cargo access is via a generously wide door and a low load floor to make it easier to place large and heavy items.
On the road, the CX-30 Turbo is a joy to drive. The addition of i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive ensures stability in all conditions. Meanwhile, the six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to all four wheels via Mazda’s i-Activ intelligent on-demand all-wheel-drive system. Acceleration is good on highways. Yes, additional power would be nice for more top end torque, and an eight or nine – speed transmission would give more flexible gearing, but nothing major here in terms of everyday driving.
The CX-3’s sport driving experience is enhanced by the Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system Plus, which reduces engine torque, and adjusts steering and throttle inputs to add slight weight on the front wheels to make the steering feel firmer and more direct. The result is sharpened handling during cornering, keeping understeer under control. The all-wheel-drive system offer superb traction by the way the CX-30 is able to achieve fuel consumption ratings of 10.5 L/100km city and 7.9L/100km highway.
Not a lot to complain about, If you are in the market for a sporty, fun- to drive smaller compact CUV – The CX-30 is worth taking a look at. Highly recommended.

2024 Mazda CX-30 GT Turbo: Price as tested: $40,1950 Including freight and PDE.
More info @www.mazda.ca

Review by Veeno Dewan
Land Rover’s Evoque CUV has been a major success story for the legendary British premium automaker. And it’s not hard to see why. The stunning exterior and overall packaging is still razor sharp after 12 years or so in production. It still looks amazing; taut, edgy, and dynamic. New for 2024, the Evoque now comes in a P250 trim powered by a 2,0L four-cylinder engine 246-hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. There is also a redesigned centre console with curved 11.4-inch display and minor tweaks to the front grille and headlamps. The transmission comprises of a nine-speed auto box and on-demand all-wheel drive, The as standard Terrain Response 2 system allows drivers to select one of several drive modes as well as an off-road Rock Crawl mode. All Evoque comes standard with leather upholstery, infotainment touchscreen, and navigation. The new infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Amazon Alexa capability. A head-up display, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Meridian premium audio system are all optional.
We tested a premium equipped 2024 Evoque P250 Dynamic HSE model priced at a base $62,550 model in a tasteful Osuni white paint and with a deep garnet/ebony leather wrapped interior The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque model comes in 3 trim levels and ranges in price from $57,600 to $62,550 MSRP. The entry-level, S P250 2.0L gasoline model starts at $57,600. The mid-range Dynamic SE P250 trim weighs in at $60,850. The premium model is the Dynamic HSE P250 as tested priced at $62,550. Freight and PDI is $1,950. Standard equipment on the HSE version includes full leather seats, heated front seats and 12-way/river, 10-way/r passenger adjustable seats. An Audiophile quality Meridian sound system and heated steering wheel is also standard spec.
Our HSE tester was fitted with an expensive $6,8000 worth of options including: Satellite Radio + HD Radio, 825-watt Meridian Surround system, 20” Black Style package, Head-Up Display, Panoramic roof, and Cold Climate Package. Also added was the Technology package and Dynamic handling package and much more. Upgrades in the HSE include an updated more opulent interior, a rear spoiler, aluminum trim, and a Dynamic drive mode.
The Evoque’s interior now has the impressive looking new centre console with a “floating” style , curved 11.4-inch screen with the excellent Pivi Pro infotainment system. Note that the high-tech dash has touch controls only, no hard buttons. The front cabin is pretty roomy although it gets tighter in the rear, given the compact dimensions. However, the finishing and all-round ambience is very nice. All seats of seats are comfortable and the materials used of all of a high quality. The small tapering rear windows are the price to pay for that dramatic unique slanted roofline. Cargo room behind the second-row measures is 472 litres. Fold all the seats down and it expands to 1,156 litres.
On the road, the new Evoque has a smooth ride and good handling. This is thanks to the transverse architecture design and stellar engineering. The Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a steady speed on highway cruising and ride wise, Adaptive Dynamics delivers the optimum balance between ride and control. Cornering is also helped along by Torque Vectoring control. Minor bumps and potholes are all easily dealt with thank to the pliable suspension. The Evoque’s all-wheel drive system is on a wide range of terrain.
Range Rover’s proven Terrain Response technology, which provides an automatic mode to the Terrain Response settings. This is part to the terrain- management system that matches the right programs modes for sand, snow, and mud and provides traction power to whichever wheel needs it on less than grippy surfaces. If you do need to do any serious low-speed off-roading, a super low crawl mode ensures you won’t get stuck. A high 8.3 inches of ground clearance, and decent approach and departure angles also enables the Evoque to climb over obstacles and ford streams and flooded roads with ease. Not much to complain about, apart from poor rear visibility being an issue along with a cramped rear interior.
In closing, he base and mid-range Evoque’s represent good value for money, whilst the pricier models and the top tier version offer more luxury and amenities if you can stretch to them. No matter which Evoque model you choose, British premium quality, superb off roading ability and badge bragging rights apply. Highly recommended if you lust after a Land Rover in your driveway.

2024 Land Rover EvoqueP250 Dynamic HSE : Price as tested $71,280 including options and delivery.
More info at landrover.ca

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The venerable Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is the go-to for affordable superbly capable 4×4 off roaders. With two and four-door models and convertible options, the Jeep is not only much loved, but its retro styling is also still winning customers. Over time, the Wrangler has morphed into a supreme performance off – roader with V6 and four-cylinder models, plus hardcore rock-crawling Rubicon versions that have extra ground clearance with off-ready tires and upgraded suspension. For 2024, Jeep continues with its new plug-in hybrid 4xe version of the Wrangler 4xe models in the Rubicon and Unlimited versions, with four doors, eight-speed automatic transmissions. There are two new trims (Sport S 4xe and Rubicon X)new wheel designs and new exterior and interior colours and refinement. Safety is upped with new structural side impact improvements, new standard side-curtain airbags and active and passive safety and security features. Ther is now as standard forward collision warning and standard advanced cruise control with automatic braking. An all-new instrument panel features an excellent 12.3-inch touchscreen utilizing Uconnect5 infotainment and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ther is also a new Jeep 4xe Power Box with four 120-volt 30-amp outlets to power external devices.

Jeep has played an ace with the introduction of the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4xe plug-in hybrid model. The new 4xe model leads the brand’s transition to electrification. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain comprises of a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine; and electrified motor/battery to produce a remarkable 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The 17.3-kWh lithium-ion battery can provide around 35 kilometres of all-electric driving when conditions are optimal before switching over to the gasoline engine automatically.
Other powertrain options include a non-hybrid 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with270 horses and 295 lb-ft of torque, The non-turbo 3.6L V6 offers 285 hp and 260 ft lb of torque. Ther is also a brutish 6.4L V8 with a mighty 470 horsepower. The V6 is available with a manual transmission; all other models make do with the automatic tranny.
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe model pricing ranges from $59,995 to $83,265 MSRP. The entry-level, Sport S model starts at $59,995 for the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 2.0L I-4 & 17.30-kWh & Lithium-Ion battery. The price for the mid-range Sahara trim is $68,270. The top Rubicon X is priced at $83,265. Freight and PDI is $2,095.
The as tested Wrangler Rubicon 4xe arrives with electric blue accents such as the blue tow hooks front and rear, “Rubicon” graphics and a tiny 4xe badge on the rear. There are still the usual high-performance off-road equipment such as: skid plates, rock rails, Rubicon.
A new available factory-installed 3,628 kg (8,000 lb) Warn winch for Wrangler Rubicon, along with an up to 100:1 crawl ratio and new Dana 44 HD Full Float solid rear axle that allows for tire upsizing and up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) maximum towing. Normal towing for other models including 4xe is 1,587 kg (3,500 lb). The interior is the normal Wrangler Rubicon affair with an upright windscreen and a retro, tough looking interior design theme. The battery pack does mean the rear seat sits higher, but it does fold flat, with just a slight decrease in cargo capacity.
On the road, the additional weight of the electric battery and motors doesn’t have much of an effect on the Wrangler 4xe’s on-road manners. The only give away is the eerie silent electric drive as the 4Xe drives and the jarring engine note when the gas engine kicks in. The ride is harsh on the off-road tires – Steering, ride, and handling will be familiar to those who own Wranglers – an acquired taste with wind and road noise, not the most predictable of handling and a bouncy ride, typical Jeep, and loving it! The 4xe E-Save button favours the gas engine to conserve battery power.
Of course, off—road capability is not harmed at all- the two-speed transfer case enables the 4xe to operate in rear-wheel drive, full- or part-time high-range four-wheel drive, or four-low.
Jeep have kind of knocked one out the park with s the Wrangler 4Xe PHEV- No compromise at all with legendary Jeep off-road performance and some added green credentials. Jeep is installing Jeep-branded Level 2 charge points at the trail heads of some key off-road destinations in the U.S. So, this shows the commitment Jeep have to electrification. Jeep says it will eventually add electrification to all North American models. Good on them. Nice work Jeep!
2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe PHEV priced from $59,995 – $84,215 plus options.
www.jeep.ca

By Veeno Dewan

The Mazda3 is an award-winning car much loved by Canadians for its sporty looks, refined interior, and sprightly performance, the Mazda3 arrives as either a hatchback or a sedan. This car is so good it has retaken the 2023 Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) award as a category winner in the Canadian Car of the Year awards the . as Best Small Car in Canada for 2023.
For 2024 changes include the introduction of a new Suna Edition, with available 10.25” infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay™ and engine and Android Auto™ connectivity. Technical upgrades include a revised Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, replacing the previous Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter engine. This upgrade now delivers 191 horsepower and an impressive 186 lb-ft of torque with either regular 87 octane or premium 93 octane fuel. There is also cylinder deactivation and fuel efficiency.
There is a large range of MAZDA3 models with a sedan and hatchback, turbo and non turbo models, standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and available i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) in select models The Skyactiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift mode and Drive Selection switch, FWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus is very smooth.. As standard is an 8.8-inch centre display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, push button start, remote keyless illuminated entry, rearview camera,
The Mazda3 and Mazda3 Sport GT Turbo are powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. With regular 87 octane fuel, the turbo engine has 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
We tested a new trim line called the Mazda3 Sport Suna Edition which arrives in fabulous looking Zircon Sand Metallic exterior colour with 18-inch black metallic finish wheels and gloss black door mirrors. Unique exterior styling elements include a black interior that features an exclusive Black/Terracotta, complete with exquisite Terracotta stitching. The Mazda 3 is among the models set to receive a Suna special edition for 2024. The new Suna (“Sand”) Zircon color is exclusive to the Suna versions. It is quite an eye-catching shade and drew lots of interesting looks.
Active and passive safety aids include Smart Brake Support Rear (SBS-R), Smart Brake Support Rear Crossing (SBS-RC), Front and rear parking sensors, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR. Also, on the safety front there is Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, windshield-projected colour Active Driving Display, and a host of other equipment. Our tester was priced at $40,895 including freight and PDE.
The interior is exemplary with a sporty, neat driver orientated cockpit. and good cabin packaging. I do like the exclusive look of the Suna interior with its pleasing color trim line. The ambience is premium all the way with quality as good as some entry -level high priced German cars. The dash features an 8.8-inch infotainment display situated higher up and set angled towards the driver. The “Commander” control knob on the center console, for the infotainment system is simple to use and quick in reaction. The cabin also features specially designed seats and ergonomics that make the driver feel as if they are at one with the car, the front cabin is roomy enough, although it’s a squeeze to fit three large adults in the back. Cargo capacity is rated at 566 liters (1,330 liters total with rear down.)
On the road, the 2024 Mazda3 offers smooth drive dynamics and an exceptionally quiet cabin, and it all carries an air of luxury befitting a much more expensive vehicle. A distinct advantage with its superior grip and well-balanced torque. The Mazda3 still remains fun, sporty, and engaging to drive. The 2.5-liter L4 Engine never runs out of steam and is a lively willing performer with smooth quick gear changes. Not a lot to complain about, fuel economy is rated at 10.1/100 km (city) / 6.5 /100 (highway) / 8.9L/100 km (combined). The 2024 Mazda3 Sport Suna offers a fresh take on this perennial favourite. Highly recommended.

2024 Mazda3 Sport Suna
Edition: Price as tested – $40,895 including Freight and PDE.
More info at www.mazda.ca

By Veeno Dewan

The Range Rover has long been the gold standard by which luxury SUVS are judged. Its all there; the good looks and classic profile, the off-road prowess- the luxury, and of course the connection to the rich and upper class.. Nothing says you have arrived than a stealthy Range Rover!. For 2024 the Land Rover Range Rover continues to ooze style from every body panel. The luxury interiors meanwhile can be customized and arranged to seat four, five, or seven depending on configuration and wheelbase.
New changes for 2024 include mild exterior updates, a new 13.1-inch curved infotainment display with Land Rover’s latest Pivi Pro interface. A rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.4-inch displays is available, as is a Meridian stereo system with multiple speakers and noise-canceling technology embedded into the headrests. There are new bespoke customization options and a choice of leather or synthetic interior trim.
Range Rover has never compromised it off-road ability and offers four-wheel drive. height-adjustable air suspension, a new four-wheel steering, system and a full complement of off-roading aids and a new cruise control mode for off-roading. The 2024 Range Rover receives engine upgrades as well and offers a choice of six units in Canada. We Tested the P530 Long Wheel base (LWB) Autobiography model with the 4.4L twin-turbo V8, producing 523 horsepower and 533 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a an 8-speed unit with All- Wheel Drive as standard.
Features on our fully loaded 2024 P530 Autobiography Range Rover include a superb looking aniline leather interior a larger touchscreen, massaging seats, 1,600-watt Merdian sound system, headrest-mounted speakers, four-zone climate control, camera mirror, , and rear entertainment system. The pricy SV models offer even more personalization such as a power operated table, and a wine cooler complete with glasses! Rear seat occupants in the Long Wheel base version can have two 11.4-inch high-def screens for the rear riders and executive lounger type seats with leg rests that can be fully extended. Both the regular- and long-wheelbase five-seater models can tow up to 7,716 lbs. For Canada, the 2024 Range Rover Canadian Pricing starts for a standard-wheelbase models at $129,950 for the P400 SE; and up to $267,450 for the uber luxuryP615 SV.
Long-wheelbase models with five-passenger seating start at $193,750 for the P530 Autobiography; and $267,450 for the P615 SV. Long-wheelbase with seven seats begins at $158,550 for the P530 SE; and $194,050 for the P530 Autobiography.
Inside, the 2024 Range Rover competes with the very best. The cabin features a high-quality premium interior with elegant design elements There are custom details, superb comfortable seats with heating and cooling functions plus good ergonomics all round. The seats and trim was finished in a very rich deep leather finish that’s incredibly understated and classy. The centre console hides a large movable storage area, along with a cooled compartment. The rear compartment is fairly roomy and passengers can also enjoy a rear seat entertainment system.
The fist two seat rows are spacious, but full-size adults will find the third row cramped. The Long wheel base model may be pricy, but it offers the total luxury experience, a more refined comfortable ride which features limo – like levels of legroom. The trunk is generous and still offer the iconic split tailgate. The interior detailing, materials , fit, and finish is just superb.
On the road, the wonderful hushed silky ride is a stand out feature thanks to the adaptive air suspension system. There is very little body roll and a stable planted feel. The V8 engine offers plenty of creamy refined power delivery. Steering is well calibrated and delightfully responsive. The ride is good all-round and is only upset by the harshest of bumps due to the optional larger 23-inch wheel and tire combinations. There is also a rear-wheel-steering system to help in tracking and low speed turning. The air suspension can also raise or lower the vehicle, providing 274 mm of ground clearance. Off -road trail performance is also enhanced with Terrain Response, hill descent and other aids. Still, the Range Rover prefers to be driven leisurely in pomp and style and deliver that extremely comfortable and refined ride.
Downsides are few, the Range Rover is already an expensive proposition and becomes even more so when you start ticking option boxes. However, the Range Rover signifies the very best in British luxury, style understatement and elegance. The one to get when you’ve made it!
2024 Land Rover Range Rover priced from: $129,950 – $267,450.
P530 Autobiography model as tested $202,145 including options and delivery.
Mor info at www.landrover.ca