Small and Smart, continued
 Honda Urban SUV Concept. Click image to enlarge |
Honda Urban SUV Concept Vehicle
Honda will be showing the compact Urban SUV Concept that just made its world debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The Urban SUV Concept, of which only sketches were available at the time of publication, is a global concept model combining a sporty and dynamic SUV profile with a spacious, functional interior. The concept previews an expected crossover spinoff of the popular Fit subcompact.
Crossover Mania
Nissan Resonance Concept
This is a striking piece of kit. Another concept, it’s likely the next Murano, or something like it. Remember how radical the original Murano looked? The Resonance makes a similar impression. It’s a hybrid with 22-inch wheels, all angles and sculpted surfaces. It has a so-called “floating” glass roof and won a Best Concept Vehicle award at the Detroit show, where it first debuted. (by Paul Williams)
  Volkswagen Cross Coupé Concept & Nissan Resonance Concept. Click image to enlarge |
Volkswagen Cross Coupé Concept
Since we’re talking baby crossovers, we had to show you this funky concept from VW. Based on Volkswagen’s new Modular Transverse Matrix (no this is not another sequel to the Matrix trilogy), the Cross Coupé showcases styling elements that will make their way onto new Volkswagen crossovers (think Tiguan). Powered by a combination of TDI Clean Diesel technology and twin electric motors, the Cross Coupé delivers 306 hp at a fuel consumption rate of just 1.8L/100 km.
2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
Although it is only a small player on the North American scene, Mitsubishi is still coming to market with some fresh products for our market. After announcing a city car that will arrive in Canada in the near future, they are launching an all-new 2014 Outlander that could do much to buoy their North American operation in much the same way the Lancer has been carrying the weight for the past few years.
  2013 Toyota RAV4 & 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander. Click image to enlarge |
2013 Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 is hitting the market any day now, and it is one of the most popular models for Toyota and overall in Canada – doesn’t hurt that it’s built just down the road in Woodstock, Ontario. The new RAV4 goes back to exclusively four-cylinder power and five-seat configuration, but that’s the one most people want anyway. The new styling, however, might earn some second looks, or turn away customers looking for a more traditional SUV.
Serious Business
Ford Transit and Transit Connect
  Ford Transit & Transit Connect. Click image to enlarge |
Ford is bringing a pair of practical transports to CIAS 2013, one for commercial consumption and the other as an odd duck in the mover category. First, the all-new 2014 Ford Transit will be shipped over from Europe, joining Ford’s lineup of commercial vehicles (replacing the E-Series vans), promising customers unmatched fuel economy and the segment’s lowest cost of ownership. Transit van provides professional tradesmen and commercial fleet customers leading versatility, innovative new configurations and a unique engine lineup, including a standard 3.7L V6, 3.5L EcoBoost, and an all-new 3.2L Power Stroke Diesel option. While the Ford Transit Connect Wagon has been sprouting like weeds in Toronto’s commercial fleets, Ford is launching an all-new 2014 model that will also offer a new category of seven-passenger hauler that is, according to Ford, fun-to-drive and fuel efficient. While not the most graceful or eye-catching vehicle you will see at the show, the 2014 Transit Connect Wagon is spacious and affordable while accommodating multiple combinations of people and packages, with the versatility of a utility and the payload capability of a full-size pickup.
