By Veeno Dewan

The Nissan Frontier pickup has been a solid performer for Nissan and for 2022 was reintroduced with new engineering upgrades, cosmetics, and interior features. So, no significant changes this time around for 2023.
When it comes to the styling of the Nissan Frontier, there is now a more edgy squared-off look to the design with an attractive defined look. Meanwhile front and rear LED exterior lighting is standard. A choice of body configurations is available with either a King Cab or Crew Cab, five-foot or six-foot bed. The King Cab (extended cabin) can be had with the long bed; and the crew cab is available with either bed depending on the trim. Added to the bed on all trims for 2023 is a smoother operating damped tailgate and the bed height has been increased by 2.6 cm. The motivation behind the Frontier is a 3.8-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox. This engine makes 49 horsepower more than the previous generation.
The Frontier model range starts out with the base King Cab S at $40,998, while the Crew Cab begins in SV trim for $46,098. The off road focused Pro-4X starts at $47,498 for the King Cab, and $49,498 for the Pro-4X Crew Cab version (As tested>) The most expensive model is the PRO-4X Luxury Crew Cab, priced at $51,498. Freight and PDI is $1,995.
New for 2023 is also the SV Crew Cab Long Wheelbase model. Midnight Edition with exterior black out trim, black 17-inch wheels, black grille, emblems, rear badging, and interior accents
All trims include standard adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and emergency front and rear braking. In terms of load and towing ability, the Frontier can tow up to 6,490 lbs when properly equipped, and a trailer-sway control system is standard, which automatically activates the brakes if the trailer begins to waggle. Cargo capacity is up to 1,430 lbs.
The interior is all new and is a significant improvement over the last generation with better driver ergonomics, design, and comfort. Comfortable seats front and rear are present, and the instrument cluster looks nice with a sporty design. An eight-inch centre touchscreen is standard; while a nine-inch screen is available, which is the biggest in this truck segment. A new centre console places the shift lever more conveniently closer to the driver. Interior storage is good, and there is handy extra storage under the rear seats.
Equipment levels are good. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are Type A and Type C ports, and two 12-volt outlets. A 360-degree birds-eye camera view, which has an off-road mode while moving up to 10 km/h is also available. Wireless phone charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and NissanConnect, also arrive on some models. The rear legroom and shoulder room in the four door Crew Cab is adequate while the King Cab models have smallish folding rear jump seats that are more cramped. The Pro 4X adds a substantial number of extra features such as the updated 3.8-liter V-6 engine with 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. Backed by a nine-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system for true off-road anility. Also added is n electronic locking rear differential and a switch to choose between Tow or Haul modes, Bilstein monotube shocks that are optimized for off-road performance as well as a rear-suspension stabilizer bar. The package also adds 17-inch wheels, and all-terrain tires. Also included in the package are Pro-4X embroidered seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, chrome door handles, and Pro-4X carpeted floor mats.
In terms of safety, Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite of driver aids is standard across all trims, and includes: forward collision warning, intelligent cruise control, lane-departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, and rear auto braking.
On the road, the Frontier offers decent enough handling with its rack and pinion steering and some off-road ability with its 2 Wheel and 4-wheel drive modes. The engine has strong low- to midrange power and is smooth in operation. The transmission shifts though it has a slight delay on passing. But nothing of great concern. A four-wheel limited-slip system transfers power to the wheels that need it when traction is compromised. Hill-start and hill descent assists are standard. Even over potholes, and rougher than normal roads, the Frontier remains largely composed. The Frontier offers fuel economy numbers of 13.7L/10.6L/12.3L city/hwy/combined.
To sum up, the previous improvements really elevate this truck. Overall, the Crew Cab is the one to get of you need to seat five. Highly recommended as an excellent truck for work or play.
2023 Nissan Frontier priced from: $40,998 – , $51,498 plus options, freight and PDE. PRO – 4X rice as tested – $57,543.

More info at www.nissan.ca

By Veeno Dewan

Korean luxury performance brand Genesis’ increases its line up of fully electric powered SUVs with the new Genesis electrified GV70. It slots in between the compact GV60 EV and the GV80 EV. The Genesis electrified GV70 uses the EV powertrain from the GV60. The unique styling highlighted by a beautifully designed font and rear lighting design and a faux front grille that hides the charging port. The sleek looks remain with minor changes, exclusive 20-inch wheels and a redesigned rear bumper.
The GV70 Electrified arrives equipped with a 77.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, and an electric motor at the front and rear axles, with a claimed 383 km of fully electric driving range. Combined power is 429 hp and 516 lb-ft torque with a Boost Mode function that allows a heady 483 hp rush in a ten second burst. The GV70 e offers an impressive 0-100 km/h time of around 4 seconds through a single speed transmission.
The GV70e also packs an impressive electrical charging system that allows the vehicle to recharge from a claimed 10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes. No access to a fast charger? Charge time with a Level 2 charger takes about 7 hours. and with a 50 kWh Level 3 charger to 10-80% charge in just over one hour.
The GV70 interior as you can expect from the upstart luxury brand includes an attractive premium design, materials and Mercedes and Audi like attention to detail. Upon entering the cabin, there is a light airy feel and an air of opulence. The choice of materials is upscale, and the fit and finish are about on par with the best of German premium autos;. Lots of buttery soft leather Nappa draping the seats, high quality milled and knurled aluminum trim and high-quality switchgear and fixtures. The GV70 Prestige model as tested is also loaded to the gills with features such as Panoramic Sunroof, 14.5” high-resolution touch-screen navigation, 15-speaker Lexicon audio system, Genesis Connected Services, Head-Up Display, Dual zone Automatic Climate Control, Rear Seat Temperature Controls, and Nappa Leather Seats. There are also heated massaging Front and rear seats. The infotainment system is easy to navigate and the digital gauge cluster has a cool 3D effect. Overall cabin ambience is luxurious with enough room to stretch out in front and rear. Fit and finish is exemplary.
The EV has a rather small cargo space with 813 litres of space behind the rear seats and 1,601L behind the front seats when the rear seats are folded. The vehicle has all the safety you could want with Driver Assist systems such as highway driving assist that can automatically perform lane changes, and auto collision avoidance.
On the road, the EV powertrain is delightfully smooth and powerful whipping the GV70 instantly to high speeds. The electrified GV70 features a Boost button, which literally does “boost” the combined output of the motors to 483 hp for 10 seconds in a stunning whoosh of power- addictive!
There are several regenerative brake settings and a one-pedal driving function. The different drive modes have been well calibrated and there is a smooth seamless power delivery that is well metered out. There are multiple modes of brake regeneration, adjustable via the paddle shifters, and a dedicated mode allowing for one-pedal driving. Road handling and stability is well composed, as Genesis went for a slightly softer suspension for comfort, but there is tad inoffensive body roll on sharp cornering. The GV70e is a rather portly SUV thanks to its heavy batteries and EV hardware under the floor, but hustles along fairly well with no real issues.
Aside from rapid acceleration the GV 70e drives in everyday situation in a refined manner in near silence making for a relaxed luxurious drive. There are few downsides, the EV driving range could be better with 400 km now common in EVs , however its not terrible either.
Highlights include the stunning forward-looking design that is so unique and of course the Genesis buying experience. You do not need to haggle as Genesis has a fixed price structure with few additions and no hidden surprises and fees. Heck you do not even need to go to the dealership! Buyers can order a Genesis online; the car will be delivered to you for your test drive or if you deice you want it. The Genesis Concierge service will drop the car off and includes a pickup and drop off valet service for maintenance, and a courtesy car. You can organise this all from your armchair or desk. Genesis also includes a five-year/100,000 km of complementary scheduled service.
The GV70 Electrified is a stand out and comes highly recommended.

2023 Genesis GV70 Electrified: Base Price: $84,100
More info at www.genesis.com.

Review by Veeno Dewan 

The 2023 Mercedes Benz  EQB 350 4Matic is a premium SUV based on the Mercedes  gasoline  powered GLB crossover and looks remarkably similar. It is a slightly boxy  looking vehicle, conservative in looks with a quality the design, but there is no doubt it is An expensive Mercedes. There are only slight exterior differences to the GLB such as a  glossy black panel in place of the front grille along with blue highlights on the wheels and of course the  lack of exhaust outlets. New Augmented Reality for the navigation system is now a standard feature for the 2023 EQB. It uses the forward-facing camera and the 12.3-inch multimedia screen.

In terms of the  Electric powertrain, the  350 4Matic has is what Mercedes calls a “permanently excited electric motor”    which combine to provide  288 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft of torque from the  two electric motors and a 70.7-kilowatt/hour battery. An  automatic Torque shift system  transfers  power from the drive train to suit the driving conditions. There is a series of drive modes plus an Individual setting fettles with throttle response and regenerative braking. Acceleration is: 0-100KPH in 6.2 seconds (Top speed is  215 KPH) . The EQB  offers  a 365-kilometre electric driving range.

The EQB arrives for Canada as the All-Wheel Drive 4MATIC  350 As for charging, a 100-kilowatt DC fast charger can enable an 80 per cent charge into the battery in 32 minutes, while a Level 2 home charger take 6.25 hours.

Standard  equipment includes power heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control system, a hands-free power tailgate, heated mirrors, and 19-inch wheels are standard, too. Also included is s 64-colour interior ambient lighting, twin 10.25-inch displays e for infotainment and driver information, built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.. Mercedes-Benz’s nicely integrated MBUX infotainment system is also offered along with  a touchscreen, voice command, and steering-wheel controls for its audio, navigation, and other functions.

One impressive feature is the to optimise Electric Intelligence  navigation system which checks the vehicle has enough  battery power to  reach a pre set destination. If needed, the system will  direct the driver to DC fast charger for a top up and also recommend the best eco driving mode to optimize a  low battery.

Base price for the EQB starts $75,000 base price. Our  tester came with the following option: the third seat row with room for two people, Intelligent Drive Package, and the Premium Package for a total of  $85,500 plus delivery PDE and taxes.

The cabin is typical Mercedes – high quality, vault like construction premium materials and  cool touches like the brushed chrome and rose gold accents, round HVAC vents and nice patterned panels on the dash and doors. Leather- look optional real leather seats, ambient lighting and bright metal trim all lend an upscale look to the EQB’s interior. The seats are comfortable with ample support both front and rear. The third-row seats are small as one would expect and cargo room compromised if they are left up.

The list of advanced safety  includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and optional self-parking system. Lane-keeping, evasive steering assist, and adaptive cruise control that can execute automatic lane changes (Needs driver hands on the wheel) are part of the  Intelligent Drive package. The Premium Pack offers a head-up display and surround-view camera  plus satellite radio.

On the road, the EQB cabin is remarkably quiet. Handling is capable and there is minimal body roll in the corners. Acceleration is good and it is a  firm and comfortable ride overall. The EQB 350’s two motors give it an advantage over the two-wheel drive EQB 25 with the ability to accelerate faster and transfer power to  the  4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The rear synchronous motor handles most of the riving while the front asynchronous motor activates when more grip is needed. There are four basic drive modes. Comfort is the default,  Sport mode for more feel, and Eco mode to save range and an Individual mode. The Auto mode   automatically determines the right amount of regen for the drivetrain determined by  terrain, traffic, and other data.

Negatives are few on the EQB, but present, nonetheless. EV driving range is low with only 365KM. Most EVs are now offering over 400km and proper one pedal driving ability would be nice. However, there is lot to loke, the option of the third row is nice if you have kids. The EQB’s size will be just right as well for the urban grind. The quality, fit and finish are high and engineering impressive as usual.

 Base price for the EQB starts $75,000. Price as tested with options.

$85,500 plus delivery PDE and taxes.

More info at www.mercedesbenz.ca

By Veeno Dewan 

The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV  slotting in  below the Jeep Cherokee and the Jeep Renegade. This 2023 version has been updated with a new engine and transmission along with revised engine start-stop system. The Compass also arrives with the upgraded  Jeep Active Drive four-wheel-drive system as standard across the line.

Engine wise, the previous  2.4-litre four-cylinder Tigershark unit is gone and is replaced by a more efficient direct-injection 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo unit. There is an extra 23 more horsepower at 200 hp, and an extra 49 pound-feet of torque at 221 lb-ft for better performance.

After a  2022 refresh, the Compass has no major changes apart from the new engine and transmission and the inclusion of standard All Wheel Drive. In Canada, pricing for the Compass range starts at $35,495. The mid-grade Altitude model costs $41,895, plus extra cost options if needed. There is also the off-road focused Trailhawk version and the  top-of-the-line Limited is at $43,395. Freight and PDI is $2,095 plus taxes. Options include  leather upholstery, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, and driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, available speed limit traffic sign recognition and lots more.

The Jeep Compass interior seats four adults and has an attractive design with good materials throughout. Highlights include a   new optional 10.1-inch high-definition touchscreen in the front dash. There is also the latest generation version of the Uconnect 5 infotainment system which also offers multiple programmable settings for features such as climate, seat position  warmers, mirror position, music preferences and more. Apple CarPlay and Android  is also included. The seats are comfortable, but there is not a surplus of space in the front and rear cabin,. In the rear, tall passengers will lack headroom. Cargo space is good however at around 27.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up or nearly 60 cubic feet when folded down. Safety is also good with as standard: forward collision warning with active braking, active lane control, and blind-spot monitors and optional higher end safety features depending on trim level.

On the road, the 2023 Jeep Compass’ new turbocharged engine produces  200 horsepower and is a significant improvement, probably the best in the compact SUV segment   with strong linear acceleration and healthy torque curve. Meanwhile the  new eight-speed automatic transmission has  more tractable and usefully spaced gear ratios  for better acceleration. The engine runs smooth and there was no overly detectable lag from the turbo unit when accelerating hard.

I have to reiterate this new engine is much needed improvement in this Jeep with its smooth, confident, and unstressed feel. It is the   most powerful powertrain in the category. Overall handling is good with little torque steer and a composed agile feel. The cabin is also noticeably quiet   and on-road driving is a more relaxed affair than previous Compass generations. Brakes are well modulated and overall inspire confidence.

Jeeps are also all about off-roading and the Jeep Active Drive system offers All-Wheel Drive ability with a 20:1 crawl ratio and a  low range 4×4 ability. Its more than enough capable for light and medium trails and snowy tracks, Other more off-road focused Compass versions such as the Jeep Trailhawk  4×4 model in the lineup arrive with the Jeep Selec-Terrain system that offers Snow, Sand and Mud modes and a host of special off-road equipment. If you do need a more capable all terrain Jeep Compass, the Trailhawk version gets an additional Rock mode and specialized 4×4 axles, wheels, tires, and  suspension goodies that make it more of a serious proposition for rock bashers.

Official fuel economy ratings is  improved by seven per cent compared to the old Tigershark engined unit. 9.9L/100 km (city), 7.4 L/100 km (highway) and 8.8 L/100 km (combined).

Plus, features are many, the new more powerful engine offers  much better performance and really elevates the Compass from the previous generation. There is better ride and quieter   cabin. The   Uconnect 5 infotainment is a stand out and the Trailhawk model offers true Off-road ability. Cons include  tighter room in the back, along with reduced headroom in the rear and no hybrid EV option as yet.

To sum up, the Compass is attractive, easy-to-drive, roomy enough for four, and  has decent cargo capacity for its size. The Trailhawk model is the one to get as its more off-road worthy and has a  ton of cool features. The new turbo engine is a most impressive unit and makes the  Compass a more enjoyable exciting driver. Highly recommended for active lifestyle singles, couples  and outdoorsy families looking for fun..

2023 Jeep Compass Turbo priced from:  $38,995, plus options, and taxes,

More info at www.jeep.ca

Auto review  By Veeno Dewan

The Genesis premium luxury line now features not one but two new SUVs in its lineup. The  mid-size GV80  and the compact   GV70,  a two-row, five-seat premium luxury SUV. First up, this new Genesis looks superb with an elegant design cue including  swaggering curves, creases and tightly honed surfaces,  unique front and rear light treatments, metallic accents, cool looking air intakes and vertical exhaust outlets. Just like the GV80 there is a large pentagonal Crest Grille, and funky  G-Matrix mesh detail on the 21-inch alloy wheels  that give it a unique look. It is certainly unmistakable and drew  plenty of looks during our  time with the test model.

Changes for 2023 are minor changes in interior trim on the center console with metallic trim pieces and spectacular  blue -green leather seats and  trim with contrast stitching. The two engine choices are either: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder (300 hp / 311 lb-ft torque), or a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 375 hp  unit with 391 lb-ft torque). Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.

The GV70 is offered in two main variants with several trim’ options. The Elegant range is focused on the four-cylinder models, while the Athletic trim applies to the top-tier four-cylinder grade (2.5T Prestige) and the two 3.5 V6 trims. The  athletic grades receive dark chrome accents, dark chrome grille, extended air intakes and round  exhaust garnishes. 2023 Genesis GV70 Pricing ranges from  $57,500 for the GV70 2.5T Advanced. The Advanced Plus is $61,500; and the 2.5T Prestige is $65,500. The 3.5T Sport is $70,500; while the 3.5T Sport Plus is $77,500. All prices  include  taxes and   fees. There is brilliant no haggle pricing policy from Genesis, you can book a test drive on line, Genesis will bring the car to your door when you buy it, For service, and maintenance Genesis   takes your car e, and leaves a loaner,

. The 3.5T Sport Plus adds adaptive suspension that “looks” ahead and proactively reacts to road imperfections,  and also  adds an electronic limited-slip differential.

The GV70 interior  lives up to the excitement of the exterior. An aircraft “wing”  links the dash centre stack and door pull cut  designs and looks very elegant. High quality material define the cabin:  metallic speaker grille covers, door pulls and centre console inserts, to the backlit, tempered glass gear selector knob, all wink and beguile. Meanwhile the rich , sumptuous, comfortable quilted leather seating will have you in admiration. I just loved the rich leather interior trim on our tester!

The dash incorporates a  wonderful 12.3-inch configurable digital instrument cluster which uses a group of sensors to project a stereoscopic 3D image that can be viewed from any angle.

A spiffy  multimedia controller  supports a variety of features such as:  handwriting recognition, push, rotation, and swipe. The  superbright  14.5-inch infotainment display includes a s LCD screen and a plethora of multimedia functions and apps, plus standard Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Also impressive is the degree of customization available – with a vast range of colors, for  the interior trim, and seats  with contrasting stitching  and piping. Exterior paint colors range from the sublime to the downright exuberant. The GV70 features a roomy interior throughout  with  decent sized accommodation at the rear. Cargo volume is rated at  1,610 litres (56.9 cu ft) accessed through a power liftgate and improved with folding rear seats. The GV70 can also tow up to 3,500 lbs for a trailer with brakes.

I  will have you know, the GV70 was put through its handling development at the famed Nürburgring racetrack in Germany under the beady eye of men in white coats – so the 2023 Genesis GV70  handles more like a sports sedan;  some nice rear wheelspin on hard standing start can be elicited and there is fast strong acceleration. The engine is immensely powerful and provide lot of torque off the line. I love that urgent exhaust note! The steering has good on-center feel but is a little light in my opinion. However, there are multi drive modes which when used offers tightened handling and more steering feel. The variable ratio steering, and electronically controlled suspension provide agile responses and a balanced ride and handling. Performance drivers can also choose from a variety of drive modes according to their personal preference for driving situation. Fuel economy  is rated at: 12.9 / 10.0 / 11.6 L / 100 km city / highway / combined. Not a lot of downsides I can see for now.

To sum up, you just must take a test drive if you are cross shopping with likes of the BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi competition. The GV70 is better looking, better equipped, offers more value for money, and does not give much away. A very impressive luxury sports SUV for now, and highly recommended

2023 – Genesis GV70  2.5T  Sport Plus: Priced from  $77,500.

WEBSITE: www.genesis.com/ca