2023 Infiniti QX60: Sensory AWD; Luxury SUV Impresses Highly

July 10, 2023

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Infiniti QX60 is a sleek three-row premium crossover utility vehicle that offers a good combination of luxury and versatility. It’s been one of the highest-selling models for Infiniti since its 2012 debut and now undergoes a redesign for the new model year.
The new 2023 redesign takes it to a new level of luxury with a stellar good look, improved fuel economy and new tech features. Externally, the revised QX60 carries a smart contemporary look with a new grille, bi-xenon headlamps., All trims come with a 3.5L V6 engine providing 295 horses. There’s an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission, and All-Wheel-Drive is standard on all models. There is 12 percent less cabin noise than in the previous
generation.
The interior is also revamped with a theatre-styled layout for better occupant visibility. The dash also has a new 10.8-inch head-up display, along with a new 12.3-inch interactive display. Also fresh: is wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto, second- and third-row roof-mounted vents, and the premium Bose audio system that comes standard in the Sensory and Autograph trims. Also new is updated and expanded functionality to ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link compatibility.
The QX60 comes in four trims — Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and the top trim, Autograph. The Pure starts at $54,995, while the high-tech equipped Autograph as tested starts at $67,995. We tested the Sensory AWD Model which arrives lavishly equipped and priced at $72,490. All in.
The 2023 Infiniti QX60 comes well-equipped. Standard equipment is luxurious and generous with: Intelligent all-wheel drive, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery with heated power-adjustable front seats and intelligent key with push-button start. There is also: heated leather wrapped steering wheel, seven-inch colour display with rear-view monitor, automatic HID headlights, cruise control, high spec audio system, power tailgate and rear privacy glass.
Inside, the QX60 looks suitably luxurious and well designed with sharp leather seats and nice textures, materials, and a high standard of fit and finish. Soft-touch materials abound for driver and passengers, and the overall ambience is very good. The sumptuous, quilted seats are to die for and offer superb comfort. The dash and console feature plenty of technology accessed by a host of buttons and switches. The interior is extremely versatile with full sliding second-row seats that allow easy access to the third row. The second-row splits 60/40, slides, reclines, and can be tilted forward for third-row access even with a child seat in place. The third-row seat is surprisingly roomy, but still only for kids. With the Second and third row seats folded there’s up to 2,166 L of available cargo space compared to 447 L of cargo space when all seats are up. Meanwhile, the 50/50 split folding third row can be quickly and easily folded flat to expand the cargo area. The second row’s captain chairs are only available in the Autograph trim as tested, which also includes a removable centre console.
The third row is typical of a three-row SUV: the QX60 holds 411 litres behind the third row, but it also has an extra 54 litres of underfloor storage. The third row’s seats easily fold down and are power operated on the two top trim levels.
On the road, the QX60s V6 engine offers a robust 295 horsepower, while torque is a healthy 270 lb-ft. The new nine-speed auto transmission offers sublime smooth up and down shifts while a dial on the center-console tunnel offers four driving modes: Standard, Sport, Snow, and Eco. Sport offers more throttle response, while Standard is a good all round driving mode. Suspension tweaks have improved the crossover’s handling somewhat. Body roll is less evident, and the QX60 takes corners better. Still with its light steering and rather soft ride, the QX60 is also much quieter than the previous generation and is still more of a comfortable cruiser, than a sporty handling SUV. If you plan to tow a trailer or boat, the lower two trims have a 3,500-pound capacity, while the top two versions can handle a 6,000-pound towing load.
Nothing much to gripe about, note the improved fuel economy in this all-new QX60 — it now has a combined rating of 10.7 L/100 km, 11.9 city, and 9.3 highway. In closing there is much to like about the QX60. It is luxurious, comfortable, and roomy, and is an excellent safety orientated family hauler. Downsides are few; buyers need to weigh up the premium models and the numerous options are worth the high cost when optioned out. The QX60 is very impressive and nice to drive all day long. A wonderfully executed luxury Crossover. Highly recommended.

2023 Infiniti QX60 AWD Autograph priced from $69,0955 plus options, freight and PDE. Price as tested- $72,490.
More info at www.infiniti.ca

Heat warnings in place in six provinces, Ontario town faces tornado warning

July 10, 2023

Extreme weather alerts remain in place across much of Canada, with federal forecasters warning of heat, rainfall, thunderstorms and possible tornadoes in different parts of the country.

Environment Canada has issued a tornado warning for the northwestern Ontario communities of Savant Lake and Sturgeon Lake, while Fort Severn on Hudson Bay is facing a rainfall warning.

Sioux Lookout, Ont., was also briefly under a tornado warning, but Environment Canada says it’s too soon to tell if such a storm touched down.

The neighbouring province of Quebec is under multiple alerts for both rainfall and severe thunderstorms that could produce lightning, flash floods and nickel-sized hail.

Heat warnings are in place in six provinces and two territories as an ongoing heat wave shows no signs of letting up.

In Atlantic Canada, temperatures are forecasted to reach close to 30 degrees on Sunday in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, while humidex values are expected to hit 37 degrees.

Temperatures are forecasted to soar near or above 30 degrees Celsius into Monday for parts of southern and coastal British Columbia, with the highest temperatures in some areas expected to hit 35 degrees.

In Alberta, most of the province is covered under a heat warning and daytime highs are expected near 30 degrees before moderating on Monday.

Temperatures are forecasted to be similar in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan.

In the North, communities in Yukon, including Whitehorse, Pelly and Watson Lake, are expected to remain above seasonal norms into next week, while in parts of the Northwest Territories, daily highs are expected to remain near 30 degrees into next week.

Environment Canada says very high temperatures could pose an elevated risk of illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion, especially for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those working or exercising outdoors.

Among the provinces and territories, only Newfoundland and Labrador and Nunavut were spared any Environment Canada weather warnings while much of Manitoba faced a severe thunderstorm watch but didn’t reach the threshold for a warning.

Prime Minister Trudeau meets with Latvian leaders, Canadian troops ahead of NATO

July 10, 2023

RIGA: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is making his third visit to Latvia today, where he’s set to meet with the country’s leaders and with Canadian troops.

Around 800 Canadian Armed Forces members are part of the Canada-led NATO battle group in the Baltic country, making it the largest overseas mission.

Defence Minister Anita Anand recently announced that a Leopard 2 tank squadron with 15 tanks and around 130 personnel will be joining the mission starting this fall.

That’s part of NATO’s efforts to increase its deterrence measures and its presence near Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine.

The alliance has doubled the number of battle groups in the region since the war began, and has plans to increase the size and scope of some of them to be combat-ready brigades.

Trudeau is expected to meet with both the Latvian president and prime minister before the larger summit of NATO leaders begins in nearby Lithuania.

Alberta minister calls for back to work legislation to end B.C. port strike

July 5, 2023

Vancouver: Alberta’s transport minister wants the federal government to recall Parliament to consider back-to-work legislation that would end a strike at British Columbia ports.
Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen said he’s frustrated the strike has continued since Saturday, particularly because Ottawa used legislation in 2021 to end a walkout by Port of Montreal dock workers after one day.
“They used Parliament to resolve it. And that same amount of urgency is something that we’re hoping that the federal government has in this case as well,” he said.
Dreeshen said Tuesday that Alberta has asked federal Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan for daily updates on negotiations between the BC Maritime Employers Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada.
“It’s vitally important that the supply chain, this being a main critical component of it, remains open,” he said.
More than 7,000 workers at 30 ports across British Columbia have been on strike since Saturday morning, leading business organizations as well as officials in both Alberta and Saskatchewan to call on Ottawa to step in.
Talks stalled Monday, with the employers’ association issuing a statement saying it didn’t think more bargaining would produce a deal and the union saying the other side had changed its position on a key issue.
The union has previously said contracting out, port automation and the cost of living are key issues in the dispute.
O’Regan said Tuesday that federal mediators continue to support both sides in their negotiations.
“We encourage both parties to immediately return to the bargaining table and remain there until a deal is reached,” he said.
“Collective bargaining is hard work but it’s how the best, most resilient deals are made.”
In a separate statement responding to calls for back-to-work legislation, O’Regan’s office reiterated that it’s “not looking past the bargaining table, because the best deals are made at the table.”
Dreeshen said western ports, particularly the Port of Vancouver, are “incredibly important” to Alberta’s economy. He said 80 per cent of exports that travel through the Port of Vancouver come from the Prairies.
Saskatchewan Minister of Trade and Export Development Jeremy Harrison said Tuesday that shippers in that province have warned the strike is already slowing down the flow of goods, and the current work stoppage will have long-lasting effects on the supply chain.
“It may take weeks or even months to fully recover from these disruptions. Strain on the supply chain leads to additional costs that end up being passed along to consumers, including those in Saskatchewan,” he said.
“We encourage the Government of Canada to do everything within its power to facilitate a resolution in the best interests of all Canadians.”
Dreeshen said Alberta has yet to see shortages of perishable goods on grocery shelves but that could come “very soon.”
Groups representing Canadian businesses also want the federal government to intervene, with one organization calling for legal changes that would discourage future disruptions.
On Tuesday Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters said designating ports and rail lines as essential infrastructure and limiting when and where labour and other disruptions can occur would provide manufacturers the stability they need.
“A strike of this magnitude not only disrupts the Canadian economy but damages our global trading reputation, hurts already fragile supply chains, and puts jobs at risk,” the group said in a statement.
“Given that the federal government understands what is at stake, (Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters) urges them to intervene now to reassure manufacturers that they will not bear the brunt of a labour dispute that is beyond their control,” it said.
The group, which says its members account for about 82 per cent of total manufacturing production and 90 per cent of Canada’s exports, estimates that the movement of $500 million worth of goods is being disrupted every day.
The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade is meanwhile asking Ottawa to “use every tool at its disposal” to ensure a deal is struck to resume activity at the city’s port, including back-to-work legislation, if necessary.

By Ashley Joannou
The Canadian Press

Canadians eligible for GST credit expected to receive ‘grocery rebate’ today

July 5, 2023

Ottawa: Canadians eligible for the GST credit are expected to receive a special payment today to help with the rising cost of groceries.

The payment, which the Liberal government is calling the grocery rebate, was promised in the spring budget to help Canadians cope with food inflation.

The Canada Revenue Agency says approximately 11 million Canadians will receive the additional money alongside the regular GST credit payment.

Couples with two children can expect to receive up to an extra $467, single Canadians without children can expect up to an additional $234 and seniors can receive an extra $225 on average.

The federal government also provided a similar payment last fall in what it said was an effort to blunt the effect of high inflation on low and modest-income families.

Canada’s inflation rate slowed to 3.4 per cent in May, but grocery prices continue to rise rapidly, with prices up nine per cent compared to a year ago.

Smoke from Canada wildfires is increasing health risks in Black and poorer US communities

July 4, 2023

Science_wildfire_1227878156 — Photo: wired.com

Detroit (AP): Smoky air from Canada’s wildfires shrouded broad swaths of the U.S. from Minnesota to New York and Kentucky on Wednesday, prompting warnings to stay inside and exacerbating health risks for people already suffering from industrial pollution.
The impacts are particularly hard on poor and minority communities that are more likely to live near polluting plants and have higher rates of asthma. Detroit, a mostly Black city with a poverty rate of about 30%, had some of the worst air quality in the U.S. on Wednesday, prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to warn that “everyone should stay indoors.’’
“The more breaths you’re taking, you’re inhaling, literally, a fire, camp smoke, into your lungs,’’ said Darren Riley, who was diagnosed with asthma in 2018, a few years after arriving in Detroit.
“Many communities face this way too often,’’ said Riley, who is Black. “And while this wildfire smoke allows, unfortunately, many people to feel this burden, this is a burden that far too long communities have faced day in and day out.’’
The EPA’s AirNow.gov site showed cities including Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis and Cleveland, Ohio, had “very unhealthy air’’ as of Wednesday afternoon. A wider circle of unhealthy air spread into Pittsburgh, St. Louis and Louisville, Kentucky.
Earlier this month, smoke from the wildfires blanketed the U.S. East Coast for days.
Another round of drifting smoke from the wildfires was moving through western Pennsylvania and central New York and headed toward the Mid-Atlantic, said National Weather Service meteorologist Byran Jackson. In Canada, smoke will migrate across Quebec and Ontario over the next few days, Environment and Climate Change Canada meteorologist Steven Flisfeder said.
In the U.S., the smoke is exacerbating air quality issues for poor and Black communities that already are more likely to live near polluting plants, and in rental housing with mold and other triggers.
Detroit’s southwest side is home to a number of sprawling refineries and manufacturing plants. It is one of the poorest parts of the city. According to a 2022 report by the American Lung Association, the city’s and short-term particle pollution ranked among the worst in the nation.

By Mike Householder
and Corey Williams

Search suggests 88 potential graves at residential school in northern Alberta

July 4, 2023

Sucker Creek First Nation Chief Roderick Willier remembers never feeling safe during the decade he spent at a residential school in northern Alberta.
“I always had to stay on high alert when I was there,’’ Willier said, as he recalled his time between the age of seven and 17 at St. Bruno’s Indian Residential School in Joussard, Alta., about 335 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.
“I was always told, ‘Oh, you got to be careful of them (at residential school).’’’ University of Alberta researchers recently found evidence of 88 potential unmarked graves near the former school.
Dr. Kisha Supernant, who led the search, said the project focused on the areas pointed out by residential school survivors and elders of the community.
Supernant’s team surveyed 4,500 square metres of land, using ground-penetrating radar to look for pits or grave shafts.
She said the team found signs of unmarked graves outside of the school cemetery area at two locations _ one of them close to the workshop on the school’s grounds, the other near the priest’s residence. Supernant, who has family roots in Joussard, said the research team recommends further investigation for graves found outside of a cemetery on the grounds of a school. “What is going on here? What are graves doing in these locations that are not inside of a known cemetery area?’’
But all interpretations and findings through the
ground-penetrating system are not necessarily true, said Talisha
Chaput, anthropology professor at the University of Alberta.
“Ground-penetrating system is one way of looking underneath the ground ? it is not an end-all-be-all technology,’’ she said. Chaput said there are alternate methods to confirm whether the graves are actually present.
Some other ways to confirm the potential graves are through testimonies, historical records and school attendance records of students. Excavation or bringing trained dogs to smell human bones buried in the ground could also help confirm the unmarked graves.
However, Chaput said excavation is against most First Nations’ teachings.
“Most nations believe that once people to laid to rest, you do not disturb them again,’’ she said. “Although there are cases where it may be unavoidable.’’
The community in Joussard has yet to decide their next steps to confirm the graves.
More than 1,100 people from the community gathered in Joussard on Saturday for a blanket ceremony to honour those suspected to be in the unmarked graves.
“People were wrapped in the blanket, and they cuddled in that blanket to show compassion, care and love,’’ said Shane Pospisil, executive director of the Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council, which represents a number of First Nations around Lesser Slave Lake in Alberta.
He said the community is feeling a range of emotions _ lots of tears and smiles, and for some, just an ordinary day in the town.
Pospisil said the community is going to expand its search for more unmarked graves over the next two years, including land they weren’t able to access last summer.
Supernant said First Nations communities face challenges with accessing the land. Some previous school areas have been rebuilt into new complexes while others were bought by private landowners.
“This is a real challenge because these are big, big plots of land that the schools were built on. And there are many places that need to be searched,’’ she said.
For Willier, the chief of Sucker Creek First Nation, it is all about moving forward and healing as a community while keeping remembering the history.
“Now, we have to educate our young people because that’s something that we cannot forget.

By Ritika Dubey
The Canadian Press

2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 AWD Ultimate: Swanky!

July 4, 2023

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Volvo XC60 PHEV premium SUV is a rare sight on the road, which is a shame as this Swedish built, premium compact Crossover is particularly good. The 2023 XC60 slots above the smaller XC40 and below the flagship XC90 SUV Volvo lineup. First up is the attractive styling – influenced by the larger XC90 and its wonderful interior design. The XC60 with the T8 plug in hybrid powertrain is now called “Recharge,” in line with all Volvo’s electrified models. Minor changes for 2023 include a mild grille redesign and a boost in EV driving range as well as battery size. The XC60 Recharge trims models start at $64,950 for the entry Core version, the upscale Plus version starts at $75,400 and the fully loaded Ultimate trim line at $82,200.
The XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate model as tested arrives equipped with the plug-in hybrid T8 powertrain. This includes a 2.0L direct turbo charged engine paired with an electric motor and 18.8 kWh Lithium-ion battery. Total output is an impressive 455 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Pure electric driving range in the plug in XC60 is quoted officially at – 58 kms, before the gasoline engine kicks in.
Charging this PHEV using a Level 1 charger is slow. A better option is to use a Level 2 charger if you have one at home for a quicker five- hour or overnight full charge. Aside from the 58 km of pure EV driving, the XC60s fuel consumption in L/100 km is around 8.5L combined.
The XC60s cabin is uniquely Swedish: clean, modern with a neat orderly look. There are super comfortable seats, and plenty of leg and head room. The minimalist dash, sparse switch gear, knobs and controls are all ergonomically perfect. Equipment on our Ultimate trim tester included: 2-Zone Climate Control, Panoramic Sunroof, BLIS – Blind Spot Information System with Cross traffic alert, Keyless Entry with Handsfree Tailgate Opening, 12.3-inch Driver Display. Head up display and much more. Of note is the fully tailored instrument panel and the cool-looking crystal gear knob. The huge panoramic roof means the cabin feels light and airy. Roomy and comfortable heated back seats arrive with Volvo’s unique integrated booster seats.
The XC60’s cargo area has a pass-through for longer objects. Behind the seats there is 598 litres of cargo space and a foot sweep function to open or close the rear tailgate. Additional stand-alone options on our tester included: front seat massaging feature, Premium Bowers, and Wilkinson sound system, four corner air suspension with four-C Active chassis and 22-inch Matt Black Diamond cut Alloy wheels. The closing price with options came to a heady $91,075 plus accessories. Freight and PDI is an extra $2,315
Safety is also high with LED Headlights with Active Bending Lights, Lane Keeping Aid, Park Assist Camera, Collision mitigation Support, Pilot Assist semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control with steering assistance, customizable driver aids and other numerous features.
On the road ,the XC60 is supremely comfortable thanks to its excellent seats and supple suspension. The strong powertrain offers excellent performance in terms of EV acceleration and sustained high speed cruising with the gasoline engine. There are five drive modes available: Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-Road and Constant All-Wheel Drive for driver preference and terrain. Meanwhile the hybrid powertrain offers three drive option modes, Auto which the XC60 determines, Driver selected Hold and Charge which maximises the amount of regeneration.
The XC60 proved to be a competent, composed driver on the highway and has a tight turning radius for easy steering in urban areas. The driving experience is enhanced by the optional air suspension that simply glides over road imperfections without losing composure. A smooth shifting 8- speed transmission transfers from pure electric drive to gasoline undetectably. The active cruise control is a stand-out with its adjustable distance control.
To sum up, not a lot to complain about. The XC60 look smart and elegant, has a cool, comfortable interior with distinct Swedish design elements. It could do with more cabin storage and a less driver distracting info system. Plus, it is a bit expensive for the Ultimate version, but you do gain premium interiors, vault -like build quality and amazing technology. Safety as usual is extremely high with a plethora of driver aids and technology. Highly recommended if you want Swedish premium exclusivity and that cool Scandi Wow factor!
2023 Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate- MRSP $82,200. Price as evaluated with options $91,075 plus accessories. Freight and PDI is an extra $2,315.
More info at www.volvo.ca

FlyOver Canada celebrates 10 years

July 1, 2023

To commemorate this special occasion, 10 percent of total sales on Canada Day will be donated to Mosaic BC, which assists refugees and immigrants with settling in Canada

Vancouver: On Thursday, June 29, immersive flying journey FlyOver Canada turns 10! To celebrate this milestone, FlyOver will donate 10 per cent of total Canada Day sales to local non-profit Mosaic BC, an organization dedicated to facilitating programs that help immigrants and refugees settle and start a new life in Canada.
Since 2013, FlyOver Canada has welcomed more than four million guests from around the world, who have had the opportunity to enjoy 12 unique flight rides. Over the past decade, in addition to showcasing the original and flagship FlyOver Canada flight ride film, the attraction has introduced exclusive FlyOver programming including Legendary Iceland, Wonders of the American West and Windborne: Call of the Canadian Rockies, which debuted last year.
Seasonal favourites at FlyOver include HowlOver Canada and Soar with Santa, while limited run flight rides such as Hawaii from Above and Soar Over Taiwan showcase stunning natural and urban vistas from around the globe.
“FlyOver is an experience that uses the power of unique perspectives, feelings of flight and complete sensory immersion to inspire wonder and spark joy for everyone who walks through our doors,” said Lisa Adams, COO and Executive Producer of FlyOver Attractions. “Ten years is an incredible milestone, and on the eve of Canada’s birthday we are privileged to celebrate with our friends, colleagues and community while giving something back to this vibrant city which has embraced us all these years.”

Tickets can be pre-booked online at www.flyovercanada.com.
For more on Mosaic BC, visit mosaicbc.org

2023 Mazda CX-30 GT Turbo AWD: Sporty – And a Joy to Drive!

June 26, 2023

Review by Veeno Dewan

The2023 CX-30 is a compact CUV offering from Mazda that slots in between the CX-3 and CX-5. Front- engined with as standard All-Wheel Drive. The CX-30 with its five- door format adopts Mazda’s Kodo design language and is a graceful, lithe- looking vehicle. The CX-30 with a host of standard features, and a choice of either normal or Turbo 4 -cylinder engine. For 2023, the Mazda CX-30’s non-turbo Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine with 5 extra horsepower and slightly lower combined fuel economy rating.
Depending on your CX-30 trim, there are three Mazda Skyactiv different engines available to choose. The base CX-30 GX come with a 2.0-liter 155-horse power four-cylinder unit under the hood. The GS or GT version adds a 2.5-liter 186-horsepower engine. Meanwhile the CX-30 GT Turbo arrives with 250 horsepower unit. A six-speed transmission is standard. Models start with the GX: $27,050, GS: $30,350, GT $36,550 and the GT Turbo at $38,950 plus options, destination, and taxes. Note that all CX-30 Models arrive with i- Active AWD as standard issue which is an excellent addition o n Mazda’s part.
Our 2023 GT Turbo AWD version (base priced at $38,550) came with standard equipment featuring: SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine with Dynamic pressure turbo,, SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Drive Selection switch, and paddle shifters. There is also: G-Vectoring Control Plus, 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, push button start, Mazda Connect with 8.8-inch display. As standard is the 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 with 12 speakers, automatic climate controls, advanced keyless entry, and a power liftgate.
Comprehensive safety features on the GT Turbo 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 a contrasting trim that looks very cool. Slivers of brushed aluminum trim pieces add a very upmarket feel. I also liked the use of supple leather type material instead of hard plastics used in the cabin doors, dash, and center armrest. The front seat are well designed with just the right amount of cushioning. Mazda has an 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 an especially useful 572L of space behind the rear seats, this increases to 1,280L 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 sporty exhaust note, willing drivetrain and deft, nippy handling means an entertaining drive all the time. 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, the SKYACTIV engines light weight and advanced engineering coupled with a well- geared transmission means the CX-30 feels willing all the time. Yes, additional power would be nice for more top end torque, but nothing major here in terms of everyday sporty or around town driving.
The CX-30’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. The suspension is taut, offering minimal body roll, while the responsive steering offers agile handling, the hallmark of all Mazda’s. There are paddle shifters and a Sport mode, which does ratchet up the response by holding the gears longer. With the help of cylinder deactivation, 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.
2023 Mazda CX-30 GT Turbo AWD: Price as tested: $43,250 Including options, freight and PDE.

More info @www.mazda.ca

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